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  • MIL-OSI Russia: The Zaryadye Park will host the Theatre Weekends festival

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    A large-scale festival will be held for the third time in Zaryadye Park on June 21 and 22 “Theatre Weekend”. He will become part of the project. “Summer in Moscow” and will be dedicated to important historical dates: the 165th anniversary of Anton Chekhov’s birth and the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War. The program includes street performances, plays, concerts and master classes, which will take place from 2:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Admission to all events is free.

    This year’s festival is expected to be a record-breaking one in terms of the number of participants and the program’s content — 13 theaters and theater schools, 16 productions. Guests will get acquainted with both recognized stage masters and talented debutants.

    Visitors will be able to see productions by students of the Russian Institute of Theatre Arts – GITIS, the Moscow Art Theatre School and the Moscow State Institute of Culture. In addition, they will be shown fragments of plays performed by actors of the Russian Academic Youth Theatre and the Praktika Theatre, as well as works by young directors. The special guest of the festival will be the team of the Donetsk Republican Academic Youth Theatre. In addition, viewers will see fragments of plays by the Moscow Art Theatre named after A.P. Chekhov, the Moscow Sovremennik Theatre, the Et Cetera Theatre under the direction of Alexander Kalyagin, the Moscow Academic Theatre named after Vladimir Mayakovsky and the Central Academic Theatre of the Russian Army.

    Watch performances dedicated to Anton Chekhov

    The festival days will traditionally be themed. The first day, June 21, will be dedicated to the 165th anniversary of the birth of writer Anton Chekhov. Spectators will see multi-genre productions on the stage of the large amphitheater. At 16:00, the A.P. Chekhov Moscow Art Theater will present fragments of the play “My Life” directed by Sergei Tonyshev. At 17:00, the bright program “Chekhov-gala” directed by Alexei Borodin of the Russian Academic Youth Theater will begin.

    In addition, the anniversary day program will include excerpts from the play “Your Chekhov” (starts at 17:40) directed by Anna Artamonova of the Et Cetera Theater under the direction of Alexander Kalyagin, as well as fragments of the production “Ward No. 6” (starts at 22:00) directed by Evgeny Zakirov of the Mayakovsky Theater. Fourth-year students of Sergei Zhenovach’s workshop and graduates of Yuri Butusov’s course of the Russian Institute of Theatre Arts – GITIS will show a series of sketches “Chekhov. Stories” (starts at 20:00). The evening will continue with second-year students of Marina Brusnikina and Sergei Shchedrin’s workshop from the Moscow Art Theater School. They have prepared a performance of “Chekhov’s Stories” (starting at 19:00) and a dedication concert “The Seagull” (starting at 21:05).

    Remember the Great Victory

    On June 22, the Day of Remembrance and Sorrow, the stage of the large amphitheater of Zaryadye Park will feature performances dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War. At 4:00 PM, actors of the Russian State Academic Youth Theater will show the production “Amazement Before Life” directed by Alexey Mishakov based on the works of the war veteran writer Viktor Rozov. At 5:00 PM, third-year students of the Moscow State Institute of Culture will perform the literary and musical composition “Frontline Brigades” directed by Alena Khovanskaya. The play “On a Clear Day,” directed by Marina Brusnikina based on the story of the war veteran writer Viktor Astafyev, will be presented at 6:15 PM by actors of the Donetsk Republican Youth Theater.

    At 19:30, actors from the Moscow Sovremennik Theatre will show fragments of the play “A Tale. The Story of an Extraordinary Love”, staged by Marina Brusnikina based on Anna Baturina’s play “Front-line Soldier”. At 20:10, students from the Moscow Art Theatre School will present a musical and literary programme “Russian Poets about the Great Patriotic War”. It will feature works by Bulat Okudzhava, Alexander Tvardovsky, Andrei Voznesensky, Olga Berggolts, Vladimir Lugovskoy, Yuna Moritz and other authors.

    People’s Artist of Russia Konstantin Raikin will read the poem “Snowfall” by David Samoilov at 21:00. The festival will end with a musical and theatrical program of actors from the Central Academic Theater of the Russian Army. Director – Yulia Shulva. The open rehearsal will begin at 21:15, the concert – at 22:00.

    Take a trial exam

    Over the course of two days, June 21 and 22, in the small amphitheater from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, anyone who wishes will be able to take trial exams to enter a theater school and demonstrate their talents to a professional admissions committee. The committee will include theater figures, including Marina Zudina, Svetlana Kolpakova, Igor Gordin, Oleg Topolyansky, and Igor Vernik. In addition, the participants’ performances will be assessed by directors — artistic director of the A.S. Pushkin Theater Yevgeny Pisarev, artistic director of the Mayakovsky Theater Yegor Peregudov, as well as chief director of the Russian State Academic Youth Theater and artistic director of the Praktika Theater Marina Brusnikina.

    Participants in trial exams will be able to demonstrate themselves in various genres: read prose or poetry, sing a song. Everyone will receive a professional assessment and useful recommendations from stage masters. Improvised auditions will help aspiring actors test their strength before entering theater universities and gain valuable experience communicating with professionals who are ready to share their knowledge and suggest the future path in an acting career.

    Learn improvisation and stage speech

    On June 21 and 22 from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, the Big Meadow will host acting, improvisation and stage speech classes for the youngest guests, “Theater from Childhood.” They will be conducted by Oleg Sapiro, an actor from the Mayakovsky Theater. Participants will not talk about theater — they will play it: recall lines from different works, complete tasks for imagination, liberation and improvisation. Both children and adults will enjoy body warm-ups, speech and rhythm, as well as acting training.

    See open-air performances

    A stage for street children’s (family) performances will be located near the Zapovednoye Posledstvo pavilion. On June 21, from 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM, viewers will see the premiere – the play “Tales of the Resourceful Soldier” directed by Olga Levitina. Actors from Akulina Svetelkina’s artel will show an interactive, fun performance about the extraordinary valor and ingenuity of ordinary soldiers during Peter the Great’s time. On June 22, there will be a play “Theater on the Carpet” (from 5:15 PM to 6:15 PM) – a project of the Taste Theater, a resident of the Praktika Theater, as well as the production “My First Business” (from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM) by the Russian State Academic Youth Theater.

    What has been prepared for children at the Summer in Moscow sites from June 18 to 22Young readers are invited to new meetings at Literary Boulevard

    Project “Summer in Moscow” — the main event of the season, uniting the brightest events of the capital. Every day in all districts of the city there are charity, cultural and sports events, most of which are free. The project “Summer in Moscow” is held for the second time, and the new season will be more intense: new festivals and events will be added to the traditional ones — original and colorful.

    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.

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    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/155392073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Entrepreneur hands over humanitarian aid to SVO fighters

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The owner of a furniture shopping center located in the North-West Administrative District of Moscow has sent humanitarian parcels to the special military operation (SVO) zone more than once. Together with his employees, he managed to collect comprehensive aid — from instant drinks to blankets.

    “My friends communicate directly with the special operation fighters, and through them I learned what is needed at the front now. My friends gave me a list, and my colleagues and I bought everything our guys asked for directly from it,” Oleg shared.

    The valuable cargo was divided into clothing and food. The first included seasonal clothing, including regular and thermal underwear, as well as footwear, sleeping bags, comfortable pillows and warm blankets. All of these items are in great demand on the front lines.

    The entrepreneur also sent long-life food products and a large number of packages of tea and coffee. Food products for the military must have a long shelf life and be in sufficiently strong packaging to be guaranteed to withstand transportation in difficult conditions. Then the soldiers will receive everything safe and sound.

    The entrepreneur noted that he will help our heroes as long as it is necessary. You need to ask your friends what exactly to buy – this way the soldier will get warm comfortable boots that will serve him for a long time.

    Since the first days of the SVO, owners of Moscow stores, shopping centers, car dealerships and other service establishments, as well as Moscow restaurateurs, have regularly sent humanitarian aid to the combat zone. The parcels contain products that have a long shelf life: canned meat, fish and vegetables, tons of different cereals – from rice and buckwheat to pearl barley, pasta and sweets: cookies, candies, chocolate and much more. Entrepreneurs donate personal hygiene products and seasonal clothing, among which you can find jackets, boots and thermal underwear, as well as essential medicines, building materials and even military equipment, including quadcopters and entire columns of cars.

    More information about the activities of the capital Department of Trade and Services you can find out inofficial telegram channel departments.

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

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: More than 108 thousand young Muscovites attended educational days at the museum

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Last academic year, over 108 thousand schoolchildren took part in the project “School Day at the Museum”. Young Muscovites attended over 4.2 thousand educational classes. This was reported by the press service of the capital’s Department of Education and Science.

    “The “School Day at the Museum” project allows students in grades 1-11 to attend educational lessons at cultural institutions, where they study school subjects and complete various assignments. This format helps to better absorb the material and practice research skills. The project unites more than 40 different sites in city, federal, departmental and private museums. Among the most popular in the past academic year were the Cosmonautics Museum, the Moscow Zoo, the Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve, the State Sports Museum and the State Museum of the Defense of Moscow,” the department’s press service reported.

    More than 250 interactive lessons in all subjects have been developed for students in grades 1–11. More than 110 of them can be used online. For example, in a math lesson at the Cosmonautics Museum, fourth-graders learn how Yuri Gagarin landed, down to the mileage and time. They determine at what altitude and for how long the cosmonauts can find themselves in zero gravity on board the laboratory aircraft. Young researchers also analyze infographics from the Soyuz-Apollo program to build a chronology of the crews’ flights. And in a chemistry lesson at the State Sports Museum, eighth-ninth-graders study the properties of metals and alloys from which sports awards from different years are made.

    Each school day has three to five lessons taught by school subject teachers. They use materials developed by museum staff and specialists from the Institute for the Development of Specialized Education at the Moscow City Pedagogical University.

    Elizaveta Illarionova, a sixth-grader at School No. 2087 Otkrytie, said that this year she attended study days at the Timiryazev State Biological Museum and the Cosmonautics Museum. She liked the biological museum the most because she loves biology and wants to become an anesthesiologist in the future. Elizaveta noted that there was a large exposition with plants and animals, and they also carried out interesting tasks. The children compared the characteristics of various fungi and bacteria, looked for answers to questions in the halls, redrew tree bark and found out what it was needed for. According to the schoolgirl, it was as dark as space in the Cosmonautics Museum. She remembered the models of asteroids and rockets, as well as the story of the launch of the first artificial satellite and animal flights.

    New sites regularly join the project. This year, its participants included the Borodino Battle Panorama Museum, the State Archives of the Russian Federation, the Alfred Mirek Museum of Russian Accordion, and the Radio and Television Museum of the Interactive Polytechnic Museum Dedushkin Attic.

    “The “School Day at the Museum” project allows schoolchildren to leave the formal environment for an informal one, learn to work in a team and expand their horizons with the help of the educational opportunities of Moscow museums. Every year, new sites join the project, which are able to give children an interesting experience in studying school subjects. This format allows for the best use of the museum exposition opportunities to achieve subject results, familiarize themselves with the rich history and culture of our country, and effectively use the socio-cultural space of the capital in the educational activities of schoolchildren,” the press service noted.

    Department of Culture of the City of Moscow.

    The project “Educational Day at the Museum” was launched in 2017. It was developed by the capital’s Department of Education and Science AndDepartment of CultureThe operator on behalf of the Department of Education and Science was the Institute for the Development of Specialized Education Moscow City Pedagogical University, and from the Department of Culture – Moscow Directorate for the Development of Cultural Centers (Mosrazvitie).

    Any school in the city can join the project. To do this, the teacher needs to fill out an electronic application atproject websiteThe materials necessary for conducting classes are also located here.

    A conscious choice of a professional trajectory, as well as providing conditions for satisfying the creative interests and abilities of schoolchildren are the key tasks of the “Professionalism” and “All the Best for Children” projects of the national project “Youth and Children”.

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

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The Fast Treasury Payments service has launched in Moscow

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The “Fast Treasury Payments” service has been launched in Moscow in the public procurement system. This is one of the important stages in the development of a technological platform for managing public finances, reported Elena Zyabbarova, Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the capital’s Department of Finance. The purpose of the service is to robotize operations in settlements under government contracts within the framework of treasury services.

    The Fast Treasury Payments project was implemented as a result of combining in a single circuit data from a single automated information system for trades, a supplier portal, an automated information system for managing the budget process, a single accounting system, and a single information system in the sphere of public procurement. This made it possible to synchronize the processing of data on government contracts from the moment they are concluded until payment and to make payments automatically.

    “The service has improved the quality of services for clients – contractors and suppliers – recipients of budget funds. It has made it possible to automate and speed up the execution of routine operations by employees of financial services of capital organizations and the city treasury on the formation of payment documents, their verification and approval of payment of monetary obligations of city executive authorities and institutions subordinate to them,” Elena Zyabbarova emphasized.

    Every year, Moscow treasurers process over 1.7 million payment orders for concluded contracts. Their validity is checked and payment is authorized manually and can take up to one day. On average, over 44 thousand documents are returned to suppliers and contractors for revision due to improper preparation. And the labor costs associated with the execution of payment orders reach almost 200 thousand man-hours per year.

    In the “Fast Treasury Payments” service, data is generated immediately upon signing a contract. During execution, the system automatically checks the compliance of its terms with electronic acts on acceptance of goods, works and services. Based on this data, the service independently creates a draft payment order. It is signed by the customer, and the documents are transferred to the Moscow City Treasury, where automatic verification and authorization of payment occurs. At the same time, data on the settlements made and information on the execution of the contract are received in the unified procurement information system.

    Elena Zyabbarova added that the service had been operating in test mode for over six months. The quality check was successful, and today everything is ready for its implementation in the system of execution of state contracts. The test results showed that “Fast Treasury Payments” allow to significantly increase the efficiency of settlements due to the robotization of standard operations and reduction of the number of errors. The number of payment documents returned by the treasury for revision has noticeably decreased. The labor costs of contractors and suppliers – recipients of budget funds associated with their preparation have decreased by 75 percent. The average time of automatic verification of payment details, contract parameters and payment approval was about seven seconds. The emergence of the service will allow to conduct all operations on state contracts concluded by executive authorities and institutions under the 44th federal law and financed from the Moscow budget, in automatic mode.

    The use of the project has shown that the tools underlying the service can be scaled. The Moscow Department of Finance plans to implement it in the processes of providing subsidies and grants to state and non-state organizations.

    The project is an important stage in the development of the city procurement system, which involves a complete transition to digital contracts and automation of all stages of their execution. The functionality of “Fast Treasury Payments” is being implemented by the Moscow Department of Finance together with Department of Information Technology capitals and Main Control Directorate cities.

    Information on the development of budget management technologies in Moscow can be found in telegram channel Department of Finance of Moscow and on the portal “Open Budget of the City of Moscow”.

    Get the latest news quickly official telegram channel the city of Moscow.

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    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/155381073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Capital manufacturers have created high-tech developments for laser marking

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Moscow is a leading center for the development of high-tech industry in Russia. Moscow companies demonstrate a high level of competence, creating competitive technological developments for laser marking. This was reported by the Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the capital’s Department of Investment and Industrial Policy Anatoly Garbuzov.

    “The development of domestic laser products in industry is of key importance for technological independence and competitiveness. Laser technologies are actively used in mechanical engineering, microelectronics, medicine and other industries, ensuring high precision and efficiency of production processes. Today, there are more than 260 enterprises operating in the mechanical engineering sector of Moscow. The city provides them with over 20 comprehensive support tools – from preferential investment loans to assigning special statuses. Enterprises from various industries can use them. The high demand for the developments of Moscow companies proves their ability to meet the key needs of the industry,” noted Anatoly Garbuzov.

    For example, the leading capital manufacturer of laser equipment, the Lassard company, which is based at the Pechatniki production site of the Technopolis Moscow special economic zone, presented a new product – an ultraviolet laser engraving machine for cold marking of sensitive materials: plastic, glass, thin metals. After the presentation of the equipment, the company received five pre-orders. The company continues to increase production. Since the beginning of the year, 21 laser engraving machines have been manufactured – this is eight units more than for the same period in 2024. This year, it is planned to expand the range by producing 3D laser engraving units and special machines for the aerospace industry. The company has been operating in the special economic zone since 2023. During this time, it has produced more than 100 units of innovative products, which are supplied to all regions of Russia.

    Thanks to advanced labeling solutions, Moscow-based technological equipment company Callisto has implemented a comprehensive equipment package for a new soft drink plant. This was done using a system for directly applying Data Matrix codes to drink caps, as well as a laser machine for marking aluminum caps, which allows for marking on a separate production line before the finished product is capped. Both solutions ensure high speed and quality of marking without affecting the technological process.

    “We are proud to participate in such a large-scale project. Our systems were developed by Russian engineers and ensure uninterrupted marking even at maximum load of production lines,” said the company’s CEO Pavel Bulgakov.

    The introduction of advanced labeling solutions has become part of the complex technological equipment of the enterprise. The plant is highly automated: the frontal storage warehouse for finished products is robotized, and the production lines are serviced by five employees. The production complex was built from scratch exclusively using funds from Russian investors, without attracting foreign capital. The volume of investment in the construction and equipment of the plant exceeded 10 billion rubles. The capacity of the enterprise is up to 800 million units of production per year.

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

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: How mediators help Muscovites resolve conflicts

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    International Mediation Day is celebrated on June 18. Moscow has unique specialists — mediators — who help city residents resolve conflicts and disputes. You can get their support at family centers and the Center for Mediation and Social and Legal Assistance. Thanks to the specialists, in almost 70 percent of cases it is possible to find a solution that suits both parties.

    People turn to mediators when there are disagreements in a couple, difficulties in communication between children and parents. The main goal of specialists is to help reach an agreement and find a solution that takes into account the interests of everyone, to maintain or restore relationships.

    Conflicts between spouses

    The mediation procedure is effective in a family crisis. Spouses can contact specialists at any stage of the conflict. The mediator will help resolve the conflict, and if this is impossible, get a divorce calmly and without lengthy court proceedings. Last year, a project was launched for couples without children who filed a joint application for divorce at the My Documents government services center. Within a month after that, they can receive a mediator’s consultation: take a fresh look at the current situation, find a way out of the crisis and, possibly, save the relationship.

    For example, Olga and Pavel were on the verge of a breakup. At the My Documents government services center, the couple accepted an offer to participate in the project. Mediators held several sessions with the spouses, helped identify key points on which their opinions diverge: budget planning, respect for personal boundaries, and the format of joint leisure. The parties voiced their positions and, with the support of a specialist, found a compromise.

    “The mediator managed to restore communication between the young spouses and help them come to agreements that saved the marriage. After completing the work with the specialist, Olga and Pavel went on a trip to Sochi. It turned out that this was what both had wanted for a long time, but could not voice to each other due to tense relations,” said Olga Gracheva, head of the Center for Mediation and Social and Legal Assistance (branch of the Center “Assistance”) of the capital

    Department of Labor and Social Protection of the Population.

    When the union cannot be saved, the mediator helps to transfer the current relationship to the stage of completed and agree on the future. Olga Gracheva noted that this is important, especially if the spouses have children. Specialists will help to understand the family conflict, using mediation tools and will provide psychological support. The result of the negotiations will be a mediation agreement, which will reflect all the agreements.

    Working with children

    Family center specialists instill a culture of communication in the younger generation and teach them conflict resolution skills. In the young mediators club, teenagers aged 12 to 18, under the guidance of experienced mentors, master mediation technologies and develop personal competencies that help build effective communication in everyday life. The kids learn to listen, hear, and find compromises.

    “The knowledge that the children received in the young mediators’ club is not just theory, it is an opportunity to look at conflicts from a different angle, to understand themselves and others, to get real tools and learn how to use them. We help develop awareness, teach how to manage emotions, find a common language with others and take responsibility,” said Marina Kalmykova, head of the mediation service of family centers.

    For example, Daniil’s parents and grandparents were constantly arguing about his future. The schoolboy found himself a hostage to the situation. Adults insisted that he go to 10th grade and then continue his education at a law school. As summer approached, the situation in the family became tense. Daniil did not want to be a lawyer and felt guilty for his choice. At the young mediators’ club, the boy learned conflict resolution techniques that could be applied in the current situation. He talked to his relatives one by one, listened to their opinions and wishes. The boy told his relatives that he was not attracted to the legal profession and that he wanted to be an engineer. Adults accepted this choice and helped him choose a suitable educational institution. Daniil noted that the young mediators’ club taught him to communicate without conflicts, seek compromises, and talk about his needs and desires.

    Mediation is a modern and effective way of resolving conflicts, allowing to find a solution that will satisfy both parties to the dispute. With the support of an independent intermediary – a mediator – the participants come to a compromise taking into account the interests of each.

