NewzIntel.com

Category: KB

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Senior Counsel Admission Ceremony

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Senior Counsel Admission Ceremony 
    The ceremony for the admission of Ms Catrina Lam Ding-wan, Ms Priscilia Lam Tsz-ying and Mr Timothy Edward David Parker to the rank of Senior Counsel will be held in the Court of Final Appeal on Saturday morning (June 7).
     
    During the ceremony, Chief Justice Andrew Cheung, Chief Justice of the Court of Final Appeal, will deliver a speech, followed by remarks from the Secretary for Justice, Mr Paul Lam, SC; the Chairman of the Hong Kong Bar Association, Mr José-Antonio Maurellet, SC; and the President of the Law Society of Hong Kong, Mr Roden Tong.
     
    The public can view a live broadcast on the Court of Final Appeal’s website (www.hkcfa.hkIssued at HKT 12:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • Trump bans nationals from 12 countries, citing security concerns

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    U.S. President Donald Trump signed a proclamation on Wednesday banning the nationals of 12 countries from entering the United States, saying the move was needed to protect against “foreign terrorists” and other security threats.

    The countries affected are Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen.

    The entry of people from seven other countries: Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela, will be partially restricted. The travel restrictions were first reported by CBS News.

    “We will not allow people to enter our country who wish to do us harm,” Trump said in a video posted on X. He said the list could be revised and new countries could be added.

    The proclamation is effective on June 9, 2025 at 12:01 am EDT (0401 GMT). Visas issued before that date will not be revoked, the order said.

    During his first term in office, Trump announced a ban on travelers from seven majority-Muslim nations, a policy that went through several iterations before it was upheld by the Supreme Court in 2018.

    Former President Joe Biden, a Democrat who succeeded Trump, repealed the ban in 2021, calling it “a stain on our national conscience.”

    Trump said the countries subject to the most severe restrictions were determined to harbor a “large-scale presence of terrorists,” fail to cooperate on visa security and have an inability to verify travelers’ identities, inadequate record-keeping of criminal histories and high rates of visa overstays in the United States.

    “We cannot have open migration from any country where we cannot safely and reliably vet and screen those who seek to enter the United States,” Trump said.

    He cited Sunday’s incident in Boulder, Colorado in which a man tossed a gasoline bomb into a crowd of pro-Israel demonstrators as an example of why the new restrictions are needed.

    An Egyptian national, Mohamed Sabry Soliman, has been charged in the attack. Federal officials said Soliman had overstayed his tourist visa and had an expired work permit – although Egypt is not on the list of countries facing travel limits.

    BEING IN THE U.S. A ‘BIG RISK’

    Somalia immediately pledged to work with the U.S. to address security issues.

    “Somalia values its longstanding relationship with the United States and stands ready to engage in dialogue to address the concerns raised,” Dahir Hassan Abdi, the Somali ambassador to the United States, said in a statement.

    Venezuelan Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello, a close ally of President Nicolas Maduro, responded on Wednesday evening by describing the U.S. government as fascist and warning Venezuelans of being in the U.S.

    “The truth is being in the United States is a big risk for anybody, not just for Venezuelans … They persecute our countrymen, our people for no reason.”

    Calls early on Thursday to the spokesperson of Myanmar’s military government were not answered. The foreign ministry of Laos did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

    Trump’s directive is part of an immigration crackdown that he launched at the start of his second term. He previewed his plan in an October 2023 speech, pledging to restrict people from the Gaza Strip, Libya, Somalia, Syria, Yemen and “anywhere else that threatens our security.”

    Trump issued an executive order on January 20 requiring intensified security vetting of any foreigners seeking admission to the U.S. to detect national security threats. That order directed several cabinet members to submit a list of countries from which travel should be partly or fully suspended because their “vetting and screening information is so deficient.”

    (Reuters)

  • Boisson lights up French Open, Sinner and Djokovic book semi-final showdown

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Wild card Lois Boisson lit up the French Open on Wednesday when the home hope downed sixth-seeded Russian Mirra Andreeva to make the semi-finals before Novak Djokovic set up a blockbuster meeting with world number one Jannik Sinner.

    While Sinner stretched his Grand Slam winning streak to 19 matches after back-to-back titles at the U.S. Open last year and the Australian Open in January, Boisson, ranked 361st, thrilled the home crowd with a dazzling performance.

    Three-time French Open winner Novak Djokovic stole the show in the evening by outlasting German third seed Alexander Zverev 4-6 6-3 6-2 6-4 to remain in the hunt for a record 25th Grand Slam title at the venue of his Olympic gold medal last year.

    Victory after three hours and 17 minutes was the 38-year-old Serbian’s 101st win at Roland Garros but he had to draw from his seemingly endless reserves of energy and experience to prevail.

    “There was a lot of tension, pressure but it’s normal when you play Zverev, one of the best in the world, in the last five-six years,” Djokovic said.

    “My game is based on a lot of running. I’m 38, it’s not easy to keep running like that but, OK, it works.”

    Sinner was barely troubled as he defeated Alexander Bublik 6-1 7-5 6-0 and became the first Italian man to reach six Grand Slam semi-finals.

    The 23-year-old, who served a three-month doping ban before returning to action in Rome last month, raced through the first set after twice breaking the Kazakh, who had stunned fifth seed Jack Draper in the previous round.

    Looking to become the first man representing Kazakhstan to defeat a world number one, Bublik, who hit 37 drop shots against Draper, pulled out this weapon again in the second set.

    Sinner broke and held to take it before the 27-year-old Bublik, ever the entertainer, delighted fans with an underarm serve but ultimately could do nothing to stop the Italian’s march into the last four.

    BOISSON SPARKLES

    Earlier Boisson became the toast of France after staging the tournament’s biggest upset with a 7-6(6) 6-3 win over Andreeva, who had been tipped as a title contender, in an electrifying match that had the home crowd on the edge of their seats.

    The 22-year-old had stunned third seed Jessica Pegula in round four, but on Wednesday pulled off another major shock, beating Andreeva, who had not lost a set in the tournament.

    “Every player dreams of winning a Slam – and for a French player, Roland Garros even more so. I’ll go for it because my dream is to win the final, not the semi-final,” Boisson said.

    Andreeva, the 18-year-old sixth seed who was bidding to become the youngest female player to reach back-to-back French Open semi-finals in nearly three decades, quickly found herself chasing Boisson’s fierce forehand.

    The underdog, who has been a breath of fresh air in the tournament with her no-nonsense power game and down-to-earth approach, looked to have run out of steam as Andreeva went 3-0 up but she proceeded to win the next six consecutive games.

    Andreeva repeatedly lost her temper and was handed a warning when she fired a ball into the stands in frustration.

    With the home crowd the loudest it had been since the start, chants of ‘Lois, Lois’ echoed across the Philippe Chatrier court, with the decibel level lifted even further because the roof was closed due to rain.

    Boisson, who will jump almost 300 places in the rankings next week, will face 2023 U.S. Open champion Coco Gauff, who came out on top in an error-ridden quarter-final against Australian Open champion Madison Keys with the pair littering the court with 101 unforced errors.

    UNFORCED ERRORS

    With a total of 49 unforced errors in the first set alone they both struggled to hold serve and Gauff, a semi-finalist in Paris last year, wasted a set point before Keys, who reached the French Open last four in 2018, edged ahead with a tiebreak win.

    Gauff, who reached the final in 2022 and is the youngest woman to claim 25 main-draw wins at Roland Garros since Martina Hingis (1995-2000), bounced back to win the next two sets.

    “So many unforced errors,” Gauff, who also had 10 double faults, said to herself after sinking another easy baseline shot into the net.

    “I was just trying to be aggressive,” the 21-year-old Gauff said. “Usually if you’re playing too passive, in the end the more aggressive player is going to win. I knew in the second and the third that I had to try my best.”

    (Reuters)

  • Ronaldo fires Portugal into Nations League final

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Cristiano Ronaldo scored the winner as Portugal fought back to beat Germany 2-1 on Wednesday, with the 40-year-old bagging his 137th international goal to send them into the Nations League final.

    It was Portugal’s first win over Germany since 2000 with Ronaldo’s goal earning them a spot in their second Nations League final, after winning the inaugural edition in 2019.

    Spain and France will clash in the other semi-final on Thursday to decide who will face Portugal in the decider on Sunday.

    Germany dominated the first half, but it remained goalless thanks to the heroics of Portugal keeper Diogo Costa.

    The shotstopper made an excellent start to the first half, keeping out a low shot from Germany’s Leon Goretzka after four minutes with a strong save.

    Costa came to Portugal’s rescue again with an incredible save from Nick Woltemade’s close-range effort and two minutes later, he produced another quick reaction stop, diving low to tip away another attempt from Goretzka.

    Germany took the lead in the 48th minute, as Florian Wirtz headed in unmarked in the box, following a pinpoint lobbed pass from Joshua Kimmich.

    However, Portugal turned the match around, first equalising through substitute Francisco Conceicao in the 63rd minute, before Ronaldo tapped in five minutes later after Nuno Mendes teed him up.

    For Conceicao, the win carried extra significance, as his father Sergio scored a hat-trick the last time Portugal beat Germany – at the European Championship in 2000.

    “We need to enjoy the victory – we won for the first time in a while against Germany. Tactically we were exceptional and our commitment helped… it was a team victory,” Portugal coach Roberto Martinez said.

    “Now we can recover and evaluate,” he added. “We want another performance with personality in this shirt.”

    Germany looked to shift the momentum when substitute Karim Adeyemi unleashed a powerful rising strike with his left foot, only to see it crash against the outside of Costa’s right-hand post.

    Portugal could have grabbed a third goal very late in the match but Germany keeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen stretched impressively to perform a double save.

    It was a disappointing 100th appearance for Germany captain Kimmich.

    “The defeat is absolutely deserved. We weren’t playing well enough in the first half. After going 1-0 up, nothing came of it in the second half,” he told reporters.

    “We have to learn from this. If we’re not at 100%, we can’t beat a top European team. Today was one of our worst games, purely based on our performance.”

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI China: Olympism365 Summit focuses on social commitment of sport

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

    The first-ever Olympism365 Summit, organized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), was held on Wednesday, calling for global collaboration to build a better world through sport.

    Around 300 attendees from across the world gathered in Lausanne, where IOC President Thomas Bach outlined the mission in his opening speech – to put sport at the service of society.

    International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach speaks during the first-ever Olympism365 Summit in Lausanne, Switzerland, June 4, 2025. (Christophe Moratal/IOC/Handout via Xinhua)

    “The purpose of this Olympism365 Summit is not only to reflect on how far we have come, but, more importantly, to chart the course for the future. What we have built together over the past years is only the beginning. Now is the time to take these efforts – and the goals of the Olympic Agenda – to new heights,” Bach said.

    According to the IOC, the objectives of the Olympism365 strategy are to “ensure more people, from more diverse backgrounds, benefit from participating in community sports programs and accessing Olympism ‘365 days a year’,” with over 550 initiatives currently being delivered across 175 countries and regions by the IOC, National Olympic Committees and various implementing partners.

    The morning session, titled “Building a Better World Through Sport,” featured discussions on topics such as sport, education, employment, health, equality, inclusion and community development.

    An IOC Youth Summit is scheduled for Thursday, concluding the Olympism365 Summit with a presentation of Summit Outcomes.

    Bach said: “The IOC is fully committed to strengthening the role of sport as an important enabler of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We are addressing 11 of the SDGs at the same time: peace, health, social inclusion, gender equality, sustainability and more.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Castro Statement on Abbott Ending In-State Tuition

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Joaquin Castro (20th District of Texas)

    June 04, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20) released the following statement following Governor Greg Abbott’s decision to end in-state tuition in Texas:

    “This is a choreographed surrender. Legislation to gut the in-state tuition program just got shut down in the Texas legislature. Now Trump’s DOJ steps in and goes against what the legislature did, and Abbott and Paxton are refusing to defend the law enacted in 2001 and signed by Rick Perry. It’s backdoor legislating by cowards. And it will hurt Texans.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: POLICE APPEAL: Aggravated Robbery Whangārei

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Northland Police are appealing for information in relation to an aggravated robbery in Tikipunga, Whangārei, yesterday.

    “Police responded to reports that a vehicle had been stolen by two offenders,” says Detective Senior Sergeant Michelle Harris, of Northland CIB.

    “Members of the public were left shaken after two-armed males allegedly forced a woman from her vehicle.”

    The vehicle fled at speed, damaging four other vehicles in the process.

    Help from the public yesterday assisted Police to locate and arrest the pair at a nearby property.

    A number of weapons were also seized.

    “Police are appealing to anyone who witnessed anything at the Paramount Plaza yesterday between 1230pm and 2pm to please contact Police. We are also interested in any CCTV footage or cell phone footage of the incident”
    Det Snr Sgt Harris says.

    “We’d be grateful for anyone with information contacting Police as soon as possible.”

    The two men appeared in the Whangārei District Court today on charges of aggravated robbery and demands to steal.

    Police enquiries are ongoing, and anyone with information that can assist with our enquiries is asked to update us online now or call 105.

    Please use file number 250604/4542

    ENDS

    Nicole Bremner/NZ Police 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: WATCH: Padilla Exposes Cruelty of Republican Plan to Cut $300 Billion in Essential SNAP Benefits

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    WATCH: Padilla Exposes Cruelty of Republican Plan to Cut $300 Billion in Essential SNAP Benefits

    WATCH: Padilla highlights critical importance of federal nutrition services for helping American economy and vulnerable communities

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) joined a spotlight forum titled “Hunger by Design ­— The GOP’s Assault on SNAP” to question witnesses and expose President Trump and Republicans’ cruel budget proposal that would slash $300 billion in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits while giving tax cuts to billionaires. As Trump’s tariffs raise food costs for American families, the cuts to SNAP would threaten a vital lifeline for over 42 million Americans, including 16 million children, 8 million seniors, 4 million people with disabilities, and 1.2 million veterans.

    Senator Padilla warned against the devastating SNAP cuts to pay for Republicans’ billionaire-first agenda.

    • “We’re here today because in order to make life easier for billionaires — apparently that’s an agenda item — Congressional Republicans are pushing a budget bill that would literally harm young children, would harm single mothers, would harm Americans with disabilities, would harm countless seniors, some of the most vulnerable members of our communities. And Republicans would have you believe that SNAP benefits are some sort of luxury the way they talk about it. Nobody aspires to live on food stamps. What food stamps are is a lifeline for millions of Americans.”
    • “It’s outright cruelty, literally taking from the poor to give to the rich. No one in our country should go hungry because billionaires need another tax break. That’s the Republican agenda. So today we’re here to expose these devastating cuts — literally the largest in history — for what they really are: tax breaks for billionaires paid for by the most vulnerable in our society.”

    Padilla highlighted that the Republican budget reconciliation bill targets immigrants legally residing in the United States. He also underscored that Californians who are undocumented pay $8.5 billion dollars a year in taxes, yet are generally excluded from public programs like SNAP, the child tax credit, and Medicaid that their tax dollars pay for. He heard from Barbara C. Guinn, Commissioner of the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, about the devastating impacts of withholding food assistance for lawfully present immigrants who depend on SNAP.

    • PADILLA: “One of the most concerning elements of the bill is how it targets immigrant communities. There’s immigrants in every state in the nation. It targets them through deliberate exclusions of tax-paying noncitizens or their families from receiving child tax credit, Medicaid, and SNAP. … Commissioner Guinn, can you share how the bill would take food assistance away from lawfully present immigrants who have long been eligible for SNAP, and what the consequences would be for immigrant communities at large?”
    • GUINN: “… The SNAP program, first, already has some pretty stringent limitations on the extent to which noncitizens can receive benefits. So the fact that this bill goes even farther in reducing access for individuals who are legally, lawfully present in our country is of great concern. In New York State, we estimate that as a result of the provisions in the House bill to further prevent legal noncitizens from accessing food benefits would impact about 70,000 individuals. … SNAP is typically temporary. It is often received by individuals who are trying really hard to work, putting a couple of jobs together. That’s no different for these immigrants who are legally present in our country, and we believe that they should continue to receive SNAP benefits, and actually would prefer to move in a different direction, to expand access for additional legally [present] noncitizens.”

    Padilla also questioned Northwestern University Professor Dr. Diane Whitmore Schanzenbach on the economic importance of preserving SNAP benefits. Dr. Schanzenbach emphasized that SNAP is especially important during economic downturns and after natural disasters, citing the critical safety net provided by expanding nutrition assistance during the Great Recession. SNAP supports roughly 390,000 jobs and $20 billion in wages every year.

    • PADILLA: “Dr. Schanzenbach, you’ve talked about how SNAP doesn’t just fight against hunger, it actually is a driver of local economies throughout the country, impacting farmers, food producers, grocery retailers, truck drivers, et cetera. Can you just expand on what those economic impacts would be?”
    • SCHANZENBACH: “… SNAP, and because of the full federal funding of SNAP, can very quickly expand in economic downturns. That means that people can still go to the grocery store, and it means that the grocery store doesn’t have to lay off certain people, and it has often been the most effective stimulus money that we’ve spent. Like during the Great Recession, they topped up benefits by like 15 percent. The studies came back and found… something like $1.75 return for every dollar that you spent on those increased benefits. SNAP is a very effective tool. It’s also particularly effective when, when there are natural disasters, like the fires in California. You know, we saw a little bit about the spillover effects on other people, right? Because we live in a society where our economic well-being is interconnected, and if we pull the rug out from one sector that’s going to have ripple effects.”
    • PADILLA: “Appreciate you mentioning that it’s not just economic downturns, but with the increasing frequency and scale of natural disasters, the role and impact of SNAP there as well.”

    Video of Senator Padilla’s remarks and questioning is available here.

    Last month, Senator Padilla issued a statement slamming House Republicans’ billionaire-first budget reconciliation bill that will gut critical programs, including SNAP, and devastate families in California and across the country. Padilla previously spoke on the Senate floor against the Republican budget resolution, and voted against advancing it in the Senate in both February and April.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Safety first at Sumner Bay

    Source: Environment Canterbury Regional Council

    Date:

    Still making the most of the water this winter? Stay safe and respect the reserved area at Sumner Bay — it’s there to protect everyone.

    Recent sightings of electric power-driven craft operating close to shore, have raised concerns about the unsafe use of vessels in the reserved area of Sumner Bay.  

    Sumner Bay contains a designated reserved area that extends 400 metres seaward from the beach.

    Within this zone, the use of power-driven vessels – including jet skis, tow boogies, power-assisted surfboards and electric foils – is strictly prohibited, unless you are transiting directly to or from the nearest point outside the reserved area.

    Deputy Harbourmaster Gordon McKay says this rule is in place for one simple reason – to keep everyone safe.

    “Sumner Bay is hugely popular with swimmers, paddleboarders, surfers, and families. High-speed or powered craft can pose a serious risk in such a busy and diverse area,” says Gordon.

    “Even though some of these new devices seem quiet or small, they are still powerful, heavy, often sharp, and can move quickly and unpredictably.”

    The reserved area exists:

    • to protect people in the water
    • to reduce potential collisions
    • to ensure Sumner Bay remains a safe place for everyone.

    “We want everyone to have a good time on the water. But that only happens when we all follow the rules and look out for each other. Keep your powered craft well clear of the beach and save the speed for open water.”

    Users of power-driven vessels are requested to head to areas where restrictions do not apply such as Brighton Beach or Lyttelton Harbour. 

    Before heading out: Make sure you’ve prepped your vessel, checked your gear, and know the rules for

    safer boating.

    Environment Canterbury © 2025
    Retrieved: 3:30pm, Thu 05 Jun 2025
    ecan.govt.nz/get-involved/news-and-events/2025/safety-first-at-sumner-bay/

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police call for public’s help in search for missing woman

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Christchurch Police are urging residents in areas around Riccarton to search their backyards for a woman who has been missing for nearly 24 hours.

    Elisabeth, 79, was last seen on Bartlett Street in Riccarton about 6pm on Wednesday 4 June. She was wearing blue pants, a dark coloured long-sleeve top, black shoes and has distinctive long blond/white hair.

    Senior Sergeant Todd Webley said Police held serious concerns for her wellbeing.

    “We have a large number of staff on the ground, including from Land Search and Rescue, but we really need people in the Riccarton and surrounding areas to check home security cameras, and also around their properties, in sheds and garages, in case Elisabeth is there.

    Area searches have been carried out through Riccarton, nearby high schools, sport fields and retirement homes, and on both sides of the Avon River from the Botanical Gardens traffic bridge, and Hagley Park.

    “This is a significant search, but we need the public’s help to locate Elisabeth as soon as possible. We know people are finishing work for the day, and the best way they can assist us is to check their properties and call 111 if they find her.”

    Senior Sergeant Webley said search teams would remain on the ground into the evening “if it comes to it”, and that Elisabeth’s family were being provided updates on the search.

    “It is getting cold, and everyone on the ground is focused on bringing Elisabeth home as soon as possible.”

    Anyone who sees Elisabeth 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”, and quoting the same reference number.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Money Market Operations as on June 04, 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) 5,55,169.12 5.64 3.00-6.90
         I. Call Money 13,718.05 5.75 4.85-5.85
         II. Triparty Repo 3,69,233.55 5.62 5.50-5.75
         III. Market Repo 1,70,770.32 5.68 3.00-6.00
         IV. Repo in Corporate Bond 1,447.20 5.89 5.80-6.90
    B. Term Segment      
         I. Notice Money** 28.00 5.64 5.60-5.70
         II. Term Money@@ 167.00 – 5.75-6.05
         III. Triparty Repo 1,853.90 5.62 5.55-5.85
         IV. Market Repo 423.10 5.85 5.80-6.00
         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 Wed, 04/06/2025 1 Thu, 05/06/2025 4,271.00 6.01
         (b) Reverse Repo          
    3. MSF# Wed, 04/06/2025 1 Thu, 05/06/2025 622.00 6.25
    4. SDFΔ# Wed, 04/06/2025 1 Thu, 05/06/2025 2,99,291.00 5.75
    5. Net liquidity injected from today’s operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*       -2,94,398.00  
    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$       8,321.86  
    E. Net liquidity injected from outstanding operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     8,321.86  
    F. Net liquidity injected (outstanding including today’s operations) [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     -2,86,076.14  
    G. Cash Reserves Position of Scheduled Commercial Banks
         (i) Cash balances with RBI as on June 04, 2025 9,45,785.24  
         (ii) Average daily cash reserve requirement for the fortnight ending June 13, 2025 9,41,551.00  
    H. Government of India Surplus Cash Balance Reckoned for Auction as on¥ June 04, 2025 4,271.00  
    I. Net durable liquidity [surplus (+)/deficit (-)] as on May 16, 2025 3,48,763.00  
    @ 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: 2025-2026/478

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Joint Statement of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) for the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction (GPDRR) 2025

    Source: ASEAN

    We, Brunei Darussalam, the Kingdom of Cambodia, the Republic of Indonesia, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Malaysia, the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, the Republic of the Philippines, the Republic of Singapore, the Kingdom of Thailand, and the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam, stand united as One ASEAN on the occasion of the eighth session of the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction 2025 (GPDRR 2025), in Geneva, Switzerland.
     
    We reaffirm our strong commitment to the full and effective implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (SFDRR) 2015-2030, including through the Asia-Pacific Action Plan 2021-2024. In line with the theme of the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction (GPDRR) 2025 “Every Day Counts: Act for Resilience Today,” we are committed to accelerating efforts in building a disaster-resilient ASEAN Community by advancing the implementation of the ASEAN Agreement on Disaster Management and Emergency Response (AADMER) and AADMER Work Programme 2021-2025, which is aligned with the SFDRR. As we are developing the AADMER Work Programme 2026-2030, we remain committed to ensuring its continued alignment with the SFDRR.

    Download the full statement here.
    The post Joint Statement of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) for the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction (GPDRR) 2025 appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Alleged scammer arrested following $150k in thefts

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Police have arrested a man after he allegedly used Facebook Marketplace to fleece people of more than $150,000 worth of goods.

    This morning officers from Waitematā West Tactical Crime Unit assisted by the Armed Offenders Squad, conducted a search warrant at a Massey address.

    Detective Senior Sergeant Ryan Bunting says Police had been looking for the male who was wanted in relation to 17 dodgy deals between November 2024 and April this year.

    “This man was allegedly involved in Facebook Marketplace deals for 17 different vehicles or high value items including phones and jewellery.

    “We allege this person has attended public places to meet the sellers and do ‘bank transfers’ described as looking very real, including using fake IDs and fake drivers licenses.

    “Unfortunately the sellers have let the vehicles/goods go with the offender before later realising no transfer has occurred.”

    Detective Senior Sergeant Bunting says the alleged offender has obtained goods to the tune of $150,000.

    “Several vehicles have been recovered and further enquiries are ongoing.”

    He says Police are not ruling out further charges.

    “While it is a very effective buy and sell platform, it’s also a successful hunting ground for criminals to buy items using a fake bank transfer or sell items that don’t exist and don’t deliver.

    “These types of scams can be difficult for Police to investigate so we are urging those who use the buy and sell platform to exercise caution and do their due-diligence first.”

    Police encourage anyone choosing to use the buy and sell platform to follow the following advice:

    • Insist on meeting to conduct transactions and examine the item before completing the transaction

    • Meet in a public place and take a friend. DO NOT go into someone’s house or allow them into yours

    • DO NOT deposit money into another person’s account before you have received the item

    • Ensure that cleared funds have arrived in your account, don’t rely on sellers ID, screenshots or viewing funds being transferred on an app

    • Learning more about the person you are buying from or selling to. Note: You can tap on a person’s profile on the product listing page to see if you have any friends in common, their marketplace activity, and any ratings they

    may have received

    • Ensure friends and family, especially anyone vulnerable, understand what to do to protect themselves. Be the person to provide that ongoing support and advice

    • Trust your instincts – if it’s too good to be true or sounds like a scam, it probably is

    If you believe you are or have been a victim of fraud, contact Police at www.police.govt.nz/use-105, or call Police on 105 and report the matter.

    If you have handed over your bank details, contact your bank and immediately suspend your account.

    A 36-year-old man will appear in Waitākere District Court today facing 17 charges of obtaining by deception.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Chinese Culture Festival 2025 to focus on Xi’an by presenting “China’s oldest rock ‘n’ roll” Qinqiang in Hong Kong in July (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Chinese Culture Festival (CCF) 2025, organised by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD), has designated Xi’an as its focal city this year. The Festival will gather six renowned Qinqiang artists and China Theatre Plum Blossom Award (Plum Blossom Award) winners, including Dou Fengqin, Qi Aiyun, Wang Xincang, Qu Qiaozhe, Zhang Tao and Tan Jianxun, in Hong Kong this July. They will lead the emerging talent from the Xi’an Performing Arts Group’s Youth Experimental Troupe of Qinqiang Opera to perform Qinqiang classic plays “Returning to Jingzhou” and “Zhou Ren on the Way Home”, showcasing Qinqiang’s unique “howling” style, while allowing audiences to experience the robust spirit of the people of the northwest and their cultural confidence in celebrating life. This programme is also part of the 13th Chinese Opera Festival (COF). 

         Qinqiang, also known as “luantan” and “bangzi” vocal style, is one of the oldest operatic forms in northwestern China. It first appeared during the western Zhou period, and was popular in the Shaanxi and Gansu regions. The genre was inscribed on the first list of Intangible Cultural Heritage at the National Level. Its artistic features have cast a profound influence on face painting and the “xipi” and “liushui” tunes in Peking opera. Renowned for its broad vocal range and powerful, impassioned delivery, Qinqiang is often hailed as “China’s oldest rock ‘n’ roll” for its directness, exuberance and exquisiteness in expressing emotions. ——————————
    Date and time: July 4 (Friday), 7.30pm————————————-
    Date and time: July 5 (Saturday), 7.30pm 

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DH’s enquiry hotline regarding suspected closure of private healthcare facilities to cease operation tomorrow

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    DH’s enquiry hotline regarding suspected closure of private healthcare facilities to cease operation tomorrow???
    After learning that the private health care facilities in question had used the laboratory services of a local private hospital for laboratory services, the DH has taken the initiative to contact the private hospital concerned and offered assistance in delivering 11 laboratory reports to the referring doctor so that the cases could be followed up appropriately. For the sake of prudence, the DH has also reached out to local registered professionals operating medical laboratories and radiological imaging services, inviting them to contact the DH for assistance if they are unable to deliver any laboratory reports to referring doctors from the private healthcare facilities in question.Issued at HKT 11:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: 505th Command and Control Wing News

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii — As the pace and scale of joint operations continue to intensify in the Indo-Pacific region, the U.S. Air Force and its partners are drawing strategic insights from Bamboo Eagle 25-1, a large-scale exercise designed to refine the command-and-control capabilities needed for the future fight. Held this past spring across the western United States and Pacific air and maritime domains, the exercise served as a major operational testbed for both emerging C2 concepts and coalition integration.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Marines, ANZACs Share Special Bond

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    HONOLULU — There is a long-standing, strong relationship that exists between the Australian and New Zealand militaries and the U.S. Marine Corps. This bond extends far back in our respective histories when we fought side-by-side helping to defend Australia and New Zealand in World War II, and extends to today as Marines and soldiers of the Australian and New Zealand militaries train and serve side-by-side around the world.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Boston Man Indicted for Receipt and Possession of Child Pornography

    Source: US FBI

    BOSTON – A Boston man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for receiving and possessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM).

    Cess Frazier, 32, was charged with one count of receipt of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography. Frazier was arrested and charged by complaint on April 29, 2025. The defendant was subsequently released on conditions following a detention hearing and will be arraigned in federal court in Boston at a later date.

    According to the charging documents, on or about Feb. 20, 2025 through April 29, 2025, Frazier knowingly received and possessed files that depicted CSAM from unknown users on Telegram. It is alleged that the CSAM files depicted the sexual abuse of minor victims who appeared to be between approximately three and 10 years old.

    The charge of receipt of child pornography provides for a sentence of at least five years and up to 20 years in prison, at least five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of possession of child pornography provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, at least five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Kimberly Milka, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Boston Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Allegra Flamm of the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.

    The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI China: Ukraine, Russia to exchange 500 prisoners each this weekend: Zelensky

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

    Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced Wednesday that Ukraine and Russia have agreed to carry out a prisoner exchange under the “500-for-500” formula this weekend, the Ukrinform news agency reported.

    “The Russian side has informed us that this weekend it will be ready to hand over 500 individuals … Accordingly, we will be ready to exchange the same number of people,” Zelensky said after consultations between Kiev and Moscow regarding the swap.

    He noted that Ukraine has not yet received the lists of individuals to be exchanged.

    Ukraine and Russia have agreed on another major prisoner exchange during the second round of direct talks in Istanbul on Monday.

    The delegations held their previous negotiations on May 16, which resulted in a “1,000 for 1,000” prisoner exchange between the parties. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: 18 states elected into UN Economic and Social Council for three-year term

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

    Philemon Yang (L), president of the UN General Assembly, presides over a meeting to elect members of the UN Economic and Social Council at the UN headquarters in New York, on June 4, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Eighteen states, including China, were elected on Wednesday into the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), the coordinating body for the economic and social work of UN agencies and funds, for a three-year term.

    Philemon Yang, president of the General Assembly, announced the results after voting by secret ballot in the assembly.

    Elected were Burundi, Chad, Mozambique, Sierra Leone from African states; China, India, Lebanon, Turkmenistan from Asia-Pacific states; Croatia, Russia, Ukraine from Eastern European states; Ecuador, Peru, Saint Kitts and Nevis from Latin America and Caribbean states; Australia, Finland, Norway, Türkiye from Western European and other states.

    They were elected for a three-year term beginning on Jan. 1, 2026.

    Russia failed to obtain the two-thirds majority needed for election in the first round of the voting. It won in a restrictive round against Belarus.

    In a by-election for rotation within the Western European and other states group, Germany was elected for a one-year term beginning on Jan. 1, 2026. It will replace Liechtenstein. The United States was elected for a two-year term beginning on Jan. 1, 2026. It will replace Italy.

    ECOSOC has 54 members, which are elected each year by the General Assembly for overlapping three-year terms. Seats on the council are allocated on the basis of geographical representation with 14 seats to African states, 11 to Asia-Pacific states, six to Eastern European states, 10 to Latin American and Caribbean states, and 13 to Western Europe and other states. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China blasts US veto on UN Security Council draft resolution over Gaza

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

    A Chinese envoy on Wednesday blasted the United States for its veto on a Security Council draft resolution that would have demanded an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the lifting of restrictions on humanitarian aid.

    China is deeply disappointed by the result of Wednesday’s vote, said Fu Cong, China’s permanent representative to the United Nations. The draft resolution reflects the most pressing demands of the people in Gaza and the overwhelming voice of the international community, he added.

    “The United States has once again abused its veto power, extinguishing the glimmer of hope for the people in Gaza and ruthlessly continuing to leave over 2 million people in darkness. It must face the questioning from the international community,” he said.

    As the primary body for the maintenance of international peace and security, the Security Council has been striving to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza, and has long reached an overwhelming consensus. Wednesday’s vote result once again exposes that the root cause of the council’s inability to quell the conflict in Gaza is the repeated obstruction by the United States, said Fu in an explanation of the vote.

    Washington has vetoed the Security Council’s request for a Gaza ceasefire multiple times. And because of its shielding of Israel, several resolutions adopted by the council on Gaza have yet to be effectively implemented, he noted.

    The U.S. claim that Security Council action at the moment would interfere with diplomatic efforts is completely untenable, he said. “As long as diplomatic efforts are genuinely aimed for peace, the council’s action will only provide strong support.”

    The international community will never cease its efforts to pursue fairness and justice, uphold the international rule of law, and safeguard the authority of the Security Council. A veto by a single permanent member cannot stop the march toward peace, he said. “We urge the United States to face up to its responsibilities as a permanent member of the Security Council, abandon its political calculations, and adopt a just and responsible attitude in supporting the council to take all necessary actions.”

    Since the outbreak of the conflict, the world has witnessed the weaponization of humanitarian aid, the targeting of civilian infrastructure, and the ruthless killing of journalists and humanitarian workers. Israel’s actions have crossed every red line of international humanitarian law and seriously violated Security Council and General Assembly resolutions, as well as the provisional measures ordered by the International Court of Justice, said Fu.

    Yet due to the shielding by one certain country, these violations have not been stopped or held accountable, he noted.

    Observing international humanitarian law is an obligation. Any double standards or selective application will only erode the foundation of the international rule of law and must be firmly rejected, he warned.

    China stands ready to work with the international community to help end the conflict in Gaza, alleviate the humanitarian disaster, implement the two-state solution, and ultimately achieve a comprehensive, just, and lasting solution to the Palestinian question, said Fu. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: EU warns US tariff hike on steel, aluminum threatens trade talks

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

    The European Union’s (EU) trade chief warned on Wednesday that the United States’ decision to raise tariffs on steel and aluminum “clearly doesn’t help the ongoing negotiations” and risks undermining recent progress.

    European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security Maros Sefcovic made the remarks at a press conference in Paris during the OECD 2025 Ministerial Council Meeting, held Tuesday and Wednesday.

    The EU trade chief added that the EU stands ready to defend its interests and will do its utmost to rebalance bilateral trade should negotiations collapse.

    Sefcovic said that during a meeting with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, he had told him the EU strongly regrets Washington’s decision to raise duties on imported steel and aluminium from 25 percent to 50 percent, effective Wednesday.

    “I explained to him that it clearly doesn’t help the ongoing negotiations, especially as we are making progress,” he said.

    He noted that transatlantic trade accounts for roughly 30 percent of global commerce and warned that if the relationship does not function properly, its repercussions would ripple beyond the two sides and across the global trading system. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Canada’s union calls for countermeasures against US escalating tariffs

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

    Steel pipes are seen at a steel supplier’s facility in Delta, British Columbia, Canada, June 3, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Canada’s largest private sector union, Unifor, on Wednesday urged the federal government to act without delay to counter the escalating steel and aluminum tariffs initiated by the United States.

    The decision by U.S. President Donald Trump to double tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum imports to 50 percent is a direct threat to Canadian jobs and economic stability, said the union in a news release.

    “These tariffs are killing investment in our steel, aluminum, and auto sectors, and we are already seeing the consequences in lost jobs and economic instability,” said Unifor National President Lana Payne. “We need immediate and forceful action to defend good jobs and safeguard our national economic security.”

    The 50 percent tariff, which came into effect on Wednesday, doubles the previous 25 percent duty imposed on Canadian steel and aluminum imports since March 2025.

    Canada remains the largest supplier of both steel and aluminum to the United States. The United States imports approximately a quarter of its steel from Canadian suppliers, while half of all U.S. aluminum consumption originates from Canada.

    Unifor is Canada’s largest union in the private sector, representing 320,000 workers in every major area of the economy. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: US stocks close mixed on weak hiring data in private sector

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

    U.S. stocks closed mixed on Wednesday as investors digested weaker-than-expected private-sector hiring data and remained cautious amid fresh U.S.-China trade tensions, following the implementation of a steep steel and aluminum tariff hike.

    The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 91.90 points, or 0.22 percent, ending the session at 42,427.74, while the S&P 500 inched up 0.44 points, or 0.01 percent, to 5,970.81. The Nasdaq Composite gained 61.53 points, or 0.32 percent, to close at 19,460.49.

    Sector performance was split, with six of the S&P 500’s 11 major groups finishing higher. Communication services and materials led the way, rising 1.36 percent and 0.35 percent, respectively. On the downside, energy and utilities were the weakest performers, falling 1.89 percent and 1.70 percent.

    Investor sentiment was dampened by the ADP National Employment Report, which showed private-sector hiring slowed significantly in May. Only 37,000 jobs were added, the weakest figure in over two years and far short of analyst expectation of 110,000 ones.

    Further economic data reflected softening conditions. The Institute for Supply Management’s Services Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) fell to 49.9 in May, slipping into contraction territory for just the fourth time in five years. The reading came in below April’s 51.6 and missed economist forecasts for an increase to 52, suggesting service sector growth is losing steam.

    Jefferies economist Tom Simons wrote in a note to clients that the data likely reflect “more signs of a pause in activity rather than a steep contraction.” “A broad pause is not a good thing, and the uncertainty that precipitated this pause has not shown any signs of lifting,” he said.

    Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump lashed out at Fed Chair Jerome Powell on social media again, calling for immediate rate cuts.

    Adding to market jitters, Trump’s order to double tariffs on steel and aluminum imports to 50 percent took effect Wednesday, with only the United Kingdom exempted. The deadline also arrived for U.S. trading partners to submit “best offers” to avoid a broader wave of retaliatory tariffs slated for July.

    Barclays’ Head of U.S. Equity Strategy Venu Krishna said that recent market movement reflects a “broad realization” that the extreme tariff rhetoric may not fully materialize, though it continues to create uncertainty for investors. “The bottom line is that while uncertainty remains high around the eventual tariff outcome, the rate of change on policy headwinds has become much less onerous.” Wilson said. “This has reduced recession risk and is giving corporates and consumers more confidence in the forward looking outlook.”

    The S&P 500 index will peak in the second quarter and then correct to the range of 5,250 points to 5,500 points in the second half of 2025, according to a presentation by Stifel on Tuesday.

    Major technology companies showed mixed performance on Wednesday. Meta Platforms advanced 3.16 percent, while chipmaker Broadcom, set to release earnings on Thursday, gained 1.65 percent. Nvidia, Microsoft, Amazon, and Alphabet posted modest increases. In contrast, electric vehicle manufacturer Tesla dropped 3.55 percent, and Apple edged down slightly. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Ancelotti eyes balanced Brazil for World Cup qualifiers

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

    New Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti said Wednesday that his plan for the national team will not be based solely on flair, but also on grit and defensive organization, as he prepares for his debut against Ecuador in World Cup qualifying.

    Ancelotti, who led Real Madrid to multiple titles including two Champions League crowns with several Brazilians in his squad, said the five-time World Cup champions must play a “complete game” if they are to meet expectations.

    “You can’t just do one good thing,” Ancelotti told reporters. “I believe we will be fine in attack because of the creativity we have. In defense, we need to have a united team that competes, fights and works together.”

    The 65-year-old Italian declined to reveal his starting lineup before Thursday’s match at Estadio Monumental in Guayaquil.

    Rodrygo (L) of Brazil shoots past Johan Mojica of Colombia during the 2026 FIFA World Cup Latin American Qualifier football match between Brazil and Colombia in Brasilia, Brazil, March 20, 2025. (Photo by Lucio Tavora/Xinhua)

    But he said he would aim for balance while prioritizing a compact shape in defense, without limiting his players to a rigid formation.

    “I don’t want a team with a clear identity. We have to defend well, whether it’s 4-3-3 or 4-4-2. We have to defend together and be creative with the ball.”

    One of the challenges facing Ancelotti is how to bring out the best in Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior, who has struggled to replicate his club form for the national team.

    The 24-year-old has scored just six goals in 39 appearances for Brazil since his international debut in 2019.

    “I don’t know if he’s been at his best here, but he has time to do what he does at Real Madrid,” Ancelotti said. “For us, he’s a fundamental player. We have to work to ensure he performs at his best here.”

    Ancelotti had words of praise for teenage Palmeiras forward Estevao, who will join Chelsea in July.

    The 18-year-old could make his first start for Brazil against Ecuador in the absence of Barcelona’s Raphinha, who is suspended due to an accumulation of red cards.

    “He’s got a special talent… he’s got character, he’s a good person and he’s humble,” Ancelotti said. “But he’s a young player and we have to be patient and careful. He has the characteristics to be very important for the future of the national team.”

    Brazil currently sits fourth in South America’s qualifying standings, with the top six teams earning direct entry to next year’s World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada.

    Ancelotti’s team could secure a berth in the tournament with a win over Ecuador and another against Paraguay in Sao Paulo next Tuesday.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Elderly daycare emerges to meet needs of Chinese families

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

    Staff members cut hair for clients at an elderly care center in Shenyang City, northeast China’s Liaoning Province, March 5, 2025.(Xinhua/Bai Yongquan)

    Almost every morning in Panjin, a city in northeast China’s Liaoning Province, 68-year-old Yang Yonghua walks to a neighborhood elderly care center accompanied by his son, a local barbecue restaurant owner. At this care center, he socializes, crafts things, shares meals and receives therapy with friends.

    This is China’s burgeoning model of daytime elderly care, a hybrid solution bridging home care and full-time nursing homes.

    Dubbed “elderly kindergarten,” these centers offer a structured schedule — breakfast, activities, lunch, naps, afternoon therapy, dinner and evening freshening up, all before families return for pickup.

    “It’s more interesting than home,” Yang said, reflecting the sentiment of many seniors finding unexpected joy in this new routine. His son, grappling with late-night shifts at the diner, found immediate relief after the center started operation in the summer of 2023.

    This shift in terms of elderly care is being propelled by both an urgent need and national policy. China’s population aged 60 and over had surpassed 310 million as of the end of 2024, accounting for 22 percent of its citizens, according to the National Bureau of Statistics. Recognizing that many seniors have deep ties to their communities and families, authorities are promoting neighborhood-based solutions.

    The Ministry of Civil Affairs mandated community-level daytime centers offering daily care, meals, hygiene aid, emergency response and companionship. Local governments have tailored these mandates into concrete services — bathing assistance, medical escort and housekeeping.

    In the Seni District of Nagqu in southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region, seniors pay just 20 yuan (around 2.78 U.S. dollars) daily for lunch and dinner and more than a dozen services ranging from mahjong to therapy, while northwest China’s Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region is aiming for 90-percent coverage of such facilities this year.

    The city of Hengshui in Hebei Province in north China has integrated businesses and community resources in launching 22 model hubs combining long-term stays, daycare, entertainment and dining for the elderly.

    The impact of such initiatives resonates deeply for families like that of Li Shihua, 88, who has dementia. Attending a daycare center which specializes in cognitive care in northeast China’s Dalian, her health has steadily improved, according to her family. Structured monitoring and medication management bring order and vitality to residents at this facility, significantly easing caregiver and family strain.

    Notably, innovations continue to unfold. Cities like Beijing and south China’s Guangzhou are piloting “co-care” spaces merging childcare and eldercare, supported by free public venues and subsidized utilities.

    Underpinning this expansion is a push for the establishment of standards. Authorities have released 51 national or industry benchmarks covering safety, quality and facility ratings — alongside over a hundred local standards.

    Experts believe that for people navigating work and filial duty, these daytime havens are more than a convenience. Instead, they’re becoming indispensable threads in the fabric of family life, offering community and care where it matters most — close to home. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: EIT launches next phase of RSE training programme

    Source: Eastern Institute of Technology

    13 minutes ago

    EIT has officially launched a refreshed phase of the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) Worker Training Programme, set to equip thousands of Pacific seasonal workers with practical skills.

    The new programme, known as NOA Village of Learning, marks the beginning of Phase III of the MFAT-funded initiative, which has been running since 2007. The contract, which was awarded to EIT at the end of last year, will see the institute deliver more than 150 courses annually to up to 2,250 RSE workers across the country.

    The training focuses on building transferable skills that workers can use both during their time in New Zealand and when they return home to support their families and communities. Courses are already underway in the Bay of Plenty, Nelson and Marlborough and Hawke’s Bay. Further rollouts are planned for Central Otago, Auckland and Northland.

    Community and industry leaders, staff and invited guests gathered at EIT’s Hawke’s Bay Campus to celebrate the launch of NOA – Village of Learning, the next phase of the RSE Worker Training Programme.

    The programme was launched last month with a pōwhiri and a Fijian-led kava ceremony at EIT’s Hawke’s Bay Campus in Taradale. Around 70 guests attended, including Hastings Mayor Sandra Hazlehurst, representatives from Tuvalu, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu, iwi leaders, church ministers, RSE employers and workers, government officials and industry partners.

    EIT Operations Lead Glen Harkness said the programme reflects EIT’s commitment to growth and community.

    “NOA is designed to support RSE workers on their journey to growth and the future,” Glen said. “At EIT we believe education and training is not just a process. It is a pathway to growth, community and success.”

    He said NOA represents more than workforce development.

    “This initiative is about strengthening social and economic wellbeing across the Pacific,” he said. “It reflects what can be achieved when we listen, collaborate and work together with a shared purpose.”
    RSE Pacific Advisory Group Chair Tofilau Talalelei Taufale said: “This is the dawning of a refreshed approach to work-skills development for RSE workers”.

    “Not only that, the wider implications with pedagogy and learner-centred curriculum will add to the weaving of the ʻie toga’, the fine mat of Pacific education here at EIT.”

    EIT RSE National Operations Manager Meriama Taufale, who leads the implementation of NOA, said it was a privilege to serve in this space.

    “Education is power, but being educated is powerful. Being able to enable and empower our RSE workers and their whānau to participate in the RSE Worker Training Programme is, for some, life-changing.”

    RSE workers led a Fijian Kava ceremony at EIT’s Hawke’s Bay Campus to celebrate the launch of a refreshed phase of the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) Worker Training Programme.

    She said the programme is built around a Pacific philosophy of reciprocity and reintegration.

    “It is only right that we give them something to take home, considering a lot of the social disruption that happens in the RSE sector and what they are giving up to be here,” she said.

    The programme includes two learning streams. NIU Learning, formerly Essential Learning, introduces skills such as financial literacy, digital capability, healthy living and human rights. MANAVA, the elective stream, includes hands-on vocational training in trades, small business, leadership and hospitality, aligned to the needs of labour-sending countries.

    Meriama describes the model as community-driven and culturally grounded.

    “The key for us is that we have facilitators who are language speakers so they can contextualise the learning. This will ensure it is not the team leaders or workers who have to translate,” she said. “We are also in the process of translating the learning material for them as well.”

    Meriama said the launch marked a major milestone for the team and that collaboration would be key to its success.

    “This has been a huge milestone for the team. But it is only the beginning of what we hope to build together because it really does take a village.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: EIT carpentry apprentice to compete at national building final

    Source: Eastern Institute of Technology

    56 seconds ago

    EIT carpentry apprentice Hohepa Goulton (Ngāti Kahungunu) will represent Hawke’s Bay at the New Zealand Certified Builders Apprentice Challenge National Final, after winning the regional title earlier this year.

    The 19-year-old from Flaxmere is in his second year of the New Zealand Certificate in Carpentry (Level 4) and studies at EIT while working full-time at Mark Roil Hawkes Bay Homes.

    EIT carpentry apprentice Hohepa Goulton (Ngāti Kahungunu) will represent Hawke’s Bay at the NZCB Apprentice Challenge National Final in Hamilton this weekend, after winning the regional title in April.

    He is one of 19 regional champions from across the country set to compete in the national final, to be held this weekend (June 6–7) in Hamilton.

    “I’m a bit nervous, but I’m happy about it. It’s a cool opportunity and I’m proud to be going,” Hohepa says.
    Over two days, finalists will take part in a four-part competition that assesses their practical skills, communication, and career readiness.

    The practical skills test will see each apprentice given just one hour to build a traditional saw stool using hand and small power tools. Judging will focus on accuracy, speed, and technique, and will be carried out by industry professionals, including last year’s apprentice winner.

    Finalists will also complete a panel interview, deliver a project presentation, and submit a CV and portfolio showcasing their work and community involvement. The overall National Champion will be announced at the NZCB Gala Dinner on Saturday evening and will take home the prestigious Ken Read Memorial Trophy along with $10,000 worth of prizes.

    Hohepa earned his place at the national final after winning the Hawke’s Bay regional event in April. He had just eight hours to construct a planter box, which he has since donated to Te Kōhanga Reo o Keita Puriri rāua ko Hana Cotter.

    It wasn’t his first time competing. Last year, Hohepa came fourth in the same regional competition, just four months into his apprenticeship.

    Returning this year with a full year of experience and a new level of confidence, the result was different.

    “It means a lot. Last year I didn’t really know how to use the tools properly. This year I felt way more confident and just gave it a go. I didn’t expect to come first.”

    He says his success reflects the support he’s received through both his apprenticeship and EIT training.

    “The tutors and qualified builders have been a big help. I asked a lot of questions before the competition, and they showed me little tricks to help with setup and technique. That made a big difference.”

    A former Hastings Boys’ High School student, Hohepa discovered his love of carpentry in Year 10 wood tech. He continued with practical classes throughout school and was named top student in his Year 13 pre-trade course. With no immediate job lined up after graduation, he reached out to his teacher, who helped connect him with his current employer just two weeks after finishing school.

    Now, with the national final ahead, Hohepa is focused on the bigger picture.

    “I want to become a qualified builder and one day build my own dream home. I just love building. It’s hands-on, creative, and no two days are the same.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Parliament Hansard Report – Business Statement – 001502

    Source: New Zealand Parliament

    BUSINESS STATEMENT

    Hon CHRIS BISHOP (Leader of the House): Today, the House will adjourn until Tuesday, 24 June. That week, the House will consider the second readings of the Appropriation (2024/25 Supplementary Estimates) Bill and the imprest supply bill, as well as the third readings of the Invest New Zealand Bill, the Rates Rebate Amendment Bill, the Racing Industry Amendment Bill, and the Employment Relations (Pay Deductions for Partial Strikes) Amendment Bill.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Parliament Hansard Report – Karakia/Prayers – 001503

    Source: New Zealand Parliament

    THURSDAY, 5 JUNE 2025

    The Deputy Speaker took the Chair at 2 p.m.

    KARAKIA/PRAYERS

    GREG O’CONNOR (Assistant Speaker—Labour): Almighty God, we give thanks for the blessings which have been bestowed on us. Laying aside all personal interests, we acknowledge the King and pray for guidance in our deliberations that we may conduct the affairs of this House with wisdom, justice, mercy, and humility for the welfare and peace of New Zealand. Amen.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –