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Category: housing

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Charges – Breach Domestic violence order – Karama

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force has arrested a 19-year-old male in relation to a domestic violence incident that occurred in Karama this morning.

    About 12:50am, police received reports of a disturbance at residence in Karama involving a group allegedly armed with weapons. The group were reportedly armed with a bow and allegedly threw bottles and loosed arrows at the home. One of the offenders is known to one of the victims.

    General duties and Dog Operations Unit members commenced investigations and subsequently located the 19-year-old man at a residence in Gunn. He was arrested for Breach domestic violence order and was remanded in custody to appear in Darwin Local Court tomorrow.

    Investigations remain ongoing.

    If anyone has any information in relation to this incident police urge you to make contact on 131 444. You can anonymously report crime via Crime Stopper by calling 1800 333 000.

    If you or someone you know are experiencing difficulties due to domestic violence, support services are available, including, but not limited to, 1800RESPECT (1800737732) or Lifeline 131 114.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Address to the Catholic Social Services Australia Conference, Sydney

    Source: Australian Treasurer

    Thank you for the opportunity to address you today. I acknowledge the Gadigal people of the Eora nation and pay my respects to all First Nations people present. Their connection to community and country reminds us of our ongoing responsibility to care for each other.

    The Gospel of Matthew teaches us powerfully:

    ‘Truly, I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ (Matthew 25:40)

    This teaching resonates deeply with Australia’s ideals of fairness and community. Yet, our society today faces a significant challenge: inequality. Inequality matters profoundly – not just economically, but morally, socially, and spiritually. It shapes opportunities, influences life outcomes, and determines who shares in our national prosperity.

    In reflecting upon inequality today, I’d like to begin with a thought experiment developed by the Dutch economist Jan Pen.

    Imagine all Australians marching in a one‑hour parade, their height reflecting their wealth.

    At first, you wouldn’t see anyone – the poorest Australians, submerged by debt, would be underground. Several minutes would pass before you see people the height of tiny insects, representing those with minimal savings and precarious jobs. At half‑time, the parade participants would be barely waist‑high, reflecting an average wealth level that is far below what many expect.

    It isn’t until the last few minutes that the parade gets dramatic. Australians become giants, several metres tall, owning investment properties and multiple cars. In the last seconds, billionaires appear, their heads literally in the clouds. The richest Australian would tower over 46 kilometres high – far above Mt Everest.

    This image vividly captures the scale and drama of inequality in Australia today.

    The historical journey of Australian inequality

    Yet it was not always like this. As I documented in my book Battlers and Billionaires, Australian history shows fluctuations in inequality, shaped by policy, events, and the collective actions of citizens.

    When British settlers first arrived in 1788, inequality was limited – not due to idealism, but survival. Governor Arthur Phillip’s invitations to dinner famously concluded, ‘Please bring your own bread,’ reflecting the scarcity of resources and the reality that inequality was limited by necessity.

    Yet inequality quickly rose through the nineteenth century, driven by land distribution favouring the wealthy. Under Governor Lachlan Macquarie, who ruled the colony from 1810 to 1821, more than half the land granted went to just the top 10 per cent of settlers. By the late nineteenth century, disparities between landowners and labourers were immense. Historian Stuart Macintyre describes colossal extremes between the luxurious life of pastoralists like Richard Casey and the hard labour endured by workers like Jock Neilson, who struggled through bush labour with minimal wages and harsh living conditions.

    The early twentieth century brought change. In 1907, the Harvester Judgement established a basic wage designed to lift families out of poverty. Australia saw the creation of institutions such as the Commonwealth Conciliation and Arbitration Court, introducing worker rights into the national conscience. Still, stark inequalities remained, with large segments of society excluded from prosperity.

    However, the post‑war period between the 1940s and 1970s marked what economists call the ‘Great Compression.’ Strong unions, progressive taxation, expanded public services, and affordable housing policies dramatically reduced inequality. For several decades, Australians experienced significant upward social mobility and rising standards of living for the majority.

    Yet since the 1980s, Australia has seen what economists describe as a ‘Great Divergence,’ reversing the gains of earlier decades. Today, the top 1 per cent of income earners receive nearly 10 per cent of national income, nearly doubling their share from 40 years ago. Wealth inequality is even more extreme, with the richest fifth owning more than 60 times the wealth of the bottom fifth.

    This widening gap is not just economic – it profoundly affects people’s everyday lives. Those at the bottom face greater health challenges, including a stark difference in life expectancy – Australians in the richest fifth of the population live an average of 6 years longer than those in the poorest fifth. The poorest Australians have 7 fewer teeth on average due to poor dental care. In education, the wealth gap translates into substantial resource disparities between affluent and poorer communities.

    Why inequality matters

    Inequality does not simply represent a difference in wealth; it shapes our society. Excessive inequality erodes social cohesion, reducing empathy and undermining community bonds. When wealth is concentrated among a few, society becomes fragmented. Our sense of collective responsibility diminishes, and the fabric that binds us as Australians weakens.

    Catholic social teaching stresses the inherent dignity of every person, the importance of community, and the imperative to act justly towards one another. From Pope Francis’ call for inclusive economies to teachings on the common good, Catholic faith underscores the urgency of addressing rising inequality.

    For too many Australians, the promise of a fair go – the belief that effort and hard work determine success, not birth or background – has felt increasingly out of reach. Inequality is not just an abstract economic issue; it affects our communities, our health, our opportunities, and our sense of national cohesion.

    No government is perfect, but I want to argue today that ours has done more to address inequality than any government in well over a decade.

    Taking office 3 years ago, on the tail of the Covid pandemic, we have acted decisively to ensure that prosperity is shared more fairly across our society.

    Lifting wages and supporting secure work

    One of the most direct ways to reduce inequality is by lifting wages and ensuring job security. Since coming to office, the Albanese government has delivered consecutive wage increases for 2.6 million Australians, particularly benefiting low‑ and middle‑income earners. These pay rises ensured that minimum wage workers were not left behind as the cost of living rises.

    Furthermore, our government has tackled insecure work by introducing stronger protections for casual employees who want to transition to permanent work, establishing minimum standards for gig economy workers, and enforcing ‘same job, same pay’ provisions to prevent labour hire workers from being exploited. These reforms help ensure that Australians can rely on stable incomes, reducing the financial precarity that fuels inequality.

    A fairer tax system

    Tax policy plays a crucial role in shaping economic fairness. The Albanese government has delivered tax cuts that benefit every Australian taxpayer, allowing people to keep more of what they earn while ensuring that the system remains progressive.

    This approach contrasts with our predecessors, whose tax policies disproportionately benefited the highest earners, widening the gap between rich and poor. By maintaining a fair and responsible tax structure, we can fund essential public services while ensuring that the most fortunate Australians contribute their fair share.

    Strengthening the social safety net

    A strong, targeted welfare system is essential to reducing inequality, and our government has taken decisive action to support those who need it most. We have increased JobSeeker and other income support payments, ensuring that Australians doing it tough can afford the basics. Recognising the unique challenges faced by older Australians, we have also expanded eligibility for higher JobSeeker rates for those over 55, providing more security and dignity in later years.

    Rent assistance has been increased by over 40 per cent, helping Australians struggling with rising housing costs. Single parents have received greater support through extended access to the parenting payment, making it easier for them to balance work and caregiving responsibilities without falling into poverty. These targeted measures lift Australians up rather than trapping them in cycles of disadvantage.

    Investing in affordable housing

    Housing inequality is one of the most pressing economic issues facing Australia today. The Albanese government has responded with the largest investment in social and affordable housing in more than a decade. Through the Housing Australia Future Fund, we are building over 55,000 new social and affordable homes, directly addressing homelessness and housing stress.

    Beyond construction, we have strengthened renters’ rights, introducing minimum rental standards, limiting rent increases to once per year, and requiring genuine grounds for eviction. By making renting fairer and ensuring more Australians have access to stable, affordable housing, we are creating a foundation for economic security and social mobility.

    Early childhood education and skills training

    Breaking the cycle of inequality starts with education. That’s why we have delivered cheaper childcare for 96 per cent of families with children in early education – an investment that not only reduces financial strain but also ensures that more children, regardless of their family’s income, start life with the educational support they need.

    In schools, we have delivered on the promise of the Gonski report by ensuring that all schools are funded to the schooling resource standard. This isn’t just about money, it’s about delivering the resources required to drive reform. We know that Australia’s OECD PISA scores have been slipping backwards for the past quarter‑century. If we do not turn this around, the most vulnerable stand to suffer most.

    Our government has also committed to over half a million fee‑free TAFE places, ensuring that Australians can gain the skills needed for secure, well‑paying jobs. By making education more accessible, we are expanding opportunities for people from all backgrounds, ensuring that no one is locked out of good jobs because they cannot afford the necessary training.

    Fairer pay for women

    We cannot talk about overall economic inequality without considering gender inequality. The Albanese government has delivered historic pay rises for aged care and early childhood education workers – sectors dominated by women – while expanding paid parental leave to 26 weeks by 2026 and adding superannuation to government‑paid parental leave. These measures help to close the gender wealth gap, ensuring that women are not financially penalised for caring responsibilities. The gender pay gap is still too high, but it is also at an all‑time low.

    Tackling the cost of living

    Inequality is exacerbated when basic essentials become unaffordable. That’s why we have delivered targeted cost‑of‑living relief, including $300 in energy bill relief for every household and cheaper medicines that allow millions of Australians to buy 2 months’ worth of prescription medication for the price of one. We have also ensured that HECS‑HELP loans will never grow faster than wages, reducing the financial burden on young Australians starting their careers.

    Another major reform is our work in the energy sector. By expanding investment in renewable energy and breaking down barriers to new market entrants, we are reducing energy costs for consumers while ensuring a transition to a cleaner economy. High energy prices disproportionately impact low‑income Australians, and our efforts to foster a more competitive and efficient energy market are directly reducing cost‑of‑living pressures.

    Historically, reducing inflation in Australia meant higher unemployment. In the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s, bouts of inflation were met by job losses. Often, it took a recession to bring prices under control. Yet this time is different. Uniquely in Australian history, we have brought inflation under control while maintaining what economists call ‘full employment’. We have tamed inflation while creating over one million jobs. Unemployment remains low, and the participation rate is at a record high. This is a remarkable achievement for our nation.

    Investing in health equity

    Health disparities are one of the most damaging consequences of inequality, with lower‑income Australians facing shorter life expectancies and higher rates of chronic illness. Our government has made the largest investment in bulk billing in Medicare’s history, restoring affordable access to GPs for millions of Australians. We have also established new urgent care clinics and expanded mental health services, ensuring that healthcare is based on need, not wealth.

    Competition reforms to reduce inequality

    A truly fair economy is one where businesses compete on a level playing field, ensuring that consumers and small businesses are not left behind. Monopolies increase inequality by transferring resources from consumers (the many) to shareholders (the few). The Albanese government has prioritised competition reform to prevent market concentration from deepening inequality.

    One of our key achievements has been strengthening competition in the grocery sector. By increasing regulatory oversight and cracking down on anti‑competitive behaviour by major supermarket chains, we are ensuring fairer prices at the checkout. We know that when competition declines, consumers pay more, and smaller businesses struggle. Our policies ensure that Australian families are not subject to artificially inflated food prices while smaller retailers have a fair chance to succeed.

    Through the biggest overhaul of merger laws in half a century and a revitalised National Competition Policy, we are putting downward pressure on prices and increasing fairness. This approach reflects our commitment to an economy that works for everyone, not just those at the top.

    A commitment to evidence‑based solutions

    A key principle of our government is ensuring that policies are grounded in evidence, not ideology. That is why we have created the Australian Centre for Evaluation, and committed to expanding the use of randomised trials in policymaking, ensuring that every dollar spent on social programs delivers real results. By rigorously evaluating what works, we can scale up the most effective initiatives, ensuring that public investment leads to meaningful reductions in inequality.

    Conclusion: a shared moral and national imperative

    Inequality is a profound challenge – but not insurmountable. Australian history reminds us that inequality is never inevitable. It expands or shrinks based on the decisions we make collectively as a society.

    There is much more to do, but I have given you a flavour today of what we have already done together. The Albanese government has chosen to lift wages, invest in housing and education, strengthen social protections, reform competition, and deliver targeted cost‑of‑living relief. These policies lift people up – not just economically, but socially and morally.

    As the Gospel of Matthew reminds us, true compassion is measured by our actions towards ‘the least of these.’ We must constantly ask ourselves: Are our policies fair? Are our communities inclusive? Is every Australian being given the chance to thrive?

    The Albanese government is committed to answering these questions positively – not just with words, but through meaningful action. Together, we can create a society where dignity, justice, and opportunity are the lived reality for every Australian.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Address to the Corones’ Law Competition Reform event, Sydney

    Source: Australian Treasurer

    I acknowledge the Gadigal of the Eora Nation. I pay my respects to Elders past and present and extend that respect to First Nations people taking part in today’s event.

    Fresh out of law school, I had the privilege of working as one of Justice Michael Kirby’s High Court associates. I answered the phone, put thousands of letters in envelopes, made hundreds of cups of Ceylon Orange Pekoe tea and occasionally had the chance to do some legal research (Leigh 2016).

    One of the things I learned was that lawyers would be lost without resources like Corones’ Competition Law (Svetiev 2023). Pages dog‑eared and tabbed to death, Corones is a trusted source of how the courts have ruled and how arguments have been won and lost.

    Corones texts also stand as a record of reform. Over many editions, it has captured everything from judgments on the original 1974 legislation, to reforms allowing third parties to access infrastructure in the 1990s, to the introduction of criminal cartel sanctions in the 2000s.

    And today, a new round of competition reforms takes shape. This includes the new merger regime – the largest shakeup of Australia’s merger settings in half a century. And it includes a revitalised National Competition Policy agenda. These are the 2 areas I want to cover today, with a focus on the microdata underpinning these macro reforms.

    Building an innovative economy

    Ultimately, competition reform is about improving the long‑term prosperity of the Australian people. This means getting the policy settings right if we want to build a stronger, more resilient and dynamic economy.

    Think of the end‑game as more like Lego than Monopoly. In Monopoly, one person gets everything while everyone else watches in frustration. In Lego, all the players get to build something – though in both cases, stepping on a piece can be painful.

    As US congressman Jake Auchincloss put it, ‘Everybody, when they think about playing with Legos, has this sense of creativity and empowerment.’ (Klein 2025)

    Competitive markets help ensure Australians pay fair prices for goods and services (Leigh 2024a). Without competition, businesses can charge whatever they like – kind of like airport food courts, where a ham and cheese sandwich requires a mortgage.

    Competition also promotes choice and freedom.

    The challenge is Australia’s competitiveness has been declining since the 2000s, while market concentration has nearly doubled since 2010 (Chalmers and Leigh 2024).

    Using microdata to get a better picture

    The Australian Government’s establishment of a Competition Taskforce within the Treasury in 2023 reflects the importance we place on competition reform and finding solutions.

    In just over a year, the Competition Taskforce has made significant contributions.

    This includes using microdata to identify competition issues and develop tailored policy and regulatory responses (Leigh 2024b).

    For example, the Competition Taskforce has relied on data to:

    • develop a robust evidence base on the prevalence and use of non‑compete clauses in Australian labour contracts to inform policy (Andrews and Jarvis 2023, ABS 2024)
    • provide new and powerful insights into how competition can reduce airfares (Majeed, Breunig and Domazet 2024)
    • explain patterns and trends in mergers and show how competition has declined in Australia (Competition Taskforce 2024).

    Understanding competition

    Unit‑level records that track businesses and households over time allow granular analysis of the way policies are influencing the economy.

    Using bigger datasets, more refined econometric techniques and most up to date theories, economists have provided new insights on trends in market concentration and the relationship between competition and productivity.

    For example, researchers found an increase in market power partly explained Australia’s productivity growth slowdown. Industries with the greatest increase in concentration also had the greatest increases in markups (Hambur 2021).

    In this context, high‑growth firms act like Lego builders in the economy – constantly assembling, adapting, and expanding their creations. Rather than dominating like a monopoly, these firms thrive by snapping together innovative ideas, new markets, and fresh talent, driving the majority of turnover and employment growth.

    Typically small and young, they grow by more than 20 per cent over a three‑year period, often reshaping the landscape and challenging the older, more rigid structures of established incumbents. Think of them as the startups disrupting the economy – just as streaming services disrupted DVDs, Uber disrupted taxis, and toddlers disrupt your ability to get a full night’s sleep. As vital builders of sales and employment, a decline in high growth firms can lead to a less dynamic, less flexible economy (Majeed et al., 2021).

    Concentration hot spots

    The Competition Taskforce is working with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission to develop a microdata screening tool to identify concentration hot spots. This innovative tool leverages the increasingly detailed geospatial data that the Australian Bureau of Statistics has added to its microdata assets.

    The resulting tool will identify regions or segments of the economy that are already very concentrated, where further market consolidation through mergers and acquisitions poses the greatest risk to competition. Concentration hotspots are like a heat map of where Monopoly is being played a little too well, allowing policymakers to find solutions before someone tries to build hotels on every property.

    The Taskforce’s use of administrative data to systematically understand economic activity at the local level will be a novel approach to competition policy both in Australia and among our peers. It will complement the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s thorough knowledge of markets developed through its many inquiries and day‑to‑day experience administering the competition laws.

    This hot‑spot tool should help the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission administer the new merger system and inform decisions about the sectors requiring mandatory notification. After all, if a Monopoly player already owns Park Place (or Park Lane), it’s best for the other players that they don’t own all the other dark blue properties. When monopolists dominate the board, it can be expensive for everyone else in the economy to move forward.

    These examples showcase how increased availability of microdata has transformed the way we can use empirical evidence in the policy decision making process: to better identify issues, understand the problems, and develop effective and targeted solutions.

    Microdata gives us the tools and understanding to target policies.

    National Competition Policy

    Building a more productive, dynamic and resilient economy and giving Australian consumers access to a wider range of higher quality products and services at lower prices from across the country and overseas requires collaboration and trust.

    That is why Australian, state and territory governments have been working together to coordinate competition reform efforts under a revitalised National Competition Policy agenda.

    Almost 30 years ago, states, territories and the Commonwealth agreed to put competition policy front and centre by agreeing to the National Competition Policy following the Hilmer Report. This was the era of economic reform, as well as grunge music, dial‑up internet, Blockbuster video rentals, Tamagotchis, and arguing over whether Ross and Rachel were really on a break.

    The original Hilmer reforms outlined a set of competition principles that transformed our economy in ways we largely take for granted today. These included structural reform of public monopolies, introducing competitive neutrality so that government businesses do not enjoy unfair advantages over their private peers, arrangements for third‑party access to nationally significant infrastructure, and an obligation on all governments to review and reform laws that restrict competition.

    These reforms, which focused on removing regulatory barriers in the non‑traded sector, were credited with boosting Australia’s GDP by 2.5 per cent – equivalent to around $5,000 per household per year today. That’s basically the economic equivalent of finding an extra $50 in your jeans – twice a week, every week.

    Commonwealth, state and territory treasurers agreed in November to revitalise National Competition Policy to drive growth, improve choice and put downward pressure on prices (Chalmers 2024). Renewing the government’s commitment to put competition policy front and centre once again but tailored for the new challenges and opportunities of the modern economy – we’re now a digital economy, we’re looking for ways to make the transition to net zero at least cost, and we have a growing care and support economy.

    We have also updated the original National Competition Principles to drive better outcomes for the community, requiring governments to consider the competition impacts of government decisions and establish protections against poorly managed privatisations, empower consumers and address remaining barriers to the movement of goods, services and workers across the country.

    Competition reform isn’t straightforward. If it was easy, past governments would have done it already. Competition reform can be like assembling flat‑pack furniture – you know it’ll be worth it in the end, but along the way, there’s a lot of frustration and some pieces don’t seem to fit where they should.

    Trajectory of the government’s competition reforms

    This recommits governments to a new wave of pro‑competitive reforms over the next decade. Work is already underway on a first tranche of 5 priority reforms to ease the cost‑of‑living pressure and reduce regulatory complexity. The 5 pillars are:

    • Streamlining commercial planning and zoning systems to improve competition by encouraging firm entry and expansion and reducing business and regulatory costs.
    • Lowering barriers to the adoption of international and overseas standards in regulation. As a first step, we are fast‑tracking the recognition of equivalent or superior overseas product safety standards, rather than relying only on domestic standards, to deliver safer and cheaper products. Following this, we will be working collaboratively to identify the priority sectors for the next phase of this reform.
    • Supporting modern methods of construction such as prefab and modular by levelling the regulatory playing field with traditional methods of construction, unlocking time and cost savings, overcoming labour shortages and boosting lagging construction productivity.
    • A nationally consistent worker screening check to boost labour mobility for care workers.
    • Developing broader rights to repair, including for agricultural products, which could reduce repair costs and waste by providing consumers and businesses more choice for repair services.

    State and territory reforms are backed by the government’s $900 million National Productivity Fund. This allows for the fiscal benefits of these reforms – which mostly flow to the Commonwealth – to be shared with those states and territories that choose to implement them. The idea is to encourage states and territories to undertake meaningful reforms for the benefit of the Australian people and the economy.

    And this is just the start. The government will continue to work closely with industry and state and territories to build a more productive economy through national pro‑competitive reform options.

    Further reform rounds will be informed by community consultation and the Productivity Commission’s 5 new inquiries.

    They include inquiries into:

    • creating a more dynamic and resilient economy
    • building a skilled and adaptable workforce
    • harnessing data and digital technology
    • delivering quality care more efficiently, and
    • investing in cheaper, cleaner energy and the net zero transformation.

    Significant benefits flow from National Competition Policy

    Significant benefits will flow from a revitalised National Competition Policy.

    To help us understand the magnitude of the benefits, the Productivity Commission modelled the impact of 19 potential competition reforms (Productivity Commission 2024).

    The Productivity Commission estimated that a revitalised National Competition Policy could result in an ongoing boost to GDP of up to $45 billion, an increase of up to $5,000 for every Australian household per year as well as lower prices by an estimated 0.7 to 1.5 per cent in the long run. This is significant. It is an enduring benefit for consumers, businesses and the economy. On‑par with the highly successful reform efforts of the 1990s and 2000s.

    And the benefits of the reforms extend beyond their economic effect. For example, reforms in the care and support economy would increase the quality of care in areas such as health and disability support.

    There is tough reform work to be done, but the benefits of delivering meaningful reform speak for themselves.

    Closing remarks

    I’d like to leave you with this final thought.

    When Danish carpenter Ole Kirk Christiansen created his iconic company almost a century ago, he named it LEGO after the Danish phrase ‘leg godt’, which means ‘play well’ (LEGO n.d).

    Christiansen understood that openness, rather than monopolistic drive, enabled dynamic, productive and constructive play that benefitted everyone involved.

    Instead of a blood sport where players knocked each other out one by one, participants benefitted when they could create, learn, collaborate and share ideas.

    Today, Lego is the world’s most popular toy, with consumers buying over 30 billion blocks per year.

    Raising my 3 sons, I found that an afternoon spent playing Lego inspired creativity and laughter. Our evenings spent playing Monopoly often ended in tears.

    In much the same way, we are all grappling with changes that are shifting the parameters of the playing field. The digital economy and transition to net zero are equivalent to that moment in time that Congressman Auchincloss described as ‘…throwing the board’, when people ‘get so frustrated that another person – out of, frankly, pure luck – ends up on Park Place and is able to just extract rents every time you cross or you pass go’ (Klein 2025).

    Through microdata‑driven analysis of market concentration, revitalised National Competition Policy, and the continuation of productive collaboration between the Commonwealth, state and territory governments, competition should foster innovation and opportunity. More Lego, less Monopoly.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why did the Israel-Hamas ceasefire fall apart? It was never going to solve the root causes of the conflict

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Marika Sosnowski, Postdoctoral research fellow, The University of Melbourne

    When a ceasefire in the war between Hamas and Israel finally came into effect on January 19, the world breathed a collective sigh of relief.

    However, that ceasefire agreement, and its associated negotiations, have now been cast aside by new Israeli attacks on Gaza.

    A statement from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said the strikes came after Hamas’ “repeated refusals” to “release our hostages”, and the group’s rejection of all proposals presented by US President Donald Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff.

    Even before Israel cut off all humanitarian aid and electricity to Gaza in the past two weeks, Hamas claimed it had not met the levels of humanitarian aid, shelter and fuel it agreed to provide in the terms of the ceasefire. However, this is a distraction from a larger issue.

    This ceasefire was always more like a strangle contract than a negotiated agreement between equal parties. Israel, as the party with far greater military and political power, has always had the upper hand.

    And while the first phase of the ceasefire, which lasted 42 days, saw the successful release of 33 hostages held by Hamas in exchange for nearly 1,800 Palestinian prisoners, the ceasefire also enabled Israel to use it for its own political and military ends.

    Buying time

    The most common conventional concern about ceasefires is that the parties to a conflict will use them for their own ends.

    Typically, the worry is that non-state armed groups, such as Hamas, will use the halt in violence to buy time to regroup, rearm and rebuild their strength to continue fighting.

    But states such as Israel have this ability, too. Even though they have standing armies that might not need to regroup and rearm in the same way, states can use this time to manoeuvre in the international arena – a space largely denied to non-state actors.

    Trump’s rise to power in the US has seemingly given the Israeli government carte blanche to proceed in ways that were arguably off limits to previous US presidents who were also largely supportive of Israel’s actions.

    This includes the plan of forcing Gaza’s population out of the strip. This plan was raised earlier in the war by Trump advisor Jared Kushner and Israeli officials as a supposed humanitarian initiative.

    Trump has now repeated the call to relocate Palestinians from Gaza to Egypt and Jordan – or possibly other parts of Africa – and for the US to take “ownership” of the coastal strip and turn it into the “Riviera of the Middle East”.

    On the face of it, this plan would be a war crime. But even if it is never fully implemented, the fact it is being promoted by Trump after many years of domestic Israeli and international opprobrium shows how political ideas once thought unacceptable can take on a life of their own.

    Political and military maneouvering

    Israel has also used the ceasefire to pursue larger political and military goals in Gaza, the West Bank, southern Lebanon and Syria.

    Even though the ceasefire did reduce overall levels of violence in Gaza, Israel has continued to carry out attacks on targets in the strip.

    It has also escalated the construction of settlements and carried out increasingly violent operations in the West Bank. In addition, there have been egregious attacks on Palestinian residents in Israel.

    And though nearly 1,800 Palestinian prisoners were released during the ceasefire, Israel was holding more than 9,600 Palestinians in detention on “security grounds” at the end of 2024. Thousands more Palestinians are being held by Israel in administrative detention, which means without trial or charge.

    During the ceasefire, Israel also accelerated efforts to evict the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, from its headquarters in East Jerusalem. And the Israeli government has also proposed increasingly draconian laws aimed at restraining the work of Israeli human rights organisations.

    On the military front, the ceasefire arguably alleviated some pressure on Israel, giving it time to consolidate its territorial and security gains against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon and in Syria.

    In the past two months, two deadlines for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon passed. Israel has instead proposed establishing a buffer zone on Lebanese territory and has begun destroying villages, uprooting olive trees and building semi-permanent outposts along the border.

    In a speech in February, Netanyahu also demanded the “complete demilitarisation of southern Syria” following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. And Defence Minister Israel Katz said this month Israel would keep its troops in southern Syria to “protect” residents from any threats from the new Syrian regime.

    Be careful what you wish for

    While Palestinians are known for their sumud – usually translated as steadfastness or tenacity – there is a limit to what humans can endure. The war, and subsequent ceasefires, have created a situation in which Gazans may have to put the survival and wellbeing of themselves and their families above their desire to stay in Palestine.

    There is a general assumption that ceasefires are positive and humanitarian in nature. But ceasefires are not panaceas. In reality, they are a least-worst option for stopping the violence of war for often just a brief period.

    A ceasefire was never going to be the solution to the decades-old conflict between Israel and the Palestinians. Instead, it has turned out to be part of the problem.

    Marika Sosnowski 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 did the Israel-Hamas ceasefire fall apart? It was never going to solve the root causes of the conflict – https://theconversation.com/why-did-the-israel-hamas-ceasefire-fall-apart-it-was-never-going-to-solve-the-root-causes-of-the-conflict-249944

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: UPDATE — NVIDIA, Alphabet and Google Collaborate on the Future of Agentic and Physical AI

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN JOSE, Calif., March 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — GTC — Building on their longstanding partnership, NVIDIA, Alphabet and Google today announced new initiatives to advance AI, democratize access to AI tools, speed the development of physical AI and transform industries including healthcare, manufacturing and energy.

    Engineers and researchers throughout Alphabet are working closely with technical teams at NVIDIA to use AI and simulation to develop robots with grasping skills, reimagine drug discovery, optimize energy grids and more. Employing the NVIDIA Omniverse™, NVIDIA Cosmos™ and NVIDIA Isaac™ platforms, teams from Google DeepMind, Isomorphic Labs, Intrinsic and X’s moonshot Tapestry will discuss milestones from their respective collaborations at the NVIDIA GTC global AI conference.

    To power research and AI production efforts for its customers, Alphabet’s Google Cloud will be among the first to adopt the NVIDIA GB300 NVL72 rack-scale solution and NVIDIA RTX PRO™ 6000 Blackwell Server Edition GPU, also announced today at GTC.

    NVIDIA will be the first industry partner to adopt SynthID, a Google DeepMind AI technology that embeds digital watermarks directly into AI-generated images, audio, text or video.

    “I’m proud of our ongoing and deep partnership with NVIDIA, which spans the early days of Android and our cutting-edge AI collaborations across Alphabet,” said Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google and Alphabet. “I’m really excited about the next phase of our partnership as we work together on agentic AI, robotics and bringing the benefits of AI to more people around the world.”

    “Alphabet and NVIDIA have a longstanding partnership that extends from building AI infrastructure and software to advancing the use of AI in the largest industries,” said Jensen Huang, founder and CEO of NVIDIA. “It’s a great joy to see Google and NVIDIA researchers and engineers collaborate to solve incredible challenges, from drug discovery to robotics.”

    Developing Responsible AI and Open Models
    Google DeepMind and NVIDIA are working to build trust in generative AI through content transparency.

    NVIDIA will be the first external user of Google DeepMind’s SynthID, which embeds digital watermarks directly into AI-generated images, audio, text and video. SynthID helps preserve the integrity of outputs from NVIDIA Cosmos world foundation models, available on build.nvidia.com, helping to safeguard against misinformation and misattribution — all without compromising video quality.

    Google DeepMind and NVIDIA also partnered to optimize Gemma, Google’s family of lightweight, open models, to run on NVIDIA GPUs. The recent launch of Gemma 3 marks a significant leap forward for open innovation.

    NVIDIA has played a key role in making Gemma even more accessible for developers. Supercharged by the NVIDIA AI platform, Gemma is available as a highly optimized NVIDIA NIM™ microservice, harnessing the power of the open-source NVIDIA TensorRT-LLM library for exceptional inference performance.

    In addition, this deep engineering collaboration will extend to optimizing Gemini-based workloads on NVIDIA accelerated computing via Vertex AI.

    The Age of Intelligent Robots
    Intrinsic is an Alphabet company focused on making intelligently adaptive AI for robotics usable and valuable for manufacturers across industries. Today, the majority of the world’s installed industrial robots are manually programmed, with every movement hard-coded in a complex, expensive process.

    Partnering with NVIDIA, the teams have built deeper and more intuitive developer workflows for Intrinsic Flowstate to support NVIDIA Isaac Manipulator foundation models for a universal robot grasping capability. Using foundation models for robotics will significantly reduce application development time and improve flexibility, with AI that can adapt effortlessly. At GTC, Intrinsic will also share an early OpenUSD framework streaming connection between Intrinsic Flowstate and NVIDIA Omniverse — enabling real-time visualization of robot workcells across platforms.

    Concurrently, NVIDIA and Google DeepMind are announcing a collaboration with Disney Research to develop Newton, an open-source physics engine accelerated by the NVIDIA Warp framework that is compatible with MuJoCo. Powered by Newton, MuJoCo will accelerate robotics machine learning workloads by more than 70x compared with MuJoCo’s existing GPU-accelerated simulator, MJX.

    Applying Innovation to Real-World Challenges
    Isomorphic Labs, founded by Google DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis, is reimagining drug discovery with AI. It has built a state-of-the-art drug design engine housed on Google Cloud with NVIDIA GPUs to enable the scale and performance needed to continue developing groundbreaking AI models that can help advance human health.

    Tapestry, X’s moonshot for the electric grid, is building AI-powered products for a greener and more reliable future grid. Tapestry and NVIDIA are exploring methods for increasing the speed and accuracy of electric grid simulations.

    This joint effort will focus on the challenges of integrating new energy sources and expanding grid capacity to meet the growing demands of data centers and AI, while helping ensure grid stability. The companies will evaluate potential solutions, including using AI to optimize the interconnection process, with the goal of enhancing the planning and modernization of energy infrastructure for a more sustainable future.

    The Next Generation of AI-Optimized Infrastructure
    Building on its commitment to provide customers with the most advanced AI infrastructure, Google Cloud will be one of the first companies to offer the latest instances of NVIDIA Blackwell GPUs — NVIDIA GB300 NVL72 and NVIDIA RTX PRO 6000 Blackwell Server Edition.

    Built on the groundbreaking Blackwell architecture introduced a year ago, Blackwell Ultra includes the NVIDIA GB300 NVL72 rack-scale solution and the NVIDIA HGX™ B300 NVL16 system. The GB300 NVL72 delivers 1.5x more AI performance than the NVIDIA GB200 NVL72, as well as increases Blackwell’s revenue opportunity by 50x for AI factories, compared with those built with NVIDIA Hopper™. NVIDIA RTX PRO 6000 Blackwell is the ultimate universal GPU for both AI and visual computing workloads across healthcare, manufacturing, retail, live broadcast and other industries.

    With last month’s preview launches of its A4 and A4X virtual machines, Google Cloud became the first cloud provider to offer both NVIDIA B200- and GB200-based instances. Now, A4 is generally available — with A4X coming soon — so customers can take advantage of Blackwell’s powerful performance with the added benefits of Google Cloud’s AI Hypercomputer.

    Google Cloud and NVIDIA have worked together to optimize popular open-source frameworks like JAX, a popular Python library for machine learning, and MaxText to run efficiently on NVIDIA GPUs at scale. MaxText, an advanced framework for scaling large models across massive GPU clusters, uses optimizations codeveloped with NVIDIA to enable efficient training on tens of thousands of GPUs.

    GTC attendees interested in learning more about Alphabet and NVIDIA’s work can visit the Google Cloud booth 914.

    About Alphabet Inc.
    Alphabet is a collection of companies, the largest of which is Google. Larry Page and Sergey Brin founded Google in September 1998 and the company is headquartered in Mountain View, Calif. Billions of people use its wide range of popular products and platforms each day, like Search, Ads, Chrome, Cloud, YouTube and Android.

    About NVIDIA
    NVIDIA (NASDAQ: NVDA) is the world leader in accelerated computing.

    For further information, contact:
    Cliff Edwards
    NVIDIA Corporation
    +1-415-699-2755
    cliffe@nvidia.com

    press@google.com

    Certain statements in this press release including, but not limited to, statements as to: the benefits, impact, availability, and performance of NVIDIA’s products, services, and technologies; and the collaboration between NVIDIA and Alphabet and the benefits and impact thereof are forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause results to be materially different than expectations. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially include: global economic conditions; our reliance on third parties to manufacture, assemble, package and test our products; the impact of technological development and competition; development of new products and technologies or enhancements to our existing product and technologies; market acceptance of our products or our partners’ products; design, manufacturing or software defects; changes in consumer preferences or demands; changes in industry standards and interfaces; unexpected loss of performance of our products or technologies when integrated into systems; as well as other factors detailed from time to time in the most recent reports NVIDIA files with the Securities and Exchange Commission, or SEC, including, but not limited to, its annual report on Form 10-K and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. Copies of reports filed with the SEC are posted on the company’s website and are available from NVIDIA without charge. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and speak only as of the date hereof, and, except as required by law, NVIDIA disclaims any obligation to update these forward-looking statements to reflect future events or circumstances.

    © 2025 NVIDIA Corporation. All rights reserved. NVIDIA, the NVIDIA logo, NVIDIA Cosmos, NVIDIA HGX, NVIDIA Hopper, NVIDIA Isaac, NVIDIA Omniverse, and NVIDIA RTX PRO are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of NVIDIA Corporation in the U.S. and/or other countries. Other company and product names may be trademarks of the respective companies with which they are associated. Features, pricing, availability, and specifications are subject to change without notice.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/611ce8d4-bb5c-47ff-85d5-591363b25467

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President Lai meets delegation led by Minister of Foreign Affairs Denzil Douglas of Saint Christopher and Nevis

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    Details
    2025-03-17
    President Lai meets Japan-ROC Diet Members’ Consultative Council Chairman Furuya Keiji
    On the afternoon of March 17, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Japanese House of Representatives Member and Japan-ROC Diet Members’ Consultative Council Chairman Furuya Keiji. In remarks, President Lai thanked the Consultative Council for doing its utmost to strengthen the relationship between Taiwan and Japan. He also stated that Taiwan and Japan are both part of the first island chain’s key line of defense, and in addition to continuing to bolster its economic strength and enhance its self-defense capabilities, Taiwan will work together with Japan and other like-minded countries to promote regional and global democracy, peace, and prosperity. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I would like to extend a warm welcome to Chairman Furuya, who is visiting us once again. I am also delighted to meet House of Councillors Member Yamamoto Junzo and House of Representatives Member Hiranuma Shojiro today. Although the Japanese Diet is currently in session, our distinguished guests overcame many hurdles and organized a delegation to attend the 2025 Yushan Forum and deliver speeches, providing valuable insights into issues of mutual concern in the Indo-Pacific region and demonstrating the support for Taiwan in the Diet. Here, I would like to express my deepest gratitude. During the Yushan Forum, it was especially inspiring when Chairman Furuya spoke Taiwanese when he emphasized that “if Taiwan has a problem, then Japan has a problem.” Over the past few years under Chairman Furuya’s leadership, the Consultative Council has done its utmost to strengthen the relationship between Taiwan and Japan. In addition to passing resolutions every year supporting Taiwan’s participation in the World Health Organization and Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), the council has established four internal research groups regarding the CPTPP, exchanges for women legislators, encouraging local-level exchanges, and the Taiwan Relations Act, using an issue-oriented approach to deepen Taiwan-Japan relations. Thanks to the Consultative Council’s long-term assistance and promotional efforts, the Japanese Ministry of Justice has announced that beginning this May, members of the Taiwanese overseas community in Japan included in the country’s family registry system may list “Taiwan” in the field designating their nationality or region of origin. This demonstrates the friendly relations between Taiwan and Japan, and the Taiwanese people will always remember the council’s continued concrete actions in support of Taiwan. In his remarks at the Yushan Forum today, Chairman Furuya mentioned that there are many areas in which Taiwan and Japan can engage in industrial cooperation. We can continue to deepen our partnership in semiconductors, energy, AI, unmanned aerial vehicles, and other areas related to economic security and supply chain resilience, all of which have significant room for cooperation, creating win-win situations for both Taiwan and Japan. As authoritarianism consolidates, democratic nations must come closer in solidarity. Taiwan and Japan are both part of the first island chain’s key line of defense. In addition to bolstering our economic strength and enhancing our self-defense capabilities, Taiwan will also work with Japan and other like-minded countries to promote regional and global democracy, peace, and prosperity. All of our distinguished guests are good friends of Taiwan, and are very familiar with Taiwan. I hope to continue working together with you all to carry Taiwan-Japan relations to an even higher level. Chairman Furuya then delivered remarks, first thanking President Lai for taking time out of his busy schedule to see them. He then noted that Japan, Taiwan, and quite a few other nations around the world changed leaders last year, and conditions around the world are becoming increasingly unstable. One cannot see what the world will be like a few years from now, he said, which is why he is counting so heavily on the strong leadership of President Lai. Chairman Furuya said that, in addition to collaboration in foreign affairs and security matters, economic cooperation between Taiwan and Japan is also very important. He mentioned new technologies, and said he had spoken quite a bit on the topic that very morning at the Yushan Forum. The clearest example, he said, is the establishment by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company of a wafer plant in Japan’s Kumamoto Prefecture, which has sparked robust economic activity. He added that cooperation addressing such matters as cyberattacks and supply chain resilience is also very important. Chairman Furuya noted that President Lai had mentioned in his remarks that beginning from May, Taiwanese overseas community members in Japan will be able to list “Taiwan” on their family registers. The chairman expressed his view that this is not a foreign affairs issue, but rather a human rights issue for the Taiwanese people, and an excellent way to show respect for Taiwan. He further noted President Lai’s mentioning of the four research groups that the Consultative Council has established, and said that these groups will ramp up their work. He also expressed hope that Taiwan and Japan will work together to address challenges that face both countries, such as issues pertaining to democracy and peace in the Taiwan Strait, so that they can together push for international peace and stability. Chairman Furuya stated that reciprocal visits by Taiwanese and Japanese people reached an all-time high last year. He said that in the future, in addition to further promoting local exchanges between the two countries, he also hopes that Japanese middle school and high school students planning to go on overseas study trips will choose Taiwan as their destination, because he feels that any student who visits Taiwan will become a fan of this place. Also in attendance was Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association Taipei Office Chief Representative Katayama Kazuyuki.

    Details
    2025-03-17
    President Lai addresses opening of 2025 Yushan Forum
    On the morning of March 17, President Lai Ching-te attended the opening of the 2025 Yushan Forum, the theme of which was “New Southbound Policy+: Taiwan, the Indo-Pacific, and a New World.” In remarks, President Lai stated that the New Southbound Policy has led to great success in economic and trade cooperation, professional exchanges, resource sharing, and building regional links. He said that in the past, Taiwanese industries went from moving westward across the Taiwan Strait, to shifting southbound, to working closer with the north, but that now, Taiwan is confidently stepping across the Pacific, reaching eastward, to the Americas and other regions. While staying firmly rooted in Taiwan, he said, Taiwan’s enterprises are expanding their global presence and marketing worldwide. The president stated that Taiwan will strive alongside its partners in democracy to bolster non-red supply chains and digital solidarity, and together respond to the threats and challenges posed by expanding authoritarianism. He indicated that the Yushan Forum is a place to share experiences, and more importantly, lay down firm foundations for exchanges and cooperation among participants’ countries to create greater stability for the region and greater prosperity for the world. A transcript of President Lai’s remarks follows: On behalf of all the people of Taiwan, I want to welcome our good friends joining us from around the world. Your presence shows support for a peaceful and stable Taiwan and a free and open Indo-Pacific region. The Yushan Forum has become more than just an important platform for the New Southbound Policy. Over these eight years, more than 3,600 participants from Taiwan and 28 other countries have helped deepen Taiwan’s connections with nations around the world. The New Southbound Policy has led to great success in economic and trade cooperation, professional exchanges, resource sharing, and building regional links. Looking ahead, the Yushan Forum will be taking on the important mission of carrying its legacy forward and transforming it into action. Not only must we turn consensus into action plans for close cooperation among countries in the region; we must also work with partners around the world to forge ahead with cooperative plans for mutual prosperity. We hope to envision a new world from Taiwan – and see Taiwan in this new world. We are also embracing an era of smart technology. The government sessions of this Yushan Forum are therefore centered around topics including smart healthcare, smart transportation, and resilient supply chains for semiconductors. Taiwan is intent on working side by side with other countries to face the challenges of this new era. Today’s Taiwan celebrates not only the democratic achievements that are recognized by the international community, but also our strengths in the semiconductor and other tech industries, which enable us to play a key role in restructuring global democratic supply chains and the economic order. We are building on Taiwan as a “silicon island” for semiconductors while accelerating innovation and AI applications for industry. These efforts will help Taiwan become an “AI island” as well. We are also developing forward-looking fields such as quantum technology and precision medicine, which will create an industry ecosystem that is highly competitive and innovative. The government will also develop economic models powered by innovation. This will help SMEs (small- and medium-sized enterprises) upgrade and transform through the power of digital transformation and net-zero transition. In the past, Taiwanese industries went from moving westward across the Taiwan Strait, to shifting southbound, to working closer with the north. But now, we are confidently stepping across the Pacific, reaching eastward, to the Americas and other regions. While staying firmly rooted in Taiwan, our enterprises are expanding their global presence and marketing worldwide. Taiwan will continue to engage with the world, and we welcome the world to come closer to Taiwan. As we gather here today, I am confident that we share the same goal: Through international cooperation, we hope to build an even more inclusive, resilient, prosperous Indo-Pacific, while jointly defending the democracy, freedom, and peace we so firmly believe in. I want to thank you all once again for supporting Taiwan. We will strive alongside our partners in democracy to bolster non-red supply chains and digital solidarity, and together respond to the threats and challenges posed by expanding authoritarianism. Yushan is also known as Jade Mountain. It is Taiwan’s highest peak and stands as firm as our unwavering spirit. During this critical time of global change and transformation, the Yushan Forum is a place where we can share our experiences, and more importantly, lay down firm foundations for exchanges and cooperation among our countries. This way, we can create greater stability for the region and greater prosperity for the world. I wish everyone a successful forum. Thank you. Also in attendance at the event were former Prime Minister of Denmark and Alliance of Democracies Foundation Chairman Anders Fogh Rasmussen, former Prime Minister of the Republic of Slovenia Janez Janša, Japan-ROC Diet Members’ Consultative Council Chairman Furuya Keiji, and American Institute in Taiwan Taipei Office Director Raymond Greene.

    Details
    2025-03-13
    President Lai attends Ministry of Foreign Affairs 2025 Spring Banquet  
    On the evening of March 13, President Lai Ching-te attended the Ministry of Foreign Affairs 2025 Spring Banquet for foreign ambassadors and representatives stationed in Taiwan. In remarks, President Lai thanked our diplomatic allies and like-minded countries for continuing to demonstrate their high regard and support for Taiwan at international venues. The president stated that a stronger Taiwan will be able to contribute even more to the world, explaining that is why he established the National Climate Change Committee, the Whole-of-Society Defense Resilience Committee, and the Healthy Taiwan Promotion Committee. He added that he hopes to pool our strengths so as to formulate national development strategies and enhance Taiwan’s international collaboration. The president also expressed hope of developing opportunities for cooperation with other countries across many domains to jointly advance democracy, peace, and prosperity throughout the region and around the world. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: Today is my first time attending the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spring Banquet since becoming president. It is a pleasure to be able to meet and socialize with esteemed guests from other countries and good friends from all sectors of Taiwan. The global landscape has changed rapidly over the past year. Geopolitical volatility, the restructuring of supply chains, technological advancements, and other factors have had a profound impact on nations’ strategic plans. I want to take this opportunity to thank our diplomatic allies and like-minded countries for continuing to demonstrate their high regard and support for Taiwan at international venues. Last month, the leaders of the United States and Japan, the US secretary of state and the foreign ministers of Japan and the Republic of Korea, and the G7 foreign ministers all issued joint statements emphasizing the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, underscoring Taiwan’s vital role in global progress and prosperity.  I would especially like to thank members of the diplomatic corps for working with us to build even closer partnerships between our countries. I have always believed that a stronger Taiwan will be able to contribute even more to the world. That is why, after taking office, I established the National Climate Change Committee, the Whole-of-Society Defense Resilience Committee, and the Healthy Taiwan Promotion Committee under the Office of the President. These committees continue to address global concerns and seek to solve important issues that impact our own people. I hope to pool our strengths so as to formulate national development strategies and enhance Taiwan’s international collaboration.  Last year, I visited our Pacific allies – the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Tuvalu, and the Republic of Palau. I deeply appreciated our friends’ warm hospitality and came to feel very deeply that we are like a family. Through local visits and mutual exchanges, we deepened our diplomatic alliances and cooperation, creating win-win outcomes. We also showed Taiwan’s determination to work with allies to tackle the many challenges related to climate change, net-zero transition, and digital transformation. At the start of this month, Taiwan hosted the first-ever workshop on whole-of-society defense resilience under the Global Cooperation and Training Framework. Experts and scholars from 30 countries participated in the discussions. I once again thank the diplomatic corps for their support and assistance. In the future, we look forward to developing opportunities for cooperation with other countries across many domains to jointly advance democracy, peace, and prosperity throughout the region and around the world. In the face of authoritarian expansion, Taiwan will continue to bolster its national defense capabilities. We will stand shoulder to shoulder with fellow democracies to demonstrate the strength of deterrence. We will also join hands to build non-red supply chains, strengthen our economic resilience, and promote an initiative on semiconductor supply chain partnerships for global democracies. All of this will ensure steady technological and economic development.  In my New Year’s Day address, I said that in this new year, we have many more brilliant stories of Taiwan to share with the world. Everyone gathered here tonight is a dear friend of Taiwan. And each of you plays an important role in the stories this land has to tell.  I am deeply grateful to you all for the incredible efforts you make in support of Taiwan. In so many ways, you connect Taiwan to the rest of the world and allow the world to see the many different sides of this amazing nation. I believe that through even deeper and more extensive cooperation, we will create many more wonderful stories of Taiwan and build an even brighter future together. I wish you all a pleasant evening. Also in attendance at the event were Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Ambassador Andrea Clare Bowman and other members of the foreign diplomatic corps in Taiwan.

    Details
    2025-03-04
    President Lai meets US Heritage Foundation founder Dr. Edwin Feulner
    On the afternoon of March 4, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by founder of the US-based Heritage Foundation Dr. Edwin Feulner. In remarks President Lai thanked the foundation for publishing the 2025 Index of Economic Freedom, in which Taiwan ranked fourth globally and which recognized Taiwan’s sound legal foundation and ideal investment environment. The president said that Taiwan and the United States are important economic and trade partners and engage closely in industrial exchange. The president also expressed hope to expand investment in and procurement from the US in such areas as high-tech, energy, and agricultural products, and to work with the US and other democratic partners to create more resilient and diverse semiconductor supply chains to address new circumstances. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: It is a pleasure to welcome Dr. Feulner back to Taiwan today. I recall meeting with Dr. Feulner and Heritage Foundation President Kevin Roberts here at the Presidential Office at the end of last February. We had a fruitful discussion on Taiwan-US relations and regional affairs. When President Donald Trump was elected for his first term, Dr. Feulner played a crucial role in the administration’s transition team. Today, I look forward to hearing his thoughts on possible ways to further deepen relations between Taiwan and the US. I would like to thank the Heritage Foundation for publishing the 2025 Index of Economic Freedom, in which Taiwan ranked fourth globally. The report also recognized Taiwan’s sound legal foundation and ideal investment environment. Taiwan and the US are important economic and trade partners and engage closely in industrial exchange. The Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company’s (TSMC) historic US$65 billion investment in Arizona–negotiated and finalized during President Trump’s first term–is a case in point. And today, TSMC Chairman C.C. Wei (魏哲家) and President Trump jointly announced that the company would be expanding its investment in the US with new facilities. Looking ahead, we hope to expand investment in and procurement from the US in such areas as high-tech, energy, and agricultural products. We also look forward to working with the US and other democratic partners to create more resilient and diverse semiconductor supply chains to address new circumstances. At present, we continue to face authoritarian expansionism. As a country that deeply loves and staunchly defends freedom, Taiwan will collaborate with the US and other like-minded countries to maintain regional peace and stability. I would like to thank President Trump for his recent joint statement with Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru, which emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. And last month, the US was also part of a G7 foreign ministers’ statement in which “they strongly opposed any attempts to change unilaterally the status quo using force.” We firmly believe that only peace attained through one’s own strength can truly be called peace. Currently, Taiwan’s defense budget stands at approximately 2.5 percent of GDP. Going forward, the government will prioritize special budget allocations to ensure that Taiwan’s defense budget exceeds 3 percent of GDP. Also, we will continue to reform national defense in the conviction that help comes most to those who help themselves. This will allow us to contribute even more to regional peace and stability. In closing, I once again thank Dr. Feulner for visiting and for demonstrating support of Taiwan. I wish you all a smooth and successful trip. Dr. Feulner then delivered remarks, first stating that on behalf of his successor, President Roberts, and all of his colleagues at the Heritage Foundation, it is his pleasure to present President Lai with the first copy of the 2025 Index of Economic Freedom. Pointing out that in the Index the Republic of China (Taiwan) is number four of 176 countries around the world in terms of its economic freedom, Dr. Feulner extended his congratulations to President Lai.  Dr. Feulner said he looks forward to a discussion about the present situation and how we can improve relations between the US and Taiwan. Dr. Feulner expressed his gratitude on hearing the wonderful announcement from TSMC, which was released right before his visit, that it will be expanding its investment in the US. In past trips, he said, he has had the opportunity to visit the TSMC headquarters in Taiwan, and fairly recently he has had the opportunity to view the site in Arizona where the construction continues and where the initial operations are beginning. He stated that they are proud to have TSMC now as an integral part of our responsible bilateral relationship. Dr. Feulner noted that while TSMC is of course very big, he also wants to express appreciation for all of the hundreds and hundreds of Taiwan-based companies that are strong, close partners throughout the US with American companies and with American people in terms of making a close and unified alliance of two freedom-loving countries.

    Details
    2025-03-04
    President Lai attends opening ceremony of GCTF Workshop on Whole-of-Society Resilience Building, Preparation, and Response
    On the morning of March 4, President Lai Ching-te attended the opening ceremony of the Global Cooperation and Training Framework (GCTF) Workshop on Whole-of-Society Resilience Building, Preparation, and Response. In remarks, President Lai stated that global challenges such as extreme weather, pandemics, and energy crises continue to emerge, and growing authoritarianism presents a grave threat to freedom-loving countries. These challenges have no borders, he said, and absolutely no single country can face them alone. The president said that as a responsible member of the international community, Taiwan is both willing and able to contribute even more to the democracy, peace, and prosperity of the world, and that the GCTF is an important platform where Taiwan can make those contributions by sharing its experiences with the rest of the world. President Lai indicated that Taiwan will join the forces of the central and local governments to enhance social resilience across the board, enhance disaster response capabilities in the community, and leverage its strengths to make contributions to the international community. He said that we are demonstrating to the world our determination to create an even more resilient Taiwan, and expressed hope to advance mutual assistance and exchanges with all the countries involved, so that we can together promote stability and prosperity around the world. A transcript of President Lai’s remarks follows: To begin, I would like to welcome more than 60 distinguished guests from 30 countries, as well as experts from Taiwan. You are all here for this GCTF workshop to discuss whole-of-society resilience building, preparation, and response. As a responsible member of the international community, Taiwan is both willing and able to contribute even more to the democracy, peace, and prosperity of the world. The GCTF is an important platform where Taiwan can make those contributions by sharing its experiences with the rest of the world. I want to thank our full GCTF partners, the United States, Japan, Australia, and Canada. Over the past several years, we have worked with even more countries through this framework and have expanded our exchanges into even more fields. Together, we have met all kinds of new challenges. I am confident that as our cooperation grows stronger, so will our ability to promote global progress. Each of today’s guests is contributing a vital force in that regard. I extend my sincere thanks to you all. Global challenges such as extreme weather, pandemics, and energy crises continue to emerge. And growing authoritarianism presents a grave threat to freedom-loving countries. These challenges have no borders, and absolutely no single country can face them alone. Taiwan holds a key position on the first island chain, and stands at the very frontline of the defense of democracy. With this joint workshop, we are demonstrating to the world our determination to create an even more resilient Taiwan. We are also aiming to advance our mutual assistance and exchanges with all the countries involved, so that we can make our societies more resilient and together promote stability and prosperity around the world. Moving forward, we will continue advancing the following three initiatives: First, we will join the forces of the central and local governments to enhance social resilience across the board. Just last year, I established the Whole-of-Society Defense Resilience Committee at the Presidential Office. Civilian force training, strategic material preparation, and critical infrastructure operation and maintenance are all key discussion areas for our committee. These aim to enhance Taiwan’s resilience in national defense, economic livelihoods, disaster prevention, and democracy. They are also items on the agenda for this GCTF workshop. To cover all the bases, Taiwan must unite and cooperate as a team. Last year, our committee held the very first cross-sector tabletop exercise at the Presidential Office which included central and local government officials as well as civilian observers. We aim to test the government’s emergency response capabilities in high-intensity gray-zone operations and near-conflict situations. We will continue to hold exercises to help the central and local governments work together more efficiently, and strengthen Taiwan’s overall disaster response capabilities. Second is to enhance disaster response capabilities in the community. We fully understand that to build whole-of-society resilience, we must help people increase risk awareness, know how to respond to disasters, and develop abilities to help themselves, help one another, and work together. We are grateful to the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) for collaborating with the Taiwan Development Association for Disaster Medical Teams to host “Take Action” workshops around the country since 2021. A 2.0 version is already in practice, and continues to train the public in first aid skills. Director of the AIT Taipei Office Raymond Greene and I took part in a Take Action event in New Taipei City last year and personally saw the positive outcomes of the training. In addition to the Take Action workshops, the government is also providing Disaster Relief Volunteer training for ages 11 to 89, and is continuing to expand its target audience. We have also set up Taiwan Community Emergency Response Teams at key facilities nationwide, enhancing the ability of these important facilities to respond independently to disasters. Civilian training will continue to be refined and expanded so that members of the public can serve as important partners in government-led disaster prevention and relief. Third, we will leverage Taiwan’s strengths to make contributions to the international community. The inspiration for our Disaster Relief Volunteer training comes from a similar program run by The Nippon Care-Fit Education Institute in Japan. I am confident that through exchanges like this workshop, Taiwan and other countries can also inspire one another in many areas, and enhance whole-of-society resilience in multiple ways. Taiwan also excels in information and communications and advanced technology. We will set up even more robust cybersecurity systems, expand usage of emerging technologies, and improve the ways we maintain domestic security. We hope that by leveraging our capabilities and sharing our experiences, Taiwan can contribute even more to the international community. I want to welcome all our partners once again, and thank AIT for co-hosting this event. Let’s continue down the path of advancing global security and developing resilience together. Because together, we can travel farther, and we can travel longer. Also in attendance at the event were Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association Deputy Representative Takaba Yo, Australian Office in Taipei Representative Robert Fergusson, and Canadian Trade Office in Taipei Executive Director Jim Nickel.

    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: Bitget Wallet Partners with Cryptorefills to Enable Crypto Travel Payments in 180 Countries

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, March 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget Wallet, a leading Web3 non-custodial wallet, has partnered with Cryptorefills to enable seamless crypto payments for travel. Users can now book flights, hotels, and other services using Bitcoin, Ethereum, USDT, USDC, and more, eliminating the need for fiat conversions and making digital assets more practical for everyday spending.

    Cryptorefills is now accessible as a DApp within Bitget Wallet’s “Spend with Crypto” section, allowing users to pay for travel and other essential services directly from their wallets. Beyond flights and hotels, users can purchase gift cards, top up mobile credit, and access gaming services from major brands. This integration streamlines crypto transactions across global merchants, bringing real-world utility to digital assets.

    As a global crypto payment platform operating in over 180 countries, Cryptorefills supports more than 5,000 brands across travel, telecom, and retail. “Our mission is to make cryptocurrency a seamless payment method for everyday use,” said Massimiliano Silenzi, CEO of Cryptorefills. “Partnering with Bitget Wallet extends our reach, allowing millions of users to pay for travel and other services directly with their crypto holdings.“

    “Travel is a natural use case for crypto, offering a borderless payment experience,” said Alvin Kan, COO of Bitget Wallet. “This partnership with Cryptorefills accelerates our vision for PayFi, making digital assets more accessible and practical in the real world. We will continue expanding our ecosystem to drive the next phase of crypto-powered financial innovation.”

    This partnership is part of Bitget Wallet’s PayFi strategy to integrate crypto earning, sending, and spending into a unified onchain financial system. PayFi aims to make crypto payments frictionless and widely accepted by building a network of merchants and payment partners across industries. Alongside in-app shopping and upcoming QR code and POS integrations, Bitget Wallet is advancing crypto payment’s role in mainstream commerce.

    To celebrate the partnership, Bitget Wallet and Cryptorefills are launching a cashback campaign from March 17 to 23, 2025. Users who book flights, hotels, or buy gift cards with crypto via Bitget Wallet on Cryptorefills will earn 5% cashback, up to $5 per user, limited to 1,000 redemptions on a first-come, first-served basis.

    About Bitget Wallet
    Bitget Wallet is the home of Web3, uniting endless possibilities in one non-custodial wallet. With over 60 million users, it offers comprehensive onchain services, including asset management, instant swaps, rewards, staking, trading tools, live market data, a DApp browser, an NFT marketplace and crypto payment. Supporting over 100 blockchains, 20,000+ DApps, and 500,000+ tokens, Bitget Wallet enables seamless multi-chain trading across hundreds of DEXs and cross-chain bridges, along with a $300+ million protection fund to ensure safety of users’ assets. Experience Bitget Wallet Lite to start a Web3 journey.

    For more information, visit: X | Telegram | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn | TikTok | Discord | Facebook

    For media inquiries, please contact media.web3@bitget.com

    About Cryptorefills
    Cryptorefills empowers people in over 180 countries to meet their everyday needs by purchasing products and services with cryptocurrency. From topping up mobile credit and purchasing gift cards from the world’s leading brands to booking flights across 300 airlines and stays across over 1 million hotels and properties, Cryptorefills offers a seamless blockchain-purchase experience. As an early adopter of the Bitcoin Lightning Network and the first ecommerce in the world to adopt Ethereum Layer 2 and scalable blockchain stablecoin payments, Cryptorefills is leading the innovation in decentralized payments. Headquartered in Amsterdam, Cryptorefills is a fast-growing fintech and a proud member of the Holland Fintech Association and Blockchain Netherlands Foundation.

    For media inquiries, please contact media@cryptorefills.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/46213e2c-df96-49e4-a2d5-4d47e5991ae6

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: International Anti-Money Laundering rule changes support government reforms

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee has welcomed changes to international anti-money laundering standards which closely align with the Government’s reforms.

    “The Financial Action Taskforce (FATF) last month adopted revised standards for tackling money laundering and the financing of terrorism to allow for simplified regulatory measures for businesses, organisations and sectors that pose a lower risk of money laundering,” Mrs McKee says.

    “This Government is committed to meeting its international obligations to address money laundering and organised crime and the damage they cause to New Zealand’s society and the international economy.  But our anti-money laundering and countering financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) regime needs to recognise that a one-size-fits-all regulatory model places an undue regulatory burden on businesses, organisations and sectors that pose low risk.  

    “We’ve heard numerous stories about children, disabled and unhoused people, as well as the elderly struggling to get bank accounts; community groups being subjected to unreasonable scrutiny; and people being driven out of business because the AML/CFT settings do not encourage simplified measures where risks are lower.

    “That is why we promoted these changes at FATF, and I’m pleased other FATF members have joined us in taking a common-sense approach.   My AML/CFT reform work programme will implement the FATF’s new standard by, amongst other things, allowing simplified measures for low-risk activities and entities” Mrs McKee says.

    “These changes are in line with FATF’s new best practice that countries should not only address their AML/CFT risks but also apply a risk-based approach to ensure that measures to target money laundering and terrorist financing don’t make it impossible for innocent people to access financial services. Our focus should be on knuckling down on organised criminals and fraudsters harming our communities, not wasting time and effort digging into the affairs of ordinary people and community groups.

    “New Zealand’s experiences working to address the complex issues which make it harder and more expensive for our Pasifika communities to send money home has played an important part in changing the standards.  The FATF has listened to our experience and moved to address the AML piece of the puzzle.

    “This Government’s intended reforms aim to improve the regime and deliver regulatory relief, to support tackling organised crime and to improve New Zealand’s compliance with international standards.  The changes will be part of a wider package of reform to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the AML/CFT regime for businesses, agencies, and ordinary New Zealanders.

    “We are working hard to build efficient government structures to enable risk-based settings that empower common sense to stop wasting people’s time – and instead help businesses focus on the practical actions that they can take to help keep criminals out of our financial system.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sullivan, Murkowski, Colleagues Reintroduce Volcano Warning and Monitoring Legislation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Dan Sullivan

    03.14.25

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Senators Dan Sullivan and Lisa Murkowski (both R-Alaska), and Senators Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii) and Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) today reintroduced bipartisan legislation to reauthorize a domestic program focused on detecting and warning about volcanic threats. Their bill will enable the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) to continue to improve its volcano monitoring and early warning capabilities around the country.

    “Our state constitutes the northern flank of the Pacific Ring of Fire, making Alaska the most volcanically active in the country by far,” Senator Sullivan said. “Just this week, experts predicted Mount Spurr in Southcentral could erupt in a matter of weeks, less than 100 miles west of Ted Stevens International—the fourth largest air cargo hub in the world. Volcanic eruptions not only threaten Alaska communities, but can also disrupt global trade and aviation along the heavily trafficked flight paths over our state. I’m glad to introduce legislation with Senator Murkowski and our colleagues to reauthorize NVEWS, invest in critical monitoring technologies and resources, and help ensure we can effectively plan for and respond to any future eruptions.”

    “With 141 active volcanoes in our state, volcanic threats are real for Alaskans,” said Senator Murkowski. “The Alaska Volcano Observatory is actively monitoring increased activity at Mount Spurr, just west of Anchorage, reminding us how vital continuous and reliable detection, warning, and response systems are across the Pacific Ring of Fire. I’m hopeful we can move this noncontroversial legislation quickly through Congress and to the President’s desk.”

    “The State of Washington is home to four of the most dangerous volcanoes in the nation,” Senator Cantwell said. “We must invest in the right science and fund robust monitoring to keep our communities informed, mitigate future threats, and save lives.”

    “In 2022, Hawaii Island residents experienced an eruption from Mauna Loa for the first time in nearly 40 years and they have continued to see new eruptions from the summit of Kilauea volcano,” said Senator Hirono. “This program, first authorized in 2019, will help scientists at the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory to continue improving their volcanomonitoring and warning capabilities through expanded infrastructure and modernized technology. These improvements will further enable our scientists to provide comprehensive, up-to-date volcanic hazard information that keeps our communities safe. Reauthorizing this program is necessary to ensure that officials at volcano observatories throughout the country can continue to provide real-time hazard information for residents, visitors, and emergency responders.”

    “Volcanic eruptions pose an increasing threat to a growing, globally connected population and economy. Unlike some other hazards, volcanic eruptions can be accurately forecast if the necessary equipment has been installed and data have been acquired. The recent unrest of Mount Spurr, a very high threat volcano near Anchorage, Alaska, is an excellent example of how volcano scientists can provide warning prior to a possible eruption when sufficient instrumentation and scientific knowledge are available. However, most volcanoes in the U.S. are not adequately monitored. The reauthorization of NVEWS would provide the necessary means to sufficiently monitor volcanoes across the U.S. and improve public safety. We thank the Senator and her staff for their efforts in supporting this legislation,” said David Fee, Coordinating Scientist at the Alaska Volcano Observatory.

    Background

    Murkowski’s National Volcano Early Warning and Monitoring System Act passed Congress in 2018. The legislation provides USGS with the resources needed to organize, modernize, standardize, and stabilize the monitoring systems of U.S. volcanoobservatories and centralizes the collected data. The original Act’s authorizations expired at the end of Fiscal Year 2023, but Murkowski, now Chairman of the Interior Appropriations Subcommittee, has ensured this important priority continues to receive federal funding.

    The Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) is a “consortium of the USGS, the University of Alaska Fairbanks Geophysical Institute, and the State of Alaska Geological and Geophysical Surveys.” Mount Spurr, located 75 miles west of Anchorage, is projected to erupt “within weeks or months,” with ash “likely” to impact Alaska’s most populated areas.

    The reauthorization of the National Volcano Early Warning and Monitoring Systems Act:

    • Authorizes a total of $75 million over a ten-year period;
    • Adds the U.S. Forest Service to the interagency coordination list;
    • Requires five-year management plans on a regular basis, and includes coordination with new or existing cooperative partners;
    • Establishes an Implementation Committee to help provide recommended requirements, implementation steps, and performance standards for the system;
    • Establishes public communication and messaging responsibilities for coordination between partners to avoid confusion or duplication;
    • Expands the list of emerging technologies for advanced monitoring networks to support modernization of data collection and networks; and
    • Updates technical language.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy, Blumenthal, 36 Colleagues To Education Secretary: “We Will Not Stand By As You Attempt To Turn Back The Clock On Education In This Country”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy
    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP), and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) on Tuesday joined 36 of their Senate colleagues in sending a letter to Secretary of Education Linda McMahon expressing outrage at the administration’s reckless and illegal firing of half of the workforce at the U.S. Department of Education. The senators condemned the mass layoffs— part of a broader effort by the Trump administration and Elon Musk to attack public education—warning that closing offices and cutting 1,300 jobs will devastate America’s schools and harm students across the country.
    “At a time of massive income and wealth inequality, when 60 percent of people live paycheck to paycheck, millions of Americans cannot afford higher education, and 40 percent of our nation’s 4th graders and 33 percent of 8th graders read below basic proficiency, it is a national disgrace that the Trump Administration is attempting to illegally abolish the Department of Education and thus, undermine a high-quality education for our students,” the senators wrote.
    The senators noted that these layoffs and closures will have devastating effects on the nation’s students, including by limiting the department’s ability to guarantee federal funding reaches communities that rely on it, ensure students can access federal financial aid, and uphold students’ civil rights. Not even 24 hours after the staff reductions were announced, the Free Application for Federal Financial Aid (FAFSA) experienced a glitch that prevented students and families from accessing the application. Education Department workers responsible for fixing it had reportedly been fired.
    The senators continued: “[The layoffs] would also mean decreased enforcement of rights for children with disabilities and fewer resources for students from low-income backgrounds and children with disabilities, like the 26 million students from low-income backgrounds and over 100,000 public schools in every community across this country that rely on Title I funding; the 7.5 million students with disabilities who benefit under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, and the 7 million students who receive Pell grants to help access higher education.”
    In Connecticut, 1,000 K-12 schools and over 533,000 K-12 students, including those with disabilities, from low-income backgrounds, and English learners, rely on critical federal funding coming into Connecticut. Financial aid and support also support students across Connecticut attend and complete college including through $286 million in Pell Grants for 63,000 students in Connecticut and $19 billion in current and outstanding federal student loans supporting the education of 517,000 borrowers in Connecticut.
    They concluded: “We will not stand by as you attempt to turn back the clock on education in this country through gutting the Department of Education. Our nation’s public schools, colleges, and universities are preparing the next generation of America’s leaders—we must take steps to strengthen education in this country, not take a wrecking ball to the agency that exists to do so.”
    U.S. Senators Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Maize Hirono (D-Hawaii), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Chuck Schumer  (D-N.Y.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Mark Warner  (D-Va.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.) and Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.) also signed the letter.
    Full text of the letter is available HERE and below.
    Dear Secretary McMahon:
    We write to express our outrage that you, President Trump, and unelected billionaire Elon Musk are taking steps to abolish the Department of Education (“the Department”) and eliminate educational opportunities for millions of students across the country, something that 61 percent of Americans oppose. This most recently includes a 50 percent cut to the workforce, resulting in the termination of over 1,300 workers at the Department of Education, as well as the abrupt, last-minute closure of all Department of Education buildings beginning at 6:00 PM on the same day that these terminations were announced.
    At a time of massive income and wealth inequality, when 60 percent of people live paycheck to paycheck, millions of Americans cannot afford higher education, and 40 percent of our nation’s 4th graders and 33 percent of 8th graders read below basic proficiency, it is a national disgrace that the Trump Administration is attempting to illegally abolish the Department of Education and thus, undermine a high-quality education for our students.
    As Secretary of Education, you are the foremost public servant responsible for carrying out the Department of Education’s mission to promote student achievement and preparation for global competitiveness by fostering educational excellence and ensuring equal access. Despite that responsibility, your first act as Secretary was announcing it was your “final mission” to dismantle the Department of Education, fire the public servants who keep it running, and terminate opportunities for students in public schools, colleges, and universities across the country.
    The false claims of financial savings by dismantling the Department of Education so that billionaires can receive huge tax breaks is bad public policy and morally reprehensible. The billionaires that are in charge of our federal government right now will not be harmed by these egregious attacks: wealthy families sending their children to elite, private schools will still be able to get a quality education even if every public school disappears in this country. But for working-class families, high-quality public education is an opportunity they rely on for their children to have a path to do well in life.
    Defunding federal support for public education would result in either higher property taxes or decreased funding for public schools, including in rural areas. It would also mean decreased enforcement of rights for children with disabilities and fewer resources for students from low-income backgrounds and children with disabilities, like the 26 million students from low-income backgrounds and over 100,000 public schools in every community across this country that rely on Title I funding; the 7.5 million students with disabilities who benefit under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, and the 7 million students who receive Pell grants to help access higher education.
    It is undeniable that terminating 50 percent of the Department of Education’s workers will have harmful effects on public education in this country. The Department of Education already has the smallest staff of the 15 Cabinet agencies despite having the third largest discretionary budget, behind only the Departments of Defense and Health and Human Services. These reductions will have devastating impacts on our nation’s students and we are deeply concerned that without staff, the Department will be unable to fulfill critical functions, such as ensuring students can access federal financial aid, upholding students’ civil rights, and guaranteeing that federal funding reaches communities promptly and is well-spent. Not even 24 hours after the staff reductions were announced, the Free Application for Federal Financial Aid (FAFSA) experienced a glitch that prevented students and families from accessing the application, but the staff normally responsible for fixing those errors had reportedly been cut. The Department has also reportedly shuttered several regional offices responsible for investigating potential violations of students’ civil rights in local schools. We are deeply alarmed that cases will go uninvestigated and that students will be left in unsafe learning environments as a result.
    The Trump Administration also says it wants to ‘return education back to the states.’ Let us be very clear—public education is already run by states and local school boards. While just 11 percent of public education is federally funded, the Department of Education has a necessary and irreplaceable responsibility to implement federal laws that ensure equal opportunity for all children in this country. These laws guarantee fundamental protections, such as ensuring that children with disabilities receive a free appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment, that students from low-income backgrounds and students of color will not be disproportionately taught by less experienced and qualified teachers, and that parents will receive information about their child’s academic achievement.
    Without the Department of Education, there is no guarantee that states would uphold students’ civil and educational rights. Let us not forget that it was federal troops who protected the “Little Rock Nine” from a violent mob of segregationists when they integrated Central High School in the wake of the Brown v. Board U.S. Supreme Court decision. Not only was the state not going to provide this protection, but it was then-Arkansas Governor Orval Faubus who ordered the state’s National Guard to bar Black students from entering the school. Even today, the Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights regularly investigates and resolves complaints of student discrimination related to students’ race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability status.
    We will not stand by as you attempt to turn back the clock on education in this country through gutting the Department of Education. Our nation’s public schools, colleges, and universities are preparing the next generation of America’s leaders—we must take steps to strengthen education in this country, not take a wrecking ball to the agency that exists to do so.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Missing Belmont boy located

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police are pleased to advise that a teenage boy, reported missing from Belmont, has been located.

    He is safe and is being taken home.

    Police thank the wider North Shore community for their response to our appeal today.

    ENDS

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Transcript – Radio 4RO Rockhampton with Dales Whyte

    Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development

    DALES WHYTE [HOST]: Joining us in the studio at the moment is the Minister for, amongst other things, Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Local Government, the Honourable Catherine King. Good morning Catherine, how are you?

    CATHERINE KING [MINISTER]: I’m well. And that was a very apt song. I haven’t met you yet either, but today we have. So there you go.

    DALES WHYTE: The world is a better place.

    CATHERINE KING: There you go.

    DALES WHYTE: We have been asking people to give us a call, and they’ve been– look, there’s been bulk calls coming in the last 48 hours. Amazingly enough, or unexpectedly, we’ve got a lot of interest in what’s happening with the Bruce Highway. First call we got was soon after we knew you were coming. It was: when is work starting on the Bruce Highway?

    CATHERINE KING: Good. Well, the first thing I can say is that today I’m here. The Bruce Highway Advisory Committee is in town today, and we are meeting together to talk about what the next tranche of projects. But I’m here with Brent Mickelberg as well. We’ll be announcing the first tranche of projects under the new $9 billion safety package. There’s 23 projects; 16 of those are construction projects. They will start shortly. They’re ready to go. Literally, the contracts are about to be signed, and a further planning for the next set of tranche of projects is underway. The advisory committee is advising both the Queensland and the federal government about where the problem areas are.

    So, on that, we obviously have the motoring groups, we’ve got local representatives of local councils along the highway, truck drivers. And they’re the people who are going to try and tell us where we need to work first, because what we want to do is work on the worst bits of the road first and get those improvements. And that’s what we’re announcing today.

    DALES WHYTE: I think that’s fabulous. I think that– I’ve got to say, and I said it earlier on the radio, I would have hoped that somebody from Transport and Main Roads, one of our great public servants, and we do have really good public servants in Queensland, would have been sitting down keeping an idea of the road areas that need working.

    CATHERINE KING: Yeah, well they’ve started– so this first lot have come from TMR. So the first lot have come from TMR. And there’s that 15-year action plan for the Bruce that was developed some time ago. So it’s come from there. And then what we’re doing is using the advisory group to actually develop the next tranche of projects. So that’ll just keep rolling. So today, it’s about 300 million worth of projects that are being released, and that money is now being released. And that’s literally– we announced this money in January. And here we are not too far down the track and we’re actually getting on with it.

    DALES WHYTE: We– yeah, we certainly do need it. I would like to have seen it done in January three years ago.

    CATHERINE KING: [Laughs]

    DALES WHYTE: Another question …

    CATHERINE KING: [Interrupts] I think all of it is. But, you know, to be blunt, to be political for a moment, it’s taking a Labor Government to get in and do it.

    DALES WHYTE: No, don’t forget, the election coming up. You’re allowed to get in a free plug for yourself.

    CATHERINE KING: [Laughs]

    DALES WHYTE: Is the immediate money available for both the Bruce Highway and the beef roads?

    CATHERINE KING: Yeah. So also what we’re announcing today. So this beef roads has been extraordinarily frustrating to me. So, there’s a $500 million package for beef roads. And in essence, what we’ve been waiting for is the councils in the area with the Queensland Government to basically say, where are the roads that you want us to spend the money on? There’s one thing to say, here, we’re allocating money. So again today, $38 million is the first tranche of that. I’ve signed off on that money. Construction will start on those as well.

    DALES WHYTE: Now, we have a little chestnut for you that I know you’re going to love.

    CATHERINE KING: [Laughs] OK.

    DALES WHYTE: According to the Senate estimates hearing, $440 million of that $7 billion will be spent over the next three years on the Bruce Highway. What happened to the full 7 billion?

    CATHERINE KING: Well, yeah. So this is this sort of nonsense. And I understand your local member has been touting this around. So estimates are estimates. Basically, what they do is they estimate. We think that according to where the schedule of where works is up to, this is where money will need to be released. Now, today we’re blowing that out of the water, to be quite honest, because we’re just releasing $300 million in the first three months. So what happens is Queensland will come forward to me. They do what’s called a project proposal report. They say we’re now ready to spend the money and then we just move money into– money moves in and out of the forward estimates all the time. You wouldn’t expect that I would put $7.2 billion in the first year and say, here you go, Queensland, off you go, you just can spend it wherever you like. I’m sure Queensland would love it if I did that.

    DALES WHYTE: Well, we just want to spend it on this goat track.

    CATHERINE KING: [Laughs] Exactly. Well that’s why we’re doing it. So you’ve got to– you know, they’ve got to do the planning. They’ve got to come to me and say, here’s the report. This is how much it’s going to cost. This is– you know, we’re ready to go to tender. Can you release the money? And we just release the money. And that’s basically what happens with every project. There’s a reason they’re called estimates. They’re estimates of when we think projects will be ready and we move money in and out of them all the time.

    DALES WHYTE: The proof will be in the pudding.

    CATHERINE KING: Absolutely. Well, we’ve got 300 million being released today …

    DALES WHYTE: [Talks over] I think that’s fabulous.

    CATHERINE KING: … in three months.

    DALES WHYTE: Now, this is a really important question. I have driven the Hume Highway on numerous occasions.

    CATHERINE KING: Yes.

    DALES WHYTE: I used to live in New South Wales. Don’t hold that against me.

    CATHERINE KING: [Laughs]

    DALES WHYTE: But …

    CATHERINE KING: [Talks over] Well, I’m a Victorian, so I have driven on it too.

    DALES WHYTE: My question is, it’s all concrete. It’s pretty much flood proofed. Why are we– why aren’t we doing that here?

    CATHERINE KING: Yeah. So– I mean, different roads will need different conditions because of the amount of rain and weather. And again, I’m not an engineering expert, so I rely on the advice of TMR and the engineers to say this is what we’re doing. But one of the things we’ve been focused on– so we’ve got this safety package, this $9 billion, there is a further $10 billion of works that is already underway so that will continue. A lot of that is really big money, around flood proofing and building better. And so you can see that as the road improves slowly but surely a bit more down south that it has up this way, and partly what we’re trying to do now is focus on the central and the north bits of this to get that flood proofing as well. So those big projects will also still continue. And I think– again, Gladstone to Rockhampton we’ve got 188 million. I’ve just released that as well for that section of the road, so that money is in addition to the 9 billion. So, all of that’s happening. In terms of what surface you use and what treatment, really that’s up to the engineers. But our expectation is, from the Commonwealth’s point of view, is that we are building resilience into our infrastructure. There is no point building something and then it– the surface washes away. And it’s frustrating to me, and I know it’s frustrating to many of your listeners when that occurs. So that’s really what we’re focused on.

    DALES WHYTE: And that’s– it’s really amazing. Of all the people that called us, it basically came down to the Bruce Highway.

    CATHERINE KING: Yeah. Absolutely.

    DALES WHYTE: So that gives you an idea of how important that is in our part of the world.

    CATHERINE KING: Yeah. Well, it’s your major– like, it’s the only way you can travel around, between communities. It– absolutely. And we’ve understood that, we’ve always understood it. And it’s why we’re focused on trying to get this improved.

    DALES WHYTE: You’ve brought your bucket of money with you. What else are you releasing today?

    CATHERINE KING: Well, today also– so the Rocky Ring Road has been a really important project. I think if you’ve heard the Prime Minister talk about it, this is a project he promised back, I think with Kirsten Livermore way, way, way back. It’s taken a long time to get this project off the road. When we came to government, the tenders had come in at about 700 million more than were expected because it had been so delayed, frankly, under the previous government. It was going to cost more, we had to take some time to try and work out, well, how do we find that money? Can we get costs down at all? We found that money. There has been another cost pressure that would have been– the Queensland Government has reported. So, we’re adding another 200 million, taking the Commonwealth’s contribution to the Rocky Ring Road to $1.4 billion. It’s a big ring road. And so that money is being released again today as well. So making sure there was a view that we could scope it back a bit and not put that money in, we took the decision, we’ll put the 200 million in and the full scope of the Rocky Ring Road will proceed.

    DALES WHYTE: Now, if I was a little bit dubious of politicians…

    CATHERINE KING: [Talks over] No, you’re not like that at all. No, never. [Laughs]

    DALES WHYTE: Never, not me. One could say, oh, this is just spending in time for the election. Why didn’t it happen earlier?

    CATHERINE KING: Well, again, the cost overrun for that has only just been identified, so I didn’t know about it a year ago. If I’d known about it a year ago, we would have dealt with it. So it’s only just come to light that this cost pressure is there so we’re just doing that. In terms of the Bruce Highway, we’ve been working with both the previous Queensland Government and the new Queensland Government on what we could do next. We had 10 billion already on the table. Those projects were proceeding and continue to go. I’d always like them to happen much more quickly, to be blunt. I think it would be good if they happened much more quickly and we’d been working with them about what next, what do we need to do? And again, we sort of do it on a project by project basis. And so we needed them to come to us to say what it was that was needed. And once they did that, we stepped up.

    DALES WHYTE: I’ve kept my questions to last. So are you– I’m running out now. I’m out of time, that is. 15-year plan for the Bruce Highway. We can’t wait 15.

    CATHERINE KING: No, you definitely can’t. So what we’ve said with this 9 billion safety package, and the focus of this is doing what’s called– there’s a star rating system, but that basically looks at the safety of each of the big highways in particular. And it says that, really, the best– safest road is a five-star road. And that’s where you’ve got, dual lanes separated …

    DALES WHYTE: Much like the Hume Highway.

    CATHERINE KING: Yeah. Like that. Like– I’m trying to think, even in my home district, the Western Highway is a bit safer, but it’d probably be around four stars. It’s three in some parts as well, and down to two in others as well. So really what you’re trying to do is look at where is every single part of this that is at a two star, and we want to lift that up to three. If we can get it higher, we will. It will depend on the treatment. So you’ve got to widen shoulders. You’ve got to put grade separation in place. So you’re going to start to see that, we’ve said we’ll do that in eight years. That’s the plan is to get that done in eight years. If we can get it done sooner, we will. You’ve got a bit of a workforce shortage up here, unfortunately, at the moment. And there’s a lot happening, building everywhere. Olympics is going to put some strain on the labour force as well.  And we’d like to get it done.

    DALES WHYTE: And we want some of the Olympics up here.

    CATHERINE KING: Well, that’ll be a matter for the Queensland Government’s review. You’ll be– I mean, you know it’s always tricky with these things. What you want to do is be able to make sure that you’ve got some facilities for people, for places to train, that you’ve got some legacy afterwards so that you’ve got sporting fields and facilities that people can use afterwards.

    DALES WHYTE: Okay, here we go. The final question: is all this money going to happen no matter who wins the election?

    CATHERINE KING: Yeah. So this is all in the budget. So the announcement we made of the 7.2 billion and then the Queensland Government made 1.8, that is already in the budget. But of course, when you’ve got an opposition looking for $351 billion of cuts, I can’t guarantee what they might cut. Let’s hope it’s not the Bruce.

    DALES WHYTE: Well, I don’t think anyone would be game to cut the Bruce. And …

    CATHERINE KING: Not if you’re on the case, mate. No.

    DALES WHYTE: With respect to Peter Dutton, he is a Queenslander, so he knows better.

    CATHERINE KING: I don’t know, he got confused between Yeppen and Yeppoon, so I don’t know about that.

    DALES WHYTE: [Laughs] Oh well okay. Point taken. Well done. Minister King, thank you so much for your time. It’s always a pleasure and hopefully you won’t be a stranger.

    CATHERINE KING: Never. I will come back anytime you’d like me to.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Guideline aims to promote balanced nutrition, healthier lifestyles

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Students learn about healthy eating on the Chinese Student Nutrition Day in Nanjing, capital of east China’s Jiangsu Province, Dec. 5, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua]
    China has unveiled targets to enhance the nutritional quality of its food consumption by 2030 to promote a more balanced and healthy diet nationwide.
    The Food and Nutrition Development Guideline (2025-2030), jointly issued by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, the National Health Commission, and the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, was released on Monday and set key objectives for improving dietary habits and food supply quality.
    The guideline calls for a shift toward nutrient-rich food consumption, increasing annual per capita intake of foods high in protein and fiber.
    By 2030, it targets per capita annual consumption of 14 kilograms of legumes, 69 kg of meat, 23 kg of eggs, 47 kg of dairy products, 29 kg of seafood, 270 kg of vegetables and 130 kg of fruit.
    Nutritional recommendations outlined in the guideline advocate for daily caloric intake to remain at approximately 2,150 kilocalories for men and 1,700 kilocalories for women. The initiative emphasizes the importance of protein consumption, setting a goal for high-quality protein to account for more than 50 percent of total daily intake.
    Daily fiber intake is expected to rise to 25 to 30 grams, while consumption of edible oils should be reduced to 25 to 30 grams. The guideline also aims to cap daily salt intake at 5 grams and added sugar intake at 25 grams.
    China’s chronic disease prevention and control efforts face numerous challenges, as both malnutrition and overnutrition persist, according to Chu Xu from the National Health Commission.
    The new guideline takes a comprehensive approach by addressing nutritional concerns at the food production level, advocating for a nutrition-oriented strategy across the entire food industry chain, he said.
    The guideline focuses on modernizing food supply systems and promoting healthier cooking methods. Authorities plan to enhance food quality, expand nutritional research and popularize portion control tools to regulate salt, oil and sugar intake.
    Zhang Zhenhua, deputy head of the Department of Science, Technology and Education at the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, emphasized the need for a national strategy to balance food supply with changing consumption demands.
    “We should systematically plan food and nutrition initiatives to coordinate socioeconomic development with public health, adapting to the population’s increasing demand for nutritious food,” Zhang said at a news conference on Tuesday.
    Measures also include developing central kitchens, adopting smart storage and cooking technologies and improving household food waste management, the guideline said.
    “We need to coordinate food resource utilization with environmental conservation, as reducing food waste is equivalent to increasing production,” Zhang said, adding that the guideline stresses promoting sustainable agriculture and preserving China’s culinary heritage.
    Wu Kongming, president of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, said ensuring access to nutritious and affordable food is a global priority, with countries competing for key technological advancements.
    “The plan calls for an integrated food and nutrition technology innovation system covering the entire supply chain, from breeding and farming to processing, logistics and consumption,” Wu said.
    He suggested greater integration between food nutrition science and industry innovation.
    The academy will establish research platforms and set up joint research centers to advance technological breakthroughs in food processing and consumption patterns, he said.
    “We will create a collaborative platform for food and nutrition policy research, strengthening industry support and advancing nutrition-oriented agriculture,” Wu said.
    Public awareness initiatives such as National Nutrition Week and the Chinese Farmers’ Harvest Festival will further promote healthy eating habits and regional food culture, the guidelines said.
    Wu proposed expanding outreach initiatives such as open house events, social media campaigns and public forums to provide accurate, accessible nutritional information.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Trump’s tariff escalation sparks global concern

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Customers shop at a Target store in Rosemead, Los Angeles County, California, the United States, on March 4, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff strategy, including a universal steel and aluminum tariff of 25 percent and global reciprocal tariffs starting from April 2, has sparked widespread concern over its economic impact both domestically and globally.

    A poll published by The Guardian on Monday showed that 72 percent of Americans are worried about tariffs, up from 61 percent in January.

    The economic uncertainty is reflected across political lines, with 90 percent of Democrats and 57 percent of Republicans expressing concern. Many fear long-term damage, with 66 percent of Americans believing that the U.S. economy will take years to recover from Trump’s tariffs, the survey shows.

    “There’s growing concern that tariffs could have a lasting and unknowable impact on the economy, regardless of whether they’re walked back soon or not,” said John Gerzema, CEO of Harris Poll.

    Economist Kimberly Clausing said in a recent interview with The New York Times that high tariffs could reduce imports, harm U.S. production and cost jobs, calling the moves a “good starting point” of the goal to “weaken America’s position in the world.”

    According to a recent estimate from the National Association of Home Builders, the rising costs of construction materials, including lumber, aluminum and steel, could add 9,200 U.S. dollars in costs for a typical home.

    “Builders continue to face elevated building material costs that are exacerbated by tariff issues, as well as other supply-side challenges that include labor and lot shortages,” said Buddy Hughes, chairman of the association.

    The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development released a report on Monday, suggesting Trump’s escalating trade tariffs will hit world growth and raise inflation.

    Global economic growth would slow from 3.2 percent in 2024 to 3.1 percent in 2025, largely as a result of the trade tensions, said the organization.

    In Canada, the U.S. tariffs have been met with a wave of patriotism, with some consumers and businesses boycotting American products.

    “Right now, I’m a little angry. I don’t want to invest in American companies,” Joanna Goodman, owner of Au Lit Fine Linens, a Toronto-based bedding and nightwear company, told the BBC on Monday.

    “It’s about having your eggs in one basket. And right now, that basket is very reckless and very precarious,” Goodman said, referring to Canada’s long-time economic dependence on the United States.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Policy mix key to addressing structural woes

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    People visit the exhibition area of consumer goods during the seventh China International Import Expo (CIIE) in East China’s Shanghai, Nov 5, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Faced with structural issues at home and mounting external uncertainties, China should put in place a mix of macroeconomic and industrial policies, alongside meaningful reforms, to spur effective demand, stabilize the property market, accelerate the shift from old growth drivers to new ones, and raise the nation’s total factor productivity, economists said.

    “The downward pressure facing the Chinese economy mainly comes from cyclical fluctuations and structural transition,” said Huang Yiping, dean of Peking University’s National School of Development.

    “Stabilizing growth will be crucial; it will remain the main policy priority through 2025. And that requires a combination of macroeconomic, industrial policies as well as reform measures,” Huang said at a recent meeting held by Peking University’s National School of Development in Beijing.

    Huang highlighted weakening traditional growth drivers and insufficient momentum from emerging industries as key structural challenges.

    Meanwhile, lackluster domestic demand is exacerbating pressure on cyclical fluctuations. Thus, it is advisable to adopt a coordinated policy framework that combines both macroeconomic and industrial policies, he added.

    A report released by the National School of Development during the meeting said that in the short term, macroeconomic policies should focus on stabilizing aggregate demand and preventing any systemic risks arising from the real estate sector. Industrial policies, on the other hand, should focus on facilitating the transition from old growth drivers to new ones.

    “Fiscal policy should aim to stabilize the construction and real estate sectors while enhancing fiscal and tax support for emerging industries,” the report said. “Meanwhile, monetary policy should take a more structural approach, providing targeted support for technological innovation and small and medium-sized enterprises.”

    In the medium to long term, the report said, it is necessary to advance reforms of the market-based allocation of production factors, strengthen property rights protection, and expand high-standard opening-up to stimulate private sector vitality and foster new growth drivers that help boost total factor productivity.

    “Macroeconomic adjustments should focus on expanding aggregate demand and improving market expectations, while more efforts should be made to accelerate the formation of new growth drivers as old ones phase out,” Huang said. “On the reforms front, deepening reforms will bolster confidence among businesses, improve market efficiency, and fully unlock economic potential and lead to faster growth.”

    Huang emphasized the critical role of stabilizing the real estate market, saying it will help stabilize the overall economy. Meanwhile, he pointed to the ongoing digital revolution, particularly those related to emerging fields like artificial intelligence and robotics, as a golden opportunity for economic transformation. “The key is whether we can seize this opportunity and translate it into real growth,” he said.

    Stimulating domestic demand is China’s top priority this year, as it seeks to cushion the impact of more US tariffs.

    In its 2025 Government Work Report, delivered during the annual two sessions, China announced that it will vigorously boost consumption and investment, and stimulate domestic demand across the board. It will also double ultra long-term special treasury bonds earmarked for its trade-in program to 300 billion yuan ($41.53 billion) this year.

    Zhang Bin, deputy director of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences’ Institute of World Economics and Politics, highlighted the necessity of expanding public investment, noting that it will be the most effective way to boost household incomes and spur consumer spending.

    He said during the meeting that consumption and investment are not in a zero-sum relationship but are positively correlated. “When investment grows faster, consumption grows faster. When consumption performs well, investment also grows faster, and economic growth accelerates.”

    Looking into the full year, Wu Ge, chief economist at Changjiang Securities, said China’s preset annual growth target of around 5 percent is achievable this year, while the country may need stronger and unconventional policies if it aims to see the GDP deflator return to positive territory. The deflator is the broadest measure of prices across goods and services.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s power use up 8.6% in February

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    China’s electricity consumption, a key barometer of economic activity, reported steady expansion last month, official data showed on Tuesday.

    Power use rose 8.6 percent year on year in February to hit 743.4 billion kilowatt-hours (kWh), according to data released by the National Energy Administration.

    Specifically, power consumed by the country’s primary and secondary industries gained 10.2 percent and 12.4 percent year on year, respectively, while that of its tertiary sectors rose by 9.7 percent.

    The administration said that urban and rural residential electricity consumption last month was down 4.2 percent from a year ago.

    The data showed that in the first two months of 2025, the country’s power consumption climbed 1.3 percent to surpass 1.55 trillion kWh. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Flooding in the Sahara, Amazon tributaries drying and warming tipping over 1.5°C – 2024 broke all the wrong records

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Andrew King, Associate Professor in Climate Science, ARC Centre of Excellence for 21st Century Weather, The University of Melbourne

    Climate change is the most pressing problem humanity will face this century. Tracking how the climate is actually changing has never been more critical.

    Today, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) published its annual State of the Climate report, which found heat records kept being broken in 2024. It’s likely 2024 was the first year to be more than 1.5°C above the Earth’s pre-industrial average temperature. In 2024, levels of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere hit the highest point in the last 800,000 years.

    The combination of heat and unchecked emissions, the organisation points out, had serious consequences. Attribution studies found a link between climate change and disasters such as Hurricane Helene, which left a trail of destruction in the southeastern United States, and the unprecedented flooding in Africa’s arid Sahel region.

    Slowing these increasingly dangerous changes to Earth’s climate will require a rapid shift from fossil fuels to clean energy.

    The record heat of 2024

    From the North Pole to the South Pole, the oceans and our land masses, the report catalogues alarm bells ringing ever louder for Earth’s vital signs.

    Steadily rising global average temperatures show us the influence of the extra heat we are trapping by emitting greenhouse gases. The ten warmest years on record have all happened in the past ten years.

    The report shows 2024 was the warmest year since comprehensive global records began 175 years ago. The planet was an estimated 1.55°C (plus or minus 0.13°C) warmer than it was between 1850 and 1900.

    Together, 2023 and 2024 marked a jump in global mean temperature from previous years. There was a jump of about 0.15°C between the previous record year (2016 or 2020 depending on the dataset) and 2023. Last year was even warmer – about 0.1°C above 2023.

    Last year was the first year the planet was likely more than 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. This doesn’t mean we have broken the 2015 Paris Agreement goal of holding warming under 1.5°C – temperatures would need to be sustained over a number of years to formally lose that fight. But it’s not good news.

    There are a few extra factors at play in this record-breaking global temperature, including an El Niño event boosting eastern Pacific Ocean temperatures in the first part of 2024, falling pollution from shipping leading to less cloud over the ocean, and a more active sun as well.

    Researchers are hard at work unpicking why the Earth’s average temperature jumped in 2023 and 2024. But it is clear the 2024 record-breaking warmth and most other damning statistics in the report would not have occurred if it wasn’t for human-induced climate change.

    Much of the Northern Hemisphere was more than 2°C warmer in 2024 than 1951-1980 levels and many equatorial areas saw new annual temperature records.
    NASA GISS, CC BY-NC-ND

    Carbon dioxide up, glacial melt up, sea ice down

    It’s not just global temperatures breaking records.

    Carbon dioxide concentrations in the atmosphere reached 427 parts per million last year. Sea level rise has accelerated and is now about 11 centimetres above early 1990s levels, and the oceans are at their highest temperatures on record.

    Seasonal sea-ice in the Arctic and around Antarctica shrank to low levels (albeit short of record lows) in 2024, while preliminary data shows glacial melt and ocean acidification continued at a rapid pace.

    Almost all parts of the world were much warmer in 2024 than even recent averages (1991–2020) and much of the tropics experienced record heat.

    From cyclones to heatwaves, another year of extreme events

    In the English-speaking media, extreme events affecting North America, Europe and Australia are well covered, such as the devastating Hurricane Helene in the US and the lethal flash flooding in Spain.

    By contrast, extreme weather and its fallout in Africa, South America and Southeast Asia get less coverage.

    In September 2024, Super Typhoon Yagi killed hundreds and caused widespread damage through the Philippines, China and Vietnam. Later in the year, Cyclone Chido struck Mayotte and Mozambique causing more than 100,000 people to be displaced. Hundreds died in Afghanistan, Iran and Pakistan due to spring floods following an unusual cold wave.

    Unusual flooding hit parts of the arid Sahel and even the Sahara Desert. Meanwhile the worst drought in a century hit southern Africa, devastating small farmers and leading to rising hunger.

    Much of South and Central America was hit by significant drought. Huge tributaries to the Amazon River all but dried up for the first time on record. Severe summer heat hit much of the Northern Hemisphere, while more than 1,300 pilgrims died during the Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca as heat and humidity pushed past survivable limits.

    Globally, extreme weather forced more people from their homes than any other year since 2008, which had widespread floods and fires.

    Did climate change play a role in these extreme events? The answer ranges from a resounding yes in some cases to a likely small role in others.

    Scientists at World Weather Attribution found the fingerprints of climate change in Hurricane Helene’s large-scale rain and winds as well as the flooding rains in the eastern Sahel.

    Paying the price for decades of inaction

    This report is a dire score card. The numbers are sobering, scary but sadly, not surprising.

    We have known the basic mechanism by which greenhouse gases warm the planet for over 100 years. The science behind climate change has been around a long time.

    But our response is still not up to the task.

    Currently, our activities are producing ever more greenhouse gas emissions, trapping more heat and causing more and more problems for people and the planet. Every fraction of a degree of global warming matters. The damage done will keep worsening until we end our reliance on fossil fuels and reach net zero.

    Andrew King receives funding from the ARC Centre of Excellence for 21st Century Weather and the National Environmental Science Program.

    Linden Ashcroft has received funding from the Australian Research Council and is affiliated with the ARC Centre of Excellence for 21st Century Weather

    – ref. Flooding in the Sahara, Amazon tributaries drying and warming tipping over 1.5°C – 2024 broke all the wrong records – https://theconversation.com/flooding-in-the-sahara-amazon-tributaries-drying-and-warming-tipping-over-1-5-c-2024-broke-all-the-wrong-records-252490

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Universities – Preparing for catastrophic fire danger days a challenge for many older Australians – Flinders University

    Source: Flinders University

    Most older Australians recently surveyed by Flinders University would not follow the Country Fire Services’ advice regarding catastrophic fire danger days.

    “With bushfires expected to become more frequent, severe, and destructive in residential areas, preparation is crucial for saving lives and reducing financial losses,” says report lead researcher Professor Beverley Clarke, a geographer in the College of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences.

    “Older Australians have unique challenges in disaster preparedness due to potential mobility or health issues and limited familiarity with digital emergency communication tools.

    “However, our study also found that many older Australians also possess strong community ties and historical knowledge of past bushfire events, which greatly impacts how they understand and respond to the advice.”

    Looking to understand their preparedness for a bushfire and responses to early warning messages, the researchers interviewed 61 older residents in three high-risk regions in South Australia – the Adelaide Hills, the Coorong, and the Yorke Peninsula – as well as aged care service providers and emergency responders.

    “On catastrophic fire days, emergency services advise that the safest option is to leave the threatened region in advance, either the night before or early in the morning, but only 10 percent of those we spoke to indicated they would heed that advice,” says report co-author Professor Kirstin Ross, a professor of environmental health in the College of Science and Engineering.

    “Many indicated they planned to stay until the fire posed an immediate threat, citing the desire to protect their home, uncertainty about evacuation destinations and logistical difficulties such as pets and mobility issues as reasons to stay.

    “Warning fatigue from past alerts that did not result in fires was also highlighted as a reason to delay evacuations.”

    The study found the few participants who did express willingness to leave early were influenced by adequate insurance coverage, personal experience with bushfires, exposure to compelling survivor testimonies, recognition of personal physical limitations, or, access to clear and practical information.

    A significant gender divide also emerged, with women more inclined to evacuate early, while men were more committed to staying and defending their property.

    The researchers also investigated residents’ bushfire action plans, finding while most had some kind of plan very few had a written plan.

    Several factors prevented the formulation of written plans including challenges accessing electronic communication, such as limited internet access or outdated devices, and limited recall of where to access emergency service information.

    “Many participants found bushfire preparedness information overwhelming and confusing, or found the generalised nature of the messaging not resonating with them,” says sociologist Dr Zoei Sutton, another researcher involved in the study in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences.

    “Yorke Peninsula participants in particular highlighted they did not have a clear, reliable safer place to evacuate to on a catastrophic fire danger day, adding to the complexity of their planning.”

    Many residents said they relied on informal networks such as family and community members for guidance and decision-making around when to leave ahead of a bushfire.

    The researchers say their report highlights the need for more tailored bushfire preparedness messaging that takes into account differing geographic and social factors.

    “Older Australians have a wealth of knowledge and much experience to offer. If we involve them in production of messaging it may resonate better with them, and we may see more older residents heed warnings and leave bushfire prone locations much earlier on catastrophic fire danger days,” says Professor Clarke.

    “Australia’s population is ageing, and the risk of bushfires is increasing. It is important vulnerable members of the community have access to meaningful messaging that is clear, practical and engaging. This will improve bushfire resilience that will ultimately save lives.”

    The team was assisted by South Australia’s Country Fire Service to undertake the research.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Opening of the new Canterbury Coastguard building

    Source: New Zealand Governor General

    E nga mana, e nga reo, e nga iwi o te motu e huihui nei, tēnei aku mihi nui ki a koutou. Kia ora tātou katoa.

    I specifically acknowledge: His Worship Phil Mauger; Commander Rob Hall and Sub Lieutenant Amos Kamo; Mishele Phillips Radford, Chair of Te Hapu o Ngati Wheke; Bennett Medary, President of Coastguard New Zealand and acting CEO Phil Harkness; and Mark Leggett, President of Coastguard Canterbury.

    It’s wonderful to be in Lyttleton today in support of two significant  community institutions. This morning, I visited Cholmondeley Children’s Centre to celebrate their 100 years of operation – and now it is my privilege to join you all in celebrating a new era for Coastguard Canterbury.

    I am also pleased to have this opportunity to see some of the latest progress in the rebuild after the Christchurch earthquake. Some people here today were no doubt severely affected – and I imagine all of you will know people who lost loved ones, homes and businesses.

    I cannot imagine how distressing it must have been to see the extensive damage to your town, port and landscape – including to your precious marine rescue centre.

    This wonderful new building is another great step in the rebuild, and an expression of confidence in the future. I am sure it will be a great amenity for Lyttleton.

    I come here today both as Governor-General, and also as Commander-in-Chief of New Zealand Defence Forces. Commander Hall, I am delighted to see HMNZS Canterbury here in port, and to be able to personally thank you for hosting my husband during what I hear was an unforgettable voyage to the Sub-Antarctic Islands.

    Your presence here reminds us that our Navy not only plays a role in military operations, disaster recovery, meteorology and scientific research – but also as a vital partner in our coastguard services.

    New Zealanders are so blessed to live on these beautiful islands, and we are never far from our stunning coastline and harbours. We have inherited great seafaring traditions, and our affinity with the sea runs deep.

    Tangaroa commands our respect as the origin of all living things on our planet, giving us life and sustenance. It can also be unforgiving for the inexperienced or foolhardy. As Ernest Hemingway once said: ‘The sea finds out everything you did wrong.’

    The thousands of historic shipwrecks on our coastline could suggest our forebears lacked skill and judgment as seafarers – but we know plans can go horribly wrong for even the most seasoned boatie or sailor.

    The sea is a great leveller. We can all become victims of tides, the elements, unfortunate accidents or medical events.

    The coastguard volunteers here today deserve our deepest gratitude for helping others who have got into difficulties – and for putting their own lives at risk.

    Martin Luther King said: ‘Life’s most persistent and urgent question is “what are you doing for others?”‘ So much of what is good and true in our communities is due to the commitment of volunteers – people who are prepared to devote their time, energy and skills in the service of public good.

    I also want to acknowledge the individuals and organisations who saw that Lyttleton’s coastguard volunteers needed a new home, and were determined to make this project become a reality.

    Lyttleton can be justly proud of this purpose-built facility, as well as the unwavering commitment of your coastguard volunteers to bring people in distress safely to shore. I wish you all the very best with that mission in the years ahead.

    Kia ora, kia kaha, kia manawanui, huihui tātou katoa.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Arrests made in Operation Sove – Stokes Valley murder and arson

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Attributable to Detective Inspector Haley Ryan:

    Hutt Valley Police have arrested three men in connection to the murder of a man in his 80s and the arson of his residential property last year.

    A homicide investigation was launched in November 2024, after one of three arsons at the Hanson Grove, Stokes Valley residential property resulted in the death of 82-year-old Ian David Moller.

    This morning, Police executed multiple search warrants within the Hutt Valley area, targeting the three men aged in their 20s and 30s. Two of the men have been charged with murder, arson and conspiring to commit arson and the third male has been charged with arson and conspiring to commit arson.  All three men have also been charged with participating in a in a criminal group. 

    All were due to appear in the Hutt Valley District Court this afternoon. Four others were arrested during the course of today’s warrants on unrelated matters.

    This has been a long and protracted enquiry, which has culminated in today’s arrests through the dedicated work of a team of detectives in the Hutt Valley and wider Wellington District.

    I have spoken with the Moller family who were relieved to hear the news, in what is a further step forward in coming to terms with what happened.

    Police would like to thank the Stokes Valley community who their continual support throughout this enquiry.

    We are confident there are further witnesses who may now feel comfortable coming forward and speaking with us and I would like to take this opportunity to urge them to do so.

    The three incidents occurred on Tuesday 5 November, Thursday 10 November, and Monday 14 November on Hanson Grove all occurring during the early hours of the morning.

    If you have information that may assist in our continued enquiry, please contact Police.

    You can report information to us on 105 either online or over the phone. Please reference file number 241105/2249 and quote Operation Sove. 

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Over 10 Years of Fujisawa Sustainable Smart Town: Opening Up New Possibilities Towards the Future

    Source: Panasonic

    Headline: Over 10 Years of Fujisawa Sustainable Smart Town: Opening Up New Possibilities Towards the Future

    For more than a decade, since its grand opening in 2014, Fujisawa Sustainable Smart Town (Fujisawa SST) has embodied a bold vision for life-centered, eco-conscious modern living. Presently some 2,000 people live in 566 smart town dwellings.
    Designed as a model for the cities of the future, it integrates sustainability, resilience, and well-being into every aspect of daily life. By combining smart technologies, renewable energy, and community-driven initiatives, Fujisawa SST creates an efficient resident-focused environment that sets a new standard for sustainable residential development.
    At the heart of Fujisawa SST is co-creation, where stakeholders actively shape the town’s evolution. From advanced mobility systems and sustainable solutions to wellness infrastructure, the town continuously refines how cutting-edge technology supports community values. This dynamic approach has made Fujisawa SST a real-world testing ground for future urban solutions, allowing it to scale innovations that enhance residents’ lives and serve as a blueprint for cities worldwide.

    A Demonstration of Smart City Excellence

    Since its opening, Fujisawa SST has successfully achieved its initial goals, fostering an expanding ecosystem of co-creation initiatives. The town has met its original environmental targets by reducing CO2 emissions by 70% (compared to 1990 levels) and household water consumption by 30% (compared to the 2006 standard of household equipment), while also achieving a renewable energy utilization rate of over 30% as part of its energy goals. Additionally, as part of its safety and security objectives, it has secured lifeline infrastructure for three days in case of emergencies.
    Co-creation activities such as community building and business incubation have also expanded, with over 100 demonstration experiments and marketing initiatives, including mobility solutions, and 10 successful business ventures emerging from the project.
    As a result, Fujisawa SST has earned high recognition as one of Japan’s leading real-world smart towns. It has received numerous domestic and international awards, and to date, has welcomed more than 41,000 visitors from 60 countries on study tours.
    “From the very beginning, our approach wasn’t just about closing down a former factory site—it was about creating a new town and finding a fresh way to contribute to the local community,” explains Fujisawa SST Project Leader, Harumi Tanaka, Manager of Smart City Group, Business Solutions Division, Panasonic Operational Excellence Co., Ltd. “By incorporating environmental initiatives and cutting-edge technology demonstrations, we’ve attracted visitors not only from across Japan but from around the world. It’s exciting to see our vision for a sustainable and innovative town being recognized and appreciated.”

    Expanding Renewable Energy and Circular Living

    As Fujisawa SST enters its next phase of development, environmental sustainability remains a top priority. By 2034, the town aims to reduce CO2 emissions by 50% compared to 2020 levels, with over 60% of its renewable energy self-consumption rate striving towards the goal of producing and consuming energy at home. To achieve this, the town is continuously evolving its energy infrastructure, enhancing solar power networks, and adopting next-generation energy storage technologies and energy saving solutions.
    One promising initiative in this transition is the deployment of Glass-based Perovskite Photovoltaic, which tested in a model home up to March of 2025. This next-generation photovoltaic offers not only high efficiency, but also flexibility in size, transmittance, and design, allowing for customization according to specific requirements, enabling power generation in places where conventional solar cells cannot be installed and making them ideal for urban environments. This so-called “energy-generating glass” aims to harmonize urban aesthetics with renewable energy generation, contributing to CO2 reduction and power resilience. By advancing such original technologies, Panasonic seeks to expand practical applications and drive the future of sustainable cityscapes.
    Another pillar of the town’s sustainability vision is the Circular Town Project, which focuses on optimizing resource use and minimizing waste. Its goal is to analyze material flows within the community and identify ways to improve recycling efficiency and reduce raw materials consumption. For example, excess renewable energy generated by homes can be shared with town facilities, ensuring a balanced and consistent supply. Additionally, local businesses and residents can actively participate in reuse initiatives, fostering a circular economy that prioritizes sustainability.
    Meanwhile, all single-family homes are equipped with a Home Energy Management System (HEMS), ensuring power and hot water supply through solar power and ENE-FARM (energy farming) systems in emergencies. Energy usage data collected via integrated HEMS in detached homes will not only help visualize the town’s environmental goals but also allow analysis of data tied to household demographics. This data-driven approach enables Fujisawa SST to evolve dynamically, ensuring a smarter, more resilient urban environment tailored to the needs of its residents.

    Innovations in Disaster Resilience

    Fujisawa SST was designed with resilience at its core, integrating advanced infrastructure and smart technologies to ensure stability in emergencies. The town’s disaster-resistant features include underground power and communication lines, earthquake-resistant gas pipelines, and decentralized energy systems that maintain reliable operations even during crises. Buildings incorporate passive design elements that enhance structural integrity while optimizing energy efficiency.
    To further strengthen preparedness, Fujisawa SST looks ahead to leveraging digital twin simulations to enhance disaster response strategies. Such real-time virtual models can allow authorities to simulate emergency scenarios, optimize evacuation plans, and improve coordination. Additionally, interactive drills and training sessions will ensure the community stays well-prepared and ready to respond effectively in times of crisis.
    Energy security is a key pillar of the town’s resilience strategy. The expansion of emergency energy storage solutions, including community power banks that store excess solar energy, will ensure a stable power supply during outages. AI-equipped drones will also be deployed for continuous risk management, monitoring environmental conditions, and optimizing crisis management efforts.
    In the event of a disaster, Fujisawa SST is designed to remain self-sufficient. The town will sustain three days of uninterrupted essential services and maintain a seven-day stockpile of food and water, ensuring the well-being of its residents. By prioritizing self-sufficiency and proactive crisis management, Fujisawa SST sets a new standard for disaster-resilient smart cities.

    Blending Smart Mobility with Community Well-Being

    Fujisawa SST is dedicated to enhancing residents’ well-being by integrating smart solutions that promote health, community engagement, and sustainable mobility under the theme, “fostering life skills from ages 0 to 100 and beyond.” The Park Wellstate Shonan senior residence features AI-assisted healthcare monitoring to assist a resident’s daily routines while ensuring safety and independence. Complementing this, the Wellness Square serves as a multi-functional hub, combining serviced housing for seniors with pharmacy, nursery, and cram school, creating an intergenerational space that fosters health, welfare, and lifelong learning.
    Active lifestyles and recreation also play a vital role in Fujisawa SST’s vision. The Mizuno Sports Plaza offers interactive wellness programs and community sports initiatives, encouraging residents of all ages to stay active while building social connections.
    Beyond physical health, social and cultural engagement are central to the town’s identity. Fujisawa SST hosts regular workshops, arts and culture festivals, and technology showcases, bringing together residents and external collaborators. Programs like the Fujisawa Town Parent Project empower locals to organize events that welcome neighboring communities and deepen their connection to the town.  
    The town is also reshaping urban mobility to make daily life more convenient and sustainable. Electric vehicle-sharing services, AI-powered route optimization, and pedestrian-friendly urban design are reducing congestion and improving accessibility, while also participating in Japan’s first demonstration experiment of simultaneous operation of 10 remotely operated small vehicles in multiple areas as an operation center and driving implementation site. Looking ahead, Fujisawa SST plans to pilot low-speed electric transport for short distances and drone-assisted delivery services, further enhancing urban mobility.     
    By integrating smart health services, active lifestyle programs, cultural initiatives, and sustainable transportation, Fujisawa SST continues to set new standards for community well-being in the cities of tomorrow.

    Expanding the Smart City Vision Beyond Borders

    As Fujisawa SST celebrates its 10th anniversary, it stands as a global model for sustainable city planning. Over the past decade, the town has demonstrated how smart technologies, community-driven initiatives, and resilient infrastructure can create a thriving, future-ready urban environment.
    With ambitious targets for carbon neutrality, disaster preparedness, and enhanced well-being, Fujisawa SST continues to push the boundaries of what a smart city can achieve.
    Looking ahead, the next phase of Fujisawa SST’s evolution will focus on scaling its innovative urban solutions beyond its current boundaries. By refining its smart city model and collaborating with new partners, the town aims to establish a replicable framework for sustainable urban development that can inspire communities worldwide.
    “With the opening of a residence for active seniors and a sports facility on October 1, 2024, we have completed the first chapter of Fujisawa SST’s development,” says Harumi Tanaka. “Now, as we enter the second chapter, we have restructured into the Fujisawa SST Consortium, welcoming new companies and organizations to further drive innovation.” 
    Beyond physical development, Tanaka’s group is focusing on enhancing the community experience by integrating new perspectives such as resource circulation and well-being. “With Environment, Safety and Security, and Health and Connection as our core themes, we are evolving our town services—including energy, security, mobility, wellness, and community—to expand and enrich Fujisawa SST for the future.”

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    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Media release: Industry welcomes Federal Opposition’s commitment to provide more certainty for critical gas projects – Australian Energy Producers

    Source: Australian Petroleum Production & Exploration Association

    Headline: Media release: Industry welcomes Federal Opposition’s commitment to provide more certainty for critical gas projects – Australian Energy Producers

    Australian Energy Producers welcomes the Federal Opposition’s commitment to expedite consideration of the North West Shelf extension alongside broader reforms to limit activist challenges to approvals and provide more certainty for critical projects.   

    Australian Energy Producers Chief Executive Samantha McCulloch said regulatory uncertainty and approval delays were a major barrier to new gas supply around Australia and were damaging Australia’s competitiveness for investment.  

    “The Opposition’s proposed reforms recognise the need for an effective and streamlined regulatory environment to provide greater certainty and attract investment in urgently needed new gas supply,” Ms McCulloch said. 

    “Australian gas producers are committed to providing reliable gas supply to Australians, but open-ended approval processes and activist lawfare are delaying critical projects and putting Australia’s energy security at risk.” 

    Ms McCulloch said the North West Shelf extension was critical to Western Australia’s long-term energy security and there was no justification for further delays to the project, which has already undergone six years of environmental assessments and secured state government approval. 

    “Western Australia runs on natural gas. Gas provides 54 per cent of WA’s primary energy and 60 per cent of the state’s electricity. The NWS extension is needed to ensure reliable and affordable gas supply to Western Australians, with the Australian Energy Market Operator forecasting gas shortfalls in WA from 2030.” 

    Ms McCulloch said the Opposition’s commitment to strengthen consideration of the economic and social significance of projects and limit activist challenges to approvals aligns with key reforms identified in Australian Energy Producers’ policy platform for the upcoming federal election.  

    “Natural gas will play an essential role in Australia’s energy mix to 2050 and beyond, but regulatory uncertainty, approval delays and policy interventions have delayed critical projects and damaged Australia’s reputation as a safe place to invest,” Ms McCulloch said.  

    “Without new gas projects, Australian households and businesses face higher energy prices, uncertain energy supply, and increased risk of blackouts that will hit every part of the economy. Addressing these risks should be a national priority.” 

    Read Australian Energy Producers’ policy platform for the 2025 Federal Election:  https://energyproducers.au/2025election     

    Media contact: 0434 631 511

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Senator Baldwin Continues “Hands Off Medicaid Tour” in Eau Claire

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin
    EAU CLAIRE, WI – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) continued her “Hands Off Medicaid Tour” in Eau Claire, calling out President Donald Trump and Congressional Republicans’ plan to slash Medicaid to pay for tax cuts for the wealthy. In Eau Claire, Senator Baldwin was joined by Wisconsinites who shared their stories about how Medicaid helps them and their families afford the care they need to stay healthy. About 152,900 Wisconsinites in Western Wisconsin – or Wisconsin’s 3rd Congressional District – utilize Medicaid for health care, including 21,600 seniors and 50,000 children.
    “Republicans are planning to terminate health care for our neighbors, friends, and loved ones on Medicaid – all to make room in the budget for new tax breaks for big corporations and the wealthiest. In Western Wisconsin, over 150,000 Wisconsinites’ care would be in jeopardy, from low-income children to seniors in nursing homes,” said Senator Baldwin. “Today, I was in Eau Claire to hear exactly what taking away this lifeline would mean for Wisconsinites and send the message loudly and clearly: Hands off Medicaid.”
    Senator Baldwin was joined by the following Wisconsinites who shared their stories and appealed to Congressional Republicans to stop their efforts to terminate the health care that keeps them and their families well:
    Adam and Janice Wojak – Fall Creek, WI – Adam and Janice shared the story of their son Chase who was diagnosed with autism at around three years old and uses Wisconsin’s Medicaid programs, which allows him to live at home under the care of his parents rather than in an institutional setting.
    Sharen Warden – Eleva, WI – Sharen shared that her husband is at an assisted living facility after he suffered a massive stroke, and relies on Medicaid. She shared she isn’t sure what they would do without Medicaid.
    Sandra Dye – Eau Claire, WI – Sandra’s son is 30 years old and has been suffering from chronic migraines since he was eight. Medicaid has made it possible for him to get the care that he needs to continue fighting for relief from his symptoms.
    Sharon Dillon – Eau Claire, WI – Sharon cannot afford medications for her chronic illnesses without Medicaid. She also has two adult children with autism that utilize Medicaid for care.
    Republicans are planning deep cuts to Medicaid that will jeopardize the coverage of 72 million Americans. In Wisconsin, over 1.2 million are enrolled in Medicaid. About 1 in 3 children in both Wisconsin’s rural and metro communities have Medicaid coverage. More than 300,000 kids under age 19 are members of BadgerCare Plus or another Wisconsin Medicaid program.
    Across the country, Medicaid covers nearly half of all children, 31.5 million, over 8.3 million seniors, and around 15 million people with disabilities. Medicaid also pays for 6 out of 10 residents in nursing homes, with 5.6 million Americans counting on Medicaid for their long-term care bills and Medicaid paying for over half of long-term care in the United States. Severe cuts to Medicaid will also jeopardize rural hospitals and clinics’ ability to keep their doors open. Over 12 million rural Americans rely on Medicaid for health care.
    The next stops of the “Hands Off Medicaid Tour” include:
    Madison and Racine on Thursday, March 20, 2025
    Waukesha on Friday, March 21, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Crypto Announcements – DDC Announces Strategy to Create Bitcoin Reserves and Appoints Crypto Asset Expert Alex Yang as Strategic Advisor

    Source: DDC Enterprise, Ltd.

    Bitcoin reserve to be established with up to 100 BTC injection and premium-priced placement of DDC Class A Ordinary shares at $0.50 to $1.25 per share

    NEW YORK – DDC Enterprise, Ltd. (NYSEAM: DDC), (“DayDayCook,” “DDC,” or the “Company”), a leading multi-brand Asian consumer food company, today announced a transformative initiative to adopt Bitcoin as part of its treasury reserves, alongside an announcement that brings seasoned Web3 and Crypto Assets Management Expert Alex Yang to DDC as Strategic Advisor. An investor group will inject up to 100 BTC in exchange for DDC Class A Ordinary shares at a range of $0.50 to $1.25 per share, representing a 100% to 400% premium to recent trading levels.

    Strategic Alignment with Institutional Confidence

    “This partnership is a testament to the shared conviction in DDC’s future and the value of Bitcoin and potentially other crypto currencies as a strategic asset,” said Ms. Norma Chu, Chairwoman and CEO of DDC Enterprise. “This strategic decision to launch a bitcoin reserve not only diversifies our balance sheet but also secures a premium-priced equity agreement that reflects our partner’s belief in our long-term growth. This move is the first of many that we will be making to integrate Web3 innovations to the DDC consumer community. Our next step is for the parties to enter into definitive agreements and then complete the initial Bitcoin purchase in the next 30 days.”

    Key Terms of the Planned Arrangement

    100 BTC Injection: Over the course of approximately 3 months, an investor group will contribute 100 BTC (valued at approximately $8,000,000 to $8,500,000 based on current prices) to DDC’s treasury reserves.
    Equity Issuance: DDC will issue shares to the investor group at a tiered premium pricing model starting at $0.50 per share to $1.25 per share every 4-6 weeks starting with an injection of the first 25 BTC at the initial closing
    Long-Term Commitment: Shares issued to the group will be subject to a minimum of 180-day lock up and performance milestones, underscoring the partner’s commitment to DDC’s long-term success.

    Strategic Rationale

    Balance Sheet Diversification: 100 BTC adds exposure to Bitcoin’s long-term upside potential.
    Premium Equity Pricing: The tiered share issuance model rewards DDC’s growth trajectory while protecting existing shareholders from dilution at undervalued levels.
    Institutional Validation: This new investor group’s participation signals confidence in DDC’s leadership and crypto-forward strategy.

    Industry Veteran Joins DDC as Strategic Advisor

    Mr. Alex Yang is a well respected veteran in the crypto and digital assets space. He is the CEO of Volmart, a market maker that cross trades among TradFi and digital assets on CME, Eurex, Bursa, and TFEX. Prior to Volmart, Mr. Yang was the CEO of Virtual Economy Tech Limited, a Blockchain service provider for CMI and CGSE. Mr. Yang is the vice chairman of Chinese Financial Association of Hong Kong, and Deputy Director of Innovation Center of Data Science, SUSTech. He is also a member of the Aspen Global Leadership Network.

    ABOUT DAYDAYCOOK

    DayDayCook is on a mission to share the joy of Asian cooking culture with the world, offering a suite of accessible and healthy ready-to-eat, ready-to-cook, and ready-to-heat products that cater to the global palate. DayDayCook has evolved from a culinary content authority to a multi-brand powerhouse, curating a broad range of products that champion authenticity, nutrition, and convenience. The company’s growing portfolio includes DayDayCook, Nona Lim, Yai’s Thai, Omsom, MengWei, and Yujia Weng.

    Follow the Company on LinkedIn.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Certain statements in this press release are forward-looking statements, including, for example, statements about completing definitive agreements with the Bitcoin investor and closing on the acquisitions of Bitcoin, NYSE and SEC compliance, estimated revenue, margins, cash and growth and expansion. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on the Company’s current expectations and projections about future events that the Company believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. These forward-looking statements are also based on assumptions regarding the Company’s present and future business strategies and the environment in which the Company will operate in the future. Investors can find many (but not all) of these statements by the use of words such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “likely to” or other similar expressions. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results in the Company’s registration statement and other filings with the SEC.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Trump-Putin ceasefire conversation shows no initial signs of bringing peace to Ukraine

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By James Horncastle, Assistant Professor and Edward and Emily McWhinney Professor in International Relations, Simon Fraser University

    Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed to a proposal by United States President Donald Trump for Russia and Ukraine to stop attacking each other’s energy infrastructure for 30 days, according to statements by both the White House and the Kremlin.

    Yet within hours of a Trump-Putin phone call about a U.S. ceasefire proposal, Russia was reportedly attacking Ukrainian energy facilities again, leading Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelenskyy to accuse Putin of effectively rejecting the terms.

    The deal falls short of an unconditional 30-day ceasefire proposed by U.S. and Ukrainian officials earlier this month.

    In fact, Trump’s latest phone call with Putin seemingly didn’t amount to any substantive changes, except for an apparently short-lived Russian agreement to refrain from targeting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure — a concession that might actually benefit Russia.

    The winter, when Ukraine is most vulnerable to Russian attacks on its energy infrastructure, is almost done. Russia’s dependence on energy exports to support its war effort, however, remains constant, and any Ukrainian attacks on Russian energy facilities will be framed as a breach by Russian authorities.

    Russia exploiting Trump’s desire for peace at any cost will probably be an ongoing trend.

    Given the earlier proposal was highly vague, this leads to one conclusion. Russia is playing for time to maximize its negotiating position.

    Trump’s goal

    The U.S. is playing an important role in peace negotiations. Under former president Joe Biden, this was due to the fact that the U.S. provided Ukraine with arms and moral support.

    Like most aspects of American policy, however, Trump dramatically pivoted, even attacking Zelenskyy in an infamous White House meeting in February. Now Trump is seeking a ceasefire, no matter what form it takes, to build a reputation as a statesman and distract Americans from domestic policy issues.



    Read more:
    What the U.S. ceasefire proposal means for Ukraine, Russia, Europe – and Donald Trump

    This development places Zelenskyy in a political bind. The U.S. in the past provided most of the military aid to Ukraine and the relationship between the Ukrainian leader and Trump is acrimonious.

    As such, even if Zelenskyy doesn’t agree with American ceasefire proposals, he must give the appearance of agreement or risk permanently alienating the mercurial Trump. Putin, in the meantime, will exploit any Ukrainian-American tensions.

    Current military situation

    The first year of the current phase of the Ukraine-Russia war was marked by mobility as both Russia and Ukraine made considerable advances and counteroffensives.

    Since the start of 2023, however, the conflict is increasingly defined as a war of attrition and a stalemate.

    Many analysts argue that such a war favours Russia. Wars of attrition are defined by slow, grinding advances whereby large casualties are a necessary byproduct for success. Given Russia’s material and personnel advantages, it can afford to suffer higher casualties.

    For the past several months, Russian forces have been making slow, steady advances against Ukrainian positions. Russia has suffered significant casualties in these advances, and they may not be sustainable over the long term.

    Putin is gambling that Ukraine’s and the international community’s will to fight will be broken by the time this is an issue. Trump’s push for a ceasefire at any cost suggests Putin may have a point.

    Any immediate ceasefire agreement between Russia and Ukraine would leave Ukraine occupying Russian soil in the Kursk region, which Russia cannot accept.

    Russia’s immediate goal

    Ukraine’s 2024 incursion into the Kursk region provided the country and its people with a necessary respite from the war of attrition. Ukrainian forces, attacking an under-defended and unprepared part of the Russian front line, made significant advances into Russia.

    Ukraine’s ability to maintain territory around Kursk has also proven to be an embarrassment for Putin and the Russian establishment.

    Putin recently said Russian forces encircled Ukrainian forces in the salient, although Ukraine denies it. Regardless of the statement’s validity, it speaks to the importance both parties attach to the battle.

    Russia’s reputation

    This issue highlights a particular problem for the Russian leadership. Russia has done its utmost to frame its so-called “special military operation” in Ukraine as a success. An example is Russia’s formal annexation of four Ukrainian areas in 2022, despite not actually possessing the territory at the time.

    Any perception of the invasion of Ukraine as a failure is a non-starter for a Russian government concerned about its domestic standing.

    Ukraine possessing Russian territory, however, leads to questions in Russia about the war’s success. Ukraine, in exchange for relinquishing any Russian territory it seized during the war, would undoubtedly seek the return of Ukrainian territory.

    Russia has not even achieved its minimal goals of seizing the four Ukrainian regions it’s officially annexed. Therefore, it’s unlikely Putin would ever agree to the exchange of the territory it has actually already seized in exchange for the Kursk salient.

    Putin is following the Russian playbook of negotiating from strength. So long as Ukraine maintains Kursk, Russia will not negotiate in good faith.

    While Kursk is the most prominent area of Russia concern, there are other conditions that will become important in the future as Putin seeks to improve Russia’s negotiating position.

    It’s a lesson that Trump will soon learn, despite any and all efforts he or his administration make to frame things positively.

    James Horncastle 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. Trump-Putin ceasefire conversation shows no initial signs of bringing peace to Ukraine – https://theconversation.com/trump-putin-ceasefire-conversation-shows-no-initial-signs-of-bringing-peace-to-ukraine-252368

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI China: Death toll rises to 413 as Israeli airstrike continues

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Palestinians mourn for victims who were killed by Israeli airstrikes at a hospital in Gaza City on March 18, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The Palestinian death toll from the Israeli airstrikes on various places across the Gaza Strip early Tuesday morning has risen to 413, the Gaza-based health authorities said.

    In a press statement, the health authorities said that the ongoing Israeli attacks also injured at least 562 Palestinians.

    The statement added that a number of victims are still trapped under the rubble and efforts are underway to retrieve them.

    Meanwhile, the Israeli military and Shin Bet domestic intelligence agency said Tuesday afternoon that they were continuing to strike Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad targets across Gaza.

    “At this time, the IDF (Israel Defense Forces) and Shin Bet are striking terror targets throughout the Gaza Strip,” the military and Shin Bet said in a joint statement, adding that “the targets struck over the past few hours include terrorist cells, launch posts, weapons stockpiles, and additional military infrastructure.”

    Israel said it was resuming strikes because of Hamas’ repeated refusals to release its hostages and its rejection of all offers it received from the U.S. presidential envoy Steve Witkoff and mediators.

    Hamas accused Israel of violating the ceasefire that took effect on Jan. 19 and called on mediators to pressure Israel to halt the military campaign. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Stranded NASA astronauts return to Earth from space

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    NASA astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore, who had been stranded at the International Space Station (ISS) since last June, returned to Earth Tuesday afternoon.

    The duo astronauts returned home with their fellow Crew-9 astronauts, NASA astronaut Nick Hague and Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov, on SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft.

    The spacecraft splashed down off Florida’s coast at 5:57 p.m. Tuesday Eastern Time (2157 GMT), according to NASA live broadcast.

    The crew undocked with the ISS early on Tuesday to start an about 17-hour journey home. The spacecraft completed multiple orbit-lowering maneuvers, and re-entered Earth’s atmosphere before a parachute-supported splashdown off Florida’s coast.

    A recovery ship moved into position to hoist Dragon onto the main deck with the Crew-9 crew members inside, and teams on the ship secured Dragon to ensure the spacecraft’s safe recovery.

    After the hatch was opened, the four astronauts egressed the capsule one by one with the help of medical personnel. Medical teams will evaluate the crew’s health, which is routine after astronauts return from space, according to NASA.

    The crew splashed down one day earlier than NASA had targeted due to favorable conditions forecast for the evening of Tuesday, according to the space agency, which expressed concerns about weather conditions later in the week.

    Williams and Wilmore had been stuck in space since last June due to technical problems of Boeing’s Starliner which took them to the ISS, including helium leaks and propulsion issues. The duo astronauts were initially scheduled for an eight-day mission in space, but were stranded at the ISS for over nine months.

    The Crew-9 astronauts returned home following the arrival of new mission Crew-10 astronauts at the ISS, including NASA astronauts Anne McClain and Nichole Ayers, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency astronaut Takuya Onishi, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Kirill Peskov.

    NASA said Crew-9 astronauts have completed more than 900 hours of research between more than 150 unique scientific experiments and technology demonstrations during their stay aboard the orbiting laboratory. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: How Jia Zhangke’s film Caught by the Tides uses 20 years of footage to capture a changing China

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Thomas Moran, Lecturer in the Department of English, Creative Writing and Film, University of Adelaide

    MK2 Films

    Chinese independent director Jia Zhangke’s new film Caught by the Tides, now in select Australian cinemas, provides a unique vision of China’s rapid social transformation in the 21st century.

    Using a combination of documentary footage and scenes shot by Jia over the past 20 years during the making of his earlier films, Caught by the Tides follows Qiaoqiao (Zhao Tao) and her boyfriend, small-time hustler Bin (Li Zhubin).

    Bin leaves their small town to make his fortune working on the Three Gorges Dam and Qiaoqiao goes to find him, taking her on a journey through the changing landscape of contemporary China.

    The film not only registers monumental changes, like the building of the dam, but the minutiae of everyday details from changing fashion to altered streetscapes.

    Jia’s film is a quiet and meditative affair which dwells on the passage of time in a fast-paced world. The film not only captures 20 years in a rapidly changing China, but also offers a reflection on Jia’s career as a filmmaker.

    Framing the provinces

    Jia was born in 1970. He grew up in the city of Fenyang, Shanxi province, and came of age during Deng Xiaoping’s economic liberalisation and “opening up” of the 1980s.

    He studied at the Beijing Film Academy before returning home to shoot his first feature Xiao Wu (Pickpocket) in 1997.

    The films he made in Shanxi – Xiao Wu, Platform (2000) and Unknown Pleasures (2002) – have been dubbed his “hometown trilogy”.

    Shanxi is known for its notoriously dangerous coal mining industry. Jia focused on the lives of those left behind by China’s “economic miracle” and life outside of the metropolis. His use of non-actors, preference for street shooting and slow minimalist style set his work apart from commercial Chinese cinema.

    The second film in the trilogy, Platform, includes a mesmerising performance from Zhao Tao, then an unknown actor who has since starred in all of Jia’s later films. Zhao and Jia were married in 2012. Zhao is a key artistic collaborator whose portrayal of strong female protagonists is central to all the director’s later work.

    Cinema and cultural memory

    Jia’s international breakthrough came with Still Life (2006), shot in the ancient area of Fengjie on the banks of the Yangtze while cities were being demolished and thousands displaced to make way for the Three Gorges Dam.

    Working on Still Life confirmed Jia’s belief in “cinema’s function as memory” which captures the present before it disappears. Still Life combined Jia’s early realist style with a new surreal approach, including a building taking off and a mysterious flying saucer zooming into the distance.

    To Jia, this blend of realism and surrealism is essential for portraying China’s rapid historical transformation. He says the speed of development in China “has had an unsettling surreal effect”.

    To represent this, he has experimented with all the possibilities of cinema blending documentary, fiction, animation, pop music, Chinese opera and digital images to create a stunning body of work.

    Caught by the tides of history

    Caught by the Tides continues Jia’s experimentation with cinema and history in his most ambitious work to date.

    Production was influenced by the COVID pandemic, when Jia was unable to start work on a new film. Instead, he began to review footage he and his director of photography Yu Lik-Wai had shot since 2001.

    Jia describes the process of reviewing the footage as “like time-travelling” as he returned to the beginning of the 21st century and his youth.

    The film is partly composed of a collage of documentary footage which Jia and his collaborators spent over two years editing. We see excitement in the streets when Beijing is announced as the host city of the 2008 Olympic Games, before cutting to a montage of young people dancing in strobe-lit underground nightclubs.

    This kaleidoscope of documentary footage is combined with scenes shot during the making of Jia’s earlier films. From this combination of archival footage featuring Jia’s regular stars Zhao and Li Zubin, a story emerges about China’s rapid change.

    Jia began work on Caught by the Tides during COVID.
    MK2 Films

    As Qiaoqiao guides the viewer through the chaotic transformations taking place in the country, there is something particularly arresting about seeing places and actors change before our very eyes.

    The final scenes, shot with modern digital cameras, have a sleek and cold aesthetic in contrast to the pixelated early footage. It is in part a reflection of Jia’s own melancholic view of historical change in which the past is forgotten, and the everyday lives of ordinary people disappear from view. Yet as a whole, the film suggests cinema can preserve the past and give dignity and beauty to everyday experiences.

    Caught By the Tides provides viewers with a refreshing glimpse of Chinese life from within. Cinema like Jia’s remains in a unique position to promote a more nuanced view of China’s complex and ever-evolving history.

    Thomas Moran 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. How Jia Zhangke’s film Caught by the Tides uses 20 years of footage to capture a changing China – https://theconversation.com/how-jia-zhangkes-film-caught-by-the-tides-uses-20-years-of-footage-to-capture-a-changing-china-252392

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Cardio and strength training boost health as you age. But don’t forget balance exercises to reduce your chance of falls

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Anne Tiedemann, Professor of Physical Activity and Health, University of Sydney

    shurkin_son/Shutterstock

    We all recognise the benefits of regular aerobic or cardiovascular exercise to support our heart and lung health. Being active is also good for our social and mental health. And strength training promotes strong bones and muscles.

    But as we age, we also need to train our balance to avoid falls.

    Around one in three people aged 65 and over have a fall each year.

    Falls are a common cause of disability and loss of independence in older age and can lead to an older person moving from living independently into living in a residential aged care facility. More than 6,000 older Australians die each year from falls.

    But many falls are preventable. So exercise that targets balance and strength is crucial.

    How much do we need to do?

    International guidelines recommend all older people exercise to prevent falls, even if they’ve never fallen. Prevention is far better than cure.

    Other guidelines recommend people aged 65 and over do “functional balance and strength training” on three or more days a week, to improve their ability to do day-to-day activities, stay independent, and prevent falls.

    Since balance starts to decline at around age 50, it’s even better to start training balance before the age of 65.

    In order to increase our muscle strength, we need to progressively lift heavier weights. Similarly, to boost our balance, we need to practise activities that progressively challenge it. This improves our ability to stay steady in difficult situations and avoid falling.

    Functional training means doing a physical activity that imitates everyday activities, such as standing up out of a chair, or stepping onto a step.

    When you practise the everyday activities necessary for living independently, you improve your ability to perform them. This reduces the likelihood of falling when doing those activities, and therefore helps you maintain your independence for longer.

    What exercises can you do?

    The best exercises to challenge our balance system and reduce the risk of falling are performed while standing, rather than seated.

    For example, you can stand with your feet close together or on one leg (if it’s safe to do so) while also performing controlled upper-body movements, such as leaning and reaching. This is a functional balance exercise and it can be made progressively more challenging as your balance improves.

    Here are some exercises you can practise at home:

    Sit to stand

    Practise standing up from a seated position ten times every hour or so. See if you can do it without using your arms for support. To increase the balance challenge, place a cushion under the feet.

    Heel-raises

    Rise up onto your toes and hold the position for a few seconds. Hold on to a bench or wall for support if you need to but gradually remove the support as your balance improves. To increase the balance challenge, try doing this with your eyes closed.

    You can make heel-raises progressively harder.
    Mary Rice/Shutterstock

    Heel-toe walking

    Practise walking along an imaginary line, with one foot placed in front of the other. Hold on to a bench or wall for support if you need to but gradually remove the support as your balance improves.

    Stepping in different directions

    Practise quickly stepping forwards, sideways and backwards. Being able to move our feet quickly can help avoid a fall if you trip on something. If you are able, more challenging activities include stepping up or jumping onto a box.

    Squats and lunges

    Squats and lunges improve balance and leg strength. Add some hand weights to increase the challenge.

    Squats improve balance and leg strength.
    LightField Studios/Shutterstock

    These examples and others can be found on the Safe Exercise at Home website.

    Make it regular – and tailor it to your needs

    It’s important that balance challenging exercises are performed regularly, at least three times per week. The benefits of exercise are lost if you stop doing them, so ongoing practice is important.

    People of all abilities can safely undertake balance training exercise, however extra guidance and support is recommended for people who have physical limitations, are frail, or who are at a higher risk of falls.

    For younger or fitter people, agility activities such as rapid stepping, dancing and running are likely to improve co-ordination and balance too.

    So next time you are carrying out your exercise routine, ask yourself: what am I doing to improve my balance? Investing in balance training now can help you avoid falls, and lead to greater independence in older age.

    Anne Tiedemann receives research funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia and from the Medical Research Future Fund of Australia. She has voluntary roles with the World Falls Prevention Society and with the Australia and New Zealand Falls Prevention Society.

    Cathie Sherrington receives funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council and the Medical Research Future Fund of Australia. She has voluntary roles with the Australian and New Zealand Fall Prevention Society, the International Society for Physical Activity and Health, the International Society for Behavioural Nutrition and Physical Activity, the Fragility Fracture Network.

    Geraldine Wallbank 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. Cardio and strength training boost health as you age. But don’t forget balance exercises to reduce your chance of falls – https://theconversation.com/cardio-and-strength-training-boost-health-as-you-age-but-dont-forget-balance-exercises-to-reduce-your-chance-of-falls-249375

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: WILLIAMSTOWN (Grass Fire)

    Source: Country Fire Service – South Australia

    Homes that have been built to withstand a bushfire, and are prepared to the highest level, may provide safety.

    You may lose power, water, phone and data connections.

    Fire crews are responding but you should not expect a firefighter at your door.

    What you should do

    • Check and follow your Bushfire Survival Plan.
    • Protect yourself from the fire’s heat – put on protective clothing.
    • Tell family or friends of your plans.

    If you are leaving

    • Leave now, don’t delay.
    • Roads may become blocked or access may change. Smoke will reduce visibility.
    • Secure your pets for travel.
    • If you become stuck in your car, park away from bushes, cover yourself, get onto the floor as the windows may break from the intense heat.

    If you are not leaving – prepare to defend

    • Identify a safe place inside, with more than one exit, before the fire arrives. Keep moving away from the heat of the fire.
    • Bring pets inside and restrain them.
    • Move flammable materials such as doormats, wheelie bins and outdoor furniture away from your house.
    • Close doors and windows to keep smoke out.
    • If you have sprinklers, turn them on to wet the areas.
    • If the building catches fire, go to an area already burnt. Check around you for anything burning.

    MIL OSI News –