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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Museum Summit 2025 successfully concludes (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Organised by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) in partnership with The Guimet – National Museum of Asian Arts in France, the Museum Summit 2025, an international mega event in the museum sector, successfully concluded today (March 29). The Summit was held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre for two consecutive days, receiving a record-high total registration of over 7 000. One-third of them were non-Hong Kong registrants, from 39 countries.
     
    The registrants of the Summit were from a wide range of sectors. Apart from local, the Mainland and overseas museum counterparts, representatives from cultural and art institutions and galleries, there were also practitioners from various industries including museum-related service or product suppliers, educational institutions, production houses, public institutions, as well as finance, technology, tourism, cultural communication, vocational training, etc. The Summit proved to be an expanding platform for dialogues, networking and business opportunities.
     
    With the theme of “Going Beyond”, this year’s Summit brought together over 30 cultural leaders and professionals from renowned museums and institutions across 17 countries to exchange and share their professional experiences, research findings and innovative concepts, as well as delegations comprising over 40 museum practitioners from the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Museum Alliance and ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations).
     
    Addressing the closing ceremony, the Director of Leisure and Cultural Services, Ms Manda Chan said, Hong Kong has been achieving progressive developments. For museums, there are M+ and the Hong Kong Palace Museum in the West Kowloon Cultural District. The LCSD manages 15 museums and two art spaces, with the Hong Kong Museum of Art, Hong Kong Museum of History, Hong Kong Science Museum and Hong Kong Heritage Museum as our flagships. There are also many interesting private museums like our partners this year, the Tsz Shan Monastery Buddhist Art Museum, the Art Museum of the Chinese University of Hong Kong, amongst others. They are all telling the Hong Kong stories with a multiplying breadth and depth.
     
    Ms Chan said, like museums, and the society at large, the Museum Summit endeavoured to reinvent itself and go beyond usual parameters in its fourth edition. This Summit included topics like cultural tourism and social wellness in our dialogues, alongside the need to leverage technological advancements and achieve sustainability as its themes. These expanded roles were reflecting the transformative power of museums to connect people with heritage. She said, museum was no longer something about the past; rather it had become an integral element of the city’s cultural life. It was also an indispensable part of the city’s pride of its people and warm welcome to guests from across the globe.
     
    Other than the discussion sessions, this year’s Summit also arranged various extended programmes for speakers, moderators, delegation and attendees, which received an attendance of around 1 000. Highlights included local cultural visits, such as visiting Tai Fu Tai Mansion in San Tin, Yuen Long, and experiencing and intangible cultural heritage items including Cantonese Opera and Nanyin performances. They also visited local museums, and participated in Museum Night at the Hong Kong Museum of Art, enjoyed live music performances and guided tours of the galleries. They will travel to Shenzhen to visit the Shenzhen Museum, the Shenzhen Museum of Contemporary Art and Urban Planning, the Shenzhen Art Museum (New Venue), and the Sea World Culture and Arts Center.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President Lai meets British Office Taipei Representative Ruth Bradley-Jones

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    Details
    2025-03-21
    President Lai meets Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy
    On the morning of March 21, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy. In remarks, President Lai said that Alaska has long been an important trading partner of Taiwan, and that we have built a solid foundation for cooperation in such fields as energy, fisheries, and tourism. The president expressed hope that Taiwan and Alaska will have more frequent engagement and exchanges so that our relations can continue to grow to create prosperous development for both sides. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I extend my sincerest welcome to our guests. This is Governor Dunleavy’s first visit to Taiwan, and last night, we both attended the Hsieh Nien Fan (謝年飯) banquet hosted by the American Chamber of Commerce in Taiwan. I am delighted to have this opportunity to meet with Governor Dunleavy today at the Presidential Office for further dialogue. Alaska has long been an important trading partner of Taiwan. Our sister-state relationship was established in 1988, and we have built a solid foundation for cooperation in such fields as energy, fisheries, and tourism. Currently, Taiwan is Alaska’s eighth largest export market and ninth largest source of imports. This goes to show just how close our trade and economic ties are and how much potential there is for further growth. As I said in my remarks at last night’s Hsieh Nien Fan banquet, Taiwan is interested in buying Alaskan natural gas. I am sure that Governor Dunleavy’s visit will help us explore even more opportunities for cooperation and continue to deepen Taiwan-United States relations. In the face of such challenges as expanding authoritarianism, climate change, and pandemics, we look forward to strengthening collaboration between Taiwan and the US. By drawing on our strengths, we can jointly build non-red supply chains to bolster our economic resilience and drive the advancement of global technology. I want to thank the US government for reiterating the importance it attaches to peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and its opposition to any attempt to change the status quo by force or coercion. These statements backing Taiwan help in maintaining stability across the Taiwan Strait and in the Indo-Pacific region. Once again, I thank Governor Dunleavy for traveling such a long way to Taiwan. We hope to see more frequent engagement and exchanges between Taiwan and Alaska so that our relations can continue to grow, and we can create prosperous development for both sides. Governor Dunleavy then delivered remarks, saying that their trip to visit friends in Taiwan has been fantastic, thanking President Lai for the invitation to meet, and thanking all the staff. Governor Dunleavy said that as the pandemic was raging, the world went from “before COVID” to “after COVID.” Before COVID, he said, the world relied on a number of systems that were in place for decades after World War II involving supply chains, alliances, sources of energy, trading partners, and friends. He went on to say that as we go beyond COVID, we are reestablishing and reevaluating who our friends are, where we are going to get our energy, and who our trading partners are going to be. The governor said that we are creating a new world for the next 50 years with the new administration in Washington, and this is an opportunity for us to reevaluate and reinvest with our friends for the next 50 years in each other, our futures, and our security. Governor Dunleavy stated that one thing is for certain: that Taiwan is a friend of the US and a friend of Alaska, and has been for many, many decades. He said that it is their hope in this trip and subsequent trips to establish an even tighter bond among their friends in Taiwan, the US, and Alaska. The governor also said that we have much in common in that we are members of the Pacific family, are democracies, and believe in freedom, free speech, and capitalism. He indicated that he has much optimism for the future, and that as we reestablish relationships throughout the world, energy is going to be the key and the basis for our economic development, our national security, and our friendship. Governor Dunleavy said that he believes this trip is going to lay the groundwork for a fantastic future between Taiwan, Alaska, and the US, and that with President Lai’s support as well as the support of the US administration, we can work together to build even better relationships.

    Details
    2025-03-20
    President Lai attends AmCham Taiwan 2025 Hsieh Nien Fan
    On the evening of March 20, President Lai Ching-te attended the annual Hsieh Nien Fan (謝年飯) banquet hosted by the American Chamber of Commerce in Taiwan (AmCham Taiwan). In remarks, President Lai pointed out that the United States is now a major source of investment in Taiwan, adding that last year US investment accounted for 11.5 percent of total foreign investment in Taiwan. The president also pointed out that the US has become Taiwan’s largest investment destination, as Taiwan’s direct and indirect investment in the US accounted for more than 40 percent of its total outbound investment last year. President Lai expressed hope that AmCham will continue to offer support in quickly resolving the issue of double taxation, further enhancing the mutually beneficial Taiwan-US economic and trade partnership. He also emphasized that one essential element for our economic prosperity is maintaining security and stability, both regionally and globally. The president expressed his belief that, so long as we coordinate our efforts, we can achieve more in our respective defense industries and build non-red supply chains, advancing peace, stability, and prosperity. A transcript of President Lai’s remarks follows: I’m delighted to be here tonight. I want to wish everyone and their families a happy, healthy, and prosperous year ahead. For many years now, AmCham has acted as a bridge between Taiwan and the US. It not only advocates for Taiwan to various sectors in the US, but also offers advice for the development of Taiwan’s industries. So tonight, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to all our friends from the American business community. The 2025 Business Climate Survey, published by AmCham this January, demonstrates the confidence foreign businesses have in the Taiwan market. We are happy to see that over 80 percent of survey respondents reported stable or increased revenue last year, and around 80 percent expressed confidence in Taiwan’s economic prospects for the coming year. Moreover, 90 percent of businesses surveyed are planning to maintain or expand their investments in Taiwan. The positive developments in Taiwan made by our American friends here tonight, their outlook for the future, and their confidence in Taiwan, are further proof of Taiwan’s ideal environment for investment. The US is now a major source of investment in Taiwan. Last year, US investment accounted for 11.5 percent of total foreign investment in Taiwan. In 2023, Entegris opened a new manufacturing facility in Kaohsiung and Micron launched a new facility in Taichung. Last year, Google further solidified Taiwan as its biggest R&D hub outside of the US by opening a new office here. AMD, Nvidia, and major cloud computing companies from the US have also been choosing Taiwan to expand their presence. Over the past several years, the US has also become Taiwan’s largest investment destination. Taiwan’s direct and indirect investment in the US accounted for more than 40 percent of our total outbound investment last year. Four years ago, TSMC’s [Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company] investment in facilities in Arizona became the biggest FDI [foreign direct investment] in a greenfield project in US history. And this month, TSMC announced it would expand that investment, breaking another record and highlighting the enduring prosperity shared by Taiwan and the US. In addition to TSMC, Taiwan’s GlobalWafers has built a 12-inch silicon wafer factory in Texas, the biggest in the US. This will be followed by many other industries. These companies are confidently expanding their global presence across the Pacific and eastward into the Americas. The US is moving to reindustrialize its manufacturing industry and consolidate high-tech leadership, as it moves to become a global AI hub. In these efforts, Taiwan is an indispensable partner for the US. While the US is a leader in chip design, Taiwan’s semiconductor manufacturing plays an irreplaceable part in the supply chain. Adapting to the changing geopolitical landscape and the coming era of smart technology, Taiwan will continue to promote its Five Trusted Industry Sectors of semiconductors, AI, military, next-gen communications, and security and surveillance. This will drive the next stage in our economic development. A great time to invest in Taiwan is now. We will continue to better connect relevant government agencies and align with international standards to foster a friendlier investment environment. And I am confident that Taiwanese and American companies can leverage their respective high-tech expertise and invest in each other, boosting growth in industrial innovation and development for both our economies. At the same time, we hope to continue deepening Taiwan-US trade relations. Last year, Taiwan was the seventh largest trading partner of the US, up one spot from the previous year, and bilateral trade grew by 24.2 percent. Taiwan is going to expand procurement from the US of industrial and agricultural products, as well as natural gas. I am very happy to welcome Governor [Mike] Dunleavy of Alaska, who has specially come all the way to Taiwan. Alaska is a source of high-quality natural gas, and its relatively short distance from Taiwan facilitates transportation. So we are very interested in buying Alaskan natural gas because it can meet our needs and ensure our energy security. We hope that AmCham will continue to offer support in quickly resolving the issue of double taxation and removing tax barriers to bilateral investment and trade, further enhancing the mutually beneficial Taiwan-US economic and trade partnership. One essential element for our economic prosperity is maintaining security and stability, both regionally and globally. So we are grateful for the joint leaders’ statement issued by [US] President [Donald] Trump and Japan’s Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru, in which they expressed their solid support for maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. As we face growing authoritarianism, Taiwan will continue to uphold our values of freedom and democracy and will be a responsible actor in regional and global security. Currently, Taiwan’s defense budget stands at about 2.5 percent of GDP. Going forward, the government will prioritize special budget allocations to ensure that our defense budget exceeds 3 percent of GDP. At the same time, we will continue to reform national defense, further enhancing Taiwan’s self-defense capabilities. And we will advance our cooperation with the US and other democracies in upholding regional stability and prosperity. We also welcome continued Taiwan-US cooperation in the defense sector. I believe that, so long as we coordinate our efforts, we can achieve more in our respective defense industries and build non-red supply chains, advancing peace, stability, and prosperity. In closing, I look forward to seeing even greater achievements from Taiwan-US economic and trade cooperation. Thank you. After remarks, President Lai, AmCham Chairperson Dan Silver, American Institute in Taiwan Taipei Office Director Raymond Greene, and Governor Dunleavy raised their glasses in recognition of the strong Taiwan-US friendship.  

    Details
    2025-03-18
    President Lai meets Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs  
    On the afternoon of March 18, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs. In remarks, President Lai said that Taiwan and Arizona enjoy close economic and trade relations, and expressed hope that through our joint efforts, Arizona will become a shining example for Taiwan-United States high-tech collaboration and the creation of non-red supply chains. The president indicated that the next goal for Taiwan and the US is the signing of an agreement for the avoidance of double taxation, which would provide greater incentives for Taiwanese businesses to invest in the US, facilitate the establishment of more comprehensive industry clusters, and generate more job opportunities, representing a win-win outcome for Taiwan-US relations. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I warmly welcome you all to the Presidential Office. Governor Hobbs previously visited Taiwan after taking office in 2023. Her leading a delegation to Taiwan once again demonstrates Arizona’s continued friendship and the importance Arizona attaches to Taiwan. For this, I express my sincerest gratitude, and I welcome you again. In recent years, ties between Taiwan and Arizona have continued to expand and progress. For example, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC)’s investment in Arizona is the largest greenfield investment in US history. This month, TSMC announced that it would increase its investment in the US by US$100 billion. It plans to build more semiconductor fabrication and research and development facilities in greater Phoenix, transforming the area into a US semiconductor hub. Due to our close industrial engagement, we now have more than 30,000 Taiwanese living in Arizona. I would like to thank Governor Hobbs for taking care of Taiwanese businesses and people. I believe that through our joint efforts, Arizona will become a shining example for Taiwan-US high-tech collaboration and the creation of non-red supply chains. Taiwan and Arizona also enjoy close economic and trade relations. Taiwan is Arizona’s eighth largest export market and fifth largest source of imports. Last December, the first agreement under the Taiwan-US Initiative on 21st-Century Trade officially came into effect. I believe this will help further deepen our trade and economic ties. At present, the next goal for Taiwan and the US is the signing of an agreement for the avoidance of double taxation. I hope that we can work together to achieve this goal as soon as possible. This would provide greater incentives for Taiwanese businesses to invest in the US, facilitate the establishment of more comprehensive local industry clusters, and generate more job opportunities, representing a win-win outcome. With Governor Hobbs’s support, we look forward to continuing to advance Taiwan-US relations and promoting further cooperation and exchanges between Taiwan and Arizona across all domains. I understand that during this visit, you have visited many important companies and exchanged opinions with government agencies on how to strengthen bilateral relations. These efforts all go toward building an even more solid foundation for future Taiwan-US cooperation. Once again, I thank you all for supporting Taiwan and welcome you to visit us often in the future. Governor Hobbs then delivered remarks, stating that under President Lai’s leadership, Taiwan continues to thrive as a global hub for technology, innovation, and advanced manufacturing. She said that she is proud to be back in Taiwan alongside her secretary of commerce, Sandra Watson, as part of a diplomatic and economic delegation from Arizona. Since arriving, she said, they’ve hit the ground running, meeting with key partners, businesses, and leaders, noting that the takeaway from their meetings has been incredibly positive, and that they underscore the strong and enduring partnership between Arizona and Taiwan. Adding that our partnership that is built on shared values, mutual cultural appreciation, and commitment to innovation and economic growth, Governor Hobbs indicated that Arizona and Taiwan’s partnership extends back decades, as Taiwanese fighter pilots have been training at Luke Air Force Base in Phoenix since 1996. She said that we have built a strong base of collaboration across many areas, including technology, workforce, and cultural exchange, and that Arizona is even slated to get its own Din Tai Fung (鼎泰豐), which she expressed she is very thrilled about. Governor Hobbs went on to say that Arizona’s relationship with Taiwan is anchored by its ongoing partnership with TSMC and many Taiwan-based companies in semiconductor and other industries, and that TSMC’s US$165 billion investment in Arizona will help power development of the world’s most advanced technology, such as AI, and promises to cement an unbreakable bond between our two economies.  She stated that as governor, she can say with confidence that her administration is fully committed to strengthening this relationship in every way possible, because when Arizona and Taiwan succeed, we all succeed. Lastly, Governor Hobbs once again expressed gratitude to President Lai and the people of Taiwan for their warm hospitality. She then invited President Lai to Arizona to continue their productive conversations and further strengthen ties between our people and our economies, adding that she knows there is no limit to what we can achieve together, and that she is looking forward to what is to come. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by American Institute in Taiwan Taipei Office Director Raymond Greene.

    Details
    2025-03-18
    President Lai meets 2025 Yushan Forum participants
    On the afternoon of March 18, President Lai Ching-te met with participants in the 2025 Yushan Forum. In remarks, President Lai thanked the guests for gathering here in Taiwan and discussing ways to enhance regional cooperation, demonstrating that our democratic allies and friends are standing together as we take on the challenges of a new world and a new era. The president reiterated that Taiwan will continue to engage with the world, and we welcome the world to come closer to Taiwan. He stated that Taiwan will continue to work with international partners to deepen cooperation, exchanges, and partnership in various domains and resist the expansion of authoritarianism. Together, the president emphasized, we can pursue regional peace and security and realize a new vision for a free and open, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I would like to begin by thanking Anders Fogh Rasmussen, former prime minister of Denmark and chairman of the Alliance of Democracies Foundation, for inviting then-President Tsai Ing-wen to address the Copenhagen Democracy Summit via video over five consecutive years since 2020, and for inviting myself to give remarks via video last year. Those opportunities allowed Taiwan to share with the world our motivation for, and our work toward, safeguarding freedom and democracy. I would also like to thank Mr. Janez Janša, former prime minister of the Republic of Slovenia, who has visited Taiwan many times already, for actively elevating the cordial ties between Taiwan and Slovenia during his term as prime minister, helping expand friendship for Taiwan throughout Europe. Today’s guests have traveled a long way to show their strong backing for Taiwan. For this, I express my deepest gratitude. Yesterday was my first time attending the Yushan Forum as president. I saw political leaders and representatives gather here in Taiwan and discuss ways to enhance regional cooperation. The event demonstrated that our democratic allies and friends are standing together as we take on the challenges of a new world and a new era. It was truly moving. As I stated at the opening ceremony, Taiwan will continue to engage with the world, and we welcome the world to come closer to Taiwan. Our government will help guide Taiwanese small- and medium-sized enterprises as they expand into the international market and extend Taiwan’s economic power. I hope that during this visit, our guests will be able to explore more opportunities for cooperation in such fields as AI, smart healthcare, and advanced technologies, and join hands in contributing to the prosperity and development of our democratic allies and friends. Taiwan will continue to work with international partners, building upon the shared values of freedom and democracy, to deepen cooperation, exchanges, and partnership in various domains and resist the expansion of authoritarianism. Together, we can pursue regional peace and security and realize a new vision for a free and open, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific. And I hope, with the assistance of our guests here today, that we can further strengthen the ties between Taiwan and Europe so that we can all take up the work of maintaining global peace and stability. Once again, I welcome our guests to Taiwan. I look forward to hearing your thoughts in a few moments. I also hope you will visit Taiwan often in the future and continue to experience our vibrant democratic society and culture. Chairman Rasmussen then delivered remarks, saying that it is a great pleasure to be back here in Taipei after meeting with President Lai in 2023. He then thanked President Lai for the Taiwanese hospitality on behalf of the Yushan Forum international visitors and participants, who represent four continents and very different political parties but who are united by one thing – the commitment to democracy. Chairman Rasmussen mentioned that over the past few days, they have met with members of the government, legislature, and civil society in Taiwan. He said that he is more convinced than ever that in a very uncertain world, Taiwan continues to stand as a beacon of democracy, from which people in Europe and in the rest of the world have a lot to learn. Over the past eight years, he has been proud to step up his engagement with Taiwan, he said, as he has always subscribed to the view that freedom must advance everywhere, or else it is in decline everywhere. Chairman Rasmussen noted that they have many interests in making sure Taiwan remains free and that we must always stand up for freedom when it is under assault by a dictator. This is why Ukraine’s fight is also everyone’s fight, he explained. He then praised Taiwan for all of the support it has given to Ukraine since Russia’s invasion and honored the two Taiwanese volunteer soldiers who gave their lives for freedom in Ukraine. Chairman Rasmussen remarked that Taiwan is a strong feature of the Copenhagen Democracy Summit that he convenes each year. His foundation, the Alliance of Democracies, has even been sanctioned by the Chinese government due to its support of Taiwan, he said, which is something he takes as a badge of honor. He added that this year’s Copenhagen Democracy Summit in May will be no different, as they plan to focus on the new world order, urgent measures to strengthen Europe’s military, and the situation in Ukraine. But as the United States pulls back from the transatlantic alliance and Europe focuses more on its own defense, he said, Europe should not retreat from the world. He added that to ensure European security, we need more Europe in the Indo-Pacific, and that is why he has been making the argument for more political and economic cooperation with Taiwan. Chairman Rasmussen praised President Lai’s recent decision to increase Taiwan’s national defense budget to more than 3 percent of GDP, adding that it is important that each nation does what it can for its own defense. The chairman once again thanked President Lai for meeting with them today and for the opportunity to visit Taiwan, a beacon of democracy and liberty in Asia. Also in attendance at the meeting were Chairman of the Czech Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Security Pavel Fischer; Member of the National Security Advisory Board to India’s National Security Council Anshuman Tripathi; former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Poland Anna Fotyga; former Minister of Health of Canada Tony Clement; and former Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Lithuania and current Secretary General of the Polish-based Community of Democracies Mantas Adomėnas.

    Details
    2025-03-18
    President Lai meets delegation led by Minister of Foreign Affairs Denzil Douglas of Saint Christopher and Nevis
    On the afternoon of March 18, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Minister of Foreign Affairs Denzil Douglas of the Federation of Saint Christopher and Nevis. In remarks, President Lai thanked St. Kitts and Nevis for speaking up for Taiwan at major international venues and supporting Taiwan’s international participation. The president expressed hope that our two countries continue to achieve remarkable results through cooperation in such fields as education and training, agricultural development, women’s empowerment, and environmental sustainability, and create even greater well-being for our peoples. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I welcome Minister Douglas and our esteemed guests to Taiwan. Last June, Minister Douglas accompanied Prime Minister Terrance Drew and his wife on their trip to Taiwan. I am delighted to be able to meet and exchange views with Minister Douglas again less than one year later. Your presence fully demonstrates the profound bond between Taiwan and St. Kitts and Nevis. I look forward to the further deepening of our partnership through our exchanges during this visit. Although our two nations are separated by a great distance, we share such universal values as democracy, freedom, and respect for human rights. We also continue to achieve remarkable results through cooperation in such fields as education and training, agricultural development, women’s empowerment, and environmental sustainability. Given that Prime Minister Drew, Minister Douglas, and I all share medical backgrounds, we deeply understand the importance of people’s health. I thus look forward to St. Kitts and Nevis’s climate-smart JNF General Hospital commencing operations as soon as possible thanks to our cooperation. The provision of even higher-quality public health and medical services will yield benefits for many more people. I also believe that by having Taiwan share its experiences in renewable energy and energy-saving technologies, our two countries will jointly drive green industrial transformation and stimulate sustainable development together. I would like to take this opportunity to thank St. Kitts and Nevis for actively speaking up for Taiwan and supporting Taiwan’s participation at such major international venues and organizations as the United Nations General Assembly, the World Health Organization, and the International Civil Aviation Organization. In the future, Taiwan will continue to make critical contributions to the international community. With the support of Minister Douglas and our guests, I look forward to our two countries backing each other on the global stage and continuing to build an even stronger foundation for bilateral cooperation. Let us work together to address the various challenges we face and create even greater well-being for our peoples. Minister Douglas then delivered remarks, first conveying greetings from Prime Minister Drew to President Lai, the government, and the people of Taiwan. He then stated that over the last 41 years since the dawn of their nationhood, the Republic of China Taiwan has steadfastly walked beside St. Kitts and Nevis as a strong and immovable partner. As we reflect on four decades of our journey together, he said, we recognize the unswerving and unwavering spirit that has guided both our nations through trials and challenges. The minister then acknowledged the generous support of Taiwan’s government that has helped St. Kitts and Nevis in its own economic and social development. He went on to say that Taiwan’s partnership with St. Kitts and Nevis has been instrumental in helping them achieve the goals of their sustainable island state agenda. Whether in enhancing food security through the diversification of their agricultural sector, fostering clean energy solutions through the solar PV farm, or advancing healthcare through assistance in building their smart hospital, he said, Taiwan has been a steadfast partner in shaping a much more resilient and sustainable future for the people of their federation. In the spirit of reciprocity and solidarity, Minister Douglas said, St. Kitts and Nevis continues to leverage opportunities on the global stage to request incessantly that Taiwan be given its rightful place in international organizations, where it can make a meaningful contribution to resolving the world’s most critical issues. Minister Douglas indicated that the global challenges we face today demand collective action, and that Taiwan has the innovation, the technology, the knowledge, and the expertise to make a tremendous positive impact on some of the world’s most urgent issues. He said that St. Kitts and Nevis will never grow weary in their own support, but shall continue to sound the clarion call of “let Taiwan in,” as well as advocate for peace to be maintained in the Taiwan Strait. To close, Minister Douglas expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality bestowed upon him and his delegation by Taiwan’s government, remarking that the engagements they had thus far were pregnant with promise, and that they are confident in witnessing a fruitful outcome as we work together to build a prosperous and sustainable future for our peoples. The delegation also included Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Kaye Bass, Permanent Secretary of Economic Development and Investment Adina Richards, and Director in the Ministry of International Trade Sean Lawrence. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by St. Kitts and Nevis Ambassador Donya L. Francis.

    Details
    2025-03-13
    President Lai holds press conference following high-level national security meeting
    On the afternoon of March 13, President Lai Ching-te convened a high-level national security meeting, following which he held a press conference. In remarks, President Lai introduced 17 major strategies to respond to five major national security and united front threats Taiwan now faces: China’s threat to national sovereignty, its threats from infiltration and espionage activities targeting Taiwan’s military, its threats aimed at obscuring the national identity of the people of Taiwan, its threats from united front infiltration into Taiwanese society through cross-strait exchanges, and its threats from using “integrated development” to attract Taiwanese businesspeople and youth. President Lai emphasized that in the face of increasingly severe threats, the government will not stop doing its utmost to ensure that our national sovereignty is not infringed upon, and expressed hope that all citizens unite in solidarity to resist being divided. The president also expressed hope that citizens work together to increase media literacy, organize and participate in civic education activities, promptly expose concerted united front efforts, and refuse to participate in any activities that sacrifice national interests. As long as every citizen plays their part toward our nation’s goals for prosperity and security, he said, and as long as we work together, nothing can defeat us. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: At many venues recently, a number of citizens have expressed similar concerns to me. They have noticed cases in which members of the military, both active-duty and retired, have been bought out by China, sold intelligence, or even organized armed forces with plans to harm their own nation and its citizens. They have noticed cases in which entertainers willingly followed instructions from Beijing to claim that their country is not a country, all for the sake of personal career interests. They have noticed how messaging used by Chinese state media to stir up internal opposition in Taiwan is always quickly spread by specific channels. There have even been individuals making careers out of helping Chinese state media record united front content, spreading a message that democracy is useless and promoting skepticism toward the United States and the military to sow division and opposition. Many people worry that our country, as well as our hard-won freedom and democracy and the prosperity and progress we achieved together, are being washed away bit by bit due to these united front tactics. In an analysis of China’s united front, renowned strategic scholar Kerry K. Gershaneck expressed that China plans to divide and conquer us through subversion, infiltration, and acquisition of media, and by launching media warfare, psychological warfare, and legal warfare. What they are trying to do is to sow seeds of discord in our society, keep us occupied with internal conflicts, and cause us to ignore the real threat from outside. China’s ambition over the past several decades to annex Taiwan and stamp out the Republic of China has not changed for even a day. It continues to pursue political and military intimidation, and its united front infiltration of Taiwan’s society grows ever more serious. In 2005, China promulgated its so-called “Anti-Secession Law,” which makes using military force to annex Taiwan a national undertaking. Last June, China issued a 22-point set of “guidelines for punishing Taiwan independence separatists,” which regards all those who do not accept that “Taiwan is part of the People’s Republic of China” as targets for punishment, creating excuses to harm the people of Taiwan. China has also recently been distorting United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758, showing in all aspects China’s increasingly urgent threat against Taiwan’s sovereignty. Lately, China has been taking advantage of democratic Taiwan’s freedom, diversity, and openness to recruit gangs, the media, commentators, political parties, and even active-duty and retired members of the armed forces and police to carry out actions to divide, destroy, and subvert us from within. A report from the National Security Bureau indicates that 64 persons were charged last year with suspicion of spying for China, which was three times the number of persons charged for the same offense in 2021. Among them, the Unionist Party, Rehabilitation Alliance Party, and Republic of China Taiwan Military Government formed treasonous organizations to deploy armed forces for China. In a democratic and free society, such cases are appalling. But this is something that actually exists within Taiwan’s society today. China also actively plots ways to infiltrate and spy on our military. Last year, 28 active-duty and 15 retired members of the armed forces were charged with suspicion of involvement in spying for China, respectively comprising 43 percent and 23 percent of all of such cases – 66 percent in total. We are also alert to the fact that China has recently used widespread issuance of Chinese passports to entice Taiwanese citizens to apply for the Residence Permit for Taiwan Residents, permanent residency, or the Resident Identity Card, in an attempt to muddle Taiwanese people’s sense of national identity. China also views cross-strait exchanges as a channel for its united front against Taiwan, marking enemies in Taiwan internally, creating internal divisions, and weakening our sense of who the enemy really is. It intends to weaken public authority and create the illusion that China is “governing” Taiwan, thereby expanding its influence within Taiwan. We are also aware that China has continued to expand its strategy of integrated development with Taiwan. It employs various methods to demand and coerce Taiwanese businesses to increase their investments in China, entice Taiwanese youth to develop their careers in China, and unscrupulously seeks to poach Taiwan’s talent and steal key technologies. Such methods impact our economic security and greatly increase the risk of our young people heading to China. By its actions, China already satisfies the definition of a “foreign hostile force” as provided in the Anti-Infiltration Act. We have no choice but to take even more proactive measures, which is my purpose in convening this high-level national security meeting today. It is time we adopt proper preventive measures, enhance our democratic resilience and national security, and protect our cherished free and democratic way of life. Next, I will be giving a detailed account of the five major national security and united front threats Taiwan now faces and the 17 major strategies we have prepared in response. I. Responding to China’s threats to our national sovereignty We have a nation insofar as we have sovereignty, and we have the Republic of China insofar as we have Taiwan. Just as I said during my inaugural address last May, and in my National Day address last October: The moment when Taiwan’s first democratically elected president took the oath of office in 1996 sent a message to the international community, that Taiwan is a sovereign, independent, democratic nation. Among people here and in the international community, some call this land the Republic of China, some call it Taiwan, and some, the Republic of China Taiwan. The Republic of China and the People’s Republic of China are not subordinate to each other, and Taiwan resists any annexation or encroachment upon our sovereignty. The future of the Republic of China Taiwan must be decided by its 23 million people. This is the status quo that we must maintain. The broadest consensus in Taiwanese society is that we must defend our sovereignty, uphold our free and democratic way of life, and resolutely oppose annexation of Taiwan by China. (1) I request that the National Security Council (NSC), the Ministry of National Defense (MND), and the administrative team do their utmost to promote the Four Pillars of Peace action plan to demonstrate the people’s broad consensus and firm resolve, consistent across the entirety of our nation, to oppose annexation of Taiwan by China. (2) I request that the NSC and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs draft an action plan that will, through collaboration with our friends and allies, convey to the world our national will and broad social consensus in opposing annexation of Taiwan by China and in countering China’s efforts to erase Taiwan from the international community and downgrade Taiwan’s sovereignty. II. Responding to China’s threats from infiltration and espionage activities targeting our military (1) Comprehensively review and amend our Law of Military Trial to restore the military trial system, allowing military judges to return to the frontline and collaborate with prosecutorial, investigative, and judicial authorities in the handling of criminal cases in which active-duty military personnel are suspected of involvement in such military crimes as sedition, aiding the enemy, leaking confidential information, dereliction of duty, or disobedience. In the future, criminal cases involving active-duty military personnel who are suspected of violating the Criminal Code of the Armed Forces will be tried by a military court. (2) Implement supporting reforms, including the establishment of a personnel management act for military judges and separate organization acts for military courts and military prosecutors’ offices. Once planning and discussion are completed, the MND will fully explain to and communicate with the public to ensure that the restoration of the military trial system gains the trust and full support of society. (3) To deter the various types of controversial rhetoric and behavior exhibited by active-duty as well as retired military personnel that severely damage the morale of our national military, the MND must discuss and propose an addition to the Criminal Code of the Armed Forces on penalties for expressions of loyalty to the enemy as well as revise the regulations for military personnel and their families receiving retirement benefits, so as to uphold military discipline. III. Responding to China’s threats aimed at obscuring the national identity of the people of Taiwan (1) I request that the Ministry of the Interior (MOI), Mainland Affairs Council (MAC), and other relevant agencies, wherever necessary, carry out inspections and management of the documents involving identification that Taiwanese citizens apply for in China, including: passports, ID cards, permanent residence certificates, and residence certificates, especially when the applicants are military personnel, civil servants, or public school educators, who have an obligation of loyalty to Taiwan. This will be done to strictly prevent and deter united front operations, which are performed by China under the guise of “integrated development,” that attempt to distort our people’s national identity. (2) With respect to naturalization and integration of individuals from China, Hong Kong, and Macau into Taiwanese society, more national security considerations must be taken into account while also attending to Taiwan’s social development and individual rights: Chinese nationals applying for permanent residency in Taiwan must, in accordance with the law of Taiwan, relinquish their existing household registration and passport and may not hold dual identity status. As for the systems in place to process individuals from Hong Kong or Macau applying for residency or permanent residency in Taiwan, there will be additional provisions for long-term residency to meet practical needs. IV. Responding to China’s threats from united front infiltration into Taiwanese society through cross-strait exchanges  (1) There are increasing risks involved with travel to China. (From January 1, 2024 to today, the MAC has received reports of 71 Taiwanese nationals who went missing, were detained, interrogated, or imprisoned in China; the number of unreported people who have been subjected to such treatment may be several times that. Of those, three elderly I-Kuan Tao members were detained in China in December of last year and have not yet been released.) In light of this, relevant agencies must raise public awareness of those risks, continue enhancing public communication, and implement various registration systems to reduce the potential for accidents and the risks associated with traveling to China. (2) Implement a disclosure system for exchanges with China involving public officials at all levels of the central and local government. This includes everyone from administrative officials to elected representatives, from legislators to village and neighborhood chiefs, all of whom should make the information related to such exchanges both public and transparent so that they can be accountable to the people. The MOI should also establish a disclosure system for exchanges with China involving public welfare organizations, such as religious groups, in order to prevent China’s interference and united front activities at their outset. (3) Manage the risks associated with individuals from China engaging in exchanges with Taiwan: Review and approval of Chinese individuals coming to Taiwan should be limited to normal cross-strait exchanges and official interactions under the principles of parity and dignity, and relevant factors such as changes in the cross-strait situation should be taken into consideration. Strict restrictions should be placed on Chinese individuals who have histories with the united front coming to Taiwan, and Chinese individuals should be prohibited from coming to Taiwan to conduct activities related in any way to the united front. (4) Political interference from China and the resulting risks to national security should be avoided in cross-strait exchanges. This includes the review and management of religious, cultural, academic, and education exchanges, which should in principle be depoliticized and de-risked so as to simplify people-to-people exchanges and promote healthy and orderly exchanges. (5) To deter the united front tactics of a cultural nature employed by Chinese nationals to undermine Taiwan’s sovereignty, the Executive Yuan must formulate a solution to make our local cultural industries more competitive, including enhanced support and incentives for our film, television, and cultural and creative industries to boost their strengths in democratic cultural creation, raise international competitiveness, and encourage research in Taiwan’s own history and culture. (6) Strengthen guidance and management for entertainers developing their careers in China. The competent authorities should provide entertainers with guidelines on conduct while working in China, and make clear the scope of investigation and response to conduct that endangers national dignity. This will help prevent China from pressuring Taiwanese entertainers to make statements or act in ways that endanger national dignity. (7) The relevant authorities must adopt proactive, effective measures to prevent China from engaging in cognitive warfare against Taiwan or endangering cybersecurity through the internet, applications, AI, and other such tools. (8) To implement these measures, each competent authority must run a comprehensive review of the relevant administrative ordinances, measures, and interpretations, and complete the relevant regulations for legal enforcement. Should there be any shortcomings, the legal framework for national security should be strengthened and amendments to the National Security Act, Anti-Infiltration Act, Act Governing Relations between the People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area, Laws and Regulations Regarding Hong Kong & Macao Affairs, or Cyber Security Management Act should be proposed. Communication with the public should also be increased so that implementation can happen as soon as possible. V. Responding to threats from China using “integrated development” to attract Taiwanese businesspeople and youth (1) I request that the NSC and administrative agencies work together to carry out strategic structural adjustments to the economic and trade relations between Taiwan and China based on the strategies of putting Taiwan first and expanding our global presence while staying rooted in Taiwan. In addition, they should carry out necessary, orderly adjustments to the flow of talent, goods, money, and skills involved in cross-strait economic and trade relations based on the principle of strengthening Taiwan’s foundations to better manage risk. This will help boost economic security and give us more power to respond to China’s economic and trade united front and economic coercion against Taiwan. (2) I request that the Ministry of Education, MAC, Ministry of Economic Affairs, and other relevant agencies work together to comprehensively strengthen young students’ literacy education on China and deepen their understanding of cross-strait exchanges. I also request these agencies to widely publicize mechanisms for employment and entrepreneurship for Taiwan’s youth and provide ample information and assistance so that young students have more confidence in the nation’s future and more actively invest in building up and developing Taiwan. My fellow citizens, this year marks the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War. History tells us that any authoritarian act of aggression or annexation will ultimately end in failure. The only way we can safeguard freedom and prevail against authoritarian aggression is through solidarity. As we face increasingly severe threats, the government will not stop doing its utmost to ensure that our national sovereignty is not infringed upon, and to ensure that the freedom, democracy, and way of life of Taiwan’s 23 million people continues on as normal. But relying solely on the power of the government is not enough. What we need even more is for all citizens to stay vigilant and take action. Every citizen stands on the frontline of the defense of democracy and freedom. Here is what we can do together: First, we can increase our media literacy, and refrain from spreading and passing on united front messaging from the Chinese state. Second, we can organize and participate in civic education activities to increase our knowledge about united front operations and build up whole-of-society defense resilience. Third, we can promptly expose concerted united front efforts so that all malicious attempts are difficult to carry out. Fourth, we must refuse to participate in any activities that sacrifice national interests. The vigilance and action of every citizen forms the strongest line of defense against united front infiltration. Only through solidarity can we resist being divided. As long as every citizen plays their part toward our nation’s goals for prosperity and security, and as long as we work together, nothing can defeat us.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Greenland announces new autonomous govt

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Greenland announced the formation of a new autonomous government on Friday amid heightened tensions with the United States.

    Just hours before the arrival of U.S. Vice President JD Vance on the Arctic island, a ceremony was held at the Katuaq Cultural Center in the Greenlandic capital of Nuuk, where four political parties representing 23 of the 31 seats in the parliament signed a coalition agreement to form the new government.

    Jens-Frederik Nielsen, chairman of the Demokraatit (Democratic Party), will serve as the new prime minister.

    Following the announcement, Nielsen emphasized national unity in the face of international pressure. “By now forming a broad coalition, we will ensure that no one in the world should have any doubt that Greenland stands united,” he told journalists.

    He reiterated that Greenland is not for sale and has no desire to become part of the United States.

    The new cabinet includes former Prime Minister Mute Egede, who will now take on the role of minister of finance and taxation. Speaking to the media, Egede said: “We are obliged to lead our country forward with the pressure that is from the outside world right now, and the interest that is in our country.”

    Vivian Motzfeldt, incoming foreign minister of Greenland’s government, told Xinhua that mutual respect must be the basis for any diplomatic engagement. “I believe it’s also crucial for us to return to a more normal way of life, especially considering the recent developments in the United States,” she said.

    “A healthy dialogue requires mutual respect. If we want a meaningful conversation, we must also show respect for the other country. So, for me, it’s essential that we establish common ground based on mutual respect,” she added.

    Aqqalu Jerimiassen, chairman of the Atassut party, underscored the need for national unity in the light of recent provocations. “Right now, I believe the priority is unity – taking care of each other and building cooperation, rather than reacting to provocations, especially those coming from the United States, and particularly from that orange-haired man (U.S. President Donald Trump) who keeps trying to provoke us,” he told Xinhua.

    In Copenhagen, when Denmark’s King Frederik X was asked by local media TV2 to comment on the growing tensions between the United States, Denmark, and Greenland, he confirmed his love for Greenland, saying that “my connection to the Greenlandic people is intact.” He also stressed that “we live in a changed reality.”

    The announcement of the new coalition drew applause from local residents at the Katuaq center. “I hope the new government can speak out on behalf of the people of Greenland,” Aviaja Martinsen, a citizen of Nuuk, told Xinhua.

    Later that day, Vance and his wife Usha, together with U.S. National Security Adviser Mike Waltz and Energy Secretary Chris Wright, arrived in Greenland. Vance delivered a speech at a U.S. military base and received a security briefing on the Arctic situation from U.S. military officials at the Pituffik Space Base.

    The timing of Vance’s visit has raised eyebrows, following repeated assertions by Donald Trump that the United States wants to take over Greenland. Officials in both Nuuk and Copenhagen view the visit as provocative.

    At a Friday press briefing at the White House, Trump reiterated: “We are not talking about peace for the United States. We are talking about world peace. We are talking about international security. And if Denmark and the EU do not understand it, we must explain it to them.”

    Greenland, once a Danish colony, became an integral part of the Kingdom of Denmark in 1953. It was granted home rule in 1979, expanding its autonomy, though Denmark retains control over foreign affairs and defense.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Devastating temblor hits Myanmar, Thailand, killing over 1,000

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    At least 1,002 people were killed, 2,376 injured and 30 missing as of Saturday morning after a 7.7-magnitude earthquake hit Myanmar on Friday, the Information Team of Myanmar’s State Administration Council reported.

    Myanmar’s State Administration Council Chairman, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, arrived in Mandalay Province by helicopter on Saturday morning to inspect the severely affected area, according to Myanmar Radio and Television.

    The devastation has been widespread, with Mandalay, Bago, Magway, northeastern Shan State, Sagaing, and Nay Pyi Taw among the hardest-hit regions. The Myanmar government has declared a national emergency.

    Myanmar’s Department of Meteorology and Hydrology said Saturday morning that 12 aftershocks, with magnitudes ranging from 2.8 to 7.5, occurred on Friday following an earthquake at 12:51 p.m. local time.

    The only highway linking Myanmar’s Yangon in the south and central Nay Pyi Taw and Mandalay was severely damaged, Xinhua reporters witnessed when heading to the most affected areas.

    People have resorted to using the older Yangon-Mandalay road to arrive at the quake-hit areas and facilitate rescue efforts. Additionally, the collapse of buildings in Mandalay Airport and sections of the highway has further disrupted travel between Yangon and Mandalay, Myanmar’s two largest cities.

    The devastating temblor also affected Thailand and other Southeast Asian countries. Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra on Friday announced a state of emergency in Bangkok.

    As of Saturday morning, the quake has left nine people dead, nine injured and 101 others remain missing in the Thai capital, Bangkok. Fourteen provinces have reported damage following the earthquake, said the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation.

    Tremors were felt in Thailand’s 57 provinces, particularly in Bangkok, prompting mass evacuations from office buildings, residential complexes, and convention centers as people gathered on the streets and in parks as temporary shelters.

    Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra said during a meeting for earthquake disaster updates and relief measures on Saturday that the earthquake situation has stabilized, with aftershock intensity gradually weakening.

    In Laos and Vietnam, buildings above three stories experienced noticeable shaking, with residents in high-rise buildings feeling swaying indoors.

    The United Nations on Friday allocated an emergency 5 million U.S. dollars for earthquake aid to Myanmar, where nearly 20 million people need assistance, including more than 3.5 million people displaced from their homes.

    A 37-member rescue team from southwestern China’s Yunnan province arrived early this morning at Yangon, Myanmar, to provide assistance in disaster relief and rescue efforts.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst on Justice for Sarah Root

    US Senate News:

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

    WASHINGTON – One week ago today – after nearly a decade of work by U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) to bring closure for the Root family – Sarah Root’s killer, an illegal immigrant who escaped due to a loophole in the law, was delivered into U.S. custody to face justice.
    Since Sarah Root was killed in 2016, Ernst has been advocating to bring her killer to justice alongside Sarah’s parents, Michelle and Scott Root. This year, President Trump made Ernst’s Sarah’s Law the law of the land to help ensure this never happens to another family.

    Watch Senator Ernst and Michelle Root’s full interview with KCCI here.
    “‘I was in disbelief. I had come to the fact that I would probably not see justice in my lifetime for my daughter’… [Michelle] Root credits Iowa Senator Joni Ernst. ‘Senator Ernst has become like family to us.’ Earlier this year, Congress passed the Laken Riley Act, which includes Sarah’s Law. Ernst says it requires authorities to detain any undocumented immigrant who commits a crime resulting in death or serious injury. With Sarah’s Law in place and Mejia awaiting trial. Root says she’s closer to finding closure. ‘Those two things were what we had been fighting for the last nine years. We will never get closure until we meet Sarah again, of course, but it closes that chapter.’”

    KCSI | Ernst Remembers Root Family as Sarah Root’s Killer is Now in U.S. Custody
    “I know there are a ton of people to thank about this, but I need to because we’re with Senator Ernst and as you said, she has brought from the beginning to get Sarah’s Law passed. I could not have asked for a better person by our side fighting with us and for us… Even when I wanted to quit, she kept going.”

    Watch Senator Ernst’s full interview  here.
    “This has been nine years in the making. It was nine years ago, at the end of January, on her college graduation day, that young Sarah Root was killed by an illegal immigrant… Thanks to the Trump administration, thank you to Secretary Noem and Secretary Rubio. We were able to locate this illegal migrant who had killed Sarah Root, and they were able to bring him back to face justice. So it means a lot to me, but especially means a lot to her parents, Michelle Root and Scott Root of Council Bluffs, Iowa.”
     
    Watch Senator Ernst’s full Newsmax interview here.
    “President Donald Trump wanted to do something about it. He never forgot about Sarah Root. And finally, now this man is going through the U.S. judicial system, and he will be held to account for the killing of sweet Sarah Root, who was only 21 years old when she was killed nine years ago.”
    Print Coverage of Ernst’s Advocacy:
    Council Bluffs Nonpareil | Sarah Root’s alleged killer extradited from Honduras to Omaha
    “In a Friday evening press call, Sen. Joni Ernst announced she had just left Eppley Airfield in Omaha, where Eswin Mejia was taken into U.S. custody. He is being held in the Douglas County Jail in Nebraska as he awaits trial in Root’s death.”
    “Ernst called the case a long-fought battle that has spanned nearly a decade, praising the Trump administration for acting to ‘prevent this from happening to someone else’s daughter’ while rebuking the Biden administration for removing Mejia from ICE’s Most Wanted list.”
    KWQC | Alleged killer of Iowan Sarah Root extradited from Honduras
    “Republican U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst from Iowa, who worked for nine years to pass Sarah’s Law, praised President Donald Trump for extraditing Mejia.”
    Omaha World Herald | Honduran man accused in fatal 2016 crash extradited to Omaha, held on $100 million bail
    “[Ernst is] incredibly thankful for President Trump’s strong action, his hardworking administration and steadfast partnership to right this wrong on behalf of Iowa families.”
    Radio Iowa | Honduran charged with 2016 murder of Iowan extradited to Omaha
    “The first bill Trump signed into law this year includes what’s called ‘Sarah’s Law.’ It requires authorities to detain any illegal immigrant who is accused of murdering or seriously injuring someone in the U.S. Ernst and other members of Iowa’s congressional delegation had sponsored the legislation for the past eight years.”
    KCRG| Senator Ernst applauds Trump admin following the extradition of Sarah Root’s murderer
    “Since this incident, Senator Ernst has been actively fighting for justice for the Root family. ‘For over nine years, I have called for justice on behalf of Sarah Root, and today President Trump and his administration are delivering. Sarah should still be alive today, and for too long Michelle, Scott, and the rest of her loved ones have been forced to live with the fact that her killer was running free.’”
    KETV| Man accused in Omaha motor vehicle homicide that earned national attention to be extradited to United States
    “After years of trying to get the bill passed in both chambers of Congress, ‘Sarah’s Law’ was signed by Speaker Mike Johnson and made its way to President Donald Trump’s desk. U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst spearheaded the effort.”
    Breitbart | Trump Administration Secures Extradition of Illegal Alien Accused of Killing 21-Year-Old Sarah Root
    “Ernst has worked for years on Root’s case, including working with the Trump administration on Mejia’s extradition. In January, Trump signed Sarah’s Law, authored by Ernst, into federal law which will require illegal aliens who commit violent crimes to remain detained in police custody.”
    KIOW| Ernst on the Apprehension of Eswin Mejia
    “Senator Joni Ernst has continually fought for the apprehension and extradition of Mejia to the United States. She was at the airport when Mejia landed on U. S. soil and was taken into custody.”
    WOWT | $100 million bond set for man charged in 2016 Omaha street racing crash that killed Sarah Root
    “The fact that Mejia was able to bond out and subsequently flee the U.S. led Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) to create ‘Sarah’s Law,’ named after Root, which requires illegal immigrants who have committed violent crimes against Americans to be detained regardless of bail status.”
    KFJB | ESWIN MEJIA TO STAND TRIAL NEARLY A DECADE AFTER THE KILLING OF SARAH ROOTS
    “Trump met with Root’s mother and her father, Scott Root, in mid-2016 and Trump talked about their daughter’s death on the campaign trail. The first bill Trump signed into law this year includes what’s called ‘Sarah’s Law.’ It requires authorities to detain any illegal immigrant who is accused of murdering or seriously injuring someone in the U.S. Ernst and other members of Iowa’s congressional delegation had sponsored the legislation for the past eight years.”
    TV Coverage of Ernst’s Advocacy:

    Watch KETV’s coverage here.
    “Senator Joni Ernst has been a champion for Sarah and her family, and her efforts and leadership were crucial in Mejia’s extradition.”
    “The story gained national attention after Congress passed Sarah’s Law. It requires police to detain an undocumented immigrant who commits a crime resulting in death or injury.”

    Watch KCCI’s coverage  here.
    “He is now in jail in Omaha…finally, Edwin Mejia will face long overdue consequence after breaking our laws and taking an innocent life.”

    Watch KCRG’s coverage  here.
    “U.S. Senator Joni Ernst worked for nine years to pass Sarah’s Law. That was an amendment to the Laken Riley Act…Ernst released a statement thanking the Trump administration for the work to extradite Mejia.”

    Watch KTIV’s coverage here.
    “The case inspired lawmakers to craft Sarah’s Law, which was recently signed into law by President Trump as part of the Laken Riley Act. Tonight, one of the lawmakers who led that legislation, Iowa Senator Joni Ernst, celebrated the news that Mejia will finally stand trial.”

    Watch KWQC’s coverage here.
    “Sarah’s family helped pass a law in her honor, requiring immigrants to be detained if they’re involved with the death or serious injury of another person.”
    “Iowa Senator Joni Ernst has demanded justice for Root’s death since she died in 2016. Today, she celebrated a milestone moment in her quest for justice, saying, ‘finally, Edwin Mejia will face the long overdue consequences after breaking our laws and taking an innocent life. I’m incredibly thankful for President Trump’s strong action, his hardworking administration and steadfast partnership to right this wrong on behalf of Iowa families.’”

    Watch One America News’ coverage  here.
    “Iowa Senator Joni Ernst became a leading voice in the fight for justice for Root as the family came from Iowa.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Transcript: Governor Hochul is a Guest on ‘Politics Unusual’

    Source: US State of New York

    arlier today, Governor Kathy Hochul was a guest on WNYW-TV’s “Politics Unusual.”

    AUDIO: The Governor’s remarks are available in audio form here.

    A rush transcript of the Governor’s remarks is available below:

    Morgan McKay, WNYW-TV: We are just days away from when the New York State Budget is due, but negotiations hit their first major roadblock on Thursday. Most lawmakers went home for the weekend and won’t be back in Albany until Tuesday. But not everyone went home and negotiations are continuing up in Albany, which is why my first guest, Governor Kathy Hochul, is joining us remotely today from Albany.

    Governor, thank you so much for being here. I knew you’d wanted to be here in person but thank you for finding the time for this interview.

    Governor Hochul: Thanks, Morgan, and congratulations on your new show. I think it’s going to provide an important public service so you can help them dissect the issues of the day, so thank you.

    Morgan McKay, WNYW-TV: Thank you so much, Governor. So, for our viewers, how Budget negotiations work: The Governor, Senate Majority Leader and Assembly Speaker, you’re all locked in a room for the most part, negotiating, hashing out that Budget. And it used to be called three men in a room, but now it’s two women and one man in a room. So the big question, will there be a Budget by April 1, or are you guys going to need to pass a Budget extender?

    Governor Hochul: Morgan, at this point, we’re still in deep conversations. There is a rhythm. You’re a real veteran of Albany, you know that it starts out with a flurry. We have a lot of intense meetings with leaders. We have a chance to share our top priorities, as I have done.

    We know public safety is number one. Getting these discovery law changes so cases aren’t thrown out is an important part of my agenda. Also, making sure that we deal with people who have severe mental illness, who can’t take care of themselves, who are on the streets of New York or in the subway. And also my affordability agenda and cell phones.

    So I have a chance early on to present my vision, and then the legislators have to take it back to their conferences. So when there’s a lull, which is very much part of the rhythm, it’s usually because they have to go back and maybe fine-tune some language or they have to talk to their conferences. So this is not unusual. This is my fourth Budget and we may or may not make April 1.

    But the truth is, I’ve been successful in achieving the goals I set out to do, and that’s what I’m focusing on right now, delivering for the people of this great state.

    Morgan McKay, WNYW-TV: Exactly. And one of these sayings up in Albany is, a deal has to come together and fall apart at least three times before you guys make a final Budget deal.

    But I’m hearing that one of the sticking points in this Budget is that involuntary removal language. Now, where do you guys stand exactly on this issue and getting those struggling with mental illness off the streets and into long-term care? I’m hearing some of the concerns are that they’re going to be back out onto the streets. How do you stop that revolving door?

    Governor Hochul: Well, that’s what’s happening right now, Morgan. They are being — sometimes off the streets because they’re in the throes of a severe mental health crisis. They could do harm to other people or themselves. But we’re also saying, in a case where someone clearly cannot take care of themselves, they’re not being fed properly, their clothes are not clean and they’re just unfortunately sliding into this place which is really inhumane.

    And when we see that, it is heartbreaking. These are God’s children as well. They deserve better than that. And if they don’t have the mental capacity to make decisions, then we have a moral responsibility to get them help.

    What that means is go to a hospital, be seen by two psychiatric experts and make a decision, should they be confined to the hospital. Not a jail. Not a jail. We’re talking about confined to a hospital in a nurturing, supportive environment and getting them on a path to recovery. And why that is so complicated, I’m not sure, because it’s common sense. It recognizes the dignity of every human life, but also takes away the anxiety that people have when they see these individuals because there have been cases where there have been violent acts and it’s unsettling for people on the subway in the streets.

    So we’re trying to get to language that is in place in 43 other states. So I don’t know why this is so challenging, but I’m very committed to getting this done.

    Morgan McKay, WNYW-TV: Now, Governor, earlier this year, you proposed guardrails on Mayor Eric Adams after there were allegations that he was cooperating with the federal government to get his criminal charges dropped. Do you think those guardrails will be in the budget?

    Governor Hochul: No. They have to go to the City Council first. We knew there was a process that said they have to make the changes and ask for a home rule change from the Legislature.

    So again, I was creating options for people in the city who were very concerned about that dynamic that was unfolding; is there undue pressure on the Mayor or not? I thought that we put in some guardrails related to legal decisions and investigations and the budget. Just some ways that we can keep an eye on the situation and give people that sense of confidence, which I thought would be helpful to the Mayor and the city getting stabilized. And if the City Council doesn’t want to do it, then they must be fine with the status quo. I was just reaching out a hand to help out and it’s up to the people in the City Council to decide whether to send it to the Legislature.

    Morgan McKay, WNYW-TV: Yeah, and Adams just recently appointed as First Deputy Mayor, Randy Mastro. He was leading a lawsuit against New York with New Jersey against congestion pricing, and he did back away from representing New Jersey in his lawsuits after he became First Deputy Mayor, but he is still representing Madison Square Garden and James Dolan, what’s your take on this?

    Governor Hochul: Well, I’ll tell you, we won rather handily against him in the congestion pricing lawsuit because they had nothing to stand on. And they actually ended up in a worse place than we were willing to do for them. So I’ll just put that as the aside.

    We are going to continue fighting for congestion pricing because it is working and many naysayers and people who said, “Never, never, never,” are saying, “Eh, it’s actually working.”

    It’s up to the Mayor who he selects to have around him. I hope he’ll pick people that inspire confidence. But again, my job is to work with the Mayor because I also represent 8.3 million New York City residents.

    Morgan McKay, WNYW-TV: Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy this week has been threatening to cut off federal funding to the MTA if there’s not some sort of subway safety plan.

    In fact he said, and we’re going to play this sound by, I know you can’t see it Governor, but we’re going to play it here. And then we’re going to give you a chance to respond. Go ahead.

    Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy: If you want people to take the train, take transit, then make it safe. Make it clean, make it beautiful, make it wonderful.

    Morgan McKay, WNYW-TV: Now they’re saying that if the State doesn’t give them a subway safety plan that they’re going to cut this funding. What’s your response?

    Governor Hochul: We have given them a subway safety plan. Something I unveiled three years ago. Which as you can see with the crime rates being 50 percent lower than they were back when Rudy Giuliani was the Mayor, “Mr. Tough on Crime,” 50 percent lower than that time, 25 percent lower than last year.

    I’m never going to be satisfied with the rate of subway crimes on the subway in our city. No one is ever satisfied as long as there’s even one. But you cannot argue with the fact that my cops plan, I’m funding — State is paying for overtime for police officers, two on every train starting at nine o’clock at night. That has calmed the situation down dramatically. I wanted to make that investment. That’s important. We now have cameras on every single train. I focused on this intently and got it done. We’re also putting up barriers in the subways so people are nervous about being pushed into the tracks. We’ve had some horrific cases.

    They will feel safer behind these barriers as well as continue to collect fares. Fair evasion is down 25 percent, but I’m not done. So I’m happy to work with the Secretary and show him what we’re doing and if he has other ideas on how to do that, we’ll be happy to take assistance from the federal government because they have a vested interest in the success of our subway system as well, because as goes New York City’s economy, so goes the nation.

    And I’ll work with him. He can call it anything he wants, but I know that people in the city rely on the subway and it is safer. It’s not where we want it to go yet, but it is safer than it was. But also he says people won’t take the subway. It’s up 10 percent since January, so people are taking the subway.

    Morgan McKay, WNYW-TV: Thank you so much, Governor, and we have one last question for you here. We reached out to our TikTok viewers and asked them if they wanted to ask you a question, which we’re going to put up here. And this is from Joey Lorenza – with opening day being yesterday, who is the Governor rooting for this baseball season?

    Governor Hochul: All right, here’s how I have to do this. I was raised as a Yankee fan, okay? In Western New York, the closest team of the Toronto Blue Jays, clearly we’re not going for a Canadian team. So there’s a lot of love for the Yankees. I watched them closely when I was in college. I knew all the players, watched them intensely, but I’m also from Buffalo and I have this affinity for the underdog, which the Mets historically had been.

    So I love when an underdog that’s trying to — really scrappy and trying hard. So I say, I want to see the Mets do it because the Yankees got really far last year and I’d like to see the Mets go that far this year. So there you have it. It’ll get me in trouble with half the population, but I will always be willing to take a position on something that’s as important as baseball.

    Morgan McKay, WNYW-TV: Thank you again so much, Governor, for taking the time. I also have my split allegiance between the two teams. Thank you for being here, even if it is virtually. I really appreciate it.

    Governor Hochul: Alright, thanks Morgan. Good luck with the show.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Seize the mining wealth opportunity in 2025 JA Mining helps you easily earn passive income

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Miami, FL, March 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —
    In recent years, the global demand for clean energy and sustainable development has surged, and the mining industry has ushered in changes. JA Mining has rapidly emerged as an industry leader with innovative technology, sustainable strategy and global layout, creating new wealth opportunities for individuals and companies to earn $150,000.

    How to make money with JA Mining?

    JA Mining provides users with a variety of ways to participate in mining investment and earn income. Both novice and professional investors can find an investment plan that suits them. The following are the main ways to make money:

    Start making money!

    1. Register to get $100

    JA Mining launched a new user registration to give away $100, which can be used for mining investment and start earning income.

    2. Cloud mining computing power leasing

    JA Mining’s cloud mining service provides a variety of contract plans, there is always one suitable for you, such as:

    ● Basic cloud computing plan: Invest $200, 2-day contract, profit $214.

    ● Classic cloud computing plan: Invest $600, 3-day contract, profit $634.

    ● Advanced Cloud Computing Plan: Invest $1,330, 5-day contract, profit $1,466.

    ● Super Cloud Computing Plan: Invest $6,000, 14-day contract, profit $7,898.

    3. Referral Reward Program

    JA Mining has launched a referral reward mechanism, where users can get up to 7% extra income by inviting friends.

    4. Compound investment and income reinvestment

    Users can continue to invest the income they have obtained into new investment plans, thereby achieving compound growth and maximizing long-term investment returns.

    What are the advantages of JA Mining?

    JA Mining stands out in the mining investment market mainly due to the following core advantages:

    ● Get $100 when you sign up, lowering the threshold

    ● FCA supervision, safe and reliable

    ● No hidden fees or maintenance fees

    ● Flexible and diverse investment options

    ● Serving the world, 24/7 customer support

    ● Environmentally friendly and sustainable development

    Conclusion

    As a company strictly regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) of the United Kingdom, JA Mining is known for its transparency, efficiency and compliance, providing investors with a safe and reliable investment environment. In addition, JA Mining combines traditional mining with modern financial technology, making mining investment no longer limited to large enterprises, but open to ordinary investors around the world.

    Act now and seize the opportunity! Join JA Mining, receive your $100 reward, and start your digital wealth journey!

    Official website: https://jamining.com/

    Contact email: info@jamining.com

    Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. Cryptocurrency mining and staking involve risk. There is potential for loss of funds. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sols 4493-4494: Just Looking Around

    Source: NASA

    Written by Alex Innanen, atmospheric scientist at York University
    Earth planning date: Wednesday, March 26, 2025
    It’s my second shift of the week as the Environmental theme lead and keeper of the plan (a bit of a mouthful we shorten to ESTLK) and today started out feeling eerily similar to Monday. Once again, Curiosity is posing like a geologist, which means that once again we can’t unstow the arm and will be skipping contact science. The silver lining is that this means we have extra time to have a good look around.
    The plan also looks similar to Monday’s — targeted remote sensing on the first sol before driving away, and then untargeted remote sensing on the next. On sol 4493 we start our remote sensing, almost as remote as we can get, with a suprahorizon movie looking for clouds in the south. A dust-devil survey rounds out the sol’s environmental observations, and then the geology theme group can get down to the serious business of looking at rocks. For Mastcam this means observing a group of bedrock targets all called “Observatory Trail” (one of which you can see in the middle of the image above), pointing out some interesting veins in “Point Loma,” and casting their gaze out toward “Black Butte” (which I could not think of a fun pun for…). ChemCam has a LIBS observation of “Cholla,” as well as two long-distance observations of the Texoli Butte and the boxwork structures. Our second sol is a little more restrained, as untargeted sols tend to be. But Curiosity will still have plenty of energy after a good rest. We’re taking advantage of that with an extra-long dust-devil movie. Even though we’re in our cloudy season, we still sometimes see dust lifting, and having that extra time to look out for it increases our chances of catching a wind gust or a dust devil in action. Alongside that we also have a Mastcam tau observation to keep an eye on the amount of dust in the atmosphere, and wrap up with a ChemCam AEGIS activity to autonomously choose a LIBS target.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Two injured in stabbing at Morphett Vale

    Source: New South Wales – News

    Police are investigating a violent altercation at Morphett Vale that resulted in two people sustaining stab wounds.

    Police and paramedics were called to Columba Street, Morphett Vale about 12.45am on Saturday 29 March by reports of a serious assault.

    When officers arrived, they located the occupant of the house, a 27-year-old Morphett Vale man, with multiple stab wounds.

    He was taken to hospital with serious injuries, but they are no longer believed to be life-threatening at this time.

    It will be alleged that four people attended and forced their way into the property and a violent altercation occurred inside the house.

    While police were at the scene at Morphett Vale, another man, aged 22 from Port Noarlunga, also presented at Flinders Medical Centre with serious stab wounds, believed to have occurred in the same incident.

    Southern District CIB detectives, with the assistance of Major Crime detectives, and forensic response officers, attended and examined the scene overnight.

    The investigation is continuing.  This incident is not believed to be random.

    Anyone with information that may assist the investigation or has any CCTV or dashcam footage from the street that may assist the investigation is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 0000 or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressmen Goldman, Crow Lead Letter Demanding Trump Administration Reinstate Funding for Unaccompanied Minors’ Legal Representation

    Source: US Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)

    Defunding of Bipartisan Program Forces 26,000 Unaccompanied Children to Navigate Immigration System Alone   

     

    Move Leaves Children as Young as 2 Open to Abuse, Human Trafficking and Other Bad Actors 

      

    Read the Letter Here  

    Washington, DC – Congressmen Dan Goldman (NY-10) and Congressman Jason Crow (CO-06) led 96 of their colleagues in sending a letter to Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum urging them to immediately reinstate legal services for over 26,000 unaccompanied migrant children in the United States. 

    The Trump administration’s decision effectively denies tens of thousands of unaccompanied minors, many as young as two or three, a fair legal process and leaves them far more vulnerable to abuse, human trafficking, and harm. 

    “We write with great concern over the Administration’s decision to eliminate key federally-funded legal services for over 26,000 unaccompanied children in the United States. We urge immediate and full reinstatement of these services under the federal contract that provides for this longstanding, bipartisan program. The safety of these children hangs in the balance,” the Members wrote. 

    Eliminating legal services for unaccompanied minors is in clear violation of the Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act (TVPRA), a bipartisan law mandating the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) provide all unaccompanied children who are or were in HHS custody with proper legal representation to the greatest extent practicable. 

    “As the TVPRA reflects, it is all but impossible for these children – one of the world’s most vulnerable groups – to receive a fair legal process in complex and adversarial immigration proceedings without legal representation. The termination of services means that all too many two- and three-year-old children who do not comprehend what those proceedings even are will nonetheless face them alone,” the Members continued. 

    Attorneys play a critical role in safeguarding unaccompanied minors from trafficking and exploitation–notifying authorities of abuse, addressing safety needs, and investigating and prosecuting perpetrators. Eliminating legal services removes these safeguards and opens up unaccompanied minors to widespread harm. Additionally, attorneys make the immigration system far more efficient by lowering the number of required court hearings and expediting voluntary removal proceedings.  

    “With the safety of over twenty-six thousand unaccompanied children against traffickers, abusers, and other bad actors on the line, prompt renewal is imperative. Thank you for your consideration of this pressing matter,” the Members concluded. 

    Congressman Dan Goldman has worked tirelessly to ensure unaccompanied minors receive proper legal representation when navigating the U.S. immigration system. 

    Last Congress, Goldman helped push the Biden Administration’s Executive Office for Immigration Review’s (EOIR) to release new guidance for children’s immigration proceedings that ensured specialized children’s dockets in each immigration court that were held separate from adult cases and were overseen by dedicated judges.   
    The Biden Administration’s decision followed the introduction of Goldman’s Children’s Court Act to combat the immigration court backlog and strengthen due process rights for children. 
    Read the Letter Here or Below: 

     

    We write with great concern over the Administration’s decision to eliminate key federally-funded

    legal services for over 26,000 unaccompanied children in the United States. We urge immediate

    and full reinstatement of these services under the federal contract that provides for this

    longstanding, bipartisan program. The safety of these children hangs in the balance.

    Cancellation of vital legal services for unaccompanied children squarely conflicts with the

    Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act (TVPRA). That Act, which passed Congress

    on an overwhelmingly bipartisan basis, mandates that the Department of Health and Human

    Services (HHS) ensure counsel to the greatest extent practicable for unaccompanied children

    who are or were in HHS custody to “represent them in legal proceedings or matters and protect

    them from mistreatment, exploitation, and trafficking.” Stripping away attorneys from children

    in local communities will have the opposite effect as Congress directed and intended.

    As the TVPRA reflects, it is all but impossible for these children – one of the world’s most

    vulnerable groups – to receive a fair legal process in complex and adversarial immigration

    proceedings without legal representation. The termination of services means that all too many

    two- and three-year-old children who do not comprehend what those proceedings even are will

    nonetheless face them alone.

    The TVPRA also recognizes the critical importance of legal services to safeguarding

    unaccompanied children from trafficking and exploitation. Attorneys help identify indicators of

    such mistreatment in the first place, notify authorities as appropriate, and address immediate

    safety needs. Importantly, attorneys can aid children in serving as victim-witnesses in the

    investigation and prosecution of perpetrators. In many cases, unaccompanied children’s attorneys

    may be the only adults to whom those children feel safe disclosing information about abuse and

    other harm. Hollowing out the legal services contract therefore renders unaccompanied children

    significantly more vulnerable to human traffickers and other bad actors.

    As the Trump Administration moves to place unaccompanied children into removal proceedings

    on a substantially expanded scale,1 it is important to emphasize that attorneys are necessary to

    ensure that those children understand and meet associated legal requirements. Lacking counsel,

    many children will be unable to comprehend Notices to Appear for immigration court or how,

    when, and where to make their appearances. By contrast, 98 percent of migrant children with

    attorneys show for their hearings.2 Attorneys also ensure that unaccompanied children submit

    address update forms to the immigration court system and other immigration agencies upon

    changes of residence so that those agencies can properly send notifications to and remain in

    communication with these children.

    Amid a deeply backlogged immigration court system, attorneys cut down on the volume of

    needed court hearings and furnish explanations to children that optimize the efficiency of those

    hearings and other legal processes. Similarly, when unaccompanied children wish to return to

    their countries of origin, attorneys help them expeditiously undergo voluntary departure. Absent

    legal representation, such children may instead remain in the United States at length.

    We are gravely concerned that, despite the above considerations, the Administration recently

    terminated in substantial part the legal services contract for unaccompanied children, including

    the contract’s provision of legal representation to children otherwise on their own. With the

    safety of over 26,000 unaccompanied children against traffickers, abusers, and other bad actors

    on the line, prompt and full reinstatement of services under this contract is imperative. Thank

    you for your consideration of this pressing matter. 

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Update on Federal Threats to Social Security

    Source: US State of New York

    arlier today, Governor Kathy Hochul delivered remarks alongside Senator Kirsten Gillibrand regarding the Trump administration’s attack on the Social Security program and how New York’s seniors and families will be affected as a result of the President and Elon Musk’s efforts to close Social Security Administration offices and limit access to resources.

    VIDEO: The event is available to stream on YouTube here and TV quality video is available here (h.264, mp4).

    AUDIO: The Governor’s remarks are available in audio form here.

    PHOTOS: The Governor’s Flickr page has photos of the event here.

    A rush transcript of the Governor’s remarks is available below:

     Thank you, Senator. We are so fortunate here in New York to have you representing us in Washington — being that loud voice on behalf of the people that you care so deeply about: our seniors, in particular, but also, as you mentioned, there’s children affected and families. And, if there’s one thing you could always count on as an American your entire life, it is that what you started paying in for Social Security with your first teenage job, over a lifetime would be there when you need it.

    And now that promise has all been jeopardized because of Donald Trump’s administration and Elon Musk. Now, I’m going to just quote someone who once spent a lot of time in this city — he was our former Governor, Franklin Delano Roosevelt. When he became President and saw the crisis that unfolded over this country known as the Great Depression — it started when he was actually governor — back in 1935, he saw that there was a path forward to help regain the stability, give people that security that they would never slip into poverty again.

    He unfolded the Social Security program and what he said was we have a moral, legal and political right to ensure that these payments are always made. He set it up as a payroll tax, so he said, “No damn politician can ever scrap my Social Security program.” Now, maybe not a politician, but maybe he didn’t count on some billionaire from South Africa who’d be trying to scrap his program. Someone who actually called it a “Ponzi scheme.”

    When Americans heard that, chills went down their spines. This man has enormous power for an unelected official, and he is using it to destroy the very fabric of our safety nets — programs like Social Security. So, he has caused so much chaos and uncertainty. Just walk into this federal building — you can feel it, it’s palpable; the anxiety that the workers here who dedicate their lives to public service, not just here, but all across this country, are under siege. Why? Because they’re out there helping the people.

    That is the whole premise behind becoming a public servant, and those who work for Social Security know that there’s people who rely on them and not everybody knows how to go online and figure it out. I heard some seniors say, “My grandkids have to come over to help me do this.” That’s the reality we’re in right now.

    When phone calls aren’t answered, when offices are closed — the offices that have been closed in New York State already — that requires seniors who may not have easy access to get around to go from their community and travel across five to seven different counties. How are they going to get there if they need services in person?

    You gave out the numbers. Nearly 70,000 here in Albany County alone, but I’ll tell you, in New York, our priorities are different. We think it’s wrong to say seniors and people with disabilities have to travel a great distance to secure their benefits. We say it’s wrong to describe Social Security as a “Ponzi scheme,” and we say it’s wrong to jeopardize a safety net that has been there to make sure that our citizens never slip into poverty.

    So, we have leaders fighting for them, our citizens — Senator Gillibrand, we appreciate all her work — but there’s also seven other people in the State who need to hear about this, and those are your Republican members of Congress. They’re in the majority, they have the power. If seven members of the delegation from New York State — starting with Elise Stefanik all the way on down — go into the Speaker’s office, demand that there would be changes or you’ll hold up President Trump’s agenda.

    You have the power, and if you don’t use that power, then you are complicit in this attack on the American people. And so, citizens, residents, people who represent all of our elected officials here: Make sure our voices are heard, make sure our senior’s voices are heard and we have to stop the insanity of this attack on our people.

    Thank you very much.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: American Rebel Launches Nationwide Ad Campaign on March 31 with 30 Second TV Spot, Complemented by Digital Media Across Leading Websites, to Increase Exposure of the Company and its Products to Millions of Viewers

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Plans to Utilize Digital Ads and Traditional Television Spots

    Nashville, TN, March 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) (“American Rebel” or the “Company”), creator of American Rebel Beer (americanrebelbeer.com) and a designer, manufacturer, and marketer of branded safes, personal security and self-defense products and apparel (americanrebel.com), has announced that it will launch an ad campaign to raise awareness and exposure for the Company. The Company anticipates running traditional television spots on CNBC and Fox Business as well as utilizing digital ads that will appear on many top-tier financial advice and investor education websites with combined monthly traffic of over 300 million followers.

    “When I speak with individual investors and our customers, they often express amazement that American Rebel has accomplished what it has in such a short period of time,” said American Rebel CEO Andy Ross. “Part of our responsibility to our stockholders is to educate the broader investment community about the Company’s achievements. First of all, we’ve developed an incredible beer that is all natural with no corn syrup or rice extract. We’ve developed striking and unique packaging that is very identifiable. We’ve created strong awareness in the distributor community and reached significant distribution agreements in multiple states. We’re front and center in the entertainment district in Nashville where we’re told more beer is sold in this particular several square mile area than anywhere else in the world. This story needs to be shared far and wide.”

    American Rebel has developed the TV and Digital Marketing Campaign in partnership with Martini & Partners Advertising, LLC and Martini & Partners will manage the ad placements. TV spots and digital ads are expected to begin on Monday, March 31. For more information on American Rebel, go to americanrebelbeer.com/investor-relations.

    Company highlights include access to the largest co-packer in the country that has capacity to brew over 230,000,000 cases of beer annually for its customers, American Rebel Beer has an experienced team of alcohol industry professionals with over 100 years of industry experience, and American Rebel Beer benefits from support from its publicly-traded parent company, American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB).

    American Rebel has contracted with many leading beer distributors in the country, including Clark Distributing Co and Stagnaro Distributing in Kentucky; Bonbright Distributors, Tramonte Distributing Co and Stagnaro Distributing in Ohio; Dichello Distributors in Connecticut; Gray Eagle Distributors in Missouri; Adams Beverages in North Carolina, Best Brands in Tennessee, Standard Beverage in Kansas, Mahaska Bottling Co in Iowa and Clark Beverage Group in Mississippi. These industry-leading distributors are part of the Miller/Coors Network, the Anheuser Busch Network or are a major independent distributor.

    American Rebel Beer also utilizes the musical and media assets of its CEO, Andy Ross. Andy has performed for American Rebel Beer launch parties at Kid Rock’s in Nashville, The Toad in Connecticut and the MAPS Air Museum in North Canton, OH. An April launch party is scheduled for Bowling Green, KY to support American Rebel Beer’s launch in the state of Kentucky. The company also plans Rebel Light Nights throughout the country to support individual on-premise locations. One very important performance is scheduled at Fort Campbell, KY to celebrate the Army’s 250th anniversary at the home of the 101st Airborne – the Screaming Eagles.

    CEO Andy Ross has appeared on Fox & Friends on Fox News, and segments on Newsmax and OAN (One America Network) to share the American Rebel story. He has also appeared on numerous local morning show network television broadcasts in San Diego, CA; Las Vegas, NV; Tampa, FL; Nashville, TN; and Kansas City, MO and multiple podcasts and radio interviews.

    About American Rebel Light Beer

    Produced in partnership with AlcSource, American Rebel Light Beer (americanrebelbeer.com) is a domestic premium light lager celebrated for its exceptional quality and patriotic values. It stands out as America’s Patriotic, God-Fearing, Constitution-Loving, National Anthem-Singing, Stand Your Ground Beer.

    American Rebel Light is a Premium Domestic Light Lager Beer – All Natural, Crisp, Clean and Bold Taste with a Lighter Feel. With approximately 100 calories, 3.2 carbohydrates, and 4.3% alcoholic content per 12 oz serving, American Rebel Light Beer delivers a lighter option for those who love great beer but prefer a more balanced lifestyle. It’s all natural with no added supplements and importantly does not use corn, rice, or other sweeteners typically found in mass produced beers.

    About American Rebel Holdings, Inc.

    American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) has operated primarily as a designer, manufacturer and marketer of branded safes and personal security and self-defense products and has recently transitioned into the beverage industry through the introduction of American Rebel Beer. The Company also designs and produces branded apparel and accessories. To learn more, visit americanrebelbeer.com or americanrebel.com. For investor information, visit americanrebel.com/investor-relations.

    American Rebel Holdings, Inc.
    info@americanrebel.com

    American Rebel Beverages, LLC
    Todd Porter, President
    tporter@americanrebelbeer.com

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. American Rebel Holdings, Inc., (NASDAQ: AREB; AREBW) (the “Company,” “American Rebel,” “we,” “our” or “us”) desires to take advantage of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and is including this cautionary statement in connection with this safe harbor legislation. The words “forecasts” “believe,” “may,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “should,” “plan,” “could,” “target,” “potential,” “is likely,” “expect” and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements primarily on our current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy, and financial needs. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ from those in the forward-looking statements include benefits of Nationwide Ad Campaign, success and availability of the promotional activities and ad campaigns, our ability to effectively execute our business plan, and the Risk Factors contained within our filings with the SEC, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 and Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2024. Any forward-looking statement made by us herein speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

    Company Contact:
    tporter@americanrebelbeer.com
    info@americanrebel.com

    For Media Inquiries Contact:
    Matt@Precisionpr.co

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Euronext publishes its 2024 Universal Registration Document

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Euronext publishes its 2024 Universal Registration Document

    Amsterdam, Brussels, Dublin, Lisbon, Milan, Oslo and Paris – 28 March 2025 – Euronext, the leading pan-European market infrastructure, today announces that it has filed its 2024 Universal Registration Document, prepared in ESEF format (European Single Electronic Format), including the 2024 Annual Financial Statements and Directors’ Report to the Stichting Autoriteit Financiële Markten (the “AFM”), on 28 March 2025, as competent authority under Regulation (EU) 2017/1129.

    The 2024 Universal Registration Document has been filed in English and is available in ESEF format on Euronext’s website at:
    https://www.euronext.com/en/investor-relations/financial-information/financial-reports

    Printed copies of the official version filed to the AFM in ESEF format are available at the registered office of Euronext N.V.: Beursplein 5 1012 JW Amsterdam The Netherlands.

    CONTACTS  

    ANALYSTS & INVESTORS – ir@euronext.com

    Investor Relations        Aurélie Cohen                 

            Judith Stein        +33 6 15 23 91 97          

    MEDIA – mediateam@euronext.com 

    Europe        Aurélie Cohen         +33 1 70 48 24 45   

            Andrea Monzani         +39 02 72 42 62 13 

    Belgium        Marianne Aalders         +32 26 20 15 01                 

    France, Corporate        Flavio Bornancin-Tomasella        +33 1 70 48 24 45                 

    Ireland        Andrea Monzani         +39 02 72 42 62 13                 

    Italy         Ester Russom         +39 02 72 42 67 56                 

    The Netherlands        Marianne Aalders         +31 20 721 41 33                 

    Norway         Cathrine Lorvik Segerlund        +47 41 69 59 10                 

    Portugal         Sandra Machado        +351 91 777 68 97                

                   

    About Euronext  

    Euronext is the leading European capital market infrastructure, covering the entire capital markets value chain, from listing, trading, clearing, settlement and custody, to solutions for issuers and investors. Euronext runs MTS, one of Europe’s leading electronic fixed income trading markets, and Nord Pool, the European power market. Euronext also provides clearing and settlement services through Euronext Clearing and its Euronext Securities CSDs in Denmark, Italy, Norway and Portugal.

    As of December 2024, Euronext’s regulated exchanges in Belgium, France, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway and Portugal host over 1,800 listed issuers with around €6 trillion in market capitalisation, a strong blue-chip franchise and the largest global centre for debt and fund listings. With a diverse domestic and international client base, Euronext handles 25% of European lit equity trading. Its products include equities, FX, ETFs, bonds, derivatives, commodities and indices.

    For the latest news, go to euronext.com or follow us on X and LinkedIn.

    Disclaimer

    This press release is for information purposes only: it is not a recommendation to engage in investment activities and is provided “as is”, without representation or warranty of any kind. While all reasonable care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the content, Euronext does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness. Euronext will not be held liable for any loss or damages of any nature ensuing from using, trusting or acting on information provided. No information set out or referred to in this publication may be regarded as creating any right or obligation. The creation of rights and obligations in respect of financial products that are traded on the exchanges operated by Euronext’s subsidiaries shall depend solely on the applicable rules of the market operator. All proprietary rights and interest in or connected with this publication shall vest in Euronext. This press release speaks only as of this date. Euronext refers to Euronext N.V. and its affiliates. Information regarding trademarks and intellectual property rights of Euronext is available at www.euronext.com/terms-use.

    © 2025, Euronext N.V. – All rights reserved. 

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Equasens: 2024 annual results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Villers-lès-Nancy, 28 March 2025 – 6:00 p.m. (CET)

    PRESS RELEASE

    2024 annual results

    • Full-year results adversely affected by difficult economic conditions in H1 combined with continuing investment efforts:
      • Revenue: €216.8m (-1.4%)
      • Current Operating Income: €45.1m (-19.2%)
      • Net profit attributable to Group shareholders: €36.2m (-23.0%)
    • At the same time, profit margins remained high, and even improved over the year:
      • Current operating income / Revenue: 20.8% on a reported basis (H1: 19.3% and H2: 22.3%)
      • Solid balance sheet structure: financial surplus remains strong at €79.5m
      • Annual dividend proposal: €1.25 per share
    • 2025 outlook:
      • Return to revenue growth of close to 10% by the end of 2025
      • Deployment of new solutions integrating artificial intelligence
      • New cloud solutions generating recurring revenues
      • Strategy of external growth in France and Europe maintained
    2024 RESULTS (€m) 2023
    Reported basis    		 2024
    Reported basis    		 Change / Reported basis of which External growth
    Revenue 219.7 216.8 -3.0 -1.4% 7.2
    Current Operating Income (COI) 55.8 45.1 -10.7 -19.2% 0.1
    Net Profit 48.9 37.8 -11.1 -22.7%  
    Net Profit attributable to the Group 47.0 36.2 -10.8 -23.0%  

    On 28 March 2025, the Board of Directors of EQUASENS, chaired by Thierry CHAPUSOT, examined and approved the financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2024 in the presence of the Statutory Auditors and Sustainability Auditor. The audit procedures for the consolidated accounts have been completed. The auditors’ report will be issued after the management report has been reviewed and the procedures for filing the annual report have been completed.

    2024 COI (€m) / Division 2023
    Reported basis    		 2024
    Reported basis    		 Change / Reported basis of which
    External growth
    Pharmagest 36.7 30.7 -6.0 -16.4% 0.2
    Axigate Link 10.4 10.2 -0.2 – 2.3%  
    e-Connect 6.7 4.8 -1.9 -28.0%  
    Medical Solutions 2.2 0.2 -2.0 -92.0% -0.1
    Fintech -0.2 -0.8 -0.6 –  
    Current Operating Income 55.8 45.1 -10.7 -19.2% 0.1

    2024 highlights

    • January: Acquisition of a 70% majority stake in DIGIPHARMACIE, an expert in digitisation and management of pharmacy supplier invoices. In November, the company was registered subject to conditions for inclusion in the French electronic invoicing reporting platform (Plateforme de Dématérialisation Partenaire or PDP);
    • In December: Acquisition of a 90% stake in CALIMED, a practice management software editor for private practice surgeons, general practitioners and specialists.

    Detailed Analysis by Division

    PHARMAGEST Division: a contraction in earnings reflecting lower like-for-like sales and investments to strengthen teams in Europe (COI/Sales: 18.8% in 2024 and 20.4% for H2 alone)

    The decline in the Division’s operating income was mainly attributable to the unfavourable economic climate in the first half of the year, which led to a sharp drop in sales in France in the configuration and hardware segment.
    In this context, the Division’s business development strategy, focused on acquiring new customers and rolling out new software and hardware solutions, helped contribute to renewed momentum in the second half of the year.
    And without calling into question the efforts to ramp up teams in the first half, cost rationalization measures were implemented which contributed to a profit margin of 21.1% in H2 for historical activities.
    It should be noted that the temporary dilutive effect from the most recent changes in scope on the Division’s average profitability is 0.7% in 2024.

    AXIGATE LINK Division: a consistently high rate of profitability (COI/Sales: 31.8% in 2024 and 34.8% for H2 alone)

    The Division delivered a significant performance in H2 driven by growth in revenue in most of its businesses. This growth makes it possible to absorb the costs of deploying new SaaS solutions (TitanLink) and extending the homecare service offering (DomiLink) for the relevant regional care coordination entities (CRT).

    E-CONNECT division: current operating income declined in response to lower sales (COI/Sales: 42.9% in 2024 and 40.5% for H2 alone)

    As previously reported, the Division’s sales and earnings were boosted in 2023 by the announcement of the discontinuation of Application Reader Terminal sales and strong demand from non-Group software publishers in response.

    Despite this less favourable context, by adopting rigorous cost control and maintaining steady sales with Group software publishers, the division’s profit remained high.

    MEDICAL SOLUTIONS Division: a year of transition from the Ségur programme to a focus on new software solutions (COI/Sales: 2.2% in 2024 and 4.4% for H2 alone)

    Following the roll-out of MédiStory 4 and the Ségur programme, the Division is building a new business model based on a strategy of cross-selling and recurring revenues.
    The cost of developing new software solutions, notably the LOQUii AI voice consultation assistant, launched in Q4 2024, as well as the overhaul of distribution channels, are temporarily impacting the Division’s profitability.

    FINTECH Division: a deterioration in operating income in the second half of the year (COI/Sales: -38.1% in 2024 and -73.4% in H2 alone)

    After a rather encouraging first half, the default of a business contributor forced the Division to book a provision for impairment of €0.5m.

    2024 consolidated balance sheet highlights

    • Cash flow after interest and tax came to €46.9m.
      • In addition to dividends, financial resources are mainly devoted to R&D investments, IT infrastructure and external growth (€21.1m) and debt reduction (€12.6m).
      • Despite these significant investments, the financial surplus remains favourably oriented at €79.5m, compared with €79.3m at 12/31/2023, giving the Group considerable autonomy and investment capacity to support its growth strategy.
      • It should be noted that IFRS 16 lease liabilities and put options for minority shareholders are now recorded under “Other liabilities”.

    Proposed dividend

    The Board of Directors will propose the payment of a gross dividend of €1.25 per share for fiscal 2024 at the Annual General Meeting on June 25, 2025.

    2025 outlook

    Backed by investments in R&D, infrastructure and human capital both in France and in Europe, the Group maintains its target of a return to revenue growth in 2025, with positive momentum in H1 followed by a marked acceleration in H2, with anticipated nominal growth of close to 10%.

    This growth trajectory will be bolstered by:

    • Innovation and Artificial Intelligence as drivers of differentiation, for example LOQUii or id. genius;
    • The gradual transition of new solutions to a SaaS business model to boost recurring revenues;
    • The deployment of new high value-added solutions, such as id. express, id. pay, or solutions for large-scale deployment, like Kap-eCV;
    • The Group’s patient-focused strategy and multi-professional interoperability, with PandaLab and Multimeds.

    While profitability remains solid, it will continue to be impacted by the ongoing investments to prepare for this growth trajectory, which will be based on the Group’s ability to deliver innovative, value-creating offerings to its customers.

    Financial calendar:

    • 31 March 2025: Presentation of FY 2024 results
    • 12 May 2025: Publication of Q1 2025 revenue
    • 25 June 2025: Annual General Meeting
    • 31 July 2025: Publication of Q2 2025 revenue
    • 26 September 2025: 2025 H1 results
    • 5 November 2025: Publication of Q3 2025 revenue
    • 5 February 2026: Publication of FY 2025 revenue

    About Equasens Group

    Founded over 35 years ago, Equasens Group, a leader in digital healthcare solutions, today employs over 1.300 people across Europe.
    Equasens Group’s specialised business applications facilitate the day-to-day work of healthcare professionals and their teams, working in private practice, collaborative medical structures or healthcare establishments. The Group also provides comprehensive support to healthcare professionals in the transformation of their profession by developing electronic equipment, digital solutions and healthcare robotics, as well as data hosting, financing and training adapted to their specific needs.
    And reflecting the spirit of its tagline “Technology for a More Human Experience”, the Group is a leading provider of interoperability solutions designed to improve coordination between healthcare professionals, their communications and data exchange resulting in better patient care and a more efficient and secure healthcare system.

    Listed on Euronext Paris™ – Compartment B

    Indexes: MSCI GLOBAL SMALL CAP – GAÏA Index 2020 – CAC®SMALL and CAC®All-Tradable
    Included in the Euronext Tech Leaders segment and the European Rising Tech label

    Eligible for the Deferred Settlement Service (“Service à Réglement Différé” – SRD) and equity savings accounts invested in small and mid-caps (PEA-PME).
    ISIN: FR 0012882389 – Ticker Code: EQS

    Get all the news about Equasens Group www.equasens.com and on LinkedIn

    CONTACTS

    Analyst and Investor Relations:
    Chief Administrative and Financial Officer: Frédérique Schmidt
    Tel: +33 (0)3 83 15 90 67 – frederique.schmidt@equasens.com

    Financial communications agency:
    FIN’EXTENSO – Isabelle Aprile

    Tel.: +33 (0)6 17 38 61 78 – i.aprile@finextenso.fr

    Forward-looking statements
    This press release contains forward-looking statements that are not guarantees of future performance and are based on current opinions, forecasts and assumptions, including, but not limited to, assumptions about Equasens’ current and future strategy and the environment in which Equasens operates. These involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause actual results, performance or achievements, or industry results or other events, to materially differ from those expressed in or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include those detailed in Chapter 3 “Risk factors” of the Universal Registration Document filed with the French financial market authority (Autorité des Marchés Financiers or AMF) on April 29, 2024 under number D.24-0366. These forward-looking statements are valid only as of the date of this press release.

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why we love the escapism of apocalyptic dramas

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Scott Jones, Assistant Professor of Marketing, University of Birmingham

    Disney’s streaming hit Paradise – a political thriller that sees the murder of a former president in a peaceful community – leans into dystopian themes around apocalypse survival and living in a sealed world. The drama joins an growing array of TV shows and films exploring similar ideas.

    In Apple TV’s compelling drama Silo, civilisation has resorted to living and working deep in an underground storage facility as a means to protect humanity from the wasteland above.

    Michelle and Barack Obama’s Netflix thriller Leave The World Behind depicts the US facing chaos and unrest as a cybersecurity attack takes down the country’s entire technological infrastructure, leading to catastrophic scenes of fallen cities on fire.

    Similar tropes appear in Zero Day, starring Rober De Niro as a former president tasked with finding out who is behind a cyber attack that has resulted in the deaths of thousands of people.

    Looking for something good? Cut through the noise with a carefully curated selection of the latest releases, live events and exhibitions, straight to your inbox every fortnight, on Fridays. Sign up here.

    And then there is The End, a climate-crisis musical starring Tilda Swinton that dips into the strange world of a wealthy family living deep underground in a luxurious bunker, decades after an environmental catastrophe has hit the earth.

    Dystopian dramas are clearly in vogue right now, but films and TV dramas have often reflected the fears and anxieties of their times. A Clockwork Orange (1971) portrayed the class conflict and wanton violence of the 1970s. TV series Threads (1984) tapped into fears of a nuclear attack. Ghost in the Shell (1995) focused on identity in an increasingly technology-obsessed world. And Children of Men (2006) centred on the bleak terror of a world without children.

    More recently, The Walking Dead (2010 onwards) focused on what it means to cling onto humanity in an unrelenting world, while Squid Game (2021-) is a dystopian reflection of capitalism exploring the circumstances that drive desperate people to participate in a deadly competition for money.

    My research explores cultural aspects of consumption and one of my research interests is forms of escapism, mainly provided by films, television and video games. A question that sometimes arises is whether we actually desire dystopia.

    Well, streaming giants might argue it’s good for business. Zero Day has remained in Netflix’s top-ten chart for the past month, Apple has renewed Silo for two more seasons, and Disney just ordered a second season of Paradise. The third and final season of Squid Game will air in June – previous seasons have broken Netflix records for downloads and views.

    This trend for dystopian movies and TV shows underscores the public appetite for this content, despite its alarmingly prescient feel and tone. Paradoxically, this seems to starkly contrast with the notion that people turn to video games, movies and boxset binges to escape the mundanity of everyday life and the wearisome realities that we must contend with.

    In my research with colleagues at Lancaster University, we explored these issues: when reality is disrupted in some unexpected way, our beliefs and assumptions about how we think the world should operate are challenged.

    Drawing on interviews, we explored participants’ experiences of bingeing TV shows against a backdrop of changing real-world events and the impact these changes had on their ability to suspend their disbelief. The people we spoke to turned to culture for a sense-making escape.

    Escapism here is less about feeling abandoned and more about a search for hope and rediscovering the coordinates for our existence. Dystopian narratives might provide some food for thought: how would we cope if the apocalyptic events portrayed on screen were to really occur?

    TV dramas like Zero Day and films like Leave the World Behind identify and zoom in on the terrors and anxieties of the present: AI and the “rise of the machine”, war and global instability, profound inequality, disinformation, online hostility and cyber threats. However, in doing so, these dramas can also exemplify what might be required to transform or alter a dystopian reality, meaning as viewers we engage in a form of “critical dystopia”.

    Our appetite for dystopian narratives could derive from the idea that we never imagine ourselves to be the subject of some major catastrophic event. In a discussion about dystopia, critical marketing academics Alan Bradshaw, James Fitchett and Joel Hietanen explored how we often equate dystopian events and imaginings as happening to others, not necessarily us.

    This is aided by the fact that we often occupy the role of a distant onlooker, not the perspective of someone living under the catastrophic events being portrayed.

    Bradshaw, Fitchett and Hietanen argue that much of our everyday existence consists of fairly mundane encounters and repetitive experiences. As an antidote to this safe ordinariness, we are drawn to extreme versions of life, and harbour repressed fantasies and desires of destruction and catastrophe. So we indulge in dystopian desires and impulses, albeit at a distance or vicariously through video games, movies, books and TV shows from the comfort of our sofas.

    Finally, some people seem to find a sense of enjoyment in imagining their own ruin – what is described as a “death drive”, that simultaneously contradicts yet co-exists with self-preservation instincts. Philosopher and cultural theorist Slavoj Žižek suggests that there are people who derive pleasure from dystopian narratives, fascinated at the prospect of their own annihilation.

    However, through optimistic endings, dystopian dramas imply that we may be able to intervene, prevent or even reverse the alarming consequences. We then indulge in fantasies of a new utopia in an attempt to return to our known reality, or receive a prophetic nudge in the direction of a more improved world to replace the dystopia.

    In this case, viewers of edge-of-your-seat dramas like Zero Day and Paradise search for hope and relief, and as detached observers fantasise about how catastrophe and self-annihilation can be paused or even better, averted.

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

    – ref. Why we love the escapism of apocalyptic dramas – https://theconversation.com/why-we-love-the-escapism-of-apocalyptic-dramas-253063

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Elevate Your Business With Galaxy S25

    Source: Samsung

    In today’s fast-paced and demanding work environment, businesses are looking for ways to simplify how they perform complex tasks. These intricate tasks can vary and involve anything from navigating multiple steps or business processes, dependencies, resources, stakeholders and uncertainties.
     
    Samsung Galaxy S25 series has now set the standard for what an AI-enabled phone can do as a true AI companion. Galaxy AI capabilities are now able to integrate AI agents allowing businesses to perform complex tasks across apps, services and even devices.
     
    Together with Google, Samsung is reshaping the future of Android and evolving it into the revolutionary AI-integrated OS1. This integrated collaboration is able to unlock powerful AI experiences that integrate diverse AI agents, such as Bixby, Gauss, Gemini, Chat GPT and Co-pilot. Samsung worked closely with Google to provide this latest, most cutting-edge AI innovations on Galaxy S25 series through One UI 72.
     
    This partnership, which started from a very early development stage, introduces native integration of Gemini on Galaxy devices for the first time and transforms the Galaxy AI experience to be more intuitive through multimodal capabilities. Businesses can now look forward to Gemini – an innovative feature that performs seamless actions across multiple apps, so every task takes fewer steps.
     
    To top this off – Intuitive, personalised AI is redefining how Samsung interacts with the world with the most natural, context-aware and personalised experiences. The Galaxy S25 series now also comes with up to six-months free access to Gemini Advanced. The direct business benefit of Gemini Advanced feature is that it comes with Samsung’s most capable AI models and priority access to the newest features like Gems, custom AI experts for any topic and Deep Research, which acts as your personal AI research assistant.
     
    It is very clear from these ground-breaking business features that Samsung aims to deliver an optimised AI experience by leveraging a variety of these incredible AI agents effectively. The Galaxy AI platform introduced with Galaxy S25 series has now been optimised for AI from the framework level, allowing various AI agents to effortlessly control multiple apps. These AI agents are able to work seamlessly in the background to perform tasks tailored to the user’s needs, simplifying complex business tasks.
     
    Many of these innovative Gemini features included in Galaxy S25 were developed to ensure an optimised user experience – thanks to the incredible collaboration that was formed with Google from the early stages. Bixby, Samsung’s voice-based AI agent specialised in device control, will now also play a pivotal role in advancing Home AI by enabling more intuitive and effortless control of Galaxy devices, as well as seamless connectivity and management of Samsung products like TVs and home appliances.
     
    But, it does not end there. Samsung knows just how important data privacy and safety is to businesses. That is why it has also built a broader AI ecosystems with AI-integrated OS. The cloud-based AI security features, enhanced in collaboration with Google, uphold the highest standards of data privacy and give you the choice to enable or opt out of Google Gemini.
     

     
    Users can now choose whether to enable Google Gemini or opt out based on their preferences. This cloud-based AI security feature now ensures that user input data is immediately deleted as soon as the output is created. No personal information is accessed without authorisation.
     
    And then there’s the remarkably seamless actions across apps/Gemini Live feature that is able to achieve the most cutting-edge AI experiences on Galaxy S25 series. In this case as well, Samsung has worked closely with partners that include both Google and Qualcomm to enhance AI capabilities and boost device performance. Together, these partners have been able to bring Gemini and Gemini Live to Galaxy S25 series, making it simpler for businesses to not only perform complex tasks, but also be context-aware.
     
    Now, there’s also the Multimodal Search – a new mobile search experience based on Galaxy S25 series’ capacity to interpret text, voice, images, video and even gestures. Businesses can now stop searching and instead be able to start finding more of what they want. The all-enhanced Circle3 to Search feature now understands the context of everything on your screen to anticipate your needs. It transforms the way we use devices with a new conversational, multimodal user interface, now introduced on Galaxy S25 series.
     
    Galaxy AI is now integrated naturally into every touch point of the interface and with One UI 7, Samsung has created an experience where every interaction feels effortless. Also, complemented by AI Select that is built mainly for contextual search – it now suggests solutions, next actions and useful information based on what’s on your screen – all of this without having to manually activate relevant apps.
     
    And furthermore, the barrier-breaking communication capability that is able to record and analyse calls with on-device transcript and AI summary for calls + on-device transcript and AI summary – allows businesses to communicate freely across countries with increased language support. And with the introduction of Samsung’s innovative Galaxy AI – this comprehensive artificial system is now able to not only enhance but elevate individual and business experiences across their Galaxy devices.
     
    Importantly, Samsung’s Galaxy AI vision remains. The global electronics giant seeks to democratise the benefits of mobile AI innovation so that its business users can enjoy barrier-free communication, maximise their productivity, unleash creativity and better track their health in their daily lives.
     
    Availability
    The Galaxy S25 series will be available for official retail sale in South Africa starting 14 February 2025. The Galaxy S25 Ultra comes in the following colours4 in Titanium Silverblue, Titanium Black, Titanium Whitesilver and Titanium Gray. Galaxy S25 and Galaxy S25+ will be available in Navy, Silver Shadow, Icyblue and Mint4.
     
    South African customers can pre-order the Galaxy S25 series through Samsung’s official online store, Samsung Shop App and participating retail partners.
     

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Samsung Galaxy A56 5G, Galaxy A36 5G and Galaxy A26 5G Are Now Available in South Africa

    Source: Samsung

    Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. has announced the local availability of the Galaxy A56 5G, Galaxy A36 5G, and Galaxy A26 5G, marking a significant step toward opening up new possibilities for even more users through advanced mobile AI technology. This is the first Galaxy A series to feature Awesome Intelligence – a comprehensive and intuitive mobile AI experience that offers powerful and fun AI-powered tools[1] for easy search and amazing visual experiences.
     
    “As Samsung continues to lead the way in mobile AI, we are committed to bringing its power to even more users, providing new ways to explore and capture the world around them through Awesome Intelligence,” said TM Roh, President and Head of Mobile eXperience Business at Samsung Electronics. “With the launch of the new Galaxy A series, we look forward to more people benefitting from smart and fun mobile experiences that unleash their creativity, all while ensuring the security and reliability users expect from us.”
     
    The latest Galaxy A series brings users Galaxy’s fan-favourite AI-powered features. Enhanced Circle to Search with Google[2] offers a seamless way to find answers, enabling users to instantly bring information to their fingertips with a simple gesture. With Object Eraser[3], users can easily remove unwanted elements from photos for a cleaner, more polished look. For those who enjoy customising their photos even further, Filters[4] can create unique effects inspired by their favourite images. Available only on Galaxy A56 5G within the Galaxy A series, Best Face[5] allows users to select the best expressions from multiple frames and combine them into a single photo so everyone looks their best.
     
    Galaxy A56 5G and Galaxy A36 5G feature a 6.7-inch[6] FHD+ Super AMOLED display with a peak brightness of up to 1200 nits[7], offering a vivid and immersive viewing experience in any environment. A 5,000mAh battery powers all three models, allowing users to enjoy every moment for longer. Galaxy A56 5G and Galaxy A36 5G deliver enhanced performance, with a larger vapor chamber[8] that ensures smoother multitasking, gaming and video playback. The new Galaxy A series also provides an extra, fortified layer of device safety, transparency and user choice with Samsung Knox Vault. Additionally, these devices are built for long-term use and peace of mind, with support for up to six generations of OS upgrades and six years of security updates.
     
    The new Galaxy A series is available through mobile carriers, retailers, Samsung.com/za, and Samsung Shop App, and comes in a range of stylish colour options[9]. Galaxy A56 5G is available in Awesome Lightgray, Awesome Graphite, Awesome Olive and Awesome Pink. Galaxy A36 5G comes in Awesome Lavender, Awesome Black, Awesome White and Awesome Lime. Galaxy A26 5G is available in Black, White, Mint and Peach Pink.

    For more information about Galaxy A56 5G, Galaxy A36 5G, and Galaxy A26 5G, please visit: Samsung Newsroom, Samsung Mobile Press and Samsung.com.
     
    [1] Samsung Account login may be required to use certain features. Samsung does not make any promises, assurances or guarantees as to the accuracy, completeness or reliability of the output provided by Intelligent features. Availability of features may vary depending on the region/country, OS/One UI version, device model, and carrier.
    [2] Service availability may vary by country, language, and device model. Requires an internet connection. Users may need to update Android and Google app to the latest version. Results may vary depending on visual or audio matches. Accuracy of results is not guaranteed. Works on compatible apps and surfaces, and with ambient music only. Will not identify music coming through headphones or if phone volume is off.
    [3] Results may vary based on the images and the object the user is trying to remove.
    [4] Filters feature is unavailable in the 3:4 64MP aspect ratio setting. Its availability might differ based on device model and software version. Filter availability may vary based on resolution and aspect ratio settings.
    [5] Accuracy of results is not guaranteed. Best Face feature is available exclusively on the Galaxy A56 5G device from the Galaxy A series. Best Face is only available for photos taken with Motion Photo turned on. The feature does not generate new facial expressions but selects from frames within the Motion Photo video clip. It can recognise up to five people per image and suggest up to three alternative expressions per person.
    [6] Measured diagonally, the screen size is 6.7″ in the full rectangle and 6.5″ accounting for the rounded corners. Actual viewable area is less due to the rounded corners and the camera hole.
    [7] 1,200 nits in High Brightness Mode (HBM).
    [8] Compared to previous generation.
    [9] Colour and model availability may vary depending on country, region or carrier.
     

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI: Awilco Drilling PLC: Interim Dividend Decision and Future Plan

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Awilco Drilling PLC (‘Awilco Drilling’ or the ‘Company’) announces that its Board of Directors has resolved an interim dividend payment payable in Q2 2025 of USD 2.06 per share. The shares will trade ex-dividend on 1 April 205, the record date is 2 April 2025, and the payment date is on or around 11 April 2025.

    The Company has considered several strategic alternatives, but the investment opportunities have not met the required thresholds for the Board to recommend pursuing them. As the Company no longer has any operational business, the Board has decided that it is in the shareholders’ best interest to have the Company’s capital returned to them, apply for delisting of the Company from Euronext Growth Oslo and, lastly, have the Company liquidated. The Board has duly considered and concluded that the amount proposed paid as interim dividend is appropriate and leaves sufficient funds in the Company to pay for the planned delisting and the subsequently planned liquidation.

    Based on the abovementioned, the Board of Directors has also resolved to call for an extraordinary General Meeting to be held on 16 April 2025. The purpose of this meeting is to pass the necessary resolution so the Company can apply for delisting from Euronext Growth Oslo. It is expected that another extraordinary General Meeting will be called in April/May this year to vote on the proposed Company liquidation.

    Aberdeen, 28 March 2025

    For further information please contact:

    Eric Jacobs, CEO of Awilco Drilling PLC
    Phone: +47 9529 2271

    Cathrine Haavind, Investor Relations of Awilco Drilling PLC
    Phone: +47 9342 8464
    Email: ch@awilcodrilling.com

    This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Lánasjóður sveitarfélaga – Undirritun aðalmiðlarasamninga

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Lánasjóður sveitarfélaga ohf. hefur gengið frá samningum við aðalmiðlara í tengslum við útgáfu skuldabréfa Lánasjóðsins og viðskiptavakt á skuldabréfaflokkunum LSS150434, LSS151155 og LSS 39 0303. Markmiðið með samningunum er að styrkja aðgang Lánasjóðsins að lánsfé og efla verðmyndun á eftirmarkaði.

    Frá 1. apríl 2025 hafa fimm fjármálastofnanir heimild til að kalla sig: “Aðalmiðlara með skuldabréf Lánasjóðsins”. Þær eru: Arion banki hf, Íslandsbanki hf., Landsbankinn hf., Kvika banki hf. og Fossar Fjárfestingarbanki hf.

    Helstu atriði samningsins eru:

    • Aðalmiðlarar hafa einir aðgang að útboðum Lánasjóðs sveitarfélaga ohf.
    • Aðalmiðlari skuldbindur sig til að setja fram markaðsmyndandi tilboð í útboðum skuldabréfa lánasjóðsins að lágmarki 100 m.kr. að nafnverði samanlagt í þá flokka sem í boði eru í hverju útboði, að hámarki þó einu sinni í hverjum mánuði.
    • Aðalmiðlarar hafa einir aðgang að sérstökum verðbréfalánum sem Lánasjóðurinn veitir.
    • Aðalmiðlari er viðskiptavaki á eftirmarkaði fyrir þrjá skuldabréfaflokka Lánasjóðsins og setur fram kaup- og sölutilboð að lágmarki (nafnv.) sem hér segir:
      • LSS150434: 40 m.kr.
      • LSS151155: 20 m.kr.
      • LSS 39 0303: 40 m.kr.
    • Aðalmiðlari skuldbindur sig til þess að verðmunur kaup- og sölutilboða hans fari ekki yfir 1% fyrir LSS150434 og LSS 39 0303 en 1,25% fyrir LSS151155.
    • Aðalmiðlara er skylt að endurnýja tilboð sín innan 15 mínútna frá því að þeim hefur verið tekið. Ef aðalmiðlari á viðskipti á einum viðskiptadegi fyrir samtals 200 m.kr. að nafnvirði með þá flokka lánasjóðsins sem viðskiptavakt er með er honum heimilt að víkja út frá hámarksmun kaup- og sölutilboða.
    • Samningarnir gilda frá 1. apríl 2025 til 31. mars 2026.

    Nánari upplýsingar veitir Óttar Guðjónsson, framkvæmdastjóri, ottar@lanasjodur.is / s. 515 4949 

    Attachments

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Latin Music Talent Agency and Its CEO Found Guilty of Violating U.S. Sanctions by Doing Business with Cartel-Linked Concert Promoter

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    LOS ANGELES – The CEO of a Latin music conglomerate and his talent agency were found guilty by a jury today of conspiring to violate the Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Designation Act by conducting business with a Guadalajara-based concert promoter with ties to Mexican drug cartels.

    José Ángel Del Villar, 44, of Huntington Beach, the CEO of Del Records and its related talent agency Del Entertainment Inc., was found guilty of one count of conspiracy to transact in property of specially designated narcotics traffickers in violation of the Kingpin Act and 10 counts of violating the Kingpin Act.

    Co-defendant Del Entertainment also was found guilty of all 11 counts of which Del Villar was convicted.

    According to evidence presented at a nine-day trial, in April 2018, the defendants did business with Jesús Pérez Alvear, a.k.a. “Chucho,” of Guadalajara, Mexico, a music promoter who controlled Gallistica Diamante, a.k.a. Ticket Premier. Pérez promoted concerts for Del Entertainment in Mexico until March 2019.

    The U.S. Treasury Department listed Pérez and his company as “specially designated narcotics traffickers” under the Kingpin Act on April 6, 2018, after concluding he facilitated money laundering for the Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG) and the Los Cuinis drug trafficking organization. The Kingpin Act prevents people in the United States from conducting business with sanctioned persons and entities.

    Even though Del Villar and Del Entertainment were aware that it was illegal to engage in transactions or dealings with Pérez, they willfully did business with him by continuing to have a Del Entertainment musical artist perform at concerts in which Pérez and Del Entertainment had a financial interest.

    For example, on April 19, 2018, FBI agents approached a well-known musician and explicitly told him about Pérez’s designation under the Kingpin Act and how that prohibited him from conducting business with Pérez and performing concerts that Pérez promoted.

    On April 28, 2018, the musician performed at a music concert which Pérez organized. Del Villar’s credit card was used to pay for a private jet that brought the musician from Van Nuys Airport to the performance in Aguascalientes, Mexico.

    On multiple other occasions in 2018 and 2019, Pérez and Del Villar continued to do business by arranging for the musician to perform at concerts in Mexico – including Mexicali and San José Iturbide, Guanajuato.

    “The defendants here chose to get into business with an individual they knew had ties to the CJNG and had been designated a narcotics trafficker under the Kingpin Act,” said Acting United States Attorney Joseph McNally. “Cartels and transnational criminal organizations cause immeasurable harm to our country. We are using every tool to eliminate these organizations and will prosecute those that do business with cartels.”

    “Doing business with government-sanctioned individuals is illegal and can have very serious consequences,” said Akil Davis, the Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office. “Today’s guilty verdict sends a message to music industry associates and others who engage in business with those sanctioned for laundering money for Mexican drug cartels will not be tolerated by the FBI, nor our partners at the IRS and the United States Attorney’s Office.”

    United States District Judge Maame Ewusi-Mensah Frimpong scheduled an August 15 sentencing hearing, at which time Del Villar will face a statutory maximum sentence of 30 years in federal prison for each count. Del Entertainment will face a sentence of five years of probation and a fine of $10 million for each count.

    Co-defendant Luca Scalisi, 58, of West Hollywood, has pleaded not guilty to the charges against him in this case and is scheduled to be tried separately in July 2025.

    Co-defendant Pérez, who previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to transact in property of specially designated narcotics traffickers, was murdered in Mexico in December 2024. 

    The FBI and IRS Criminal Investigation investigated this matter. The Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control provided significant assistance in this matter.

    Assistant United States Attorneys Benedetto L. Balding and Alexander B. Schwab of the Corporate and Securities Fraud Strike Force, and Kathrynne N. Seiden of the Terrorism and Export Crimes Section, prosecuted this case, with substantial assistance from the International Narcotics, Money Laundering, and Racketeering Section.

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

    This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach.  Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: My documentary Motherboard follows my first 21 years of motherhood – these films about single mums inspired me

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Victoria Mapplebeck, Professor in Digital Arts, Royal Holloway University of London

    On a warm and sunny May bank holiday in 2003, I had one of those rare days that truly changes your life forever. I sat in my bathroom, hands shaking as two pink lines emerged on the pregnancy test I was holding.

    I was 38, single and broke. This pregnancy was the result of a brief relationship which had only amounted to four dates. Shell-shocked as I was, I laughed out loud in a moment of joy I knew there was no coming back from. Nine months later I gave birth to my son Jim.

    My old Nokia still holds the text thread of the three years I was in touch with Jim’s dad. My messages began “I had a great time last night”, and ended “Have you got the results yet?” He had requested a paternity test when Jim was two. A week later we both received the results. The probability that he was Jim’s biological dad was 99.99%. This news prompted a final reply from Jim’s dad: “Yes, I got the results … I’m moving to Spain.”

    A clip from the author’s film, Motherboard.

    We didn’t hear from him again for over a decade. Unable to combine motherhood with my previous career as a TV director, I quit my job overnight. I got a job teaching filmmaking and was out of the film industry for over a decade.

    I began filming my son Jim as he grew up. I recorded hundreds of hours of footage, capturing each twist and turn in Jim’s life, from the thumbs-up he gave me during my first scan, to his first day at college.

    Jim is 21 now. Filmed over 20 years, my feature documentary Motherboard charts the highs and lows of solo motherhood. It explores how Jim and I navigated him meeting his dad for the first time at 13, closely followed by my breast cancer diagnosis and Jim’s party-hard late teens, when tempers frayed and doors slammed.

    When I was making Motherboard I burnt through any books, films and TV that I could find, exploring solo motherhood. Many repeated the same old tabloid cliches and movie tropes of single mums. They were victims or martyrs, their only moment of joy watching the sun set over their estate before the bailiffs turned up.

    Looking for something good? Cut through the noise with a carefully curated selection of the latest releases, live events and exhibitions, straight to your inbox every fortnight, on Fridays. Sign up here.

    In I’ll Show Myself Out: Essays on Midlife and Motherhood (2022), author and comic Jessi Klein writes that: “Motherhood as a story, is so infrequently told, because the world tells us that what mothers do is unremarkable and unimportant.” She goes on to explore the structure of the hero’s epic journey in Hollywood blockbusters, in which the (usually male) hero embarks on a quest and returns home transformed.

    Klein turns this formula on its head. “Motherhood is a hero’s journey, it’s not a journey outwards to the most fantastic, farest-flung places, but a journey inwards, downwards to the deepest parts of your strength.”

    My own film, Motherboard, and several of the films that inspired me, follow the trope of the hero’s journey. But the key difference is that the director is often the hero and the author of her own story. The following films and TV series capture the pain, happiness, chaos and comedy of the hero’s journey that is motherhood.

    1. Lollipop (2024)

    Director Daisy-May Hudson recently developed her own experiences of being homeless with her mum and younger sister into her feature drama debut. Lollipop tells the story of Molly, a young single mum who loses custody of her kids after a short stay in prison. The joy of the film is that it’s the polar opposite to the broken single mums we see in Ken Loach’s Ladybird, Ladybird (1994) and Cathy Come Home (1966).

    Daisy-May Hudson was named as a ‘breakthrough’ director by Bafta in 2015.

    In Hudson’s entirely female cast, Molly and her best mate Amina are fierce single mums who transform the obstacles they face into laugh-out-loud moments of comedy. These are single mums that are flawed, impulsive, powerful, funny and, most importantly, believable.

    2. Better Things (2016)

    Better Things is a TV series, written by and starring Pamela Adlon, based on her own experiences of being a single mum to her three teenage daughters in LA. There’s a great scene in the final series where Adlon’s character, Sam, is being examined by her doctor who asks her if she’s stressed out because she has “too many errands to run”.

    Pamela Adlon and the cast of Better Things discussing the show.

    She replies:

    “No, no. Errands are, like, groceries and going to the post office, it’s the real mum stuff … Soccer club sign-ups and dance classes and tutors and tuition payments and parent-teacher conferences and schools and camps that I have to get them into, mean girl issues with my youngest at school and birth control with my oldest and cruelty from my middle daughter. And then there’s my own mom, who is driving me nuts … And I am definitely going through menopause. So, yeah, Dr. Babu, it’s, like – it’s a lot.”

    3. Boyhood (2014)

    Richard Linklater’s Boyhood often comes up when critics are reviewing Motherboard. It’s a film I love. Filmed over a decade, it depicts the childhood and adolescence of Mason Evans (played by Ellar Coltrane).

    The trailer for Boyhood.

    “I always described it as a film about growing up”, Linklater told the Guardian, “But it’s also a film about parenting”. Linklater was probably the first director I encountered whose character of a single mum (played by Patricia Arquette) felt real to me.

    Patronising empowerment

    I listened to a podcast recently in which Adlon challenged the words that are often used to describe Better Things. “Brave”, “raw” and “vulnerable” come up constantly.

    Critics and audiences often tell me that I’m brave. It can feel condescending. I’ve never heard the word attributed to Linklater’s Boyhood. What sets myself and Adlon apart from Linklater, is that we are both single mothers ourselves.

    As politicians continue to obsess over the recent statistic that “more boys have smartphones than dads”, families with absent fathers will continue to be seen as tragic and flawed. But single mothers are not a problem to be solved. Lollipop, Better Things and Motherboard are all proof of Klein’s belief that “a mother’s heroic journey is not about how she leaves … but about how she stays”.

    Victoria Mapplebeck received funding for Motherboard from OKRE

    – ref. My documentary Motherboard follows my first 21 years of motherhood – these films about single mums inspired me – https://theconversation.com/my-documentary-motherboard-follows-my-first-21-years-of-motherhood-these-films-about-single-mums-inspired-me-253059

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Greens concerned by Government delays to relationships education guidance

    Source: Scottish Greens

    28 Mar 2025 Education

    Schools must feel safe for all pupils. Education can help to end violence against women and girls.

    More in Education

    With extreme misogyny on the rise, the Scottish Greens are deeply concerned that new guidance for teaching young people about relationships and sexual health could face further delay.
     
    Green MSP Ross Greer has worked since 2016 to update this teaching guidance, with a focus on tackling violence against women and girls by introducing content on the importance of consent. The current guidance was produced in 2014 and is woefully inadequate. It does not include a section on consent in sexual relationships, nor is it fully LGBTQ-inclusive.
     
    Mr Greer was heavily involved in drafting new guidance during the Scottish Greens’ time in government. This was published and consulted on in 2023, but the results of that consultation and the Scottish Government’s response are only now being published.
     
    In the government’s response to the consultation, they have said that they will ‘further develop/clarify’ sixteen areas of the guidance, which will likely lead to a further delay to its introduction. This is despite the increased recognition that many boys and young men are being radicalised by extreme online misogyny, as highlighted by the recent Netflix series Adolescence.
     
    The Scottish Greens have urged the Scottish Government to listen to the positive feedback already received from young people, highlighting the survey and focus group work carried out by Youngscot and the Scottish Youth Parliament.

    Scottish Greens’ education spokesperson Ross Greer MSP said:

    “Violence against women and girls is rampant across society and sadly our schools are no exception. Twice as many girls feel unsafe at school because of sexism as they did a decade ago. Teaching all pupils, but especially boys and young men, about the importance of consent is essential to tackling this and making our schools safer. It cannot wait any longer.
     
    “I have spent close to a decade trying to fix this guidance. The draft we produced and consulted on two years ago starts with a substantial section on the importance of consent in relationships. This was based on years of evidence gathering which proved that far too many pupils were leaving school having received education on sex and relationships which didn’t cover this crucial concept.
     
    “As the Netflix drama Adolescence has highlighted, teachers and schools need more resources and support to protect women and girls, and to support men and boys. Another long delay means they are still stuck with decade-old guidance which is woefully out of date.
     
    “The Scottish Government needs to set a clear deadline for finishing what we started. This guidance must be ready to go no later than when the new school year starts in August.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The results of the VI International Arctic Forum “The Arctic: Territory of Dialogue” have been summed up

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    The 6th International Arctic Forum “The Arctic: Territory of Dialogue” was held in Murmansk on March 26–27. The organizer was the Roscongress Foundation with the support of the Russian Government.

    “The International Arctic Forum “The Arctic: Territory of Dialogue” – 2025 was attended by about 1.3 thousand participants and media representatives from 21 countries, as well as about 230 representatives of Russian and foreign businesses from more than 110 companies. The business program included 20 events with the participation of more than 150 speakers. The forum turned out to be truly international and significant. At the plenary session, the President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin announced a number of fundamental decisions for the socio-economic development of the Arctic. The most important task of the IAF is to discuss current problems that the Government of Russia, federal ministries and regions must jointly solve for the successful operation of enterprises, improving the standard of living of people, supporting the territories as a whole,” emphasized Deputy Prime Minister – Plenipotentiary Representative of the President in the Far Eastern Federal District Yuri Trutnev.

    The IAF has become a platform for international dialogue on issues such as the development of the Northern Sea Route, increasing the investment and entrepreneurial potential of the Arctic zone, as well as environmental issues, humanitarian and cultural cooperation.

    “Right now, the Arctic is becoming a territory of opportunities for the entire country. Given the revision of traditional technological chains, given participation in large-scale Arctic projects, huge prospects are opening up for enterprises across the country and creative, artistic people. The development of the Northern Sea Route as the main transport artery in the Arctic, the construction of new railway approaches to northern ports will also have a multiplier effect for the entire country. Within the framework of the upcoming major international forums, including the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum and the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, the Arctic theme will be taken into account and allocated to a separate block of the business program of events,” said Anton Kobyakov, Advisor to the President of Russia, Executive Secretary of the Organizing Committee for the Preparation and Holding of the International Arctic Forum “The Arctic – Territory of Dialogue”.

    One of the central topics of the forum was the discussion of state policy in the Arctic, aimed at the comprehensive development of the Far North and the growth of the well-being of the region’s residents.

    “The mechanisms of state support need to be improved for the accelerated development of the macro-region, the implementation of investment projects, and the improvement of the quality of life of people. Based on the results of the implementation of the first stage of the Arctic development strategy until 2035, proposals will be prepared to update this fundamental document,” said Minister for the Development of the Far East and Arctic Alexey Chekunkov at a joint meeting of the State Council commissions on the development of the Arctic and the Northern Sea Route.

    The forum was held under the motto “Live in the North!” The event brought together representatives of federal and regional authorities, businesses and the expert community.

    “Our strategic plan is “Live in the North!” This is the motto of today’s forum. For us, this is a plan in addition to national projects. Clear, worked out with people, designed, aimed at ensuring investment growth and, of course, increasing people’s incomes and their quality of life,” noted Murmansk Region Governor Andrei Chibis during a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin as part of the MAF.

    Business program

    The business program of the forum included 20 sessions divided into four thematic blocks: “The Arctic and the NSR: how to win in the competitive struggle of world routes”, “The Arctic and the NSR: a pole for attracting investments”, “The Arctic and the NSR: development of key settlements”, “International cooperation and ecology”. More than 150 speakers took part in the discussions.

    The forum included a joint meeting of the State Council commissions on the development of the Arctic and the Northern Sea Route, which united five State Council commissions – in the areas of “Northern Sea Route and the Arctic”, “International Cooperation and Export”, “Energy”, “Youth and Children”, and “Efficient Transport System”.

    The session “The Arctic: Bridges of Cooperation between Peoples and States” summed up the results of the VIII International Scientific and Practical Conference “The Universe of the Polar Bear: Effective Cooperation in the Arctic”.

    Also, for the first time, the MAF hosted a special session dedicated to the role of women in the development of northern regions – the “Arctic Living Room”.

    Plenary session

    The key event of the forum was the plenary session with the participation of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

    “Development of the Russian North, overcoming the challenges of harsh nature, the state’s entry into new promising frontiers – these tasks inspired many generations of our ancestors: sailors and Novgorod merchants of the Middle Ages, Arctic pioneers of the 16th and 17th centuries, industrialists of the 18th and 19th centuries, scientists, polar explorers, engineers, workers of the Soviet Union, teams of companies of modern Russia, which launched large Arctic projects in the early 2000s. And today, the northern vector of development is in the foreground, it is our sovereign, historical choice. And this means that the tasks that we set and solve in the Arctic, the projects that we implement here, must be of an appropriate, historical scale, with an expectation of decades, maybe even centuries. We will do everything to strengthen Russia’s global leadership in the Arctic, and, despite all the current difficulties and complexities, we will ensure the comprehensive development of this region and create a solid foundation for future generations,” the head of state noted.

    Participants

    The forum brought together about 1.3 thousand participants and media representatives from 21 countries, including Russia (Argentina, Great Britain, Venezuela, Vietnam, Germany, India, Kazakhstan, Qatar, China, UAE, Republic of Belarus, Republic of Korea, Russia, USA, Serbia, Singapore, Turkey, Finland, France, Switzerland, Japan).

    The forum was attended by Deputy Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office Maxim Oreshkin, Presidential Adviser and Special Representative of the President for International Cooperation in Transport Igor Levitin, Presidential Aide Alexei Dyumin, Presidential Aide Nikolai Patrushev, and Presidential Adviser Anton Kobyakov.

    The forum was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Vitaly Savelyev and Deputy Prime Minister – Presidential Plenipotentiary Representative in the Far Eastern Federal District Yuri Trutnev, Presidential Plenipotentiary Representative in the Northwestern Federal District Alexander Gutsan, Presidential Plenipotentiary Representative in the Siberian Federal District Anatoly Seryshev, Minister for the Development of the Far East and Arctic Alexey Chekunkov and Minister of Industry and Trade Anton Alikhanov.

    The forum participants included seven heads of federal services and agencies and ten heads of constituent entities of the Russian Federation.

    The Chairman of the Committee of Senior Arctic Officials, Norwegian diplomat Morten Höglund, addressed the forum participants with a video message. In addition, the forum site was visited by the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Korea Lee Do-hoon.

    The forum brought together about 230 representatives of Russian and foreign businesses from more than 110 companies.

    ​

    Media

    The forum was attended by 305 media representatives from Russia and nine foreign countries (Great Britain, Venezuela, Vietnam, Germany, Qatar, Serbia, Turkey, Finland, France).

    ​

    Agreements

    Nine agreements were signed at MAF-2025:

    ● PJSC Rosseti North-West, JSC Rosseti Scientific and Technical Center and the Novosibirsk State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering signed a strategic partnership agreement;

    ● JSC Far East and Arctic Development Corporation signed an agreement on information interaction with the Association of Tour Operators of Russia, as well as with JSC Arsenal on cooperation in the extraction and enrichment of rare metal ores in the Murmansk region within the framework of the Kulyok – Rare Earths project with a total investment volume of 10 billion rubles;

    ● The Federal Agency for Nationalities Affairs and PJSC Mining and Metallurgical Company Norilsk Nickel signed an additional cooperation agreement;

    ● a cooperation agreement was signed between the Government of the Republic of Karelia and Vodohod LLC;

    ● the Ministry of Property Relations of the Murmansk Region and the public-law company Roskadastr signed an agreement on the implementation of the pilot project “Involvement of real estate objects in economic circulation in the Murmansk Region”;

    ● the government of the Murmansk region and the Avito company signed a cooperation agreement;

    ● the government of the Murmansk region, Sberbank of Russia PJSC and the V.A. Almazov National Medical Research Center signed a cooperation agreement;

    ● The Arkhangelsk Region Government and the United Volunteer Center of the Murmansk Region signed an agreement on cooperation in the development of volunteerism and strengthening cooperation in the regions of the Arctic zone, scaling up practices to support the wives of military personnel in the Northern Fleet.

    Sports program

    The sports program included eight events. The Plenipotentiary Representative of the President of Russia in the Northwestern Federal District Alexander Gutsan and the Governor of the Murmansk Region Andrei Chibis took part in the ceremonial event dedicated to the 90th Festival of the North. The program of competitions, which will last until mid-April, included cross-country skiing, biathlon, speed skating and alpine skiing, bandy and others.

    For the forum participants, Arctic team building, exercise in ties, ice floating, alpine skiing and snowboarding, snow fights, as well as an introduction to traditional sports of the peoples of the North were organized.

    The forum included a presentation of the Arctic Mosaic sports, health and strength festival, which will be held annually in different regions of the Arctic zone. Under the auspices of the MAF, the IV All-Russian Arctic Games were held in Salekhard and Labytnangi, the program of which included nine sports.

    The final and largest event of the MAF-2025 sports program will be the 51st Murmansk Ski Marathon. On March 29 and 30, 2.5 thousand athletes will take to the start line of the 25 km and 50 km races at the Dolina Uyuta sports complex. The marathon participants will be Olympic winners and medalists Nikita Kryukov, Alexey Petukhov, Maxim Vylegzhanin and Alexander Bessmertnykh.

    Cultural program

    The cultural program included the opening of the Taste of the Arctic gastrofestival, where a joint team of restaurateurs and chefs from the subjects of the Russian Arctic zone presented a menu of regional cuisine. The Sami Village and the Taste the North ice bar operated on the site. There was also an Arctic crafts fair.

    The Murmansk Regional Museum of Local History offered the forum participants excursions that told about the uniqueness of the Murmansk Region. Thematic exhibitions were timed to coincide with the MAF. Among them was an exhibition of paintings dedicated to the development of the Arctic and the Northern Sea Route, from the collections of the Murmansk Regional Art Museum.

    There was also a ceremony of donating works of art to the Murmansk Region and the opening of the exhibition “H2O. Art about water and more…”. Seven paintings and three sculptures were donated to the Murmansk Regional Art Museum from the Siyanie Contemporary Art Center and the collections of Vladimir Nekrasov and Andrey Malakhov.

    In addition, forum participants were able to take a tour of the icebreaker Lenin, the world’s first vessel with a nuclear power plant, which provided navigation along the Northern Sea Route for about 30 years. The icebreaker has guided thousands of ships through the Arctic and traveled a total of 654,400 nautical miles. It has now become a calling card of the Murmansk Region and one of the most visited tourist sites in the Kola North.

    The Murmansk Drama Theatre hosted an “Art Cocktail”, during which the audience saw the play “Prologue to the Murmansk Region” and a concert by the Pacific Fleet ensemble.

    On March 30, a creative evening of People’s Artist of Russia Alexander Oleshko “Set the Mood” will take place.

    ​

    Project “Soul of Russia. Arctic”

    As part of the project, seven films were screened in partnership with Roskino, including the films North Pole and Village of Widows, which were dedicated to the Year of Defender of the Fatherland and the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War.

    Creative meetings “Inspired by the Arctic” were held, during which viewers met with the production designer of the Soyuzmultfilm studio, creator of the animated series “Umka” Anna Popova, director of the film “North Pole” Alexander Kott, scriptwriter and producer of the film “Widows’ Village” Olga Martisova.

    During the children’s program “Arctic Film Vacations” they showed “The Best Episodes of Soyuzmultfilm Series” and “Warm Animation from Soyuzmultfilm”.

    The business program included a session entitled “The Northern Creative Path: A Territory of Business Opportunities,” where the contribution of creative industries to the economic growth of the northern territories, the use of the wealth of national cultural traditions to create unique brands, and other issues were discussed.

    Expert and analytical support

    The Roscongress Foundation’s information and analytical system continued to develop the Summary service, which uses artificial intelligence to obtain brief analytical summaries of discussions with descriptions of key conclusions, problems, and solutions voiced during the discussions.

    Based on the results of the forum, an analytical report “Results of the International Arctic Forum 2025” will be prepared, which will be available in electronic form in the information and analytical system of the Roscongress Foundation roscongress.org.

    Expert and analytical support for the forum was provided by experts representing the country’s leading scientific and educational centers that conduct research on a wide range of topics on the Arctic agenda, including the Murmansk Arctic University, the Northern (Arctic) Federal University named after M.V. Lomonosov, the St. Petersburg State University of Economics, the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration, the National Research University Higher School of Economics, the G.P. Luzin Institute of Economic Problems of the Kola Scientific Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences, the Institute of Regional Economic Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, etc.

    Partners

    The co-organizer of the forum is the state corporation Rosatom, the strategic partner is PJSC Rosseti, the strategic scientific partner is the National Research Center Kurchatov Institute, the communications partner is the media holding MAER, the business program partners are VTB Bank, PJSC Novatek, MMC Norilsk Nickel, PhosAgro, and the business partner is VEB.RF.

    The information partners were the TV channel Rossiya 24, MIA Rossiya Segodnya, the TASS information agency, MIC Izvestia, the Vedomosti newspaper, the RT TV channel, the Business FM radio station, Sputnik, the Arguments and Facts newspaper, Rossiyskaya Gazeta, the Mir TV channel, the Komsomolskaya Pravda publishing house, Lenta.ru, Gazeta.Ru, Shkulev Media – Vokrug Sveta, the Federal Press information agency, the Expert magazine, the Regional Russia magazine, Vesti FM, the NEWS.ru portal, the GoArctic portal, the Arktik-TV TV channel, the Murmansk State Television and Radio Broadcasting Company, the TV21 TV channel, the Murmansk Herald, the Vecherniy Murmansk newspaper and the Severpost information agency.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: As federal environmental priorities shift, sovereign Native American nations have their own plans

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Alyssa Kreikemeier, Assistant Professor of History, University of Idaho

    Billy Frank Jr., left, a Nisqually tribal elder, was arrested dozens of times while trying to assert his native fishing rights during the ‘Fish Wars’ of the 1960s and 1970s. In this 2014 photo, he stands with Ed Johnstone of the Quinault tribe. AP Photo/Ted S. Warren

    Long before the large-scale Earth Day protests on April 22, 1970 – often credited with spurring significant environmental protection legislation – Native Americans stewarded the environment. As sovereign nations, Native Americans have been able to protect land, water and air, including well beyond their own boundaries.

    Their actions laid the groundwork for modern federal law and policy, including national legislation aimed at reducing pollution. Now the Trump administration is seeking to weaken some of those limits and eliminate programs aimed at improving the environments in which marginalized people live and work.

    As an environmental historian, I study how Native Americans have shaped environmental management. Tribal nations are the longest stewards of the lands today known as the United States. My work indicates not only that tribal nations contributed to the origins and evolution of modern environmental management on tribal and nontribal lands, but also that they are well poised to continue environmental management and scientific research regardless of U.S. government actions.

    Environmental sovereignty

    Native peoples stewarded and studied their environments for millennia before European colonization. Today, Native nations continue to use science, technology and Indigenous knowledge to benefit their own people and the broader population.

    Their stewardship continues despite repeated and ongoing efforts to dispossess Native peoples. In 1953, Congress reversed centuries of federally recognizing tribal authority, passing a law that terminated tribal nations’ legal and political status and federal obligations under treaties and legal precedents, including requirements to provide education and health care.

    This termination policy subjected tribal nations and reservation lands to state jurisdiction and relocated at least 200,000 Native people from tribal lands to urban centers.

    A groundswell of Native American resistance captured national attention, including protests and tactics such as “fish-ins,” which involved fishing at traditional grounds guaranteed by treaties but not honored by land use at the time. Their efforts led federal courts to affirm the very rights termination had sought to expunge.

    Native nations regained federally recognized rights and political power at the same time as the national environmental awakening. In fact, tribal nations exercised environmental sovereignty in ways that restored federal recognition and influenced broader U.S. environmental law and policy.

    Air quality

    In the 1960s, air pollution in America posed a serious health threat, with smog killing Americans on occasion and harming their long-term health. Under the 1970 Clean Air Act amendments, the federal government set national standards for air quality and penalties for polluters.

    As early as 1974, the Northern Cheyenne Tribe in southeastern Montana began monitoring its own air quality. Finding that its air was substantially cleaner than other areas of the country, the tribe used a new approach to push the Environmental Protection Agency to approve enhanced protections beyond the minimum federal standards. The Northern Cheyenne wanted to prevent polluting industries from moving into locations with cleaner air that could be polluted without exceeding the federal limits. That protection was codified in the 1977 Clean Air Act amendments, which established legal protections and a process for communities to claim greater pollution protections nationwide.

    In 1978, the Northern Cheyenne used their higher standards to limit pollution sources on private land upwind of tribal lands, temporarily blocking the construction of two additional coal-fired power plants.

    Within a decade, the Assiniboine and Sioux nations at Fort Peck and the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes also claimed enhanced air protection and developed air quality monitoring programs even before most state governments did. Dozens of tribal nations have taken control of their air quality in the years since.

    This September 1941 photo shows Native Americans fishing for salmon at Celilo Falls, Ore.
    Russell Lee/Library of Congress via AP

    Waterways

    Native nations also exercise sovereignty over waterways. In the Pacific Northwest, people whose ancestors have lived in the area for at least 16,000 years have moved to protect themselves and their lands from the effects of massive hydropower projects.

    The Columbia River Basin hydropower project, which began in the 1930s, now includes over 250 dams that together generate nearly half of the United States’ hydropower. Its dams and associated development stretch from the Canadian Rockies to Southern California, with effects crossing dozens of Native nations as well as international and state boundaries. The construction of the dams inundated multiple tribal nations’ lands and displaced thousands of Native people.

    When four dams were built on the lower Snake River in Idaho in the 1960s, they inundated ancestral lands and fishing grounds of Columbia River Native Americans, including the Nez Perce Tribe. The dams decimated fish populations many tribes have long relied upon for both sustenance and cultural practices and destroyed ancient and culturally significant fishing sites, including Celilo Falls near The Dalles, Oregon, which had been fished for at least 10,000 years.

    Nez Perce scientists and environmental managers, working alongside other Northwest tribes, have documented the near extinction of numerous species of salmon and steelhead fish, despite federal, state and tribal agencies investing billions of dollars in hatchery programs to boost fish populations. The Nez Perce Department of Fisheries Resources Management protects and restores aquatic ecosystems. In collaboration with nearby communities, the tribe also restores significant areas of habitat on nontribal lands. That includes decommissioning many miles of logging roads, removing mine tailings and sowing tens of thousands of native plants.

    The Nez Perce and other tribes advocate for the removal of those four dams to restore salmon populations. They cite, among other evidence, a 2002 Army Corps of Engineers study that found removal was the most effective way to meet the Endangered Species Act’s requirements to restore decimated fish populations.

    As part of a collaboration between federal agencies and Native tribes, juvenile coho salmon are released into the Columbia River Basin.
    AP Photo/Gillian Flaccus

    Taking a long view

    Native Americans and tribal nations see environmental sovereignty as essential to their past, present and future.

    In 2015, the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes became the first Native nation to take over a federal dam when they purchased the Selis Ksanka Qlispe dam, operating on the Flathead River in Montana. Managed by a tribal corporation, the dam produces enough hydropower to supply 100,000 homes, bringing millions of dollars to tribal coffers rather than enriching a corporation in Pennsylvania.

    Over the decades, Native nations have partnered with federal agencies and used federal laws and funds to manage their environments. They have also built connections between tribes and nations across the continent.

    For instance, the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission coordinates and assists Columbia Basin tribes with environmental management and fishing rights. In northern New Mexico, the Indigenous women of Tewa Women United work against the legacy and ongoing effects of nuclear research affecting their homelands and communities from Los Alamos National Laboratory.

    Across the U.S., the Indian Land Tenure Foundation works with Native peoples to secure control of their homelands through land return and legal reforms, while Honor the Earth organizes Indigenous peoples in North America and globally to advance social change rooted in Indigenous sovereignty through treaty organizing and advocacy.

    Tribal governments have been hit hard by the shifts in federal priorities, including Trump administration funding cuts that have slowed scientific research, such as environmental monitoring and management on tribal lands.

    Tribal governance takes a long view based in Native peoples’ deep history with these lands. And their legal and political status as sovereign nations – backed by the U.S. Constitution, treaties, more than 120 Supreme Court rulings and the plain text of federal laws – puts Native nations in a strong position to continue their efforts, no matter which ways the federal winds blow.

    I have conducted research for the National Park Service as an employee of the University of New Mexico’s School for Architecture and Planning. My research at the University of Idaho has been partially supported by the U.S. National Science Foundation’s Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research.

    – ref. As federal environmental priorities shift, sovereign Native American nations have their own plans – https://theconversation.com/as-federal-environmental-priorities-shift-sovereign-native-american-nations-have-their-own-plans-251685

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: NANO Nuclear Energy Bolsters the Engineering Team Overseeing the Development of its ODIN™ Microreactor with Three Additional Leading Professionals

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, N.Y., March 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) (“NANO Nuclear” or “the Company”), a leading advanced nuclear energy and technology company focused on developing clean energy solutions, today announced that three additional professionals have joined its U.K.-based nuclear science and engineering partner Cambridge AtomWorks, led by Professors Ian Farnan and Eugene Shwageraus. Cambridge AtomWorks personnel are leading the development of NANO Nuclear’s ODIN™, a low-pressure coolant microreactor.

    Radwan Nassim Kheroua joins as a Nuclear Systems Engineer, Luke Godfrey as a Senior Nuclear Engineer, and Jake Miles as a Nuclear Engineer. Their appointments finalize NANO Nuclear’s latest round of additions to its engineering team, building on the previously announced roles for Andrew Steer, Ph.D., as NANO Nuclear’s Head of Regulatory Engagement and James Leybourn and Simon Boddington as Senior Nuclear Engineers.

    Figure 1 – NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. Appoints Radwan Nassim Kheroua as Nuclear Systems Engineer, Luke Godfrey as Senior Nuclear Engineer, and Jake Miles as Nuclear Engineer.

    Mr. Kheroua previously served as a Research Engineer in Reactor Thermal-Hydraulic Modeling at Framatome, where he carried out his first industrial research in nuclear fusion, working on plasma physics at CEA Cadarache and tritium monitoring with the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority’s Culham Centre for Fusion Energy (UKAEA CCFE). He brings extensive expertise in reactor accident analysis and fuel safety case justification.

    Mr. Godfrey previously served as Lead Thermohydraulic Engineer at Moltex, focusing on molten salt heat transfer, coupled reactor system modeling, and safety case development. During his time at Moltex, he was integral to designing the SSRW and FLEX reactors, leading thermal hydraulics, developing coupled simulation tools, contributing to safety cases development, planning verification and validation activities, and designing key experiments.

    Mr. Miles earned a BSc in Physics from the University of Leeds and later completed a Master’s degree in Nuclear Energy at the University of Cambridge. He briefly researched reactor physics and shutdown systems for high-temperature gas-cooled reactors before transitioning to the nuclear maritime industry, where he specialized in modeling and simulation of Molten Chloride Fast Reactors and their systems. In his new role, he will focus on shielding design and core optimization for the ODIN microreactor, supporting the technology’s ongoing development.

    “We are very pleased to continue expanding our engineering team with some of the top talent in the field of nuclear energy,” said Professor Ian Farnan, Lead of Nuclear Fuel Cycle, Radiation and Materials of NANO Nuclear. “These additions bring us a wealth of technical knowledge and a deep understanding of nuclear technologies that will be leveraged to support the development and advancement of our proprietary microreactor systems.”

    “With the additions of Mr. Kheroua, Mr. Godfrey and Mr. Miles, together with our other recent hires, I believe we are assembling a leading team of nuclear engineers,” said Professor Eugene Shwageraus, Lead of Nuclear Reactor Engineering of NANO Nuclear. “Their specialized expertise further strengthens our design process and supports a robust development schedule, ensuring we continue building on our momentum effectively.”

    As NANO Nuclear continues to expand its operations, it remains committed to developing cutting-edge nuclear solutions that redefine the global energy landscape. The addition of Mr. Kheroua, Mr. Godfrey and Mr. Miles’ cutting-edge engineering talent will support NANO Nuclear’s endeavors to tackle the particular challenges associated with the ongoing development of the proprietary ‘ZEUS’ and ‘ODIN’ microreactors, as well as the KRONOS MMR™ Energy System and the LOKI MMR™ high-efficiency nuclear systems for remote and off-grid applications.

    “It is a pleasure to welcome our newest additions to the engineering team overseeing the development of the ODIN microreactor,” said James Walker, Chief Executive Officer of NANO Nuclear. “We’ve assembled a group of highly skilled professionals for this project, and I’m confident their arrival will significantly accelerate our development timeline and strengthen the ODIN microreactor’s path toward demonstration, regulatory approval and ultimately commercialization.”

    About NANO Nuclear Energy, Inc.

    NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) is an advanced technology-driven nuclear energy company seeking to become a commercially focused, diversified, and vertically integrated company across five business lines: (i) cutting edge portable and other microreactor technologies, (ii) nuclear fuel fabrication, (iii) nuclear fuel transportation, (iv) nuclear applications for space and (v) nuclear industry consulting services. NANO Nuclear believes it is the first portable nuclear microreactor company to be listed publicly in the U.S.

    Led by a world-class nuclear engineering team, NANO Nuclear’s reactor products in development include patented KRONOS MMR™ Energy System, a stationary high-temperature gas-cooled reactor that is in construction permit pre-application engagement U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) in collaboration with University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC), “ZEUS”, a solid core battery reactor, and “ODIN”, a low-pressure coolant reactor, and the space focused, portable LOKI MMR™, each representing advanced developments in clean energy solutions that are portable, on-demand capable, advanced nuclear microreactors.

    Advanced Fuel Transportation Inc. (AFT), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is led by former executives from the largest transportation company in the world aiming to build a North American transportation company that will provide commercial quantities of HALEU fuel to small modular reactors, microreactor companies, national laboratories, military, and DOE programs. Through NANO Nuclear, AFT is the exclusive licensee of a patented high-capacity HALEU fuel transportation basket developed by three major U.S. national nuclear laboratories and funded by the Department of Energy. Assuming development and commercialization, AFT is expected to form part of the only vertically integrated nuclear fuel business of its kind in North America.

    HALEU Energy Fuel Inc. (HEF), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is focusing on the future development of a domestic source for a High-Assay, Low-Enriched Uranium (HALEU) fuel fabrication pipeline for NANO Nuclear’s own microreactors as well as the broader advanced nuclear reactor industry.

    NANO Nuclear Space Inc. (NNS), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is exploring the potential commercial applications of NANO Nuclear’s developing micronuclear reactor technology in space. NNS is focusing on applications such as the LOKI MMR™ system and other power systems for extraterrestrial projects and human sustaining environments, and potentially propulsion technology for long haul space missions. NNS’ initial focus will be on cis-lunar applications, referring to uses in the space region extending from Earth to the area surrounding the Moon’s surface.

    For more corporate information please visit: https://NanoNuclearEnergy.com/

    For further NANO Nuclear information, please contact:

    Email: IR@NANONuclearEnergy.com
    Business Tel: (212) 634-9206

    PLEASE FOLLOW OUR SOCIAL MEDIA PAGES HERE:

    NANO Nuclear Energy LINKEDIN
    NANO Nuclear Energy YOUTUBE
    NANO Nuclear Energy X PLATFORM

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements

    This news release and statements of NANO Nuclear’s management in connection with this news release contain or may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In this context, forward-looking statements mean statements related to future events, which may impact our expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as “expects”, “anticipates”, “intends”, “plans”, “believes”, “potential”, “will”, “should”, “could”, “would” or “may” and other words of similar meaning. In this press release, forward-looking statements includes those related to the anticipated benefits to NANO Nuclear of the appointment of the nuclear engineers, as well as the Company’s regulatory plans in general, each as described herein. These and other forward-looking statements are based on information available to us as of the date of this news release and represent management’s current views and assumptions. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, events or results and involve significant known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may be beyond our control. For NANO Nuclear, particular risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual future results to differ materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements include but are not limited to the following: (i) risks related to our U.S. Department of Energy (“DOE”) or related state or non-U.S. nuclear fuel licensing submissions, (ii) risks related the development of new or advanced technology and the acquisition of complimentary technology or businesses, including difficulties with design and testing, cost overruns, regulatory delays, integration issues and the development of competitive technology, (iii) our ability to obtain contracts and funding to be able to continue operations, (iv) risks related to uncertainty regarding our ability to technologically develop and commercially deploy a competitive advanced nuclear reactor or other technology in the timelines we anticipate, if ever, (v) risks related to the impact of U.S. and non-U.S. government regulation, policies and licensing requirements, including by the DOE and the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, including those associated with the recently enacted ADVANCE Act, and (vi) similar risks and uncertainties associated with the operating an early stage business a highly regulated and rapidly evolving industry. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which apply only as of the date of this news release. These factors may not constitute all factors that could cause actual results to differ from those discussed in any forward-looking statement, and NANO Nuclear therefore encourages investors to review other factors that may affect future results in its filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov and at https://ir.nanonuclearenergy.com/financial-information/sec-filings. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as a predictor of actual results. We do not undertake to update our forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that may arise after the date of this news release, except as required by law.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Live Ventures CEO Announces Purchase of 55,796 Shares of the Company’s Common Stock in the Open Market

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LAS VEGAS, March 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Live Ventures Incorporated (Nasdaq: LIVE) (“Live Ventures” or the “Company”), a diversified holding company, today announced that Jon Isaac, its President and Chief Executive Officer, acquired 55,796 shares of the Company’s common stock in open market transactions valued at approximately $385,000.

    “I remain confident in the long-term strength of our businesses,” commented Jon Isaac, President and Chief Executive Officer of Live Ventures. “This investment reflects my belief in the value we are creating for our shareholders.”

    The purchases were made on March 25, 26, and 27, 2025, the details of which are reflected in a Form 4 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

    Forward-Looking and Cautionary Statements

    The use of the word “Company” refers to Live Ventures and its wholly owned subsidiaries. Certain statements in this press release contain or may suggest “forward-looking” information within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, each as amended, that are intended to be covered by the “safe harbor” created by those sections. Words such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” and similar statements are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Live Ventures may also make forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on Forms 10-K and 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K, in its annual report to stockholders, in press releases and other written materials, and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and there are a number of important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements made by the Company, including, but not limited to, plans and objectives of management for future operations or products, the market acceptance or future success of our products, and our future financial performance. The Company cautions that these forward-looking statements are further qualified by other factors including, but not limited to, those set forth in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2024. Additionally, new risk factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all such risk factors, or to assess the impact such risk factors might have on our business. Live Ventures undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    About Live Ventures Incorporated

    Live Ventures is a diversified holding company with a strategic focus on value-oriented acquisitions of domestic middle-market companies. Live Ventures’ acquisition strategy is sector-agnostic and focuses on well-run, closely held businesses with a demonstrated track record of earnings growth and cash flow generation. The Company looks for opportunities to partner with management teams of its acquired businesses to build increased stockholder value through a disciplined buy-build-hold long-term focused strategy. Live Ventures was founded in 1968. In late 2011, Jon Isaac, Chief Executive Officer and strategic investor, joined the Company’s Board of Directors and later refocused it into a diversified holding company. The Company’s current portfolio of diversified operating subsidiaries includes companies in the textile, flooring, tools, steel, and entertainment industries.

    Contact:
    Live Ventures Incorporated
    Greg Powell, Director of Investor Relations
    725.500.5597
    gpowell@liveventures.com
    www.liveventures.com

    Source: Live Ventures Incorporated

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Vicon’s new markerless system enabling Dreamscape Immersive’s latest VR experience

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    28 March 2025

    Oxford Metrics plc

    (“Oxford Metrics” or the “Group”)

    Vicon’s new markerless system enabling Dreamscape Immersive’s latest VR experience

    New location-based VR technology to launch at Dreamscape’s Geneva flagship store in partnership with Swiss research partner, Artanim

    Oxford Metrics plc (LSE: OMG), the smart sensing and software company servicing life sciences, entertainment, engineering and smart manufacturing markets, announces that Vicon, its motion capture division, will be powering Dreamscape’s latest Location Based Virtual Reality (“LBVR”) experience, with its recently launched Vicon Markerless system.

    For Dreamscape, markerless motion capture can now provide a more true-to-life adventure than any other immersive VR experience by allowing more free-flowing movement and exploration without the need for markers and less user gear. Bringing smoother user journeys, this technological upgrade also has a major impact on staff operations and will ultimately facilitate Dreamscape’s international locations rollout.

    Located exclusively at their flagship store in Geneva, this new technology will be implemented across all industry sectors where Dreamscape is active including Entertainment, Education and Corporate solutions.

    Entitled ‘The House of Wonders’, the new six person, markerless and multimodal LBVR experience has been created in partnership with Audemars Piguet, the Swiss haute horlogerie manufacturer. ‘The House of Wonders’ experience delves participants into the hidden depths of enchanting workshops, where they meet a cast of passionate artisans and participate in the creation of a mechanical marvel. The VR technology bringing the experience to life was developed in collaboration with Artanim, the Swiss research institute.

    Imogen O’Connor, Oxford Metrics CEO commented on the collaboration: “Hot off the heels of our markerless launch, it’s great to announce that our innovative technology will be powering Dreamscape’s latest VR experience. Collaborating with Dreamscape on this project offered Vicon a unique opportunity to continue our work with a world leader in Location Based Virtual Reality and demonstrates the value of our markerless motion capture technology. This is only the beginning. Vicon’s system is a first-of-its-kind platform for markerless motion capture for creators, story tellers and 3D artists across Location Based Virtual Reality, Game, Film and Episodic TV.”

    Commenting on the new experience, Caecilia Charbonnier, Co-founder & CIO of Dreamscape, said: “We’ve long anticipated the moment when markerless motion capture could transition from concept to reality, reaching the level of precision needed to unlock its full potential. With Vicon’s decades-long legacy of setting the gold standard in motion capture technology and Dreamscape’s unwavering mission to create seamless, immersive experiences, our collaboration on this project was a natural fit.”

    The collaboration between Vicon and Artanim was key to ensure the desired requirements for the VR use case were met.

    Sylvain Chagué, co-founder and CTO of Artanim and Dreamscape, said: “Delivering best in class virtual body ownership and immersion in VR demands both accurate tracking and very low latency. We dedicated substantial R&D efforts to evaluating computational performance of machine learning-based tracking algorithms, carefully implementing and refining this multi-modal tracking solution – seamlessly integrating full-body markerless motion capture and VR headset tracking for an unparalleled experience.”  

    For further information please contact:

    Oxford Metrics +44 (0) 1865 261860
    Imogen O’Connor, CEO  
    Zoe Fox, CFO
    Emma Colven, Head of Communications    		  
    FTI Consulting +44 (0)20 3727 1000
    Matt Dixon / Emma Hall / Jemima Gurney  

    About Oxford Metrics

    Oxford Metrics is a smart sensing and software company that enables the interface between the real world and its virtual twin. Our smart sensing technology helps over 10,000 customers in more than 70 countries, including all of the world’s top 10 games companies and all of the top 20 universities worldwide. Founded in 1984, we started our journey in healthcare, expanded into entertainment, winning an OSCAR® and an Emmy®, moved into defence, engineering and smart manufacturing. We have a strong track record of creating value by incubating, growing and then augmenting through acquisition, unique technology businesses.

    The Group trades through its market-leading division Vicon, Industrial Vision Systems, and recently acquired, The Sempre Group. Vicon is a world leader in motion measurement analysis to thousands of customers worldwide, including Red Bull, Imperial College London, Dreamscape Immersive, Industrial Light & Magic, and NASA. Industrial Vision Systems is a specialist in machine vision software and technology for high precision, automated quality control systems trusted by blue-chip, smart manufacturing companies across the globe including BD, DePuy, Jaguar Land Rover, Johnson & Johnson, Zytronic and Alkegen. Sempre is a measurement specialist solving manufacturing challenges across multiple industries. Through their expert in-house consultants and partnerships with over 25 well-known manufacturers including Jenoptik, Renishaw and Micro-Vu, Sempre offers an extensive range of products and software to customers in aerospace, automotive, medical, energy and precision engineering.

    The Group is headquartered in Oxford with offices in the United Kingdom, United States and Germany. Since 2001, Oxford Metrics (LSE: OMG), has been a quoted company listed on AIM, a market operated by the London Stock Exchange. For more information about Oxford Metrics, visit www.oxfordmetrics.com.

    About Dreamscape

    Dreamscape Immersive is a world-leading VR company pioneering immersive experiences for entertainment, enterprise, and education.

    Dreamscape combines the emotional power of Hollywood storytelling, the visceral excitement of major theme parks and cutting-edge motion capture technology to create stories and worlds that push the boundaries of virtual reality.

    Dreamscape was founded in 2017 by technology experts, cinematic heavyweights, and live events professionals. The company’s location-based VR venues began rolling out across the United States and the Middle East in December 2018 to unprecedented audience enthusiasm. Most recently, Dreamscape introduced Dreamscape Learn, a new partnership with the nation’s leading innovator in education Arizona State University, to transform learning through exploration. The company is headquartered in Los Angeles, California, with its European headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. To learn more about Dreamscape, visit our site at: dreamscapeimmersive.com.

    About Artanim

    A Swiss leading non-profit center in motion capture technologies, Artanim Foundation was founded in Geneva, Switzerland in 2011. The foundation pursues two strategic lines of research related to motion capture:

    • Virtual and augmented reality: Artanim develops virtual or augmented reality applications that emphasize on real-time interaction and virtual characters animation using state-of-the-art technologies. Part of this R&D effort has resulted in the commercial exploitation of story-based full-roam VR experiences as offered by Dreamscape, the leading VR company, leveraging Artanim’s breakthrough VR platform to create the ultimate immersive experience for location-based entertainment and education.
    • Medical research: Artanim combines motion capture with 3D medical imaging to better understand individualized human joint structures and to improve diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders.

    Besides its research activities, Artanim develops award-winning interactive installations that can exploit the potential of virtual and augmented reality, user performance and interactive control to provide new ways of experiencing digital content. For more information about Artanim, visit: artanim.ch.

    About Reach announcements

    This is a RNS Reach announcement. Reach is an investor communication service aimed at assisting listed and unlisted companies to distribute media only / non-regulatory news releases into the public domain. Information required to be notified under the AIM Rules, Market Abuse Regulation or other regulation would be disseminated as an RNS regulatory announcement and not on Reach.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Captivision Unveils New Corporate Branding, Paving the Way for a Transformative Era of Growth

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIAMI, March 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Captivision Inc. (“Captivision” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: CAPT), today announced a new corporate branding and website, accessible via www.captivision.com. The new branding reflects the Company’s innovative spirit and cutting-edge technology while channeling the history and original inspiration for the Company’s founding.

    The newly launched website features captivating showcases of the company’s diverse portfolio, highlighting an array of impressive projects. It also emphasizes the company’s extensive range of services and expertise, including cutting-edge LED solutions, and highlights its collaborations with world-class clients across various industries.

    “We are excited about the growth of Captivision in multiple geographies with a broadening array of important partners and clients,” said Gary Garrabrant, Chairman and CEO of Captivision. “Our new corporate identity reflects our progress and is a milestone for our company and our stakeholders.”

    About Captivision

    Captivision is a pioneering manufacturer of media glass, combining IT building material and architectural glass. The product has a boundless array of applications including entertainment media, information media, cultural and artistic content as well as marketing use cases. Captivision can transform any glass façade into a transparent media screen with real time live stream capability. Captivision is fast becoming a solution provider across the LED product spectrum.

    Captivision’s media glass and solutions have been implemented in hundreds of locations globally across sports stadiums, entertainment venues, casinos and hotels, convention centers, office and retail properties and airports. Learn more at http://www.captivision.com/.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended. These forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements relating to expectations for future financial performance, business strategies, or expectations for the Company’s respective businesses. These statements are based on the beliefs and assumptions of the management of the Company. Although the Company believes that its plans, intentions and expectations reflected in or suggested by these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that it will achieve or realize these plans, intentions or expectations. These statements constitute projections, forecasts, and forward-looking statements, and are not guarantees of performance. Such statements can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. When used in this press release, words such as “believe”, “can”, “continue”, “expect”, “forecast”, “may”, “plan”, “project”, “should”, “will” or the negative of such terms, and similar expressions, may identify forward-looking statements, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking.

    The risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: (1) the ability to raise financing in the future and to comply with restrictive covenants related to indebtedness; (2) the ability to realize the benefits expected from the business combination and the Company’s strategic direction; (3) the significant market adoption, demand and opportunities in the construction and digital out of home media industries for the Company’s products; (4) the ability to maintain the listing of the Company’s ordinary shares and warrants on Nasdaq; (5) the ability of the Company to remain competitive in the fourth generation architectural media glass industry in the face of future technological innovations; (6) the ability of the Company to execute its international expansion strategy; (7) the ability of the Company to protect its intellectual property rights; (8) the profitability of the Company’s larger projects, which are subject to protracted sales cycles; (9) whether the raw materials, components, finished goods, and services used by the Company to manufacture its products will continue to be available and will not be subject to significant price increases; (10) the IT, vertical real estate, and large format wallscape modified regulatory restrictions or building codes; (11) the ability of the Company’s manufacturing facilities to meet their projected manufacturing costs and production capacity; (12) the future financial performance of the Company; (13) the emergence of new technologies and the response of the Company’s customer base to those technologies; (14) the ability of the Company to retain or recruit, or to effect changes required in, its officers, key employees, or directors; (15) the ability of the Company to comply with laws and regulations applicable to its business; and (16) other risks and uncertainties set forth under the section of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F entitled “Risk Factors.”

    These forward-looking statements are based on information available as of the date of this press release and the Company’s management team’s current expectations, forecasts, and assumptions, and involve a number of judgments, known and unknown risks and uncertainties and other factors, many of which are outside the control of the Company and its directors, officers, and affiliates. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing the Company management team’s views as of any subsequent date. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update, add or to otherwise correct any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect events or circumstances after the date they were made, whether as a result of new information, future events, inaccuracies that become apparent after the date hereof or otherwise, except as may be required under applicable securities laws.

    Media Contact:
    Gateway Group
    Zach Kadletz
    +1 949-574-3860
    CAPT@gateway-grp.com

    Investor Contact:
    Gateway Group
    Ralf Esper
    +1 949-574-3860
    CAPT@gateway-grp.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Galaxy A56 5G, Galaxy A36 5G and Galaxy A26 5G Are Now Available Worldwide

    Source: Samsung

    Samsung Electronics today announced the global availability1 of the Galaxy A56 5G, Galaxy A36 5G and Galaxy A26 5G, marking a significant step toward opening up new possibilities for even more users through advanced mobile AI technology. This is the first Galaxy A series to feature Awesome Intelligence – a comprehensive and intuitive mobile AI experience that offers powerful and fun AI-powered tools2 for easy search and amazing visual experiences.
     
    “As Samsung continues to lead the way in mobile AI, we are committed to bringing its power to even more users, providing new ways to explore and capture the world around them through Awesome Intelligence,” said TM Roh, President and Head of Mobile eXperience Business at Samsung Electronics. “With the launch of the new Galaxy A series, we look forward to more people benefitting from smart and fun mobile experiences that unleash their creativity, all while ensuring the security and reliability users expect from us.”
     
    The latest Galaxy A series brings users Galaxy’s fan-favorite AI-powered features. Enhanced Circle to Search with Google3 offers a seamless way to find answers, enabling users to instantly bring information to their fingertips with a simple gesture. With Object Eraser,4 users can easily remove unwanted elements from photos for a cleaner, more polished look. For those who enjoy customizing their photos even further, Filters5 can create unique effects inspired by their favorite images. Available only on Galaxy A56 5G within the Galaxy A series, Best Face6 allows users to select the best expressions from multiple frames and combine them into a single photo so everyone looks their best.

     
    Galaxy A56 5G and Galaxy A36 5G feature a 6.7-inch7 FHD+ Super AMOLED display with a peak brightness of up to 1200 nits,8 offering a vivid and immersive viewing experience in any environment. A 5,000mAh battery powers all three models, allowing users to enjoy every moment for longer. Galaxy A56 5G and Galaxy A36 5G deliver enhanced performance, with a larger vapor chamber9 that ensures smoother multitasking, gaming and video playback. The new Galaxy A series also provides an extra, fortified layer of device safety, transparency and user choice with Samsung Knox Vault. Additionally, these devices are built for long-term use and peace of mind, with support for up to six generations of OS upgrades and six years of security updates.
     
    The new Galaxy A series will be available globally through carriers, retailers and Samsung.com starting March 28, and will come in a range of stylish color options.10 Galaxy A56 5G is available in Awesome Lightgray, Awesome Graphite, Awesome Olive and Awesome Pink. Galaxy A36 5G comes in Awesome Lavender, Awesome Black, Awesome White and Awesome Lime. Galaxy A26 5G is available in Black, White, Mint and Peach Pink.
     

     

     

     

     
    For more information about Galaxy A56 5G, Galaxy A36 5G and Galaxy A26 5G, please visit: Samsung Newsroom, Samsung Mobile Press and Samsung.com.
     
     

    1 Availability may vary by country, region and carrier.2 Samsung Account login may be required to use certain features. Samsung does not make any promises, assurances or guarantees as to the accuracy, completeness or reliability of the output provided by Intelligent features. Availability of features may vary depending on the region/country, OS/One UI version, device model and carrier.3 Service availability may vary by country, language and device model. Requires an internet connection. Users may need to update Android and Google app to the latest version. Results may vary depending on visual or audio matches. Accuracy of results is not guaranteed. Works on compatible apps and surfaces, and with ambient music only. Will not identify music coming through headphones or if phone volume is off.4 Results may vary based on the images and the object the user is trying to remove.5 Filters feature is unavailable in the 3:4 64MP aspect ratio setting. Its availability might differ based on device model and software version. Filter availability may vary based on resolution and aspect ratio settings.6 Accuracy of results is not guaranteed. Best Face feature is available exclusively on the Galaxy A56 5G device from the Galaxy A series. Best Face is only available for photos taken with Motion Photo turned on. The feature does not generate new facial expressions but selects from frames within the Motion Photo video clip. It can recognize up to five people per image and suggest up to three alternative expressions per person.7 Measured diagonally, the screen size is 6.7″ in the full rectangle and 6.5″ accounting for the rounded corners. Actual viewable area is less due to the rounded corners and the camera hole.8 1,200 nits in High Brightness Mode (HBM).9 Compared to previous generation.10 Color and model availability may vary depending on country, region or carrier.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Norwich secures £750,000 funding boost to empower local communities

    Source: City of Norwich

    A major funding boost is coming to Norwich, with £750,000 set to strengthen community initiatives, improve housing stability, and enhance street cleanliness across the city.

    Awarded by Norwich City Council through central government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), this funding builds on the success of the £1.6 million already allocated between 2022 and 2025. The new funding will support fourteen carefully selected projects that align with the government’s latest UKSPF priorities: strengthening communities and places, supporting local businesses, and enhancing people’s skills.

    Extending successful community-led projects

    Two established projects will receive extended funding to continue their impactful work:

    • Brighter Futures (run by Future Projects): Having already helped 105 unemployed individuals into work, training, or volunteering, this programme will now expand its reach to support even more people facing employment barriers.

    Daniel Childerhouse chief executive of Future Projects, said:

    “We’re absolutely thrilled to continue this work, offering flexible, creative support where it’s needed most—and changing lives in the process.”

    • MENTA (in collaboration with FUSE): Offering essential start-up advice, training, and mentoring for businesses, social enterprises, and entrepreneurs, this initiative has already equipped over 250 individuals and start-ups with crucial skills to launch and grow their ventures.

    Willow Farrell, chief executive of FUSE, said:“We are delighted to be working with FUSE and to see the extension of UKSPF funding for enterprise support within Norwich. This vital investment ensures that new, emerging, and existing microbusinesses—alongside those exploring social enterprise—continue to receive the guidance and resources they need to thrive.”

    Supporting a diverse range of community initiatives

    The funding will also boost several other key initiatives, including:

    • BITC (Business in the Community): Business Encounter Schools in East Earlham, working with education providers to bridge the gap between business and education and enhance social mobility.
    • INTERACT: A multi-agency intervention supporting those at risk of falls.
    • Clean streets: Additional resources dedicated to improving the cleanliness of the city and its neighbourhoods.
    • Community safety: Increased capacity to tackle anti-social behaviour and respond to safety concerns.
    • Homelessness prevention: Early intervention, tenancy support, and mediation services to reduce the risk of homelessness.
    • Let NCC: Incentives designed to increase the availability of affordable rental properties in Norwich.
    • Housing estate enhancements: Improvements to estates to support ongoing clean street initiatives.
    • Reducing inequality: Strengthening neighbourhood networks in target areas to foster a more inclusive community.
    • NoW: Project management support to streamline services, making it easier for residents to access the help they need.

    A track record of success

    Previous rounds of UKSPF funding have already delivered significant community benefits across Norwich, from upgrading public spaces and facilities to supporting local engagement. Alongside training and skills programmes, the fund has helped deliver community-led improvements, refurbished public buildings, and established a popular skill-sharing hub in Mile Cross.

    Initiatives such as the Love Norwich grants have contributed to the creation of new community gardens and murals, while increased support for events, volunteering, and social enterprises has strengthened local participation. Neighbourhood cleanliness efforts have also led to improved waste management and enforcement.

    A Fairer Norwich for all

    Davina Howes, Norwich City Council’s executive director overseeing communities, welcomed the additional funding, stating: “Norwich is home to many fantastic community groups and initiatives, and we are proud to support them as part of our commitment to A Fairer Norwich.

    “The additional UKSPF funding is a testament to the achievements of these projects, which continue to make a real difference in our city.

    “Investing in these projects will enable us to further support our residents, improve quality of life, and foster a stronger, more vibrant Norwich.”

    The funding proposals will be presented to Norwich City Council’s cabinet for approval on Wednesday, 2 April.

    Achievements to date:

    Since its inception, the UKSPF has enabled Norwich City Council to deliver a broad range of impactful initiatives:

    1. Love Norwich grants: 39 grants awarded for community-led improvements to public outdoor spaces, including community gardens, wildflower areas, murals, and park improvements.
    2. Community building improvements: 60 small capital grants for upgrades to public buildings, enhancing facilities and energy efficiency.
    3. New Community facility: A skill-sharing hub, 185, opened in Mile Cross, offering activities focused on creativity and wellbeing, with 4,000 visitors since September 2023.
    4. Green Hearts in Mile Cross: Partnership creating seven new community gardens, improving biodiversity, reducing fly-tipping, and fostering community action.
    5. Community insights: Insights from community connectors have informed various initiatives, including employment support and age-friendly city work.
    6. Community action: 131 events held and 35 people supported into regular volunteering.
    7. Support for social enterprises: Workshops and one-to-one support delivered by FUSE, bringing an additional £137k into the city’s social enterprises.
    8. Business support: Startup and growth support provided to 189 businesses and 74 entrepreneurs.
    9. Employment support: 21 long-term unemployed individuals helped into employment, with 66 receiving training or volunteering support through the Brighter Futures project.
    10. Neighbourhood cleanliness: Improved 52 communal bin facilities and piloted CCTV enforcement to reduce fly-tipping, with 57 new street bins being installed.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –