Category: Justice

MIL-OSI: Franklin Access Appoints Ira Greenstein to Board of Directors

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SAN DIEGO, Feb. 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Franklin Wireless Corp. (NASDAQ: FKWL) announces the appointment of Ira Greenstein to the Company’s Board of Directors, effective February 17, 2025.

“We are pleased to welcome Ira Greenstein to the Company’s Board of Directors,” said OC Kim, President and CEO of Franklin Wireless. “Ira’s extensive legal, corporate, and government experience brings a new depth of knowledge, critical skills in strategic decision-making and governance to the board.”

Mr. Greenstein is a Founding Partner of the Pierson Ferdinand LLP law firm. He previously served as Deputy Assistant and Strategist to the President during the first Trump Administration. Before his government service, he was President of IDT Corporation and Genie Energy Ltd.

Mr. Greenstein holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Cornell University’s School of Industrial and Labor Relations and a Juris Doctor (JD) from Columbia University School of Law. He is currently a member of the board of Forafric Global plc. (NASDAQ: AFRI), where he serves on the Audit and Remuneration Committees.

Mr. Greenstein will be replacing Gary Nelson on the Board as Mr. Nelson has decided to resign from the Board to enjoy more time with his family.

About Franklin Access
Franklin Access (NASDAQ: FKWL) specializes in integrated connectivity solutions powered by 4G LTE and 5G technologies. The company offers mobile device management (MDM), network management solutions (NMS), and innovative wireless products for the digital age. For more information, visit FranklinAccess.com.

Safe Harbor Statement
Certain statements in this press release constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied due to various factors.

For media inquiries, please contact: marketing@franklinaccess.com

The MIL Network –

February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Philly’s Chinatown has a rich tradition of activism – the Sixers arena fight was just one of many to preserve the neighborhood

Source: The Conversation – USA – By Vivian Truong, Assistant Professor of History, Swarthmore College

Save Chinatown protesters take to the streets on Sept. 7, 2024. Zachary Kreines, CC BY-NC-ND

Visitors commonly view Philadelphia’s Chinatown as a place to eat Chinese food and appreciate Chinese culture. But for longtime members of the Chinatown community, the neighborhood – home to over over 5,000 residents – is also defined by its tenacity and survival.

Chinatown’s rich tradition of activism was on full display for the past two and half years, as residents and allies fiercely opposed the Philadelphia 76ers’ plans to build a basketball arena in the Market East neighborhood at the southern edge of Chinatown.

A city-sponsored community impact study found that the arena could have resulted in the “loss of Chinatown’s core identity and regional significance.” It estimated that half of the neighborhood’s small businesses would have suffered due to increased congestion, potential rent increases and a new demographic less likely to patronize the area’s ethnic businesses.

While the reason for the Sixers’ sudden decision to scrap the Market East arena plan remains unclear, the announcement in January 2025 came as a relief to Chinatown community members who felt they had averted yet another threat to their neighborhood’s existence.

I’m a historian whose research focuses on Asian Americans, cities and social movements, and I’ve seen how urban residents take the existence of Chinatowns in major cities across the country – and even globally, from London to Havana, Cuba, and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam – for granted. Chinatowns continue to exist and thrive thanks to the residents and allies who fight for them.

The fight over the Sixers arena was only the latest struggle in over 50 years of community organizing in Philadelphia’s Chinatown.

Friendship Gate, erected in the 1980s, serves as a symbolic entrance to Philadelphia’s Chinatown.
Jumping Rocks/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

A refuge from xenophobia

Like other American Chinatowns, Philadelphia’s formed during an era of virulent anti-Chinese racism. The neighborhood was established in the 1870s as a refuge for immigrants fleeing the American West, where white railroad workers and miners declared “The Chinese must go!”.

Among the earliest businesses were a handful of laundries and a restaurant on the 900 block of Race Street, just north of Philadelphia’s main commercial district.

In the era of anti-Chinese immigration laws from 1875 to 1943, Chinatowns were associated with opium-smoking, gambling and prostitution. Law enforcement targeted and stigmatized the Philadelphia neighborhood as a center of vice and danger. Meanwhile, city and private developers had their eyes on Chinatown as early as the 1920s.

In 1923, the Bell Telephone Company purchased additional real estate along the corridor for its new high-rise building and parking lot, displacing Chinese residents. In the same decade, the city used eminent domain to demolish blocks of housing to make way for the Broad-Ridge Spur connecting the Eighth Street and Vine Street subway stations. A Philadelphia Evening Bulletin article in 1934 declared Chinatown to be “a thing of the past.”

As the city began to accommodate more car owners, Race Street was remade as a major thoroughfare to the Delaware Valley Bridge, now called the Ben Franklin Bridge. In 1926, the year the bridge was completed, the Bulletin declared that “The Delaware River Bridge has come and Chinatown must go,” echoing the xenophobic slogans that drove Chinese workers out of western states half a century earlier.

But Chinatown persisted.

As restrictions on immigration from China loosened after World War II, more Chinese women immigrated to the U.S. The neighborhood transformed from a bachelor society of aging workers to a growing intergenerational community of families.

‘Save Chinatown’ movement forms

During the social upheavals of the 1960s and 1970s, Philadelphia’s Chinatown youth took inspiration from the Black Power and anti-war movements to fight for their community.

In 1966, the city proposed the expansion of Vine Street into an expressway that would have demolished large swaths of Chinatown, including the beloved Holy Redeemer church and school. Established for Chinese American Catholics in 1941, Holy Redeemer hosted neighborhood meetings and recreational events as well as religious services. The Vine Street Expressway project was one instance of the national phenomenon of urban renewal, which aimed to clear and redevelop areas designated as blighted.

The Philadelphia Chinatown Development Corporation nonprofit worked with Yellow Seeds, a group of radical Asian American youth who opposed U.S. racism and imperialism, and other Chinatown community members to fight construction of the expressway.

These groups comprised the 1970s Save Chinatown movement. They held numerous protests, made frequent media appearances and used the 1970 National Environmental Policy Act to craft their strategy. They demanded an environmental impact statement, which, when issued in 1983, recommended a much smaller expressway than originally designed. Holy Redeemer was saved. The final plans also scrapped two off-ramps that would have cut through the neighborhood. Construction on the expressway was completed in 1991.

Resisting a prison, baseball stadium and casino

The Save Chinatown movement continued through the decades as community members successfully fought the construction of a federal prison in 1993, a baseball stadium in 2000 and a casino in 2008 – all proposed for sites in or bordering Chinatown.

“The future of Chinatown is going to be a huge battle,” activist Debbie Wei stated in a 2002 documentary released after the conclusion of the baseball stadium fight a few years earlier. “We’re going to fight it, and my children are probably going to have to fight it as well.”

‘Look Forward and Carry on the Past: Stories from Philadelphia’s Chinatown’ (2002). Debbie Wei’s reflections on the future of Chinatown begin at 25:28.

Her words were prescient. Her daughter Kaia Chau emerged as a key leader of the campaign against the Sixers arena 20 years later.

Chau co-founded Students for the Preservation of Chinatown with fellow student leader Taryn Flaherty. The group organized teach-ins, galvanized Philadelphia-area students to join protests, and highlighted arena developers’ ties to local universities, including the University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University. By focusing on the developers, students made connections between the arena proposal and the gentrification of West Philadelphia, including the demolition of the University City Townhomes, an affordable housing complex whose residents were mostly Black.

The movement against the Sixers arena became part of a multiracial, citywide fight against displacement. As Rev. Gregory Holston of Black Philly 4 Chinatown, part of the Save Chinatown coalition, put it: “In North Philadelphia, in West Philadelphia, in South Philadelphia, the same process is happening over and over and over again, where people are pushing and displacing people of color out of this city.”

Philadelphia’s Chinatown neighborhood celebrates the Lunar New Year in 2024, the Year of the Dragon.
Wolfgang Schwan/Anadolu via Getty Images

Thriving intergenerational community

Activists have also created new housing, educational and arts institutions to keep Chinatown a family-friendly neighborhood.

The location where the prison was planned in 1993 is now Hing Wah Yuen, a 51-unit mixed-income affordable housing complex developed by the Philadelphia Chinatown Development Corporation – the same organization that led the fight against the Vine Street Expressway in the 1970s.

After the plans for the baseball stadium were scrapped in 2000, the grassroots Chinatown-based organization Asian Americans United partnered with the arts and culture organization Philadelphia Folklore Project to found the Folk Arts-Cultural Treasures School in 2005.

The K-8 school, located in the footprint of the proposed stadium, teaches Mandarin and emphasizes art and music classes that reflect students’ cultural background.

More recently, recognizing the need for more “third places” for youth beyond home and school, student leaders Chau and Flaherty launched the Ginger Arts Center in 2024. The organization provides a recreational space and arts programs for young people in Chinatown.

The community institutions that have sprung up in the wake of defeated development projects illustrate how Chinatown is not a thing of the past, nor is it solely a food and culture destination to be consumed.

Rather, Chinatown is a thriving community that has long fought to survive, reinvent itself and determine its own future – one that carries the legacy of previous generations of resistance.

Read more of our stories about Philadelphia.

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

– ref. Philly’s Chinatown has a rich tradition of activism – the Sixers arena fight was just one of many to preserve the neighborhood – https://theconversation.com/phillys-chinatown-has-a-rich-tradition-of-activism-the-sixers-arena-fight-was-just-one-of-many-to-preserve-the-neighborhood-247549

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Cochrane — Cochrane RCMP arrest and charge two prolific offenders
Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

During Dec. of 2024, the Cochrane RCMP Crime Reduction Unit with assistance from the Southern Alberta General Investigation Section, monitored the release of two prolific offenders. Within just a few days after release, both offenders committed an Armed Robbery and stole a motor vehicle. RCMP soon located one offender in a stolen vehicle on Stoney Nakoda who then dangerously fled from Police. Police tracked the offender to a residence in Calgary and with assistance from Calgary Police Service, the offender was successfully arrested without incident.

Later in the same month, Canmore RCMP responded to a break and enter where the second offender fled from police in a stolen vehicle. The police later located the offender on foot but he fled. The offender deployed bear spray at the officer but with assistance from the RCMP Police Dog Services, the offender was quickly apprehended. The officer was not injured.

As a result of the investigation, the RCMP recovered a stolen shotgun and four stolen vehicles. The two offenders were charged with a combined total of 27 Criminal Code offences.

A 26-year-old individual, a resident of Stoney Nakoda First Nation, was charged with:
- Robbery with a Firearm;
- Flight from Police;
- Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle;
- Theft of a Motor Vehicle;
- Possession of Property Obtained by Crime over $5000;
- Three counts of Uttering Threats; and
- Five Counts of Failing to Comply with a Probation Order.
A 28-year-old individual, a resident of Stoney Nakoda First Nation, was charged with:
- Robbery with a Firearm;
- Pointing a Firearm;
- Flight from Police;
- Assault with a Weapon;
- Assault on a Police Officer;
- Possession of Property Obtained by Crime over $5000;
- Theft of a Motor Vehicle;
- Three counts of Uttering Threats
- Two counts of Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm; and
- Two counts of Possession of a Firearm Contrary to an Order.
Inspector Dave Brunner of the Cochrane RCMP said “We not only patrol the streets, but also patrol the patterns. We are here to identify, monitor, arrest and break the cycle of prolific offenders.” Both offenders have been remanded into custody and await court appearances.

If you have any information regarding a crime, please contact Cochrane RCMP at 403-851-8000 or your area of jurisdiction. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store. To report crime online, or for access to RCMP news and information, download the Alberta RCMP app through Apple or Google Play.

MIL Security OSI –
February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: New President of the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs’ Collège de Terminologie et de Néologie (14 Feb. 2025)

Source: Republic of France in English
The Republic of France has issued the following statement:

Following on from the 19th Francophone Summit and the 30th anniversary of the Toubon Law governing the use of the French language, the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs is continuing its efforts to promote the French language and ensure that it plays a central role in international relations.

The Ministry is committed to creating and popularizing French terms and expressions for new concepts with foreign names via its Collège de Terminologie et de Néologie [“College of Terminology and Neology”]. The College also has authority over international place names and is responsible for designating the names of countries, inhabitants, capitals, etc.

It plays a major role in the interministerial structure tasked with enriching the French language.

Given the challenges posed by disinformation and the need to tackle issues relating to AI, the clear and precise usage of the correct words is vital.

Former Ambassador François Gauthier is the new president of the College, which falls under the supervision of Emmanuel Lebrun-Damiens, the senior official responsible for terminology and the French language who also serves as Director of Cultural, Educational, Academic and Scientific Diplomacy. Mr. Gauthier succeeds Véronique Bujon-Barré in this position.

MIL OSI Europe News –

February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Airdrie — Airdrie RCMP successful in crime reduction operation
Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

Between the dates of Oct. 1, 2024 and Oct. 11, 2024, the Airdrie RCMP Crime Reduction Unit, with the assistance of the Airdrie General Investigations Section and Special Investigations Units, conducted an enhanced crime reduction operation. Strategies included targeting high crime hot spots, as well as individuals remaining on outstanding arrest warrants in the city of Airdrie and Rocky View County.

As a result of this proactive operation, the following actions were completed:
- 30 warrants were executed
- 39 criminal code charges laid
- 6 firearms and 1 military ordinance were seized
- 2 stolen vehicles were recovered
- 4 oz of a controlled substance, Cocaine, was seized
MIL Security OSI –
February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Elk Point — Alberta RCMP arrest repeat offender in possession of stolen vehicle and firearms
Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

On Jan. 8, 2025, units from the Alberta RCMP were attempting to locate a suspect wanted for a series of serious charges out of Cold Lake, Alta. when they located him at a rural residence near Elk Point, Alta. Prior to RCMP intervention, the suspect and two other individuals were observed departing in a motor vehicle. Several units, including the Alberta RCMP Emergency Response Team, monitored the suspect unit his vehicle was safely disabled.

Checks on the vehicle the suspect was operating revealed that it was stolen. A search of the vehicle revealed several firearms recently stolen out of Vermillion, Alta. Additionally, a second stolen vehicle and two stolen trailers were located at the property that the suspect was observed leaving.

RCMP have charged a 41-year-old individual, a resident of Cold Lake, with:
- Flight from police;
- Possession of firearm in motor vehicle (x6);
- Unauthorized possession of a firearm;
- Possession of property obtained by crime over $5000.
The 41-year-old individual was taken before a justice of the peace and remanded into custody with his next court date set for Jan. 21, 2025, at the Alberta Court of Justice in Bonnyville, Alta.

RCMP have charged a 33-year-old individual, a resident of MD of Bonnyville, with:
- Possession of firearm in motor vehicle (x6);
- Unauthorized possession of a firearm;
- Possession of property obtained by crime over $5000;
- Fail to comply with release conditions (x4);
- Possession of a firearm contrary to order (x3).
The 33-year-old individual was taken before a justice of the peace and remanded into custody with his next court date set for Jan. 13, 2025, at the Albert Court of Justice in Lac la Biche, Alta.

A youth was also charged with multiple offences and released for a future court date.

“This complex investigation saw the close coordination of multiple RCMP Units in Eastern Alberta including Bonnyville, Elk Point, Cold Lake, and our District GIS and Crime Reduction Teams. “says Sarah Parke Detachment Commander Bonnyville RCMP,” Ultimately with the close coordination of these Units our Emergency Response Team was able to safety disable the vehicle driven by this potentially dangerous suspect minimizing his risk to the public.”

MIL Security OSI –
February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: ICE Philadelphia removes El Salvadorian wanted for aggravated homicide and terrorist organization

Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

PHILADELPHIA – Immigration and Customs Enforcement Philadelphia removed Jonathan Stanley Garcia Vasquez, a citizen of El Salvador with a final order of removal, to El Salvador, Feb. 14. Garcia is a foreign fugitive wanted by law enforcement authorities in El Salvador for aggravated homicide and terrorist organization.

“Today’s successful removal of Jonathan Stanley Garcia Vasquez highlights our unyielding commitment to the safety and security of the American people. By apprehending and deporting alien foreign fugitives, ICE excels in fulfilling its public safety and national security missions,” said ERO Philadelphia acting Field Office Director Brian McShane. “ERO staff stationed in El Salvador, and their Security Alliance for Fugitive Enforcement taskforce, played a crucial role in this operation, demonstrating the strength of our international cooperation and reach. We will continue to work tirelessly to protect our citizens from those who seek to harm them.”

The U.S. Border Patrol arrested Garcia near Hidalgo, Texas, for entering the United States without inspection or parole by an immigration official, June 9, 2016. The same day, USBP served him with a notice and order of expedited removal, charging inadmissibility.

On Jan. 27, 2017, an immigration judge with the Justice Department’s Executive Office for Immigration Review in El Paso, Texas, granted Garcia an immigration bond, and he was released, Feb. 6, 2017.

Authorities in El Salvador issued an arrest warrant for Garcia for aggravated homicide and terrorist organization, Aug. 7, 2018.

An immigration judge with the Justice Department’s Executive Office for Immigration Review in El Paso, Texas ordered Garcia removed from the United States to El Salvador in absentia, Oct. 30, 2018.

ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Newark arrested Garcia in West New York, New Jersey during a routine enforcement action and transferred him to ERO Philadelphia at the Moshannon Valley Processing Center in Philipsburg, Pennsylvania, for removal to El Salvador, Dec. 20, 2024. He remained in ICE custody throughout removal proceedings.

MIL OSI USA News –

February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Calgary — Alberta RCMP and provincial partners track down top offenders
Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

As part of a new RCMP-led data sharing initiative, Alberta RCMP, Calgary Police Service, and Alberta Sheriffs worked together in a Joint Forces Operation (JFO), targeting the top priority offenders in the province, through a warrant roundup.

The decisions to implement the initiative came following the recognition by Alberta RCMP that all law enforcement agencies in Alberta were ranking priority offenders in different ways. Understanding that criminals operate in various jurisdictions, it was determined that a province wide-model to identify and prioritize offenders was required.

Through the Alberta Association of Chiefs of Police, all police forces in Alberta have entered into an information sharing agreement that will allow for intelligence and statistical data to be routinely shared. This sharing enables police agencies in Alberta to have a true understanding of the priority offenders that are causing the most harm, not only within individual policing jurisdictions, but across the province. This shared data allows police agencies to properly prioritize and take enforcement action on the most harmful offenders, ensuring the safety of all Albertans.

Alberta RCMP ranks the tens of thousands of unique offenders in Alberta based on the harm they cause in individual communities. To determine the harm caused by these individuals, the Alberta RCMP Strategic Analysis and Research Unit developed a matrix to determine which offenders were causing the most harm in Alberta. This determination is done using the uniform Crime Severity Index scoring that is typically applied to communities by Statistics Canada and applying it to individual’s offenders.

Alberta RCMP, with the assistance of Calgary Police Service Business Analytics, Intelligence & Reporting Section, and policing partners across the province, are now able to collect, translate, and disseminate the offender data of all police agencies in the province to form a clear province-wide priority offender list.

From Nov. 17 to Nov. 30, 2024, the Joint Forces warrant apprehension team hit the streets of Calgary and Southern Alberta, which resulted in the following:
- 88 arrests
- 177 warrants executed; 44 for Provincial offences and 133 For Criminal Code offences, representing a total of 306 charges.
RCMP Province wide executed 1005 warrants associated to 948 different offenders. The individuals arrested during the JFO had warrants from all types of crime, ranging from repeat petty thefts, to arsons, drug trafficking, robbery, and sexual offenses.

To highlight some of the offenders who were arrested:
- A 55-year-old male resident of Calgary, who had four warrants for his arrest with over 42 charges associated mostly related to property crime, was arrested. In the previous 18 months he has been linked to a number of offences such as robbery, drug possession and theft of motor vehicle.
- A 42-year-old male resident of Airdrie, who had seven warrants for his arrest with a total of 27 charges for property crime and fail to comply with court ordered conditions, was arrested. In the previous 18 months he has been associated to files related to sexual interference, sexual assault, and a variety of property crime and drug trafficking offences.
- A 34-year-old male resident of Calgary, who had five warrants for his arrest with a total of 32 charges for failing to comply with court orders, was arrested. He has a history of being involved in trafficking drugs, assault with a weapon, as well as a variety of property crime offences.
- A 28-year-old female resident of Cold Lake had one warrant for her arrest for driving offences. She has had 50 interactions with police in the past 18 months, including for robbery, assault with a weapon, drug trafficking and firearms possession investigations.
“Law Enforcement needs to work together to ensure that jurisdictional borders do not impede our ability to catch the criminals causing the most harm across Alberta,” said Supt. Mike McCauley of the Alberta RCMP. “A small percentage of criminals cause a significant amount of harm across the province, and by using data to drive our work like we do in operations like these, the impact is incredible. “

“Thanks to strong interagency collaboration and information sharing, there are now fewer dangerous offenders on Alberta’s streets and in our communities,” said Supt. Mike Letourneau of the Alberta Sheriffs. “The Alberta Sheriffs are proud to work alongside our law enforcement partners as we pursue our shared objective of keeping Albertans safe.”

“We are committed to working collaboratively with our law enforcement partners across the province to keep Calgarians safe,” says Superintendent Jeff Bell of the CPS Criminal Operations & Intelligence Division. “Apprehending offenders that have committed crimes across our province is a critical step in maintaining public safety and preventing further victimization. We are proud to have been a partner in this important initiative.”

MIL Security OSI –
February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: United States Attorney Gary M. Restaino Completes His Service to the Department of Justice

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

PHOENIX, Ariz. – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona announced that United States Attorney Gary M. Restaino has completed his service to the Department, effective yesterday.

Mr. Restaino was informed of his termination in a communication from the White House. As a Presidential appointee, Mr. Restaino is subject to removal from office in the discretion of the sitting President. The White House thanked him for his service to the United States.

“Getting the opportunity to lead an Office in which I have worked for many years has been energizing,” said U.S. Attorney Restaino. “I am grateful to President Biden for the appointment, to Senators Kelly and Sinema for their support of my nomination, and to Attorney General Garland for his stewardship of the Department of Justice. And most of all I am thankful for our people here in Arizona – the dedicated prosecutors, victim advocates and administrative professionals at the United States Attorney’s Office, as well as the agents, analysts, and accountants at our federal law enforcement agencies – who work collaboratively and collegially with state and local partners and leaders of underserved communities to make Arizona a better and safer place.”

Since 2021 the Office has continued its strong efforts at border security, enhanced violent crime prosecutions and increased civil rights prosecutions and interventions.

Border Security

Violent Crime Prosecutions

Civil Rights

Mr. Restaino became United States Attorney in November 2021 after 20 years of service as a federal employee, including two years in the Peace Corps in Paraguay and 18 years as an Assistant United States Attorney here in Arizona. During his tenure, Mr. Restaino served on the Attorney General’s Advisory Committee, advising Attorney General Garland on matters of policy, procedure, and management, and also elevating the voices of the U.S. Attorney community in Washington. In addition, for nearly 90 days in the spring and summer of 2022, and at the direction of President Biden, Mr. Restaino served the women and men of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives as their Acting Director, pending the confirmation of the agency’s nominee.

Pursuant to the Vacancy Reform Act, career prosecutor and First Assistant United States Attorney Rachel C. Hernandez currently serves as the Acting United States Attorney for the District.

The United States Attorney’s Office represents the interests of the United States in criminal and civil cases in federal court in Arizona, coordinates the efforts of its federal law enforcement partners, advocates for the rights of victims, and enhances and strengthens communities through dialogue, outreach, and engagement. The Office currently has approximately 180 Assistant United States Attorneys and approximately 160 additional administrative professionals spread between two large offices in Phoenix and Tucson, and two smaller branch offices in Yuma and Flagstaff.

RELEASE NUMBER: 2025-018_Departure of United States Attorney Gary M. Restaino

# # #

For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on X @USAO_AZ for the latest news.

2025-018_Departure of United States Attorney Gary M. Restaino

MIL Security OSI –

February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: The Polytechnic celebrated the Eastern New Year

Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

The Eastern New Year, the year of the Green Wooden Snake, was celebrated in the Polytechnic Tower. The main organizer of the event was the Humanitarian Institute together with the Higher School of International Educational Programs. Representatives of various Polytechnic institutes and St. Petersburg universities took part in the concert program

This year, the celebration was held for the first time at the Youth Trajectory Center, in the Polytechnic Tower. The hosts were Ksenia Kolomeitseva, a student at the Higher School of International Relations, and Artem Kuzmin, a student at the Higher School of Law and Forensic Science.

The Director of the Humanitarian Institute Natalia Chicherina and the Assistant Vice-Rector for International Activities Pavel Nedelko delivered welcoming remarks.

In our multinational student family, we can celebrate the New Year several times. Today, we have a unique opportunity to learn about the bright traditions of this holiday together with representatives of China, Indonesia and Vietnam, – noted Natalia Chicherina.

Polytechnicians talked about the cultural characteristics of their countries, held an interactive competition with souvenirs for the participants. A student of the Higher School of Linguistics and Pedagogy Li Junying gave a presentation in Russian about the traditions and culture of China. Nguyen Thi Ngoc Mai from IPMET represented Vietnam, a postgraduate student of the Higher School of Physics and Materials Technology of IMMIT Tegu Imanulla gave a report about Indonesia, in which he spoke about national dishes, dances, symbols, good luck charms and much more.

Ye Zizhou, a student at the Graduate School of International Relations, performed a traditional Chinese number symbolizing the wisdom of the Green Snake. Together with Viktoria Dyshko, she showed a modern dance in the K-pop style. Mao Yiling from the Graduate School of Linguistics and Education demonstrated traditional martial arts with a sword.

Sofia Kononova from the Higher School of International Relations recited a poem in Chinese. Students from the Higher School of Linguistics and Pedagogy performed two Chinese songs: “Gen Wo Yi Qi Zuo” and “Gongxi Ni”. Students from the Higher School of International Relations sang the composition “Flawless Heaven and Earth” in Chinese.

IMMIT postgraduate students Nguyen Van Tu Anh and Tran Thanh Cong performed the Vietnamese song “Hoa co mua suan”, which translates as “Spring flowers and grasses”, with a guitar.

A master class on making magical aromatic sachets in national herbal bags was held by Li Peiyun from the Graduate School of Linguistics and Education. The art of Chinese calligraphy was taught by Yuan Fengxia from the Graduate School of Linguistics and Education. The Chinese tea ceremony was demonstrated by Zhang Yuwen and Mao Yiling from the Graduate School of Linguistics and Education. The secrets of Chinese knotting and making paper lanterns were shared by Xie Zhaoying from the Graduate School of Linguistics and Education.

Celebrating the Eastern New Year is a good tradition of the Polytechnic University. Such events allow us to better understand the culture of other countries. We still don’t know each other very well, so many thanks to all the organizers for the opportunity to communicate with the guys and immerse ourselves in the atmosphere of the East, – shared Pavel Nedelko.

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

MIL OSI Russia News –

February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Millbrook — Millbrook RCMP charge man after stabbing
Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

Millbrook RCMP has charged a man with Attempt to Commit Murder and Assault with a Weapon after a stabbing in Millbrook.

On February 16 at approximately 1:45 am, RCMP and EHS responded to a 911 call from a residence on Birch Bark Rd. Responding officers located a 31-year-old man with multiple injuries inside the home, and learned that he had been stabbed by another man, who was known to him. The injured man was transported to hospital.

Officers safely arrested the suspect who was located in another room in the home.

A search warrant was executed at this residence to locate and seize further evidence. RCMP Forensic Identification Section is supporting the ongoing investigation.

Brenton Joseph Arsenault, 29, of Brookfield, has been charged with:
- Attempt to Commit Murder
- Assault with a Weapon
Arsenault was held in custody and will have a first court appearance at Truro Provincial Court on February 18, 2025.

MIL Security OSI –
February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Ukraine peace talks: Trump is bringing Russia back in from the cold and ticking off items on Putin’s wish list

Source: The Conversation – UK – By James Rodgers, Reader in International Journalism, City St George’s, University of London

The meeting now underway in Saudi Arabia between senior delegations from the United States and Russia could be the first step towards an end to the war in Ukraine – and not just an end to the war. The New York Times has reported that the talks may cover issues beyond the battlefield, with the resumption of US-Russia business ties on the table, too.

Whatever is discussed, Ukraine seems set to lose out.

The same cannot be said of the long-term occupant of the Kremlin. For 20 years, Vladimir Putin has been working towards what Donald Trump has now given him. Ever since Putin bemoaned the collapse of the Soviet Union as “the greatest geopolitical catastrophe” of the 20th century, his foreign policy has been about getting back at least some of the superpower status the Soviet Union enjoyed.

In one sense, the US president’s overture to Putin to discuss peace in Ukraine has given the Russian president exactly what he wanted: for Washington to treat Moscow with the respect – and perhaps even fear – that the Soviet Union once commanded from the west.

And in that sense, Trump’s telephone call with the Kremlin represented a huge triumph for Putin. Putin now has a pending invitation back to the top table of world affairs. He has conceded not an inch of occupied Ukrainian territory to get there. Nor has he even undertaken to give back any of what Russian forces have seized since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine three years ago.

Now his foreign minister, Sergei Lavrov, is talking to the US secretary of state, Marco Rubio. Meanwhile the annexation of Crimea in 2014 – which is when Russia’s war on Ukraine actually began – seems increasingly likely to be overlooked. The suggestion from the US defence secretary, Pete Hesgeth, last week that a return to Ukraine’s pre-2014 borders was “unrealistic” has made clear Washington’s current view on that.

So far, so good for Putin, who sees the western alliance that has been ranged against him – albeit with varying degrees of enthusiasm and commitment – for the past three years beginning to crack.

Under Trump, Washington’s policy on Ukraine is showing signs of significant divergence from that of the EU or UK. Putin no doubt sees his determination not to be cowed by western pressure as starting now to lead to longer-term success.

Read more:
Europe left scrambling in face of wavering US security guarantees

Now the two leaders have agreed to meet – a complete reversal of the three years of increasing isolation during Joe Biden’s presidency. And, as we know, the first time the two leaders met for a summit, in Helsinki in 2018, Putin was widely seen as having outwitted Trump. As Trump’s then senior director for European and Russian Affairs, Fiona Hill, recalled in her memoir: “As Trump responded that he believed Putin over his own intelligence analysts, I wanted to end the whole thing.”

Putin will hardly feel he enters any future negotiation as an underdog. Just by being there, to discuss the most pressing matter for the future of European security with the US president, Putin has achieved part of his long-term goal. Just as in the days of the Soviet Union, leaders from the Kremlin and the White House will meet to discuss European affairs as the preeminent powers on the continent.

The views of Europeans themselves, especially Ukrainians, are secondary.

Back to the top table

If Putin’s 2005 lament for a lost superpower gave a clue to the course his time at the summit of Russian power would take, then he gave yet more clues on the eve of the full-scale invasion. In December 2021, Putin regretted the collapse of the Soviet Union once again.

This time he said it had a significance far beyond the century in which it happened, saying: “We turned into a completely different country. And what had been built up over 1,000 years was largely lost.”

Days later, with expectation growing that Russia was planning to invade Ukraine, the foreign ministry in Moscow published a document it called Treaty between The United States of America and the Russian Federation on security guarantees.

The language chosen is striking today for the references it makes to the Soviet Union, as in article 4: “The United States of America shall undertake to prevent further eastward expansion of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization and deny accession to the Alliance to the States of the former Union of Soviet Socialist Republics.”

The Biden administration dismissed the treaty as the trolling it represented. But Hegseth’s recent remark, “The United States does not believe that Nato membership for Ukraine is a realistic outcome of a negotiated settlement,” fits right in with Putin’s wish list.

This is about Russia becoming the international heavyweight the Soviet Union once was. It is also about a turn of events that greatly favours Putin.

For three years, I have been working on a book, The Return of Russia: From Yeltsin to Putin, the Story of a Vengeful Kremlin. My research included interviews with leading policymakers, among them Jens Stoltenberg, who served as secretary general of Nato between 2014 and 2024. When we spoke in September 2023, I took the opportunity to ask him how he saw the coming months in the war in Ukraine. He told me:

Only the Ukrainians that can decide what is an acceptable solution. But the stronger they are on the battlefield, the stronger they will be on the negotiating table and therefore our responsibility is to support them … but it’s for Ukrainian to make the hard decisions on the battlefield. And of course at the end at the negotiating table.

Trump’s démarche towards a deal appears to ignore that logic, and strengthens Putin’s hand before negotiations have even started.

If it does lead to an end to the war now, there is nothing to say that Putin’s long view of history won’t encourage him to go to war again in a few years. And he’ll be better prepared to capture more territory than he has already in the last three blood-soaked years.

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

– ref. Ukraine peace talks: Trump is bringing Russia back in from the cold and ticking off items on Putin’s wish list – https://theconversation.com/ukraine-peace-talks-trump-is-bringing-russia-back-in-from-the-cold-and-ticking-off-items-on-putins-wish-list-249982

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: NMRTC Twentynine Palms officer recognized as Junior Health IT Officer of the Year

Source: United States Navy (Medical)

In recognition of his leadership and expertise, Lt. Emmanuel Dadzie has been named as Navy Medicine’s 2024 Junior Health Information Technology Officer of the Year. As the Chief Informatics Officer (CIO) at Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command (NMRTC) Twentynine Palms, Lt. Dadzie has been instrumental in modernizing the command’s IT systems, enhancing operational efficiency, and supporting both the medical and operational components aboard the world’s largest Marine Corps base, Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center (MCAGCC) Twentynine Palms.

Dadzie’s tenure at NMRTC Twentynine Palms has been defined by innovation and adaptability. Faced with a significantly undermanned shop in a remote location, he has successfully led his team to overcome challenges and provide cutting-edge IT solutions to the command and its operational partners. One of his most notable achievements includes bringing the Military Health System (MHS) Genesis electronic health record to field operations, a significant advancement that allows providers to access critical medical data while remaining in operational environments.

“Being a dual-hatted Chief Informatics Officer in a remote location is no small feat, and Lt. Dadzie has pulled it off with impeccable skill,” said NMRTC Twentynine Palms Commanding Officer Capt. Daniel Clark. “The number of kudos I receive from outside entities praising Lt. Dadzie and his team speaks volumes toward his initiative and service. Most notably, he brought MHS Genesis to the field, supporting year-round international training exercises and allowing operational providers to remain on site while still accessing the EHR (Electronic Health Record).”

Among Dadzie’s many contributions, his work in improving IT infrastructure efficiency has set new standards for the command. His efforts reduced the time required to re-image computers from one every 24 hours to an astounding 90 computers every two hours. His leadership philosophy of focusing on how to turn challenges into opportunities has empowered his team to drive innovation and find creative solutions to longstanding technical issues.

Reflecting on receiving this prestigious award, Dadzie emphasized the collective effort behind his achievements.

“No significant achievement is accomplished in isolation. This award represents the collaborative efforts of my team and command. It acknowledges NMRTC Twentynine Palms’ collective contributions to leverage technology to support the warfighter aboard the world’s largest Marine Corps base. I’m so honored to be working alongside an incredible group of staff from the Hi-Desert for my follow-on tour after Naval Postgraduate School. None of this would be possible without God and the rock of my life, my wife, Gifty Dadzie.”

His ability to engage with senior leadership across the Defense Health Agency (DHA) and the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) has been pivotal in securing the resources necessary to support NMRTC Twentynine Palms’ mission. Operating in a location frequently affected by severe weather and power outages, Dadzie has ensured the command remains resilient and technologically equipped to support operational readiness.

“I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this award,” said Cmdr. William (Bill) Lawson, NMRTC Twentynine Palms’ Director for Administration. “Lt. Dadzie has been committed to upgrading our infrastructure and systems at Naval Hospital Twentynine Palms all while providing incredible support to our green-side partners and performing his duties with Expeditionary Medical Facility Bravo. He’s a true stand-out amongst his peers.”

Clark echoed this sentiment, noting that in his 28 years of service, he has never encountered a CIO of Dadzie’s caliber. His leadership, expertise, and dedication have modernized every aspect of command operations, ensuring that NMRTC Twentynine Palms remains at the forefront of health information technology in the military.

Dadzie, originally from Accra, Ghana, shared his motivation for joining the Navy and pursuing a career in health IT.

“I joined the Navy to challenge myself and give back to a country that has afforded me numerous opportunities that would have been unimaginable in my country of birth. Working in health IT allows me to have a seat at the table, affect change from the bottom-up, and build a strategic partnership with command leadership to problem-solve difficult tasks with automation to enhance efficiency.”

For junior officers or Sailors interested in a career in health IT, Dadzie offered some key advice.

“Be humble, move in silence, and let your curiosity to innovate lead you,” expressed Dadzie. “Read and keep pace with technological advancements in health IT. Lastly, embrace the red with grace and note that failure and facing adversity is part of the process.”

Navy Medicine’s Junior Health Information Technology Officer of the Year award recognizes officers who demonstrate exceptional technical proficiency, leadership, and impact within the Navy’s medical IT community. Dadzie’s achievements at NMRTC Twentynine Palms serve as an example of the vital role technology plays in military healthcare operations.

MIL Security OSI –

February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Restricting German civil servants’ fundamental rights in connection with opposition parties – E-000361/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-000361/2025/rev.1
to the Commission
Rule 144
Tomasz Froelich (ESN)

According to an internal German Federal Police directive dated 7 January 2025, based on an ordinance of 29 August 2024 issued by the German Federal Minister for the Interior, Nancy Faeser (SPD), federal police officers who are members of Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) or who actively support that party, in particular by standing for election, face disciplinary consequences, including dismissal. Activities within the AfD may be classed as ‘misconduct’ and constitute grounds for dismissal. The AfD has not been declared unconstitutional by the Federal Constitutional Court under Article 21(4) of the Basic Law and is protected by political-party privilege. There cannot possibly be disciplinary consequences for a civil servant by dint of being a member of it. Testing an individual civil servant’s constitutional loyalty requires an individualised appraisal.[1]

1.In the Commission’s view, does the action taken by Minister Faeser, i.e. federal police officers should be dismissed without an individualised assessment of their constitutional loyalty and solely by dint of their membership of or support for the AfD, jeopardise the fundamental rights of those civil servants?

2.Is the Commission aware of similar cases where such action has been taken in other Member States? If so, which ones?

3.Does the Commission intend to take account of the action taken by the Federal Minister for the Interior in its report on the rule of law in Germany?

Submitted: 27.1.2025

[1] Josef Franz Lindner, ‘Zur Parteimitgliedschaft von Beamten’, Verfassungsblog.de, 15 February 2019.
Last updated: 18 February 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Publication of financial reports: Federal Office of Justice imposes disciplinary fine on SPOBAG AG

Source: Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht – In English

On 5 December 2024, the Federal Office of Justice (Bundesamt für Justiz – BfJ) imposed a disciplinary fine amounting to 2,500 euros on SPOBAG AG.

The disciplinary fine order related to a breach of section 325 of the German Commercial Code (Handelsgesetzbuch – HGB). SPOBAG AG failed to submit its accounting documents for the financial year 2023 for the purpose of disclosure to the operator of the German Federal Gazette (Bundesanzeiger) in electronic form within the prescribed period. The legal basis for the sanction is section 335 of the HGB.

The company did not lodge an appeal against the Federal Office of Justice’s decision to impose a disciplinary fine.

MIL OSI Economics –

February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: Ukraine: Global impact of the war is felt far beyond – DPPA Briefing | United Nations

Source: United Nations (Video News)

On the tenth anniversary of the Minsk Agreements, US representative John Kelley told the Security Council that returning to Ukraine’s pre-2014 borders was “an unrealistic objective,” while musician and peace activist Roger Waters welcomed United States President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin talks on Ukraine as “a move in the right direction.”

Briefing Council members on the situation in Ukraine, Assistant Secretary-General for Europe, Central Asia, and the Americas Miroslav Jenča said the ten-year anniversary of the Minsk Agreements has taught us that “agreeing on the ceasefire or the signing of an agreement alone do not ensure a durable end to the violence,” and “ensuring that the conflict does not reoccur and does not escalate will require genuine, genuine political will and understanding of its multidimensional complexity for Ukraine and for the region.”

Waters expressed hope that, “maybe there is a glimmer of light at the end of this dark tunnel of war. It’s come three years and hundreds of thousands of priceless lives too late.”

Russian Ambassador Vasily Nebenzya told the Council that “the Minsk agreements were something which the Western sponsors of the Kiev regime needed purely as a smokescreen to provide armaments to Ukraine and to prepare it for war with Russia.”

Nebenzya said, “had the Minsk agreements been implemented in good faith by Ukraine and its sponsors, there would have been nothing, nothing of what subsequently transpired would have occurred.”

The Russian Ambassador said, “diplomacy has finally been actively brought into the game. And opportunities have emerged for the prompt end to the hot phase of the Ukrainian crisis,” and referring to the Minsk Agreements said, “what lessons do the present negotiators need to draw from the process which so abjectly failed three years ago?”

The US representative, for his part said, “we want a sovereign and prosperous Ukraine, but we must start by recognizing and then returning to Ukraine’s pre-2014 borders is an unrealistic objective. Chasing this illusionary goal will only prolong the war and cause more suffering. A durable peace for Ukraine must include robust security guarantees to ensure the war will not begin again. This must not be Minsk 3.0.”

UK representative Barbara Woodward said, “the conditions for a just and lasting peace which protects Ukraine’s security, sovereignty and independence” must be create, and stressed that “Ukraine’s voice must be at the heart of any negotiations.”

Ukraine’s representative Khrystyna Hayovyshyn said, “weak agreements will not bring real peace, they will only lead to the greater war. That is why we are working with our partners to find strong and effective solutions. Peace cannot be bought, especially not at the expense of law and principles, especially principle of territorial integrity and sovereign equality. This cannot be replaced with appeasement. History offers many relevant examples. Our task is to avoid repeating past mistakes, as the cost of those mistakes is more blood, suffering and destruction.”

Today’s meeting coincided with the tenth anniversary of resolution 2202, which endorsed the now-defunct Minsk agreements of 2015 signed by the representatives of European security pact, the OSCE, Russia, Ukraine and leaders of the pro-Russian separatists in the occupied east of Ukraine following Russia’s annexation of Crimea.

The unanimously adopted resolution included a package of measures as its annex, including an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire in the Donetsk and Luhansk regions of Ukraine, as well as the withdrawal of all heavy weapons by both sides by equal distances to create a security zone.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5znAbPa7Np4

MIL OSI Video –

February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Intimidation of journalists and media freedom in Hungary – E-000230/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-000230/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Pina Picierno (S&D), Giorgio Gori (S&D), Camilla Laureti (S&D), Alessandro Zan (S&D), Brando Benifei (S&D), Sandro Ruotolo (S&D), Irene Tinagli (S&D), Marco Tarquinio (S&D)

Recent reports indicate that Hungary’s state security agency, the Constitution Protection Office, interrogated the independent newspaper Magyar Hang’s journalist Tamás Koncz, editor Lukács Csaba and editor-in-chief György Zsombor, and subjected them to polygraph tests.

Despite requests, records of the questioning and test results have been withheld and the investigation appears to intrude into private matters.

Although the European Court of Human Rights and the Court of Justice of the European Union have repeatedly found Hungary guilty of violating media freedom, the polygraph interrogation of Magyar Hang’s employees is an unprecedented action that exacerbates fears of governmental overreach and intimidation towards the media.

1.Is the Commission aware of this incident involving Magyar Hang journalists and does it consider this a violation of EU values under Article 2 of the Treaty on European Union?

2.What steps is the Commission taking to monitor and address the increasing threats to media freedom in Hungary, particularly in the light of this and other recent incidents?

3.Will the Commission consider launching or expanding infringement proceedings against Hungary for systemic breaches of the rule of law and fundamental rights?

Submitted: 20.1.2025
Last updated: 18 February 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Legislative proposal to include the EU 2040 climate target – E-000551/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-000551/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Maria Ohisalo (Verts/ALE)

An EU-wide climate target for 2040 is to be set under the European Climate Law[1]. To that end, at the latest within six months of the first global stocktake referred to in Article 14 of the Paris Agreement[2], the Commission was to make a legislative proposal incorporating an EU 2040 climate target. The first global stocktake of the Paris Agreement concluded at the Conference of the Parties (COP28) in December 2023[3].

When will the Commission publish a legislative proposal for an EU 2040 climate target in order to ensure that the EU and its Member States adopt revised national climate action plans (i.e. nationally determined contributions, or NDCs) reflecting the 2040 target in a timely manner ahead of COP30?

Submitted: 6.2.2025

[1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:32021R1119.

[2] https://unfccc.int/files/essential_background/convention/application/pdf/english_paris_agreement.pdf.

[3] https://unfccc.int/topics/global-stocktake/about-the-global-stocktake/why-the-global-stocktake-is-important-for-climate-action-this-decade#:~:text=The%20stocktake%20takes%20place%20every,be%20put%20forward%20by%202025.
Last updated: 18 February 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Appeal for information on missing man in Cheung Sha Wan (with photo)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Appeal for information on missing man in Cheung Sha Wan (with photo)
Appeal for information on missing man in Cheung Sha Wan (with photo)
********************************************************************

Police today (February 18) appealed to the public for information on a man who went missing in Cheung Sha Wan. LAU Kok-yim, aged 92, went missing after he was last seen at a hospital on Wing Hong Street, Cheung Sha Wan on February 14 night. His family made a report to Police yesterday (February 17). He is about 1.75 metres tall, 60 kilograms in weight and of thin build. He has a sharp face with yellow complexion and short white hair. He was last seen wearing a blue jacket, black trousers, black shoes and carrying a light brown bag. Anyone who knows the whereabouts of the missing man or may have seen him is urged to contact the Regional Missing Person Unit of Kowloon West on 3661 8036 or 9020 6542 or email to rmpu-kw@police.gov.hk, or contact any police station

Ends/Tuesday, February 18, 2025Issued at HKT 16:37

NNNN

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Missing boy in Kwai Chung located

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Missing boy in Kwai Chung located
Missing boy in Kwai Chung located
*********************************

A boy who went missing in Kwai Chung has been located. Ma Kin-hei, aged 14, went missing after he was last seen at Kwai Chung Interchange on February 9 morning. His family made a report to Police. The boy was located on Tin Yan Road, Tin Shui Wai yesterday (February 17) afternoon. He sustained no injuries and no suspicious circumstances were detected.

Ends/Tuesday, February 18, 2025Issued at HKT 19:04

NNNN

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Advisory Committee on Sports Dispute Resolution of DoJ discusses development direction of sports dispute resolution with SF&OC (with photos)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     â€‹The Advisory Committee on Sports Dispute Resolution of the Department of Justice (DoJ), chaired by the Deputy Secretary for Justice, Dr Cheung Kwok-kwan, met with Vice-President of the Sports Federation & Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China (SF&OC) Mr Kenneth Fok and the Honorary Secretary General of the SF&OC, Mr Edgar Yang, today (February 18) to discuss the direction of development of promoting sports dispute resolution in Hong Kong.

     At the meeting, both sides had in-depth exchanges on the latest developments in sports dispute resolution. They also discussed ways to encourage the sports industry to widely adopt alternative dispute resolution mechanisms for handling sports disputes in the spirit of embracing change and boldly pursuing reforms.

     Dr Cheung said that, with a view to enhancing the local sports dispute resolution landscape, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government has been actively engaging with key stakeholders and understands that the industry is keen to have a neutral, fair and efficient mechanism to handle and resolve sports disputes. As announced in “The Chief Executive’s 2024 Policy Address”, the Government will explore establishing a sports dispute resolution system to promote the sustainable development of sports in Hong Kong.

     Dr Cheung was pleased to learn that the SF&OC fully supports Hong Kong to leverage its institutional advantages in dispute resolution to develop sports dispute resolution, thereby further consolidating Hong Kong’s status as a centre for international legal and dispute resolution services in the Asia-Pacific region.

     He said that the Government and the Advisory Committee are carrying out the preparatory work for a pilot scheme on sports dispute resolution at full steam. He sincerely thanked the SF&OC for its valuable advice on the implementation of the pilot scheme, especially regarding the specific requirements for selecting dispute resolution institutions, the fields of disputes suitable for resolution through mediation or arbitration, and the fee structure. The two sides also exchanged views on the potential for future collaboration, including promoting awareness and providing education to national sports associations and local athletes on the use of alternative dispute resolution in handling sports disputes, as well as encouraging retired athletes to participate in sports dispute mediator and arbitrator training.

     Dr Cheung said that the Advisory Committee will continue to actively engage with major stakeholders, gathering and listening to feedback from all sectors of the community, with a view to formulating a specific mechanism and arrangement for the pilot scheme. He expressed hope that the pilot scheme will be launched within this year to promote the wider use of sports dispute resolution in Hong Kong.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by SJ at opening ceremony of National Training Course for Talents Handling Foreign-related Arbitration (Hong Kong) (English only)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Speech by SJ at opening ceremony of National Training Course for Talents Handling Foreign-related Arbitration (Hong Kong) (English only)
Speech by SJ at opening ceremony of National Training Course for Talents Handling Foreign-related Arbitration (Hong Kong) (English only)
******************************************************************************************

Following is the speech by the Secretary for Justice, Mr Paul Lam, SC, at the opening ceremony of the National Training Course for Talents Handling Foreign-related Arbitration (Hong Kong) today (February 18): Director Yang (Director of Bureau of Public Legal Services Administration of Ministry of Justice, Mr Yang Xiangbin), Secretary Jiang (Council Chair of the China University of Political Science and Law, Mr Jiang Zeting), Director Liu (Director of China Legal Service (H.K.) Limited, Ms Liu Changchun), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, Good afternoon, and a warm welcome to you all to the National Training Course for Talents Handling Foreign-related Arbitration (Hong Kong). It is my pleasure to address such an accomplished gathering of professionals in foreign-related arbitration. The Course This Course is the first specialised training programme on arbitration under the Hong Kong International Legal Talents Training Academy. I would like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt gratitude to the Ministry of Justice and the China University of Political Science and Law and also the China Legal Service (H.K.) Limited for their unwavering support in making this Course a reality. This Course in fact marks an important milestone to implement the record of meeting between the Ministry of Justice and our Department signed in July 2023 when Ms He Rong visited Hong Kong, to further deepen exchanges and co-operation on talent nurturing and legal and dispute resolution services between the Mainland and Hong Kong. To contribute to the national strategy of developing foreign-related rule of law, it is our collective goal to cultivate a team of foreign-related arbitration professionals with a global vision, good understanding of international rules, and capability in providing specialised services in the cross-border legal service market. This Course will provide a comprehensive overview of arbitration in Hong Kong, including comparative analyses with the Mainland and international frameworks. In addition to the informative lectures, there will be exchange sessions with arbitration institutions, professional legal bodies, and visits to barristers’ chambers, international law firms and also court visits, during which participants will have the chance to interact directly with experienced legal professionals, and gain first-hand experience of the legal and arbitration practice in Hong Kong. I hope that by the end of this Course, you will have developed a deeper understanding of international arbitration and its intricacies, and the various topics that we will explore together. We are truly privileged to have a distinguished line-up of speakers who are prominent practitioners in the field of arbitration. I am confident that their expertise, insights, and practical experiences can be effectively applied and incorporated into practices. As talent handling foreign-related arbitration with different backgrounds, each of you brings a unique perspective to this Course. The diversity of experiences in this room is a tremendous asset that enriches our discussions and learning experience. In this regard, I invite you to actively engage in discussions, raise questions that come to mind, and share your thoughts. This Course offers more than just an opportunity to learn from our esteemed speakers; it is also about fostering an interactive learning atmosphere where we can all benefit from each other’s experiences and perspectives. Furthermore, the lectures in this Course are primarily conducted in English. English is one of the official languages in Hong Kong, and is frequently the language of choice due to its global prevalence in business and legal matters. Many arbitration proceedings are conducted in English, particularly those involving international parties. As a bridge between East and West, Hong Kong’s bilingual proficiency facilitates cross-border transactions and dispute resolution, making it an attractive venue for international arbitration. By engaging with the lectures and course materials in English, you will have the opportunity to practise English in legal and business contexts, unlocking unparalleled opportunities for advancement for yourselves in the field of global arbitration. Arbitration in Hong Kong In fact, a significant number of our legal and dispute resolution professionals are bilingual, or even multilingual, and many are qualified in multiple jurisdictions. This ensures that that parties involved in arbitration can readily find suitable representation or arbitrators for their proceedings. Hong Kong is a leading global hub for international arbitration, and one of the most preferred seats of international arbitrations worldwide. With the strong support from the Central People’s Government, the National 14th Five-Year Plan, the Belt and Road Initiative and the Outline Development Plan for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) all explicitly endorse Hong Kong’s development into a centre for international legal and dispute resolution services in the Asia-Pacific region. While Hong Kong legal practitioners are trained in the common law, many have developed significant expertise and experience in handling issues involving Mainland elements. In particular, since 2020, the Central Authority has launched a pilot scheme permitting eligible Hong Kong and Macao legal practitioners to practise civil and commercial matters in nine Mainland cities in the GBA after passing the GBA Legal Professional Examination, and completed some practical training. While we are confident in the depth and breadth of Hong Kong’s existing legal talent pool, participation of overseas professionals in international arbitrations conducted in Hong Kong is essential. The nationalities or qualifications of arbitrators or legal representatives are not restricted in any way under our Arbitration Ordinance. In other words, clients are completely free to choose their preferred arbitrators or legal representatives. We have put in place a scheme to further facilitate the participation of non-Hong Kong residents in arbitral proceedings on a short-term basis by offering immigration convenience, enabling all visitors to come and participate in arbitral proceedings in Hong Kong without any employment visa as arbitrators, counsel, and factual or expert witnesses. Furthermore, two measures are introduced to the CEPA Agreement on Trade in Services to facilitate Hong Kong investors. First of all, Hong Kong-invested enterprises registered in the pilot cities of the GBA may adopt Hong Kong law or Macao law as the applicable law in their contracts. Secondly, Hong Kong-invested enterprises registered in the nine Mainland cities in the GBA may choose Hong Kong or Macao as the seat of arbitration. The expansion of these measures will not only facilitate the internationalisation of the GBA’s business environment and benefit the collaborative development of its legal and dispute resolution sectors, but also, more importantly, encourage Mainland enterprises to leverage Hong Kong as a springboard for overseas expansion and empower foreign investors to utilise Hong Kong as a gateway to the Mainland. In recent years, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government has actively pursued a range of initiatives to enhance its arbitration-related legal framework, for example the funding options for arbitration, attract leading international arbitration institutions to establish regional offices in Hong Kong, and host major international legal and dispute resolution events, with an aim of promoting Hong Kong as a premier centre for international legal and arbitration services. Looking ahead, we anticipate sustained growth in demand for HK’s legal and dispute resolution services, especially in the GBA and in the Belt and Road region, and hence there is a growing need for nurturing talent for a sustainable supply of legal and dispute resolution professionals. The Hong Kong International Legal Talents Training Academy In this connection, the Chief Executive announced in his 2023 and 2024 Policy Address to establish the Hong Kong International Legal Talents Training Academy. Through the Academy, Hong Kong can build on the unique advantages and position in connecting our country to the rest of the world at the interface of the rule of law, contributing to the country’s efforts in training foreign-related legal talent and actively participating in the next decade of the Belt and Road Initiative as a capacity building hub. The Academy will make good use of Hong Kong’s bilingual common law system and international status, and organise practical training courses, seminars, international exchange programmes to promote exchanges among talent in the regions along the Belt and Road. Training programmes will cover topics including international law, common law, civil law and national legal systems of other Belt and Road countries. As this Course is the Academy’s first training programme in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice, we value your insights and encourage you to share your honest feedback on what worked well and what could be improved in this Course. Your input will directly shape the future of our training programs, ensuring they meet the evolving needs of the arbitration community. Conclusion Ladies and gentlemen, this Course is not just about acquiring knowledge about international arbitration; it is also about connecting with fellow professionals in Hong Kong and finding out why Hong Kong is a prime venue for dispute resolution in the world. I also encourage you to discover all that Hong Kong has to offer, from its bustling streets to its stunning views, before and after all the lectures and visits on each day. In closing, I wish to reiterate my appreciation to the Ministry of Justice of the People’s Republic of China, the China University of Political Science and Law, the China Legal Service (H.K.) Limited, and to each and everyone of you for taking part in this Course. I look forward to the inspiring and productive training in the coming week. Thank you.

Ends/Tuesday, February 18, 2025Issued at HKT 13:39

NNNN

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI: Diamondback Energy, Inc. Announces Midland Basin Acquisition
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

MIDLAND, Texas, Feb. 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Diamondback Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ: FANG) (“Diamondback” or “the Company”) today announced that it has entered into a definitive purchase agreement to acquire certain subsidiaries of Double Eagle IV Midco, LLC (“Double Eagle”) in exchange for approximately 6.9 million shares of Diamondback common stock and $3 billion of cash, subject to customary adjustments (the “Double Eagle Acquisition”). The cash portion of this transaction is expected to be funded through a combination of cash on hand, borrowings under the Company’s credit facility and/or proceeds from term loans and senior notes offerings.

As part of this agreement, Diamondback and Double Eagle have also agreed to accelerate development on a portion of Diamondback’s non-core southern Midland Basin acreage. This acceleration is expected to bring forward Net Asset Value (“NAV”) to Diamondback by developing Diamondback’s lower quality acreage at a faster pace than current expectations. As a result, Diamondback expects significant Free Cash Flow growth in 2026 and beyond with minimal capital deployment through this accelerated development plan.

Diamondback is also committing today to sell at least $1.5 billion of non-core assets to accelerate pro forma debt reduction in order to maintain its strong balance sheet. Diamondback expects to reduce net debt to $10 billion and, long term, maintain leverage of $6 billion to $8 billion.

“Double Eagle is the most attractive asset remaining in the Midland Basin,” stated Travis Stice, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Diamondback. “With 407 locations adjacent to our core position, this largely undeveloped asset adds high-quality inventory that immediately competes for capital. Additionally, we see value uplift to our existing inventory as acreage overlap allows for meaningful lateral length extensions and infrastructure synergies. We look forward to seamlessly implementing our industry leading cost and operational structure on this differentiated asset.”

Mr. Stice continued, “The Permian Basin continues to consolidate rapidly. We have worked tirelessly over the last thirteen years to position Diamondback to have the longest duration of high quality, low-breakeven inventory; a position we are solidifying with today’s announcement. While we are adding a small amount of leverage to complete this trade, we are confident that we can quickly reduce debt both naturally through our consistent and growing Free Cash Flow and through our commitment to sell at least $1.5 billion of non-core assets.”

Cody Campbell and John Sellers, Co-Chief Executive Officers of Double Eagle, commented, “We are excited to announce our agreement with Diamondback. We believe our team has built a truly standout asset that further increases Diamondback’s high-quality inventory. It was important to us that we maintain the stewardship of this asset going forward not only with a world-class Midland operator but also a group that shares our core values and understands the importance of community impact in West Texas.”

Asset Highlights: Consolidated Scale in the Midland Basin
- Approximately 40,000 net acres in the core of the Midland Basin
- Estimated run-rate production of approximately 27 MBo/d (69% oil)
- $200 million of capital expenditures anticipated in 2025 at current Midland Basin well costs of $555 to $605 per foot
- Extends pro forma inventory life in the core of the Midland Basin
- 68% of the asset is undeveloped with 407 estimated gross (342 net) horizontal locations in primary development targets with an average lateral length of approximately >11,000’
- 44 gross upside locations primarily located in emerging zones
Transaction Highlights
- Valued at approximately 5.2x 2025 EBITDA
- Enhances expected pro forma 2026 Free Cash Flow per share by 5%+
- Immediately accretive to all relevant financial metrics including Cash Flow per share, Free Cash Flow per share and NAV per share
Timing and Approvals

Diamondback expects the transaction to close on April 1, 2025, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions and regulatory approval.

Advisors

TPH&Co, the energy business of Perella Weinberg Partners, is serving as financial advisor to Diamondback. Kirkland & Ellis LLP is acting as legal advisor to Diamondback.

RBC Capital Markets, Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC and J.P. Morgan Securities LLC are acting as financial advisors to Double Eagle. Vinson & Elkins LLP is acting as legal advisor to Double Eagle.

About Diamondback

Diamondback is an independent oil and natural gas company headquartered in Midland, Texas focused on the acquisition, development, exploration and exploitation of unconventional, onshore oil and natural gas reserves in the Permian Basin in West Texas. For more information, please visit www.diamondbackenergy.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act and Section 21E of the Exchange Act, which involve risks, uncertainties, and assumptions. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, including statements regarding Diamondback’s: future performance; business strategy; future operations (including drilling plans and capital plans); estimates and projections of production, revenues, losses, costs, expenses, returns, cash flow, and financial position; reserve estimates and its ability to replace or increase reserves; anticipated benefits or other effects of strategic transactions (including the pending drop down transaction with Viper Energy, Inc., the Double Eagle Acquisition and other acquisitions or divestitures); and plans and objectives of management (including plans for future cash flow from operations) are forward-looking statements. When used in this news release, the words “aim,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “forecast,” “future,” “guidance,” “intend,” “may,” “model,” “outlook,” “plan,” “positioned,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “seek,” “should,” “target,” “will,” “would,” and similar expressions (including the negative of such terms) as they relate to Diamondback are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain such identifying words. Although Diamondback believes that the expectations and assumptions reflected in its forward-looking statements are reasonable as and when made, they involve risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict and, in many cases, beyond Diamondback’s control. Accordingly, forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and Diamondback’s actual outcomes could differ materially from what Diamondback has expressed in its forward-looking statements.

Factors that could cause the outcomes to differ materially include (but are not limited to) the following: changes in supply and demand levels for oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids, and the resulting impact on the price for those commodities; the impact of public health crises, including epidemic or pandemic diseases and any related company or government policies or actions; actions taken by the members of OPEC+ and Russia affecting the production and pricing of oil, as well as other domestic and global political, economic, or diplomatic developments, including any impact of the ongoing war in Ukraine and the Israel-Hamas war on the global energy markets and geopolitical stability; instability in the financial markets; trade wars; inflationary pressures; higher interest rates and their impact on the cost of capital; regional supply and demand factors, including delays, curtailment delays or interruptions of production, or governmental orders, rules or regulations that impose production limits; federal and state legislative and regulatory initiatives relating to hydraulic fracturing, including the effect of existing and future laws and governmental regulations; physical and transition risks relating to climate change; those risks described in Item 1A of Diamondback’s Annual Report on Form 10-K, filed with the SEC on February 22, 2024, and those risks disclosed in its subsequent filings on Forms 10-Q and 8-K, which can be obtained free of charge on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov and Diamondback’s website at www.diamondbackenergy.com/investors.

In light of these factors, the events anticipated by Diamondback’s forward-looking statements may not occur at the time anticipated or at all. Moreover, Diamondback operates in a very competitive and rapidly changing environment and new risks emerge from time to time. Diamondback cannot predict all risks, nor can it assess the impact of all factors on its business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated by any forward-looking statements it may make. Accordingly, you should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this news release or, if earlier, as of the date they were made. Diamondback does not intend to, and disclaims any obligation to, update or revise any forward-looking statements unless required by applicable law.

Diamondback Investor Contact:

Adam Lawlis
+1 432.221.7467
alawlis@diamondbackenergy.com

The MIL Network –
February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Defense Ministry Spokesperson’s Remarks on Recent Media Queries Concerning the Military on February 14, 2025 2025-02-18 On the afternoon of February 14, 2025, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang answered recent media queries concerning the military.
Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense 2
On the afternoon of February 14, 2025, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang answered recent media queries concerning the military.

Journalist: Recently, a landslide occurred in Junlian County, Yibin City, Sichuan Province. Officers and soldiers of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) and the People’s Armed Police Force (PAP) immediately engaged in disaster relief efforts. Please tell us more about it.

Zhang Xiaogang: A landslide recently occurred in Junlian County, Yibin City, Sichuan Province. A disaster is an order for action. The PLA and PAP resolutely acted on President Xi’s important instructions on emergency rescue and disaster relief. They responded swiftly, stepped forward and conducted rescue operations with all-out efforts. So far, a total of 326 personnel have been deployed to a range of tasks, including search and rescue, relocation of affected residents, road clearance, hidden-danger assessment, and supplies transportation. They have also assisted the local government in evacuating and relocating over 230 people. The Chinese military remains steadfast in following the instructions of the Party Central Committee, the Central Military Commission and President Xi. We faithfully uphold the fundamental purpose of serving the people wholeheartedly and stay ready to support local disaster relief efforts at any time. We are committed to safeguarding the lives and property of the people and fulfilling all tasks entrusted by the Party and the people.

Journalist: It is reported that President Xi Jinping, chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC), recently signed an order to issue the revised Regulations on Scientific Research Related to Military Equipment. Please provide us with more information about this.

Zhang Xiaogang: The revised Regulations on Scientific Research and Development Related to Military Equipment has five features. First, it takes the generation of combat capability as the sole criteria, and systematically reformed the processes and procudures for overall planning, project approval, and process management related to scientific research and development (R&D) of military equipment. Second, it requires advanced management concepts to be applied to both organs responsible for equipment R&D planning and units undertaking specific projects. This aims to improve the capacity for independent innovation, and provide more sources of growth in new quality combat capabilities. Third, it optimizes the classification and approval models for equipment pre-research, equipment R&D and production, and comprehensive equipment research, providing flexible and practical options for project management. Fourth, it systematically clarifies the principles and specific measures for quality control, cost management, acceptance and evaluation, and outcome management, in support of high-quality development of equipment R&D. Fifth, it establishes a comprehensive framework for the supervision and regulation of equipment R&D. It also specifies industry-specific supervision methods, inspection approaches and rectification measures. The Regulations will help enable higher quality and efficiency and stronger vitality of innovation in equipment R&D, so as to better support combat preparedness.

Journalist: The PLA Navy recently sent a task group to Pakistan to attend the multinational maritime exercise AMAN 2025. This is the first international joint exercise the Chinese military has participated in this year. Please further brief us on the exercise.

Zhang Xiaogang: At the invitation of the Pakistani military, a PLAN task group comprising of the guided-missile destroyer PLANS Baotou and the comprehensive supply ship PLANS Gaoyouhu participated in the multinational maritime exercise AMAN 2025 from February 6 to 11. During the onshore phase of the exercise, the task group and other participating naval forces held planning conferences, professional exchanges and open ship events. During the maritime phase, drills were conducted on joint counter-piracy operations, search and rescue and air defense. The exercise facilitated exchanges between the PLAN and other participating naval troops, and demonstrated a shared commitment to maritime security. The Chinese military will continue to live up to our international responsibilities and obligations, and contribute to world peace and stability with concrete actions.

Journalist: The US Indo-Pacific Command recently said that the Typhon mid-range missile system had been relocated from the Laoag airfield to another location on the island of Luzon, and that the relocation, however, was not an indication that the batteries would be permanently deployed in the Philippines. The Philippine side said that it would return the Typhon system to the US so long as China stops claiming its territory, harassing its fishermen and attacking its ships. May I have your comment?

Zhang Xiaogang: The Chinese side has made clear multiple times our firm opposition against the US deployment of the mid-range missile system in the Philippines. The Typhon missile system is a strategic asset and an offensive weapon. The Philippine side has repeatedly gone back on its words and brought in the system to cater to the US side. Such decision would only place its national security and defense in the hands of others, and lead to geopolitical confrontation and risks of arms race in the region. It’s like holding a candle to the devil and playing the jackal to the tiger.

As we all know, the territory of the Philippines is defined by a series of international treaties, including the 1898 Treaty of Peace between the United States of America and the Kingdom of Spain, the 1900 Treaty between the United States of America and the Kingdom of Spain for Cession of Outlying Islands of the Philippines, and the 1930 Convention between His Majesty in Respect of the United Kingdom and the President of the United States regarding the Boundary between the State of North Borneo and the Philippine Archipelago. China’s Nansha Qundao and Huangyan Dao fall outside the Philippine territory. It’s legitimate, lawful and beyond reproach for the Chinese side to conduct law-enforcement activities in relevant waters.

By using the deployment of Typhon as a bargaining chip on the South China Sea issue, the Philippine side is selling out its own national security, putting the well-being of its people and regional peace and stability at grave risk. Such behavior is ridiculous and dangerous. We require the Philippine side to recognize the high sensitivity and severe consequences of this issue, remove the Typhon missile system as soon as possible to honor its open promises, and return to the right track of dialogue and consultations at an early date. The Chinese side will continue to take necessary measures to resolutely counter provocations and infringements and safeguard our territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests.

Journalist: It was reported that the US confirmed that Article V of the US-Japan Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security applies to China’s Diaoyu Dao during a phone call between Japanese Minister of Defense and US Secretary of Defense. What’s your comment?

Zhang Xiaogang: Diaoyu Dao and its affiliated islands are China’s inherent territory. No matter what the US and Japan say or do, they can neither change this fact nor shake China’s resolve to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity. The Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security between the US and Japan is a product of the Cold War. Military and security cooperation between the US and Japan should not target any third party, let alone undermine regional development. 2025 marks the 80th year of the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War. We hope the Japanese side will take lessons from history, demonstrate its determination to pursue peaceful development through concrete actions, and make more efforts to enhance mutual trust between countries and promote regional peace and stability.

Journalist: It is reported that after being sworn in as the new US Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth made clear that the US would restore the warrior ethos and work with allies and partners to deter aggression in the Asia-Pacific by China. What’s your comment?

Zhang Xiaogang: We firmly oppose the groundless accusation made by the US side. China pursues a national defense policy that is defensive in nature and a military strategy of active defense. The Chinese military is a staunch force for peace. As a peace-loving nation, China never engages in aggression or expansion. But we will never give up our legitimate rights and interests, and will take firm countermeasures against threats and challenges.

I want to emphasize that major country competition should not be the underlying logic of the times. A steady, sound and sustained China-US diplomatic and defense relationship serves the common interests of the two countries and meets the general expectation of the international community. Standing at a new starting point, we hope the US will work with China on the principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation, to deepen state-to-state and military-to-military exchanges and cooperation, so as to inject certainty and positive energy into the world.

Journalist: It is reported that US and Japanese leaders met with each other and issued a joint statement, which emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and opposed any attempt to unilaterally change the status quo by force or coercion. Recently, the destroyer USS Johnson and the oceanographic survey ship USNS Bowditch transited the Taiwan Strait. What’s your comment?

Zhang Xiaogang: The relevant contents in the US-Japan Joint Leaders’ Statement grossly interfered in China’s internal affairs and made unfounded smears and accusations against China. The Chinese side is strongly dissatisfied with and firmly opposed to that. Regarding the passage of the US vessels through the Taiwan Strait, the PLA Eastern Theater Command has already made a response.

I want to point out that Taiwan is China’s Taiwan. Any military provocation of the US will not change this fact. On the contrary, such US actions expose its hypocrisy and double standard to the international community, and bolster the resolve and will of the Chinese people to safeguard our national sovereignty and realize national reunification. The PLA will continue to strengthen combat readiness, resolutely fight against secession and interference, and firmly safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

MIL OSI China News –
February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: UPDATE: Concern for welfare – Douglas Daly

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Northern Territory Police Force have located the body of the 89-year-old male who was reported missing yesterday afternoon in Douglas Daly.

Around 6:05pm, police located the man deceased a short distance from where his vehicle was found abandoned and washed off the Stray Creek Crossing on Fleming Road.

The circumstances are believed to be non-suspicious.

The Search and Rescue Section and Daly River police would like to thank the members of the community for their assistance in this operation and our thoughts are with the family of the man.

MIL OSI News –

February 18, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Appointment of a new Senior Judicial Commissioner of the Judicial Appointments Commission: February 2025
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

His Majesty The King, on the advice of the Lord Chancellor, has approved the appointment of a new Commissioner to the Judicial Appointments Commission.
His Majesty The King has approved the appointment of Upper Tribunal Judge Clive Lane as a Senior Judicial Commissioner of the Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC) for three years commencing 1 May 2025.

The JAC is an independent body that selects candidates for judicial office in courts and tribunals in England and Wales, and for some tribunals with a UK-wide jurisdiction.

JAC Commissioners are appointed, under Schedule 12(1) of the Constitutional Reform Act 2005, by His Majesty The King on the recommendation of the Lord Chancellor.

The appointment of Upper Tribunal Judge Clive Lane was made in accordance with Regulation 11 of the Judicial Appointment Commission Regulations 2013.

Biography

Upper Tribunal Judge Clive Lane was admitted as a solicitor in 1985 and was in private practice until 2001. He was a Legal Chair of the Appeals Service (now Social Entitlement Chamber) from 1999 until 2007. He was appointed a Deputy District Judge (Civil) in 2001. He served as an Immigration Judge from 2001 until 2009 when he was appointed a Judge of the Upper Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber).

Since 2021, he has been authorised to sit as a Judge of the High Court (Family Division). In 2024, he was appointed a Justice of the Court of Appeal of the British Indian Ocean Territory.

Share this page

The following links open in a new tab

Share on Facebook (opens in new tab)

Share on Twitter (opens in new tab)

Updates to this page

Published 18 February 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
February 18, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Severn Trent bring exciting job opportunities to Coventry

Source: City of Coventry

It’s estimated that there’s some 1.5m people above the age of 16 currently unemployed across the UK, with many of those across the Midlands.

Severn Trent’s commitment to change that statistic is seeing it create opportunities to connect people to jobs in Coventry.

Working with Coventry City Council, the company is bringing back it’s Big Boost for Coventry – where it promises jobs, skills, training and work opportunities for those in the city and beyond.

The company is to be joined by employers such as British Army, EON, National Gas, Warwickshire Police, NHS and more – following the success of its first event that saw over 500 people through the doors at the Transport Museum.

The event, that’s free to enter and will take place on Thursday 6th March 2025 – between 10am and 2pm at Coventry Transport Museum.

As well as employers with live jobs, there’s free cv workshops, virtual reality interview practice, and other employability training and other support available, such as help with water bills and cost of living support.

Councillor Dr Kindy Sandhu, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills said: “It’s fantastic that Severn Trent want to bring another jobs fair back to the city. The last event was a huge success, so we hope to build on that for 2025. We want to make sure our residents are equipped with the right skills to go onto pursue future careers in and around the city. The jobs fair is definitely something that will help support this.

“I encourage anyone looking for support with interview skills, CV writing, confidence building or seeking work opportunities to go along.”

To support the event the museum is also offering a massively discounted day rate to the museum of only £5 for anyone who attends. Where it’s usually £15 for the year.

Adam Stevens, Societal Programme Officer, at Severn Trent said: “Our first event in Coventry was hugely successful, so we had to plan and bring back another session quickly to bring more opportunities to the city. We’re a big employer in Coventry and know our responsibility in creating opportunities and connecting people to them. We want people to come out and look at what jobs are available, as well as other opportunities like apprenticeships and free employability training.

“We’re looking forward to seeing many local people there taking advantage of some of the biggest employers together in one room to help boost employment in Coventry and make use of our free training sessions can get people job ready.”

The event builds on the company’s work in region, where it first launched a 10-year plan to support 100,000 people who are at risk of water poverty by tackling one of the underlying causes of poverty.

The company has been partnering with local schools, hosting jobs fairs, as well as delivering mentoring to prison leavers – in its commitment to help support those from marginalised groups with employment opportunities.

To register your interest to this free event, visit Severn Trent’s Big Boost for Cov Jobs Fair Tickets, Thu 6 Mar 2025 at 10:00 | Eventbrite

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

February 18, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mayor urges more businesses to donate old IT equipment and help digitally excluded Londoners get online
Source: Mayor of London
- Get Online London has reached more than 100,000 digitally excluded Londoners, thanks to 1,106 Digital Inclusion Hubs across the capital
- Donating mobile phones, laptops and other IT equipment helps provide digital access for more Londoners
- Mayor has donated over 700 City Hall devices and is calling on other organisations to follow suit
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has today called on businesses and public bodies to help more digitally excluded Londoners get online by donating unwanted mobile phones, laptops and other IT equipment.

More than 100,000 Londoners have already been supported by Get Online London, the capital’s first ever digital inclusion service set up by City Hall and the London Office of Technology and Innovation (LOTI), to ensure every Londoner has access to essential digital connectivity, skills, devices and support.

Digital exclusion is a major issue for many Londoners, impacting people’s health, education and work outcomes. It can prevent people from fully participating in society as many essential services linked to vital areas including education, employment and social interaction are increasingly reliant on online platforms.

Around two million residents across the capital still have very limited digital engagement, such as lacking their own device or facing difficulties with online services. Over 250,000 are completely offline, with no internet access at all. [1]

Get Online London helps those across the capital who are digitally excluded by giving people the tools and knowledge to get online and participate in the digital world.

Working in partnership with the UK’s leading digital inclusion charity Good Things Foundation and the LOTI, Get Online London has established 1,106 Digital Inclusion Hubs across every borough in London, providing free internet for Londoners who couldn’t otherwise afford to get online, which have so far distributed 88,500 data packages

Working in partnership with the UK’s leading digital inclusion charity Good Things Foundation and the LOTI, Get Online London has established a National Databank [2] across every borough, providing free internet for Londoners who couldn’t otherwise afford to get online, which have so far distributed 88,500 data packages.

The innovative service ensures donated digital equipment is securely and sustainably refurbished, so it can then be given to those in need. As well as providing 7,119 devices to get Londoners online, it is helping organisations that donate to reduce e-waste and boost London’s progress towards achieving net zero.

The Mayor has recently signed an agreement to donate more than 700 City Hall devices and he is calling on businesses and public bodies to join City Hall, the Metropolitan Police Service, Thames Water, London Councils and many London borough councils already contributing to Get Online London.

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “Get Online London has been a huge success and I’m really proud that we’ve now reached more than 100,000 Londoners, working alongside the London Office of Technology and Innovation and the Good Things Foundation to tackle digital exclusion.

“Demand for devices still far outstrips supply, so we must do more. That’s why I’m calling on businesses and public bodies to donate mobile phones, laptops and other IT kit to help us fix the digital divide and ensure access for all. Devices an organisation no longer needs can be essential lifelines for others, and together we can build a better and fairer London for everyone.”

Genta Hajri, Digital Innovation Delivery Lead, London Office of Technology and Innovation, said: “The ability to get online is such a basic and increasingly vital part of being fully included in society: to access education, work, look after our health and wellbeing and to connect with friends and family.

“We’re delighted by the progress that’s already been achieved with Get Online London and encourage organisations from the public and private sectors to support this work to ensure no Londoner is left behind.”

Helen Milner OBE, Group Chief Executive Officer, Good Things Foundation, said: “Thousands of Londoners are still offline. They are unable to participate in everyday life – from accessing essential services, to finding work and connecting with their loved ones – leaving them feeling disconnected from the digital world we live in.

“Businesses who donate their disused devices and equipment to Get Online London, London’s Digital Inclusion Service, are helping to tackle digital exclusion with zero tech waste and giving people the opportunity to get online. Help solve one of today’s biggest problems, and together we can fix the digital divide for good.”

To find out more about how to donate devices and support Get Online London, please visit: https://loti.london/get-online-london/
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
February 18, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Arbitration training ceremony held

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

Secretary for Justice Paul Lam today attended the opening ceremony of the National Training Course for Talents Handling Foreign-related Arbitration (Hong Kong), which is organised by the Hong Kong International Legal Talents Training Academy and the Ministry of Justice.

As he addressed those gathered at the event, Mr Lam highlighted that the Government spares no effort in implementing several measures, including improving the legal framework related to arbitration, attracting globally renowned arbitral institutions to establish a presence in Hong Kong, and hosting international conferences on legal and dispute resolution services to promote the city’s international legal and arbitration services.

He expressed the hope that the training course will facilitate exchanges to bridge the arbitration systems of Hong Kong and the Mainland, and deepen participants’ understanding of arbitration and dispute resolution in Hong Kong so that they can put what they have learnt into practice in future.

The two-week training course, which commenced yesterday, provides a comprehensive introduction of the system and practice of arbitration in Hong Kong to more than 80 participants comprising Mainland in-house counsel, experienced arbitrators, lawyers and arbitration practitioners through lectures, exchanges and visits.

Speakers include experienced Hong Kong legal professionals and members of the Hong Kong International Legal Talents Training Expert Committee.

Before the opening ceremony, Mr Lam signed a new legal exchange and co-operation arrangement with the China University of Political Science & Law to replace the arrangement signed by the two sides in 2016.

Noting that legal exchanges and co-operation between the two sides have been achieving progress, he said that the new co-operation arrangement will enhance mutual collaboration on nurturing foreign-related legal talents and promote the rule of law, as well as exchanges on legal issues such as international arbitration, mediation and the national development strategy of the Belt & Road Initiative.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 18, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Sports dispute resolution discussed

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The Advisory Committee on Sports Dispute Resolution of the Department of Justice (DoJ), chaired by Deputy Secretary for Justice Cheung Kwok-kwan, met the Sports Federation & Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China (SF&OC) today to discuss the direction of development of promoting sports dispute resolution in Hong Kong.

At the meeting, both sides had in-depth exchanges on the latest developments in sports dispute resolution. They also discussed ways to encourage the sports industry to widely adopt alternative dispute resolution mechanisms for handling sports disputes in the spirit of embracing change and boldly pursuing reforms.

Mr Cheung said that, with a view to enhancing the local sports dispute resolution landscape, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government has been actively engaging with key stakeholders and understands that the industry is keen to have a neutral, fair and efficient mechanism to handle and resolve sports disputes.

Mr Cheung was pleased to learn that the SF&OC fully supports Hong Kong to leverage its institutional advantages in dispute resolution to develop sports dispute resolution, thereby further consolidating the city’s status as a centre for international legal and dispute resolution services in the Asia-Pacific region.

He pointed out that the Hong Kong SAR Government and the advisory committee are carrying out the preparatory work for a pilot scheme on sports dispute resolution at full steam.

Additionally, he thanked the SF&OC for its valuable advice on the implementation of the pilot scheme, especially regarding the specific requirements for selecting dispute resolution institutions, the fields of disputes suitable for resolution through mediation or arbitration, and the fee structure.

The two sides also exchanged views on the potential for future collaboration, including promoting awareness and providing education to national sports associations and local athletes on the use of alternative dispute resolution in handling sports disputes, as well as encouraging retired athletes to participate in sports dispute mediator and arbitrator training.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 18, 2025