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Category: DJF

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for June 26, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on June 26, 2025.

    ‘Do not eat’: what’s in those little desiccant sachets and how do they work?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kamil Zuber, Senior Industry Research Fellow, Future Industries Institute, University of South Australia towfiqu ahamed/Getty Images When you buy a new electronic appliance, shoes, medicines or even some food items, you often find a small paper sachet with the warning: “silica gel, do not eat”. What exactly

    ‘I’m dreading birthing in such a system’: what Indigenous women globally think of birth care and what they’d like to see instead
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nina Sivertsen, Associate Professor, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University Pregnancy and having a baby can be a special time. And families want to feel safe and trust their maternity care. But when we reviewed the evidence, we found many Indigenous families globally face unfair

    Iran accuses US over ‘torpedoed diplomacy’ – passes bill to halt UN nuclear watchdog cooperation
    BEARING WITNESS: By Cole Martin in occupied Bethlehem Kia ora koutou, I’m a Kiwi journo in occupied Bethlehem, here’s a brief summary of today’s events across the Palestinian and Israeli territories from on the ground. At least 79 killed and 391 injured by Israeli forces in Gaza over the last 24 hours, including 33 killed

    Parenthood or podium? It’s time Australian athletes had the support to choose both
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jasmine Titova, PhD Candidate, CQUniversity Australia When tennis legend Serena Williams retired in 2022, she stated: If I were a guy, I wouldn’t be writing this because I’d be out there playing and winning while my wife was doing the physical labour of expanding our family. Many

    Papua New Guinea police blame overrun system for prison breakouts
    By Margot Staunton, RNZ Pacific senior journalist Police in Papua New Guinea say the country’s overrun courts and prisons are behind mass breakouts from police custody. Chief Superintendent Clement Dala made the comment after 13 detainees escaped on Tuesday in Simbu Province, including eight who were facing murder charges. Dala said an auxiliary policeman who

    Stable public housing in the first year of life boosts children’s wellbeing years down the track – new research
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jaimie Monk, Research Fellow, Motu Economic and Public Policy Research Phil Walter/Getty Images New Zealand’s unaffordable housing market means low-income families face big constraints on their accommodation options. This involves often accepting housing that is insecure, cold, damp or in unsuitable neighbourhoods. But little is known about

    From HAL 9000 to M3GAN: what film’s evil robots tell us about contemporary tech fears
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adam Daniel, Associate Lecturer in Communication, Western Sydney University © 2025 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved. Filmgoers have long been captivated by stories about robots. We are fascinated by their utopian promise, their superhuman intelligence and, in the case of the cyborg, their often uncanny resemblance to

    Yes, Victoria’s efforts to wean households off gas have been dialled back. But it’s still real progress
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Trivess Moore, Associate Professor in Property, Construction and Project Management, RMIT University MirageC/Getty On the question of gas, Victoria’s government faces pressure from many directions. The Bass Strait wells supplying Australia’s most gas-dependent state are running dry. Gas prices shot up in 2020 and have stayed high.

    From HAL 9000 to ME3AN: what film’s evil robots tell us about contemporary tech fears
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adam Daniel, Associate Lecturer in Communication, Western Sydney University © 2025 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved. Filmgoers have long been captivated by stories about robots. We are fascinated by their utopian promise, their superhuman intelligence and, in the case of the cyborg, their often uncanny resemblance to

    Remote cave discovery shows ancient voyagers brought rice across 2,300km of Pacific Ocean
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Hsiao-chun Hung, Senior Research Fellow, School of Culture, History & Language, Australian National University Ritidian beach, Guam. Hsiao-chun Hung In a new study published today in Science Advances, my colleagues and I have uncovered the earliest evidence of rice in the Pacific Islands – at an ancient

    500,000 Australians live with mental illness but don’t qualify for the NDIS. A damning new report says they need more support
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sebastian Rosenberg, Associate Professor, Health Research Institute, University of Canberra, and Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney stellalevi/Getty Half a million Australians are living with moderate to severe mental illness, but they don’t qualify for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and cannot access the support

    ‘I’m not going to give up’: how to help more disadvantaged young people go to uni and TAFE
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lucas Walsh, Professor and Director of the Centre for Youth Policy and Education Practice, Monash University Oliver Rossi/ Getty Images On Wednesday, Education Minister Jason Clare hailed an increase in the numbers of Australians starting a university degree. In 2024, there was a 3.7% increase in Australian

    New climate reporting rules start on July 1. Many companies are not ready for the change
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rachel Baird, Senior Lecturer , University of Tasmania PaeGAG/Shutterstock A new financial year starts on July 1. For Australia’s large companies, that means new rules on climate-related disclosures come into force. These requirements are the culmination of years of planning to ensure companies disclose climate-related risks and

    Whose story is being told — and why? 4 questions museum visitors should ask themselves this school holidays
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Olli Hellmann, Associate Professor of Political Science, University of Waikato The winter school holidays will mean families across Aotearoa New Zealand will be looking for indoor activities to entertain children. With millions of visitors each year, museums focused on the country’s history will inevitably play host to

    Philly psychology students map out local landmarks and hidden destinations where they feel happiest
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Eric Zillmer, Professor of Neuropsychology, Drexel University Rittenhouse Square Park in Center City made it onto the Philly Happiness Map. Matthew Lovette/Jumping Rocks/Universal Images Group via Getty Images What makes you happy? Perhaps a good night’s sleep, or a wonderful meal with friends? I am the director

    Macron invites all New Caledonia stakeholders for Paris talks
    By Patrick Decloitre, RNZ Pacific correspondent French Pacific desk French President Emmanuel Macron has sent a formal invitation to “all New Caledonia stakeholders” for talks in Paris on the French Pacific territory’s political and economic future to be held on July 2. The confirmation came on Thursday in the form of a letter sent individually

    Opposition starts on challenge of crafting (yet another) energy policy
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra The opposition is commencing the challenging task of framing a new energy policy, including deciding whether to stick by its commitment to net zero emissions by 2050. Liberal leader Sussan Ley, appearing at the National Press Club, announced a Coalition

    Election flows reveal nearly 90% of Greens preferenced Labor ahead of Coalition
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne Minor party preference flows for the federal election have been released, with Labor winning Greens preferences by 88.2–11.8, while the Coalition won One Nation preferences by 74.5–24.5.

    Australia’s native bees struggled after the Black Summer fires – but a world-first solution brought them buzzing back
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kit Prendergast, Postdoctoral Researcher, Pollination Ecology, University of Southern Queensland Kit Prendergast (@bee.babette_performer) After a devastating bushfire, efforts to help nature recover typically focus on vertebrates and plants. Yet extreme fires can threaten insects, too. After the Black Summer fires of 2019–20, I embarked on world-first research

    Wild swings in the oil price make the Reserve Bank’s job harder
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Hawkins, Head, Canberra School of Government, University of Canberra It looks, at least for now, as though tensions in the Middle East are easing somewhat. It appears much less likely Iran will try to close the Strait of Hormuz, through which flows about a fifth of

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Global: ‘I’m dreading birthing in such a system’: what Indigenous women globally think of birth care and what they’d like to see instead

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Nina Sivertsen, Associate Professor, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University

    Pregnancy and having a baby can be a special time. And families want to feel safe and trust their maternity care.

    But when we reviewed the evidence, we found many Indigenous families globally face unfair treatment during pregnancy and birth. This can include racism, neglecting cultural aspects of their care, or using health care poorly designed to accommodate their needs.

    We found similar themes in research involving more than 1,400 Indigenous women, Elders, fathers, family members and health workers from locations including Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the United States, Greenland and Sápmi (parts of Norway, Sweden, Finland and Russia).

    Many Indigenous families felt disrespected. They said hospital staff often didn’t understand their cultures or give them basic rights during their maternity care, such as being listened to, included in decision-making, or giving informed consent.

    As a result, some families felt hesitant to seek care in mainstream hospitals. As one Indigenous woman told us during recent Australian research submitted for publication:

    I’m dreading birthing in such a system.

    But there are alternatives.

    What can hospitals do?

    There is a clear need to improve birthing services and cultural safety in mainstream hospitals with a focus on respecting the beliefs, practices and traditions of all families, including Indigenous ones.

    For example, many Indigenous families view childbirth as a communal event with extended family support. But hospital policies that limit the number of support people often disregard these important cultural practices.

    Indigenous families also need to get the type of health care they trust and feel comfortable with. Ideally this might involve staff with sound cultural knowledge and who can support families clinically in a culturally safe way.

    Aboriginal patient liaison officers are sometimes available in hospitals or health services. But there are not often enough, they have to service entire facilities, and they provide cultural support not clinical patient care.

    Indigenous families may also want to access a specific type of care. One example is “continuity of care”, where the same midwife or a small team of midwives, supports the family through the whole pregnancy. Ideally, these midwives should be Indigenous or, if not, be trained in supporting Indigenous families with respect and understanding.

    What is ‘birthing on Country’?

    For Indigenous women living in rural and remote areas, being sent away from home to give birth in a city hospital can be really hard.

    Sometimes women and families are evacuated from their home communities and have to stay for weeks or months in temporary accommodation in the city, both before and after birth, or if their baby is born pre-term and needs extra care. This temporary accommodation can be far from the hospital.

    All this takes place in unknown cities and towns, without family support, and sometimes away from their other children cared for by the community back home.

    This makes it harder for mums who need extra support, and can get in the way of starting breastfeeding and bonding with their baby.

    Again, there is an alternative. For many Indigenous families, giving birth is not just about having a baby. It’s also a spiritual and cultural event that strengthens their identity and connection to Country. A “birthing on Country” model of care, which respects Indigenous traditions and knowledge, reinforces that.

    This is midwife-led care designed for and with Indigenous communities. It doesn’t mean you have to birth in rural and remote spaces, but it is a model of care that focuses on culture, and can also be implemented in the city.

    Ideally, families would see the same midwife or team of midwives and use the “birthing on Country” model.

    What else can we do?

    Maternity services can be led by Indigenous people, which many women prefer. But Indigenous staff make up about 3.1% of the Australian health workforce.

    So it is crucial to engage non-Indigenous staff in building relationships and to support Indigenous families in their right to receive culturally safe care.

    This can start with better training for staff, not only to understand and respond to an Indigenous person’s individual needs, but to know when and how to speak up, call out or report racist or disrespectful behaviour.

    This is everyone’s problem

    A health system you can trust should be safe for everyone. If some people feel unsafe or face discrimination when getting care, this not only affects them, it affects everyone.

    For instance, when Indigenous women avoid or delay going to the hospital because of past bad experiences or discrimination, it can lead to health problems that could have been prevented.

    This not only harms the women, it puts more pressure on the public health system, which affects us all.

    By talking about these issues, we hope all Australians begin to care about the safety of all women during pregnancy and birth.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. ‘I’m dreading birthing in such a system’: what Indigenous women globally think of birth care and what they’d like to see instead – https://theconversation.com/im-dreading-birthing-in-such-a-system-what-indigenous-women-globally-think-of-birth-care-and-what-theyd-like-to-see-instead-256877

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: ‘I’m dreading birthing in such a system’: what Indigenous women globally think of birth care and what they’d like to see instead

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Nina Sivertsen, Associate Professor, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University

    Pregnancy and having a baby can be a special time. And families want to feel safe and trust their maternity care.

    But when we reviewed the evidence, we found many Indigenous families globally face unfair treatment during pregnancy and birth. This can include racism, neglecting cultural aspects of their care, or using health care poorly designed to accommodate their needs.

    We found similar themes in research involving more than 1,400 Indigenous women, Elders, fathers, family members and health workers from locations including Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the United States, Greenland and Sápmi (parts of Norway, Sweden, Finland and Russia).

    Many Indigenous families felt disrespected. They said hospital staff often didn’t understand their cultures or give them basic rights during their maternity care, such as being listened to, included in decision-making, or giving informed consent.

    As a result, some families felt hesitant to seek care in mainstream hospitals. As one Indigenous woman told us during recent Australian research submitted for publication:

    I’m dreading birthing in such a system.

    But there are alternatives.

    What can hospitals do?

    There is a clear need to improve birthing services and cultural safety in mainstream hospitals with a focus on respecting the beliefs, practices and traditions of all families, including Indigenous ones.

    For example, many Indigenous families view childbirth as a communal event with extended family support. But hospital policies that limit the number of support people often disregard these important cultural practices.

    Indigenous families also need to get the type of health care they trust and feel comfortable with. Ideally this might involve staff with sound cultural knowledge and who can support families clinically in a culturally safe way.

    Aboriginal patient liaison officers are sometimes available in hospitals or health services. But there are not often enough, they have to service entire facilities, and they provide cultural support not clinical patient care.

    Indigenous families may also want to access a specific type of care. One example is “continuity of care”, where the same midwife or a small team of midwives, supports the family through the whole pregnancy. Ideally, these midwives should be Indigenous or, if not, be trained in supporting Indigenous families with respect and understanding.

    What is ‘birthing on Country’?

    For Indigenous women living in rural and remote areas, being sent away from home to give birth in a city hospital can be really hard.

    Sometimes women and families are evacuated from their home communities and have to stay for weeks or months in temporary accommodation in the city, both before and after birth, or if their baby is born pre-term and needs extra care. This temporary accommodation can be far from the hospital.

    All this takes place in unknown cities and towns, without family support, and sometimes away from their other children cared for by the community back home.

    This makes it harder for mums who need extra support, and can get in the way of starting breastfeeding and bonding with their baby.

    Again, there is an alternative. For many Indigenous families, giving birth is not just about having a baby. It’s also a spiritual and cultural event that strengthens their identity and connection to Country. A “birthing on Country” model of care, which respects Indigenous traditions and knowledge, reinforces that.

    This is midwife-led care designed for and with Indigenous communities. It doesn’t mean you have to birth in rural and remote spaces, but it is a model of care that focuses on culture, and can also be implemented in the city.

    Ideally, families would see the same midwife or team of midwives and use the “birthing on Country” model.

    What else can we do?

    Maternity services can be led by Indigenous people, which many women prefer. But Indigenous staff make up about 3.1% of the Australian health workforce.

    So it is crucial to engage non-Indigenous staff in building relationships and to support Indigenous families in their right to receive culturally safe care.

    This can start with better training for staff, not only to understand and respond to an Indigenous person’s individual needs, but to know when and how to speak up, call out or report racist or disrespectful behaviour.

    This is everyone’s problem

    A health system you can trust should be safe for everyone. If some people feel unsafe or face discrimination when getting care, this not only affects them, it affects everyone.

    For instance, when Indigenous women avoid or delay going to the hospital because of past bad experiences or discrimination, it can lead to health problems that could have been prevented.

    This not only harms the women, it puts more pressure on the public health system, which affects us all.

    By talking about these issues, we hope all Australians begin to care about the safety of all women during pregnancy and birth.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. ‘I’m dreading birthing in such a system’: what Indigenous women globally think of birth care and what they’d like to see instead – https://theconversation.com/im-dreading-birthing-in-such-a-system-what-indigenous-women-globally-think-of-birth-care-and-what-theyd-like-to-see-instead-256877

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI China: Iran ratifies plan to halt cooperation with IAEA

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

    The Iranian parliament on Wednesday approved the general outlines and details of a plan to suspend the country’s cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

    The bill was approved at an open session of the parliament in the Iranian capital Tehran, with 221 votes in favor and one abstention, reported the ICANA news agency affiliated with Iran’s legislative body.

    According to the report, the plan requires the Iranian administration to suspend its cooperation with the IAEA, the United Nations nuclear watchdog.

    The plan stipulates that, given the violation of Iran’s national sovereignty and territorial integrity by Israel and the United States through attacking the country’s peaceful nuclear facilities and jeopardizing its interests, the Iranian government is duty-bound to immediately suspend any kind of cooperation with the IAEA based on the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and the Comprehensive Safeguards Agreement until a number of preconditions are met.

    It lists the conditions as ensuring respect for Iran’s national sovereignty and territorial integrity, the security of the country’s nuclear centers and scientists within the framework of the UN Charter and the complete recognition of Iran’s inherent rights under the NPT, especially the enrichment of uranium on Iranian soil.

    Elaborating on the plan, Seyed Mohammad Nabavian, an Iranian lawmaker, said it was not focused on Iran’s withdrawal from the NPT, as the country was committed to the treaty and had announced that its nuclear activities were all peaceful, ICANA reported.

    On June 13, Israel launched major airstrikes on different areas in Iran, including nuclear and military sites, killing several senior commanders, nuclear scientists and many civilians. Iran responded by launching several waves of missile and drone attacks on Israel, inflicting casualties and heavy damage.

    On Saturday, the U.S. Air Force bombed three Iranian nuclear sites of Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan. In retaliation, Iran on Monday struck the U.S. Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar with missiles.

    Following Iran’s attack, U.S. President Donald Trump announced that a ceasefire between Iran and Israel would begin around 0400 GMT Tuesday. Both sides later confirmed the start of the ceasefire. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese envoy calls for return to political settlement of Iran nuke issue

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

    Fu Cong (C, front), China’s permanent representative to the United Nations, speaks during a Security Council meeting on Iranian nuclear issue at the UN headquarters in New York, on June 24, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    A Chinese envoy on Tuesday called for the return to the track of political settlement of the Iranian nuclear issue.

    China is of the view that there is still hope for a peaceful solution to the Iranian nuclear issue as diplomatic means have not been exhausted, Fu Cong, China’s permanent representative to the United Nations, told the Security Council.

    It is necessary for all parties to draw lessons from the crisis, restart dialogue on an equal footing and promote the return to the track of a political settlement, he said.

    First thing first is to stop the fighting, he said, adding that China has taken note of the current developments on the ground and looks forward to the realization of a genuine ceasefire.

    “The parties concerned should take practical measures to prevent the situation from escalating again. Meanwhile, the international community must make efforts to cool down the situation and promote dialogue and negotiation,” he said.

    To balance the objectives of nuclear non-proliferation and the peaceful use of nuclear energy, he called on Iran to continue to abide by its commitment not to develop nuclear weapons and all other parties to fully respect Iran’s right to the peaceful use of nuclear energy as a state party to the Non-Proliferation Treaty.

    Noting that China supports all efforts to relaunch negotiations, he said the Security Council should play a constructive role in assisting parties in building trust, bridging differences and creating conditions conducive to the resumption of negotiations.

    Relevant countries should abandon the practice of threatening to activate “the snapback mechanism” for sanctions against Iran at every turn as this will only aggravate tensions and confrontations and even further jeopardize diplomatic efforts, he said.

