NewzIntel.com

Category: Justice

  • MIL-OSI: Moonacy Protocol Announces Closed Airdrop

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    London, UK, April 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Moonacy Protocol, a well-known cross-chain exchange, has announced the imminent launch of an airdrop of its own token, which will be an important element of the project’s future B2B payment system.

    According to the information released by the team, the development of its payment system is already nearing completion. The Moonacy token will serve as an internal settlement instrument, participate in the prioritization of transactions, and be used to pay commission fees in the ecosystem. 

    The internal token will become an important element of the entire ecosystem and will be used:

    •    to pay commission fees in the B2B payment system;
    •    as a priority resource for routing transactions;
    •    as a means of settlement between corporate clients.

    It is important to note that the token will be more than just a “gas” of the platform. It will be the basis for automating payment flows within Moonacy and external corporate systems through API integrations.

    Moonacy Protocol announced that all Moonacy Prime Package holders will have access to the initial airdrop of the Moonacy token and will get a head start before the listing. Market analysts are already calling Moonacy’s airdrop “one of the most anticipated events of the spring” in the DeFi infrastructure niche.

    An important confirmation of serious intentions was the official launch of Moonacy Protocol in the USA. This gives the project the opportunity to operate in a new jurisdiction, participate in B2B partnerships with US and international players, and bring the token to regulated markets in the future.

    The exact start date of the airdrop will be announced soon on the platform’s official channels.

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council helps to deliver social change

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    Council was delighted to support cultural diversity and inclusion awareness events across Southern Regional College (SRC). In an increasingly interconnected world, students at the college immersed themselves in the vibrant tapestry of cultures that enrich Northern Ireland.

    The events featured a dynamic mix of workshops, discussions and performances, all designed to showcase the rich diversity within local communities. Students had the opportunity to engage with key stakeholders from the Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP), Armagh Banbridge and Craigavon Community Development and Good Relations Team, Victim Support NI and the Police Service for Northern Ireland (PSNI).

    Artsekta, an award-winning social enterprise dedicated to transforming communities through shared creative experiences, brought the essence of global cultures to life with captivating dance performances from Mexico, China and India. These performances were followed by insightful talks on the traditions and heritage of these countries. Student Celine Maria Corhea also spoke on her Romanian roots and gave fellow students an insight into her heritage.

    Victim Support NI and the PSNI addressed sensitive topics which included discrimination, prejudice and social challenges which continue to remain present within our communities. Discussions centred on how individuals can safely confront negativity and introduced students to various local support services available for those who witness or experience hate crime in their community.

    Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough, Councillor Sarah Duffy, said; “ABC Council is delighted to work in partnership with SRC to support their cultural diversity and inclusion events. Communities across our borough are passionate about celebrating diversity, fostering inclusivity and working towards a shared and brighter future for all and we as a council are proud to play our part.”

    Speaking on the events, Michael Availa from Victim Support NI commented; “With hate crime rising across NI, the Hate Crime Advocacy Service wants to ensure that SRC students are keenly aware of how to identify, report and seek support for hate incidents and that the community is resilient. Having worked with SRC over the last year, it is very clear that its students are ‘ahead of the curve’ on these issues and readily embrace diversity.”

    The events at SRC’s Armagh and Lurgan campuses were funded by The Executive Office District Council’s Good Relations Action Plan and delivered in partnership with Artsekta, Victim Support, PCSP, the Community Development and Good Relations Team and SRC.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Met officers recover £50k of stolen tools in east London

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Around £50,000 worth of stolen tools were recovered during a Metropolitan Police operation at a car boot sale in Rainham, east London.

    In response to concerns from tradespeople about a rise in tool thefts, the Met worked with Essex Police and trading standards officers to carry out a large search of the Willow Farm Car Boot Sale on Sunday, 6 April.

    By using intelligence, and with the help of a dog that can sniff out items marked with forensic water, officers identified and seized around 1,000 suspected stolen tools.

    Four men, aged between 40 and 60, from Hackney and Southend-on-Sea were arrested on suspicion of handling stolen goods.

    A number of suspected stolen bikes, as well as cash, illegal vapes and other counterfeit goods were also seized.

    Inspector Mark Connolly, from the Met’s neighbourhood policing team in east London, said:

    “We’ve heard from hard-working Londoners about the financial and personal impact of tool theft and we’re working hard across the Met to tackle it.

    “As well as working with partners to target prolific offenders in proactive and intelligence-led operations such as this, we’re also carrying out tool marking events to make it harder for criminals to sell on stolen goods.”

    Inspector Daniel Selby, from Essex Police’s Grays Neighbourhood Policing Team, said:

    “Trading stolen or counterfeit goods is illegal and inexcusable, so we are working with our partners to disrupt supply lines and arrest those who are profiting from crime.

    “Hard-working tradespeople rely on their tools to make a living and we appreciate how devastating the implications of a theft can be for victims and their families at a time when many people are struggling financially.

    “Purchasing illegitimate goods only serves to line the pockets of the criminals, creates a market that inevitably leads to more offending, and can land the buyer in serious trouble.”

    Officers will work over the coming weeks to identify the tools and trace their original owners.

    Any tradespeople or those in possession of power tools are advised to mark their property, take photographs, and record serial numbers so that, in the event of theft, officers have more chance of returning property.

    Marking tools with SelectaDNA forensic water also helps officers identify stolen goods. Met officers will be hosting a free tool marking event at the Toolstation in Ramac Way in Charlton between 07:30hrs and 14:00hrs on Tuesday, 8 April.

    We also advise reporting any thefts in a timely manner, providing as much detail as possible. Removing tools from your vehicles overnight will also help deter thieves.

    We urge the public not to buy goods you know or suspect to be stolen or counterfeit, as this feeds organised crime. If the price seems too good to be true, it could be the item is either stolen or fake. Buying goods you know or suspect to be stolen is a criminal offence.

    If you suspect anyone of selling stolen or counterfeit goods, you can report this to us online or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Illicit cigarettes, tobacco and vapes seized from city store by council’s Trading Standards team

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    Acting on complaints, the council’s Trading Standards team and officers from Bilston Police targeted a premises in the city where the goods were believed to be on sale.

    Thousands of illegal items were found in the shop itself as well as in a storeroom and a concealed staircase.

    Officers found 13,680 illicit cigarettes, 3.1kg of banned hand rolling tobacco and 1,546 illicit disposable vapes. In addition, 12 banned novelty lighters were discovered along with 16 vials of an unidentified liquid, suspected to be nicotine.

    If genuine, the retail value of the vapes seized is an estimated £15,000, the value of the cigarettes seized is around £9,918 and the value of the hand rolling tobacco would be an estimated £1,890.

    Action is set to be taken against the owner of the premises where the material was seized while further investigations will be carried out to identify their suppliers.

    Once investigations have been completed, the illegal cigarettes and tobacco will be handed over to a recycling scheme to be dealt with in an environmentally friendly way.

    The seizures, which took place during an operation on 19 March, were carried out under 2 national Trading Standards initiatives, Operation CeCe and Operation Joseph.

    Councillor Bhupinder Gakhal, cabinet member for resident services at City of Wolverhampton Council, said: “We are determined to clamp down on the availability of illicit products and are particularly concerned with illegal sales made to our younger residents.

    “This operation forms part of our wider strategy in dealing with this issue and we will continue to carry out routine test purchases alongside targeted action days.

    “I’d like to congratulate all those involved in this successful partnership operation, including our Trading Standards team and Bilston Police.”

    Lord Michael Bichard, Chair, National Trading Standards, said: “The trade in illegal tobacco harms local communities and affects honest businesses operating within the law.

    “Having removed 19 million illegal cigarettes and 5,103kg of hand rolling tobacco in 2023 to 2024, Operation CeCe (a National Trading Standards initiative in partnership with HMRC) has taken £27.2 million pounds worth of illicit tobacco off the market since the operation launched in 2021 and continues to successfully disrupt this illicit trade.”

    Officers from our Trading Standards team have issued some warning signs to look out for when buying cigarettes and tobacco or vapes.

    The telltale signs of illegal tobacco include unusual taste, cheap price, unusual packaging, spelling mistakes or incorrect logos. They may also have health warnings that may not be printed in English, might not display a picture, might not be printed on a white background and may have different sized lettering to usual.

    Residents are advised to look out for the following when buying vapes:

    • The product must have a ‘warning’ diamond of not less than 10mm x 10mm containing an exclamation mark/skull and crossbones and the words Warning/Danger clearly visible on the packaging.
    • There is a requirement for a batch number or other means to identify the specific production of the product, to permit the tracing of the product should a safety issue be raised.
    • 30% of the packaging must display the required warning “this product contains nicotine which is a highly addictive substance” on both the front and back surfaces of the unit pack.  
    • Illicit vapes are often produced in China. Many illicit vapes have packaging clearly meant for the American/Californian market.

    Anyone who thinks they may have been sold illegal goods or suspect someone is selling them, can email trading.standards@wolverhampton.gov.uk    

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: More EV chargers on the way

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Recently installed chargers are making electric vehicle charging more accessible.

    A new round of ACT Government grants will fund the delivery of 39 more electric vehicle chargers (EV) across the city by 2025.

    Installing more public chargers will support the ACT’s efforts to electrify Canberra’s transport system. It will help reach the ACT Government’s goal of 180 public EV chargers by 2025.

    Providing more DC fast chargers will plug gaps in Canberra’s existing charger network. Having a good mix of DC fast chargers and slower AC chargers means that people can charge in a way that suits their needs. This includes charging quickly when needed or using an AC charger for longer visits like work, school, or sport.

    The 39 chargers will be installed in places where Canberrans and visitors need them most, including:

    • near tourist hot spots
    • shopping centres
    • high-density residential areas.

    New chargers for ANU and Marketplace Gungahlin

    Three new DC fast chargers have been installed at ANU and Marketplace Gungahlin respectively to help make charging more accessible.

    Each set of three chargers are 150kW and can charge six vehicles at once. They are close to nearby apartments and employment hubs.

    People who live in apartments and townhouses have extra barriers to installing home chargers. This is why the ACT Government is prioritising putting public chargers in areas of high-density housing.

    The government will also work with grant recipients to deliver charging bays in priority locations that will be accessible to EV drivers with mobility issues.

    “It’s important to place EV charging infrastructure in convenient locations where people want to go, be it a university, shopping centre, tourism destination or somewhere they visit as part of their daily routine,” Greg Schumann, ENGIE ANZ Director of Green Mobility said.

    A growing network of chargers

    The successful providers for the first projects to be supported by this new funding are ActewAGL, BP, ENGIE and EVIE.

    “We’re committed to keeping Australian EV drivers charged up, by rolling out a national network of bp pulse charge points,” Frédéric Baudry, President bp Australia and Senior Vice President Mobility, Convenience, & Midstream, Asia Pacific said.

    “We know that the ACT is home to more EV drivers than anywhere else in Australia, and with the support of the ACT Government, we’ll be bringing the best of our charging and convenience offers to these drivers on the go when they visit bp.”

    There are currently 156 public EV charging stations operating across the ACT. 39 public EV chargers with 65 charging bays* have been delivered through previous government funding. A further 21 chargers are still to be delivered under the previous grant round by the end of 2024.

    Find more information on the Public EV Charging Infrastructure Fund visit the Everyday Climate Choices website.

    A map of public charging stations in the ACT, and across Australia, is available at www.plugshare.com.

    * This figure is an indication of the number of future chargers as of May 2024. The number and location of future chargers supported by government funding is subject to change.

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Woden, Weston Creek and Molonglo for dogs

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Mawson Oval is a favourite with locals.

    Looking for somewhere new to exercise your dog? We’ve pulled together some of the best spots around the Woden, Weston Creek and Molonglo region. There are plenty of on and off-leash spaces calling your name.

    Checking out a new area has great benefits for both you and your dog. The fresh autumn air and new things to see and sniff is sure to result in a happy, tired pooch and is great for their mental stimulation.

    Dog park

    Duffy Dog Park – Warragamba Avenue, Duffy

    This fenced dog park opened in 2022 for registered and vaccinated dogs. Remember your dog must also be desexed to enter a dog park (unless you have a permit).

    You’ll find separate areas for large and small dogs, with doggie drinking water provided.

    Your dog will delight in zooming around this park, which offers dirt, grass and woodchip areas to play in.

    Benches, a shade sail and shady trees allow you to relax while your dog burns off energy with their pals.

    Off-leash areas

    There are almost 20 areas where dogs can be off-leash in the Woden, Weston Creek and Molonglo region.

    Here are a few good options.

    Uriarra Crossing, Uriarra Road – Murrumbidgee River

    This classic swimming spot is well worth the drive.

    The river is split by an expansive park on the east bank. There is also a smaller, more secluded spot on the west bank.

    All the beaches here are off-leash, giving your dog plenty of options to swim and socialise. But remember, not all dogs are social, so be sure to ask their owner if they can play and before patting them.

    To keep your two and four-legged companions safe, ensure you always have effective control of your dog. You must be able to prevent your dog from approaching other animals or people by either restraining the dog or using commands.

    To learn more about gorgeous local spots to take your dog, and about your responsibilities while using these spaces, visit cityservices.act.gov.au/pets-and-wildlife/domestic-animals/dogs/recreation-with-my-dog.

    Holder Wetlands

    Located between Dixon Drive and Cotter Road, the wetlands is a great spot for both exercise and nature watching.

    The popular Centenary Trail runs through this area. There is a walking track, however, be sure to move at least 10 metres from the path if you’d like your dog to go off-leash.

    Mawson Neighbourhood Oval

    This partially fenced oval is a favourite with locals.

    Well-socialised dogs can run, play, chase balls and generally have a blast in this grassy area.

    Your dog is free to roam and play on the oval while it’s not in use, However, if it’s booked for formal sport (including training sessions), you’ll need to come back another time.

    Check when the sportsground is booked for use.

    You’ll need to keep your dog on-leash on all footpaths, regardless of whether you’re in an off-leash area or not.

    On-leash areas

    Isaacs Ridge Nature Reserve

    Get your nature fix on this 4.5km circuit track, as you and your dog walk or run beneath the shady pines and eucalypts.

    Be sure to remain on the track as you take in views of Isaacs and neighbouring O’Malley.

    It’s also worth noting you may encounter horses on the track.

    Cooleman Ridge Nature Reserve

    With beautiful views in all directions, this protected area is popular with hikers, cyclists and dog-walkers alike.

    Lace up your walking shoes, snap on your dog’s leash and set out for an on-leash sniffari.

    You’ll find a combination of fire trails and single tracks, surrounded by bushland.

    Other on-leash areas include all streets, verges, footpaths and cycle paths. You’ll also need to keep your dog on their leash if you’re within 10 metres either side of the path.

    No matter where in the region your adventures take you, you need to pick up after your dog. Failing to pick up your dog droppings is an offence that carries a fine of $150. Failing to carry the correct equipment to collect your dog droppings carries a $75 fine.

    Learn more about local spots to take your dog or view on-leash, off-leash, conditional off-leash and dog prohibited areas on ACTmapi’s dog exercise area map.

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Helping Canberrans to take control of chronic illness

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    During the group sessions, participants are supported to find ways to reach their health goals and manage their chronic condition.

    Nearly 50 per cent of the ACT population live with at least one chronic condition, while one in five live with two or more chronic conditions.

    For these Canberrans, living their best life can seem like a challenge. Take Control – Live Well is a free program that’s supporting adults with chronic illness to make changes and live well.

    “While everyone’s journey with their long-term condition is different, many people have trouble finding, accessing, or don’t know about, supports that are available in Canberra to help them live their best life with their condition,” Community Care Health Promotion Officer Chelsea Hillenaar said.

    “The program helps Canberrans to feel more in control and be able to live the life that is important to you. You also get some tools to help manage the impacts your chronic condition has on wellbeing.”

    Here’s everything you need to know about the Take Control – Live Well program:

    What is it?

    The Take Control – Live Well program is free three-week group program.

    What does it involve?

    There is one session per week over the three weeks. During these sessions, participants are supported to find ways to reach their health goals and manage their chronic condition.

    Topics that are discussed in the group session include:

    • how to get the best out of your health appointment
    • looking after your mental and physical health
    • finding local support services
    • how to find reliable health information.

    Participants also receive a book of resources. They will write their own plan to work towards living their best life.

    After the three weeks, participants have the option of receiving SMS support for up to three months.

    Who is it for?

    The program is for adults in the ACT who live with at least one chronic condition.

    What classifies as a chronic illness?

    Chronic conditions are long-term conditions which are persistent and generally do not go away over time.

    They can come on suddenly or gradually, and many get worse over time.

    Some examples include:

    • arthritis
    • asthma
    • back pain
    • cancer
    • kidney disease
    • mental health conditions
    • diabetes
    • heart disease.

    The Take Control – Live Well program is open to anyone experiencing a health condition that has lasted for three months or longer.

    Where is the program running?

    • Tuggeranong Community Health Centre starting Wednesday 7 August at 1pm.
    • Online starting 10 September at 4:30pm.
    • Belconnen Community Health Centre starting Thursday 10 October at 1pm.

    How can I participate?

    You can refer yourself to the Take Control – Live Well program.

    To register, call Central Health Intake on (02) 5124 9977.

    Find out more about the program.

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Goodies Junction helps Canberrans reuse and recycle

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Goodies Junction will begin operating on 31 May 2024, with stores opening on 1 July 2024.

    Goodies Junction, the ACT’s reusable facilities formerly operated by The Green Shed, will open on 31 May 2024.

    St Vincent de Paul Canberra/Goulburn (Vinnies) will operate Goodies Junction.

    The two Goodies Junction locations are at the Mitchell and Mugga Lane Resource Management Centres.

    During the transition, plans are in place to minimise disruption to the community.

    Between 31 May 2024 and 1 July 2024, there will be some changes to operations. This will allow Goodies Junction to prepare the facilities for the community.

    Donating goods

    The process for donating goods through the existing vehicle drop‑off arrangements will remain unchanged.

    Goodies Junction will be open to receive donations from the community from 8am Friday 31 May 2024.

    You can continue to drop‑off your goods for free through the existing vehicle drop off arrangements. This is available from 7:30am to 4:45pm, Monday to Sunday, at Goodies Junction located at the Mitchell and Mugga Lane Resource Management Centres.

    All donations that were accepted before can continue to be dropped off. This includes:

    • furniture
    • electrical equipment
    • clothing
    • building materials
    • tools.

    Shops

    The Goodies Junction shops will be closed to the public from Friday 31 May 2024 and will reopen at 7:30am on Monday 1 July 2024.

    This is to allow Vinnies time to fit out the buildings and prepare the retail space for the community.

    From Monday 1 July 2024, the Goodies Junction shops will be open from 7:30am to 4:45pm, Monday to Sunday.

    Vinnies will also have a dedicated education space. This will be made available for workshops, repair activities and structured education.

    The community may consider different second-hand purchasing options while the Goodies Junction shops are closed, with other second-hand stores located throughout Canberra. Some of the choices include:

    • Vinnies stores
    • Anglicare stores
    • Salvos stores
    • Facebook buy/swap/sell and community groups
    • second-hand markets.

    Find out more about the ACT’s reusable facilities.

    Find out more about Goodies Junction.

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI: P10 Completes Acquisition of Qualitas Funds, a Leading European Lower-Middle Market Alternative Investment Solutions Provider

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DALLAS, April 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — P10, Inc. (NYSE: PX) (“P10” or the “Company”), a leading private markets solutions provider, today announced it has completed its previously announced acquisition of Qualitas Equity Funds SGEIC, S.A. (“Qualitas Funds”) for an initial purchase price of $63 million, with the potential for additional earnout consideration.

    Qualitas Funds is a Madrid-based private equity investing platform that provides fund-of-funds, direct co-investing and NAV financing opportunities in the European lower-middle market to more than 1,300 limited partners across the ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW), family office, and institutional channels. The firm has approximately $1 billion in fee-paying assets under management (FPAUM) and a strong expected growth trajectory. The firm was founded in 2015 by co-founders and co-managing partners, Eric Halverson and Sergio Garcia.

    “Today, P10 significantly expands our global presence through closing the acquisition of Qualitas Funds,” said Luke Sarsfield, P10 Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “Eric, Sergio, and the entire Qualitas Funds team have established a strong track record of performance that is complementary to P10’s platform, and we are excited to build upon this foundation as we expand into Europe. I look forward to integrating our client-centric cultures, as we work together to unlock access-constrained investment opportunities in the middle and lower-middle markets for our global client base.”

    “After working alongside P10’s strategy leaders for over a decade, we are pleased to officially become a part of this best-in-class firm,” said Halverson and García. “We look forward to collaborating with the P10 team and positively contributing to the platform’s international expansion. P10’s deep private markets expertise will accelerate our progress as we seek to launch additional strategies and vehicles that can provide our clients attractive exposure to the global middle and lower-middle markets.”

    About P10
    P10 is a leading multi-asset class private markets solutions provider in the alternative asset management industry. P10’s mission is to provide its investors differentiated access to a broad set of investment solutions that address their diverse investment needs within private markets. As of December 31, 2024, P10’s products have a global investor base of more than 3,800 investors across 50 states, 60 countries, and six continents, which includes some of the world’s largest pension funds, endowments, foundations, corporate pensions, and financial institutions. Visit www.p10alts.com.

    About Qualitas Funds
    Qualitas Funds is a Madrid-based private markets investing platform that provides fund-of-funds and direct co-investing opportunities in the lower-middle market to more than 1,300 limited partners across the UHNW, family office, and institutional channels. As of December 31, 2024, the firm has approximately $1 billion in fee-paying assets under management. Visit www.qualitasfunds.com.