    In Moscow, spouses with children can use mediation services in family centers AndCenter for Mediation and Social and Legal Assistance. It is free for all Muscovites, you can sign up by phone: 7 499 369-01-90 oron the website.

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

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Scientists have uncovered the genetic basis behind the evolution of ants

    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

    SHENZHEN, June 18 (Xinhua) — Scientists from the Global Ant Genomics Alliance (GAGA) published a groundbreaking study in the international scientific journal Cell on Monday, revealing the genetic basis behind major adaptive changes in ants’ evolution and their social traits that evolved in parallel.

    Despite their small size, ants demonstrate impressive organizational skills. They are able to build intricate nests without using “language” to communicate, and they have the most rigorous system of division of labor.

    By analyzing whole-genome data from 163 ant species collected from around the world, the research team reconstructed the evolutionary tree of the ant family, covering 12 of the 16 extant subfamilies.

    The study sheds light on the complex phylogenetic relationships between ant species and traces the common ancestor of modern ants back to the late Jurassic period – about 157 million years ago – shedding light on the origins of ant organizational structure during the age of dinosaurs.

    Scientists have found that ant gene families associated with olfactory perception were significantly expanded in the common ancestor’s genome, suggesting that it already possessed key molecular mechanisms for social communication.

    The study also found that different ant species exhibit different mechanisms that regulate which ants become queens and which become workers, reflecting their adaptive evolution through natural selection.

    The study involved scientists from Zhejiang University, the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Nanchang University and BGI Research in China, as well as scientists from the University of Copenhagen in Denmark and the University of Münster in Germany. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: US has full control over the skies over Iran – D. Trump

    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

    NEW YORK, June 17 (Xinhua) — The United States has full control over Iranian airspace, US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday.

    “We now have complete and total control over the Iranian skies,” he said.

    “Iran had good tracking and other defense equipment, and plenty of it, but it doesn’t compare to what was made, designed, and manufactured in America. No one does it better than the good ol’ USA,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.

    D. Trump left the Group of Seven (G7) summit in Canada late Monday, a day earlier than expected, amid an exchange of missile strikes between Israel and Iran.

    Earlier on Tuesday, Trump said he wanted a “real end” to the conflict, not just a truce. He also told the Truth Social website that the United States knows where Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is hiding, calling him an “easy target” and calling for Iran’s “unconditional surrender.”

    “I think they know not to touch our troops,” Trump said of Iran, warning that the United States would not hold back if it had to respond.

    In an interview with ABC News on Sunday, the White House chief said the United States was not involved in Israel’s military strikes on Iran, but did not rule out the possibility.

    Israel has called on the United States to join the conflict with Iran to dismantle its nuclear program, local media reported. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Los Angeles Mayor Lifts Downtown Curfew

    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

    LOS ANGELES, June 17 (Xinhua) — Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass on Tuesday lifted a weeklong curfew in part of the center of the second-largest U.S. city.

    “The curfew, coupled with ongoing crime prevention efforts, has gone a long way to protecting stores, restaurants, businesses and neighborhoods from attackers who have no regard for the immigrant community,” Bass said in a statement.

    “I am lifting the curfew effective today, and as we continue to quickly adapt to the chaos emanating from Washington, I will be prepared to reimpose the curfew if needed,” the mayor said, adding that “the priority will remain ensuring safety, stability, and support in downtown areas.”

    On Monday afternoon, Bass announced that the curfew would be shortened by two hours because crime prevention efforts had been largely successful. The change followed an earlier order issued on June 10 that set the curfew from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. local time. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Announcement of sixth batch of recognised medical qualifications under Medical Registration Ordinance

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         In accordance with the Medical Registration Ordinance (MRO), the Registrar of Medical Practitioners (i.e. the Director of Health) announced today (June 18) the sixth batch of 22 medical qualifications (see Annex 1) recognised by the Special Registration Committee (SRC). The list will be gazetted on June 20 and take effect on the same day. It will be submitted to the Legislative Council for negative vetting on June 25. Together with the first five batches of recognised medical qualifications announced, the SRC has so far recognised a total of 150 medical qualifications (see Annex 2).

         The MRO provides that non-locally trained doctors who possess recognised medical qualifications, subject to their fulfilment of certain criteria, may apply for special registration to practise in the public healthcare institutions in Hong Kong (i.e. the Hospital Authority, the Department of Health, the University of Hong Kong and the Chinese University of Hong Kong). After serving for a certain period, obtaining recognised specialist qualifications and passing the assessment, they will be granted full registration to practise in Hong Kong. For non-locally trained medical graduates who possess recognised medical qualifications but have yet to undergo an internship outside Hong Kong, subject to their fulfilment of the relevant criteria, they may take the Licensing Examination of the Medical Council of Hong Kong (MCHK) in order to apply for special registration to practise in the public healthcare institutions in Hong Kong. They may also obtain full registration after meeting the requirements applicable to all special registration doctors.

         The SRC under the MCHK is responsible for determining the list of recognised medical qualifications upon reviewing the programmes offered by non-local medical schools with quality comparable to those provided by the two medical schools in Hong Kong and submitting the list to the Registrar of Medical Practitioners for promulgation. When determining the list of recognised medical qualifications, the SRC will consider and recommend a medical qualification that fulfils the following criteria:
    (a) that is at the level of degree or higher;
    (b) that is awarded by a body broadly comparable to any local university awarding medical qualifications in terms of international rankings; and
    (c) that is broadly comparable to the medical qualifications awarded by any local university in terms of:
    (i) the curriculum of the programmes leading to the medical qualifications;
    (ii) the medium of instruction of the programmes; and
    (iii) any other aspects the SRC considers appropriate.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy: Unregulated AI Will Destroy Our Economy and Culture

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    June 17, 2025

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Monday wrote a Substack post sounding the alarm on the existential risks unregulated artificial intelligence pose to America’s economy and collective well-being. Murphy advocated for strong government policy and intervention to ensure that citizens, rather than corporate interests, are managing the transformational effects of this new technology and protected from the worst of its potential harms.
    “A fraud is being perpetuated on the American people and our pliant, gullible political leaders.” Murphy wrote. “If America does not protect its economy and culture from the potential ravages of advanced AI, our nation will rot from the inside out, giving China a free lane to pass us politically and economically.”
    Murphy stressed that unregulated AI will ship jobs overseas, permanently hollow out the American job market, and leave workers with no recourse: “The job displacement will be massive and devastating. That’s just common sense… Not enough jobs will be created to replace the jobs we lose, and even the new jobs likely won’t stay in the United States due to the industry’s insatiable desire to maximize profits… the industry doesn’t really care about creating U.S.-based infrastructure or jobs. They are hunting profits, and to boost return on investment, without any guardrails imposed on them by government, they will use the same labor arbitrage techniques that other industries utilize and ship as many AI jobs as they can to countries with lower labor costs.”
    Speaking from discussions with industry leaders, Murphy slammed the tech companies’ reckless disregard for the human impact of their technology: “The only value that guides the AI industry right now is the pursuit of profit. In all my meetings, it was crystal clear that companies like Google and Apple and OpenAI and Anthropic are in a race to deploy consumer-facing, job-killing AGI as quickly as possible, in order to beat each other to the market. Any talk about ethical or moral AI is just whitewash… They are in such a hurry that they can’t even explain how the large language models they are marketing come to conclusions or synthesize data. Every single executive I met with admitted that they had built a machine that they could not understand or control.”
    Murphy pushed back against the common argument that targeted regulations would undercut innovation and enable China to win the AI race: “This argument assumes, wrongly, that the Chinese will put no constraints on the development and dissemination of their own AI models. We know this isn’t true because as we speak, China is being relatively careful with how it develops and rolls out AI. From 2021 to 2023, China began to build out a governance framework with some of the world’s earliest AI regulations and technical standards, bringing service providers into compliance on issues from ethics, data protection, safety, and security…That China has been actively building towards a national AI law, while producing a cutting-edge model like DeepSeek’s, makes clear that AI regulation and innovation can, and do, co-exist.” 
    Murphy concluded: “I want to beat China in the race for advanced AI. I do. But not at any cost. If we do not use government policy and intervention to control for the job loss and to protect consumers, it won’t matter that we get to AGI before China. Unbounded, AGI could eliminate so many jobs and undermine so many of our values, that China will cheer our decision to rush to AGI in our blind, feverish desire to be first. Ultimately, China could end up winning the race, because we destroy ourselves along the race route.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Serious Crash, Nelson

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Emergency services are in attendance following a serious crash on Trafalgar Street in Nelson.

    Police were notified at around 3:15pm this afternoon after a pedestrian was struck by a vehicle.

    At this stage it appears they have suffered serious injuries.

    Traffic is currently flowing. Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are underway.

    ENDS.

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Further appeal for missing west Auckland teenager

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Police is issuing a further appeal to west Aucklanders who may have come across missing teenager Alexander.

    An updated sighting and description of the 15-year-old boy from Oratia has been obtained.

    Alexander was reported missing to Police at about 8.30pm on 16 June.

    Earlier that day, he was dropped off at Henderson High School at about 8.15am but didn’t attend classes.

    Further enquiries today have established a possible sighting of Alexander in the Henderson area.

    That sighting was on Monday morning at about 9am on Forrest Hill Road, near the intersection with Pine Avenue.

    He was described as wearing dark shorts, brown tramping boots, and carrying a dark-coloured tramping pack.

    Alexander is a competent in the outdoors, and frequently spends time in the bush.

    However, Police has concerns for him given his age and the weather conditions the Auckland region is currently experiencing.

    Police is interested in hearing from anyone who might have seen Alexander in the wider area, or interacted with him.

    If you see Alexander, please call 111.

    Anyone with further information can also updated Police online now or call 105 using the reference number 250616/4732.

    ENDS.

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ20: Carbon emission reduction

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Following is a question by the Hon Adrian Ho and a written reply by the Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Mr Tse Chin-wan, in the Legislative Council today (June 18):
      
    Question:
     
    In October 2021, the Government announced Hong Kong’s Climate Action Plan 2050, which aims to reduce Hong Kong’s carbon emissions by half from the 2005 level before 2035 and outlines four major decarbonisation strategies, namely net-zero electricity generation, energy saving and green buildings, green transport and waste reduction. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) whether it will duly adjust its green policies in response to Hong Kong’s actual carbon emissions in recent years to accelerate the overall pace of decarbonisation in Hong Kong and thus achieve its carbon reduction targets as scheduled;
     
    (2) of the respective performances of various government departments over the past five years in key carbon reduction measures, such as energy saving, emission reduction, consumption and carbon emission reduction, as well as green procurement; whether government departments have set carbon reduction targets and timetables for the series of policy measures implemented in recent years, including the establishment of the Green Technology and Finance Development Committee and the implementation of the Uncertificated Securities Market initiative;
     
    (3) as there are views that the broad participation of businesses in decarbonisation efforts is vital for Hong Kong to achieve carbon neutrality, how many businesses and organisations have, as of May this year, joined the “Green Hong Kong．Carbon Audit” campaign by signing the Carbon Reduction Charter and agreeing to undertake and implement activities in support of reducing greenhouse gas emissions; whether it has assessed the effectiveness of the participating businesses and organisations in formulating and implementing carbon reduction measures;
     
    (4) as it is learnt that the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited established the Hong Kong International Carbon Market Council and subsequently launched an international carbon marketplace “Core Climate” in 2022, whether Government is aware of the current operational status of both the Council and Core Climate, as well as their respective effectiveness in promoting the implementation of decarbonisation measures among businesses in Hong Kong; and
     
    (5) given that green transport is one of the Government’s decarbonisation strategies, which includes achieving zero vehicular emissions and zero carbon emissions in the transport sector before 2050 through promoting the electrification of vehicles, and ceasing new registrations of fuel-propelled and hybrid private cars in or before 2035, whether the Government has assessed if the current progress of such efforts will enable the carbon reduction targets to be achieved on schedule?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
    In consultation with the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau, the reply to the question raised by the Hon Adrian Ho is as follows:
     
    (1) The Government has proposed four major decarbonisation strategies in the Hong Kong’s Climate Action Plan 2050, namely net-zero electricity generation, energy saving and green buildings, green transport and waste reduction, to lead Hong Kong to halve its carbon emissions from the 2005 level by 2035, with a view to achieving carbon neutrality before 2050. With our efforts in recent years in these four decarbonisation strategies, Hong Kong is making steady progress towards the carbon reduction target of 2035.
     
    Hong Kong’s total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions have been on a downward trend after reaching its peak in 2014. With the gradual replacement of coal-fired power generation by natural gas and zero-carbon energy, the popularisation of electric vehicles, the reduction of municipal solid waste disposal, and the increased recovery and use of landfill gas for energy generation in Hong Kong, the total GHG emissions in 2023 were reduced by about 20 per cent from the 2005 level and about a quarter from the peak in 2014. The per capita GHG emissions in 2023 was 4.58 tonnes, which is a new low since 1990. It is nearly 30 per cent lower than those in 2005 and 2014, and is about a quarter of that of the United States and 60 per cent of that of the European Union.

    Combating climate change is a long-term task. In line with the spirit of the Paris Agreement, we will review the Hong Kong’s Climate Action Plan 2050 about every five years to update the strategies and targets for decarbonisation and other climate actions, and expect to release the review result in 2026.
     
    (2) To enhance the performance of government departments in energy conservation and carbon emissions, the Government has promulgated relevant internal circulars and guidelines to require departments to perform well in the area of environmental protection in their daily operations. Specific measures include energy conservation, adoption of renewable energy (RE), waste reduction and recycling, installation of electric vehicle charging facilities, water conservation and recycling, procurement of green products and services, etc. with a view to reducing carbon emissions. These government circulars and guidelines cover environmental targets for government buildings, carbon emission management, preparation of environmental reports by government departments, as well as green procurement, etc.
     
    The Government strives to improve the overall energy performance of government buildings and infrastructure by more than 6 per cent in 2024-25, compared to the 2018-19 baseline. To this end, the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) has requested all bureaux and departments (B/Ds) to provide information on the energy consumption and RE of government buildings and facilities annually, and organised briefing sessions to discuss energy performance, and provides technical advice on energy-saving measures and planning of RE projects. As at 2022-23, the Government’s overall energy performance has improved by about 5.3 per cent. While the data for 2023-24 is still being compiled, based on the recent trends in energy performance, the Government is confident that the target of over 6 per cent improvement can be achieved. The Environment and Ecology Bureau (EEB) will continue to encourage all B/Ds to take measures to enhance energy performance and explore means to leverage innovative technologies to promote cost-effective solutions for improving energy efficiency in government buildings. 
    (3) The Government launched the “Green Hong Kong．Carbon Audit” campaign with a view to encouraging organisations of various sectors to support greenhouse gas emission reduction activities. The participating organisations would, according to their respective situations, formulate and implement carbon reduction measures such as promoting carbon audits, establishing environmental management systems, and installing and replacing energy-efficient office equipment. Currently, over 140 organisations, including property management companies, universities, professional bodies, non-profit-making organisations and other business organisations, have joined the “Green Hong Kong．Carbon Audit” campaign. In addition to raising the awareness of participating organisations in carbon reduction and encouraging these organisations to conduct carbon audits and implement carbon reduction plans, the campaign also helps corporates prepare for addressing new climate-related disclosure requirements.
     
    The Government launched in December last year the Roadmap on Sustainability Disclosure in Hong Kong (Roadmap), injecting new impetus into the carbon management work of large publicly accountable entities (PAEs) (including large listed issuers and non-listed financial institutions carrying a significant weight). As the first step, Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX) has introduced new climate-related disclosures requirements (New Climate Requirements) which have been developed based on International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) S2 Climate-related Disclosures. The New Climate Requirements, covering, among others, mandating all listed issuers to disclose scope 1 and scope 2 GHG emissions, have been implemented in phases starting from January 2025. 
    (4) HKEX launched the Hong Kong International Carbon Market Council (the Council) in July 2022, with members comprising Mainland, Hong Kong, and international corporates and financial institutions, to facilitate the development of an efficient and effective Hong Kong-based international carbon market with best-in-class market infrastructure, products and services, promoting the transition to a low-carbon economy in the region.
     
    Subsequently, HKEX launched the Core Climate, an international carbon marketplace, in October in the same year, facilitating effective and transparent trading of carbon credits and instruments to support the global transition to Net Zero. It offers quality carbon credits from internationally-certified projects in Asia, South America and Africa, covering forestry, solar, wind and biomass initiatives. Core Climate is currently the only carbon marketplace that offers HKD and RMB settlement for the trading of international voluntary carbon credits. The platform’s participant number reached 100 by end of 2024. Core Climate has facilitated carbon credit trading by various corporates through the provision of trustworthy settlement services, enhancing efficiency and mitigating risks, including Cathay Pacific Airways Limited’s settlement of 50 000 tonnes of voluntary carbon credits in December last year, fully demonstrating the important role of Core Climate in supporting corporates on their climate transition journey. 
    (5) The Government is committed to promoting the use of electric vehicles (EV). The Hong Kong Roadmap on Popularisation of Electric Vehicles announced in March 2021 covers policy directions and targets in various areas in promoting the adoption of new energy transport technologies, so as to guide Hong Kong towards zero vehicular emissions before 2050. In recent years, Hong Kong has achieved remarkable results in the popularisation of EV. The number of EV was eightfold from about 14 000 five years ago to about 110 000 at the end of last year. Currently, about seven out of every ten newly registered private cars are electric private cars (e-PC), and the proportion is among the highest in the world, with a good growth momentum.
     
    Charging network is critical to the popularisation of EV. As of March 2025, Hong Kong had nearly 100 000 parking spaces equipped with charging infrastructure. There are 11 180 public charging facilities, of which about 2 000 are quick or fast charging facilities. We will continue to adopt a multi-pronged approach to increase charging facilities, including (i) tightening the exemption measure for calculating the gross floor area of buildings to encourage parking spaces in new private buildings to be equipped with charging infrastructure; and (ii) launching the $3.5 billion “EV-charging at Home Subsidy Scheme” to assist existing private residential buildings and housing estate car parks to install EV charging infrastructure. It is estimated that by mid-2027, more than 200 000 parking spaces in private buildings will be equipped with charging infrastructure.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Diamond Energy pays penalties for failing to adequately communicate pricing information to consumers

    Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development

    Electricity provider Diamond Energy Pty Ltd has paid $46,950 in penalties after the ACCC issued it with three infringement notices for allegedly breaching the Electricity Retail Code (the Code).

    Under the Code, electricity retailers must provide certain information about pricing, such as the lowest possible price, to help consumers compare different electricity plans.

    The three infringement notices relate to allegations that Diamond Energy failed to communicate mandatory information to three of its customers.

    The ACCC has also accepted a court-enforceable undertaking from Diamond Energy in which it has admitted it contravened the Code.

    Diamond Energy admitted that in June 2024 it sent communications to 12,809 customers which failed to include the required pricing information under the Code, when notifying these customers of price changes to their electricity plans.

    Diamond Energy also admitted that it failed to include on its website some of the required pricing information under the Code between 1 January and 30 June 2024 in relation to 44 of its electricity plans, and then also between 1 July and 20 September 2024 in relation to a further 44 plans.

    “By not disclosing the required pricing information to its customers, Diamond Energy has impacted consumers’ ability to make an informed decision when comparing prices across electricity retailers,” ACCC Commissioner Anna Brakey said.

    “It is vital that electricity retailers provide consumers with accurate information so they can compare and access the most competitive prices in the market.”

    In the court-enforceable undertaking, Diamond Energy has committed to introduce a compliance program to ensure it complies with the Code.

    “We will continue to monitor electricity providers to ensure they adequately disclose pricing information to consumers,” Ms Brakey said.

    What electricity retailers must tell consumers

    The Code requires retailers to include certain information when it communicates its offered prices to residential and small business customers by advertising or publishing the price, offering to supply electricity at that price, or notifying the customer of a change to the price.

    Consumers who believe their retailer has failed to provide the required information should in the first instance contact their retailer, which is obliged to inform them of this information under the Code.

    The undertaking is available at Diamond Energy Pty Ltd.

    Notes to editors

    The ACCC can issue an infringement notice when it has reasonable grounds to believe a person or business has contravened certain provisions of an industry code.

    A person or business is not regarded has having contravened the provision of the industry code merely by paying the penalty specified in an infringement notice.

    Background

    The Code applies to electricity retailers that supply electricity to residential and small business customers in applicable distribution regions in New South Wales, South Australia, and South East Queensland. Diamond Energy is a retail electricity supplier in these regions.

    Since the Code was introduced in 2019, the ACCC has issued infringement notices to Locality Planning Energy, CovaU, ReAmped Energy and Dodo Power & Gas for allegedly failing to include certain mandatory information when communicating prices. The ACCC has also accepted a court-enforceable undertaking from CovaU and Dodo in response to breaches of the Code.

    In September 2024, the Federal Court ordered Energy Australia pay penalties of $14 million for making false, misleading or deceptive statements to around 566,000 consumers about electricity prices and failing to provide mandatory information required by the Code.

    One of the ACCC’s Compliance and Enforcement Priorities for 2025-26 is ‘misleading pricing and claims in relation to essential services, with a particular focus on energy and telecommunications’.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Concrete consequences for GST crooks

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    The Australian Taxation Office’s (ATO) relentless pursuit against GST fraud sees 3 more individuals sentenced in June 2025 under Operation Protego.

    These latest sentencings bring the total of Operation Protego offenders convicted in May and June to 6, joining the ranks of over 100 individuals sentenced to date.

    ATO Deputy Commissioner and Serious Financial Crime Taskforce (SFCT) Chief John Ford said the recent convictions show that the ATO is bringing criminals who commit GST fraud to justice.

    ‘Our compliance and debt recovery actions demonstrate that we are addressing fraud. Where we see deliberate attempts to cheat the system, there will be severe consequences.’

    ‘These crooks face long-term consequences. Not only do they need to repay the money, but they now have a criminal record set in stone, which may affect their ability to secure employment, obtain finance or insurance and travel overseas.’

    ‘GST fraud steals funds that could have been used to support community services such as healthcare, infrastructure and education, instead of funding offenders’ personal luxuries,’ Mr Ford said.

    The following sentencings show the ATO is working with cross-agency partners through the SFCT, including law enforcement agencies, to bring criminal consequences, not just financial consequences, for GST fraudsters:

    • Ms Darnelle Te Kiri was sentenced to 17 months imprisonment in the Melbourne County Court contrary to section 134.2(1) of the Criminal Code (Cth) for fraudulently obtaining $202,936 through false business activity statements (BAS). Ms Te Kiri registered an ABN in 2021 for hospitality and bar work services and lodged 8 false BAS over 7 months, claiming to have spent over $2 million in purchases despite reporting little to no income. An ATO audit found no evidence of a legitimate business. The funds were spent on rent, groceries, pubs and gaming, ATM withdrawals, and transfers to third parties and international money services. She was released immediately on $1,000 recognisance, to be of good behaviour for 2 years and ordered to repay the full $202,936.
    • Mr Daniel Copeland was sentenced to 3 years imprisonment to be released after serving 12 months in the Newcastle District Court contrary to section 134.2(1) of the Criminal Code (Cth) for fraudulently obtaining over $1.1 million in GST refunds from the ATO. Mr Copeland registered an Australian business number (ABN) for a plastering services business and submitted 23 false BAS in 2021. An ATO audit was unable to identify any evidence of the Offender’s purported enterprise and that he was not entitled to claim the GST refunds. The funds were used for gambling, personal living expenses, accommodation, purchases at a car dealership and cash withdrawals. He was released on $100 recognisance, to be of good behaviour for 5 years and ordered to repay the full $1.1 million.
    • Mr Tewhanaupani Nukunuku was sentenced to 2 years and 3 months imprisonment to be released after serving 9 months on recognisance release order requiring him to give security in the sum of $1000 on condition he be of good behaviour for 2 years. Mr Nukunuku pleaded guilty in the Melbourne County Court for one offence of obtaining a financial advantage of $168,000 by deception from the Commonwealth and one offence of attempting to obtain a further $100,000 in GST refunds. He claimed to operate a concreting business and lodged 8 false BAS over a 6-month period. An ATO audit found he was not in business and did not hold the necessary registration or license to perform the claimed work. The funds were partly spent on some luxury items including retail expenses and a car. He was also ordered to repay the full $168,000.

    These sentencing outcomes are a direct result of the ATO’s sustained and strategic efforts to prevent, detect, investigate and prosecute serious financial crime.

    Mr Ford said these results are not just numbers; they represent our strong and ongoing commitment to protecting the integrity of Australia’s tax and super systems.

    These matters were prosecuted by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (Cth) (CDPP) following a referral from the ATO.

    You can confidentially report suspected tax crime or fraud to us by making a tip-off online or calling 1800 060 062.

    For more information about Operation Protego including recent sentencings, visit ato.gov.au/protego.

    Notes to journalists

    • As part of Operation Protego, the ATO has applied treatment against more than 57,000 alleged offenders. Those involved in this fraud have already been handed in the order of $300 million in penalties and interest.
    • As at 31 May 2025, 112 people have been convicted with a range of sentencing outcomes, including jail terms of up to 7 years and 6 months and with orders made to restrain real property.
    • The ATO has finalised 62 investigations and referred 52 briefs of evidence to the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions.
    • A high-resolution headshot of Deputy Commissioner and Serious Financial Crime Taskforce Chief John FordThis link will download a file is available from the ATO media centre.
    • ATO stock footage and images is available for download and use in news bulletins from the ATO media centre.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Ice hockey movie ‘Never Give Up’ delivers inspiring message

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

    “Never Give Up,” a new film releasing in August, portrays the inspirational journey of parents who use love and wisdom to support their daughter’s pursuit of ice hockey glory against all odds.

    “Never Give Up” actors Pan Binlong, Hou Jiayin and Zuo Xiaoqing pose for a photo at the opening of the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival in Shanghai, June 14, 2025. [Photo courtesy of SIFF Organizing Committee]

    Written and directed by Qi Xing, the film stars Pan Binlong as a father whose unbreakable perseverance drives a decade-long mission to cure his daughter’s severe Achilles tendon contracture while nurturing her dream of playing ice hockey. With unyielding spirit, he helps her conquer physical and psychological barriers, proving extraordinary growth comes through relentless determination.

    Pan sheds his comedic persona to portray a father who gives everything to champion his daughter, played by Hou Jiayin. “The father figure I play in this film is completely different from my previous roles,” Pan said at a press event in Shanghai on June 15. “To give his daughter a better life, he challenges societal prejudices with wisdom and unyielding determination to overcome all obstacles. This father resembles the ordinary community elders I knew growing up — love was their greatest and most abundant resource.”

    Playing his wife is Zuo Xiaoqing, who takes on the role of a passionate mother who frequently clashes with him over their daughter’s welfare. Their dynamic as unconventional Chinese parents delivers compelling on-screen chemistry.

    Cast and crew of “Never Give Up” pose for a photo at a press event in Shanghai, June 15, 2025. [Photo courtesy of Huaxia Film]

    Director Qi stated at the press event that “Never Give Up” uses ice hockey as its backdrop because the sport epitomizes strength and tenacity. Through its portrayal of an unsung heroic father, the film delivers an emotionally powerful story about familial love, relentless perseverance and chasing one’s dreams.

    At the Shanghai press conference, held on Father’s Day, with the theme “tearing off old labels and redefining fatherly love,” the cast and crew shared their own heartwarming family memories and stories about fathers.

    “Never Give Up” will open in theaters nationwide on Aug. 8.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • Prime Minister meets Prime Minister Mark Carney on the sidelines of the G7 Summit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, on Tuesday.

    This was the first in-person interaction between the two leaders since Prime Minister Carney assumed office following Canada’s recent general elections. The meeting provided an opportunity for both sides to hold frank and forward-looking discussions on the state of India-Canada relations and the way ahead.

    The leaders reaffirmed the importance of India-Canada ties, based on shared democratic values, respect for the rule of law. and commitment to upholding the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity. They underlined the need to pursue a constructive and balanced partnership grounded in mutual respect for concerns and sensitivities, strong people-to-people ties, and growing economic complementarities. In this regard, both sides agreed to take calibrated and constructive steps to restore stability in the relationship, beginning with the early return of High Commissioners to each other’s capitals.

    They also emphasized the importance of restarting senior ministerial and working-level engagements across various domains to rebuild trust and inject momentum into the bilateral relationship.

    During their talks, the leaders discussed potential areas of future collaboration, including clean energy, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, liquefied natural gas (LNG), food security, critical minerals, higher education, mobility, and supply chain resilience. They reiterated their shared interest in promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific.

    The two leaders also stressed the importance of restarting negotiations on the stalled Early Progress Trade Agreement (EPTA), with a view to eventually concluding a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). To that end, they agreed to instruct their respective officials to intensify engagement.

    Both sides acknowledged the significant progress made at the G7 Summit and expressed their shared commitment to working together constructively on global priorities such as climate action, inclusive growth, and sustainable development.

    They further underlined the strength of the deep-rooted people-to-people ties between India and Canada, agreeing to leverage this living bridge for the benefit of both nations.

    The leaders concluded their meeting with a commitment to remain in touch and expressed hope to meet again at the earliest opportunity.

  • Prime Minister meets Prime Minister Mark Carney on the sidelines of the G7 Summit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, on Tuesday.

    This was the first in-person interaction between the two leaders since Prime Minister Carney assumed office following Canada’s recent general elections. The meeting provided an opportunity for both sides to hold frank and forward-looking discussions on the state of India-Canada relations and the way ahead.

    The leaders reaffirmed the importance of India-Canada ties, based on shared democratic values, respect for the rule of law. and commitment to upholding the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity. They underlined the need to pursue a constructive and balanced partnership grounded in mutual respect for concerns and sensitivities, strong people-to-people ties, and growing economic complementarities. In this regard, both sides agreed to take calibrated and constructive steps to restore stability in the relationship, beginning with the early return of High Commissioners to each other’s capitals.

    They also emphasized the importance of restarting senior ministerial and working-level engagements across various domains to rebuild trust and inject momentum into the bilateral relationship.

    During their talks, the leaders discussed potential areas of future collaboration, including clean energy, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, liquefied natural gas (LNG), food security, critical minerals, higher education, mobility, and supply chain resilience. They reiterated their shared interest in promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific.

    The two leaders also stressed the importance of restarting negotiations on the stalled Early Progress Trade Agreement (EPTA), with a view to eventually concluding a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). To that end, they agreed to instruct their respective officials to intensify engagement.

    Both sides acknowledged the significant progress made at the G7 Summit and expressed their shared commitment to working together constructively on global priorities such as climate action, inclusive growth, and sustainable development.

    They further underlined the strength of the deep-rooted people-to-people ties between India and Canada, agreeing to leverage this living bridge for the benefit of both nations.

    The leaders concluded their meeting with a commitment to remain in touch and expressed hope to meet again at the earliest opportunity.

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Update: Police drone launch in search for Elisabeth Nicholls

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Attribute to Detective Sergeant Lucy Aldridge of Christchurch Police:

    Police will be deploying a drone in central Christchurch tomorrow as part of ongoing efforts to locate missing woman Elisabeth ‘Lis’ Nicholls.

    The drone will be flying over the Riccarton and Hagley Park areas between 8am and midday, Thursday 19 June.

    Lis was last seen at the Chateau on the Park in Riccarton, on the evening of Wednesday 4 June, and Police and her family are desperate to locate her.

    Searchers and Police have gone door to door, reviewed CCTV footage and made extensive enquiries, “but we have not been able to find Lis,” DSS Aldridge says.

    “We do not know where she travelled to after the Chateau and have not been able to locate any items that would lead us closer to her.

    “We have grave concerns for Lis, and sincerely hope the use of a drone will help us find her,” she says.

    Police continue to appeal to the public for help in locating Lis, and urge people to continue checking your backyards, sheds and sleepouts, and look under anything where a person could seek shelter.

    For anyone with CCTV or video footage, we would ask you to please review any footage you have from 6.40pm on Wednesday 4 June to 8am on Thursday 5 June.

    While Lis went missing in the Riccarton area, she is physically strong, and may have walked some distance.

    Anyone who sees Lis should ring 111 immediately and use the reference number 250604/5465. Non-urgent information can be provided online at 105.police.govt.nz, using “Update Report,” quoting the same reference number.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Regular Press Briefing of the Ministry of National Defense on June 9, 2025 2025-06-18 On the afternoon of June 9, 2025, Senior Colonel Jiang Bin, Deputy Director-General of the Information Office of China’s Ministry of National Defense and Spokesperson for the MND, responded to recent media queries concerning the military.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense

    On the afternoon of June 9, 2025, Senior Colonel Jiang Bin, Deputy Director-General of the Information Office of China’s Ministry of National Defense (MND) and Spokesperson for the MND, responded to recent media queries concerning the military.

    On the afternoon of June 9, 2025, Senior Colonel Jiang Bin, Deputy Director-General of the Information Office of China’s Ministry of National Defense (MND) and Spokesperson for the MND, answers recent media queries concerning the military. (Photo by Li Xiaowei)

    (The following English text is for reference. In case of any divergence of interpretation, the Chinese text shall prevail.)

    Jiang Bin: First, I would like to announce two pieces of information.

    First, at the invitation of the Ministry of Defense of Mongolia, PLA Army soldiers will go to Mongolia in mid-June to participate in the Khaan Quest-2025 multinational peacekeeping exercise.

    Secondly, the 20th meeting of the Experts’ Working Group on Peacekeeping Operations under the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus) will be held in Nanjing from June 11 to 14. The member states and observer states of the ADMM-Plus, as well as the United Nations and the ASEAN Secretariat will send representatives to the event. Themed on “Technology and Innovation: Enhancing Military Cooperation in Peacekeeping Operations”, the meeting aims to deepen military mutual trust and security cooperation among regional countries and enhance their capacities for peacekeeping operations.

    Journalist: President Xi Jinping, Chairman of the Central Military Commission, recently signed an order to release the Regulation on Awarding Military Scientific Research. Please provide more information about this.

    Jiang Bin: As the first military-wide document on awarding military scientific research, the Regulation features three characteristics. First, it incorporates the standard of combat effectiveness throughout the entire awarding process, takes the contribution to the generation of combat capabilities as the primary criterion for evaluation, and assigns it the greatest weight. Second, it categorizes awards as theoretical research, scientific and technological advancement, and technological innovation, and establishes different levels of rewards including special, first-class, second-class, and third-class awards, constituting a well-structured military research award system with sound classification and evaluation methods. Third, it adjusts the awarding process, sets limits on the total number of awards, and emphasizes discipline and conduct. This will let researchers stay focused on their work and pursue innovation through solid efforts. The Regulation is expected to enhance innovation in military research, accelerate breakthroughs in military theory and defense technology, and support the building of a strong military in the new era with high-quality technology.

    Journalist: It is reported that the British government recently released its Strategic Defense Review, claiming that China is leveraging its economic, technological, and military capabilities to establish dominance in the Indo-Pacific, posing a “sophisticated and persistent challenge.” What’s your comment on this?

    Jiang Bin: China stays committed to the path of peaceful development and a defense policy that is defensive in nature. China has worked all along to uphold, promote and contribute to security in the Asia Pacific region. China’s development brings opportunities, not challenges, to other countries, and contributes stability and positive energy to world peace. We hope that the UK side adopts a right perception of China, respect facts, take a rational view of China and its military development, stop hyping up the so-called “China threat”, and do more to facilitate the development of bilateral ties and military relations between the two countries.

    On the afternoon of June 9, 2025, Senior Colonel Jiang Bin, Deputy Director-General of the Information Office of China’s Ministry of National Defense (MND) and Spokesperson for the MND, answers recent media queries concerning the military. (Photo by Li Xiaowei)

    Journalist：It is reported that the US is transporting a new batch of M1A2 tanks to Taiwan and plans to increase its arms sales to Taiwan over the next four years. New arms sales may surpass that of the first Trump administration. In addition, a former official of the US military said that about 500 US military personnel are operating in Taiwan, which is over ten times of the number previously disclosed by the US Congress. What’s your comment on this?

    Jiang Bin: This is another solid piece of evidence that the US side and the “Taiwan independence” separatist forces are taking efforts to violate China’s core interests, change the status quo across the Taiwan Strait and escalate regional tensions. Who is making provocations despite strong opposition from the Chinese side? Who is undermining cross-Strait stability and repeatedly stirring up troubles? We believe we all know the answers. The Chinese side is strongly dissatisfied and firmly opposed to this act.

    The Taiwan question is at the very core of China’s core interests, and is the first red line that must not be crossed in China-US relations. We urge the US side to stop its military collusion with Taiwan in any form; otherwise it will get burnt for playing with fire and gain more harm than good. We warn the DPP authorities that US weapons cannot save them, and soliciting external support for “Taiwan independence” will only fail. The PLA will continue to strengthen military training and combat readiness and enhance its capability to fight and win. We will take resolute measures to thwart “Taiwan independence” separatist activities and external interference.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • PM Modi takes part in G7 Summit’s outreach session on energy security

    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, where he underscored the need for a sustainable and inclusive approach to global energy access.

    Addressing the gathering, PM Modi emphasised the importance of ensuring energy security for all people through green and sustainable pathways. He highlighted India’s key international initiatives in this area, including the International Solar Alliance, the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), and the Global Biofuels Alliance, according to Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.

    “Artificial Intelligence itself is an energy-intensive technology. The only sustainable way to meet the energy demands of a technology-driven world is through renewable energy,” the Prime Minister said. “Ensuring affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy remains India’s top priority.”

    He also reiterated India’s belief that technology holds real value only when its benefits reach every person, particularly in the Global South. “No country in the Global South should be left behind,” he said.

    Referring to India’s experience with digital governance, he noted that the country has democratised access to technology through its Digital Public Infrastructure, empowering both the economy and citizens. He also stressed that meaningful and high-quality data is essential for developing inclusive, capable, and responsible AI systems.

    Highlighting the growing relevance of artificial intelligence, PM Modi called for global governance mechanisms to address its associated risks and to promote innovation. He underlined the strategic link between critical minerals and emerging technologies, and called for resilient and secure supply chains. “In the era of AI, close collaboration between critical minerals and technology is essential,” he said.

    He raised concerns over the misuse of AI, particularly the rise of deepfake technology. “Deepfakes are a serious concern. There must be clear watermarks or disclosures on AI-generated content,” he said.

    Reflecting on historical trends, PM Modi noted that while the last century was marked by competition for energy, the current century demands cooperation in the realm of technology. “India is moving ahead on the principles of availability, accessibility, affordability, and acceptability, and has chosen the path of inclusive development,” he said.

    Despite being the world’s fastest-growing major economy, India has already fulfilled its Paris Agreement commitments ahead of schedule, he noted. “We are moving rapidly toward our target of Net Zero by 2070. Currently, renewable energy constitutes about 50 per cent of our total installed capacity,” he added.

    Turning to geopolitical challenges, PM Modi drew attention to the disproportionate impact of crises—such as those related to food, fuel, fertilisers, and finance—on Global South nations. “These countries suffer the most from global uncertainties and conflicts. India considers it its responsibility to bring their concerns to the global stage,” he said.

    On the issue of terrorism, the Prime Minister made a strong statement against double standards. Referring to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, he said, “This was not just an attack on a place; it was an assault on the soul, identity, and dignity of every Indian — and indeed, on humanity itself.”

    “Terrorism is the enemy of humanity and threatens all nations that uphold democratic values. There must be no ambiguity: if a country supports terrorism, it must be held accountable,” he said. “While we are quick to impose sanctions on various issues, the same urgency must be applied to terrorism.”

    The Prime Minister thanked world leaders at the G7 Summit for condemning the Pahalgam attack and urged the international community to take strong action against those who support or sponsor terrorism.

    He concluded by reiterating India’s commitment to promoting a human-centric and inclusive approach to technology, and called for strengthened global cooperation to ensure peace, sustainability, and equitable development.

    (IANS)

  • PM Modi takes part in G7 Summit’s outreach session on energy security

    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, where he underscored the need for a sustainable and inclusive approach to global energy access.

    Addressing the gathering, PM Modi emphasised the importance of ensuring energy security for all people through green and sustainable pathways. He highlighted India’s key international initiatives in this area, including the International Solar Alliance, the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), and the Global Biofuels Alliance, according to Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.

    “Artificial Intelligence itself is an energy-intensive technology. The only sustainable way to meet the energy demands of a technology-driven world is through renewable energy,” the Prime Minister said. “Ensuring affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy remains India’s top priority.”

    He also reiterated India’s belief that technology holds real value only when its benefits reach every person, particularly in the Global South. “No country in the Global South should be left behind,” he said.

    Referring to India’s experience with digital governance, he noted that the country has democratised access to technology through its Digital Public Infrastructure, empowering both the economy and citizens. He also stressed that meaningful and high-quality data is essential for developing inclusive, capable, and responsible AI systems.

    Highlighting the growing relevance of artificial intelligence, PM Modi called for global governance mechanisms to address its associated risks and to promote innovation. He underlined the strategic link between critical minerals and emerging technologies, and called for resilient and secure supply chains. “In the era of AI, close collaboration between critical minerals and technology is essential,” he said.

    He raised concerns over the misuse of AI, particularly the rise of deepfake technology. “Deepfakes are a serious concern. There must be clear watermarks or disclosures on AI-generated content,” he said.

    Reflecting on historical trends, PM Modi noted that while the last century was marked by competition for energy, the current century demands cooperation in the realm of technology. “India is moving ahead on the principles of availability, accessibility, affordability, and acceptability, and has chosen the path of inclusive development,” he said.

    Despite being the world’s fastest-growing major economy, India has already fulfilled its Paris Agreement commitments ahead of schedule, he noted. “We are moving rapidly toward our target of Net Zero by 2070. Currently, renewable energy constitutes about 50 per cent of our total installed capacity,” he added.

    Turning to geopolitical challenges, PM Modi drew attention to the disproportionate impact of crises—such as those related to food, fuel, fertilisers, and finance—on Global South nations. “These countries suffer the most from global uncertainties and conflicts. India considers it its responsibility to bring their concerns to the global stage,” he said.

    On the issue of terrorism, the Prime Minister made a strong statement against double standards. Referring to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, he said, “This was not just an attack on a place; it was an assault on the soul, identity, and dignity of every Indian — and indeed, on humanity itself.”

    “Terrorism is the enemy of humanity and threatens all nations that uphold democratic values. There must be no ambiguity: if a country supports terrorism, it must be held accountable,” he said. “While we are quick to impose sanctions on various issues, the same urgency must be applied to terrorism.”

    The Prime Minister thanked world leaders at the G7 Summit for condemning the Pahalgam attack and urged the international community to take strong action against those who support or sponsor terrorism.

    He concluded by reiterating India’s commitment to promoting a human-centric and inclusive approach to technology, and called for strengthened global cooperation to ensure peace, sustainability, and equitable development.

    (IANS)

  • MIL-OSI USA: Booker Statement on Passage of GENIUS Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) issued the following statement following the passage of the bipartisan GENIUS Act:

    “As new technologies and payment systems emerge, it is essential that Congress moves quickly to establish regulatory frameworks that protect consumers from predatory practices, keep our markets safe, and prevent bad actors from exploiting regulatory gaps. Stablecoins, which millions of consumers already use to facilitate digital asset trading, are undeniably a part of the future of the global financial system, but are largely operating outside of the regulatory system or relying on a patchwork of inconsistent state regulations, posing serious risks to businesses and consumers alike. The U.S. should be a leader in setting standards for consumer protection and responsible innovation in the space.  

    “This bill is the result of months of bipartisan negotiations and offers robust guardrails for consumers in the U.S. It offers an important starting point for protecting financial security and our broader economy, closing loopholes on foreign-issued stablecoins that pose risks to national security, strengthening federal oversight over stablecoin issuers, and expanding consumer protections in the event of a stablecoin collapse. The bill also expands ethics requirements on government employees, ensuring special government employees like Elon Musk cannot enrich themselves while serving in government.

    “This bill is the beginning. There is still a significant amount of work to do to ensure that digital assets are operating in a way that protects and benefits consumers and holds industry accountable. I am also deeply concerned by the ongoing corruption by the Trump administration, as President Trump, his family, and other administration officials seek to exploit their roles in order to cut big real estate deals and enrich themselves on memecoin schemes.  I urge my colleagues to continue to work in a bipartisan manner to craft legislation that evolves alongside our changing financial system, and to hold the Trump family accountable.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LD to hold Youth Recruitment Day

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LD to hold Youth Recruitment Day 
    The recruitment event will be held at Southorn Stadium, Wan Chai. A total of 27 organisations from various industries, including transport, airline services, public services, retail, catering and property management, will participate in the recruitment event, offering full-time and part-time on-the-job training vacancies for young people.
     
    The job vacancies cover a wide variety of positions that do not require relevant work experience, such as supervisor trainee, aircraft maintenance mechanic trainee, barista, cargo services officer, technical trainee, engineering technician and sales associate. Job seekers aged 15 to 29 with educational attainment at sub-degree level or below are welcome to submit applications on the spot and may be invited for on-site interviews.
     
    The recruitment event also features career talks on the prospects and characteristics of different industries. Artist Cheung Tin-fu and billiard athlete Ng On-yee have been invited to join the event to share their stories of pursuing career development, encouraging young people to pursue their career goals with perseverance and determination. The session will be conducted in Cantonese. Priority admission will be given to the Youth Employment and Training Programme (YETP) service targets due to limited seats.
     
    Eligible young people can enrol in the YETP on the spot. Various service providers will assist them in selecting and enrolling in suitable training courses and provide advice on resume preparation and career consultation.
     
    The recruitment event will be held from 11am to 5.30pm at Southorn Stadium, 111 Johnston Road, Wan Chai (near Wan Chai MTR Station Exit A3). Admission is free. The last admission time is 5pm. For details, please visit the YETP website at www.yes.labour.gov.hkIssued at HKT 11:30

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget Wallet Expands Crypto Payment Capabilities with National QR Integration

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, June 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  Bitget Wallet, the leading non-custodial crypto wallet, has launched national QR payment support as part of its global PayFi initiative, with Vietnam becoming the first market to go live. The new feature allows users to pay with crypto by scanning VietQR, the country’s national QR code standard, widely adopted by local merchants. It marks a broader push to integrate crypto payments into national payment infrastructures across global markets, enabling direct payments from the self-custodial wallet with minimal fees and eliminating the need for fiat conversion.

    Users can now scan VietQR at local merchants and pay with stablecoins like USDT and USDC on Ethereum, Tron, Solana, Base, TON, and BNB Chain, with more chains to be added in the future. Upcoming auto-swap support will also allow payments in any token without manual conversion. Everyday transactions such as dining at street vendors and restaurants or buying groceries can be completed through a single scan, streamlined with automatic conversion and low fees.

    Through a strategic partnership with its licensed partner AEON, the next-generation crypto payment framework, Bitget Wallet now enables crypto payments across all 55+ banks and payment institutions that support VietQR. Over 2 million merchants nationwide accept the standard, offering stablecoin spending at both large retailers and small businesses. Vietnam marks the first phase of a broader rollout, with similar integrations planned across Southeast Asia, Latin America, and other regions.

    Bitget Wallet is the first self-custodial wallet to natively integrate a national QR system. Its scan function automatically detects whether a QR code is national or blockchain-based, such as Solana Pay, and processes transactions with real-time conversion. This eliminates reliance on third-party DApps and delivers a faster, more seamless payment experience.

    “We’re turning crypto from an investment asset into a usable currency,” said Jamie Elkaleh, CMO of Bitget Wallet. “By embedding local payment rails directly into the wallet via our partnership with AEON, we’re helping users spend their assets as easily as they store them — starting in Southeast Asia, and soon expanding to other regions.”

    Bitget Wallet also supports crypto card payments for both online and in-store use, as well as purchases from over 300 brands through its in-app marketplace. This unified payment experience gives users complete control—whether scanning, tapping, or shopping in-app—with a secure, intuitive interface.

    From June 16 to July 30, Bitget Wallet is offering 50% cashback on the first national QR payment made in Vietnam.

    More information is available through Bitget Wallet’s official channels.

    About Bitget Wallet
    Bitget Wallet is a non-custodial crypto wallet designed to make crypto simple and secure for everyone. With over 80 million users, it brings together a full suite of crypto services, including swaps, market insights, staking, rewards, DApp exploration, and payment solutions. Supporting 130+ blockchains and millions of tokens, Bitget Wallet enables seamless multi-chain trading across hundreds of DEXs and cross-chain bridges. Backed by a $300+ million user protection fund, it ensures the highest level of security for users’ assets. Its vision is Crypto for Everyone — to make crypto simpler, safer, and part of everyday life for a billion people.
    For more information, visit: X | Telegram | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn | TikTok | Discord | Facebook
    For media inquiries, contact media.web3@bitget.com

    About AEON
    AEON is the next-generation crypto payment framework, built for AI to drive intelligent, automated payments across Web3 and simplify how crypto works in real life. With omni-chain support, AEON’s AI Payments system allows intelligent agents to manage and automate transactions, payments, subscriptions, and remittances for users. With offerings like Web3 Mobile Payment that allows users to pay with crypto across 10,000 brands at 20+ million retail merchants in SEA, Africa and Latin America, Online Web3 Payment, Swap Pay, and a growing suite of AI-integrated payment services, AEON aims to create a future of crypto finance that’s intelligent, scalable, and borderless, where AI meets real life through seamless, scalable payments for next billion of users.

    Website | X | Telegram | Medium | AEON Pay

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Money Market Operations as on June 17, 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India
    (Amount in ₹ crore, Rate in Per cent)
      Volume
    (One Leg)    		 Weighted
    Average Rate    		 Range
    A. Overnight Segment (I+II+III+IV) 6,22,236.08 5.18 3.00-6.55
         I. Call Money 13,828.18 5.26 4.50-5.35
         II. Triparty Repo 4,09,067.30 5.20 5.01-5.25
         III. Market Repo 1,96,647.50 5.14 3.00-5.59
         IV. Repo in Corporate Bond 2,693.10 5.49 5.38-6.55
    B. Term Segment      
         I. Notice Money** 45.90 5.17 5.10-5.25
         II. Term Money@@ 185.00 – 5.50-6.00
         III. Triparty Repo 4,474.00 5.18 5.15-5.40
         IV. Market Repo 27.89 5.50 5.50-5.50
         V. Repo in Corporate Bond 0.00 – –
      Auction Date Tenor (Days) Maturity Date Amount Current Rate /
    Cut off Rate
    C. Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF), Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) & Standing Deposit Facility (SDF)
    I. Today’s Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
    3. MSF# Tue, 17/06/2025 1 Wed, 18/06/2025 1,297.00 5.75
    4. SDFΔ# Tue, 17/06/2025 1 Wed, 18/06/2025 2,99,971.00 5.25
    5. Net liquidity injected from today’s operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*       -2,98,674.00  
    II. Outstanding Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
    3. MSF#          
    4. SDFΔ#          
    D. Standing Liquidity Facility (SLF) Availed from RBI$       8,471.32  
    E. Net liquidity injected from outstanding operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     8,471.32  
    F. Net liquidity injected (outstanding including today’s operations) [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     -2,90,202.68  
    G. Cash Reserves Position of Scheduled Commercial Banks
         (i) Cash balances with RBI as on June 17, 2025 9,57,930.37  
         (ii) Average daily cash reserve requirement for the fortnight ending June 27, 2025 9,54,173.00  
    H. Government of India Surplus Cash Balance Reckoned for Auction as on¥ June 17, 2025 0.00  
    I. Net durable liquidity [surplus (+)/deficit (-)] as on May 30, 2025 5,84,684.00  
    @ Based on Reserve Bank of India (RBI) / Clearing Corporation of India Limited (CCIL).
    – Not Applicable / No Transaction.
    ** Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 2 to 14 days tenor.
    @@ Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 15 days to one year tenor.
    $ Includes refinance facilities extended by RBI.
    & As per the Press Release No. 2019-2020/1900 dated February 06, 2020.
    Δ As per the Press Release No. 2022-2023/41 dated April 08, 2022.
    * Net liquidity is calculated as Repo+MSF+SLF-Reverse Repo-SDF.
    ¥ As per the Press Release No. 2014-2015/1971 dated March 19, 2015.
    # As per the Press Release No. 2023-2024/1548 dated December 27, 2023.
    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    
    Press Release: 2025-2026/556

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ‘Guerrilla rewilding’ aims for DIY conservation – but it may do more harm than good

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Patrick Finnerty, Postdoctoral Research Fellow in conservation and wildlife management, University of Sydney

    Fidel Fernando / Unsplash

    Ever since modern environmentalism took off in the 1960s, people have tried to undo the damage humans have caused to nature. Efforts have ranged from reducing threats, to restoring habitats, to reintroducing vanished species – and the results have been mixed.

    However, these efforts have helped shape modern conservation science. This branch of knowledge uses ecological, genetic and behavioural insights to guide smarter, more ethical conservation actions.

    Governments often use this science to decide whether restoration projects should be approved. However, approval processes may be slow, under-resourced and complex, leaving passionate people feeling shut out.

    In response, some have turned to “guerilla rewilding” without approval, and often without due consideration of the potential for unintended impacts. As a recent ABC investigation showed, these passionate souls may release species into the wild or build self-managed sanctuaries, often dismissing scientists as “purists”.

    What is rewilding?

    Rewilding aims to restore wildlife and natural processes to ecosystems where they’ve been lost, often due to land clearing, agriculture or other human activities.

    It may involve reintroducing a species that has disappeared from a landscape, or using a similar surrogate species to revive lost ecological functions. The goal is to rebuild functioning, self-sustaining systems. It’s not just about individual species, but the roles they play in sustaining nature.

    In Australia, rewilding typically takes place in fenced reserves or on islands where invasive predators such as foxes and cats have been removed. These barriers offer protection, but require intensive planning, long-term management and ongoing funding.

    Rewilding often occurs in fenced sanctuaries.
    Stephen Mabbs / Unsplash

    The term “rewilding” itself has been criticised for harking back to a pre-colonial “wilderness”, overlooking First Nations’ connections to Country. But the goal of these projects is to restore ecological function and self-sustaining wildlife populations in shared, lived-in landscapes – including urban environments.

    When done well, rewilding can support species recovery, repair ecosystems, and help reconnect people with nature. But success depends on evidence-based design, clear goals, ongoing monitoring, and (often) additional management over time (such as adding or removing animals).

    Guerilla rewilding is risky

    Guerrilla rewilding can go wildly wrong. Ecology, evolution, behaviour and welfare are deeply complex — and every species is a unique part of a much larger puzzle.

    Scientists and conservationists are still learning how different animals survive and thrive in changing environments. Restoring these delicate systems without unintended consequences is also a challenge.

    Without rigorous planning, there is a risk of inbreeding or a mismatch between animals and their environment. Animals raised inside fences may become overabundant, or too naive to survive in the wild. Disease, overgrazing and long-term habitat degradation are other risks.

    Learning from science, not bypassing it

    Successful rewilding draws on decades of ecological insight — genetics, behaviour, predator-prey dynamics, health, and ecosystem function.

    Guerilla rewilders may see these as unnecessary academic add-ons. But when reintroductions fail, it’s often because one of these elements was overlooked. Frequently reported problems include animal behaviour, monitoring difficulties, quality of release habitat, and lack of baseline knowledge.

    However, accessing the science – and navigating the approvals that rely on it – isn’t always easy. Conservation processes are often slow, under-resourced and opaque. It’s no surprise some view them as “green tape”.

    In Australia, it can be easier to get permission to clear land than to restore it.
    Matt Palmer / Unsplash

    Indeed, in Australia, it’s harder to get a restoration project approved than it is to get approval for land clearing.

    Yet bypassing this system risks repeating old mistakes. So if we want rewilding to work, we need to make it easier to engage with evidence, expertise and ethical safeguards.

    Engagement may be as simple as working with the right partners from the outset. This may include Traditional Owners, universities, non-government organisations, and local conservation and environmental community groups.

    Collaboration, not conflict

    A lot of people and groups have the same goal: to restore thriving wild animal populations as part of more complete, diverse and resilient ecosystems. That outcome is best achieved through collaboration, sharing of expertise, and trust.

    Traditional Owners, scientists, carers, zoos, non-government organisations and government agencies all bring crucial knowledge. By turning shared passion into practical, evidence-based action, we can ensure rewilding efforts contribute to real, lasting outcomes for Australian and global biodiversity.

    So what does this look like in practice? First of all, it’s about getting connected.

    People with land or passion to contribute can contact organisations such as the Australian Wildlife Conservancy, WWF-Australia, Arid Recovery, several universities, or state parks and wildlife services. These groups have likely already done the groundwork, from habitat assessment to long-term planning. Joining existing efforts may get more done than starting solo.

    Policymakers can contribute not only funding, but also transparency. More open and understandable approval processes may lower the barriers for community-led rewilding efforts.

    As for scientists like us, we need to step beyond peer-reviewed papers. That means clearer communication, real-world partnerships, and embracing outreach – particularly in urban or accessible rewilding projects.

    The authors wish to acknowledge the contributions of Peter Banks, Donna Houston, Phil McManus, Catherine Grueber and Mareshell Wauchope to this article.

    Patrick Finnerty is the current director for early career ecology at the Ecological Society of Australia, the Early Career Coordinator at the Australasian Wildlife Management Society, and a council member for the Royal Zoological Society of NSW. He receives funding from the Australian Research Council.

    Alex Carthey is the founding Director of ReHabitat Pty Ltd. She receives funding from the Australia Research Council and the Hermon Slade Foundation. She is the immediate past-Treasurer and recently ex-Council member of the NSW Royal Zoological Society.

    Benjamin Pitcher is a Co-funded Research Fellow in Behavioural Biology at Macquarie University and Taronga Conservation Society Australia. He receives funding from the Australian Research Council and NSW Environmental Trust.

    John Martin receives funding from the Australian Research Council.

    Thomas Newsome receives funding from the Australian Research Council. He is immediate past-president of the Australasian Wildlife Management Society and President of the Royal Zoological Society of New South Wales.

    – ref. ‘Guerrilla rewilding’ aims for DIY conservation – but it may do more harm than good – https://theconversation.com/guerrilla-rewilding-aims-for-diy-conservation-but-it-may-do-more-harm-than-good-258818

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Over 700 quality job vacancies to be offered at Creating New Opportunities Job Fair

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Labour Department (LD) will hold the Creating New Opportunities Job Fair at the Sau Mau Ping Community Hall in Kwun Tong on June 20, providing a large number of vacancies from various industries for job seekers.

         The job fair is co-organised by the LD and the Office of Legislative Council Member Mr Ngan Man-yu of the Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong. About 15 organisations will participate in the job fair, offering over 700 quality job vacancies from various industries, among which more than 500 are from the catering, real estate and retail industries. Around 15 organisations will set up booths and conduct recruitment on the spot. A wide variety of positions will be offered, including branch manager/manageress, concierge officer, property officer, guest services agent, sales coordinator, artisan, taxi driver, cleaner, chef, security guard, baker, airport cargo cleaner, shop assistant, technician, etc. Job seekers can visit the LD’s Interactive Employment Service website (www.jobs.gov.hk) for more details on the vacancies.

         Around 92 per cent of the vacancies offered at the job fair are full-time jobs. Most vacancies offer monthly salaries ranging from $12,000 to $22,000. About 97 per cent of the vacancies require a Secondary Seven education level or below. Around 72 per cent are open to job seekers without relevant work experience.

         Job seekers can submit job applications during the event and may be selected for on-the-spot interviews. They can also make enquiries about the employment services provided by the LD at its counter inside the venue.

         The job fair will be held from 11am to 5.30pm at the Sau Mau Ping Community Hall, 100 Sau Ming Road, Sau Mau Ping Estate, Kwun Tong (near Sau Mau Ping Shopping Centre). Admission is free, with the final admission time at 5pm.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Buildings Energy Efficiency (Amendment) Ordinance 2025 to be gazetted on Friday

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The Buildings Energy Efficiency (Amendment) Ordinance 2025 (the Ordinance) and its Buildings Energy Efficiency (Amendment) Ordinance 2025 (Commencement) Notice (the Notice) will be published in the Gazette on Friday (June 20).
     
    A spokesman for the Environment and Ecology Bureau said, “The Ordinance not only improves the buildings energy efficiency management regime of Hong Kong by extending the scope of energy efficiency regulation to more types of buildings, shortening the intervals of energy audits and disclosing technical information in energy audit reports, but also helps to achieve a win-win scenario of saving electricity costs for buildings, reducing carbon emissions, and boosting the development of the green economy, thereby assisting Hong Kong to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.”
     
    The Ordinance will come into effect in two stages. The Notice will be tabled by the Government before the Legislative Council at its sitting on June 25. Upon the completion of negative vetting, the amendments for updating the qualifications eligible for registration as Registered Energy Assessors will commence first on September 20, 2025 (i.e. three months after the gazettal of the Ordinance), to enable professionals’ early registration. The remaining provisions will commence on September 20, 2026 (i.e. 15 months after the gazettal of the Ordinance), to allow adequate time for the sectors to make necessary preparations for compliance with the new regulations. The Electrical and Mechanical Services Department will continue the promotion and publicity efforts to inform building owners of the latest statutory requirements in a timely manner, and provide technical support to assist them in complying with the new requirements.
     
    The spokesman added, “Upon the full implementation of the Ordinance, it is estimated that an additional 500 million kilowatt-hours of electricity, equivalent to the annual electricity consumption of about 150 000 three-person households, could be saved in 2035.”

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