    “A proper solution to the Iranian nuclear issue has a direct bearing on the authority and effectiveness of the international non-proliferation regime and is crucial to peace and stability in the Middle East,” said Fu.

    “At present, the situation in the region is at a critical and crucial juncture. China calls on all parties to act with a higher sense of urgency and responsibility to de-escalate the situation as soon as possible and resume negotiations at the earliest possible date,” he said.

    As a permanent member of the Security Council and a party to the Iran nuclear deal, China will continue to maintain an objective and impartial position, strengthen communication and coordination with all parties, build synergy, and uphold fairness and justice, with a view to playing a constructive role in restoring peace in the Middle East and promoting a political solution to the Iranian nuclear issue, he added. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Zelensky, Trump discuss steps to ceasefire

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

    Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Wednesday that he discussed steps toward a ceasefire in the Russia-Ukraine conflict during a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump.

    “We discussed how to achieve a ceasefire and a real peace. We spoke about how to protect our people,” Zelensky said on social media platform X.

    Ukraine appreciates the attention and the readiness of the United States to help bring peace closer, Zelensky said.

    Zelensky and Trump met on the sidelines of the NATO summit in The Hague, Netherlands. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: NATO countries agree to hike defense spending to 5 pct of GDP by 2035

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

    Member states of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) have agreed to raise their defense spending to 5 percent of gross domestic product (GDP) annually by 2035, according to a declaration issued on Wednesday following the high-level summit in The Hague.

    The five-paragraph statement outlined that the new spending target will be split between two key categories: 3.5 percent for core defense and 1.5 percent for related areas, including critical infrastructure, networks, and defense industrial capabilities.

    The plan will undergo a review in 2029, taking into account the strategic environment and revised capability targets, the document added.

    U.S. President Donald Trump hailed the agreement at a press conference after the summit, asserting that Washington had long carried more than its fair share of the alliance’s defense burden.

    However, he singled out Spain, criticising Madrid as the only country refusing to meet its full commitment.

    Trump said the United States is negotiating a trade deal with Spain and warned that Madrid could be made to “pay twice as much” through trade measures.

    Spain has agreed with NATO to limit its military spending to 2.1 percent of GDP, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced on Sunday, ahead of the NATO summit.

    In his Sunday statement, Sanchez warned that “rushing toward 5 percent” would lead to rising prices and public spending, and reduce investment in key sectors such as education and digital development.

    Calling the 5 percent target “disproportionate and unnecessary” for Spain, Sanchez emphasized that Spain is “one of the five NATO countries with the most troops deployed worldwide.” He also stressed that “asymmetry within NATO is normal and inevitable,” citing the economic diversity among allies. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: US new home sales nosedive in May

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

    Sales of U.S. single family homes in May plunged a whopping 13.7 percent from April, according to data released Wednesday from the U.S. Commerce Department.

    The sales of 623,000 units in May dropped 6.3 percent from the same month of 2024, and far under the 6-month average of 671,000 units sold.

    This occured as interest rates remained high, despite recent criticisms from the White House that the Federal Reserve should cut rates.

    Fed rates remained high on fears that inflation, which surged under the previous administration, could increase. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Powering global innovation, China delivers stability and renews vitality

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

    Guests communicate with each other during the 2025 Summer Davos Forum at the National Convention and Exhibition Center (Tianjin) in north China’s Tianjin Municipality, June 24, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Voices at the ongoing 16th Annual Meeting of the New Champions have hailed China as an emerging beacon of stability and vitality, driving global innovation against a backdrop of economic uncertainty.

    The event, also known as the Summer Davos, is being held in north China’s Tianjin Municipality from June 24 to 26, bringing together over 1,700 leading figures from more than 90 countries and regions to explore how entrepreneurship and emerging technologies can unlock more dynamic and resilient economies.

    China’s resilience amid global uncertainties and its steady, innovation-driven growth have captivated participants, many of whom believe the country is well-positioned to contribute even more to the world.

    Stabilizer in uncertainties 

    In his speech at the opening of the event on Wednesday, Chinese Premier Li Qiang noted that the international economic and trade landscape is undergoing a profound change, and called on the international community to take constructive actions in carrying out international economic and trade cooperation.

    China is willing to do whatever it takes to help tackle the difficulties and challenges facing the global economy, he stressed, adding that China will continue to deepen its integration and connectivity with the world market and strengthen industrial collaboration with various countries.

    “We need to proactively take more practical measures to safeguard free trade and multilateralism and promote the stable development of the world economy,” Li said.

    Despite global economic headwinds, China’s GDP in 2024 grew 5 percent year on year to 134.91 trillion yuan (about 18.82 trillion U.S. dollars), contributing about 30 percent to global economic growth, with the country targeting a growth rate of around 5 percent in 2025.

    “I’m relatively optimistic for the Chinese economy, both on medium-term and long-term … China is pivoting from manufacturing of goods into more services and digital trade. We are also seeing a lot of new technologies being applied,” World Economic Forum President Borge Brende told Xinhua in an exclusive interview.

    In a forum session with Brende, former British Prime Minister Tony Blair described China as “probably the most remarkable story of transformation” in recent decades and urged countries to seek understanding and remain engaged with China, rather than isolate it.

    Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair (L) attends the 2025 Summer Davos Forum in north China’s Tianjin Municipality, June 24, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    At forefront of innovation 

    Innovation has been at the heart of China’s economic growth. Ranking second globally, China’s research and development expenditure increased by 8.3 percent in 2024. The country has made significant breakthroughs in fields such as quantum technology, artificial intelligence and robotics, solidifying its position as a global innovation hub.

    Premier Li highlighted that China is striving to develop itself into a super-sized consumption powerhouse on the solid foundation of a manufacturing powerhouse, and is willing to share its original technologies and innovative scenarios with the world.

    The Chinese government will continue to foster a first-class business environment that is market-oriented, law-based and internationalized, and always keep the doors wide open and warmly welcome businesses from all countries to invest and deepen their roots in China, Li said.

    Speaking at the forum, Michael Gelchie, CEO of Louis Dreyfus Company, said that China’s commitment to enhancing its business environment, promoting innovation-driven development, and its vast, dynamic consumer market are creating opportunities for global trade and reinforcing confidence in international cooperation.

    To open wider, China has rolled out a series of measures to attract foreign investment, including further relaxing market access restrictions, enhancing intellectual property protection, and optimizing the business environment.

    These efforts have certainly paid off. In 2024, 59,080 new foreign-invested enterprises were established in China, up 9.9 percent year on year. The country attracted an annual overseas investment of over 1 trillion yuan for three consecutive years from 2021 to 2023.

    Major multinational corporations such as Louis Dreyfus and Honeywell have expanded their presence in China, citing the country’s robust market potential and favorable business environment as key factors.

    The size, resilience and innovation vitality of the Chinese market have laid a solid foundation for multinational enterprises to set foot in China, and the country’s prowess in scientific and technological innovation, digital economy and low-carbon development has carved out broad space for businesses, said Yu Feng, president of Honeywell China, at the event. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s new consumption patterns drive domestic demand upgrade

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

    Pet owners are splurging on smart litter boxes, blind boxes are flying off shelves overseas after going viral in China, and new tea drinks are becoming the go-to choice for young people.

    With continuously optimized retail efficiency and the rising spending power of young consumers, China’s consumption sector has witnessed a notable shift toward new channels and product categories.

    At the 2025 Haihe International Consumption Forum in north China’s Tianjin Municipality on Tuesday, heated discussions on such topics as ways to ignite new engines for domestic demand came under the spotlight.

    Participants noted that new consumption — characterized by behaviors and methods driven by new technologies — has become an important force in meeting people’s needs. This has unleashed consumption potential and boosted economic development, thereby activating new growth drivers for China’s economy.

    Artificial intelligence is reshaping the consumption landscape on both supply and demand sides. Thierry Delmarcelle, chief strategy and innovation officer of Deloitte Asia Pacific, said at the event that AI can boost consumption and accelerate China’s transition toward becoming a consumption-driven economy.

    For example, the penetration rate of Navigate on Autopilot (NOA) — an important AI application scenario — in passenger vehicles is expected to reach 20 percent by the end of this year.

    In March, China unveiled an action plan to boost consumption, prioritizing it as a key economic task for 2025. The plan proposed an “AI Plus” initiative to promote the integration of AI and spending.

    The automotive industry is undergoing a sweeping intelligent transformation. Changan Automobile has announced it will halt its development of non-intelligent new products. BYD has equipped more than 20 new energy vehicle models with intelligent driving systems. And Li Auto’s intelligent driving systems logged a total mileage of about 3 billion kilometers in 2024.

    This consumption upgrade wave driven by new spending patterns is not only evident in high-value, durable goods like automobiles, but also in subtle changes in everyday consumption scenarios.

    Roger Hu, managing director and partner of Boston Consulting Group, noted during the forum that China’s shopping habits are breaking into clear layers, with consumption scenarios for similar products becoming increasingly diversified.

    “For example, a consumer drinks eight cups of water a day. Among these, there is water for staying alert, water for relaxing, and water for socializing to bridge distances,” Hu said, adding that given China’s massive consumer base, meeting the demand for “each cup of water” represents an opportunity in market segmentation for consumption.

    Wang Pu, co-founder of drink brand Chi Forest, said that significant consumer attention to Chinese brands and growing demand for healthy consumption have motivated companies to upgrade their technologies and products.