    P10 Investor Contact:
    info@p10alts.com

    P10 Media Contact:
    Josh Clarkson
    Taylor Donahue
    jclarkson@prosek.com

    Forward-Looking Statements
    Some of the statements in this release may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “will,” “expect,” “believe,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan” and similar expressions are intended to identify these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements discuss management’s current expectations and projections relating to our financial position, results of operations, plans, objectives, future performance, and business. The inclusion of any forward-looking information in this release should not be regarded as a representation that the future plans, estimates, or expectations contemplated will be achieved. Forward-looking statements reflect management’s current plans, estimates, and expectations, and are inherently uncertain. All forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors that may cause actual results to be materially different; global and domestic market and business conditions; successful execution of business and growth strategies and regulatory factors relevant to our business; changes in our tax status; our ability to maintain our fee structure; our ability to attract and retain key employees; our ability to manage our obligations under our debt agreements; our ability to make acquisitions and successfully integrate the businesses we acquire; assumptions relating to our operations, financial results, financial condition, business prospects and growth strategy; and our ability to manage the effects of events outside of our control. The foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. For more information regarding these risks and uncertainties as well as additional risks that we face, you should refer to the “Risk Factors” included in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on February 28, 2025, and in our subsequent reports filed from time to time with the SEC. The forward-looking statements included in this release are made only as of the date hereof. We undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement as a result of new information or future events, except as otherwise required by law.

    Key Financial & Operating Metrics
    Fee-paying assets under management reflects the assets from which we earn management and advisory fees. Our vehicles typically earn management and advisory fees based on committed capital, and in certain cases, net invested capital, depending on the fee terms. Management and advisory fees based on committed capital are not affected by market appreciation or depreciation.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: VATICAN – A study day on subsidies for new particular Churches at the Pontifical Urbaniana University

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – Subsidies and financial autonomy of the Churches subject to the Dicastery for Evangelization will be the focus of a study day of shared reflections and insights to be held on Tuesday, April 8, at the Pontifical Urbaniana University, on the occasion of the IV Day of the “Velasio De Paolis” Chair, named after the Scalabrinian Cardinal Velasio De Paolis, authoritative canonist, who died in 2017.Based on Article 65 of the Apostolic Constitution Praedicate Evangelium and in light of the economic difficulties facing missionary activities, the focus of the morning will be to illustrate the financial support and subsidies provided to the Churches subject to the Dicastery for Evangelization.Archbishop Fortunatus Nwachukwu, Secretary of the Dicastery for Evangelization (Section for the First Evangelization and the New Particular Churches) and Vice-Grand Chancellor of the Pontifical Urbaniana University, will moderate and preside over the event, which begins at 9:00 a.m.Professor Vincenzo Buonomo, Grand Rector of the Pontifical Urbaniana University, will open the study day, while Professor Andrea D’Auria, Dean of the Faculty of Canon Law, will deliver the introduction. Father Tadeusz J. Nowak (OMI), Secretary General of the Pontifical Society for the Propagation of the Faith, will delve deeper into the morning’s theme by highlighting what it means to accompany local Churches on their path to financial autonomy, while Sister Roberta Tremarelli (AMSS), who works in the administration of the Pontifical Mission Societies, will address the importance of control bodies to monitor the use of resources and the quality of investments. The concluding lecture by Prof. Yawovi Jean Attila will outline the critical issues surrounding the financial autonomy of some Churches. The study day is aimed particularly at representatives of the administration of dioceses and religious institutes, administrators of church property and assets, ordinary bishops and superiors of religious communities, priests, religious, and students of canon law. The study day, which can also be attended online, is organized by the Faculty of Canon Law of the Pontifical University. (EG) (Agenzia Fides, 7/4/2025)

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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Five suspects to appear in court for kidnapping

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Monday, April 7, 2025

    Five suspects are due to appear in the Wolmaransstad Magistrate’s Court today on charges of kidnapping, extortion, aggravated robbery and assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm (GBH).

    The suspects, aged between 29 and 45, were arrested on Sunday by various South African Police Service (SAPS) national and provincial units.

    The members were activated following a kidnapping for ransom incident reported on Friday night in Wolmaransstad. Subsequent negotiations led the team to Welkom and Virginia in the Free State, where five suspects were arrested and a male kidnapping victim, aged 39, was rescued unharmed. 

    During the arrest, the team seized three cellphones, including the victim’s and a replica firearm. 

    The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the North West province, Major General Patrick Asaneng, has commended the SAPS members for their commitment, dedication and bravery in tracking, arresting and safely rescuing the victim of kidnapping linked to extortion. 

    “The team worked non-stop, day and night, before arresting the suspects at the hideout in the Free State. 

    “This arrest should send a strong message to heartless criminals that the police shall pursue them wherever they are and no resources will be spared in making sure that they are removed from society and jailed for their heinous crimes,” said Asaneng. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: KZN government calls for deeper collaboration with Black business

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has called for deeper collaboration between government and Black business.

    Ntuli made the call at the Diamond Jubilee Celebration of the National Federated Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NAFCOC) held at Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre on Friday.

    The event reflected on six decades of dedicated work toward the economic empowerment of African businesses and ongoing economic transformation.

    In his address, the Premier hailed the organisation’s historic and ongoing role in empowering Black entrepreneurs and advancing inclusive economic transformation across South Africa.

    “For over six decades, NAFCOC has been the enduring voice of Black business, even during the darkest days of apartheid. Today, we recognise the many men and women who, with NAFCOC’s support, have broken through barriers, and now play influential roles across both public and private sectors,” Ntuli said.

    The high profile event was attended by President Cyril Ramaphosa, His Majesty King Misuzulu kaZwelithini, national and provincial government leaders, business stakeholders, and NAFCOC executives.

    Ntuli described the NAFCOC Diamond Jubilee as “a celebration of resilience, vision and the power of unity”.

    He congratulated the organisation and called for continued joint action in building an inclusive and prosperous KwaZulu-Natal.

    The Premier used the occasion to reflect on NAFCOC’s legacy, while looking forward to a new era of economic partnership and shared growth.

    Ntuli outlined a bold five-year plan for the province, focused on rebuilding the economy; strengthening governance; advancing sustainable development; improving healthcare, education, and infrastructure; promoting community safety; mitigating climate change, and building a capable and ethical State.

    Ntuli invited NAFCOC to be a central partner in driving this agenda.

    “We cannot succeed without business playing its part. Our job as government is to clear bottlenecks and unlock opportunities, particularly in the township and rural economies, which are critical to achieving true economic freedom,” Ntuli said.

    Ntuli also announced a renewed push to attract investment and accelerate industrialisation through the Special Economic Zones in Richards Bay and at the Dube Trade Port.

    He said a revised Provincial Integrated Trade and Investment Strategy will guide this work, alongside stronger air connectivity and expanded tourism and export markets.

    The Premier also commended recent efforts by the South African Police Service, led by Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, to clamp down on organised crime.

    “A safe province is essential for a thriving economy,” he said, pledging an improved coordination between law enforcement and business stakeholders.

    The celebration also included a keynote memorial lecture in honour of NAFCOC founding leader Dr Sam Motsuenyane, delivered by African National Congress Treasurer General, Dr Gwen Ramokgopa. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Zikalala to address Construction Law Conference

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Monday, April 7, 2025

    Public Works and Infrastructure Deputy Minister Sihle Zikalala will on Wednesday give a keynote address at the Construction Law Conference to be held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre.

    Zikalala will focus on the topical challenges facing the construction industry such as contractual disputes, project delays and cost overruns, which continue to undermine confidence and efficiency sector. 

    The conference will be held from 8 – 9 April and will be attended by legal professionals, construction industry experts and policymakers to examine the latest trends, challenges and opportunities in construction law. 

    The conference will also deal with the evolution of construction law, including key global trends, as well as key matters affecting the construction industry in South Africa. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Arrests – Burglary – Alice Springs

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force has arrested six male youths in relation to a burglary and property damage incident that occurred in Alice Springs today.

    Around 9:45am, police received a report that an office building on Todd Street had been unlawfully entered. An employee had attended the building, which houses multiple businesses and organisations, and witnessed up to six male youths inside. The group subsequently fled out the rear of the property.

    Upon police arrival it was confirmed all offices and rooms within the building had been ransacked and extensive damaged had allegedly been caused by the offenders.

    A coordinated police response involving CCTV operators and Strike Force Viper identified the alleged offenders. Multiple foot chases throughout the Alice Springs CBD and into the Todd River involving Territory Safety Division (TSD) members, general duties officers, and Strike Force Viper members resulted in the arrest of six male youths.

    The offenders, aged 10, 12, 13, 13, 13 and 14, remain in police custody and investigations are ongoing.

    Police urge anyone who witnesses crime or antisocial behaviour to contact police on 131 444. In an emergency dial 000. Anonymous reports can also be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Arrest – Aggravated robbery – Darwin

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force has arrested a 23-year-old female in relation to an aggravated robbery that occurred in Darwin overnight.

    At 9:40pm, a 57-year-old female reported she had been assaulted and had her bag stolen by a female offender in Casuarina.  

    The offender and the victim had both been travelling on a public bus which stopped at the Casuarina Bus Exchange. The offender allegedly followed the victim off the bus and along Bradshaw Terrace, where she began throwing rocks and bottles at the victim, before stealing her bag.

    The victim called police during the assault and sought refuge inside a nearby restaurant on the corner of Bradshaw Terrace and Trower Road.  

    Strike Force Trident and general duties members responded, and the 23-year-old female offender was located and arrested nearby at 9:56pm.

    Some of the victim’s personal items remain outstanding and Strike Force Trident have carriage of the investigation.  

    Police urge anyone with information to contact police on 131 444. Please quote reference P25093589. Anonymous reports can also be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Arrests – Stolen motor vehicles – Darwin

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force has made multiple arrests in relation to multiple vehicles stolen overnight across the Top End.

    On Thursday 3 April, police received reports that a white Toyota Hilux had been stolen from Farrar. On Friday 4 April, police intel identified the Hilux had travelled to the Daly region and was returning to Darwin.

    Around 12:25am this morning, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre (JESCC) received reports of a black 4WD driving dangerously in Parap with up to six youths inside.

    Around 2:25am a yellow Toyota Stout utility vehicle was reported stolen from a residence in Jingili. It was recovered by police later in the evening after it was found abandoned in Palmerston.

    About an hour later, police received reports of suspicious vehicles driving in both the Roseberry and Woodroffe areas. Two vehicles were subsequently found abandoned and confirmed as stolen earlier in the evening from residences in Roseberry and Driver.

    Around 4:20am, the white Toyota Hilux was sighted by police on Batchelor Road travelling with the black 4WD and a silver Toyota.

    Police initiated a pursuit after the vehicles failed to stop, during which offenders allegedly threw items from the stolen vehicles at police. One police vehicle sustained a broken windscreen, and a police officer inside at the time later required medical treatment to remove glass from their eye.

    The pursuit continued onto Coach Road heading towards Adelaide River, where the silver Toyota was abandoned. It was later confirmed as stolen earlier from Bakewell.

    The white Toyota Hilux was also abandoned in Adelaide River, and two adults and one youth were arrested.

    Police continued pursuing the black 4WD until it ran out of fuel in Daly River. Six youths aged 12, 13, 14, 14, 15 and 15, and one adult were taken into custody by Strike Force Trident and Dog Operations Unit members, with Patrol Dog Cheeko being crucial in the apprehensions.

    An additional stolen motor vehicle was also located, believed to be related to an aggravated robbery that occurred in early March. A 13-year-old female and an adult male were taken into custody in relation to this incident.

    At this stage, all known stolen motor vehicles have been recovered by police. Investigations remain ongoing and charges are expected to follow.

    Detective Senior Sergeant Darren Burns said, “This was an incredibly frustrating night for police.

    “The actions of the offenders involved in this crime series were disgraceful, and it is nothing other than pure luck that no one was seriously hurt, or worse.

    “I commend the excellent work by all police involved in bringing the offenders into custody, ensuring no further harm to the community could occur.”

    Police continue to urge anyone who witnesses crime or antisocial behaviour to contact police on 131 444. In an emergency dial 000. Anonymous reports can also be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Call for information – Crime series – Lajamanu

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force is calling for information in relation to a crime series that occurred in Lajamanu overnight.

    Around 9:10pm yesterday evening, police received reports of multiple armed youths throwing rocks and hitting buildings with bars at a worker’s camp in Lajamanu.

    Across the next few hours, the youths returned multiple times, allegedly unlawfully entering compound buildings and causing damage, each time fleeing prior to police arrival.

    Around 5am this morning, police were notified that several male youths had entered the yard of the clinic and stolen an ambulance, which they used to ram through the compound gates and flee the area. The clinic had also allegedly been burgled prior to the ambulance being stolen.

    It is alleged there were several youths in the ambulance when it left Lajamanu, and additional youths were subsequently picked up as it travelled through Kalkarindji.

    The stolen ambulance travelled across the Western Australian border, where it allegedly rammed two WA Police vehicles in Halls Creek. Fortunately, no WA Police member was injured, but the police vehicles did sustain damage.

    The ambulance was subsequently located abandoned in Halls Creek, and five youths are currently in WA Police custody.

    Investigations remain ongoing and police urge anyone with information to contact police on 131 444 or attend your local police station. Anonymous reports can also be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Call for information – Stolen motor vehicle – Alice Springs

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force is calling for information in relation to a vehicle that was stolen in Alice Springs overnight.

    Around 10:35pm, police were notified that a grey Nissan X-Trail had been stolen from the Alice Springs Hospital. An unknown offender allegedly entered the X-Trail while it was parked at the hospital and drove away, picking up two additional unknown offenders nearby before leaving the area.

    It was subsequently sighted driving on Larapinta Drive and later south of The Gap.

    Members from Strike Force Viper, the Tactical Response Group (TRG), the Dog Operations Unit (DOU) and general duties officers responded. Police successfully deployed tyre deflation devices on the stolen motor vehicle as it travelled north on Telegraph Terrace.

    The vehicle continued north along the Stuart Highway and remains outstanding.

    The unknown offenders also remain outstanding, and investigations are ongoing.

    Police urge anyone with information to contact police on 131 444. Please quote reference P25092499. Anonymous reports can also be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Palna Scheme under Mission Shakti

    Source: Government of India

    Palna Scheme under Mission Shakti

    A Journey of Women Empowerment and Child Care

    Posted On: 07 APR 2025 4:13PM by PIB Delhi

    ­­­­Introduction

    Government’s sustained initiatives on education, skilling and employment of women have resulted in increased opportunities for their employment, and more and more women are now in gainful employment, working within or outside their homes. Past few decades have shown a rapid increase in nuclear families. Thus, the children of such working women, who were earlier getting support from joint families while they were at work, are now in need of day care services which have to provide quality care and protection for the children. Lack of proper day-care services is, often, a deterrent for women to go out and work. To address these difficulties faced by the working mothers in giving due child care and protection to their children, day-care crèche facilities are being provided through Palna Scheme. Crèche services formalise the child care responsibilities hitherto considered as part of domestic work. Formalization of care work supports the “decent work campaign” to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal 8 – Decent work and economic growth. This will also enable more mothers, who will be free from unpaid child-care responsibilities, to take up gainful employment.

    In 2022, erstwhile National Creche Scheme was reorganized and renamed as Palna Scheme under the sub scheme ‘Samarthya’ of ‘Mission Shakti’.  Palna is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme ensuring the participation of State/ UT government to ensure better day-to-day monitoring and proper implementation of scheme, and is implemented with a funding ratio of 60:40 between Centre and State Governments and UTs with legislature except North East & Special Category States where ratio is 90:10. For UTs without legislature, 100% funding is provided by the central government.

    Region

    Centre’s Share

    State/UT Share

    General States

    60%

    40%

    North-Eastern and Special Category States

    90%

    10%

    UTs with Legislature

    60%

    40%

    UTs without Legislature

    100%

    0%

     

    Objectives of the Palna Scheme

    The objective of the Palna scheme is to provide quality crèche facility in safe and secure environment for children (from ages 6 months – 6 years), nutritional support, health and cognitive development of children, growth monitoring & immunization. Crèche facilities under Palna are provided to all mothers, irrespective of their employment status.

    Apart from the aforementioned primary objective, another objective of the component would involve monitoring compliance of the stipulations laid down in Section 11A of the Maternity Benefit Act regarding setting up of crèche facilities by the establishments. For this purpose, the States/UTs would explore the possibility of hosting an application/portal in convergence with the Labour & Employment Departments of their respective States/UTs for facilitating establishments to register on the portal and furnish details in respect of the crèches set up in accordance with the Act.

    Integrated Package of Services under Palna

    The Palna component under the Mission Shakti scheme aims to deliver a comprehensive set of services to children aged 6 months to 6 years. These services are designed to support early childhood care, development, and nutrition in convergence with Mission Poshan 2.0.

    Key services include:

    • Day care facilities, including sleeping arrangements
    • Early stimulation activities for children below 3 years
    • Pre-school education for children aged 3 to 6 years
    • Supplementary nutrition, sourced locally
    • Growth monitoring, health check-ups, and immunization support

     

    As part of enhancing access to childcare facilities, the Ministry of Labour & Employment has amended the Maternity Benefit Act to mandate all establishments with 50 or more employees to provide a crèche facility.

    Anganwadi cum Crèche (AWCC)

    There are two types of Crèches under Palna: Standalone Crèches and Anganwadi-cum-Crèches (AWCCs). As per Mission Shakti guidelines, for Standalone Creches, there is a provision of one Creche Worker and one Creche Helper. Similarly, for AWCCs, in addition to the already existing Anganwadi Worker and Anganwadi Helper, a provision for a Creche Helper and a Creche Worker has been made in Mission Shakti Guidelines. Anganwadi centres are the world’s largest childcare institutions dedicated to providing essential care and support to children ensuring delivery of care facilities till the last mile. Anganwadi cum Crèche initiative aims to increase ‘women work force participation’ in the economy. The Ministry of Women and Child Development is targeting to establish 17,000 new Anganwadi cum creches under the Palna Scheme in 2024-25. As of March 2025, 11,395 AWCCs across 34 States/UTs have been approved, as per proposals received from various States and UTs.

    Crèche Workers under supervision of Anganwadi worker do proper care and safety of children attending the Creche:

    • Provide proper arrangements for sleep and rest of children.
    • Ensure personal hygiene and Creche helper keep personal hygiene of every child and keep washrooms clean, help for toilet training.
    • Inculcate proper toilet habits and toilet training.
    • Facilitate regular health check-ups and referrals in liaison with Asha/AWWs/Primary Health Centre (PHC)/AWC.
    • Ensure that the food is hygienically and age appropriately cooked, stored/preserved and fed to the children at appropriate intervals.
    • Follow all laid out safety procedures for taking/handing over the child and w.r.t. quality of toys and other materials given to the children.

    The Anganwadi Cum creche scheme shall be implemented with the intra-ministerial convergence specially with Integrated Child Development Services and Poshan. It complies with legislations under Labour Laws as well as Maternity Benefits Act. As of February 2025, 1,761 AWCCs are operational with 28,783 current beneficiaries.  Besides this, 1,284 Standalone Creches are also operational across the country with 23,368 current beneficiaries.

     

    Creche Operation under Palna Scheme

    The Mission Shakti Guidelines state that the crèche timings need to be flexible depending on the local requirements. Crèches shall be open for 26 days in a month and for seven and half (7.5) hours per day as per the work schedule of majority of the mothers in the area. The Standard Operating Procedures for AWCCs also state that the Creche timings may be decided by State/ UT governments as per local need, however, it has to be ensured that timing should facilitate working mothers.

    The Creche Workers and Creche Helpers under Palna are honorary workers. There is no provision of salary or wages to the Creche Workers or Creche Helpers. However, the scheme guidelines have provision for grant of honorarium to Creche Workers and Creche Helpers. The amount of honorarium is governed through the type of Creche, and is detailed as below:

     

    Type of Creche

    Creche Worker

    Creche Helper

    Standalone Creche

    Rs. 6,500

    Rs. 3,250

    AWCC

    Rs. 5,500

    Rs. 3,000

     

    Palna as a Centrally Sponsored Scheme is implemented through the respective State/ UT Government. The respective States/ UTs may provide additional amount of honorarium to Creche Worker/ Helpers, as a Top-Up from their own funds. There is no bar or restriction from the Central Government about this.

     

    The funds allocated and released under Palna scheme since its introduction, are detailed as under:

                            (Amount in Crores)

    Financial Year

    2022-23

    2023-24

    2024-25

    Amount Allocated

    35

    85

    150.11

    Amount Released

    4.68

    64.15

    43.66*

                                                                                                                                         *Data as on December 19, 2024

     

    To maintain quality care and individualized attention, each crèche is ideally limited to a maximum of 25 children. To ensure ease of access and continued breastfeeding for infants, crèches must be situated close to either the:

    • Residential areas of the children
    • Workplaces of the mothers (preferably within 0.5–1 km walking distance)

    This proximity supports parental engagement and provides convenience in emergencies or regular pick-up and drop-off.

    Conclusion

     

    By providing a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate environment for children aged 6 months to 6 years, the Palna scheme ensures that children receive holistic care, nutrition, education, and health services. With convergence across key ministries and flexibility to adapt to local needs, Palna strengthens the foundation for a healthier, more inclusive, and gender-sensitive society.

    References

    https://wcdhry.gov.in/gallery/haryana-creche/

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2100650

    https://missionshakti.wcd.gov.in/statisticsPalna

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1989473

    https://wcd.delhi.gov.in/sites/default/files/WCD/universal-tab/palna_scheme_under_mission_shakti.pdf

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetailm.aspx?PRID=2115235

    https://sansad.in/getFile/loksabhaquestions/annex/183/AU4233_BcWNDn.pdf?source=pqals

    https://sansad.in/getFile/loksabhaquestions/annex/184/AU3455_1Tt0mw.pdf?source=pqals

    https://static.pib.gov.in/WriteReadData/specificdocs/documents/2024/mar/doc202435319501.pdf

    https://missionshakti.wcd.gov.in/public/documents/whatsnew/Approved_AWCC_Sop.pdf

    https://wcd.delhi.gov.in/sites/default/files/WCD/universal-tab/palna_scheme_under_mission_shakti.pdf

    ****

    Santosh Kumar | Sarla Meena | Rishita Aggarwal

    (Release ID: 2119769) Visitor Counter : 62

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Chinese Culture Festival 2025 to be held June to September to unveil millennia-old Chinese culture through fusion of art and literature (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Chinese Culture Festival 2025 to be held June to September to unveil millennia-old Chinese culture through fusion of art and literature  
    The CCF is now in its second edition. The opening programme, “Dongpo: Life in Poems” by the China Oriental Performing Arts Group, is directed by internationally acclaimed choreographer and visual artist Shen Wei. The production is an innovative work that integrates traditional Chinese poetic culture with contemporary artistic language and arts appreciation concepts. It blends modern dance with various traditional Chinese culture elements, such as poetry writing, traditional Chinese painting, calligraphy, seal engraving and guqin, which delicately deconstructs the thoughts and emotions in the poetic works by Su Dongpo, a literary master in the Song dynasty, thereby initiating an artistic dialogue spanning thousands of years. The programme is sponsored by the Agricultural Bank of China Limited Hong Kong Branch.
     
    As a core part of the CCF, this year’s Chinese Opera Festival (COF) features six quality programmes covering Peking opera, Yuediao opera, Qinqiang opera, Yue opera, Cantonese opera and Kunqu opera. The COF will start off with the China National Peking Opera Company’s new historical Peking opera, “Cession for Consolidation of the Song Regime”. Set during the late Five Dynasties and Ten-Kingdoms period, it tells the story of Qian Chu, the King of Wuyue, honouring the rightful rule of the Song reign by voluntarily submitting his territory. The production conveys the profound themes of valuing people, pursuing peace and stability, and strengthening the communal spirit of Chinese national identity. Furthermore, there will be fantastic shows from a number of renowned art groups and artists, including the Henan Provincial Yue Diao Art Protection and Inheritance Center, the Xi’an Performing Arts Group’s Youth Experimental Troupe of Qinqiang Opera, the Xiaobaihua Yue Opera Troupe of Shaoxing and the Zhejiang Jingkun Art Center (Kun Opera Troupe). The performances will feature winners of the China Theatre Plum Blossom Award such as renowned Peking opera artists Yu Kuizhi and Li Shengsu, Yuediao opera inheritor Shen Xiaomei, Qinqiang artists Dou Fengqin, Tan Jianxun, Qu Qiaozhe, Wang Xincang, Qi Aiyun and Zhang Tao, as well as acclaimed Yue opera performers Wu Fenghua, Wu Suying and Chen Fei.
     
    The COF this year also features classic plays inspired by the “Romance of Three Kingdoms”, one of the four great classic novels of Chinese literature. With virtuoso Yuen Siu-fai as artistic director, the Cantonese opera plays “Zhou Yu Thrice Humiliated” and “The Battle at Changbanpo” bring together some of the finest local Cantonese opera talent across three generations to perform. The Peking opera classic “A Meeting of Heroes, Invoking the East Wind and The Huarong Pass”, the Yuediao epic historical drama “Jiang Wei Surrenders” and Qinqiang classic piece “Returning to Jingzhou” will also be staged, bringing opera fans back to the Three Kingdoms era of fierce rivalry. The COF will also present an array of free extension activities such as meet-the-artists sessions, masterclasses, talks, a backstage tour, a demonstration performance and an exhibition so that interested parties can gain a deeper understanding of Chinese opera culture.
     
    More on literary and art, “the City under the Moon – Dance Drama ‘Azure After the Rain’” by the Shanghai Dance Theatre highlights the resilient spirit and sentiments of the famous Song dynasty poetess, Li Qingzhao, and her contributions to the inheritance of Chinese literary classics from a contemporary perspective. By blending music, dance and stage art, the dance drama creates the aesthetics of the Song dynasty and its life of the literati, and resonates with today’s audiences through traditional Chinese culture. The original Chinese dance drama, “A Dream of Red Mansions”, by the Jiangsu Centre for the Performing Arts is another production that upholds principles and innovation. Its plot centres around the love triangle between Jia Baoyu, Lin Daiyu and Xue Baochai, and restructures the storylines from the perspective of the 12 Beauties of Jinling, paying homage to fine traditional Chinese culture while rekindling the national classic with views from the young generation. The programme is jointly presented by the LCSD and the Bauhinia Culture Group. These two programmes are also programmes of the “Chinese Performing Arts Hong Kong Season” Series.
     
    China was the first country in the world to grow and produce tea. In 2022, “traditional Chinese tea-making techniques and related customs” was inscribed onto the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This year’s CCF features a “Tea Culture” series, with the “Tan Dun WE-Festival”, curated by Hong Kong’s Ambassador for Cultural Promotion, internationally renowned composer and conductor, Tan Dun, as one of the pre-festival programmes. In addition to the Tan Dun | “Tea: A Mirror of Soul” by the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra, there are also performances of dialogues between traditional and modern percussion, as well as ancient Dunhuang music and dances, which include “Xiangxi Tujia Women’s Daliuzi & Hong Kong Women’s Percussion Ensemble” (the world premiere of “TEA-liuzi”) and “Lost Tang Dynasty Music and Dance Manuscripts: ‘The Vanishing Mogao Caves’”. These performances enable music lovers to appreciate the charm of tea, while telling the good story of China’s intangible cultural heritage in the new era. The “Tea Culture” series also includes other stage performance, exhibitions, talks and demonstrations.
     
    The City in Focus of this year’s CCF is Xi’an, a capital of 13 ancient dynasties with profound cultural heritage. It has preserved a large number of precious historical and cultural relics from the Qin, Han, Tang and other dynasties. The CCF brings to Hong Kong a representative opera genre of the region, Qinqiang, with the Xi’an Performing Arts Group’s Youth Experimental Troupe of Qinqiang Opera presenting the classic piece “Zhou Ren on the Way Home”, which conveys the spirit of loyalty and righteousness with its wide vocal range and resounding tones. Other programmes include “The Hong Kong Jockey Club Series: The Great Unity – Civilisation of the Qin and Han Dynasties in Shaanxi Province” exhibition jointly organised by the Hong Kong Museum of History and the Shaanxi Cultural Heritage Promotion Center, showcasing invaluable archaeological relics; the Acrobatic Ballet “Swan Lake” by the Xi’an Acrobatic Troupe jointly presented by the LCSD and the Bauhinia Culture Group; and “Xi’an Guyue” music exhibitions by the Music Office of the LCSD, which all reveal Xi’an’s culture to the audience and foster cultural exchange.
     
    This year’s CCF continues to collaborate with the China Federation of Literary and Art Circles Hong Kong Member Association to organise a number of stage performances, including the stage play in Cantonese “Tea-horse Road‧Ballad of the Fallen Dragon” under the “Tea Culture” series; “Ancient Styles‧Modern Chants Classical Literature x Contemporary Dance”; “Melodies of Chinese Poetry” concert; “Taisheng and Huayin Lao Qiang: Big Uncle, Second Uncle are All His Uncles” concert, and “Classics Revisited – Highlights of Peking Opera and Kunqu”. All these demonstrate the power of unity of the local cultural sector, as well as their solid competence and boundless creativity in promoting Chinese culture. The “Legacy and Vision: Conversations with Chinese Cultural Masters” lecture series also returns, featuring top experts from various culture and artistic fields to share their insights. Meanwhile, outstanding local works recognised by the China National Arts Fund will be staged in the CCF, such as the Cantonese Music Assembly’s “Cantonese Rhyme, Poetic Homeland – Sentiment of Chinese Music in the Greater Bay Area by Ricky Yeung Wai-kit & Sha Jingshan” recital, Hong Kong Gaudeamus Dunhuang Ensemble’s Museum Series: “The Sounds from Cultural Relics” and Miranda Chin Dance Company’s “Hé The Rite of Spring”.
     
    The CCF promotes high-quality provincial and local stage productions. Among them is the “Ancient Chinese Puppetry with Timeless Charm” by the Quanzhou Marionette Show Inheritance and Protection Center from Fujian Province, in which performers move delicate puppets around by controlling strings in their skilful hands to perform classic short plays. In the “Concert by Shanghai Xuhui Chiangqiao Jiangnan Silk and Bamboo Ensemble”, the representative inheritors of Jiangnan silk and bamboo music from Shanghai, along with talented young Shanghainese musicians, will perform classical string and wind pieces. Other programmes include the opening programme of the International Arts Carnival 2025 – Kungfu Drama “Soul of Shaolin” by the Henan Provincial Shaolin Wushu Center; the “Innovative Music-making Journey to China: MO x e-Orch” concert by the Music Office; the “Silk Road Resonance” by the Hong Kong Music Lover Chinese Orchestra and Xinjiang Art Theater Traditional Orchestra Ensemble; the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra’s 49th Orchestral Season Opening Concert “Silken Notes of the Pipa”; the Hong Kong Dance Company’s 2025/26 Dance Season Opening Programme Grand Dance Poem “A Dance of Celestial Rhythms”, and more.
     
    Apart from stage performances, the CCF will also present a number of film programmes. “Tracing Qin and Han Through Cinema” features eight representative local works set in the Qin and Han dynasties, including “The Great Conqueror’s Concubine” (1994) (4K Digitised Version), which was directed by Stephen Shin, as the opening film, while “Cantonese Opera Films: The Legend of Guan Gong” features five selected Cantonese opera films, including the rarely screened colour film “General Kwan Escorts His Sisters-in-Law on a Thousand Mile Journey” (1957). The “Chinese Opera Film Shows” of the COF will present a series of “Three Kingdoms” themed Chinese opera films from the 1950s to 1980s. The Hong Kong premiere of director Yonfan’s latest documentary, “Crossing Years” (2024) will be held, capturing renowned Chinese artist Huang Yongyu’s conversation with Yon about his life before Chinese New Year’s Eve in 2012.
     
    For the dates and venues of the above-mentioned programmes, please see the Annex. Tickets will be available at URBTIX (www.urbtix.hk 
         To offer the public with more opportunities to enjoy distinctive Chinese cultural programmes, in addition to the above-mentioned performing arts events, this year’s CCF will continue to launch various free exhibitions and activities. They include the “Mystery of Chinese Writing” Roving Exhibition, “Genesis and Spirit – Intangible Cultural Heritage Exhibition on Jiangxi’s Ganzhou “Hakka” Culture” (tentative title), “Amazing Oracle Bone Script” Exhibition, “The Power of Chinese Characters” Exhibition, “Tea Culture” series’ “The History and Art of Tea” Exhibition, and more. The LCSD will hold the “Encountering Chinese Culture” Carnival presenting stage performances at the Sha Tin Town Hall and the New Town Plaza on June 22 (Sunday), as well as the library-on-wheels, intangible cultural heritage booths and performances, etc. In addition to the spectacular lantern displays of different themes, the Mid-Autumn Lantern Carnival 2025 to be held in September and October will also arrange a wide range of activities. Details of the above activities will be announced later.
     
    To enhance participation of students in the CCF, this year’s “Chinese Culture for All: A Special Performance Series” will include activities tailor-made for students in different art forms, such as dance, Chinese opera, stage plays, music, multi-arts and film screenings, etc, together with the “Chinese Opera En Route to Campus” to encourage students’ participation and enhance their interest in Chinese culture.
     
    Renowned Hong Kong composer Chris Babida is commissioned to compose original theme music for the CCF. The composition features dizi and erhu as the main instruments accompanying Chinese percussion, and is infused with a mix of Western and pop music styles, giving a contemporary flavour to the traditional Chinese music. The work exemplifies the diversity of Hong Kong, a melting pot where East meets West. The theme music will be featured as the background music for the trailer of the CCF, which can be viewed on the CCF website.
     
    The CCF, presented by the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau and organised by the Chinese Culture Promotion Office under the LCSD, aims to promote Chinese culture and enhance the public’s national identity and cultural confidence. It also aims to attract top-notch artists and arts groups from both the Mainland and other parts of the world for exchanges in Chinese arts and culture. For more information about programmes and activities of the CCF 2025, please visit the above-mentioned CCF website.
    Issued at HKT 18:45

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Wesdome Gold Mines to Acquire Angus Gold; Quadruples the Eagle River Land Package

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    All amounts are expressed in Canadian dollars unless otherwise indicated

    TORONTO, April 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Wesdome Gold Mines Ltd. (TSX: WDO, OTCQX: WDOFF) (“Wesdome” or the “Company”) and Angus Gold Inc. (TSX-V: GUS, OTC: ANGVF) (“Angus”) are pleased to jointly announce that they have entered into a definitive arrangement agreement (the “Agreement”) whereby Wesdome will acquire all of the issued and outstanding common shares of Angus pursuant to a plan of arrangement (the “Arrangement”).

    Under the terms of the Agreement, each of the issued and outstanding common shares of Angus that Wesdome does not currently own will be exchanged for $0.62 cash plus 0.0096 of a Wesdome share (the “Offer”), representing an aggregate value of $0.77 per Angus common share, based on the closing price of Wesdome’s common shares on the Toronto Stock Exchange on April 4, 2025, the last trading day prior to announcement of the Offer. The Offer represents a premium of 59% to Angus’ 20-day volume-weighted average price ending April 4, 2025. Wesdome currently owns 6.3 million common shares of Angus and 3.15 million common share purchase warrants, or approximately 10.4% of Angus’ basic common shares outstanding and 14.9% on a partially diluted basis. The enterprise value to Wesdome, net of Angus’s cash, is approximately $40 million.

    Strategic Rationale for Wesdome

    • Transforms Eagle River into a district-scale opportunity (Figure 1)
      Quadruples Wesdome’s land position at Eagle River, consolidating two adjacent properties into one ~400 km2 contiguous strategic land package situated on a highly prospective greenstone belt. The expanded footprint hosts multiple targets and mineralization styles.
    • Bolsters Eagle River’s greenfield exploration pipeline
      Consolidates district-scale exploration potential across at least three mineralized trends, including the Eagle River Splay and Cameron Lake banded iron formation (“BIF”). Recent intercepts — 48.7 g/t Au over 1.5m at the Splay and 47.4m at 1.1 g/t Au (incl. 11.7m at 2.2 g/t) at BIF — underscore the potential for discovering new mineralized zones and resource delineation.
    • Underscores long-term commitment to Eagle River
      Opportunity to leverage Wesdome’s existing balance sheet, infrastructure and relationships with stakeholder and Indigenous groups to accelerate exploration and development, while continuing to focus on the Company’s asset base located in Ontario and Québec – two of the world’s premier mining jurisdictions.

    Strategic Rationale for Angus Shareholders

    • Attractive premium
      The Offer represents a significant premium and is a validation of the efforts of the Angus team over the past 5 years. In addition, the cash component represents 80% of the Offer price and reflects a strong immediate return for Angus shareholders.
    • Exposure to a growing value-driven Canadian gold producer
      Wesdome’s portfolio of high-quality producing gold assets in Ontario and Québec further reinforces the strategic rationale of this transaction. Shareholders will receive a portion of the consideration in common shares of Wesdome, a proven Canadian gold producer with a track record of value creation.

    Anthea Bath, President and CEO of Wesdome, commented, “This is a highly logical and strategic tuck-in transaction that brings together a contiguous land package between the Eagle River mine and mill, enhancing our ability to unlock value through the drill bit. It reinforces our belief in the geological potential of the Mishibishu Lake greenstone belt, aligns with our focus on regional consolidation, and positions us to deliver sustainable, long-term growth supported by our strong balance sheet and existing infrastructure.

    “Since 2020, Angus has invested over $20 million into exploration across the Golden Sky project, generating a pipeline of targets and confirming the geological continuity with Eagle River. Wesdome intends to continue this momentum, focusing on high-priority zones such as the Cameron Lake BIF and Eagle River Splay in 2025. Wesdome remains deeply confident in the prospectivity of the Eagle River camp and the broader potential of our ongoing fill-the-mill strategy. This transaction represents a strategic investment in that vision and underscores our long-term commitment to unlocking value at Eagle River.

    “Breanne and her team have done excellent work over the last several years, which has resulted in multiple discoveries and laid the groundwork for further exploration. We believe that now is the right time for Wesdome to assume ownership and build upon the work done by the Angus team. With Wesdome’s balance sheet and free cash flow profile, we can add significant value to the property and eventually bring economic deposits into production quickly given the proximity to our existing infrastructure.”

    Breanne Beh, President and CEO of Angus, commented, “On behalf of the Board of Directors of Angus Gold, we are excited to have reached an agreement with Wesdome. This transaction is a testament to the dedication and diligent work of the Angus team, particularly our exploration team, and we sincerely thank everyone for their excellent work. Since 2020, through a series of property acquisitions, we consolidated a district-scale land package, completed over 40,000 metres of drilling, and made significant gold discoveries. These accomplishments would not have been possible without the support of our committed stakeholders. We believe this transaction delivers immediate value to our shareholders and provides the opportunity to benefit from a well-established and well-financed gold producer.”

    Summary of the Arrangement

    The Arrangement will be implemented by way of a court-approved plan of arrangement pursuant to the Business Corporations Act (Ontario) and will require the approval of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice (Commercial List) and the approval of at least two-thirds of the votes cast by Angus shareholders as well as the approval of a simple majority of disinterested shareholders at a special meeting of Angus shareholders, which is expected to be held in June 2025.

    In addition to the aforementioned approvals, completion of the Arrangement is subject to other customary conditions and stock exchange approvals. The Arrangement is expected to close in the second quarter of 2025.

    The directors, senior officers and advisors of Angus, holding in aggregate 28% of the issued and outstanding common shares of Angus, have entered into voting support agreements with Wesdome, pursuant to which they have agreed to vote their shares in favour of the transaction, where permitted by applicable regulations.

    New Gold Inc. has agreed to a lock-up agreement with Wesdome to tender its 4.85 million shares, or 8% of the outstanding common shares on a basic basis. Together with common shares already owned or held by Wesdome, the Company has now entered into lock-up agreements with Angus shareholders owning an aggregate 47% of the outstanding common shares of Angus on a basic basis, including each of the directors and officers of Angus.

    The Agreement provides for customary deal protection provisions, including non-solicitation covenants on the part of Angus and a right in favour of Wesdome to match any unsolicited superior proposal. In the event that the Agreement is terminated in certain circumstances, Angus has agreed to pay Wesdome a termination fee of $2.3 million.

    Board Approval and Recommendation

    The special committee of independent directors of Angus (the “Angus Special Committee”) has received an opinion from Evans & Evans, Inc. that, based upon and subject to the limitations, assumptions and qualifications of and other matters considered in connection with the preparation of such opinion, the Offer is fair, from a financial point of view, to the Angus shareholders (other than Wesdome) (the “Fairness Opinion”).

    Following its review and in consideration of, amongst other things, the Fairness Opinion, the Special Committee has unanimously recommended that the board of directors of Angus approve the Arrangement. The Angus board, following the receipt and review of recommendations from the Special Committee, and after receiving legal and financial advice, has unanimously approved the Agreement and the Arrangement and has determined that the Arrangement is fair to shareholders of Angus (other than Wesdome) and is in the best interests of Angus, and unanimously recommends to shareholders that they vote in favour of the Arrangement.

    The Agreement has also been unanimously approved by the board of directors of Wesdome.

    Warrants and Options

    Pursuant to the Arrangement, each Angus stock option (each, a “Stock Option”) outstanding immediately prior to the effective time of the Arrangement (the “Effective Time”) shall automatically vest and be immediately cancelled in exchange for a cash payment equal to the excess, if any, of: (i) the product of the number of Angus common shares underlying such Angus Options and $0.77; over (ii) the applicable aggregate exercise price of such Angus Options. All outstanding restricted share units outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time shall automatically vest and be immediately cancelled in exchange for a cash payment equal to $0.77. All Angus warrants outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time will be immediately cancelled in exchange for a cash payment equal to the in-the-money value of such warrant.

    Advisors and Counsel

    Wesdome has engaged Stikeman Elliott LLP as its legal advisor in connection with the transaction.

    Peterson McVicar LLP is acting as legal advisor to Angus and Mason Law LLP is acting as legal advisor to the Special Committee in connection with the transaction. Evans & Evans, Inc. has been retained to deliver a fairness opinion to the Angus Special Committee.

    About Wesdome Gold Mines

    Wesdome is a Canadian-focused gold producer with two high-grade underground assets, Eagle River in Northern Ontario and Kiena in Val-d’or, Québec. The Company’s primary goal is to responsibly leverage its operating platform and high-quality brownfield and greenfield exploration pipeline to build a growing value-driven gold producer.

    About Angus Gold

    Angus is a Canadian mineral exploration company focused on the acquisition, exploration, and development of highly prospective gold properties. The Company’s flagship project, which is the Golden Sky Project near Wawa, Ontario, is situated immediately adjacent to Wesdome’s Eagle River mine.

    Contacts for Wesdome  
       
    Raj Gill  Trish Moran
    SVP, Corporate Development & Investor Relations VP, Investor Relations
    Phone: +1.416.360.3743 Phone: +1.416.564.4290
    E-Mail: invest@wesdome.com E-mail: trish.moran@wesdome.com
       
    Contacts for Angus  
       
    Breanne Beh Lindsay Dunlop
    President and CEO VP, Investor Relations
    Phone: +1.807.356.6330 Phone: +1.647.259.1790
    Email: bbeh@angusgold.com Email: info@angusgold.com


    Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release contains “forward-looking information” which may include, but is not limited to, statements with respect to the future financial and operating performance of the Company and its projects. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects”, “is expected”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “intends”, “anticipates”, or “believes” or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases, or state that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements contained herein are made as of the date of this press release and the Company disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements.

    Forward-looking statements or information contained in this press release include, but are not limited to, statements or information with respect to: (i) expectations regarding whether the proposed Arrangement will be consummated, including whether conditions to the consummation of the Arrangement will be satisfied, or the timing for completing the Transaction, (ii) expectations for the effects of the Arrangement or the ability of the combined company to successfully achieve business objectives, including integrating the companies or the effects of unexpected costs, liabilities or delays, (iii) the potential benefits and synergies of the Arrangement, and (iv) expectations for other economic, business, and/or competitive factors.

    Furthermore, should one or more of the risks, uncertainties or other factors materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements or information. These risks, uncertainties and other factors including those risk factors discussed in the sections titled “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Information” and “Risks and Uncertainties” in the Company’s most recent Annual Information Form. Readers are urged to carefully review the detailed risk discussion in our most recent Annual Information Form which is available on SEDAR+ and on the Company’s website.

    Figure 1 – Wesdome and Angus Property Map

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f6dab7f8-132c-4c17-b3c1-507968504e44

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Verizon Business debuts industry-defining broadcast private 5G and AI solution at NAB 2025

    Source: Verizon

    Headline: Verizon Business debuts industry-defining broadcast private 5G and AI solution at NAB 2025

    What you need to know:

    • Verizon Business is helping broadcasters solve many of their challenges and will showcase a first-of-its-kind mobile Private 5G Network framework featuring a portable, environmentally controlled setup built on NVIDIA and brought to life with key partners including FanDuel TV, Haivision, and Ericsson
    • Verizon Business experts will be featured on various panels throughout the show, discussing the future of live content and remote production

    LAS VEGAS, NV – Broadcasters face the challenge of managing dozens of camera feeds during a live event, they’re constantly struggling with location-based connectivity, all while having the pressure of capturing every critical moment flawlessly. Until now. At the 2025 National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Show, Verizon Business (Booth W#2530) is showcasing a range of innovative solutions including a first-of-its-kind portable Private 5G Network framework designed to reduce many of these live-broadcasting pain points for broadcasters. 

    This mobile environmentally controlled setup is built on NVIDIA accelerated computing, including NVIDIA AI Enterprise and NVIDIA Holoscan for Media, which demonstrate intelligent video prioritization for live production by using AI to manage numerous camera feeds and highlight key moments. This allows directors to focus on the most compelling content and create a more dynamic and engaging live production. The combined mobile framework can be deployed to leverage different types of spectrum, including C-band, CBRS, and millimeter wave. The Verizon mobile framework comes to life with key partners including FanDuel TV, Haivision, and Ericsson.

    “Live content production and experiential events are evolving rapidly, demanding innovative approaches to content creation, distribution, and fan engagement,” said Daniel Lawson, SVP, Global Solutions, Verizon Business. “We are demonstrating at NAB 2025 how our Private 5G Network, coupled with Enterprise AI solutions, enables more efficient, cost-effective broadcast workflows. Our first-of-its-kind mobile framework is a testament to our commitment to innovation and our dedication to providing cutting-edge solutions to meet the evolving demands of the industry.”

    Visit Verizon Business at Booth #W2530 – thought leadership sessions

    Verizon Business (Booth #W2530) experts will have a strong presence at the NAB show, leading and participating in several sessions, including:

    Saturday, April 5, 12 p.m. PT, at the NAB Main Stage, Verizon’s Daniel Lawson, SVP, Global Solutions will deliver the Opening Remarks for the 2025 Devoncroft Executive Summit

    Monday, April 7, 12 p.m. PT, at W222-W223, ErinRose Widner, Global Head of Business Strategy, Media & Entertainment, Verizon Business will lead a panel: AI on Location: Deploying Private Networks and Edge Compute for Next Gen Production Workflows’

    Monday, April 7, 2 p.m. PT, at W1768 Theater 1, Tim Stevens, Global Leader of Strategic Innovation, Verizon Business will discuss ‘Unplugging Sports: The Private Wireless Revolution’

    These sessions, along with many others, will delve into the latest trends in live media, AI and automation, and how technology is being leveraged to enhance engagement and interactivity. For more information, visit Verizon Media & Entertainment to learn more.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Bar-Ilan University

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    Mission

    Bar-Ilan University is a public research university in the Tel Aviv District city of Ramat Gan, Israel. Established in 1955, Bar Ilan is Israel’s second-largest academic university institution.

    Bar-Ilan University has ten faculties: Engineering, Humanities, Social Sciences, Life Sciences, Exact Sciences, Law, Education, Jewish Studies (the largest of its kind in the world), Medicine (the only faculty located on its own campus in Safed), and the Interdisciplinary Studies Unit (Mechina Program). In addition, the university is home to over seventy research institutes covering a vast array of fields.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Secretary-General’s message on the International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda [scroll down for French version]

    Source: United Nations – English

    oday we mourn the one million children, women and men slaughtered in the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.

    This appalling chapter in human history was not a spontaneous frenzy of horrendous violence. It was intentional, premeditated and planned — including through hate speech that inflamed division, and spread lies and dehumanization. The overwhelming majority of victims were Tutsi, but also Hutu and others who opposed the genocide.

    As we recall how these crimes came about, we must also reflect on resonance with our own times. 

    These are days of division. The narrative of “us” versus “them” is ascendant, polarizing societies. Digital technologies are being weaponized to further inflame hate, stoke division, and spread lies.

    We must learn from the terrible history of the genocide in Rwanda, and act to stem the tide of hate speech, stop disunity and discontent mutating into violence, uphold human rights, and ensure accountability.

    I urge all States to deliver on commitments made in the Global Digital Compact to tackle online falsehoods and hate, to comply with their obligations under international humanitarian and human rights law, and to become parties to the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide
    without delay.

    On this day of remembrance, let’s commit to be vigilant and to work together to build a world of justice and dignity for all – in honour of all the victims, and survivors of the genocide in Rwanda.   

    ***
    Aujourd’hui, nous pleurons le million d’enfants, de femmes et d’hommes massacrés lors du génocide des Tutsis au Rwanda en 1994.

    Dans ce chapitre effroyable de l’histoire de l’humanité, le déchaînement de violence épouvantable n’était pas spontané. Il était intentionnel, prémédité et planifié, alimenté notamment par un discours de haine qui a servi à attiser la discorde et à propager des mensonges et a contribué à la déshumanisation. Les victimes étaient en grande majorité des Tutsis, mais aussi des Hutus et d’autres personnes qui s’opposaient au génocide.

    Tout en nous nous souvenant de la manière dont ces crimes ont pris naissance, nous devons réfléchir à la façon dont ils résonnent à l’heure actuelle. 

    Nous vivons une époque de division. Le discours du « nous contre eux » se fait de plus en plus entendre et polarise les sociétés. Les technologies numériques sont instrumentalisées pour aviver la haine, attiser les dissensions et répandre des mensonges.

    Nous devons tirer les leçons du sombre chapitre du génocide au Rwanda et agir pour endiguer la vague de discours haineux, empêcher la désunion et le mécontentement de se transformer en violence, faire respecter les droits humains et garantir l’application du principe de responsabilité.

    Je demande instamment à tous les États de tenir les engagements qu’ils ont pris dans le cadre du Pacte numérique mondial afin de lutter contre les mensonges et la haine en ligne, d’honorer les obligations que leur font le droit international humanitaire et le droit des droits humains, et de devenir parties à la Convention pour la prévention et la répression du crime de génocide sans plus tarder.

    En cette journée du souvenir, engageons-nous à être vigilants et à œuvrer de concert à bâtir un monde de justice et de dignité pour tous et toutes – en mémoire de toutes les victimes et de toutes les personnes rescapées du génocide au Rwanda.

    ***

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah chairs a security review meeting in Raipur, Chhattisgarh

    Source: Government of India

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah chairs a security review meeting in Raipur, Chhattisgarh

    Double engine government under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi is leaving no stone unturned in completely elaminating Naxalism

    Before 31 March, Naxalism will become history in the entire country including Chhattisgarh

    Naxalism ruined many generations, now it should not take more time to eliminate this problem

    Chhattisgarh government has made satisfactory progress on both development and security fronts

    The ongoing fight against Naxalites must not scattered

    Coverage area of the ‘NiyadNellanar’ scheme should be expanded from a 5-km to 10 km radius around security camps

    It must be ensured that people in Naxal-affected areas receive equal opportunities for development

    Coordination among states police and central agencies should improve to nab those Naxals fleeing from one state to another

    Posted On: 05 APR 2025 11:25PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah chaired a security review meeting in Raipur, Chhattisgarh.The meeting was attended by Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai, Deputy Chief Minister Shri Vijay Sharma, the Director of the Intelligence Bureau (IB), Special Secretary (Internal Security) in the Ministry of Home Affairs, Directors General of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), National Investigation Agency (NIA), Border Security Force (BSF), and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) as well as the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police of Chhattisgarh.

    Addressing the meeting, the Union Home Minister said that the double engine government under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi is leaving no stone unturned in completely elaminatingNaxalism. He said that before 31 March, Naxalism will become history in the entire country including Chhattisgarh.

    Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah said Naxalism ruined many generations, now it should not take more time to eliminate this problem. He said, the ongoing fight against Naxalites must not scattered.

    Shri Amit Shah said, Coordination among states police and central agencies should improve to nab those Naxals fleeing from one state to another. 

    Shri Amit Shah said, Chhattisgarh government has made satisfactory progress on both development and security fronts. He said, coverage area of the ‘NiyadNellanar’ scheme should be expanded from a 5-km to 10 km radius around security camps. Shri Shah said, it must be ensured that people in Naxal-affected areas receive equal opportunities for development. The Union Home Minister said that the momentum of the anti-Naxal operation should not diminish under any circumstances.

    ***

    RK/VV/PR/PS

    (Release ID: 2119424) Visitor Counter : 20

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Raksha Mantri reviews maritime security situation & Indian Navy’s operational readiness during the Phase-1 of the first Naval Commanders’ Conference of 2025 in Karwar

    Source: Government of India

    Raksha Mantri reviews maritime security situation & Indian Navy’s operational readiness during the Phase-1 of the first Naval Commanders’ Conference of 2025 in Karwar

    21st century is Asia’s century; It is our responsibility to ensure peace & prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region, says Shri Rajnath Singh

    India stands for a free, open & rule-based order; Assess changing circumstances and ensure planning, resourcing & exercising accordingly: RM to Commanders

    Posted On: 05 APR 2025 5:54PM by PIB Delhi

    Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh reviewed the maritime security situation, operational readiness of the Indian Navy, and the future outlook during the inaugural phase of the first Naval Commanders’ Conference of 2025 in Karwar, Karnataka on April 05, 2025. Raksha Mantri interacted with the Naval Commanders, with deliberations focussing on addressing contemporary security paradigms, formulating the way ahead to further the combat capability of the Navy, and addressing strategic, operational & administrative aspects. He was accompanied by Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh and other senior officials.

    Addressing the Commanders, Shri Rajnath Singh commended the Navy’s contribution in strengthening India’s maritime security, surpassing the expectations of the people in every situation, and displaying continued commitment towards serving the nation with new energy & innovation.

    Raksha Mantri asserted that it is a necessity to reorient the future roles of the Armed Forces amidst the present unpredictable geopolitical landscape. He referred to the acceptance of global experts that 21stcentury is Asia’s century and India will have a crucial role to play, stating “It is our responsibility to ensure peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific as the region has become a focal point for the world”.

    Shri Rajnath Singh reiterated that India stands for a free, open and rule-based order in accordance with the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), urging the Commanders to assess the changing circumstances and ensure planning, resourcing & exercising accordingly, while remaining alert and prepared. “Security is an ongoing adaptation process, wherein there is a need to keep assessing, planning, and coming out with new ideas. We need to analyse how India can make its role more effective,” he said.

    Emphasising that national security is of paramount importance to the Government, led by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Raksha Mantri stated that it has always been ensured that the requirements of the Armed Forces are fulfilled. “The speed at which the work of naval modernisation is being carried out for the last 10-11 years is unprecedented. Induction of new platforms, state-of-the-art equipment has significantly enhanced our Naval prowess and the morale of our brave sailors. It is a testimony to the fact that we are always standing with you in your preparations,” he said.

    On 2025 being declared as the ‘Year of Reforms’ in the Ministry of Defence, Shri Rajnath Singh called for concerted efforts of all stakeholders to fulfil their commitment to reforms. “There are two types of reforms. One is policy reforms which are carried out at the level of the Ministries. Many officers look into policy-related issues, obtain feedback from everyone and formulate policies accordingly. The second type is ground-level reform. Whether it is related to training, R&D, financial or manpower reforms, your role is most important in all these. Till the time there is no convergence of top-down approach and bottom-top approach, we will not be able to achieve our reforms’ goal in the right manner,” he told the Commanders.

    The conference is the apex-level, biannual event facilitating deliberations on significant strategic, operational, and administrative issues among the top Naval Commanders. It plays a pivotal role in emphasising India’s role as a ‘Preferred Security Partner’ in the Indian Ocean Region, bolstering the Navy’s contribution to regional peace, security, and stability.

     The second phase of the conference will be held in New Delhi from April 07 to 10, 2025, witnessing a comprehensive review of major operational, materiel, logistics, HR development, training, and administrative aspects. Chief of Defence Staff, Chief of the Army Staff & Chief of the Air Staff will also engage with Naval Commanders during the Conference to foster synergy amongst the three Services and further drive the convergence efforts.

    The Commanders will also engage with Foreign Secretary Shri Vikram Misri and Shri Amitabh Kant on issues related to foreign policy and international engagement. The Indian Navy’s quest to strengthen modernisation, indigenisation, and self-reliance in line with Government’s vision of Aatmanirbharta is the key focus area of the event.

    ******

    VK/VM/Savvy

    (Release ID: 2119284) Visitor Counter : 63

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Pop Culture Festival’s outdoor music carnival “ImagineLand 2025” to be held today and tomorrow

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Outdoor music carnival “ImagineLand 2025”, the highlight programme of the Hong Kong Pop Culture Festival 2025 (PCF), is being held today and tomorrow (April 5 and 6) from noon to 10pm at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre (HKCC) Piazza, the Central Lawn & Event Trellis of Salisbury Garden, and the Avenue of Stars free of charge. Today’s (April 5) carnival has attracted many citizens and tourists to watch and participate in its performances and activities.
     
         The PCF is organised by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD), and one of the programmes, “ImagineLand 2025”, is supported and sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency. The Carnival features both daytime and evening programmes. “Go Beyond Concert”, “Comics Fun Experience Gallery” and “Funarts Corner” are available during the day, whereas film programme “Movie Under the Stars” will be held at night.
     
         “Go Beyond Concert”, curated by veteran music professionals Dr Wong Chi-chung, Chiu Tseng-hei and Vicky Fung, together with young jazz musician Alan Kwan as guest curator, showcases three stages at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Piazza, namely the Forest Stage, Grove Stage and Seed Stage, featuring over 35 musicians and artists from Hong Kong and eight countries and regions to perform mesmerising popular songs and original works. Today’s performances at the Forest Stage featured local pop singers such as Ivana Wong, Joey Tang, Cloud, Ashley Lin, and overseas artists including Didirri from Australia, Sunwoojunga from Korea and more. The Grove Stage showcased performances of different musical styles including electronic, jazz, and rap, while the Seed Stage featured energetic performances by young musicians, filling the Piazza with a multicultural atmosphere.
     
         Tomorrow’s (April 6) performances are also unmissable. The line-up includes erhuist and film composer Wan Pin Chu, the winner of Best Original Music of the 18th Asian Film Awards Ceremony, who will share the stage with renowned local singer-songwriter Yatfung and a cappella group Boonfaysau. Local band Pandora and visiting music groups or musicians, including Naked Feel (the Mainland and Ukraine) , Mathis Picard Trio (France, the United States and the United Kingdom), Invisible Architecture (the United States) and Tomoaki Baba (Japan), will also perform on stage, which should not be missed.
     
         “Comics Fun Experience Gallery” is now on display featuring Hong Kong comics and animation from different eras and popular characters including Old Master Q, Sau Nga Chun, Ngau Chai and Father from Myboy, Din Dong, Tai Ma Shing, and more to highlight the creativity of local artists. There are themed photo spots where iconic props and fiberglass comic characters are set up for visitors to take pictures with their favourite characters. The exhibition will continue at the HKCC until May 7, and then move to Event Space 1.1, VESSEL, Kwun Tong, for display from May 10 to 29.
     
         There is a “Funarts Corner” with yarn spinning, paper fan imprinting, a joyful caricature studio, sound healing and music instrument workshops. Visitors can explore and experience Hong Kong’s pop culture in many different ways through the workshops that blend art, music, and crafts.
     
         “Movie Under the Stars” will be staged at 8pm on both evenings. “Table For Six” (2022) will be screened tonight and “Forbidden City Cop” (1996) on April 6. Audiences can enjoy local comedies while relaxing on the outdoor lawn.
     
         This year, the LCSD presents the third Hong Kong Pop Culture Festival, themed “More Than Joy”. Humour has been a trendsetter in Hong Kong’s pop culture scene. The Festival features a diverse range of formats including stage performances, film screenings, thematic exhibitions, and library and outreach activities. Offering insight into the multifaceted development of Hong Kong’s pop culture along the line of “happiness”, the Festival brings audiences not only joy and laughter but also an opportunity to appreciate how pop culture can be transmitted and transformed, and how integration and breakthroughs are possible. For more information, please visit www.pcf.gov.hk/en.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DH continues to clamp down on illegal waterpipe smoking in no smoking areas during long weekend (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Tobacco and Alcohol Control Office (TACO) of the Department of Health (DH) continued to clamp down on illegal waterpipe smoking in no smoking areas during the long weekend of the Ching Ming Festival holiday by conducting another enforcement operation, codenamed “Pipepurge”, in Causeway Bay last night (April 4). A total of three fixed penalty notices (FPNs) were issued.
     
         During the operation, officers from TACO (including plainclothes officers) carried out inspections and enforcement action at a bar in Causeway Bay, and issued three FPNs to persons illegally smoking waterpipes. TACO’s investigation is ongoing, and prosecution may also be taken against the operators of the bar who are suspected of aiding and abetting smoking offences. TACO will also refer the cases to the Liquor Licensing Board for appropriate follow-up action.
     
         Under the Ordinance, conducting a smoking act in a statutory no smoking area (such as indoor areas of bars or restaurants) is prohibited. Any person doing a smoking act in statutory no smoking areas is liable to a fixed penalty of $1,500. Moreover, where smoking products (including waterpipes) are sold, in bars or otherwise, the restrictions on the promotion and sale of smoking products stipulated in the Ordinance apply. Offenders are liable on summary conviction to a maximum fine of $50,000. Venue managers of statutory no smoking areas are empowered by the Ordinance to request a smoking offender cease the act; if the offender is not co-operative, the manager may contact the Police for assistance.
     
         In addition, under the Criminal Procedure Ordinance, any person who aids, abets, counsels or procures the commission by another person of any offence shall be guilty of the same offence.
     
         “The DH will continue to closely monitor and take stringent enforcement action against illegal waterpipe smoking. Last year (2024), TACO conducted 162 operations against illegal waterpipe smoking activities in no smoking areas. A total of 162 FPNs were issued against smoking offenders, while 89 summonses were issued to staff members and operators of the bars/restaurants for other related offences,” the Head of TACO, Dr Fung Ying said.
     
         Dr Fung reminded the public that waterpipe is a smoking product, and its combustion of fuel (e.g. charcoal) releases carbon monoxide. Exposure to a low concentration of carbon monoxide can lead to a range of symptoms such as dizziness, headache, tiredness and nausea; whereas exposure to a high concentration of carbon monoxide can lead to impaired vision, disturbed co-ordination, unconsciousness, brain damage or even death. People should seek medical attention immediately if they suspect they are developing symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning.
     
         A typical one-hour waterpipe smoking session exposes the user to 100 to 200 times the volume of smoke inhaled from a single conventional cigarette. Moreover, sharing a waterpipe apparatus increases the risk of transmitting infectious diseases, such as tuberculosis.
     
         She cautioned against waterpipe smoking and the use of other smoking products. Smokers should quit smoking as early as possible for their own health and that of others. For more information on the hazards of waterpipe smoking, please visit www.livetobaccofree.hk/pdfs/waterpipe_leaflet_new.pdf.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Missing woman in Mong Kok located

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         A woman who went missing in Mong Kok has been located.
     
         Leung Yuk-lan, aged 86, went missing after she left her residence on Tai Kok Tsui Road on April 2 afternoon. Her family made a report to Police.
     
         The woman was located on Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui on April 3 evening. She sustained no injuries and no suspicious circumstances were detected.
     

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Europe’s industrial and mobile heritage – E-001309/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001309/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Bogdan Andrzej Zdrojewski (PPE), Łukasz Kohut (PPE), Borys Budka (PPE)

    Industrial and mobile heritage is a part of our European identity, representing the technological and social development that has shaped our continent. Preserving this heritage ensures that future generations can understand and appreciate Europe’s industrial values. A key element of its preservation is the continued, but limited production of CO2 based on the availability and use of fossil fuels necessary for the operation of heritage machinery and vehicles.

    • 1.How does the Commission plan to take into account the specific needs of industrial and mobile heritage in the ongoing revision of the CO2 Regulation and the EU Climate Law, ensuring that a limited and controlled production of CO2 and supply of fossil fuels remains available for this purpose?
    • 2.How does the Commission intend to avoid restrictions of cultural heritage fuels resulting from future regulatory developments and considering the importance of passing knowledge and expertise related to industrial and mobile heritage to future generations, and what measures does the Commission plan to support educational and promotional initiatives?
    • 3.How does the Commission plan to bring industrial and mobile heritage to policy action and protection at a time when Europe needs to showcase its inventiveness, industrial ingenuity, creativity and historical achievements?

    Submitted: 28.3.2025

    Last updated: 7 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –