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  • MIL-OSI: Business aviation leader Luxaviation and Haffner Energy join forces to accelerate SAF production and promotion

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Business aviation leader Luxaviation and Haffner Energy join forces to accelerate SAF production and promotion

    Luxaviation signals interest in active role in SAF-dedicated entity SAF Zero

    Vitry-le-François, France / Luxembourg (June 18, 2025, 8:00 am CEST) – 

    SAF Zero, a Haffner Energy initiative, is gaining momentum: Luxaviation Group, a leading global operator in the business aviation sector, is exploring an active role in the new entity, both companies announced today at the International Paris Air Show. Luxaviation potential involvement could take the form of cash funding to finance initial development activities, support in the strategic definition and global visibility as well as offtake agreements in relevant SAF Zero projects such as Paris-Vatry SAF. 
    SAF Zero is dedicated to fast-tracking the production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) by establishing an investment and project development platform that brings key stakeholders together. Combining Haffner Energy’s proprietary technologies and Luxaviation’s experience and strategic positioning in the aviation sector, SAF Zero is to finance and develop industrial SAF production projects. Operating under an exclusive license, SAF Zero will supply Haffner Energy’s technologies to third parties under license agreements, designing, delivering and potentially operating key equipment based on these technologies. 
    “We are thrilled to collaborate with Luxaviation, a powerful partner working alongside us to position SAF Zero as a cornerstone of Europe’s clean aviation strategy ,” said Philippe Haffner, co-founder and CEO of Haffner Energy.
    France-based Haffner Energy relies on its 32-year experience to design, manufacture, supply, license, and operate proprietary disruptive clean fuels solutions, including critical technologies for pathway-agnostic SAF production, using all types of residual biomass and municipal waste. The company has already announced the development of a number of SAF projects, notably Paris-Vatry SAF in France, where full scale production is expected to be reached by 2030 when the next stage of the European SAF mandate kicks in.  
    As a founding partner of SAF Zero, Haffner Energy will provide engineering support and supply of critical equipment as needed for the projects developed by SAF Zero.
    “At Luxaviation, we believe that the future of aviation must be sustainable, and that requires bold partnerships and innovative solutions. Our collaboration with Haffner Energy and our interest in SAF Zero reflect our commitment to accelerating the adoption of sustainable aviation fuel and driving meaningful change across the industry. By combining our operational expertise with Haffner Energy’s cutting-edge technology, we are taking a decisive step toward a cleaner, more responsible future for aviation,” said Patrick Hansen, CEO of Luxaviation Group. 
    Luxaviation operates one of the largest fleets of private aircraft worldwide. It is actively committed to the decarbonization of aviation through a three-pronged strategy: improving fuel efficiency; reducing emissions by actively increasing SAF use and electrification of ground operations; buying offsets for remaining GHG emissions. Since 2021, Luxaviation’s annual sustainability report tracks progress against targets. In 2023, Luxaviation launched “Go-to-Zero” Investment Fund to foster SAF production. 
    Both Luxaviation and Haffner Energy are members of Project SkyPower, an international CEO-led initiative dedicated to accelerating the development and adoption of SAF. 

    About Haffner Energy
    Haffner Energy designs, manufactures, supplies, and operates biofuel and hydrogen solutions using biomass residues. Its innovative, patented thermolysis technology produces Sustainable Aviation Fuel, as well as renewable gas, hydrogen, and methanol. The company also contributes to regenerating the planet through the co-production of biogenic CO2 and biochar. A company co-founded 32 years ago by Marc and Philippe Haffner, Haffner Energy has been working from the outset to decarbonize industry and all forms of mobility, as well as governments and local communities. More information is available at www.haffner-energy.com.

    About Luxaviation Group
    Headquartered in Luxembourg, Luxaviation Group comprises top-of-the line aviation brands, including Luxaviation, Starspeed, ExecuJet and Paragon, operating across five continents. Services include aircraft management for private and commercial aircraft, private air charter services, and the management and operation of VIP passenger terminals throughout an FBO network of over 110+ facilities worldwide. Luxaviation Group is actively committed to the decarbonization of aviation by supporting the development of sustainable fuels and green infrastructure. More information is available at www.luxaviation.com.

    Media relations
    Haffner Energy
    Laetitia Mailhes
    laetitia.mailhes@haffner-energy.com
    +33 (0)6 07 12 96 76

    Luxaviation Group
    Juliane Thiessen
    Juliane.thiessen@luxaviation.com
    +41 76 356 8251

    Investor relations
    Haffner Energy
    investisseurs@haffner-energy.com 

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Mercanis Secures Over $20 Million in Series A Round

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Berlin, June 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    • The company receives fresh capital from new investors Partech and AVP, as well as from existing investors.
    • Mercanis enables over 40% process cost savings and supports clients such as BASF-Coatings, GASAG, Goldbeck, Wilson, and Brose.
    • The funds will be used to further develop Agentic AI and support the upcoming expansion plans, including into the U.S.

    Berlin, June 18, 2025 – In its latest Series A round, Mercanis, a Berlin-based startup for Agentic-AI procurement solutions, has raised over $20 million. The round was led by new investors Partech and AVP, with additional funding from existing investors, including Signals.VC, Capmont Technology, and Speedinvest. Well-known business angels like Dr. Ulrich Piepel, Dr. Marcell Vollmer, Mirko Novakovic (Instana & Dash0), and Victor Jacobsson (Klarna) continue their support for Mercanis.
    The additional capital will be used to further strengthen the company’s leadership position in Agentic-AI and accelerate its international expansion, including entry into the U.S. market.

    Fabian Heinrich, CEO and Co-Founder of Mercanis, states: “The trust placed in us by both long-standing and new investors is not only a powerful endorsement of our mission, but also a driving force behind our ongoing commitment to excellence. With this funding, we can expand our AI solution and accelerate our international expansion – particularly into the U.S. In times of geopolitical and economic uncertainty, our technology empowers companies far beyond Germany to build more resilient procurement operations that safeguard their supply chains and protect their bottom line.”

    Next-generation AI-powered procurement
    Founded in 2020 by Fabian Heinrich and Moritz Weiermann, Mercanis aims to reshape procurement processes with its Agentic-AI Procurement Suite. The cloud-based platform combines procurement, supplier management, and contract management. Intelligent agents autonomously handle operational tasks, while AI continuously analyzes procurement data to uncover savings opportunities, enhance strategic decisions, and drive measurable results—delivering over 40% process savings, a 2.5x increase in efficiency, and a 12x return on investment. 

    “Mercanis has transformed the way we manage suppliers and execute procurement projects. What used to take days now takes only hours. The automation and transparency help us act faster and make better decisions – especially when multiple stakeholders are involved. It’s a must-have for any procurement team looking to modernize,” says Uwe Kreplin, Head of Procurement at GASAG.

    In addition to GASAG, Mercanis also counts BASF-Coatings, Goldbeck, Wilson, and Brose among its clients.

    Within just a few years, Mercanis has established itself as a trusted partner to multinational firms, with impressive traction across organizations now procuring billions through the platform,” says Philippe Collombel, Founding and General Partner at Partech.

    “We are particularly impressed by the strength of their product and its ability to drive adoption at scale,” adds Magda Poslusny, Principal at Partech. “By automating key procurement processes, Mercanis not only boosts operational efficiency but also drives meaningful cost savings by engaging a broader supplier base. We are confident Mercanis is on track to become a category leader in procurement.”

    About Mercanis:
    Mercanis offers an Agentic-Ai Procurement Suite that covers the entire procurement process – from supplier selection to contract signing. The solution includes four key modules: Spend Analytics, Sourcing & Request Processes (RFx), Supplier Management (SRM), and Contract Management. With the integrated Mercu AI Co-Pilot, repetitive tasks like supplier discovery, risk detection, intake management and offer comparison are automated, leading to significant efficiency improvements and over 40% process savings. Founded in 2020 by Fabian Heinrich and Moritz Weiermann, Mercanis supports prominent clients like BASF-Coatings, GASAG, Goldbeck, Wilson, and Brose in digitizing their procurement processes. The company is based in Berlin and currently employs over 40 people.

    About Partech: 
    Partech is a global tech investment firm headquartered in Paris, with offices in Berlin, Dakar, Dubai, Nairobi, and San Francisco. Partech brings together capital, operational experience, and strategic support to back entrepreneurs from seed to growth stage. Born in San Francisco 40 years ago, today Partech manages €2.5B AUM and a current portfolio of 220 companies, spread across 40 countries and 4 continents.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Israel-Iran war ‘more dangerous than we imagine’, says Middle East Eye editor

    Pacific Media Watch

    The Big Picture Podcast host, New Zealand-Egyptian journalist and author Mohamed Hassan, interviews Middle East Eye editor-in-chief David Hearst about the rapidly unfolding war between Israel and Iran, why the West supports it, and what it threatens to unleash on the global order.

    What does Israel really want to achieve, what options does Iran have to deescalate, and will the United States stop the war, or join it as is being hinted?

    Hearst says the war is “more dangerous than we imagine” and notes that while most Western leadership still backs Israel, there has been a strong shift in world public opinion against Tel Aviv.

    He says Israel has lost most of the world’s support, most of the Global South, most African states, Brazil, South Africa, China and Russia.

    Hearst says the world is witnessing the “cynical tailend of the colonial era” among Western states.


    The era of peace is over.             Video: Middle East Eye

    Iran ‘unlikely to surrender’
    Ali Vaez, the Iran project director at the International Crisis Group, says Iran is unlikely to “surrender to American terms” and that there is a risk the war on Iran could “bring the entire region down”.

    Vaez told Al Jazeera in an interview that US President Donald Trump “provided the green light for Israel to attack Iran” just two days before the president’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, was due to meet with the Iranians in the Oman capital of Muscat.

    Imagine viewing, from the Iranian perspective, Trump giving the go-ahead for the attack while at the same time saying that diplomacy with Tehran was still ongoing, Vaez said.

    Now Trump “is asking for Iranian surrender” on his Truth Social platform, he said.

    “I think the only thing that is more dangerous than suffering from Israeli and American bombs is actually surrendering to American terms,” Vaez said.

    “Because if Iran surrenders on the nuclear issue and on the demands of President Trump, there is no end to the slippery slope, which would eventually result in regime collapse and capitulation anyway.”

    Most Americans oppose US involvement
    Meanwhile, a new survey has reported that most Americans oppose US military involvement in the conflict.

    The survey by YouGov showed that some 60 percent of Americans surveyed thought the US military should not get involved in the ongoing hostilities between Israel and Iran.

    Only 16 percent favoured US involvement, while 24 percent said they were not sure.

    Among the Democrats, those who opposed US intervention were at 65 percent, and among the Republicans, it was 53 percent. Some 61 percent of independents opposed the move.

    The survey also showed that half of Americans viewed Iran as an enemy of the US, while 25 percent said it was “unfriendly”.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Israel-Iran war ‘more dangerous than we imagine’, says Middle East Eye editor

    Pacific Media Watch

    The Big Picture Podcast host, New Zealand-Egyptian journalist and author Mohamed Hassan, interviews Middle East Eye editor-in-chief David Hearst about the rapidly unfolding war between Israel and Iran, why the West supports it, and what it threatens to unleash on the global order.

    What does Israel really want to achieve, what options does Iran have to deescalate, and will the United States stop the war, or join it as is being hinted?

    Hearst says the war is “more dangerous than we imagine” and notes that while most Western leadership still backs Israel, there has been a strong shift in world public opinion against Tel Aviv.

    He says Israel has lost most of the world’s support, most of the Global South, most African states, Brazil, South Africa, China and Russia.

    Hearst says the world is witnessing the “cynical tailend of the colonial era” among Western states.


    The era of peace is over.             Video: Middle East Eye

    Iran ‘unlikely to surrender’
    Ali Vaez, the Iran project director at the International Crisis Group, says Iran is unlikely to “surrender to American terms” and that there is a risk the war on Iran could “bring the entire region down”.

    Vaez told Al Jazeera in an interview that US President Donald Trump “provided the green light for Israel to attack Iran” just two days before the president’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, was due to meet with the Iranians in the Oman capital of Muscat.

    Imagine viewing, from the Iranian perspective, Trump giving the go-ahead for the attack while at the same time saying that diplomacy with Tehran was still ongoing, Vaez said.

    Now Trump “is asking for Iranian surrender” on his Truth Social platform, he said.

    “I think the only thing that is more dangerous than suffering from Israeli and American bombs is actually surrendering to American terms,” Vaez said.

    “Because if Iran surrenders on the nuclear issue and on the demands of President Trump, there is no end to the slippery slope, which would eventually result in regime collapse and capitulation anyway.”

    Most Americans oppose US involvement
    Meanwhile, a new survey has reported that most Americans oppose US military involvement in the conflict.

    The survey by YouGov showed that some 60 percent of Americans surveyed thought the US military should not get involved in the ongoing hostilities between Israel and Iran.

    Only 16 percent favoured US involvement, while 24 percent said they were not sure.

    Among the Democrats, those who opposed US intervention were at 65 percent, and among the Republicans, it was 53 percent. Some 61 percent of independents opposed the move.

    The survey also showed that half of Americans viewed Iran as an enemy of the US, while 25 percent said it was “unfriendly”.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Victoria is looking into religious cults – here’s what it should examine

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jaime Simpson, Doctoral Researcher, Domestic Family Violence Counsellor, University of Newcastle

    Paul shuang/Shutterstock

    The Victorian parliament has launched a long-overdue inquiry into abuse and coercive control within cults and religious fringe groups.

    It is a welcome acknowledgement of the damage that can flourish under the guise of faith, and the unquestioning obedience to authoritarian leaders in religious groups.

    The inquiry will hear victim-survivors can suffer a diverse range of harms, including sexual, financial and labour exploitation, spiritual manipulation, and institutional betrayal.

    Abusive practices

    Geelong state MP Christine Couzens says the Geelong Revival Centre has caused a great deal of hurt.
    Parliament of Victoria, CC BY

    The inquiry is the first of its kind in Australia.

    Prompted by recent events, including reports of coercive behaviour at the Geelong Revival Centre, the inquiry will examine “the methods used to recruit and control their members, and the impacts of coercive control”.

    According to the committee’s guidance note, the focus will be on techniques that can damage individuals emotionally, psychologically, financially and even physically.

    Importantly, the inquiry will interrogate “abusive practices”, not the beliefs behind them:

    There is a distinction between genuine religious practice and harmful behaviour. “Freedom of religion” is not freedom, for example, to defraud, nor is it freedom to cause significant psychological harm to any person.

    Consideration will be given to whether the law adequately protects people when cults and fringe groups cause the types of harm that should be criminalised.

    Sexual control

    My research examined the sexual exploitation of congregation members perpetrated by pastors within evangelical, Pentecostal faith communities in Australia.

    Respondents described feeling broken, shattered, and spiritually battered. The harms were similar to those experienced by survivors of incest, child sexual abuse and domestic violence.

    For example:

    • 72% of respondents were diagnosed with an anxiety disorder

    • 52% suffered Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

    • 48% were diagnosed with depression

    • 48% experienced suicidal ideation.

    As American sociologist and cult expert Janja Lalich explains:

    Sexual control is seen as the final step in the objectification of the cult member by the authoritarian leader, who is able to satisfy his needs through psychological manipulation leading to sexual exploitation.

    Power imbalance

    My research uncovered instances of sexual exploitation by pastors that constitutes a form of sexual violence and coercive control. The absence of a centralised reporting body means there is no accessible data on the extent of clergy sexual exploitation of adults in Australian faith communities.

    However, international research found around 3% of churchgoing women had been subjected to sexual advances from a married religious leader.

    Too often, institutions downplay the abuse as a “moral failing” or a mutual lapse into sin, ignoring the profound power imbalance that makes meaningful consent impossible.

    Pastor-congregant relationships are not consensual; they are violations of trust and authority. Survivors are often left with no pathways to justice or support because coercive control is not recognised in non-intimate settings.

    Search for belonging

    Victim-survivors would benefit from legal reform that formally recognises and criminalises this form of abuse.

    Coercive control legislation covering institutional and spiritual settings, would help protect congregation members targeted by predator pastors.

    I was recruited into a Pentecostal church as a teenager through a Bible college that was allowed into my public high school to “preach the gospel”. I know firsthand how easily these environments can entrap teenagers at an age when many are seeking identity outside of family.

    The parliamentary inquiry is not designed to question people’s religion, but to protect them from harmful behaviour.
    SibRapid/Shutterstock

    What began as a search for belonging led to years of grooming and coercion, and it took over two decades to name and report the abuse. The response from the church was just as harmful as the abuse itself.

    Fear and shame

    The harms often extend beyond sexual exploitation in many of these groups. Marginalised individuals are particularly vulnerable in these environments.

    LGBTQIA+ people in some evangelical churches have historically been subjected to conversion practices masquerading as prayer, counselling, or pastoral care. In one recent example, an evangelical church in New South Wales preached from the pulpit:

    A gay person is at least three times more likely to kill themselves. A transsexual is 15 times more likely to kill themselves. So if you are a parent and you love your kids make sure they are not gay or trans.

    This kind of messaging doesn’t protect children – it instils fear, shame, and self-hatred. It reflects a deeper pattern of spiritual abuse that pathologises identity and uses fear to exert control. The consequences are devastating, especially for young people already struggling to reconcile faith, identity, and belonging.

    Template for reform

    Many people fail to grasp how intelligent adults can become trapped in such environments.

    But coercive control is not about intelligence – it’s about power, dependency, and the slow erosion of critical thinking by spiritual authority.

    While coercive control in family violence is finally being addressed, spiritual and sexual coercive control within faith communities, cults, and fringe groups remains in a legal blind spot.

    This is exactly why the Victorian probe and follow-up law reform are both necessary.

    The inquiry should provide a framework for other states and territories to follow suit and scrutinise cults and organised fringe groups in their own jurisdictions.

    Lead author Jaime Simpson is a survivor of sexual exploitation in an evangelical community. The research mentioned is this article was conducted by her.

    Jaime Simpson received a Higher Degree Research tuition off-set to complete her Master in Philosophy

    Kathleen McPhillips receives funding from the Australian Research Theology Foundation ARTFinc), the Ian and Shirley Norman Foundation (ISNF) and the Australia-Germany Joint Research Cooperation Scheme.

    – ref. Victoria is looking into religious cults – here’s what it should examine – https://theconversation.com/victoria-is-looking-into-religious-cults-heres-what-it-should-examine-259152

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Victoria is looking into religious cults – here’s what it should examine

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jaime Simpson, Doctoral Researcher, Domestic Family Violence Counsellor, University of Newcastle

    Paul shuang/Shutterstock

    The Victorian parliament has launched a long-overdue inquiry into abuse and coercive control within cults and religious fringe groups.

    It is a welcome acknowledgement of the damage that can flourish under the guise of faith, and the unquestioning obedience to authoritarian leaders in religious groups.

    The inquiry will hear victim-survivors can suffer a diverse range of harms, including sexual, financial and labour exploitation, spiritual manipulation, and institutional betrayal.

    Abusive practices

    Geelong state MP Christine Couzens says the Geelong Revival Centre has caused a great deal of hurt.
    Parliament of Victoria, CC BY

    The inquiry is the first of its kind in Australia.

    Prompted by recent events, including reports of coercive behaviour at the Geelong Revival Centre, the inquiry will examine “the methods used to recruit and control their members, and the impacts of coercive control”.

    According to the committee’s guidance note, the focus will be on techniques that can damage individuals emotionally, psychologically, financially and even physically.

    Importantly, the inquiry will interrogate “abusive practices”, not the beliefs behind them:

    There is a distinction between genuine religious practice and harmful behaviour. “Freedom of religion” is not freedom, for example, to defraud, nor is it freedom to cause significant psychological harm to any person.

    Consideration will be given to whether the law adequately protects people when cults and fringe groups cause the types of harm that should be criminalised.

    Sexual control

    My research examined the sexual exploitation of congregation members perpetrated by pastors within evangelical, Pentecostal faith communities in Australia.

    Respondents described feeling broken, shattered, and spiritually battered. The harms were similar to those experienced by survivors of incest, child sexual abuse and domestic violence.

    For example:

    • 72% of respondents were diagnosed with an anxiety disorder

    • 52% suffered Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

    • 48% were diagnosed with depression

    • 48% experienced suicidal ideation.

    As American sociologist and cult expert Janja Lalich explains:

    Sexual control is seen as the final step in the objectification of the cult member by the authoritarian leader, who is able to satisfy his needs through psychological manipulation leading to sexual exploitation.

    Power imbalance

    My research uncovered instances of sexual exploitation by pastors that constitutes a form of sexual violence and coercive control. The absence of a centralised reporting body means there is no accessible data on the extent of clergy sexual exploitation of adults in Australian faith communities.

    However, international research found around 3% of churchgoing women had been subjected to sexual advances from a married religious leader.

    Too often, institutions downplay the abuse as a “moral failing” or a mutual lapse into sin, ignoring the profound power imbalance that makes meaningful consent impossible.

    Pastor-congregant relationships are not consensual; they are violations of trust and authority. Survivors are often left with no pathways to justice or support because coercive control is not recognised in non-intimate settings.

    Search for belonging

    Victim-survivors would benefit from legal reform that formally recognises and criminalises this form of abuse.

    Coercive control legislation covering institutional and spiritual settings, would help protect congregation members targeted by predator pastors.

    I was recruited into a Pentecostal church as a teenager through a Bible college that was allowed into my public high school to “preach the gospel”. I know firsthand how easily these environments can entrap teenagers at an age when many are seeking identity outside of family.

    The parliamentary inquiry is not designed to question people’s religion, but to protect them from harmful behaviour.
    SibRapid/Shutterstock

    What began as a search for belonging led to years of grooming and coercion, and it took over two decades to name and report the abuse. The response from the church was just as harmful as the abuse itself.

    Fear and shame

    The harms often extend beyond sexual exploitation in many of these groups. Marginalised individuals are particularly vulnerable in these environments.

    LGBTQIA+ people in some evangelical churches have historically been subjected to conversion practices masquerading as prayer, counselling, or pastoral care. In one recent example, an evangelical church in New South Wales preached from the pulpit:

    A gay person is at least three times more likely to kill themselves. A transsexual is 15 times more likely to kill themselves. So if you are a parent and you love your kids make sure they are not gay or trans.

    This kind of messaging doesn’t protect children – it instils fear, shame, and self-hatred. It reflects a deeper pattern of spiritual abuse that pathologises identity and uses fear to exert control. The consequences are devastating, especially for young people already struggling to reconcile faith, identity, and belonging.

    Template for reform

    Many people fail to grasp how intelligent adults can become trapped in such environments.

    But coercive control is not about intelligence – it’s about power, dependency, and the slow erosion of critical thinking by spiritual authority.

    While coercive control in family violence is finally being addressed, spiritual and sexual coercive control within faith communities, cults, and fringe groups remains in a legal blind spot.

    This is exactly why the Victorian probe and follow-up law reform are both necessary.

    The inquiry should provide a framework for other states and territories to follow suit and scrutinise cults and organised fringe groups in their own jurisdictions.

    Lead author Jaime Simpson is a survivor of sexual exploitation in an evangelical community. The research mentioned is this article was conducted by her.

    Jaime Simpson received a Higher Degree Research tuition off-set to complete her Master in Philosophy

    Kathleen McPhillips receives funding from the Australian Research Theology Foundation ARTFinc), the Ian and Shirley Norman Foundation (ISNF) and the Australia-Germany Joint Research Cooperation Scheme.

    – ref. Victoria is looking into religious cults – here’s what it should examine – https://theconversation.com/victoria-is-looking-into-religious-cults-heres-what-it-should-examine-259152

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Are Israel’s actions in Iran illegal? Could it be called self-defence? An international law expert explains

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Shannon Bosch, Associate Professor (Law), Edith Cowan University

    Israel’s major military operation against Iran has targeted its nuclear program, including its facilities and scientists, as well as its military leadership.

    In response, the United Nations Security Council has quickly convened an emergency sitting. There, the Israeli ambassador to the UN Danny Danon defended Israel’s actions as a “preventative strike” carried out with “precision, purpose, and the most advanced intelligence”. It aimed, he said, to:

    dismantle Iran’s nuclear programme, eliminate the architects of its terror and aggression and neutralise the regime’s ability to follow through on its repeated public promise to destroy the state of Israel.

    So, what does international law say about self-defence? And were Israel’s actions illegal under international law?

    When is self-defence allowed?

    Article 2.4 of the UN charter states:

    All members shall refrain in their international relations from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state, or in any other manner inconsistent with the Purposes of the United Nations.

    There are only two exceptions:

    1. when the UN Security Council authorises force, and
    2. when a state acts in self-defence.

    This “inherent right of individual or collective self-defence”, as article 51 of the UN charter puts it, persists until the Security Council acts to restore international peace and security.

    So what’s ‘self-defence’ actually mean?

    The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has consistently interpreted self-defence narrowly.

    In many cases, it has rejected arguments from states such as the United States, Uganda and Israel that have sought to promote a more expansive interpretation of self-defence.

    The 9/11 attacks marked a turning point. The UN Security Council affirmed in resolutions 1368 and 1373 that the right to self-defence extends to defending against attacks by non-state actors, such as terrorist groups. The US, invoking this right, launched its military action in Afghanistan.

    The classic understanding of self-defence – that it’s justified when a state responds reactively to an actual, armed attack – was regarded as being too restrictive in the age of missiles, cyberattacks and terrorism.

    This helped give rise to the idea of using force before an imminent attack, in anticipatory self-defence.

    The threshold for anticipatory self-defence is widely seen by scholars as high. It requires what’s known as “imminence”. In other words, this is the “last possible window of opportunity” to act to stop an unavoidable attack.

    As set out by then-UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan in 2005:

    as long as the threatened attack is imminent, no other means would deflect it and the action is proportionate, this would meet the accepted interpretation of self defence under article 51.

    As international law expert Donald Rothwell points out, the legitimacy of anticipatory self-defence hinges on factual scrutiny and strict criteria, balancing urgency, legality and accountability.

    However, the lines quickly blurred

    In 2002, the US introduced a “pre-emptive doctrine” in its national security strategy.

    This argued new threats – such as terrorism and weapons of mass destruction – justified using force to forestall attacks before they occurred.

    Critics, including Annan, warned that if the notion of preventive self-defence was widely accepted, it would undermine the prohibition on the use of force. It would basically allow states to act unilaterally on speculative intelligence.

    Annan acknowledged:

    if there are good arguments for preventive military action, with good evidence to support them, they should be put to the Security Council, which can authorise such action if it chooses to.

    If it does not so choose, there will be, by definition, time to pursue other strategies, including persuasion, negotiation, deterrence and containment – and to visit again the military option.

    This is exactly what Israel has failed to do before attacking Iran.

    Lessons from history

    Israel’s stated goal was to damage Iran’s nuclear program and prevent it from developing a nuclear weapon that could be used against it.

    This is explicitly about preventing an alleged, threatened, future attack by Iran with a nuclear weapon that, according to all publicly available information, Iran does not currently possess.

    This is not the first time Israel has advanced a broad interpretation of self-defence.

    In 1981, Israel bombed Iraq’s Osirak nuclear reactor, which was under construction on the outskirts of Baghdad. It claimed a nuclear-armed Iraq would pose an unacceptable threat. The UN Security Council condemned the attack.

    As international law stands, unless an armed attack is imminent and unavoidable, such strikes are likely to be considered unlawful uses of force.

    While there is still time and opportunity to use non-forcible means to prevent the threatened attack, there’s no necessity to act now in self defence.

    Diplomatic engagement, sanction, and international monitoring of Iran’s nuclear program — such as through the International Atomic Energy Agency — remain the lawful means of addressing the emerging threat posed by Tehran.

    Preserving the rule of law

    The right to self-defence is not a blank cheque.

    Anticipatory self-defence remains legally unsettled and highly contested.

    So were Israel’s attacks on Iran a legitimate use of “self-defence”? I would argue no.

    I concur with international law expert Marko Milanovic that Israel’s claim to be acting in preventive self-defence must be rejected on the facts available to us.

    In a volatile world, preserving these legal limits is essential to avoiding unchecked aggression and preserving the rule of law.

    Shannon Bosch 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. Are Israel’s actions in Iran illegal? Could it be called self-defence? An international law expert explains – https://theconversation.com/are-israels-actions-in-iran-illegal-could-it-be-called-self-defence-an-international-law-expert-explains-259259

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • PM Modi takes part in G7 outreach on energy security; calls for clean energy access, AI oversight, Global South priorities

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday participated in the outreach session on energy security at the 51st G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Canada, where he called for universal access to clean energy, responsible use of artificial intelligence, and greater attention to the needs of the Global South.

    In a post on X, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal highlighted key takeaways from the Prime Minister’s address.

    PM Modi emphasized that affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy remains India’s top priority in an increasingly technology-driven world.

    “In the last century, we saw competition for energy. In this century, we will have to cooperate for technology. Moving forward on the fundamental principles of availability, accessibility, affordability, acceptability, India has chosen the path of inclusive development” PM Modi said.

    He underscored India’s clean energy initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance, Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), and the Global Biofuels Alliance.

    PM Modi noted that India has already fulfilled its Paris climate commitments ahead of schedule and is rapidly advancing toward its Net Zero target by 2070.

    “Currently, renewable energy accounts for around 50 percent of our total installed capacity,” he added.

    PM Modi also reiterated India’s commitment to representing the concerns of the Global South on the world stage.

    “Unfortunately, the Global South countries suffer the most from uncertainty and conflicts. They are the first to be hit by crises related to food, fuel, fertilizer, and finance. India considers it its responsibility to bring the priorities and concerns of the Global South to the world stage,” he said.

    Highlighting India’s success in democratizing technology through Digital Public Infrastructure, the Prime Minister stressed the importance of meaningful and high-quality data as the foundation for inclusive and responsible AI.

    He called for global cooperation to build governance frameworks around artificial intelligence that both encourage innovation and address emerging risks.

    “AI itself is an energy-intensive technology. If there is any way to sustainably fulfill the energy requirements of a technology-driven society, it is through renewable energy,” PM Modi said.

    Addressing AI risks, PM Modi warned of the growing threat of deepfakes, urging the need for safeguards.

    “Deep fake is a cause of great concern. Watermarking or clear declaration should be mandatory for AI-generated content,” he said.

    On the issue of terrorism, the Prime Minister strongly condemned the recent Pahalgam terror attack, describing it as an attack on humanity and democratic values.

    “There should be no place for double standards on terrorism,” he said, urging the global community to adopt a consistent and firm stance against terror networks.

    “For global peace and prosperity, our thought and policy must be clear — if any country supports terrorism, it will have to pay the price for it. On one hand, we are quick to impose all kinds of sanctions based on our own preferences. On the other hand, countries that openly support terrorism are rewarded,” PM Modi added. 

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Residents of the Northern Administrative District will receive more opportunities for recreation and training — Sobyanin

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Last year, the Northern Administrative District of Moscow was improved two parks and two squares. In the new season, 10 more projects for the creation of high-quality public space will be implemented here. They were described in his blog Sergei Sobyanin.

    Savelovsky district

    In the Savelovsky District, work will take place in the Avtomobilist Park. The children’s playground will be renovated and adapted for children of all ages. Two complexes with slides and passages, swings and balance beams, a sandbox and trampolines for children will be installed here. In addition, the park will have a stylophone that develops musical abilities, a “Listen to the City” module and a module that allows you to study how a floating lighthouse works.

    The sports ground will feature workout complexes with horizontal bars, rings and a punching bag. In addition, parkour skills can be honed here.

    The area for four-legged pets will be equipped with modern equipment: a boom, rings and barriers.

    Several recreation areas with park sofas, small canopies and wooden decks will be created on the Vyatskaya Street side.

    Airport District

    In the Aeroport area, the territory of Golovanovsky Park will be improved. A sandbox, carousels, swings and spring swings will be installed on the children’s playground next to the play complex. Table tennis tables will be replaced on the sports ground.

    The recreation areas will feature park swings and benches. Additional landscaping will make the park even more comfortable.

    Khovrino district

    The Khovrin public park will also offer more opportunities for varied recreation. A large playground will be set up in its central part, designed for children of different ages. There will be play complexes in the form of houses and a locomotive with slides and passages. For older children, a playground with trampolines, balance beams, swings and carousels will be installed. Parents will be able to relax on semicircular benches and round benches.

    Large swings will be installed in the play area located at the entrance to the park from Festivalnaya Street. A multi-level amphitheater, recreation areas with umbrella awnings and round benches underneath them, as well as park swings under awnings will be located nearby.

    A modern dog walking area will be built nearby.

    “We will put the sports area in order from the Lyapidevskogo street side. We will equip a universal area for playing football and basketball, install strength training equipment, workout complexes with horizontal bars and rings, and tennis tables. And we will lay a convenient running track across the park territory,” the Moscow Mayor noted.

    Begovoy District

    Two projects are being implemented at once in the Begovaya area.

    Along the pedestrian zone from Leningradsky Prospekt to 2nd Botkinsky Proezd, there will be park gazebos, swings with canopies and sun loungers. Near the building of the Polytechnic College in 1st Botanichesky Proezd, a training area for pets will be equipped.

    The area near the Church of the Life-Giving Trinity on Leningradsky Prospekt (16, building 1) will also be improved. Nearby is an arts school, whose teachers have suggested creating a sports ground for children nearby. This summer, they will be able to play basketball and football, do pull-ups on horizontal bars, and develop agility on a mini-climbing wall.

    You can also relax on the children’s playground, where they will install a play complex with slides and ladders, swings, a carousel and a spring rocker.

    Molzhaninovsky district

    Residents of Molzhaninovsky District will also have new opportunities for recreation and exercise in the fresh air. A skate park will be built between buildings 6a and 6b of the Perspektiva school on 1st Sestroretskaya Street. The area near a small pond will also be tidied up. The route from the school to the 2nd Podrezkovskaya Street public transport stop will also be landscaped and greened.

    Beskudnikovsky district

    In Beskudnikovsky District, the area around residential buildings within the boundaries of Beskudnikovsky Boulevard, Svyatoslava Fedorov Street and Dmitrovskoye Highway will be transformed.

    Children’s and sports playgrounds near house 90 (buildings 1 and 2) on Dmitrovskoe Shosse, as well as in the courtyard of house 31 on Beskudnikovsky Boulevard will be put in order.

    A modern area for walking and training dogs will be set up in the green area adjacent to the houses located on Beskudnikovsky Boulevard. In addition, the area will have new pavement, park furniture, and additional landscaping.

    Golovinsky district

    In Golovinsky District, a space for recreation and sports will appear on Kronstadt Boulevard.

    “The transit area from public transport stops to residential buildings will be transformed. We will arrange parking space, organize paths for leisurely walks and a bike path,” concluded Sergei Sobyanin.

    Sergei Sobyanin approved plans for improvement in 2025

    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.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/mayor/tkhemes/12849050/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s space program provides platform for expanded international cooperation: experts

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, June 18 (Xinhua) — China’s space endeavors are creating a platform for broader international cooperation, the State Council Information Office said at a press conference on Tuesday.

    Li Yingliang, head of the General Technology Department of the China Manned Space Program Office, told reporters that China’s space station will make significant discoveries related to fundamental and cutting-edge questions such as the origin of life, the evolution of the universe and the structure of matter.

    This will effectively promote innovative development in human space science, space technology and space utilization, he said, adding that China’s space endeavors represented by the space station and manned lunar exploration will provide a greater platform for broader international cooperation.

    During the press conference, four space experts and astronaut Fei Junlong shared their experiences and opinions on the domestic manned space program.

    Sun Wei, deputy chief designer of the program’s landing system, noted that China is building more TT ground stations

    Sun Wei noted that China, in turn, is a member of several international organizations, including the International Telecommunication Union and the Consultative Committee for Space Data Systems. This TT expert

    “Every time I flew into space, I looked back at the Earth, the common home of mankind, through the window of the spacecraft,” said astronaut Fei Junlong. “I can imagine that my colleagues from abroad do the same during their space flights,” he said. Fei Junlong is a former commander of the Shenzhou-6 and Shenzhou-15 missions and the first astronaut to conduct an extravehicular activity after the completion of China’s space station.

    Fei Junlong called space exploration and development “a common mission of mankind” and invited astronauts from around the world to visit China’s space station.

    China’s space station has hosted nine crews to date. The crew currently on board is on the Shenzhou-20 mission, which launched on April 24, 2025. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Exclusive: Intensification of Uzbek-Chinese relations is a requirement of the times – Uzbekistan expert

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    Tashkent, June 18 /Xinhua/ — Intensification of relations between Uzbekistan and China is a requirement of the times, said Bakhodir Ismailov, head of the sector of the Institute of Legislation and Legal Policy under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, in an interview with Xinhua.

    He noted that for over 30 years, Uzbekistan and China have been continuously strengthening political mutual trust and developing bilateral relations based on the principles of equality, friendship, good neighborliness, mutual support, mutual benefit, respect and consideration of each other’s interests. Cooperation is developing especially actively today, when the countries are demonstrating confident growth rates, the expert added.

    According to B. Ismailov, Chinese diplomacy invariably stands on the side of international justice, resolutely opposes hegemony, actively promotes the formation of a fair and orderly multipolar world, as well as inclusive economic globalization.

    Chinese-Uzbek friendship has been growing stronger over the years, and the prospects for cooperation between the two countries are expanding, the agency’s interlocutor emphasized. Uzbekistan is actively participating in the Belt and Road initiative launched by China in 2013, he noted.

    With the election of Shavkat Mirziyoyev as President of Uzbekistan in 2016, Uzbek-Chinese cooperation entered a trajectory of more dynamic development, B. Ismailov said. This is facilitated by both regular political dialogue at the highest level and the established friendly and trusting relations between the leaders of the two countries, the expert added.

    Active dialogue maintained at the intergovernmental, interparliamentary and interdepartmental levels also plays a key role in deepening multifaceted cooperation, the scientist said.

    The Central Asia-China format at the level of heads of state has become a new platform for interaction, B. Ismailov emphasized, adding that following the first summit of the leaders of the Central Asian countries and China, held in May 2023, the Xi’an Declaration was signed, which established the institutional basis for deepening cooperation in the new format.

    He noted that China and Uzbekistan have consistently supported each other on issues affecting core interests, jointly uphold genuine multilateralism, promote common values, and make active contributions to maintaining stability in the world and the region. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: ACT Government welcomes inclusive changes to blood and plasma donation rules

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    As part of ACT Government’s ‘One Government, One Voice’ program, we are transitioning this website across to our . You can access everything you need through this website while it’s happening.

    Released 18/06/2025

    The ACT Government has today welcomed the Australian Red Cross Lifeblood’s announcement of significant and long-awaited changes to blood and plasma donation rules, which will make the donation process more inclusive and accessible for members of the LGBTIQA+ community.

    From 14 July 2025, Lifeblood will remove most sexual activity wait times for plasma donations, allowing more Australians – including gay and bisexual men and transgender women – to donate plasma without delay, provided they meet all other eligibility criteria.

    The Therapeutic Goods Administration has also approved a move to gender-neutral sexual activity assessments for blood donations, a shift expected to be implemented next year.

    Chief Minister Andrew Barr said the changes mark a historic milestone for equality and inclusion in Australia’s healthcare system, particularly for the LGBTIQA+ community.

    “These reforms are long overdue and represent a powerful step forward for equality, inclusion, and public health,” the Chief Minister said.

    “For decades, the LGBTIQA+ community has faced unjust restrictions when it comes to blood and plasma donation. Today’s announcement brings us closer to a system that treats people fairly and values their contribution to our health system. I thank all those who have worked to bring about this change.”

    Minister for Health Rachel Stephen-Smith acknowledged the years of advocacy and research that contributed to these changes.

    “This announcement is the result of years of hard work by researchers, health professionals, and LGBTIQA+ advocates who have pushed for donation policies grounded in evidence and fairness,” Minister Stephen-Smith said.

    “The plasma pathway is genuinely world-leading reform, but we know its development left many LGBTIQA+ people feeling frustrated and stigmatised when it came to blood donation.

    “We thank Lifeblood for recognising the need for change and for taking steps to increase the donor pool while continuing to safeguard the health of those who receive blood and plasma.”

    Minister Chris Steel, a long-time advocate for inclusive donation policies, said the new approach was not only fairer, but more effective.

    “Common sense has prevailed in enabling thousands of gay men to safely contribute to Australia’s blood supply like other countries around the world,” Minister Steel said.

    “The Australian Red Cross Blood Service currently relies on just three per cent of the population to maintain our nation’s blood supplies, yet Australia has been unnecessarily excluding thousands of healthy people in monogamous relationships from donating blood.”

    “I’m proud to have supported this push for reform, and I welcome Lifeblood’s leadership in moving to a more inclusive, evidence-based approach.”

    These reforms come at a critical time, with rising demand for plasma in Australia’s hospitals. Lifeblood anticipates the changes will enable an additional 24,000 donors and 95,000 more plasma donations each year. Eligible Canberrans are encouraged to consider donating blood or plasma. To book a donation, visit www.lifeblood.com.au or call 13 14 95.

    – Statement ends –

    Andrew Barr, MLA | Rachel Stephen-Smith, MLA | Chris Steel, MLA | Media Releases

    «ACT Government Media Releases | «Minister Media Releases

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: ACT Budget 2025-26: Major Investment in ACT Policing and Community Safety

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services



    As part of ACT Government’s ‘One Government, One Voice’ program, we are transitioning this website across to our . You can access everything you need through this website while it’s happening.

    Released 18/06/2025

    The ACT Government is delivering through the 2025–26 ACT Budget to strengthen ACT Policing and support community safety.

    This investment supports the workforce and infrastructure needed to ensure ACT Policing can continue responding to the needs of a growing city and keep our community safe.

    The Budget includes $112 million over four years to fund the recently agreed Australian Federal Police Enterprise Agreement and support continued service delivery by ACT Policing. This investment will support salary increases, leave entitlements and allowances for ACT Policing staff, in addition to enabling services.

    Treasurer Chris Steel said the investments are part of a broader commitment to modernise and future-proof policing infrastructure and services.

    “This Budget supports a professional and modern ACT Police service, with investment in workforce, equipment and long-term planning,” Mr Steel said.

    “We’re ensuring ACT Policing is resourced to respond to community needs, support public safety, and deliver outcomes for all Canberrans.”

    The Budget provides more than $3.7 million in funding to plan and progress infrastructure upgrades across ACT Policing:

    • Detailed design for critical infrastructure upgrades to assets at Winchester and City Police Stations, including mechanical, electrical, fire and hydraulic systems
    • Detailed planning and analysis for future police accommodation in the Woden Patrol Zone and a Molonglo Police Station

    Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Services, Dr Marisa Paterson said the investment recognises the critical role police officers play in keeping Canberrans safe and delivers key recommendations from the Sexual Assault (Police) Review.

    “This Budget delivers support our frontline police officers to ensure ACT Policing is a competitive, modern and well-resourced police force,” Dr Paterson said.

    “We’re also funding a new initiative which implements a priority recommendation of the Sexual Assault (Police) Review. Sexual Assault Advocates embedded within ACT Police will support victim survivors in their engagement with the justice system.

    “This is a critical step in improving our justice response to better support victim survivors.”

    The Government is investing $6.45 million over two years to implement the Sexual Assault Advocate Pilot Program, a key recommendation of the Sexual Assault (Police) Review. This includes:

    • Establishing a fourth Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Team within ACT Policing to manage high investigative caseloads
    • Funding for dedicated sexual assault advocates to support victim-survivors during police engagement
    • A new Witness Assistant Scheme officer in the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions

    These reforms will improve support and outcomes for victim-survivors of sexual violence in Canberra.

    – Statement ends –

    Chris Steel, MLA | Marisa Paterson, MLA | Media Releases

    «ACT Government Media Releases | «Minister Media Releases

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Man charged after police seize parcel containing half a kilo of ice

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Man charged after police seize parcel containing half a kilo of ice

    Wednesday, 18 June 2025 – 3:40 pm.

    A man has been charged with trafficking in a controlled substance and attempt to unlawfully import a controlled substance after police seized half a kilogram of methylamphetamine (ice).
    A parcel containing the highly addictive drug had been posted from Victoria to Tasmania, where it was intercepted by members of Northern Drugs and Firearms Unit.
    The parcel was seized at Pipers River on Monday 16 June, and a 38-year-old Underwood man was arrested, charged and detained to appear in court.
    The methylamphetamine seized was approximately 500 grams, and had the potential to cause significant harm to the Tasmanian community.
    Anyone with information about illicit substances should contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Celebrating a Decade of the NTPFES Cadet Program

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force and the Northern Territory Fire and Emergency Services proudly celebrates the ten-year anniversary of its NT Police, Fire and Emergency Services (NTPFES) Cadet Program — a unique and impactful initiative that has provided over a decade of vocational training, personal growth, and career pathways for Territory students.

    Launched in 2015, the NTPFES Cadet Program has empowered students in Years 11 and 12 to gain firsthand experience in emergency services while achieving nationally recognised qualifications. The 18-month program includes the completion of the Certificate II in Community Engagement and the Certificate III in Business, delivered through the NTPFES College and Charles Darwin University.

    Over the past ten years, hundreds of young Territorians have graduated from the program across Darwin and Alice Springs, with the most recent squads graduating in Darwin this afternoon and in Alice Springs last Thursday 12 June. This program allows students to develop critical skills through outdoor leadership camps, cultural learning visits to Indigenous communities, community volunteering and immersive work placements within frontline services teams.

    Superintendent of Induction Division Christopher Board, reflected on the milestone, “The NTPFES Cadet Program is an outstanding initiative that has changed lives and strengthened our connection with the community. It gives young Territorians a rare opportunity to grow, learn and lead—while laying the groundwork for future careers in emergency services and beyond. Ten years on, we’re incredibly proud of what this program has achieved.

    “237 Cadets have graduated through this program from Darwin and Alice Springs since 2015, with at least 65 having progressed through civilian or uniformed employment within the NT Police Force and NT Fire and Emergency Services. 16 of these have become either Constables, Aboriginal Community Police Officers or Police Auxiliaries, and one has joined the NTES.”

    Acting Commissioner for NT Fire and Emergency Services Collene Bremner said the program gave the cadets a well-rounded understanding of the NT’s emergency services.

    “As part of the program, the cadets complete placements with the NT Fire and Rescue Service (NTFRS) and NT Emergency Service (NTES). With the NTFRS, they learn critical skills in road crash rescue and how to operate breathing apparatus (BA), and with NTES they complete necessary inductions, rescue foundations and gain boating experience to learn about vessels being used for evacuations, cargo transport and flood rescues.”

    Charles Darwin University (CDU) Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Scott Bowman AO said, “CDU is incredibly proud to support the NTPFES Cadet Program, which has delivered real-world skills, confidence and career opportunities to young Territorians for a decade.

    “Together with NTPFES and the NT Department of Education and Training, CDU is helping to build a skilled, community-minded workforce ready to lead in emergency services and beyond.”

    NT Department of Education and Training Deputy Chief Executive for Skills, Pathways and Quality, Cathy White said the cadet program helped shape the lives of many young Territorians.

    “The Department congratulates the Northern Territory Police Force, the Northern Territory Fire and Emergency Services and Charles Darwin University for their collaboration through this important training opportunity,” she said.

    “This cadet program opens many opportunities for young people who are now utilising their knowledge to pursue diverse careers in the Territory.”

    The Cadet Program not only fosters civic responsibility and leadership in participants, but also serves as a pathway into government careers.

    As we celebrate this important milestone, the organisation extends heartfelt thanks to all past and present cadets, parents, staff, schools and community partners who have contributed to the success of the program.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI: BW Energy: Company presentation Fearnley Securities Africa Focused E&P seminar  

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Company presentation Fearnley Securities Africa Focused E&P seminar  

    BW Energy is today presenting at the Fearnley Securities Africa Focused E&P seminar in Madrid, Spain. Please see the attached presentation. 

    For further information, please contact: 
     
    Brice Morlot, CFO BW Energy
    +33.7.81.11.41.16
    ir@bwenergy.no

    ABOUT BW ENERGY: 

    BW Energy is a growth E&P company with a differentiated strategy targeting proven offshore oil and gas reservoirs through low risk phased developments. The Company has access to existing production facilities to reduce time to first oil and cashflow with lower investments than traditional offshore developments. The Company’s assets are 73.5% of the producing Dussafu Marine licence offshore Gabon, 100% interest in the Golfinho and Camarupim fields, a 76.5% interest in the BM-ES-23 block, a 95% interest in the Maromba field in Brazil, a 95% interest in the Kudu field in Namibia, all operated by BW Energy. In addition, BW Energy holds approximately 6.6% of the common shares in Reconnaissance Energy Africa Ltd. and a 20% non-operating interest in the onshore Petroleum Exploration License 73 (“PEL 73”) in Namibia. Total net 2P+2C reserves and resources were 599 million barrels of oil equivalent at the start of 2025. 

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

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BW Energy: Company presentation Fearnley Securities Africa Focused E&P seminar  

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Company presentation Fearnley Securities Africa Focused E&P seminar  

    BW Energy is today presenting at the Fearnley Securities Africa Focused E&P seminar in Madrid, Spain. Please see the attached presentation. 

    For further information, please contact: 
     
    Brice Morlot, CFO BW Energy
    +33.7.81.11.41.16
    ir@bwenergy.no

    ABOUT BW ENERGY: 

    BW Energy is a growth E&P company with a differentiated strategy targeting proven offshore oil and gas reservoirs through low risk phased developments. The Company has access to existing production facilities to reduce time to first oil and cashflow with lower investments than traditional offshore developments. The Company’s assets are 73.5% of the producing Dussafu Marine licence offshore Gabon, 100% interest in the Golfinho and Camarupim fields, a 76.5% interest in the BM-ES-23 block, a 95% interest in the Maromba field in Brazil, a 95% interest in the Kudu field in Namibia, all operated by BW Energy. In addition, BW Energy holds approximately 6.6% of the common shares in Reconnaissance Energy Africa Ltd. and a 20% non-operating interest in the onshore Petroleum Exploration License 73 (“PEL 73”) in Namibia. Total net 2P+2C reserves and resources were 599 million barrels of oil equivalent at the start of 2025. 

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

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BW Energy: Company presentation Fearnley Securities Africa Focused E&P seminar  

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Company presentation Fearnley Securities Africa Focused E&P seminar  

    BW Energy is today presenting at the Fearnley Securities Africa Focused E&P seminar in Madrid, Spain. Please see the attached presentation. 

    For further information, please contact: 
     
    Brice Morlot, CFO BW Energy
    +33.7.81.11.41.16
    ir@bwenergy.no

    ABOUT BW ENERGY: 

    BW Energy is a growth E&P company with a differentiated strategy targeting proven offshore oil and gas reservoirs through low risk phased developments. The Company has access to existing production facilities to reduce time to first oil and cashflow with lower investments than traditional offshore developments. The Company’s assets are 73.5% of the producing Dussafu Marine licence offshore Gabon, 100% interest in the Golfinho and Camarupim fields, a 76.5% interest in the BM-ES-23 block, a 95% interest in the Maromba field in Brazil, a 95% interest in the Kudu field in Namibia, all operated by BW Energy. In addition, BW Energy holds approximately 6.6% of the common shares in Reconnaissance Energy Africa Ltd. and a 20% non-operating interest in the onshore Petroleum Exploration License 73 (“PEL 73”) in Namibia. Total net 2P+2C reserves and resources were 599 million barrels of oil equivalent at the start of 2025. 

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

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BW Energy: Company presentation Fearnley Securities Africa Focused E&P seminar  

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Company presentation Fearnley Securities Africa Focused E&P seminar  

    BW Energy is today presenting at the Fearnley Securities Africa Focused E&P seminar in Madrid, Spain. Please see the attached presentation. 

    For further information, please contact: 
     
    Brice Morlot, CFO BW Energy
    +33.7.81.11.41.16
    ir@bwenergy.no

    ABOUT BW ENERGY: 

    BW Energy is a growth E&P company with a differentiated strategy targeting proven offshore oil and gas reservoirs through low risk phased developments. The Company has access to existing production facilities to reduce time to first oil and cashflow with lower investments than traditional offshore developments. The Company’s assets are 73.5% of the producing Dussafu Marine licence offshore Gabon, 100% interest in the Golfinho and Camarupim fields, a 76.5% interest in the BM-ES-23 block, a 95% interest in the Maromba field in Brazil, a 95% interest in the Kudu field in Namibia, all operated by BW Energy. In addition, BW Energy holds approximately 6.6% of the common shares in Reconnaissance Energy Africa Ltd. and a 20% non-operating interest in the onshore Petroleum Exploration License 73 (“PEL 73”) in Namibia. Total net 2P+2C reserves and resources were 599 million barrels of oil equivalent at the start of 2025. 

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

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • India never accepted mediation, does not accept it, will never accept it: PM Modi to Trump

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a strong message to Washington, told US President Donald Trump that India rejects any form of mediation on issues concerning Pakistan, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said in a statement on Wednesday.

    Reiterating India’s long-standing position, Misri said, “Prime Minister Modi stressed that India has never accepted mediation, does not accept it, and will never accept it. There is complete political unanimity in India on this issue.”

    According to the foreign secretary, the two leaders spoke over the phone for 35 minutes — their first conversation since the Pahalgam terror attack and India’s response through Operation Sindoo

    The call took place after a scheduled in-person meeting between the two leaders on the sidelines of the G7 Summit was cancelled due to Trump’s early return to the US.

    “The phone conversation was held at the request of President Trump,” said Misri, adding that PM Modi used the opportunity to detail India’s measured military response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which killed 26 tourists.

    “Prime Minister Modi said that on the night of May 6-7, India had targeted only terrorist hideouts in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. India’s actions were very measured, precise, and non-escalatory,” Misri said.

    “India had made it clear that it would respond to Pakistan’s ‘goli’ with ‘gola’ — a strong, proportionate military response,” he added.

    The foreign secretary also said that on the night of May 9, US Vice President Vance conveyed to PM Modi that Pakistan could launch a major retaliatory strike.

    “Prime Minister Modi told him clearly that if this happened, India would respond with even greater force. India’s strong counterattack on the night of May 9-10 May caused heavy damage to Pakistan’s military. Several of their airbases were rendered inoperable,” Misri said. He noted that, following India’s retaliation, Pakistan approached India with a ceasefire request.

    “Prime Minister Modi stated that the ceasefire was agreed to only at Pakistan’s request and that India does not want mediation. He made it clear that at no point during this episode were India-US trade talks or third-party mediation discussed,” Misri said.

    “The halt to military action was discussed directly between the two countries through existing military channels,” he added.

    President Trump, according to Misri, fully understood India’s position and expressed support for its fight against terrorism. The prime minister also informed Trump that India would consider any terror act emanating from Pakistan as an act of war, and that Operation Sindoor remains ongoing.

    Apart from regional security, the two leaders also discussed broader international developments, including the Iran-Israel conflict and the Russia-Ukraine war. Both leaders agreed on the need for direct dialogue between Moscow and Kyiv.

    “They also discussed the Indo-Pacific and the vital role of the QUAD. The PM invited President Trump to India for the next QUAD summit, and President Trump accepted the invitation,” Misri said.

    President Trump also invited PM Modi to visit Washington, but due to a pre-existing schedule, PM Modi was unable to accept the invitation. Both leaders agreed to meet in the near future, Misri said.

  • Trump calls for Iran’s ‘unconditional surrender’ as Israel-Iran air war enters sixth day

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Iran and Israel launched new missile strikes at each other on Wednesday as the air war between the two longtime enemies entered a sixth day despite a call from U.S. President Donald Trump for Tehran’s unconditional surrender.

    The Israeli military said two barrages of Iranian missiles were launched toward Israel in the first two hours of Wednesday morning. Explosions were heard over Tel Aviv.

    Israel told residents in a southwestern area of Tehran to evacuate so its air force could strike Iranian military installations. Iranian news websites said Israel was attacking a university linked to Iran’s Revolutionary Guards in the east of the capital.

    Iranian news websites said Israel was also attacking a university linked to Iran’s Revolutionary Guards in the country’s east, and the Khojir ballistic missile facility near Tehran, which was also targeted by Israeli airstrikes last October.

    The U.S. Office of the Director of National Intelligence says Iran is armed with the largest number of ballistic missiles in the Middle East. Iran has said its ballistic missiles are an important deterrent and retaliatory force against the U.S., Israel and other potential regional targets.

    Trump warned on social media on Tuesday that U.S. patience was wearing thin. While he said there was no intention to kill Iran’s leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei “for now,” his comments suggested a more aggressive stance toward Iran as he weighs whether to deepen U.S. involvement.

    “We know exactly where the so-called ‘Supreme Leader’ is hiding,” he wrote on Truth Social. “We are not going to take him out (kill!), at least not for now … Our patience is wearing thin.”

    Three minutes later Trump posted, “UNCONDITIONAL SURRENDER!”

    Trump’s sometimes contradictory and cryptic messaging about the conflict between close U.S. ally Israel and longtime foe Iran has deepened the uncertainty surrounding the crisis. His public comments have ranged from military threats to diplomatic overtures, not uncommon for a president known for an often erratic approach to foreign policy.

    A source familiar with internal discussions said Trump and his team are considering a number of options, including joining Israel on strikes against Iranian nuclear sites.

    A White House official said Trump spoke to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu by phone on Tuesday.

    Trump also met for 90 minutes with his National Security Council on Tuesday afternoon to discuss the conflict, a White House official said. Details were not immediately available.

    The U.S. is deploying more fighter aircraft to the Middle East and extending the deployment of other warplanes, three U.S. officials told Reuters. The U.S. has so far only taken indirect actions in the current conflict with Iran, including helping to shoot down missiles fired toward Israel.

    A source with access to U.S. intelligence reports said Iran has moved some ballistic missile launchers, but it is difficult to determine if they were targeting U.S. forces or Israel.

    However, Britain’s leader Keir Starmer, speaking at the Group of Seven nations summit in Canada that Trump left early, said there was no indication the U.S. was about to enter the conflict.

    REGIONAL INFLUENCE WEAKENS

    Khamenei’s main military and security advisers have been killed by Israeli strikes, hollowing out his inner circle and raising the risk of strategic errors, according to five people familiar with his decision-making process.

    With Iranian leaders suffering their most dangerous security breach since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, the country’s cybersecurity command banned officials from using communications devices and mobile phones, Fars news agency reported.

    Israel launched a “massive cyber war” against Iran’s digital infrastructure, Iranian media reported.

    Ever since Iran-backed Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, and triggered the Gaza war, Khamenei’s regional influence has waned as Israel has pounded Iran’s proxies – from Hamas in Gaza to Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthis in Yemen and militias in Iraq. Iran’s close ally, Syria’s autocratic president Bashar al-Assad, has been ousted.

    Israel launched its air war, its largest ever on Iran, on Friday after saying it had concluded the Islamic Republic was on the verge of developing a nuclear weapon.

    Iran denies seeking nuclear weapons and has pointed to its right to nuclear technology for peaceful purposes, including enrichment, as a party to the international Non-Proliferation Treaty.

    Israel, which is not a party to the NPT, is the only country in the Middle East believed to have nuclear weapons. Israel does not deny or confirm that.

    Netanyahu has stressed that he will not back down until Iran’s nuclear development is disabled, while Trump says the Israeli assault could end if Iran agrees to strict curbs on enrichment.

    Before Israel’s attack began, the 35-nation board of governors of the U.N. nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency, declared Iran in breach of its non-proliferation obligations for the first time in almost 20 years.

    The IAEA said on Tuesday an Israeli strike directly hit the underground enrichment halls at the Natanz facility.

    Israel says it now has control of Iranian airspace and intends to escalate the campaign in coming days.

    But Israel will struggle to deal a knock-out blow to deeply buried nuclear sites like Fordow, which is dug beneath a mountain, without the U.S. joining the attack.

    Iranian officials have reported 224 deaths, mostly civilians, while Israel said 24 civilians had been killed. Residents of both countries have been evacuated or fled.

    Global oil markets are on high alert following strikes on sites including the world’s biggest gas field, South Pars, shared by Iran and Qatar.

    (Reuters)

  • Monterrey hold Inter Milan 1-1 at Club World Cup

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    UEFA Champions League finalists Inter Milan were held 1-1 by Mexican side Monterrey in their opening Group E game at the Club World Cup in Pasadena on Tuesday.

    Inter dominated possession at the outset but underdogs Monterrey struck first, grabbing the lead when 39-year-old defender Sergio Ramos leaped above two defenders to power home a header from a corner in the 25th minute.

    The Italians drew level three minutes before halftime when Kristjan Asllani’s floated free-kick into the box was played across the face of goal by Carlos Augusto to give Lautaro Martinez the easy tap-in.

    Nelson Deossa had a golden opportunity to win it for Monterrey in stoppage time but his shot ended up in the side netting on a hot day at the Rose Bowl, where plenty of empty seats were visible.

    “I think we could have scored a second goal, which we didn’t unfortunately,” said Inter’s Henrikh Mkhitaryan.

    “But this is football, we have to work hard, we have to do our best to win the next games because it’s a new competition and the teams are very motivated to get out of the group stage.

    “I think we have to be more aggressive in front of goal, we need to score more goals. Even today we had chances which we didn’t score, unfortunately.”

    Tuesday’s match, the first competitive meeting between the sides, saw both teams debuting new managers.

    Cristian Chivu took over from Simone Inzaghi at Inter Milan shortly after their crushing 5-0 Champions League final defeat by Paris St Germain, while Spaniard Domenec Torrent was brought in at Monterrey after their disappointing start to the season.

    Both teams are back in action on Saturday.

    Monterrey return to the Rose Bowl to face River Plate, who beat Urawa Reds 3-1 earlier in the day, while Inter take on the Japanese side in Seattle.

    (Reuters)

  • Jual Oram highlights Modi government’s commitment to tribal welfare

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Union Minister for Tribal Affairs Jual Oram on Tuesday reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the holistic development of tribal communities, stating that transparency, inclusivity, and efficiency are the core principles driving tribal welfare programs under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.

    Speaking at an event in New Delhi, the minister emphasized that the vision of a developed India cannot be achieved without empowering and uplifting tribal communities. “A community once politically marginalized is now playing a central role in the nation’s development journey,” he said.

    Oram credited the Modi government for ensuring effective implementation of inclusive policies over the past 11 years, which have significantly transformed the lives of tribal families. He noted that while the Ministry of Tribal Affairs was founded in 1999 under former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, it has achieved real expansion and impact under PM Modi.

    Highlighting achievements in education, Oram said over 700 Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) have been established with a budget of ₹25,000 crore, ensuring access to quality education for lakhs of tribal children. He also spoke about the financial empowerment of tribal artisans and entrepreneurs, who are now finding opportunities in national and global markets.

    Praising the dignity and resilience of tribal communities, the minister remarked, “They do not believe in begging. They live with dignity and survive through hard work — and that is their true strength.”

    Oram concluded by hailing Prime Minister Modi as a true champion of tribal welfare and a key force behind the transformation in tribal policy and empowerment.

  • MIL-OSI Russia: During the holidays, Moscow schoolchildren will master the basics of sailing

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Summer educational shifts have begun at the Moscow City Children’s Maritime Center named after Peter the Great. Here, young city residents learn about the history of shipbuilding and maritime affairs and learn to operate boats and yachts. This was reported by the press service of the capital’s Department of Education and Science.

    “Every summer, the Hermes Children and Youth Creativity Development Center organizes educational shifts on the shore of the Khimki Reservoir. Under the guidance of experienced teachers, children learn the basics of sailing: they learn to steer ships, use maps and satellite systems, recognize signs of weather changes, and effectively interact with team members. It is planned that more than a thousand schoolchildren will attend the shifts this summer,” the department’s press service noted.

    During classes, schoolchildren learn to determine the direction and strength of the wind, use a life jacket and provide first aid, and also get acquainted with the structure of lifeboats and master rowing on boats Yal-6, Yal-4, Sava 470 and control of the yacht “Optimist”. For teenagers from 15 to 17 years old, a separate program has been prepared for the control of a small vessel. This will allow them to pass the exam to obtain a license immediately upon reaching adulthood.

    “The most important thing that children learn is to communicate with each other. This skill is transferred to the shore, to school. Children become more relaxed. As practice shows, they are also more physically prepared: after all, we have strength-based exercises, such as rowing,” said Mikhail Turevich, a teacher at the Peter the Great Moscow City Children’s Marine Center.

    During classes, schoolchildren construct ship models using drawings that they request from archives if necessary. The children also complete quests, go on excursions to museums, and participate in quizzes, sports competitions, and creative contests.

    Summer shift programs are available for children aged seven to 17. You can register on the website of the Center for the Development of Children and Youth Creativity “Hermes”.

    More information about additional education in the capital is available in Telegram channels “Moscow education” And“Moscow Center for Educational Practices”.

    Supplementary education programs develop creative and critical thinking in schoolchildren and form skills for a future profession. The events held within the framework of these initiatives contribute to the project “All the best for children” of the national project “Youth and Children”.

    Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

    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.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/155387073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoyer Tours YMCA Camp Letts, Touts Federal Investments in Maryland

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steny H Hoyer (MD-05)

    EDGEWATER, MD — Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) recently toured the YMCA Camp Letts to hear directly from local leaders about the critical infrastructure needs of the campsite and how they serve Maryland youth. Congressman Hoyer has long championed improvements to the YMCA’s water infrastructure as it continues to improve health outcomes for Maryland’s children and families.

    “Since I came to Congress, one of my top priorities has been to ensure Maryland families have access to clean waters and recreational opportunities,” Congressman Hoyer said. “The good people of YMCA Camp Letts have helped youth develop new skills and a sense of self-confidence that will serve them down the line in good-paying jobs and fulfilling careers. As House Republicans and Donald Trump continue to cut vital programs and services in Maryland, I will continue to help YMCA Camp Letts serve its mission and ensure Maryland families have access to healthy air and clean water.”

    Founded in 1906, YMCA Camp Letts is the area’s oldest residential camp. Since its founding, YMCA Camp Letts has served hundreds of thousands of children and their families. As part of the 2026 Fiscal Year Government Funding Bill, Congressman Hoyer is working to secure $1 million in Community Project Funding for the YMCA to improve HVAC systems, plumbing, and more. Congressman Hoyer solicited requests on his website and submitted 15 projects to the House Appropriations Committee.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: LaMalfa Recognizes Service Academy Appointments from Northern California

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Doug LaMalfa 1st District of California

    Washington, D.C.—Congressman Doug LaMalfa (R-Richvale) announced the appointment of five students selected to attend one of America’s military academies. The service academy appointees from California’s First District are as follows: 

    Nathaniel Brockhoff  – Plumas Lake
    U.S. Naval Academy
    Josiah McCormick – Redding 
    U.S. Air Force Academy 
    Lily Miller – Yuba City
    U.S. Air Force Academy
    Caden Stickney – Chico
    U.S. Air Force Academy 
    Alexander Willingham – Chico
    U.S. Air Force Academy

    Congressman LaMalfa based his nominations on the recommendations of his Military Academy Nomination Selection Committee, which is responsible for reviewing their files, interviewing the applicants, and recommending a slate of nominees. 

    “Being appointed to one of our nation’s Service Academies is a tremendous achievement and a clear reflection of these students’ hard work, character, and dedication to serving our country,” said Rep. LaMalfa. “After a competitive process, they’ve earned the chance to receive a world-class education while preparing to lead in our armed forces. I’m pleased to see such outstanding young people from Northern California take this next step, and I have no doubt they’ll represent our region and our nation well in the years ahead.” 

    From Left to Right: Josiah McCormick , Alexander Willingham , Lily Miller, Caden Stickney

    Any student with a strong desire to serve our nation as an officer in the United States Armed Forces is invited to contact Congressman LaMalfa in the spring of their junior year. Please visit his website www.lamalfa.house.gov for his nomination application and instructions. You may also call his Chico District office and speak with his U.S. Service Academy Advisor at (530) 343-1000.

    Congressman Doug LaMalfa is Chairman of the Congressional Western Caucus and a lifelong farmer representing California’s First Congressional District, including Butte, Colusa, Glenn, Lassen, Modoc, Shasta, Siskiyou, Sutter, Tehama and Yuba Counties.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New Certification scheme unlocks $200M market for Kiwi cosmetics in China

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay and Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Scott Simpson have welcomed a new certification scheme, announced by the Prime Minister in Shanghai today, that unlocks access to China’s $200 million cosmetics and skincare market — a move that will drive stronger returns for New Zealand exporters and boost the economy.

    “This is a smart, practical step that removes a long-standing trade barrier and opens up valuable new channels for our exporters,” McClay says. 

    “It means more high-quality, innovative New Zealand products on shelves in China – not just online, but in stores across one of the world’s fastest-growing consumer markets.”

    The scheme, developed with International Accreditation New Zealand (IANZ) and the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), provides exporters with a Government-issued Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) certificate that meets Chinese regulatory requirements.

    “This certification allows Kiwi-made cosmetics to be sold through traditional retail channels in China, significantly expanding market reach beyond cross-border e-commerce and supporting our goal of doubling exports by value in 10 years,” Mr McClay says.

    Minister Simpson says the scheme is a strong example of the Government’s commitment to backing New Zealand businesses and removing barriers to growth.

    “With global demand for health and beauty products rising, this gives our exporters the confidence to grow and compete in China; quickly, credibly, and at scale,” Mr Simpson says.

    “It’s another example of how we’re cutting red tape and aligning our standards with key trading partners to give Kiwi firms the certainty they need to succeed.”

    How it works:

    • Exporters complete an independent GMP assessment with IANZ.
    • If successful, MBIE confirms compliance with a certificate signed on behalf of the Government.

    New Zealand’s ban on animal testing for cosmetics remains in place, giving Chinese consumers assurance that Kiwi products are high-quality, safe, sustainable, and ethically produced.

    More information and application details will be available online soon.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ6: Safeguarding employment priority for local workers

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Chan Hak-kan and a reply by the Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Chris Sun, in the Legislative Council today (June 18):
     
    Question:
     
         The number of imported workers approved under the Enhanced Supplementary Labour Scheme (ESLS) has exceeded 50 000 to date. On the other hand, the latest unemployment rate announced by the Government is 3.4 per cent, the highest in 27 months. Regarding the safeguarding of the employment priority for local workers, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) as it has been reported that some applicant enterprises have set unreasonable criteria to exclude local applicants when conducting local recruitment under ESLS, of the number of complaints or reports involving non-compliant local recruitment procedures in the past three years and, among them, the number of substantiated cases and the relevant penalties; of the mechanism in place for proactively reviewing the reasonableness of such recruitment criteria;
     
    (2) as it has been reported that since ESLS requires enterprises to maintain a manning ratio of imported labour to local labour of no less than 1:2, some enterprises have employed local workers on a part-time basis or arranged for imported workers to take up positions inconsistent with those they applied for, whether the Government has looked into such situations; and
     
    (3) of the number of illegal workers arrested in the past three years, together with a breakdown by the trade in which they were engaged; whether it has assessed if the existing penal measures against employers of illegal workers and the intermediaries concerned have sufficient deterrent effect?

    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         To cope with the challenges brought by manpower shortage and on the premise of ensuring employment priority for local workers, the Government has enhanced the mechanism for importation of labour. Apart from launching sector-specific labour importation schemes for the construction sector, transport sector, and residential care homes for the elderly and residential care homes for persons with disabilities, the Labour Department (LD) has implemented the Enhanced Supplementary Labour Scheme (ESLS) since September 4, 2023 to suspend the general exclusion of the 26 job categories as well as unskilled or low-skilled posts from labour importation under the previous Supplementary Labour Scheme for two years. 
    (1) The LD has all along been stringently processing each application under ESLS. Applicant employers must undertake a four-week local recruitment exercise and accord priority to employing suitable local workers to fill the job vacancies. The LD will review and ascertain the employment terms, including the entry and academic qualification requirements, monthly salary and hours of work of all job vacancies posted by employers during the local recruitment. Employers taking on local job seekers through any recruitment channels during the local recruitment shall offer them employment terms no less favourable than those agreed by the LD.
     
         Upon completion of the local recruitment procedures, employers shall report the results to the LD and submit recruitment advertisements for verification. The LD will contact each of the local job seekers who is not employed by the employers, and assess whether the employers have sincerity in recruiting local workers. If there is evidence showing that an employer has violated the requirements of local recruitment, or refused to employ qualified local job seekers without reasonable reasons, the LD will impose administrative sanction of terminating the processing of the application submitted by the concerned employer for importation of labour, and refusing to process other applications submitted by the employer in the following year. Since the implementation of ESLS, the LD has not detected any employer who has violated the requirements of local recruitment or received relevant complaint from job seekers.
     
    (2) To safeguard the employment opportunities of local workers, ESLS requires relevant employers to meet the manning ratio requirement of full-time local employees to imported workers of 2:1 on a continuous basis. Full-time employees refer to local employees who are directly employed by an employer and work not less than 35 hours per week for operating the relevant business, excluding part-time staff, staff of sub-contractor(s) or self-employed person(s) providing services to the employer. At the same time, the employer shall not displace local workers in employ with imported workers. In the event of redundancy, imported workers should be retrenched first. To ensure that employers will not displace local workers in employ with imported workers, the LD has set up a dedicated hotline of 2150 6363. I appeal to employees who suspect that they have been dismissed owing to the employment of imported workers to call the hotline. The LD will follow up the complaints seriously. If substantiated, the LD will impose administrative sanction on the concerned employers, including withdrawal of approvals for importation of labour previously granted and refusal to process other applications submitted by the employers in the following two years. 
    (3) Engaging in illegal employment is a serious offence. Employers, illegal workers as well as aiders and abettors of illegal employment will be liable to prosecution in accordance with the Immigration Ordinance (IO). The IO stipulates different provisions targeting relevant offences committed by different groups of people. Visitors, illegal immigrants, overstayers, etc, are prohibited from taking up any employment, whether paid or unpaid, or establishing or joining any business. Aiders and abettors are liable to the same penalties. In addition, the Government amended the IO in 2021 to increase the penalty on employers of illegal workers, with the maximum penalty significantly increased from a fine of $350,000 and three years’ imprisonment to a fine of $500,000 and 10 years’ imprisonment with a view to reflecting the gravity of such offences. Besides, any person who takes up any employment, whether paid or unpaid, in contravention of a condition of stay shall be guilty of an offence. Upon conviction, he/she is liable to a maximum fine of $50,000 and up to two years’ imprisonment. In addition, if local employment agencies or their persons in relation are convicted of breaches of the IO, the LD may consider revoking or refusing the renewal of license for the concerned employment agencies. If the concerned persons apply for operating other employment agencies in future, the LD may also consider rejecting the issue of license. 
     
         The Government is committed to combatting illegal employment, with a view to protecting the job opportunities for the local workforce. Relevant law enforcement agencies will, depending on operational needs, risk assessment and other considerations, flexibly arrange sufficient manpower to continuously conduct intelligence-led operations. When necessary, they will conduct joint operations to rigorously combat crimes related to illegal employment.
     
         According to the records of the Immigration Department, there were respectively 886, 1 304 and 1 268 illegal workers arrested each year during 2022 to 2024. 506 illegal workers were arrested during January to May 2025. The illegal workers arrested were mainly engaged in work related to the catering, construction, cleaning, or retail and wholesale industries.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Logistics ESG roadmap announced

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Transport & Logistics Bureau today unveiled its “Roadmap for ESG (environmental, social and governance) Development for Logistics Industry”, aimed at helping local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the sector achieve compliance with international ESG requirements.

    In its Action Plan on Modern Logistics Development, promulgated in October 2023, the Government committed to formulating a clear ESG roadmap for the logistics industry and to promoting the development of green and sustainable logistics.

    After commissioning a consultancy study, the bureau has worked with the Hong Kong Logistics Development Council and various stakeholders in the industry to devise a roadmap that takes account of international ESG standards and current market developments.

    The roadmap covers a three-year period, from 2025 to 2027, and adopts a three-stage approach for logistics SMEs to build up their ESG data collection and reporting capabilities and meet the most stringent prevailing international ESG disclosure requirements by the time the roadmap expires.

    The first stage involves raising logistics SMEs’ awareness of ESG principles and international ESG requirements. The second stage will involve equipping logistics SMEs with ESG data collection capabilities, and the third will aim to prepare them to carry out ESG reporting.

    The bureau highlighted that ESG has become an international trend, with the European Union having already made ESG disclosures along whole supply chains compulsory for enterprises from this year onwards, and the Mainland also formulating its own ESG disclosure standards, which are to be applicable to all companies, including SMEs, by 2030.

    For Hong Kong logistics SMEs, the bureau added, ESG adoption is no longer an option but an essential step for their survival and the maintenance of their global competitiveness.

    It said it hopes the roadmap will provide logistics SMEs with an easy-to-follow guide to embark on their ESG journey and help to enhance the competitiveness of Hong Kong’s logistics industry, thereby consolidating its position as an international logistics hub.

    The bureau outlined that it will co-operate with industry stakeholder to promote adoption of the roadmap, and will review and update the roadmap in a timely manner ahead of its expiry with reference to prevailing international ESG requirements.

    Meanwhile, the bureau also launched today a dedicated online ESG resource centre on the Hong Kong Logistics Development Council’s website. The resource centre is intended to serve as a one-stop portal for information related to ESG.

    Additionally, to assist logistics SMEs in beginning their ESG journey, the bureau will this year launch a set of ESG data collection tools to facilitate effective collection and recording of logistics ESG data.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Serious crash at Hackham West

    Source: New South Wales – News

    Police are at the scene of a serious crash at Hackham West.

    About 2.14pm today (Wednesday 18 June), police and emergency services were called to Glynville Drive after reports of a collision involving a car and motorcycle.

    The rider suffered serious injuries.

    Major Crash officers are attending the scene.

    Please avoid the area if possible.

    MIL OSI News –