    Chi Forest launched a new product in 2023 that uses traditional Chinese medicine ingredients to meet consumer demand for both taste and health benefits. “Sales of this product exceeded 100 million yuan (about 14 million U.S. dollars) within four months of its launch, making it one of our fastest-growing new products,” Wang said.

    New consumption patterns such as those related to the green economy, the culture and tourism economy, and the debut economy have gradually become new engines driving spending, with supportive policies accelerating across regions.

    Wang Yagang, deputy director general of the Tianjin municipal bureau of commerce, said that Tianjin is accelerating its cultivation of landmark debut economy clusters. Since last year, the city has hosted over 400 related events, and it will soon introduce policies to support the debut economy.

    Zhu Keli, founding dean of the China Institute of New Economy, noted that from the consumption perspective, the debut economy effectively transforms consumer curiosity into purchasing power.

    “As new business forms and models like the debut economy continue to grow, the role of new economic drivers will become increasingly prominent, serving as indispensable sources of momentum to promote the high-quality development of China’s economy,” Zhu said. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Dortmund advance with a 1-0 win over Ulsan

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

    Borussia Dortmund secured a place in the last-16 of the FIFA Club World Cup on Wednesday night with a 1-0 win over South Korean side Ulsan HD, a victory which was more comfortable than the final score suggests.

    Daniel Svenssen put the German side ahead in the 36th minute of a first half which was completely dominated by the German side in front of the virtually deserted stands of the TQL Stadium in Cincinnati.

    Borussia had 20 shots in the first half, with eight of those on target, but they were frustrated time after time by Ulsan’s South Korean international goalkeeper Jo Hyeon-Woo.

    The opening goal finally arrived after a mistake in playing the ball out from defense which allowed the impressive Jobe Bellingham to win possession and set up Svenssen to finally score with a left-foot shot.

    It should have been 2-0 soon afterwards but Jo made a stunning save to deny Serhou Guirassy’s header.

    Ulsan looked to press higher up the field in the second half and Borussia goalkeeper Gregor Kobel was called into action for the first time in the game, although he wasn’t forced to make a difficult save.

    Yan Couto had a great chance to double Borussia’s lead in the 82nd minute, but once again Jo produced a flying save to deny his bouncing left-foot shot.

    Carney Chukwuemeka also went close to a second for Borussia in the closing minutes but while his effort was blocked his team never faced serious pressure in the final moment. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Time-tested treasures fuel China’s cultural economy boom

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

    Visitors take photos of the Sun and Immortal Birds gold ornament at the Jinsha Site Museum in Chengdu, southwest China’s Sichuan Province, July 13, 2024. (Xinhua/Kang Jinqian)

    Museum guide Han Xue paused on the elevated walkway and beckoned her tour group forward as a vast archaeological pit came into view below. Down there, rows of ancient ivory neatly aligned in the same direction as if arranged by a forgotten ritual.

    “Here we stand witness to a world preserved for three millennia,” Han said, as gasps rippled through the crowd. Beneath their feet lay the remnants of a mysterious kingdom that once anchored early civilization along China’s upper Yangtze River.

    At the Jinsha Site Museum in Chengdu, capital of southwest China’s Sichuan Province, Han’s storytelling brings to life vanished worlds of ritual ceremonies, terraced rice fields, and exquisitely crafted jade. This was once the heart of the ancient Shu Kingdom, which had its heyday around 3,000 years ago.

    “Summer holidays haven’t started, yet we welcome streams of visitors daily, all drawn by this civilization’s magnetic pull,” Han said, adding that the museum remains packed until well past 6 p.m..

    With eight years of experience as a tour guide, Han has witnessed a noticeable shift. “Young heritage enthusiasts are growing in number. Lots of elementary school kids visit the museum, and they listen with genuine fascination,” she explained.

    The museum has logged over 760,000 visits this year. Beyond the exhibition halls, the museum’s souvenir shops buzz with energy. “People buy souvenirs not just for the novelty,” Han said, “but out of a deep sense of connection and pride in the civilization these artifacts represent.”

    That day, the fridge magnet replica of the museum’s iconic Sun and Immortal Bird Gold Ornament sold out.

    “This piece gleams with such brilliance, and its symbolism struck me. It captures humanity’s eternal pursuit of light,” said Li Xinting, a first-time visitor from Shanxi Province. “We should keep the heritage alive.”

    Jinsha’s popularity is growing in tandem with the Sanxingdui Ruins, its “sister site” in the ancient Shu civilization lore, which has gained global recognition for its mysterious yet magnificent bronzes, such as the Sacred Tree and enigmatic masks. Sanxingdui’s new museum building attracted nearly 10 million visitors last year, with cultural merchandise sales reaching 196 million yuan (about 27 million U.S. dollars), nearly 60 percent of its ticket revenue.

    Industry observers attribute the museum craze to a deliberate effort to harness rich cultural heritage as a way to open up new avenues for consumer spending.

    “True cultural innovation must resonate with contemporary values,” said Ren Ge, director of the Chengdu Museum. “When creations reflect people’s aspirations, they embrace them passionately.”

    Enthusiasm for ancient culture is also boosting the garment and dining industries. At Chengdu’s revitalized industrial complex, “Eastern Suburb Memory,” a restaurant aims to redefine the dining experience.

    Ancient melodies fill the air as diners, many dressed in Hanfu robes, are transported back to the dynastic era. Staff, adorned in period costumes, serve dishes inspired by different historical contexts.

    “Here, food keeps history alive, the restaurant is an immersive theater, and dining becomes a journey through time,” said Yang Zi, founder of the restaurant. His fusion of culture and cuisine creates experiential social hubs that elevate dining through storytelling.

    Searches for such immersive dining experiences surged nearly 275 percent year on year in the first quarter of 2025, according to data from Chinese e-commerce platform Meituan.

    Yang added that reservations, released online two weeks in advance, sell out quickly. During the summer holiday season, demand has surged from locals, culture enthusiasts, and a growing number of international visitors.

    When explaining the reason why consumers are willing to spend over 500 yuan per person for a “cultural” meal, Yang told Xinhua that the concept of ritual, or “li,” courses through China’s culinary DNA.

    “There’s a deep-seated appreciation for ceremony, poetry, music and cultural heritage that resonates with people. We’re opening a door, sparking curiosity, and hoping every guest leaves appreciating the beauty of Chinese culture,” Yang said.

    This desire for cultural engagement is widespread. A survey by the China Tourism Academy found that nearly 80 percent of tourists actively seek out cultural experiences during their travels.

    The fusion of heritage and contemporary economic life also extends to craft revival. At the Qiong Kiln National Archaeological Site Park in Chengdu, visitors are captivated by ceramics inspired by classic Qiong Kiln shapes and glazes, yet reimagined with modern aesthetics.

    The appeal is strong. During a single livestream event in May, innovative pieces such as the begonia-flower-shaped lidded bowl and begonia-flower-shaped wine set generated online sales of 2 million yuan overnight, while also boosting offline sales by 500,000 sets.

    “We are committed to building bridges that deepen public cultural understanding and ignite creative sparks through the profound wisdom and beauty of ancient civilizations. This is our sacred duty to history and human heritage,” Ren said. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gillibrand Demands Update On DOJ’s Implementation Of Law To Combat Gun Trafficking

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand
    Core Of Gillibrand’s Anti-Gun Trafficking Legislation Passed As Part Of The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act
    Provision Got More Than 3,000 Guns Off The Streets In Just Over 2 Years
    Since Trump Has Taken Office, DOJ Has Stopped Providing Congress With Updates On Progress Being Made To Fight Trafficking
    Ahead of Attorney General Pam Bondi’s appearance before the Senate Appropriations Committee, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand is requesting an update on the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) progress in implementing the anti-gun trafficking statute passed as part of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA). In previous years, DOJ provided regular updates on the number of alleged firearm traffickers charged and the number of illicit firearms seized using this statute. However, since President Trump took office, these updates have stopped. Gillibrand is requesting that Attorney General Bondi provide a prompt update on what progress DOJ has made in prosecuting dangerous criminals and getting weapons off our streets. 
    “Three years ago, Congress passed the first significant federal gun safety legislation in nearly 30 years,” said Senator Gillibrand. “In that time, the bill has had tremendous success in getting guns and criminals off our streets. But since President Trump took office, the Justice Department has stopped providing Congress with regular updates on what, if any, progress is being made in fighting gun trafficking. We need full transparency as we continue to implement this legislation, and I am calling on Attorney General Bondi to provide comprehensive data immediately.” 
    Senator Gillibrand’s Hadiya Pendleton and Nyasia Pryear-Yard Gun Trafficking and Crime Prevention Act formed the centerpiece of BSCA’s anti-gun trafficking provision. Gillibrand first introduced the bill in 2009 after meeting with the family of Nyasia Pryear-Yard, who tragically lost her life at 17 years old when she was shot by a perpetrator using an illegally trafficked gun. Gillibrand worked with Nyasia’s mother, Jennifer Pryear, to pass the bill into law, and they attended the bill signing together in 2022. As of September 2024, the statute had been used to charge 423 defendants and secure at least 119 convictions, as well as take more than 3,000 illegal guns off our streets, including 317 AR-15s and AR-style weapons, 478 machine gun conversion devices, and 206 ghost guns.
    The full text of Senator Gillibrand’s letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi is available here or below: 
    Dear Attorney General Bondi,
    As we approach the three-year anniversary of the enactment of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA), I write to request an update on the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) implementation of the anti-gun trafficking statute, 18 U.S.C. 933 (“trafficking in firearms”). In years past, the Department worked diligently with my office to provide timely and comprehensive reports pertaining to the effectiveness of the anti-gun trafficking statute, demonstrating the Department’s success in using the statute to charge hundreds of firearm traffickers and seize thousands of illicit firearms. Since January 20, 2025, requests to the Justice Department for these reports from my office have gone unanswered.
    Firearms trafficking remains a significant driver of gun violence in the United States. The illicit movement of firearms across state lines floods communities with deadly weapons and allows criminals to get their hands on firearms they would not otherwise be able to possess. This is a particularly pernicious issue in states like New York, where state-level efforts to implement gun safety measures are consistently undermined by the steady influx of illegal firearms from neighboring states. Reports from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) have found that nearly 230,000 firearms were trafficked in more than 7,700 cases from 2017-2021 and that unlicensed sellers were the largest source of trafficked firearms.2 Additionally, approximately 80% of firearms connected to a crime and recovered by law enforcement in New York come from out of state.
    In the absence of a dedicated federal law to criminalize interstate firearms trafficking, authorities historically had to rely on a patchwork of weak, easily exploitable statutes to prosecute offenders. This made enforcement extremely difficult and allowed traffickers to operate with little fear of serious consequences. After over a decade of pursuing legislation to close this trafficking loophole and make firearms trafficking a federal crime, I was pleased to see the core of my anti-gun trafficking legislation established in BSCA. Now, under 18 U.S.C. 933, it is illegal to “ship, transport, transfer, cause to be transported, or otherwise dispose of any firearm to another person in or otherwise affecting interstate or foreign commerce, if such person knows or has reasonable cause to believe that the use, carrying, or possession of a firearm by the recipient would constitute a felony.” The law also barred the receipt of such firearms “if the recipient knows or has reasonable cause to believe that such receipt would constitute a felony.” Offenders face up to 15 years in prison and must forfeit any property and proceeds related to the violation.
    Authorities have successfully used the statute to break up firearms trafficking operations large and small. In many cases, multiple defendants have been arrested and indicted after attempting to traffic dozens of firearms – often to undercover agents themselves. Charges have been brought against suspected gang members, leaders of gun trafficking rings, and previously convicted felons. In its last communication with my office in late 2024, the DOJ reported that it had prosecuted 489 defendants so far under 18 U.S.C. 933. During your confirmation hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee, you stated your commitment to “enforcing federal gun laws as appropriate and in accordance with the relevant facts and law.” BSCA was a historic piece of legislation – the first significant federal gun safety legislation in nearly 30 years – but to truly maximize its intended benefits, diligent enforcement, implementation and transparency is required. I look forward to hearing from you and to continuing to work together on these issues.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gillibrand Highlights Impact of Trump’s Big Beautiful Betrayal On New York Children and Families

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand
    Today. U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand held a virtual press conference to highlight the catastrophic impact President Trump’s so-called “Big Beautiful Bill” would have on New York’s children and families. More than 37 million children nationwide rely on Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) to access essential health care, and this legislation would threaten their ability to receive behavioral health treatment, vision and hearing screenings, and other basic care. Furthermore, additional and more onerous work requirements for SNAP included in the bill will apply to parents and households with children; this added red tape could force thousands of kids to go hungry when their parents lose access to benefits. 
    “Republicans’ proposed cuts to SNAP and Medicaid will hurt our kids,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Half of all patients at pediatric hospitals are covered by Medicaid, and thousands of children across the country rely on the Medicaid-funded checkups and mental and behavioral health care they get at school. Harsher work requirements for SNAP will also deprive hungry kids whose parents are struggling to find work of high-quality nutrition. This legislation is a betrayal of our kids and our families, and I am urging my Republican colleagues to reconsider it.” 
    School districts across the country receive Medicaid funding to hire school nurses, psychologists, speech language pathologists, and other health professionals. Medicaid also funds the purchase of assistive technology and specialized equipment for students with disabilities. Stripping Medicaid of funding would force schools to lay off health staff and limit services, depriving many low-income kids of some of their only access to health care. Harsher work requirements for SNAP will force kids to go hungry if their parents cannot find work that covers the cost of child care, provides the minimum number of hours, and does not interfere with a school schedule or caring for a sick child.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SCHUMER, STANDING WITH FLIGHT 3407 FAMILIES DIRECTLY AFTER MEETING WITH TRUMP’S TRANSPORTATION SECRETARY, SLAMS ADMINISTRATION’S FAILURE TO FULLY COMMIT TO PROTECTING AIR SAFETY REGULATIONS &…

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer
    Trump’s FAA Nominee Earlier This Month Repeatedly Refused To Commit To Protecting Aviation Safety Reforms Created By 3407 Families; Schumer Pushed For 3407 Families To Meet With Secretary Duffy – Like Every Transportation Secretary Before Him –To Discuss Importance Of Air Safety Regulations
    Advocates & Pilots Fear Trump Admin Will Roll Back Critical Flight Safety Regulations, Including Requirement That Pilots Log 1,500 Flight Hours In Order To Receive Certificate And Pilot Record Database, Risking Safety
    Schumer: Keeping Our Skies Safe Means Protecting 1,500-Hour Rule
    Standing with Flight 3407 families after their meeting with Transportation Secretary Duffy, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer slammed the Trump administration’s repeated failure to commit to protecting the 1,500-hour rule and other aviation safety regulations created in the aftermath of the 2009 tragedy in Western NY to prevent an accident like it from ever happening again. Amid growing fears about air safety, and following the Trump’s FAA nominee’s callous disregard to respect these rules, Schumer and the Flight 3407 families are demanding that the FAA not roll back these basic air safety standards, which would weaken the training for our pilots risking air travel safety and lives.
    “Working with the families of Flight 3407 to create the 1,500-hour rule and set a new standard for aviation safety has been one of the most inspirational things I’ve done in Congress. They represent the best of America, turning their grief into action to prevent a tragedy like this from occurring ever again. At this critical moment for aviation safety, after we just experienced a tragic crash here in DC, we need well-trained pilots who are prepared to make last second decisions,” said Senator Schumer. “Weakening the 1,500-hour rule and reducing the number of hours pilots train in the air is dangerous and could cost lives. If the Trump administration thinks we’ll let them turn back the clock on aviation safety, they are in for a rude awakening. We fought for years to create these basic safety reforms and we will not rest until we know they will remain untouched.”
    Earlier today, the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation voted 15-13 to advance Bryan Bedford’s nomination to lead the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), with all Senate Democrats opposing. At his nomination hearing earlier this month, Bedford multiple times refused to commit to protecting the 1,500-hour rule and basic aviation safety standards. Schumer said it is concerning that Republicans voted to advance Bedford to lead the very agency tasked with enforcing air safety regulations.
    Amid growing concerns for aviation safety earlier this year, Schumer called for U.S. Transportation Sean Duffy to meet with the families of Flight 3407 and commit to them clearly and unequivocally that he will not roll back the aviation safety law and pilot training standard, including the 1,500 rule, that they fought together to create.
    Schumer has been a long-time, relentless advocate for air safety standards following the tragic crash of Colgan Air Flight 3407. In February 2009, the tragic crash of Flight 3407 near Buffalo, New York claimed 50 lives and alerted the nation to the shortfalls in our aviation safety system, particularly at the regional airline level. In the wake of the tragedy, Schumer worked with the families who lost loved ones in the crash, to pass the Airline Safety and Federal Aviation Administration Extension Act of 2010. This landmark aviation safety legislation addressed many of the factors contributing to the increasing safety gap between regional and mainline carriers by requiring the FAA to develop regulations to improve safety, including enhanced entry-level pilot training and qualification standards, pilot fatigue rules, airline pilot training and safety management programs, and the creation of an electronic Pilot Record Database.
    Notably, the legislation included a mandate that first officers – also known as co-pilots – hold an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate, which requires that the pilot log 1,500 flight hours, and the advocacy of the families has led to many other laws including regulations to combat pilot fatigue, the establishment of the electronic Pilot Records Database, and more.
    Schumer has previously raised concerns about the Trump administration’s commitment to upholding air safety standards. Earlier this month, Schumer expressed worry about the nomination of Bryan Bedford, Trump’s nominee for the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, due to his history of trying to repeal the 1,500-rule and continued refusal to commit to protecting the 1,500-hour rule and other aviation safety reforms created by the Flight 3407 during the confirmation process. With the Senate moving forward with Bedford’s nomination today, Schumer said it is important for the Trump administration to be firm in its commitment to maintaining air safety standards.
    As early as 2014, less than a year after the 1500-hour rulemaking process took effect, Mr. Bedford – serving as Republic Airways CEO – sought to reduce the number of hours required to serve as a pilot-in-command of a commercial airline. Again in 2022, the Bedford-led Republic Airways sought to circumvent flight-safety regulations by requesting an exemption from the 1500-hour rule. The FAA eventually denied this request, following strong advocacy from me and the families against Bedford’s attempt to roll back safety standards. Schumer said that, if confirmed as administrator, Bedford would have the authority to effectively erode the 1,500 rule which the Senator vowed to stand against.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Ernst Says Taxpayer-Funded Union Time’s Clock is Running Out

    US Senate News:

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

    Published: June 25, 2025

    WASHINGTON – In case you missed it, U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) joined the Public Labor Unions Accountability Committee (PLUAC) to discuss her leadership in ending the costly practice of taxpayer-funded union time (TFUT), where federal employees scam taxpayers by negotiating cushy perks for themselves instead of serving the American people.
    During the event, Ernst highlighted the true cost to taxpayers, all the insane examples of bureaucrats abusing TFUT, and her work to force unions to foot the bill and reimburse taxpayers for all expenses.

    Watch Ernst’s full remarks here.
    Ernst explained that, while the most recent data showed TFUT costs at least $160 million annually, we don’t even know the true cost because Biden’s administration concealed the data.
    As part of her mission to expose the true cost of union time on the taxpayers’ dime, she has uncovered bureaucrats wasting tens of thousands of hours and millions of dollars engaging in union activities instead of serving the American people.
    As if the massive price tag was not bad enough, Ernst detailed how she has caught bureaucrats sunning on a Puerto Rican beach, sitting in jail for a DUI, launching a Florida real estate business, and much more all while claiming to be engaging in taxpayer-funded union activities and collecting a government paycheck.
    Ernst discussed how she will put a stop to this nonsense through her Taxpayer-Funded Union Time Transparency Act that would expose just how much federal employee unions are subsidized by tax dollars and her Protecting Taxpayers’ Wallets Act that would force federal employee unions to reimburse taxpayers for all expenses stemming from union activity.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senate Unanimously Passes Sullivan Resolution Commemorating 75th Anniversary of the Korean War

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Dan Sullivan

    06.25.25

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), a member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee (SVAC) and co-chair of the U.S. Senate Korea Caucus, today celebrated the unanimous passage of his Senate resolution commemorating the 75th anniversary of the outbreak of the Korean War and recognizing important lessons from the war, particularly the imperative of maintaining military readiness in defense of the United States and its allies.

    [embedded content]

    “On the 75th anniversary of the Korean War—the ‘Noble War,’ we should all remember the brave Americans who fought, died and sacrificed to keep another country free, the Republic of Korea, one of our strongest allies today,” said Sen. Sullivan. “Commemorating the Korean War is also important for recognizing the lessons we learned that are still relevant today. In 1945, America was the greatest, most lethal military in the history of the world. We had just won World War II. We conquered the Nazis. We conquered Imperial Japan. We were the biggest, most fearsome military in history. Five years later, at the outbreak of the Korean War, because of weak civilian and military leadership, we were not ready. Unfortunately, thousands of young Americans in the summer of 1950 were killed in action, because they weren’t ready to fight. We can never let this happen again.”

    Below is the full text of Senator Sullivan’s resolution.

    Commemorating the 75th anniversary of the outbreak of the Korean War and reaffirming the critical importance of maintaining military readiness in defense of the United States and its allies.

    Whereas June 25, 2025, marks the 75th anniversary of the outbreak of the brutal three-year conflict known as the Korean War, which began when the armed forces of North Korea launched a full-scale invasion of the Republic of Korea;

    Whereas the United States, under resolutions of the United Nations Security Council, responded to that unprovoked aggression and mobilized more than 1,700,000 United States soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines, and led a unified United Nations Command to fight in defense of freedom and security on the Korean Peninsula;

    Whereas more than 103,000 Americans were wounded, and 36,574 Americans made the ultimate sacrifice, giving their lives defending the security of the Republic of Korea, while more than 7,500 remain unaccounted for;

    Whereas the Korean War has long been referred to as the ‘‘Forgotten War,’’ which fails to recognize the significance of this noble chapter in American history, as well as the sacrifice and valor of American service members;

    Whereas the defense of the Republic of Korea by United States and allied forces allowed for the development of the modern Republic of Korea into a robust market economy, a vibrant democracy, a strong ally of the United States, and a bedrock contributor to regional stability and the global community;

    Whereas the Republic of Korea endured immense hardship during the war, suffering 137,899 soldiers killed, 450,742 injured, and more than 30,000 missing or captured, in addition to almost 1,000,000 civilian casualties, yet demonstrated extraordinary resilience and resolve in the face of destruction and invasion;

    Whereas the United States-Republic of Korea alliance, formed with the signing of the Mutual Defense Treaty between the United States and the Republic of Korea on October 1, 1953, is a mutual commitment to the other’s defense, in accordance with constitutional processes, in the event of an armed attack in the Pacific area on either of the parties;

    Whereas the hard-learned lessons of the Korean War underscore the ongoing need for strategic, operational, and tactical readiness across all branches of the military in an increasingly dangerous global environment; and

    Whereas the words engraved on the Korean War Veterans Memorial—‘‘Freedom is not free’’—remain a solemn reminder of the cost of liberty and the importance of military preparedness: Now, therefore, be it

    Resolved, That the Senate—

    (1) commemorates the 75th anniversary of the outbreak of the Korean War and honors the bravery, sacrifice, and service of the United States Armed Forces and allies who fought to defend the people of the Republic of Korea from being conquered by thecommunists of North Korea, the People’s Republic of China, and the Soviet Union;

    (2) recognizes the Republic of Korea as a vital treaty ally and linchpin of peace, security, trade, and democratic values for Northeast Asia and the Indo-Pacific region;

    (3) acknowledges the enduring legacy of the Korean War in shaping United States defense policy and alliances in the Indo-Pacific region;

    (4) reaffirms the commitment of the United States to maintaining a strong, modern, and fully prepared military force capable of deterring aggression and defending national security interests;

    (5) urges continued investment in training, equipment, and support for members of the United States Armed Forces to ensure military readiness across all domains, including land, sea, air, space, and cyber; and

    (6) calls upon all people of the United States to remember the Korean War not as the ‘‘Forgotten War,’’ but as the ‘‘Noble War,’’ an endeavor that preserved freedom for millions and exemplified the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of the United States Armed Forces.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Smucker Reintroduces Legislation to Repeal Costly Biden-Era Regulation

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Lloyd Smucker (PA-16)

    WASHINGTON—Rep. Lloyd Smucker (PA-11) has reintroduced legislation to repeal a costly Biden-era mandate that artificially drives up construction costs on federal projects. The Biden administration’s rule reverts to a definition of “prevailing wage” that has not been used in forty years, causing a dramatic increase in the cost of federally funded construction projects. 

    “This regulation puts taxpayers on the hook for artificially inflated federal construction costs. This misguided regulation is yet another giveaway to Democrat political allies at the expense of the American taxpayers. With a mounting national debt, every effort must be taken to drive down costs, not unilaterally raise them. The free market should determine wages, not a nearly century-old formula. This regulation is wrong for American taxpayers and must be stopped,” said Rep. Smucker.

    Cosponsors of Rep. Smucker’s legislation are Representatives Virginia Foxx (NC-05), Beth Van Duyne (TX-24), G.T. Thompson (PA-15), Richard Hudson (NC-09), John Moolenaar (MI-02), Mary Miller (IL-15), Tracey Mann (KS-01), Keith Self (TX-03), Julia Letlow (LA-05), John Rose (TN-06), Roger Williams (TX-25), Randy Weber (TX-14), Pete Sessions (TX-17), Erin Houchin (IN-09), and Jim Baird (IN-04).

    What are they saying about Rep. Smucker’s legislation? 

    “Associated Builders and Contractors strongly supports Rep. Smucker’s legislation to overturn the Biden administration’s Davis-Bacon final rule, which exacerbates longstanding problems with the Davis-Bacon Act’s unscientific and inefficient wage survey and wage determination process and reverses key reforms introduced during the Reagan administration. By passing Rep. Smucker’s legislation, Congress would alleviate additional costs and burdens forced on taxpayers and contractors by the Biden administration’s onerous rule.” – Kristen Swearingen, vice president of government affairs, Associated Builders and Contractors

    “Americans for Prosperity thanks Congressman Smucker for his continued leadership in ending the harmful Biden era Davis-Bacon rule. His legislation would end misguided payment schemes that needlessly increase the costs of federal infrastructure projects for American families. It would also end infrastructure processes designed specifically to advantage union leaders and labor over non-union workers. Putting more money back in the wallets of American families by having their taxes spent more efficiently is exactly the kind of reforms we need to expand opportunity.” 

    The bill is also supported by the National Precast Concrete Association and the National Society of Professional Surveyors. 

    Background:

    The Department of Labor Hour and Wage Division states: “The Davis-Bacon and Related Acts apply to contractors and subcontractors performing on federally funded or assisted contracts in excess of $2,000 for the construction, alteration, or repair (including painting and decorating) of public buildings or public works.”

    According to the Heritage Foundation, the Davis-Bacon Act “drives up federal construction costs by about 10%, costing taxpayers an estimated $10.9 billion per year.”

    A December 2022 release from the Congressional Budget Office reports that eliminating the requirements under the Davis-Bacon Act would save approximately $24 billion over a ten-year period.

    # # # 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Veasey Slams RFK Jr. for HHS Funding Cuts to Combat Opioid Epidemic After HHS Secretary Benefitted from Federal Programs

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Marc Veasey (33rd District of Texas)

    Headline: Congressman Veasey Slams RFK Jr. for HHS Funding Cuts to Combat Opioid Epidemic After HHS Secretary Benefitted from Federal Programs

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Marc Veasey, a member of the Energy & Commerce Subcommittee on Health, grilled HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. over his proposed FY 2025-2026 budget—which includes devastating cuts to lifesaving staff, hospitals, grants, and programs aimed at combating the opioid crisis.

    When pressed by Rep. Veasey to justify the cuts, Secretary Kennedy stonewalled, dodging basic questions about the harm his budget would cause. Rep. Veasey didn’t hold back—calling out the blatant hypocrisy of a man who once relied on federally funded addiction treatment programs to get clean, only to now slash funding for millions of Americans, including veterans, children, and seniors.

    “This is Republican chaos, cronyism, hypocrisy, and theft on full display,” said Congressman Veasey. “They use the very programs they gut—then leave everyone else to suffer. Marjorie Taylor Greene took $180,000 in PPP loans and then voted to rip it away from other hardworking Americans. JD Vance’s mother got addiction help through programs. RFK Jr. used taxpayer dollars to recover from heroin addiction, and now he wants to defund those same programs for everyone else.”

    “It’s theft. It’s a cold, callous assault on the health and lives of everyday Americans. Don’t believe the spin. The truth is right here: Republicans will use these programs for themselves, then defund them once they’re done. It’s selfish. It’s dangerous. And it’s costing lives.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Veasey On Trump’s Decision to Strike Iran to Boost His Political Standing

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Marc Veasey (33rd District of Texas)

    Headline: Congressman Veasey On Trump’s Decision to Strike Iran to Boost His Political Standing

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Veasey released the following statement regarding Trump’s decision to unilaterally launch strikes against Iran without Congressional authorization:

    “The Constitution is clear: only Congress has the authority to declare war. No president — not even Donald Trump — can unilaterally launch us into a conflict to boost his political standing.

    Let me clear: the Islamic Republic of Iran is a hostile regime that threatens our allies, funds terrorism, and has consistently pursued nuclear capabilities in defiance of international norms. I have no illusions about that. Tehran must never obtain a nuclear weapon — and America must be prepared to act decisively to prevent that outcome.

    But launching a major military strike without Congressional authorization, without coordination with our allies, and without a clear endgame is not leadership — it’s chaos.

    President Trump’s hair trigger foreign policy has made America weaker, not stronger. He abandoned the JCPOA with no viable replacement, gutted our diplomatic and soft power tools like USAID and Radio Farda, and left our allies in the dark. Now, with one strike, he’s escalated tensions across the region, endangered U.S. troops, and risked dragging our nation into a broader conflict — all without a plan. We need a hard line against Iranian theocracy— but it must be smart, lawful, and backed by a coalition of allies.

    I pray for the safety of the US troops stationed abroad as we learn more about the details of this strike.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Serious crash: SH22, Karaka

    Source: New Zealand Police

    One person is in a critical condition and two others are trapped in vehicle following a two car crash on Karaka Road (State Highway 22) around 2.25pm.

    Road closures are in place on SH22 and motorists are advised to expect delays and avoid the area if possible. 

    Karaka Road is now closed between Blackbridge Road and the Glenbrook roundabout, with diversions in place north of the crash at the Karaka Road and Great South Road junction also.

    The Serious Crash Unit has been advised and will attend the scene.

    Police advise motorists to expect delays in the area this afternoon.

    ENDS.

    Nicole Bremner/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Africa – Shelter Afrique Development Bank Extends USD15M Housing Loan to Banque Mauritanienne de l’Investissement to Finance Affordable Housing projects in Mauritania

    Source: MediaFast

    Nouakchott, Mauritania – 25 June, 2025 – Shelter Afrique Development Bank (ShafDB), a leading Pan-African multilateral development bank committed to financing and advancing housing, urban, and related infrastructure development, has signed a USD 15 million loan agreement with Banque Mauritanienne de l’Investissement (BMI) to finance affordable housing in Mauritania.

    This transaction, signed Monday in Nouakchott, Mauritania, is part of the ShafDB’s strategy to promote access to decent housing for low- and middle-income populations in Africa, and will strengthen Mauritania’s housing finance ecosystem, particularly for under-served populations.

    The loan will be used to co-finance the construction of 1,000 homes in the town of ZOUÉRATT and the servicing of 1,000 plots in the commune of TEVRAGH ZEINA for the diaspora and residents.

    Commenting on the agreement, Shelter Afrique Development Bank Managing Director Mr Thierno-Habib Hann noted that ShafDB and the BMI shared a similar vision: to help the diaspora and residents of the town of ZOUÉRATT to build their own homes.

    “This partnership with BMI will make it possible to offer affordable and decent housing to low-income households, filling part of the 50,000 housing deficit in Mauritania in a context where urbanisation is growing at a rate of 4%,” said Mr Hann,” said Mr. Hann.

    BMI Managing Director Mohamed Yahya Sidi welcomed the agreement, saying his institution was honoured to work with Shelter Afrique Development Bank to finance affordable housing projects in Mauritania.  

    “This partnership strengthens our commitment to Mauritania’s socio-economic development, broadens our inclusive housing finance solutions, and confirms our support for the country’s ambitious urban development programme,” said Mr. Sidi.

    Through this partnership, it is estimated that around 5,000 jobs will be created, 12,400 people will benefit from the project and 2,000 households will gain access to housing through self-build or direct purchase.

    About Shelter Afrique Development Bank

    Established in 1981 in Lusaka, Zambia, Shelter Afrique Development Bank (ShafDB) is a Pan-African Multilateral Development Bank (MDB) dedicated to promoting and financing sustainable green housing, urban development and related infrastructure. It operates through a shareholding of 44 African governments and two institutional shareholders: African Development Bank (AfDB) and African Reinsurance Corporation (Africa-Re).

    The institution is involved in financing housing and related infrastructure across the value chain, both on the demand and supply sides, through its four (4) business lines: Financial Institutions Group (FIG), the Project Finance Group (PFG), the Sovereign and Public-Private partnerships (PPP) Group, and the Fund Management Group (FMG).  

    https://www.shelterafrique.org/en/home

    About Banque Mauritanienne de l’Investissement (BMI)

    Banque Mauritanienne de l’Investissement (BMI) is a leading financial institution in Mauritania, providing innovative Islamic banking services tailored to individuals, SMEs, and corporations. The bank is bank committed to supporting economic growth and social development in Mauritania.  https://bmi.mr/fr/

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray Statement on Mike Lee’s Revised Plan to Sell off Public Lands—with Hundreds of Thousands of Acres of BLM Land in WA State At Risk

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    ICYMI: Murray Slams Secretary Burgum’s Plans to Fire National Park Staff, Sell Off Public Lands, & Slash Funding for Tribes

    Senator Murray is an outspoken opponent of Republicans’ partisan reconciliation bill; has repeatedly spoken out in opposition to the Republican plan to sell off public land in the legislation

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, released the following statement on the revised plan released by Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) to sell off public lands in Washington state and other Western states as part of Republicans’ partisan reconciliation bill, which they are pushing through Congress with only Republican votes. The updated text from the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, which Senator Lee chairs, would mandate the sale of between one-quarter and one-half of the 245 million acres currently owned by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Specifically, the provision mandates the sale of BLM land within 5 miles of a “population center,” which is otherwise undefined.

    Senator Lee’s first plan to sell off public lands was struck down by the Senate Parliamentarian earlier this week after Democrats challenged it as a violation of Senate rules. The Parliamentarian is expected to rule on the revised plan in the coming days.

    “Americans should know that the threat to our public lands is not over, as Senate Republicans are still trying to sell off public land as part of their Big Ugly Reconciliation Bill. Republicans’ revised plan would still put up to 450,000 acres of public land in Washington state on the auction block. Communities in Central and Eastern Washington will be most affected by this heist.

    “Now is the time for everyone who enjoys hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, and other outdoor recreation on BLM land to call their Republican members of Congress and demand that they oppose this giveaway of the precious public lands that belong to all of us.”

    “Selling off our public lands to fund tax cuts for billionaires is an unconscionable betrayal of future generations and our cherished outdoor spaces. Public lands belong in public hands.”

    Senator Murray is staunch opponent of Republicans’ reconciliation bill—the One Big Beautiful Bill Act—and has held many recent events raising the alarm on the devastating cuts the legislation will make to Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and the Affordable Care Act (ACA), among other harmful provisions. Senator Murray has also repeatedly spoken out against Republican efforts to sell off public lands as part of the legislation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement from Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Haley Stevens (MI-11)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. ––Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens released the following statement: 

    “For decades, Iran has been the largest state sponsor of terrorism, causing chaos in the Middle East, and putting Americans and our allies in danger. For them to obtain a nuclear weapon would make peace in the Middle East unachievable and make our country and our world an unsafe place. 

    Last night, America’s armed forces carried out an attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities. I am relieved none of our brave American service men and women were hurt.

    Like most Michiganders, I believe the last thing our country needs is to be involved in another foreign war. Any further action must receive approval from Congress. I intend to use my power as a member of Congress to ensure that this president and this administration do not continue to abuse the system of checks and balances we have in this country. I am also demanding that the Trump administration give Congress a briefing and give us intelligence rationale for this attack and ongoing threats in the region.

    We also must focus on protecting American troops and civilians in the region, and work to evacuate Americans where needed. If any Michiganders are currently in Israel or the Middle East and need help getting home, please contact our district office, who has staff standing by ready to assist.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Orchid industry boosts rural revitalization in Da’an, Hainan

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

    Orchid industry boosts rural revitalization in Da’an, Hainan

    Updated: June 26, 2025 09:53 Xinhua
    A worker weeds at an orchid planting base in Da’an Township, Baisha Li Autonomous County, south China’s Hainan Province, June 25, 2025. The orchid industry has become an important booster for rural revitalization of Da’an Township. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on June 25, 2025 shows an orchid planting base in Da’an Township, Baisha Li Autonomous County, south China’s Hainan Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese defense minister meets with guests attending SCO Defense Ministers’ Meeting

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

    Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun on Wednesday held individual meetings in east China’s Qingdao city with his counterparts from Belarus, Iran, Pakistan, Kyrgyzstan and Russia.

    They are attending the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Defense Ministers’ Meeting from Wednesday to Thursday.

    Unilateralism and protectionism are surging, while hegemonic, high-handed, and bullying acts severely undermine the international order, making these practices the biggest sources of chaos and harm, Dong said.

    He called for efforts to enhance coordination within multilateral frameworks such as the United Nations and the SCO, defend international fairness and justice, and uphold global strategic stability.

    The attendees commended China’s rotating SCO presidency for enhancing institutional mechanisms and cross-sector cooperation, while expressing strong readiness to consolidate and develop military cooperation.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese FM meets envoys from EU, member states

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

    Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with diplomatic envoys to China from the European Union (EU) and its member states in Beijing, capital of China, June 25, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with diplomatic envoys to China from the European Union (EU) and its member states on Wednesday in Beijing.

    Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said that as this year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the EU, the two major constructive forces in the world today should enhance mutual trust, handle differences properly, pool their strengths, and elevate the China-EU Comprehensive Strategic Partnership to a new level.

    Wang put forward a three-point proposal for the future development of China-EU relations.

    First, the two sides should uphold mutual respect, particularly by earnestly respecting each other’s core interests and major concerns. Wang noted that achieving complete national reunification is the long-cherished aspiration and historic mission of the Chinese nation, and that China will never allow the Taiwan region to be separated from the motherland.

    China hopes the EU will continue to adhere firmly to the one-China principle and oppose separatist activities for “Taiwan independence” in any form, he stressed.

    Second, the two sides should adhere to the established positioning of their partnership. Wang said that China and the EU are partners, not rivals, and certainly not enemies.

    There are no territorial disputes or geopolitical conflicts between China and the EU, let alone any fundamental clashes of interests, Wang said, noting that China hopes to work with the EU to make cooperation the prevailing trend of China-EU relations.

    Third, the two sides should adhere to multilateralism. China firmly upholds the international system with the United Nations (UN) at its core, the international order underpinned by international law, and the basic norms of international relations based on the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, Wang said, noting that China consistently stands for peace talks and rejects the use of force.

    The three global initiatives, the Belt and Road Initiative, and, particularly, the vision of building a community with a shared future for humanity — all of which were proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping — have contributed China’s wisdom and solutions to the international community.

    “China and the EU should follow the trend of the times, enhance understanding, build trust, achieve mutual success, and light up the world,” Wang added.

    The head of the EU delegation to China and diplomatic envoys of EU member states to China said that China has always been an important partner for the EU.

    The EU is willing to work hand-in-hand with China for the future, develop a constructive, stable EU-China relationship, address global challenges, uphold multilateralism, and promote world peace and security, they said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: 2025 Future Close-Up global youth exchange program gets underway

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

    Young delegates from 14 countries and regions, including China, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Germany, Australia and Brazil, pose for a group photo with organizers of the 2025 Future Close-Up at the youth exchange program’s launch ceremony on June 24. 

    On June 24, the 2025 Future Close-Up global youth exchange and visit program kicked off at the headquarters of Chinese Internet giant Tencent in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province. Themed Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao: Driving High-Quality Development in the Greater Bay Area (GBA), this year’s event brings together young delegates from 14 countries and regions including China, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Germany, Australia and Brazil to explore innovation across the region and China’s approach to regional cooperation, and gain a deeper understanding of the forces driving the country’s high-quality development.

    Future Close-Up was collaboratively launched in 2023 by China International Communications Group (CICG) Center for the Americas (CICG Center for Americas) and Tencent’s Marketing and Public Relations Department.

    From June 23 to 30, the participants will travel to Shenzhen, Dongguan, Hengqin and Guangzhou in Guangdong, as well as Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, for exchange activities.

    Members of this year’s Future Close-Up are influential figures in their fields, including entrepreneurs, scientists, scholars and opinion leaders. This edition of the program will feature a forum on urban innovation and cultural exchange in the GBA, offering international youth a platform to deepen their understanding of the region’s innovation ecosystem and facilitating mutual learning between urban cultures.

    At the launch ceremony, Zhang Jun, General Manager of Tencent’s Marketing and Public Relations Department, said he believes the event can connect people from different regions and cultural backgrounds. “With this vision in mind, we launched the Future Close-Up program, which has brought together over 100 young people from 35 countries and regions over the past three years,” Zhang added.

    “Future Close-Up has always been about opening a window for young people around the world to a more meaningful understanding of China. At the same time, their participation helps us broaden our appreciation for the diversity of global cultures,” said Tao Xing, the Future Close-Up program representative from the CICG Center for Americas, at the ceremony.

    “This year, we have invited international youth to visit the vibrant GBA. We hope you will embrace the journey with open minds, observe with curiosity, reflect on what you encounter and gain a uniquely personal experience of China,” he continued.

    The young delegates also shared their excitement and expectations for their upcoming journey.

    Torry Ko, Senior Strategy Manager for the Asia-Pacific region at Australian tech company MOLOCO, said he was especially interested in learning how leading firms like Tencent are tapping into the strengths of the GBA to fuel their rapid growth. “China’s tech industry is at the forefront globally,” he said.

    “I first came to Shenzhen 16 years ago, when I was studying in China. It’s incredible to see how much the city has changed. I am looking forward to learning more about the innovation driving China’s ongoing reform and development,” Ko added.

    Iuliia Bautdinova, a finance and communications analyst at multinational aerospace corporation Airbus from Russia, said she was drawn to Future Close-Up after hearing strong recommendations from previous participants. “My expectation is to get to know how people live here and what they do when they work with the future,” Bautdinova said. She is eager to take a closer look at the GBA’s renowned electronics and information industry and its ongoing development.

    Hugo Fontanel from France is interested in China’s digital transformation. The omnichannel lead at British multinational pharmaceutical company ViiV Healthcare expects “to learn more about the economic development of China, especially in the tech industry.” He also looks forward to meeting more international youth who share a passion for cross-cultural exchange and adventure.

    After the launch ceremony, the delegates visited Tencent’s digital exhibition hall, where they delved into the company’s innovations in AI, cloud computing and smart city technologies through immersive experiences. They also toured Mindray Bio-Medical Electronics Co. Ltd. to explore its research and development achievements in the medical device field.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Pharmac proposes changes to support 12-month prescriptions

    Source: PHARMAC

    Pharmac has released a proposal today to support 12-month prescriptions for community medicines through changes to the Pharmaceutical Schedule and Special Authority Approvals.

    These changes support the Government’s proposed amendments to the Medicines Regulations 1984, which will allow prescribers to write prescriptions for up to 12 months.

    Pharmac’s Director of Strategy, Policy and Performance Michael Johnson says the proposed changes are designed to make it easier for people to access their medicines while maintaining safe and effective dispensing practices.

    “These changes mean people may not need to arrange for a new prescription as often, while still collecting their medicines at regular intervals,” he says.

    “Pharmac is proposing updates to the Schedule Rules and Special Authority Approvals to align with the new legislation. This includes allowing funded medicines to be prescribed for up to 12 months and adjusting how repeats are dispensed under Special Authority.”

    Currently, if a Special Authority medicine is first dispensed before the expiry date, any remaining repeats on a prescription are funded – even if dispensed after the expiry date. Under the proposal, only dispensings made before the Special Authority expiry date would be funded.

    “This change is necessary to prevent prescription repeats from being dispensed for up to eleven months after the Special Authority funding approval has expired,” says Johnson.

    Pharmac is also proposing to extend approval periods for some Special Authority medicines to ensure the full course of treatment can be dispensed before the approval expires.

    “We want to make sure these changes work well for everyone – people using medicines, prescribers, pharmacists, and software providers,” says Johnson.

    “We’re especially interested in what support or resources might be needed to help with the transition.”

    Consultation is open until 5 pm on 25 July 2025. Feedback can be shared via Pharmac’s feedback form or by emailing consult@pharmac.govt.nz.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Asset Recovery Unit seizes vehicles and cash in Gisborne

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Police have seized four motorbikes, two vehicles, and over $80,000 in cash following a number of search warrants in Gisborne.

    Earlier this week, Gisborne Police with the assistance of Hasting’s Police Asset Recovery Unit, executed three search warrants in the area for property believed to be obtained through illicit funds, connected to the methamphetamine supply chain in the region.

    During the search, Police located around $81,000 in cash, a Holden ClubSport, a Ford Ranger, and multiple Harley Davidson and Honda motorcycles.

    Central Asset Recovery Unit Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Fischer says by targeting illicit benefits obtained by drug offending, denies offenders the success of their offending and removes their ability to expand their offending.

    Gisborne Police will continue to hold people to account for supplying drugs as we see first-hand the harm it causes to our community.

    Detective Sergeant Eric Hunter says this operation will have a direct impact on the local methamphetamine supply chain.

    “Our partnership with the Asset Recovery Unit is proving very beneficial for the community and we will continue to work with them to target organised crime in Gisborne.”

    Police urge anyone who may have information about illicit drugs or unlawful offending to please contact us.

    Information can be reported through 105 online or via phone, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –