NewzIntel.com

Category: KB

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Sobyanin: Six more Russian regions to join Moscow’s AI platform for medical services

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    More than 75 percent of the country’s regions are already working withmedical services on the platform “MosMedia”. This year, six more subjects of the Russian Federation will join it. Sergei Sobyanin said this in his telegram channel.

    “The platform offers 17 services to speed up and improve the accuracy of analysis of computer tomography, radiography, mammography and fluorography. AI algorithms draw the doctor’s attention to pathologies using color markings on medical images and prepare conclusions. These solutions have undergone a full cycle of testing and have been used in Moscow hospitals and clinics for five years,” the Moscow Mayor wrote.

    Source: Sergei Sobyanin’s Telegram channel @Mos_Sobyanin

    The regions joining the capital’s AI services platform is another step towards the digitalization of healthcare throughout the country.

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

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

    https: //vv.mos.ru/mayor/tkhemes/12324050/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Development Asia: From Guesswork to Precision: Enhancing Agricultural Mapping with Geospatial Tech

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    The growing accessibility of geospatial technologies is reshaping how agricultural statistics are gathered, processed, and disseminated. Advanced technologies like remote sensing using satellite imagery, GPS, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) offer the potential for more efficient methods to monitor changes in agriculture with greater precision and frequency.

    When considering the most suitable method for GPS land measurement, several critical factors—such as the size, shape, and terrain of the parcel—must be considered, along with available resources.

    Walking method: The common method involves an enumerator, usually guided by the farmer, physically walking the perimeter of a parcel while carrying a GPS device, which automatically tracks and calculates the area. This approach reduces the need for multiple pieces of surveying equipment and extensive training for field staff. Furthermore, the time required for measurement is limited to the duration of walking the parcel’s perimeter, significantly streamlining the overall process. It is recommended when the highest positional accuracy and measurement precision are required.

    Moreover, GPS measurement methods integrated into tablets can be advantageous in certain cases, particularly due to their convenience and potential integration with other data collection tools.

    The walking method, whether using a dedicated handheld GPS device or an on-tablet GPS sensor, is particularly effective for smaller parcels with complex shapes and easily navigable terrain. It allows for precise boundary capture but can be time-consuming for larger parcels, potentially taking up to one hour for areas exceeding 10,000 m².

    Digitization method: Conversely, the digitization method is more suitable for large, monocropped areas. This method involves the farmer tracing the boundary of their parcel directly over a satellite image, negating the need for the farmer and enumerator to walk the boundary physically. Key to the success of this approach is the ability of the farmer to accurately recognize their land from an aerial perspective and the assumption that the satellite imagery is up-to-date and reflects the current agricultural season.

    Parcel corner GPS: The parcel corner GPS method involves an enumerator identifying and marking only the corners of the parcel using the Survey Solutions geometry multi-point question type to speed up the data input process. The goal is to capture the essential boundaries of the parcel more easily. The key challenge in using this method is the difficulty in accurately identifying corner points, particularly in irregularly shaped parcels. Significant inaccuracies in area measurement may also occur if enumerators are not properly trained and well-versed in using the field instruments.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Key considerations for renewable energy developers seeking private capital to fund expansion

    Source: Allens Insights

    Establishing renewable energy platforms and capital partnerships 8 min read

    As renewable energy developers look to expand their project pipelines and operational portfolios, many are turning to private capital sources to help fund their expansion plans. Increasingly, that capital is being sought through newly established platforms between developers and investors that jointly own the renewable projects through a legal ownership structure separate from the developer’s remaining business.

    Establishing renewable energy platforms and capital partnerships requires a strategic balance of risk mitigation and the optimisation of growth opportunities in an increasingly competitive environment. Each platform and capital partnership is unique, necessitating customisation based on the objectives and risk tolerance levels of the parties involved. With robust planning and transparent communication from day one, these capital partnerships can help drive the energy transition while delivering attractive returns for investors.

    In this Insight, we explore the key issues for developers and investors to consider when establishing a capital partnership for a new renewable energy platform.

    Key takeaways

    • Commitment to the platform: each party should seek a form of commitment to the platform from the other. We are increasingly seeing both developers and investors be willing to provide that commitment in the form of an exclusivity undertaking, pursuant to which the parties are prohibited from developing or funding projects outside of the platform (subject to certain carveouts).
    • Operational model: new platforms are typically structured as either a standalone business or a simple ownership vehicle where operational functionality is outsourced back to the developer. Alignment between the parties on the preferred approach, and how it impacts key issues such as revenue strategy and exit, is a key to success.
    • Funding obligations: the parties’ funding obligations to the platform should be designed to ensure the platform receives sufficient funding to develop, acquire and operate projects. However, while certainty of funding is important, the parties should avoid rigid frameworks (which set out precise financial and operational criteria for investment in new projects), which run the risk of stifling growth (particularly when dealing with seasoned developers with a track record of bringing projects to market).
    • Governance and regulatory considerations: when evaluating potential investors/platform partners, developers should consider the regulatory implications relevant to each investor (in particular in relation to tax, FIRB, AFSL and ACCC requirements), and how those implications may affect the day-to-day operation of the platform.
    • Debt financing strategy: the platform’s debt financing structure must be adaptable to accommodate new projects and multiple funding sources, ensuring room for future growth without excessive lender restrictions.
    • Funding and compensation: any platform must be structured in a way that recognises the different initial and ongoing contributions from both the developer and the investor. In particular, developers should ensure they are properly compensated for the seed assets vended into the platform.

    Key considerations

    Commitment to the platform

    Notwithstanding the specific technology focus of the platform, such as solar, wind, BESS, other forms of generation and storage, or all of the above, each party should seek a form of commitment to the platform from the other with respect to the relevant technology focus. While it might be expected that the developer provides a stronger form of commitment, limiting their ability to develop projects of the applicable technology outside the platform, investors are increasingly also willing to ‘put all their eggs in one basket’ and accept a form of exclusive commitment. This is often based on the understanding that, through diligence and alignment with the developer on key principles, the platform is their best means of investing in that technology in Australia. If an investor is willing to make such a commitment, establishing carveouts to ensure they are not inappropriately constrained is essential. Investors will often seek to ensure the commitment does not cover existing investments, projects outside the geography, investments via other funds and projects beyond a specific capacity range.

    Structuring your operating model

    When establishing a new platform, developers have two primary operational model options to consider: standalone platforms and ownership vehicles. Each model has distinct characteristics, benefits and challenges that can significantly impact the platform’s success.

    Standalone platforms operate as independent businesses with their own management teams and operational autonomy. For standalone platforms, a key focus should be on selecting the right management team. This process typically takes time, so it’s important to establish a robust transition plan in which the developer provides the necessary support until the management team is fully onboarded.

    Ownership vehicles function through a network of development and service agreements where operational functionality is outsourced back to the developer. This model leverages existing capabilities within the developer’s organisation but operates under a separate legal structure.

    Whatever the operational structure, a key to success is ensuring alignment between the developer and investor from the outset—particularly on headline issues such as revenue strategy (especially important for BESS assets, which offer a variety of potential revenue options, eg tolling agreements, Capacity Investment Scheme agreements, system support agreements, merchant operations, etc) and exit strategy.

    Certainty of funding

    As a vehicle designed to fund both seed and future projects, funding obligations are often the most heavily negotiated elements of platform arrangements. In an ideal scenario for developers, they would retain full control over financial investment decisions (FID) and funding decisions, allowing them to call for capital as needed. Meanwhile, in a perfect world for investors, they would have complete discretion over which projects their capital is used to fund.

    To avoid potential deadlocks with respect to funding decisions, including through the exercise of veto rights, one approach is for the investor to make an upfront capital commitment. This requires them to fund a pre-agreed amount (at a pre-agreed valuation) for a set of seed and pipeline assets, which they diligence at the outset. Once this initial capital is provided, future funding can be provided on a pre-emptive basis, potentially tied to target return criteria and procedural milestones that must be met before a project is onboarded to the platform or funded via FID.

    While this strategy helps prevent deadlocks that could hinder platform growth, it’s important to recognise that a one-size-fits-all approach may not be ideal. In our experience, rigid procedures around project onboarding and funding may not serve the platform’s best interests, particularly when developers have a proven track record of managing development and construction risks in a more flexible manner. Retaining flexibility with regards to milestone requirements to take FID may enable the platform to reprioritise projects in response to shifting market demands and opportunities.

    Managing governance and regulatory requirements

    When evaluating potential investors, developers should consider a range of factors beyond simply choosing the one with the deepest pockets. Issues such as Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) implications (particularly whether an investor’s involvement will characterise the platform as a ‘foreign government investor’ or FGI), Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL) requirements and complex competition law concerns can create significant challenges for the platform if not addressed and managed at the outset.

    Tax implications must also be considered. For example, upcoming changes to the foreign resident capital gains tax regime in Australia—specifically how ‘taxable Australian real property’ is defined in the context of renewable energy assets—may affect after-tax returns for foreign developers and investors.

    These changes, expected to come into effect on 1 July 2025, could have substantial impacts on renewable energy platforms and should be closely monitored.

    Implementing your debt financing strategy

    The initial debt financing required to establish the platform and transition seed and early-stage assets to the platform will depend on the number and characteristics of those assets, including the technology type and whether the assets are operational or under construction, merchant or contracted, etc.

    Whatever the makeup of that initial financing, flexibility for growth is key. In particular, the debt financing structure must be flexible enough to accommodate:

    • the inclusion of new greenfield and operating assets (with a focus on minimising lender consent rights);
    • construction financing for greenfield projects, either within the portfolio financing structure or separately financed outside the portfolio through an excluded subsidiary mechanism and brought in once the project is operational (subject to risk tolerance on a case-by-case basis); and
    • multisource financing options (including bank debt, private long-term credit and note issuance) with the necessary intercreditor mechanics.

    Funding structure

    The platform will need to be structured in a way that recognises the different initial contributions from both the developer and the investor. In most platforms, the developer provides seed and pipeline assets, while the investor supplies capital for the development and construction of those assets.

    An investor’s capital contribution typically needs to be structured so that the platform can draw down the capital over time, on an as-needed basis to fund project capex. This can be achieved through various methods, such as partly paid shares or equity ‘catch up’ or ‘farm-in’ regimes, with the optimum approach usually driven by the investor’s requirement regarding governance rights from day one, FIRB considerations and any potential requirement to ‘return’ capital commitments in the future.

    From the developer’s perspective, it is essential to ensure that they are properly compensated for the seed assets transferred into the platform. Whether that compensation takes the form of equity in the platform or proceeds from the transfer of assets, it would typically reflect (for each asset/project) all devex spent on the project, fees for the origination and development services provided and, where applicable, a development premium.

    Key questions to ask

    • Asset strategy: what technology should the platform focus on? Solar, wind, BESS, other forms of generation and storage, or all of the above? Whatever the technology, what level of commitment is each party willing to give to the platform and what carve outs to the commitment are needed?
    • Operational model: should the platform be structured as a standalone business with its own management team and operational autonomy, or as an ownership vehicle that, through a network of development and services agreements, outsources operational functionality to the developer?
    • Funding obligations: what level of capital commitment is required from both parties at the outset? How will future funding needs be determined and agreed upon? Are there predefined criteria or milestones that need to be met for additional funding to be provided?
    • Governance and regulatory: are FIRB, AFSL, ACCC and tax requirements fully understood and planned for?
    • Debt financing strategy: how flexible is the debt financing structure in accommodating new assets and various stages of project development? Are there multisource financing options (ie bank debt, private long-term credit or note issuance) and how will the necessary intercreditor mechanics be managed?
    • Funding structure: how will initial contributions from both developer and investor be recognised within the platform structure? What methods (eg partly paid shares, equity ‘catch up’, farm-in regimes) will facilitate drawdown of capital over time? How will developers be compensated for seed assets transferred into the platform?

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Panasonic Newly Unveiled KAIROS New Version: Control Up to Two Kairos Core by One Panel and Supports various resolutions such as 16:10

    Source: Panasonic

    Headline: Panasonic Newly Unveiled KAIROS New Version: Control Up to Two Kairos Core by One Panel and Supports various resolutions such as 16:10

    Osaka, Japan – January 29, 2025 – Panasonic Entertainment & Communication today announced the release of the new software “Version 1.8” will be available in February 2025.
    With version 1.8, which includes new Multiple Core Control features, integration with graphics platforms Singular.live and Viz Flowics, and support for more diverse resolutions such as 16:10 and 5:4, KAIROS is a great addition to the game for large live events and broadcasters. We offer video production systems with a high degree of freedom and ease of use for customers who require high quality, rich video production across multiple locations.
    The new version allows up to two Kairos Core mainframes to be connected to a single Kairos Control Panel. This allows more video sources to be handled and improves the efficiency of the KAIROS operation at large events. Previously, it was possible to register up to eight Control Panels from the Kairos Core side, but since the Control Panel can only be registered to one specific Kairos Core, a corresponding number of Control Panels were required to operate multiple Kairos Cores. Using this feature, for one panel can be divided into an upper and lower sections, for example, and each Core can be assigned to each section. In addition, two Kairos Core units can also be configured from Kairos Creator.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI China: Macao SAR eyes new progress in Year of Snake

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    The chief executive of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) Sam Hou Fai said on Tuesday that in the Year of the Snake, Macao will strive to enhance governance capacity, promote economic diversification, and proactively integrate into the national development paradigm.
    Sam made the remarks in his Spring Festival message, extending New Year wishes to the residents of Macao.
    Noting that the snake symbolizes wisdom, sensitivity, flexibility, and auspiciousness in Chinese culture, Sam said that while there may be uncertainties on the path toward the future and rapid changes may occur in the international landscape, the motherland “will always be our staunch supporter.”
    The chief executive noted that this new year marks the first year of the inauguration of the sixth-term SAR government, adding, “We will continue to strengthen the implementation of the ‘one country, two systems’ principle and uphold national security with a greater sense of responsibility.”
    In constructing the Guangdong-Macao In-depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin, Sam underlined that he and his team will make achievements in implementing innovative policies and integrating regulations, bolster advancements in industry development and foundation building, and expedite a new stage of Macao-Hengqin integration in the areas of systems, mechanisms, policies, and others.
    Zheng Xincong, director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Macao SAR, said on Tuesday that with the care of the central government, strong support of the motherland, and joint efforts of the SAR government and all sectors of society, the “one country, two systems” policy will certainly take new steps and present a new outlook.
    Standing at a new historic starting point, he added, it is believed that Macao will make the path toward appropriate economic diversification broader and more solid.
    Liu Xianfa, commissioner of China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the Macao SAR, said in his message that in the new year, the foreign affairs office will further strengthen safeguarding national security, fully support the chief executive and the SAR government in governing by law, and assist the SAR in expanding foreign exchanges and cooperation.
    Liu added that the office will also promote the introduction of more measures to facilitate the movement of people between China and foreign countries, increase efforts to attract international investment to the in-depth cooperation zone in Hengqin, and better protect the rights and interests of Macao compatriots overseas. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: On the Senate Floor, Cortez Masto Calls Out Trump’s Anti-Law Enforcement Pardons

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    “Earlier today, my Democratic colleagues and I co-sponsored a resolution to condemn these pardons. One would think that my Republican colleagues who claim to be pro-law enforcement would sign onto this resolution and stand against any action that harms our police.”
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) blasted President Trump on the Senate floor for pardoning a drug trafficking kingpin and the violent criminals who assaulted police officers on January 6, 2021. A former prosecutor and Nevada attorney general, Cortez Masto urged her supposedly pro-law enforcement Republican colleagues to join her resolution condemning these pardons.
    Below are her remarks as prepared for delivery:
    Mr. President, I’m so appreciative of my colleagues coming down here to talk about not only the January 6 pardons that President Trump has done but to stand with the men and women in law enforcement.
    When I’m home, quite often I will hear at times that “well, Democrats don’t support law enforcement, they don’t support the men and women who keep our communities safe.” And that’s just not true, as you can see today.
    But here’s what I know, and this is why this was devastating to so many men and women who not only are Capitol Police officers right here, who defended our Capitol on January 6, who stand to protect us, but for all of the men and women in law enforcement across this country who are paying attention and watching what this president does.
    Will he have their back when the time comes? Will he be there to truly support them in their time of need when they’re doing their job like he says he will?
    Now, we’ve spent the last decade hearing Donald Trump talk about “law and order” and cracking down on crime. Last fall, on a national podcast, he called for giving our law enforcement their “dignity back”. Just last week at a White House press conference, he claimed to be a friend of the police.
    Well, Donald Trump has been in office for just one week, and already his actions are making it clear that he doesn’t mean what he says. In fact, from his actions we’ve seen so far, he’s actively working against our men and women in law enforcement – not only here who work at this Capitol, but across this country.
    Let me put this in starker terms that I think my Republican colleagues will understand. Mr. President, Nevada families across my state have been torn apart by dangerous drugs like methamphetamines and opioids. And that’s true for so many families across the country.
    It doesn’t matter if they’re Democrats, Republicans, Libertarians, or independents – illicit drug trafficking is impacting everyone in this country.
    But last week, Donald Trump pardoned the founder of Silk Road, an underground internet site that oversaw the trafficking of $200 million in illegal drugs and other illicit trade.
    The founder was convicted by a jury of his peers and sentenced to life in prison for participating in a criminal organization and distributing narcotics on the internet.
    Americans died after purchasing illicit drugs on his website. A website that was specifically designed to skirt the law and support criminal activity.
    But now, this founder is walking free because of Donald Trump.
    Donald Trump giving a full, unconditional pardon to this drug dealer and criminal profiteer is a slap in the face to the victims of this crisis, and to law enforcement who work to protect our communities and to take drug traffickers like him off our streets.
    What Donald Trump has done is not law and order, it’s chaos.
    And it’s not just with this one pardon.
    Donald Trump has also pardoned more than 130 individuals who were convicted of assaulting police officers right here at the Capitol on January 6, 2021.
    I was here that day. I remember running into a Capitol Police officer who was pepper-sprayed by a rioter in Donald Trump’s mob. And at the same time that he was washing out his eyes, he was saying to us senators, “Don’t worry. I’ve got your back, and I am standing guard.” And he ran back out to the front of the Capitol. He was doing his job.
    That day, those rioters and insurrectionists brought weapons and zip ties to the Capitol, they used WD-40 and bear spray on our officers, and they assaulted Capitol Police with American flags.
    This isn’t some political conspiracy – these insurrectionists posted videos online of themselves shoving, punching, and attacking our law enforcement.
    And now, instead of serving their time and facing the consequences for the dangerous actions they committed against our police officers, Donald Trump is telling them that not only were they wrongfully punished, but in fact, their behavior on that day is encouraged – as long as they’re doing his bidding.
    Criminals convicted of attacking law enforcement are giving TV interviews saying that President Trump’s pardons have vindicated their actions.
    This is an endorsement of political violence, and it’s an insult to the men and women who risk their lives every day to keep our families safe.
    I know many law enforcement officers personally. As a former prosecutor and attorney general of the state of Nevada, I’ve spent most of my life working with some great men and women in law enforcement.
    And by the way, I’m married to one. My husband worked in federal law enforcement his entire career. His priority was doing his job and keeping people safe, because that’s what our law enforcement is trained to do. To put their lives on the line every single time to keep our communities safe.
    And it’s not just about the officers – it’s about their families. When you are the spouse or the loved one of an officer who gets that call, sometimes in the middle of the night, and they leave to address some crime or issue and keep your community safe, you don’t know if they’re coming back.
    There are two calls that are the worst kind you can get as the spouse of a law enforcement officer. The first one is from your spouse saying “I’m in the hospital, but don’t worry, everything’s okay.” The second one is not from your spouse, but it’s from another law enforcement officer telling you that your husband or wife went out on a call and didn’t come back.
    The sacrifices of not only our officers but their loved ones need to be considered. And if we truly believe in law and order and we truly believe that we should support them because they put their lives on the line every single day, then we should have their backs. No matter your politics, we should always be there to support them.
    I will always stand up for law enforcement.
    I’ve passed legislation to support public safety under administrations of both parties. And I will always speak out when our leaders act against law enforcement, whether they’re a Democrat or a Republican.
    I disagreed with President Biden granting pardons to his family, I disagreed when he granted clemency for Leonard Peltier, who was convicted of murdering two FBI agents. And I disagree with President Biden in commuting the sentence of Adrian Peeler, who was convicted of drug trafficking and murder.
    I also spoke out when President Biden nominated Adeel Mangi to be a federal judge. I did not support him because of his affiliation with a group that wanted to let cop killers out of prison.
    That was me standing up for law enforcement.
    So believe me when I say, this is not partisan; this is about standing up for the men and women who put their lives on the line for us every day.
    This shouldn’t be hard. You commit a violent crime in our community, you should face the consequences.
    Don’t take my word for it – the Fraternal Order of Police, which is the largest organization of sworn law enforcement officers in the world, has condemned Trump’s pardoning of those who assaulted Capitol Police officers on January 6.
    But there are too many members of this body, who had the benefit of those Capitol Police officers on January 6 protecting their lives, who have been oddly silent.
    Earlier today, my Democratic colleagues and I co-sponsored a resolution to condemn these pardons. One would think that my Republican colleagues who claim to be pro-law enforcement would sign onto this resolution and stand against any action that harms our police.
    If we truly believe in law and order and we want to work together to keep our communities safe, we have to not only talk about it, we have to act.
    Because the American people deserve better. The American people deserve a president who isn’t going to release violent criminals back into our communities. The American people deserve safety – and our law enforcement, who maintain that safety, deserve to know we have their backs.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Klobuchar Statement on Office of Management and Budget Order to Freeze Federal Loan and Grant Programs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Minnesota Amy Klobuchar
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, & Forestry, released the following statement in response to the Office of Management and Budget ordering agencies to withhold approved federal funding. While the freeze is currently on hold due to a temporary emergency federal court order, the proposed cuts are of great concern to rural America.
    “At a time when rural America is already dealing with the uncertainty of proposed tariffs, workforce issues, input costs, and the recent spread of avian flu, the last thing our rural constituents need right now is more chaos and confusion. This proposed freeze could affect everything from rural hospitals to farm loans to crop insurance and biofuels to animal disease prevention to conservation and nutrition programs. Our farmers and ranchers and rural constituents work hard and they need certainty, not chaos from this Administration. As the courts consider this reckless action, I will do all I can to make sure that there is appropriate congressional oversight, that the laws are complied with, and that loans and grant funding continue to rural America.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Man arrested following unprovoked assault in Palmerston North

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Attributable to Detective Sergeant Shelley Ross:

    A man has been arrested following an assault at a Palmerston North Park this afternoon, Wednesday 29 January.

    About 1pm, Police responded to a park on Dogwood Way following reports one person had received injuries consistent with a stab wound following an unprovoked assault.

    One person was transported to Palmerston North Hospital in a serious condition where they are receiving medical treatment.

    Police would like to thank the members of the public who were delayed while Police responded to the incident.

    A 25-year-old man is due to appear in the Palmerston North District Court tomorrow, Thursday 29 January, on charges of wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

    This was a callous and unprovoked attack which we will not tolerate in our community.

    If you witness any unlawful activity, please contact Police on 111 if it is happening now or 105 either online or over the phone if it is after the fact.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Leader of Jackson Gang Admits to Conspiracy to Traffic Unique Form of Fentanyl

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    DETROIT – A Houston, Texas resident and leader of the violent Jackson street gang the “Thorough Bread Family,” Tamarious “Poogi” Faulkner, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to distribute over 400 grams of fentanyl, Acting United States Attorney Julie A. Beck announced today.

    Beck was joined in the announcement by James Deir, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Detroit Field Division, Colonel James F. Grady, II, Michigan State Police, Director Elmer J. Hitt, Jackson Police and Fire Services, and Sheriff Gary Schuette, Jackson County Sheriff’s Department. 

    Tamarious Faulkner, 28, of Houston, Texas, was the leader of the Thorough Bread Family (TBF), a violent street gang that primarily operated in Jackson, Michigan. In his plea, Faulkner admitted that he was the leader of the conspiracy and that he and his co-conspirators distributed large amounts of fentanyl in Jackson. According to court documents, the fentanyl sold by the gang had a unique texture and coloring. Unlike most fentanyl, typically sold in powder form, TBF’s fentanyl was sold in a rock-like crystalline form, and was often colored yellow, purple, or blue, rather than the usual white. Faulkner and his fellow gang members also possessed firearms and machineguns in furtherance of the fentanyl trafficking conspiracy.

    Six other co-conspirators have already been sentenced as follows:

    • Demond Johns, age 27 of Jackson: 128 months’ prison
    • Dominque Faulkner, age 33 of Jackson: 126 months’ prison
    • Zaire Faulkner, age 26 of Jackson: 120 months’ prison
    • Demarquan Smith, age 23 of Jackson: 120 months’ prison
    • Tommy Owens, age 33 of Jackson: 87 months’ prison
    • Mario Murguia, age 24 of Jackson: 60 months’ prison

    “As is so often the case when drugs and gangs intersect, TBF wreaked havoc on a community by peddling poison and protecting their drug business with violence. The United States Attorney’s Office, in coordination with our federal, state, and local partners, will aggressively investigate and prosecute individuals, groups, and gangs like TBF who do so much to corrode public safety and the well-being of a community,” Acting U.S. Attorney Beck said.

    “Today’s guilty plea is a huge win for the Jackson community. The Thorough Bred gang and Dominque Faulkner let their greed and desire for power guide their violent pathway straight into prison like a yellow brick road,” said James Deir ATF Special Agent in Charge of the Detroit Field Division.  Like Dorothy and Toto, they are not in Kansas anymore; their cyclone of gun violence has blown them straight into federal prison for an extended period of time. To be clear: There is no place in our community for people who use illegal firearms to carry out fear, intimidate others, or facilitate drug dealing. Our community deserves better than Mr. Faulkner and his merry gang of thugs.”

    Tamarious Faulkner is scheduled to be sentenced on April 29, 2025, before Judge Stephen J. Murphy, III. Faulkner faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison with a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the Michigan State Police, Jackson Police Department, and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew R. Picek, Matthew Roth, and Craig Welkener.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CS celebrates Chinese New Year with community (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    CS celebrates Chinese New Year with community (with photos)
    CS celebrates Chinese New Year with community (with photos)
    ***********************************************************

         The Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, today (January 29), on the Chinese New Year’s Day, wishes the country to thrive vigorously, for Hong Kong to have harmony and prosperity, and every success to the community. He paid a visit to the Lo Wu Control Point this morning to learn about the various arrangements and operations of relevant departments to cope with the increase in inbound and outbound passenger traffic during the Chinese New Year period. During the visit, he extended his New Year greetings to the staff on duty, and expressed his gratitude to them for performing their duties with dedication during the holidays. Along the way, he took the opportunity to extend his Chinese New Year greetings to the citizens and travellers he met.           Accompanied by the Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-keung; the Director of Immigration, Mr Benson Kwok; and the Commissioner of Customs and Excise, Mr Chan Tsz-tat, Mr Chan inspected the Lo Wu Control Point and met the frontline staff of the Immigration Department (ImmD), the Customs and Excise Department (C&ED) and the Hong Kong Police Force on duty. He learned about the arrangements and operation conditions for customs clearance, diverting passenger movements, public order maintenance, etc at the control point during the Chinese New Year period.            Mr Chan was pleased to note that the relevant government departments have been in close co-ordination and liaison with stakeholders of transport, tourism and other sectors for making good preparation for receiving visitors during the Chinese New Year Golden Week of the Mainland, and ensuring the orderly operation of boundary control points. Relevant departments have minimised leave for frontline officers during the Chinese New Year period, to enable flexible deployment of manpower, and operation of additional counters and channels with a view to diverting passenger and vehicular flow. The Inter-departmental Joint Command Centre set up by the Police, the ImmD, the C&ED, and other relevant departments; and the Emergency Transport Co-ordination Centre of the Transport Department will both operate 24 hours a dayduring the Golden Week, to closely monitor the situation of various control points and traffic conditions, and take prompt measures to ensure the smooth operation of various aspects in receiving visitors. Mr Chan expressed his heartfelt gratitude to colleagues of the Government and practitioners of various industries for their hard work during the Chinese New Year period.           Mr Chan also appealed to visitors arriving in Hong Kong during the Chinese New Year holidays to plan ahead for their itineraries. He encouraged them to stay overnight after participating in various local celebratory activities for the Chinese New Year and to make reference to the ultimate guide to Chinese New Year in Hong Kong launched by the Hong Kong Tourism Board to fully enjoy the rich and diverse celebratory activities to be held across various districts in the city and experience Hong Kong’s unique city charm. At the same time, he instructed relevant departments to collaborate with various stakeholders, including public transport operators, to strengthen information dissemination including the situation at various boundary control points, details of celebration events and transport arrangements to enable residents and visitors to plan their itineraries according to the latest situation.           On January 27, Mr Chan participated in year-end caring visits in 18 districts co-ordinated by the Home Affairs Department. He visited elderly singleton and elderly doubleton grassroots families living in Po Lam Estate, Tseung Kwan O, and distributed blessing bags to them to express the Government’s heartfelt wishes. He engaged in warm exchanges with the residents to let them feel the care and support of the community. He also attended the Yau Tsim Mong Presents – The Year of The Snake: Countdown Celebration at the Yau Ma Tei Community Centre Rest Garden yesterday (January 28) to share with the public the joys and blessings of the festive season and welcome the Year of the Snake. 

     
    Ends/Wednesday, January 29, 2025Issued at HKT 12:15

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Panasonic Leaps “Well into the future” with AI and Data-Driven Innovations at CES 2025 Exhibition Space

    Source: Panasonic

    Headline: Panasonic Leaps “Well into the future” with AI and Data-Driven Innovations at CES 2025 Exhibition Space

    Marking a 58th consecutive year as an exhibitor at one of the world’s most influential consumer electronics events, Panasonic Group was on hand at CES 2025 (January 7–10 in Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S.A.) to engage with audiences about its strategic shift toward AI and data-driven businesses. This year’s CES was host to more than 141,000 visitors and 4,500 exhibitors from more than 150 countries and regions, but not everyone had the opportunity to attend. If you missed out, here are some key highlights from the Panasonic Group exhibition space. 

    Theme Signals Strategic Shift toward AI, Data-Driven Solutions

    The theme for Panasonic Group’s exhibition space was “Well into the future.” Announced by Panasonic Holdings Corporation Co., Ltd. (Panasonic HD) Group CEO Yuki Kusumi during his opening keynote, this year’s theme signified the organization’s strategic shift toward AI and data-driven businesses in pursuit of an ideal society with affluence both in matter and mind.
    “Well into the future” embodies the idea that, through innovations and a commitment to addressing social issues, Panasonic will lead the development of cutting-edge solutions to help achieve its core mission to inspire a healthy society and enrich the lives of people around the world. 
    “This year’s theme is a reference to Panasonic founder Konosuke Matsushita’s vision of contributing to the well-being of people and the progress of society,” said Mike King, Director, Brand Marketing & Creative Services, Marketing & Communications, Panasonic Operational Excellence of North America. “And you can see that theme throughout the exhibit—with technologies that support the well-being of individuals, of families and all of society, with our focus on green energy transformation and decarbonization, but also the use of AI-powered solutions to help families to experience greater connection, connectivity, comfort, and well-being.”

    [embedded content]

    Located in Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC)’s Central Hall, the exhibition space was an enclosed environment divided into four areas: Panasonic Go, Home, Carbon Neutral, and Circular Economy. The design was a departure from the open layouts of previous years, allowing visitors to experience the complete Panasonic story—from its history and vision for the future to technologies they can use today and solutions that will contribute to a sustainable tomorrow.

    Growth Initiative Links Past and Future under “Panasonic Go”

    Panasonic Go is a global corporate growth initiative that will drive transformation through AI-powered, software-led investments across Panasonic Group and create new experiences for customers and partners.
    This area of the exhibition space welcomed visitors with a look back over the storied history of the Panasonic Group, illustrating historical milestones and introducing home appliances that have enriched lives since the company’s founding in 1918. Moving further into the exhibition space, a video explained Matsushita’s ambitious 10-stage, 250-year plan to contribute to solving social issues and improving people’s lives through technology and the role that Panasonic Go will play in driving the transformation to an AI-powered business model towards the plan’s fifth stage (2032–2056).
    * The name Panasonic Go was also inspired by the Japanese word for “five”
    Panasonic Group products have already changed the lives of more than one billion people. Looking ahead, the Group will leverage AI and data platforms—from Blue Yonder’s supply chain management solutions to Panasonic Well’s family wellness platform—to make new contributions for current and future generations.  
    Speaking of wellness, the final section of the Panasonic Go area gave visitors a chance to get a sneak peek of Umi, a new consumer offering from the Panasonic Well portfolio that will be available in the United States market in 2025. Umi is an innovative digital wellness platform and personalized family wellness coach that uses AI and a community of experts to help people build healthy habits and routines. Umi will be the first Panasonic Well consumer brand to use Claude, Anthropic’s AI assistant known for its reasoning capabilities, deep understanding of complex topics, and ability to engage in natural conversations. Claude excels at analyzing data, writing and editing content, and helping solve complex problems—all while maintaining the highest standards of safety and security.

    Carbon Neutral & Circular Economy Exhibits Highlight Sustainability Efforts

    Panasonic HD took the stage at CES 2022 to announce its long-term environmental vision, Panasonic GREEN IMPACT (PGI), and since then the Group has been engaged in a variety of activities to expand its impact toward achieving carbon neutrality and a circular economy. These areas in the exhibition space, Carbon Neutral and Circular Economy, introduced solutions and technologies that will be contributing to achieving the goals established under PGI.

    Visitors also had the opportunity to learn more about how the Panasonic Group is tackling Carbon Neutral challenges and promoting Circular Economy initiatives in its products and solutions as it advances toward the broader goal of contributing to realizing sustainable lifestyles and society. 
    The Carbon Neutral display was organized into three main technologies/approaches: “Updating,” “Electrifying,” and “Harnessing.”
    “Updating” means replacing existing methods with low environmental impact alternatives to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Hussmann display cases for refrigerated and frozen goods use natural refrigerant R290 to greatly reduce environmental impact compared to traditional CFC refrigerant alternatives currently in use.
    “Electrifying” represents the transition from fossil fuels to electric power and making the most of renewable energy. Panasonic Group is a leader in automotive battery cells, having delivered more than 15 billion units to date—enough to power three million EVs worldwide. Visitors were able to check out the Panasonic 2170 cell, which features the world’s highest energy density, as well as the new Panasonic 4680 cell, which has a capacity around five times greater than the 2170 cell. The company’s efforts with Redwood Materials, Inc. and Nouveau Monde Graphite, Inc. to reduce its carbon footprint and achieve a sustainable society were also available for visitors to explore. Finally, they could learn more about Panasonic HX, an advanced energy management system that coordinates pure hydrogen fuel cells, solar cells, and storage batteries to efficiently supply renewable energy in response to changes in electricity demand and weather conditions.
    “Harnessing” is an approach that uses natural resources to produce cleaner resources, leading to CO2 reduction and absorption. One technology aiding the approach is the anion exchange membrane water electrolysis, a device enabling highly efficient and low-cost green hydrogen production. A fully developed anion exchange membrane (AEM) electrode made of iron and nickel was on display in the area. Visitors could also see a life-size mockup of window-mounted perovskite solar cells which demonstrated the transparency and design flexibility of this unique power-generating technology. Also on display was the growth stimulant Novitek®, a technology that uses ambient CO2 in combination with cyanobacteria, a type of photosynthetic microorganism, to increase food productivity.

    The Panasonic Group is committed to the Circular Economy under the three principles of “Maximizing,” “Minimizing,” and “Partnering.” In this area, the Group introduced its efforts to efficiently use resources and reduce consumption of the Earth’s limited natural resources.
    Extending the effective use period while maintaining and improving the value of resources across a product’s lifecycle is known as “Maximizing.” Panasonic displayed a concept model based on the principle of Design for Circular Economy (DfCE); DfCE products are easy to assemble/disassemble (ease of repair), have fewer connectors/fasteners (ease of assembly), and can be grouped for reuse and recycling (ease of recycling).
    “Minimizing” means using fewer new materials and more recycled and renewable materials. For example, approximately 45 percent of the plastic used in the Technics EAH-AZ80 earphones and charging case is made of plant-derived DURABIO , while the Lamdash Palm In ES-PV6A shaver uses NAGORI®, an innovative composite material derived from minerals extracted from seawater, reducing plastic use by approximately 40%1. A second exhibit showcased lighting that incorporates kinari , a sustainable material composed primarily of plant fibers that offers the moldability of conventional petroleum-based resins.
    Designing products and systems for a circular economy is a challenge that Panasonic Group cannot tackle alone, so it emphasizes “Partnering” with customers and partners promote a new style of recycling-oriented management, information sharing, and product use. One outcome of these collaborative efforts is Tracephere , a traceability solution for product recycling and recycled resource processes based on blockchain technology.

    OASYS and Home Appliances Supporting People’s Health, Comfort, and Safety

    The center of the space introduced the Group’s next generation of residential solutions for comfortable, healthy, economical, sustainable, and secure living. Grabbing center stage was the new OASYS solution—a residential central air conditioning system being introduced in the U.S. market that uses a combination of existing products to heat, cool, and ventilate the home while reducing energy consumption by over 50% compared to conventional systems in the U.S.2 In addition to maximizing air volume while minimizing temperature differences and noise, OASYS paves the way for homes powered by 100 percent renewable energy based on high-efficiency water heaters and a lifestyle-adaptive home energy management system.
    Complementing OASYS were displays for home appliances that enrich people’s lives. These included the Technics EAH-AZ100 true wireless earbuds, the Panasonic TV lineup, SoundSlayer Wireless Wearable Gaming Speaker System SC-GNW10, CV88QS multi-oven, LUMIX Full Frame and Micro Four Thirds cameras and lenses, ARC5 PALM-sized 5-Blade Electric Luxury Razor, Panasonic MultiShape, and nanoe hair dryers.

    New Technologies Strengthen Commitment to a Better Tomorrow

    “Our hope is that people will understand that Panasonic’s commitment has not changed in over 100 years—it has always been about making people’s lives better and making the world a better place. The only difference is that today we are doing it with new technologies like AI and software,” said King. “From the individual to all of society, our hope is that people understand our commitment to helping people live healthier, happier lives.”
    King continued: “We hope that people were surprised and excited about some of the new technologies that Panasonic is introducing. A lot of people are concerned about the environment, and we remain committed to sustainability, to green energy transformation, and to new initiatives that will be important for the health of the planet overall.” 

    [embedded content]

    1: Compared to Lamdash PRO 5-blade ES-LV9W released in 2023
    2: Conventional home air conditioning system using a heat pump cooling system (14.2 SEER2) and gas furnace (80% AFUE) compliant with IECC 2015; OASYS system using Panasonic Mini Split AC and transfer fans for both cooling and heating functions in houses compliant with OASYS-required specifications. (Estimate based on the conversion of gas energy consumption to electricity)

    Related Articles

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Panasonic AV-HSW10 Compact Live Switcher’s Firmware Release to Add NDI(R) High Bandwidth Mode

    Source: Panasonic

    Headline: Panasonic AV-HSW10 Compact Live Switcher’s Firmware Release to Add NDI(R) High Bandwidth Mode

    Osaka, Japan – January 29, 2025 – Panasonic Entertainment & Communication today announced an upcoming new firmware, V3.0 for its AV-HSW10 compact live switcher, which will add new features such as NDI® High Bandwidth capability for more flexible operation to meet the needs of a wider range of production sites and systems, scheduled for release in January 2025. Also, a new firmware, V1.7 for the Panasonic AV-UHS500 live switcher will be released simultaneously. Both updates will enable Panasonic’s live switchers to offer increased flexibility in response to the growing demand for video production and distribution in live entertainment, seminars, events, and more.
    Note: For the latest information on firmware availability, please refer to the website shown below.

    ●AV-HSW10 Firmware Upgrade

    1. New NDI® High Bandwidth mode (NDI HB mode) for enhanced I/O flexibility

    In addition to Normal mode, which combines various IP inputs and outputs, the new firmware will add NDI® High Bandwidth mode.*1 This mode will provide four respective inputs, doubling existing capacity, and one output. When combined with Panasonic’s NDI®certified PTZ cameras and other compatible devices, NDI® High Bandwidth mode will simplify the operation of NDI®centric systems. Existing baseband inputs and outputs will remain available for seamless use in hybrid baseband- and IP-based video production and distribution environments, as before.

    Pre-update (current) I/O

    Video input

    3G-SDI

    4 / 3

    HDMI

    1 / 2

    NDI® High Bandwidth

    2 (α ch. Support)

    SRT

    2

    NDI® HX1/NDI® HX2

    Video output

    3G-SDI

    2

    HDMI

    1

    NDI® High Bandwidth

    2

    SRT

    RTMP

    UVC

    1

    Post-update I/O

    Modes

    Normal

    NDI® High Bandwidth

    Video input

    3G-SDI

    4 / 3

    4/ 3

    HDMI

    1 / 2

    1 / 2

    NDI® High Bandwidth

    2 (α ch. Support)

    4 (α ch. Support)

    SRT

    2

    –

    NDI® HX1/NDI® HX2

    Video output

    3G-SDI

    2

    2

    HDMI

    1

    1

    NDI® High Bandwidth

    2

    1

    SRT

    –

    RTMP/RTMPS

    UVC

    1

    1

    *1: Firmware for each mode must be selected and rewritten using a USB memory device. Switching from Normal to NDI HB mode will require a firmware rewrite and device reboot each time.

    2. Improved Operational Convenience with Function Updates

    Audio Input Selection Mode: Any audio can be assigned to video input. In addition, audio multiplex input can be toggled on/off when KEY is activated.
    Enhanced Video Compatibility: Supports 1080i with NDI® High Bandwidth, USB output for 1080i system format (conversion to 1080p for UVC output), and RTMPS.
    Improved Compatibility with Panasonic PTZ Cameras: Enables tally linking with Panasonic AW-UE30W/K PTZ camera and AW-UE150AW/K PTZ camera, and yellow tally with certain other Panasonic PTZ cameras.

    ●AV-UHS500 Firmware Upgrade

    The upcoming firmware upgrade for the AV-UHS500 will enhance the functionality and convenience, both within systems and when integrating the camera with other Panasonic products.

    1. Compatibility with Panasonic Media Production Suite Software

    In the Media Production Suite, Device View will display devices in a list and allow IP address to be configured.

    2. Other Updates

    The AV-UHS500 will newly offer additional Audio Input selections and enhanced compatibility with Panasonic PTZ cameras.

    To complement the company’s comprehensive video production ecosystem, including cameras and software, Panasonic continuously upgrades its AV-HSW10 compact live switcher and AV-UHS500 live switcher in response to user feedback, including for increased hardware stability and software expandability, striving to offer diverse content creators and other users enhanced video production capability.
    For more details on these products:AV-HSW10: https://pro-av.panasonic.net/en/products/av-hsw10/AV-UHS500: https://pro-av.panasonic.net/en/products/av-uhs500/
    Firmware download site:https://eww.pass.panasonic.co.jp/p2ui/guest/TopLogin.do?lang=en&category=pav
    Note: Firmware specifications, etc. subject to change without notice
    Broadcast and Professional Video Systems Global Webpagehttps://pro-av.panasonic.net/en/

    Media Contact:

    For more information about this topic, please contactpro-av.ad@gg.jp.panasonic.com

    About Panasonic Entertainment & Communication Co., Ltd.
    Panasonic Entertainment & Communication Co., Ltd. established in April 2022 as part of the Panasonic Group’s switch to an operating company system, is strengthening the bonds among people and enriching our customers’ lives by providing consumer electronics, including AVC products such as OLED TVs, Lumix digital cameras, headphones, phones, intercoms, and more, as well as business products and solutions including for broadcast, professional AV, and sound systems globally. Our mission is to offer people new emotion and relaxation through our entertainment and communication solutions. To fulfill this mission, we strive to act with professionalism to continuously recreate the future by connecting people. For more details, please visit https://www.panasonic.com/global/peac.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-Evening Report: DeepSeek’s success challenges assumptions about Chinese tech companies – and the US-China competition

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Wanning Sun, Professor of Media and Cultural Studies, University of Technology Sydney

    The release of the new DeepSeek-R1 artificial intelligence (AI) model has shocked the tech world.

    Launched on January 20 with little fanfare, the Chinese AI model was reportedly developed at only a fraction of the cost of OpenAI’s GPT-4o, and over a much shorter period of time. One Chinese commentator has called its release a “Pearl Harbor attack” on the AI world.

    Though the reference to an “attack” may be a strong word, it alludes to the growing competition between the United States and China over dominance in the AI sphere, which the US had been leading thus far.

    Indeed, people across China were celebrating a homegrown success story on Wednesday, as DeepSeek’s AI app soared to the top of the Apple and Google stores in the US.

    So, what does the emergence of DeepSeek’s model say about US-China competition in this space?

    Chinese government control

    First, DeepSeek’s success is undoubtedly sending a message to the Chinese government that excessive control kills innovation.

    Until mid-2023, enthusiasm for innovation in China’s tech companies had been stifled by increasingly restrictive regulations. The Chinese government had embarked on a sweeping crackdown of tech companies like Alibaba and others in order to prevent the spread of rampant entrepreneurial capitalism in China.

    The launch of ChatGPT in 2023 promised to open up exciting new frontiers for the development of AI in the West. But it must have come as a rude shock to China’s tech companies. The Chinese government changed tact and reassured them that it recognised the crucial role of the digital economy as a key driver of economic growth. It soon began to relax its tight grip over the sector.

    But the elephant in the room is how DeepSeek – and China’s AI companies in general – will deal with censorship.

    As it stands, politically sensitive words and questions seem to be no-go areas for DeepSeek. When asked what happened on June 4 1989 in Tiananmen Square (the site of the government’s crackdown on democracy protesters), the chatbot’s answer was along the lines of, “Sorry, that’s beyond my current scope. Let’s talk about something else.”

    This raises the question: can a Chinese AI tool be truly competitive in the global tech race without a solution to the challenge of censorship?

    US efforts to contain Chinese tech development

    Meanwhile, the US has adopted a wide array of measures aiming at curbing China’s AI development over the past few years. These included the Biden administration’s attempts to restrict China’s access to the advanced chips needed for AI, as well as the export of chip-making equipment and other technology to China.

    The US has also blacklisted a large number of Chinese entities that it has identified as having both military and commercial technology.

    The launch of DeepSeek raises questions over the effectiveness of these US attempts to “de-risk” from China in relation to scientific and academic collaboration.

    For one, DeepSeek was able to evade US restrictions on advanced chips by stockpiling downgraded chips made by Nvidia before the Biden administration moved to ban them.

    Western observers have often portrayed China’s AI initiatives as limited due to these US controls. However, these observers have somehow failed to take seriously the emergence of a new generation of Chinese entrepreneurs who prioritise foundational research and long-term technological advancement over quick profits.

    DeepSeek is a good example of this approach. It has embraced open-source methods, pooling collective expertise and fostering collaborative innovation. This approach not only mitigates resource constraints, but also accelerates the development of cutting-edge technologies.

    Another common assumption in the West is that Chinese companies are mere followers or imitators. DeepSeek’s achievements likewise challenge this perception. As the company’s chief executive, Liang Wenfeng, said to one Chinese media outlet:

    Innovation such as ours happens all the time in the US. The Americans are surprised by us, mainly because we are a Chinese company, and we are entering their game as an innovator with original contribution, not as followers.

    DeepSeek’s success also calls into question the legislation supported by both the Biden and Trump administrations that aims to prevent Chinese graduate students from attending universities in the US.

    The assumption behind what researchers call “STEM talent de-coupling” is that the Chinese government may use some of these students to engage in knowledge and technology transfer when they return to China.

    Liang, however, never studied outside China. And he recruited graduates and students from top Chinese universities to staff his research team. None studied overseas.

    These developers belong to a generation of young, patriotic Chinese who harbour personal ambition, as well as a broader commitment to advancing China’s position as a global innovation leader.

    What does this mean for Australia?

    In Australia, the initial reaction to DeepSeek’s AI chatbot has been one of
    caution, even concern. Clare O’Neil, the former cyber security minister, said the government would examine more closely how the app works before providing guidance to Australians on potential data security concerns.

    But DeepSeek may also be a reminder that Australia’s scientific collaborations should be guided primarily by research excellence rather than geopolitical considerations. To stay competitive and reduce its reliance on external technology providers, Australia needs to invest in its own AI research infrastructure and build its own talent pool.

    A narrow focus on political alignments and a growing paranoia about partnering with Chinese researchers means that Australia risks missing out on the next wave of breakthrough technologies.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. DeepSeek’s success challenges assumptions about Chinese tech companies – and the US-China competition – https://theconversation.com/deepseeks-success-challenges-assumptions-about-chinese-tech-companies-and-the-us-china-competition-248531

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: After fleeing the Taliban, the Afghan women’s cricket team is finally playing together – in Australia

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Catherine Ordway, Associate Professor Sport Management and Sport Integrity Lead, University of Canberra

    Women cheer and wave the Afghanistan flag during a cricket game in 2023 Vector and photos/Shutterstock

    A Twenty20 cricket contest featuring a women’s team made up of refugees from Afghanistan who now live in Australia may “only” be an exhibition game, but it could be the beginning of something much more.

    On Thursday, an Afghan women’s cricket team will take on a Cricket Without Borders XI at Melbourne’s Junction Oval.

    It is the first time the women will play as a team since migrating to Australia after the Taliban takeover in 2021. The group has since settled in Canberra and Melbourne.

    Regardless of the result, it could be a step towards Afghanistan’s women’s team entering international cricket.

    Before I explain why, though, it’s important to rewind a bit.

    International cricket and Afghanistan

    The International Cricket Council (ICC) claims it has “one of the toughest” policies on anti-discrimination in world sport.

    The governing body commits to:

    promote and encourage participation at all levels regardless of race, colour, religion, descent, culture, ethnic origin, nationality, sex, gender, sexual orientation, disability, marital status and/or maternity status and to ensure that there is no discrimination in the sport.

    In the case of its member federation, the Afghanistan Cricket Board, the ICC’s refusal to uphold its own policy is providing both actual and implied support to the Taliban’s gender apartheid regime.

    The ICC admitted Afghanistan as a full voting member in 2017, despite being “the only full member to have received that status without having an operational women’s team in place.”

    As a full member, Afghanistan was, according to the ICC’s funds disbursement model: “expected to get around $US40 million ($A64 million) for the 2016-23 commercial rights cycle based on projected ICC revenues of $US2.7 billion ($A4.32 billion).”

    Meanwhile, the other ICC, the International Criminal Court, recently issued arrest warrants against two of the Taliban leaders for crimes against women.

    The Taliban’s policies against women go far beyond sport and make it more reason for the International Cricket Council to act.

    On any reading, the ICC’s membership rules on governance ethics requirements in relation to Afghanistan are in breach.

    From Afghanistan to Australia

    Ironically, it was the Afghanistan Cricket Board’s reluctant and token measure taken to build a women’s team, by issuing contracts to 25 women in 2020, that has allowed them to now play cricket in Australia.

    In August 2021, the Taliban took over Afghanistan and banned women’s sports. Athletes were intimidated, harassed and warned of ramifications if they continued playing.

    That situation sparked action from a handful of passionate volunteers, including myself, ex-Australian cricketer Mel Jones, and Emma Staples (formerly the head of diversity and community engagement at Cricket Victoria). We knew we needed to get these women out of Afghanistan.

    We applied to the Australian government to issue emergency humanitarian visas to the contracted women’s cricketers, with the applications granted.

    Now, all they want is a chance to represent their country as a team, and to send a message of hope back to their sisters suffering under the oppression of Afghan gender apartheid.

    Put simply, the Afghan women’s team is desperate to be given the same opportunities as its male counterparts.

    The team has written several times and asked for meetings with the ICC, to no avail.

    The ICC instead has set up an all-male working group on Afghanistan.

    It’s not clear what its terms of reference are, or if they have even met.

    Possible solutions

    Cricket Australia has chosen not to play bilateral matches against Afghanistan, citing the Taliban’s human rights restrictions for women and girls since returning to power.

    But boycotts often impact athletes more than government policies.

    Instead, the focus should be on supporting Afghan women who want to play cricket. The ICC could implement targeted actions including:

    • replacing Afghanistan’s cricket board with ICC-appointed administrators, including women
    • adjusting Afghanistan’s funding to reflect they are only developing cricket for less than half the population
    • setting up a global development fund for Afghan girls and women to identify talent and to provide coaching.

    There are several international sport models – for example, FIFA’s Normalisation Committees and the IOC’s independence requirements – that could serve as models for the ICC requiring Afghanistan’s Cricket Board to comply with the its anti-discrimination policies.

    A chance to compete

    On Thursday, these Afghan women finally get to play as a team, in the exhibition game organised by Cricket Australia.

    The team is keen for this to be an ongoing opportunity to develop skills and represent their nation, not just a one-time event.

    The Olympic movement’s model of refugee teams could inspire the creation of a refugee team for Afghan women in cricket, allowing them to participate in future youth and summer Olympic Games and other competitions.

    Catherine Ordway voluntarily represented the Afghan women’s cricket team to evacuate them to Australia following the Taliban re-occupation in August 2021, and continues to provide ongoing support to the women, the staff and their families.

    – ref. After fleeing the Taliban, the Afghan women’s cricket team is finally playing together – in Australia – https://theconversation.com/after-fleeing-the-taliban-the-afghan-womens-cricket-team-is-finally-playing-together-in-australia-248445

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy: Donald Trump Is Throwing Law And Order Out The Window

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy
    [embedded content]
    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Tuesday spoke on the U.S. Senate floor to condemn President Trump’s recent actions—including pardoning violent January 6th rioters and announcing a sweeping freeze on federal grants and loans—as a direct threat to democracy and public safety. Murphy warned these moves send a dangerous signal that political violence will be excused if it serves Trump’s interests, undermining the rule of law and putting the country’s democratic institutions at risk.
    “Today you are fundamentally less likely to be attacked, to be murdered, by a neighbor, by somebody that you have a contest with, than you were centuries ago. Donald Trump is throwing that out the window,” said Murphy. “Donald Trump is throwing out the window the idea that we only advance ourselves politically or economically or socially through nonviolent means. Because what happened last week is that Donald Trump said to this country, ‘If you use violence on my behalf, you’re off the hook. If you beat the hell out of police officers, if you pound them over the head with metal poles, if you yank them by the neck and drag them into a crowd, hold them down so that people can stomp on them, if you taser police officers to the point that they suffer a heart attack, as long as you are doing that to advance my political power, you’re off the hook.’”
    Murphy slammed Trump’s illegal freeze on federal grants and loans as a corrupt attack on American democracy: “What happened last night is part of a story. The president can’t be the only person in charge of who gets money or not in this country. That’s corrupt because then the president can dole out money to his political friends or the friends of his billionaire friends, can dole out money to states with senators that are loyal to him and can punish companies that are competitors with his billionaire friends or punish states represented by people who are disloyal to him. That’s not how our democracy works. We’re in charge of making sure that taxpayer money is spread out evenly, that it has nothing to do with loyalty or disloyalty to the leader.” 
    He continued: “A couple of days ago, all the inspectors general got fired. That’s illegal, but they all got fired. Why? Because if you’re going to engage in corruption inside these agencies, you don’t want anybody to be watching. And so you’ve got to put this next to each other. You’ve got to understand the story. If you’re trying to transition our democracy to a government in which only one person is in charge, you permit people to engage in violence on your behalf so as to intimidate the opposition into being silent, and I’m just going to tell you, if you don’t believe this, there are a lot of folks who don’t support Donald Trump who are not going to show up to rallies, who are not going to participate in politics because they just learned that if they do and somebody hurts them, that person might be let off the hook. You excuse violence, you arrange government so that you can operate in darkness, and you rig the rules so that nobody is in charge of dispensing money except for you. Violence is a legitimate tool of politics. One person in charge of doling out money. Government decisions made in secret. That’s not a democracy. That is a recipe for corruption.”
    Murphy concluded: “And so, yes, I am fuming mad about how my Republican colleagues talk about law and order and then mostly, with a few exceptions, either remain silent when the most violent January 6 protesters get pardoned or celebrate those pardons. But I also want to be clear that it stands in a context, a context of actions taken during this first week, that are undermining our democracy to the point of putting it on the brink of possible extinction as a means for fundamental corruption to take place inside our government. That should be unacceptable. That is unacceptable. And I’m thankful to Senator Murray and others for bringing us down to the floor to raise this alarm bell. I yield the floor.”
    A full transcript of his remarks can be found below:
    MURPHY: “Thank you Mr. President. You know, the murder rate in the United States, the global murder rate, today, is infinitesimal; a fraction of what it was 200 years ago, 400 years ago, 600 years ago; a fraction of what it likely was in the bronze age or in the days when native tribes patrolled this land. What we’ve seen over the course of global history is that human beings have decided that instead of advancing our social power or our economic power or our political power through violence, instead we are going to have law and order. We’re going to have economies that reward merit. We’re going to punish people who disobey those laws to protect the rest of us.
    “And that served us really, really well. Today you are fundamentally less likely to be attacked, to be murdered, by a neighbor, by somebody that you have a contest with, than you were centuries ago. Donald Trump is throwing that out the window. Donald Trump is throwing out the window the idea that we only advance ourselves politically or economically or socially through nonviolent means. Because what happened last week is that Donald Trump said to this country, ‘If you use violence on my behalf, you’re off the hook. If you beat the hell out of police officers, if you pound them over the head with metal poles, if you yank them by the neck and drag them into a crowd, hold them down so that people can stomp on them, if you taser police officers to the point that they suffer a heart attack, as long as you are doing that to advance my political power, you’re off the hook.’
    “The people that walked out of jail last week were convicted of viciously violent crimes. And, yes, there were plenty of people who were convicted who didn’t engage in that horrific violence, but I was here in this chamber that day. I remember all of my Republican colleagues running out the door just like Democrats did. I don’t remember any of my Republican colleagues staying in the chamber to greet the tourists. Everybody knew that our safety was in jeopardy. Democrats certainly knew our safety was in jeopardy because as we found out, many of those protesters were looking for Democrats. One of the most violent protesters who was let out of jail last week in the middle of his sentence, after he had beaten up police officers, went to the gallows, went to the noose that was constructed, and posted on social media, “Too bad no Democrats here.’
    “If you beat up a police officer for reasons other than perpetuating Donald Trump’s power, you’re still in jail. The only people who beat up police officers in the year 2021 that got let out of jail last week—the only ones—were the ones that beat up police officers to help Donald Trump. That sends a clear signal: that your violence is excused if it’s for Donald Trump’s political purposes. And that puts all of our lives in jeopardy. That puts our democracy in jeopardy, when violence is excused.
    “What we are learning in the days following that unconscionable executive order, pardoning the rioters— not some of the rioters, everybody— is that it’s part of a plan. Listen, I have done a lot of work across the aisle. I have such respect for my Republican colleagues. I spent hours, weeks, days sitting in rooms negotiating immigration bills and voting bills and public safety bills. But, man, you are watching this president try to seize power right now, try to make us irrelevant, try to suppress political dissent.
    “What happened last night is part of a story. The president can’t be the only person in charge of who gets money or not in this country. That’s corrupt because then the president can dole out money to his political friends or the friends of his billionaire friends, can dole out money to states with senators that are loyal to him and can punish companies that are competitors with his billionaire friends or punish states represented by people who are disloyal to him. 
    “That’s not how our democracy works. We’re in charge of making sure that taxpayer money is spread out evenly, that it has nothing to do with loyalty or disloyalty to the leader. A couple of days ago, all the inspectors general got fired. That’s illegal, but they all got fired. Why? Because if you’re going to engage in corruption inside these agencies, you don’t want anybody to be watching. And so you’ve got to put this next to each other. You’ve got to understand the story. If you’re trying to transition our democracy to a government in which only one person is in charge, you permit people to engage in violence on your behalf so as to intimidate the opposition into being silent, and I’m just going to tell you, if you don’t believe this, there are a lot of folks who don’t support Donald Trump who are not going to show up to rallies, who are not going to participate in politics because they just learned that if they do and somebody hurts them, that person might be let off the hook. 
    “You excuse violence, you arrange government so that you can operate in darkness, and you rig the rules so that nobody is in charge of dispensing money except for you. Violence is a legitimate tool of politics. One person in charge of doling out money. Government decisions made in secret. That’s not a democracy. That is a recipe for corruption. For corruption. 
    “And so, yes, I am fuming mad about how my Republican colleagues talk about law and order and then mostly, with a few exceptions, either remain silent when the most violent January 6 protesters get pardoned or celebrate those pardons. But I also want to be clear that it stands in a context, a context of actions taken during this first week, that are undermining our democracy to the point of putting it on the brink of possible extinction as a means for fundamental corruption to take place inside our government. That should be unacceptable. That is unacceptable. And I’m thankful to Senator Murray and others for bringing us down to the floor to raise this alarm bell. I yield the floor.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The virtual game “Winter in Moscow” now features a symbol of the Chinese New Year

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    In a game with augmented reality “Winter in Moscow”, available in the application of the digital tourist service Russpass, a new cartoon has appeared. The red and gold patterned snake has become the personification of the festival “Chinese New Year in Moscow”. It is the official symbol of 2025, created by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the People’s Republic of China.

    Explore Moscow with your smartphone

    According to the lunar calendar, the Chinese New Year, or the Spring Festival of Chunjie, which signifies the renewal of nature and life’s opportunities, begins on January 29. According to the eastern calendar, 2025 is the year of the Green Wooden Snake, but the emblem was made in festive shades. In Chinese tradition, red (hong) brings good luck and protects from evil spirits, gold (jin) is associated with wealth and prosperity. The snake symbolizes wisdom, mystery and flexibility.

    The patterned snake can be caught at the sites of the festival “Chinese New Year in Moscow” and get the maximum amount of game currency for it – 800 snowflakes. The cartoon is on Tverskaya Square, Novy Arbat, VDNKh, Kamergersky Lane, the amusement park “Dream Island”, the Moscow Zoo and other places.

    Since the start of the augmented reality game “Winter in Moscow” Russpass app downloaded and updated more than 98 thousand times. After registration, users are given a map with cartoons that they need to catch using their smartphone while traveling around the city.

    Muscovites and tourists are catching the characters from the Soyuzmultfilm studio: Matroskin the cat from the animated series Prostokvashino, Gromozeka from The Secret of the Third Planet, Rooster from The Bremen Town Musicians, and hockey players from the Vympel and Meteor teams from Puck! Puck!

    For example, you can get 800 snowflakes for the parrot Kesha, who lives in the Museum of Moscow and the Ostafyevo Museum Estate. For Umka at the Worker and Kolkhoz Woman monument at VDNKh and the Lesnaya Skazka eco-center – 400. For Carlson at the Southern River Terminal and Vnukovo Airport – 200.

    Accumulated snowflakes open up promo codes for participants to exchange for points in the city loyalty program “A Million Prizes”.

    Chinese Lanterns and Dragon Dances

    The capital is once again celebrating the Chinese New Year on a grand scale as part of the cross-cultural years of 2024–2025.

    From January 28 to February 9, you can experience the atmosphere of China without leaving the capital: watch performances of national theaters on Manezhnaya Square and dragon dances on Tverskaya Square, attend a Chinese-style ice party at VDNKh, make paper dragons and master calligraphy on Bolotnaya Square. In addition, you can take many original photos on sites decorated with Chinese lanterns, air dragons, fans and coins.

    The Winter in Moscow project is the main event of the season, which until February 28 brings together various events in the capital. Citizens and tourists are invited to remember traditions and history, warm up with tea and hot buns, go skating, skiing and tubing, watch ice shows, give gifts to people who find themselves in a difficult life situation, and show concern for those who need it.

    Muscovites and guests of the capital are offered a huge selection of events in the open air and in cultural and sports institutions. The atmosphere of winter traditions has engulfed the entire city: more than 1.9 thousand sites are open. The project organically intertwined with the largest festivals of the capital “Moscow Estates”, “Moscow Tea Party”, “City of Light”, “Snow and Ice in Moscow” and many others. All information about the project and the events of the winter season can be found in a special section of mos.ru.

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: What services of the flagship My Documents in the South-East Administrative District are most in demand

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Over the four years of operation, city residents have contacted the flagship office of “My Documents” of the South-Eastern Administrative District more than a million times. It opened in January 2021 on the first floor of the shopping and entertainment center “Gorod” at the address: Ryazansky Prospekt, Building 2, Building 3 and became the fifth flagship in Moscow.

    During this time, the most popular service was the registration of vehicles (TS) and trailers to them – more than 110 thousand requests were recorded. The second most popular service is cadastral registration and (or) registration of rights to real estate objects, more than 70 thousand applications were received for it. The third place in the rating was taken by the service of registration of citizens of the Russian Federation – over 60 thousand requests.

    The flagship offices of My Documents offer unique services that are not available in district centers, such as out-of-court bankruptcy. Young Muscovites can receive their first passport in a ceremonial setting, and Moscow entrepreneurs can use the services of the state budgetary institution Small Business of Moscow, as well as register a legal entity, a peasant (farming) enterprise, and the status of an individual entrepreneur. City residents also have access to vehicle registration services, making changes to registration data, or deregistering a vehicle. This can be done conveniently by prior appointment on the portal Mos.ru or Internet portal of public services.

    At the flagship of the South-Eastern Administrative District, Muscovites can apply for a foreign passport for children under 14 years of age, submit a birth certificate or marriage registration certificate, extracts from the register of legal entities and other documents for legalization, and also enter information about foreign certificates of registration of civil status acts into the Unified State Register of Civil Registry Offices within 24 hours.

    In addition, residents of the capital are provided with two of the most popular services of the guardianship service, related to the issuance of permission for transactions with property and the management of money in the accounts of minors, incapacitated or partially incapacitated citizens.

    On the territory of the flagship office of the South-East Administrative District, newlyweds can register their marriage in a separate hall equipped with a bright photo zone.

    Muscovites are also offered additional services, such as booking a tour in the “My Travels” zone, visiting the “My Photo” photo studio, or visiting the “Moscow – Caring for History” exhibition. The current exhibition is dedicated to the dynasties of Moscow confectioners. In addition, the flagship has a “My Notary” legal bureau, which has become the most popular additional service. Over four years, residents have contacted this bureau more than 40 thousand times.

    The flagship centers are equipped with everything necessary for the convenience and comfort of visitors and are decorated in a modern design. There are spacious waiting areas with soft sofas, USB ports for charging phones and portable lamps, a large children’s area with interactive games and modern cartoons, a mother and child room. You can also charge your mobile device using a portable power bank. All My Documents flagship offices host exhibitions about outstanding cultural figures. The current exhibition is dedicated to Arkady Gaidar.

    The flagship office of “My Documents” in the South-East Administrative District is open daily from 10:00 to 22:00.

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: The Moskino Cinema Park has shown the play “Cathedral Square” 30 times

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The play “Cathedral Square” in the Moskino cinema park continues to arouse the interest of both residents of the capital and guests of the city. After the premiere, viewers quickly bought up tickets and did not stop leaving enthusiastic reviews. It is planned to hold another 16 shows of the multimedia play about the Time of Troubles. The opportunity to see the spectacular performance is available until February 23 inclusive.

    In each performance, one of the famous actors plays alongside the young artists. Thus, on stage you can see Anna Bolshova, Elena Zakharova, Ekaterina Guseva, Dmitry Pevtsov, Gleb Puskepalis, Yulia Takshina, Evklid Kurdzidis, Valentin Klementyev, Valery Nikolaev, Eduard Flerov and others.

    From the first minutes of the production, the audience finds itself in Russia in the 17th century. They observe the insidious plans of the Polish King and Grand Duke of Lithuania Sigismund III, the impostor False Dmitry II and Marina Mnishek, who are striving for power. The main themes of the play are the cohesion of the Russian people, the unity of the Orthodox faith and the strength of spirit.

    “There were traitors in power, there were traitors among the Cossacks, clans fought, princes could not agree with each other. But it was the spiritual power and the common people that did not allow Russia to perish,” emphasized the play’s director Eduard Boyakov.

    Thanks to the historical scenery, the creative goals of the director and his large professional team were brought to life.

    “The play is a reflection on the fact that our strength is in unity and truth. It is the appeal to Russian roots and origins that makes it so understandable and relevant for every viewer. The heroes of the play – Minin and Pozharsky – become living examples of unwavering faith and willpower for the viewer,” shared actress Anna Bolshova.

    The performance lasts one hour and is intended for viewers over six years of age.

    Tickets are available for purchase by link.

    The Moskino Cinema Park is part of Sergei Sobyanin’s Moscow — City of Cinema project and an object of the Moscow film cluster. The first stage of its development has already been completed: 18 natural sites, four pavilions and six infrastructure facilities have been built here. Among them are the sets of Moscow Center, Moscow of the 1940s, Vitebsk Station, Yurovo Airport, Moscow Cathedral Square, Deaf Village, Partisan Village, County Town, Cowboy Town, St. Petersburg Bar and other sites.

    The Moscow Film Cluster is an infrastructure facility, services and facilities for filmmakers, which are being developed by the Moscow Government within the framework of the Moscow — City of Cinema project. Its structure includes the Moskino film park, the Gorky Film Studio (sites on Sergei Eisenstein Street and Valdaisky Proyezd), the Moskino film factory, the Moskino cinema chain, the film commission and the Moskino film platform.

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Glavarkhiv published rare documents for the 165th anniversary of Anton Chekhov’s birth

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    To mark the 165th anniversary of Anton Chekhov’s birth, Glavarkhiv opened a new online exhibition, “I’ll Fly to Moscow on Wings…”. Its materials introduce the writer’s life and work in the city. Here Chekhov spent his student years, began his literary work and became famous as a playwright. The exhibition can be viewed in the “Media Library” section, in the subsection “Exhibitions”.

    The exhibition includes photographs of Chekhov and his family, documents about the writer’s studies at the Imperial Moscow University (now Moscow State University), records in the register of marriage of Anton Chekhov and Olga Knipper in 1901, as well as the writer’s death in 1904, and other materials. One of the sections of the exhibition tells about the perpetuation of the memory of Anton Chekhov – the creation of a memorial house-museum of the writer on Sadovaya-Kudrinskaya Street and the holding of events in honor of the celebration of his anniversaries.

    Anton Chekhov first visited Moscow in 1877, when he was 17 years old. Two years later, he entered the medical faculty of the Imperial Moscow University and became one of 10 scholarship holders of the Taganrog City Duma, which allocated funds for the education of city natives in higher educational institutions. At the exhibition, you can see a document on the release of the bearer of a coupon for an assignment of 25 rubles, delivered from the Taganrog City Council, on which Anton Chekhov signed. In 1884, he completed his studies at the university. The document on conferring the title of district doctor on students, among whom Chekhov is also mentioned, was signed by the dean of the medical faculty, Nikolai Sklifosovsky.

    A separate section of the exhibition is devoted to Anton Chekhov’s collaboration with the Moscow Art Theatre (MKhT). Documents and photographs make it possible to trace the history of productions of plays based on the playwright’s plays and see the actors who participated in them. The exhibition presents theatre posters, programmes and tickets for MKhT performances, as well as the memories of spectators who saw the productions in 1899–1900.

    Due to his health, the writer was forced to leave Moscow and settle in Yalta. In the summer of 1904, due to a sharp exacerbation of his illness, Anton Chekhov and his wife Olga Knipper-Chekhova went to a resort in Germany. On July 15, he died in the town of Badenweiler. The writer was buried in Moscow at the Novodevichy Convent Cemetery.

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: How Technopolis Moscow SEZ Enterprises Support People in the SVO Zone

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Students and staff of the National Research University of Electronic Technology (MIET), the flagship university of the Technopolis Moscow special economic zone (SEZ), collected more than 150 kilograms of humanitarian aid for the participants of the special military operation (SMO).

    “The enterprises of the Technopolis Moscow special economic zone actively participate in humanitarian actions. Assistance and support are provided not only to participants in the special military operation and residents of border regions, but also to children’s shelters and centers for keeping homeless animals. Another action to collect humanitarian aid was held at the National Research University of Electronic Technology. In two weeks, employees and students collected 150 kilograms of warm clothes, various household chemicals and special equipment, which have already been transferred to the front lines,” said Gennady Degtyarev, CEO of the SEZ.

    The university staff and students collected sets of thermal underwear, tools, catalytic heaters, fleece clothing and much more. The students wove camouflage nets, which are so necessary for the fighters, themselves. This is not the first such action of the university – in August 2024, the institution’s employees handed over 250 kilograms of humanitarian aid to residents of the Kursk region, and in September they collected things for residents of the Donetsk and Lugansk People’s Republics.

    Collections of humanitarian aid for residents of border regions were held at the sites of the special economic zone “Technopolis Moscow”. Employees of the management company and workers of over 50 enterprises brought more than 2.5 tons of various products.

    Other capital enterprises also provide support to the SVO participants and residents of border territories. For example, a manufacturer of ATMs and other high-tech products donated a number of devices it made to help the military. Among them are metal storage boxes, entrenching hooks, heating stoves, and transport equipment.

    The capital’s coffee and sweets factory has shipped more than one ton of its products since 2022. In addition, the company delivered 4.5 thousand coffee bean bags to the special military operation zone, which are used by military personnel to equip flooring.

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: “Chinese New Year”: what awaits guests of “Winter in Moscow” on Tverskoy Boulevard

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The Chinese New Year festival, which is taking place in the capital from January 28 to February 9 as part of the Winter in Moscow project, awaits guests at the venues on Tverskoy Boulevard. There are two chalets there, where master classes, lectures and creative activities are held under the guidance of experts in Eastern culture, including representatives of China and masters studying centuries-old traditions. Admission to all events is free.

    The festival was a continuation of the events dedicated to the Cross Years of Culture of Russia and China, and is timed to coincide with the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the countries.

    “Russia and China are the largest neighbors, they have been developing friendly and partnership relations for many decades. In order to strengthen mutual understanding between the peoples of our countries, it is necessary to talk about traditions and customs. The festival movement in Moscow unites and brings together the cultures of Russians and Chinese in holidays, games, master classes, theatrical performances,” said Olga Dolgikh, one of the organizers of the master classes within the framework of the festival, a teacher of the Chinese language, director of the Center for International Education and Professional Training.

    Spring Festival in a Chalet at the Monument to K.A. Timiryazev

    In the chalet, located near the monument to K.A. Timiryazev, guests will become acquainted with the world of Chinese art.

    On January 29 from 12:00 to 15:00 there will be a master class on traditional paper cutting – jianzhi. This activity as an element of the spring festival symbolizes happiness and prosperity, and the patterns created become a bright decoration of houses.

    On January 30, from 12:00 to 14:00, participants of the master class will create a composition called “Wild Orchid and Fry”, and from 19:00 to 19:45, they will create a snowflake, which is associated with spring in China.

    On January 31, from 12:00 to 14:00, guests will learn how to depict geranium, a flower that in Chinese art often symbolizes renewal and harmony.

    From 3 to 7 February, from 12:00 to 15:00, the chalet will host painting and calligraphy classes.

    On February 9 at 19:00 there will be a master class on drawing a meihua plum – a spring symbol of resilience, joy and the awakening of nature.

    Calligraphy, woodcut and tea ceremony in a chalet near the monument to S.A. Yesenin

    In the chalet near the monument to S.A. Yesenin, guests will discover Chinese calligraphy, woodcuts and tea drinking traditions.

    From January 29 to 31, from 12:00 to 15:00, calligraphy classes will be held here. Participants will learn how the elegant lines of hieroglyphs reflect the philosophy and aesthetics of China.

    On January 31 from 19:00 to 19:45, guests are invited to a lecture with a demonstration about the clothing of the main nationality of China, the Han. They will also demonstrate the traditional Chinese costume, Hanfu.

    On February 2, from 12:00 to 15:00, there will be a master class on Chinese xylography – printing from wooden boards, the ancient art of creating illustrations.

    On February 3 at 19:00, the chalet will host a master class on creating an image of a meihua plum. Participants will learn to work in the realistic Chinese painting technique of gongbi. It involves precise drawing of details and the use of delicate gradations of colors.

    On February 5 and 6, from 12:00 to 14:00, guests of the chalet will be immersed in the culture of Chinese tea drinking. Participants will learn how this drink became part of the culture of the Celestial Empire, and will also enjoy its taste and aroma.

    Project “Winter in Moscow”— the main event of the season, which until February 28 unites various events of the capital. Citizens and tourists are invited to remember traditions and history, warm up with tea and hot buns, go skating, skiing and tubing, watch ice shows, give gifts to people who find themselves in a difficult life situation, show care for those who need it.

    Muscovites and guests of the capital are offered a huge selection of events in the open air and in cultural and sports institutions. The atmosphere of winter traditions has engulfed the entire city – more than 1.9 thousand sites are open. The project organically intertwined with the largest festivals of the capital “Moscow Estates”, “Moscow Tea Party”, “City of Light”, “Snow and Ice in Moscow” and many others. All information about the project and winter season events can be found in a special section Mos.ru.

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    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/149437073/

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Burning Hearts: Stories of Those Who Received the Moscow Volunteer Badge

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    These people represent different generations: some have recently graduated from school, while others have already retired. But they are united by a common cause – volunteering. They help organize and hold the Victory Parade, are on duty at major events and collect humanitarian aid, and Resource center “Mosvolonter” — preparation and coordination of concerned Muscovites. The unofficial motto of such enthusiasts is “No other way!” On January 21, Sergei Sobyanin presented the “Volunteer of Moscow” badge of distinction 30 residents of the capital.

    About what merits can lead to receiving an honorary award, how kindness leads to the profession of dreams and helps to create a family – in the material mos.ru.

    A smile as a reward

    One of the youngest volunteers to earn the badge was 18-year-old Yuri Potolokov. He studies at the Moscow City Pedagogical University and plans to teach geography in the future. But even after graduating and getting a job, Yuri plans to participate in public events.

    The young man joined the volunteer movement in 2022, while still at school. “One day I went to a concert at VDNKh and saw guys handing out raincoats to the audience because it was raining. That’s when I noticed that people were smiling at the volunteers. And I realized that I wanted to receive such smiles too. After all, this is the best gratitude for your work! After the concert, I told my mother: “I’m going to volunteer!” She happily accepted my choice,” our interlocutor recalls.

    Yuri Potolokov is a graduate of a cadet school and has been interested in Russian history since childhood. That is why patriotic events are closest to him, for example, meeting veterans who came to Moscow from different cities for Victory Day at train stations. However, over the past two years, the young man has had the opportunity to volunteer at other events. For example, he helped participants National Championship “Abilympics”in 2022 and 2023, navigate the site and get to the competitions on time, coordinated guests at the World Youth Festival in 2024. And recently, I sorted out New Year’s decorations at the N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology: I twisted the branches of artificial trees with insulating tape, packed the toys and sent them to the warehouse. Moreover, I was already performing the duties of a team leader, managing a team of five people.

    In total, he has over three thousand volunteer hours to his credit. Nevertheless, the mos.ru interviewee did not expect to be among those awarded.

    “I can imagine how many people applied for the badge! And they chose me. Now I want to try even harder than before. In the near future, I hope to hold a master class on creating eco-paintings from recycled materials in the “Good Place” space in the South-Eastern Administrative District,” says Yuri Potolokov, holder of the “Volunteer of Moscow” badge.

    From the veterans’ meeting to the registry office

    Kirill Kononaev is 21 years old. The volunteer is a final-year student at the Moscow Institute of Economics. He joined the “club of caring people” three years ago: first, he headed the student council, and soon he wanted to do good deeds outside the university. “The opportunity presented itself: the pandemic began, and I went to deliver food to the elderly,” recalls the mos.ru source.

    Then there were other events, for example the International Forum of Civic Participation “Moscow helps”The young man devoted more than 1,700 hours to volunteer work. He personally liked patriotic events.

    “Once I was distributing water in the center of the capital during the Immortal Regiment march. It was an amazing feeling: we were met by participants carrying portraits of their fathers and grandfathers who fought for their country in the Great Patriotic War. And it was in our power to make sure that they did not feel thirsty. Another time I was processing applications for the “Faces of Victory” campaign: relatives sent touching stories about their ancestors, battle heroes,” says Kirill Kononaev, holder of the “Moscow Volunteer” badge.

    At one of these events at the headquarters, organized to meet veterans, our interlocutor met his future wife: Taisiya Borisova, a student at the Moscow State Pedagogical University, also a volunteer. They got married in February 2024 and now come to help together.

    “It was very nice to receive a badge of distinction this year. And although I have less and less free time, I will continue to volunteer. So, soon it will be time to distribute St. George ribbons to Moscow residents. Even when I feel tired, helping people and the city allows me to switch off, charges me with positive energy,” smiles Kirill Kononaev.

    Dream job

    Margarita Buchina teaches English at school #2075In 2018, when the capital hosted the World Cup, her students enthusiastically and delightedly told how they rooted for the teams and interacted with foreign guests on the city streets.

    “I thought it was good language practice and a new experience. And soon I signed up through the website Mosvolonter.ruto her first large-scale event — the Moscow Urban Forum — 2019, where guests from different countries came. She successfully passed the interview and became part of the team of volunteers with knowledge of foreign languages, who help at the information desks,” recalls the mos.ru interlocutor.

    Already at the event, Margarita Buchina realized that applying her knowledge for the benefit of the city is her calling. In addition to her teaching profession, she is also a photographer and journalist. Therefore, she offered her help as a media volunteer.

    “Every year on June 22, I go to the Krymskaya Embankment to collect material for a report on the “Candle of Memory” campaign: I get amazing emotional portraits of volunteers in military uniform from the Great Patriotic War, who came to light the lights in honor of those who died in 1941-1945. I was the manager of the volunteer corps at the International Exhibition and Forum “Russia” at VDNKh and supervised media volunteers, photographed Christmas trees decorated with balls with children’s wishes, as part of the “Kind Christmas Tree” charity campaign at festival venues, photographed artists performing at the International Military Music Festival “Spasskaya Tower”. In addition, I am a volunteer editor of the “Good News” magazine, which tells about the lives of active and caring city residents,” says Margarita Buchina, holder of the “Volunteer of Moscow” badge.

    Now she is trying to find her dream job and realize herself as a journalist. But she does not plan to leave volunteering.

    “When I was awarded the “Moscow Volunteer” badge for my services, I once again realized how important and useful my good deeds are for the city. And you can do them in different ways, for example, by helping to collect humanitarian aid. If you were born with a kind heart, then it is not difficult for you to share kindness with others, volunteering is forever!” our interlocutor believes.

    Six thousand hours of good deeds

    Elena Akhtyrskaia is a “silver” volunteer, she is 56 years old. “In 2015, I began to actively attend excursions organized Department of Cultural Heritage of Moscow. Once I was asked to help a guide gather a group and make sure no one was left behind during a walk around the capital. It turned out to be much more interesting than just listening! So I joined the ranks of cultural volunteers. Now I also help organize events for Mosconcert,” she says.

    During the winter holidays, Elena Akhtyrskaya was on duty at the New Year’s game-journey through Russian fairy tales in the Petrovsky Travel Palace, and after the performance she gave gifts to the young spectators.

    However, our interlocutor participates not only in cultural programs. For example, she had the opportunity to accompany the Victory Parade in 2024. “This is the highest honor for a volunteer!” she admits. Elena Akhtyrskaya met visitors at the entrance to Red Square and explained where to go next, and then seated veterans in the stands and watched the procession from a place of honor.

    “I have dedicated almost six thousand hours to good deeds. But when I was awarded the “Volunteer of Moscow” badge, I was surprised. After all, there are many worthy candidates, including “silver” ones, and they are older than me. Of course, it is very nice to receive such an award. However, something else is more important to me: the emotional response of those whom I helped, eyes full of joy and gratitude!” – summarizes the holder of the “Volunteer of Moscow” badge Elena Akhtyrskaya.

    A Holiday for Everyone: How the Mosconcert Cultural Brigade Congratulated Soldiers and Children on the New Year“Moscow Helps”: Sobyanin Told How Muscovites Support SVO ParticipantsOver a thousand events were held in 2024 in the Dobroe Mesto centers in MoscowThe number of events in Moscow involving cultural heritage volunteers has almost doubledWhat dreams does the “Kind Tree” of the “Winter in Moscow” project fulfill?

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

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

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/149440073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A training center for Russian national football teams will appear in Khoroshevo-Mnevniki

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    A training center for Russian national football teams will be built in the northwest of the capital. The City Committee for Architecture and Urban Development (Moskomarkhitektura) has already amended the land use and development rules for the construction of the sports facility. This was reported by Juliana Knyazhevskaya, chairman of the department.

    Land use and development regulations are a set of rules and requirements that govern how land should be used and what can be built on it. They determine what activities are allowed in certain places and what requirements must be met when designing and constructing buildings.

    “According to the document, a territorial zone has been formed in the northwest of Moscow, where a center with an area of over 32.6 thousand square meters will appear. The site will house a training base for national football teams. Its area will be over 19 thousand square meters. In addition, athletes will have the opportunity to live on the territory of the center during training. The total area of the premises for temporary accommodation will be almost three thousand square meters,” said Yuliana Knyazhevskaya.

    The land plot is located on the bank of the Moskva River on Nizhnie Mnevniki Street – a 10-minute walk from the Terekhovo metro station of the Big Circle Line. The area is currently free of development.

    “The training center for the Russian national football teams will be built in the Mnevnikovskaya floodplain as part of a large-scale investment project. For this purpose, the city will provide the Russian Football Union with a land plot of 6.05 hectares. The contract is planned to be concluded for five years, during which time the construction of the sports complex should be completed,” noted the Minister of the Moscow Government, Head of the Department of City Property

    Maxim Gaman.

    Previously Sergei Sobyanin said on the development of the Mnevnikovskaya floodplain.

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

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

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/149447073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s production of cattle, sheep, poultry remains stable

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    China’s production of cattle, sheep and poultry remained generally stable in 2024, while pig production declined, according to data from the National Bureau of Statistics.

    In 2024, the country’s production of pork, beef, mutton and poultry meat reached 96.63 million tonnes, representing a year-on-year increase of 0.2 percent.

    Specifically, beef output rose 3.5 percent year on year to 7.79 million tonnes last year, while mutton output reached 5.18 million tonnes, down 2.5 percent.

    Poultry meat production increased 3.8 percent year on year, and pork production dipped 1.5 percent. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: SH15 to remain closed overnight

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    |

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) advises State Highway 15 between Maungatapere and Otaika will remain closed overnight as NZ Police investigations into the unexplained death of a motorcyclist continue.

    Detours remain in place via State Highway 14 and State Highway 1 for those traveling between Maungatapere and Otaika. Those traveling from Otaika to Maungatapere should take the same route, in reverse.

    Motorists are asked to drive with care along the detour route, with increased traffic volumes and students having returned to schools in the area this week.

    Locals who need to access their properties along the stretch of State Highway 15 between Maungatapere and Otaika should approach uniformed staff at the cordon.

    The road is expected to remain closed into tomorrow afternoon and people are encouraged to visit the Journey Planner website (journeys.nzta.govt.nz(external link)) for up to date information on the closure and detour route before they travel.

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi thanks everyone for their patience.

    Tags

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Arrest – Historic Child Abuse

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force have arrested a 53-year-old man in relation to historic child abuse offending committed in Western Australia in 2014.

    The man failed to appear in the Perth Magistrates Court in 2018 before travelling to the Northern Territory.

    On 29 January 2025, the Northern Territory Police Sex Crimes Unit located the man in Casuarina and arrested him for the outstanding matter.

    Western Australia Police are currently in the process of extraditing him back to Perth.

    Northern Territory Police are committed to working with other law enforcement agencies to ensure offenders are held accountable for their actions, regardless of where they attempt to evade responsibility.

    Members of the public who have any information about people involved in child abuse and exploitation are urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or https://crimestoppers.com.au/.

    You can also make a report online by alerting the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation via the ‘Report Abuse’ button at www.accce.gov.au/report.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Green light for community projects in regional South Australia

    Source: Australian Executive Government Ministers

    The Albanese Government is helping South Australia’s regions to thrive by investing almost $11.5 million in community infrastructure that promotes social cohesion and boosts local economies. 

    Five projects will be allocated funding through the Growing Regions Program to build or upgrade social infrastructure – such as sporting clubs, playgrounds and art centres – that improves the lives of locals. 

    The City of Whyalla will receive $3.14 million to deliver the Whyalla Beach Splash & Play Plaza – a destination adventure playground for families and visitors alike. 

    The project will include the construction of an adventure play facility for children and adults, designed for obstacle play with water, nature and accessibility features.  

    The project will also include shelter and seating to create a destination by the Whyalla foreshore for all ages, support 42 jobs during construction and 12 ongoing per annum jobs once open; and provide around $1.2 million visitor spend to the economy. 

    Other successful South Australian projects, which went through a competitive, merits-based assessment process, include: 

    • $3.5 million to the Kingston District Council to deliver a new childcare centre in Kingston including a nature-based outdoor play space, indoor education environment and consultation offices for child allied health services. 
    • $2.5 million to deliver men’s multidisciplinary art studios at four established Indigenous Art Centres across South Australia including Mimili Maku Arts, Kaltjiti Arts, Tjala Arts, and Umoona Community Arts. This will allow these successful studios to introduce better men’s cultural learning and knowledge with an emphasis on employment and training pathways.
    • $1.4 million to redevelop the Penola Football Club and Community Sports Hub to be more accessible, flexible, sustainable, and able to continue into the future. 
    • $900,000 to the District Council of Orroroo Carrieton to upgrade the Orroroo Main Street and revitalise the town’s CBD. This includes wider footpaths to support outdoor dining and pedestrian access, improved disability access, traffic upgrades to enhance safety, tree planting and more. 

    This funding follows $23 million already allocated to South Australia under the first round of the Growing Regions Program. 
     
    The Growing Regions Program is one of four federal funding programs established by the Albanese Government to ensure that all areas of Australia have access to a funding opportunity for programs to support wider community benefit. 

    For more information, including a full list of successful projects in the state, visit: www.infrastructure.gov.au/territories-regions-cities/regional-australia/regional-and-community-programs/growing-regions-program.

    Quote attributable to Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:

    “Whether sports clubs or community hubs, parks or pools, social infrastructure is the backbone of connected societies.

    “From the Limestone Coast to the APY Lands, the Albanese Government is delivering the infrastructure our regions need, investing millions into South Australia to ensure it can thrive.”

    Quotes attributable to Senator for South Australia Karen Grogan:

    “Funding for these much-needed projects across South Australia will deliver infrastructure that increases community cohesion, liveability and accessibility.

    “The Growing Regions Program is making local priority projects a reality, and I look forward to seeing the significant benefits this funding will provide for South Australian communities.

    “Labor knows that regional South Australia is unique and community-driven, and requires unique and community-driven solutions – and that is exactly what we are delivering”

    Quotes attributable to City of Whyalla Mayor Phill Stone:

    “I’d like to sincerely thank Minister King and the Albanese Government for recognising the significant importance of this project to our community. This first-class project will make Whyalla a more attractive place to live, while expecting to increase visitor spend by more than $1 million per year.

    “It will not only benefit those who already call Whyalla home, but also be a major drawcard in helping attract new residents that are needed over the coming years to service the major industrial projects in the pipeline.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed Rebukes Trump’s Disruptive Blanket Suspension of Federal Funds for RI

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed
    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Jack Reed, who, along with his colleagues in the Rhode Island Congressional delegation, was among the first lawmakers to sound the alarm about President Donald Trump unilaterally directing a halt to federal grant funding for Rhode Island and states nationwide, issued the following statement as the fallout from Trump’s freeze metastasizes:
    “President Trump’s disruptive blanket suspension of these federal funds threatens real harm to Americans everywhere.  Trump’s directive is already sewing confusion and chaos with respect to health care, education, housing, disaster aid, and more.  Legal action by organizations and several states, including Rhode Island, is being initiated.  But there is a much quicker, less costly solution here: President Trump should immediately rescind this reckless and unconstitutional directive.  He needs to do it fast because every day this drags on the impacts grow worse.  He should stop wasting taxpayers’ money and putting people, communities, and essential services at risk.
    “I will continue working to halt this irresponsible freeze and ensure federal resources are administered in accordance with the law.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Global wildlife trade is an enormous market – the US imports billions of animals from nearly 30,000 species

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Michael Tlusty, Professor of Sustainability and Food Solutions, UMass Boston

    U.S. Fish and Wildlife agents inspect a shipment of reptiles at the Port of Miami. U.S. GAO

    When people think of wildlife trade, they often picture smugglers sneaking in rare and endangered species from far-off countries. Yet most wildlife trade is actually legal, and the United States is one of the world’s biggest wildlife importers.

    New research that we and a team of colleagues published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences shows that, over the last 22 years, people in the U.S. legally imported nearly 2.85 billion individual animals representing almost 30,000 species.

    Some of these wild animals become pets, such as reptiles, spiders, clownfish, chimpanzees and even tigers. Thousands end up in zoos and aquariums, where many species on display come directly from the wild.

    Medical research uses macaque monkeys and imports up to 39,000 of them every year. The fashion trade imports around 1 million to 2 million crocodile skins every year. Hunting trophies are also included in wildlife.

    How many species are legally traded worldwide?
    Benjamin Marshall, et al., 2024, PNAS, CC BY-SA

    The largest number of imported species are birds – 4,985 different species are imported each year, led by Muscovy ducks, with over 6 million imported. Reptiles are next, with 3,048 species, led by iguanas and royal pythons. These largely become pets.

    Not all wildlife are wild

    We found that just over half of the animals imported into the U.S. come from the wild.

    Capturing wildlife to sell to exporters can be an important income source for rural communities around the world, especially in Africa. However, wild imported species can also spread diseases or parasites or become invasive. In fact, these risks are so worrying that many imported animals are classed as “injurious wildlife” due to their potential role in transmitting diseases to native species.

    Captive breeding has played an increasingly dominant role in recent years as a way to limit the impact on wild populations and to try to reduce disease spread.

    However over half the individual animals from most groups of species, such as amphibians or mammals, still come from the wild, and there is no data on the impact of the wildlife trade on most wild populations.

    Trade may pose a particular risk when species are already rare or have small ranges. Where studies have been done, the wild populations of traded species decreased by an average of 62% across the periods monitored.

    Sustainable wildlife trade is possible, but it relies on careful monitoring to balance wild harvest and captive breeding.

    Data is thin in many ways

    For most species in the wildlife trade, there is still a lot that remains unknown, including even the number of species traded.

    With so many species and shipments, wildlife inspectors are overwhelmed. Trade data may not include the full species name for groups like butterflies or fish. The values in many customs databases are reported by companies but never verified.

    Macaques, used in medical research, are the most-traded primates globally, according to an analysis of U.S. Fish and Wildlife data.
    Davidvraju, CC BY-SA

    In our study, we relied on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Law Enforcement Management Information System, a wildlife import-export data collection system. However, few countries collate and release data in such a standardized way; meaning that for the majority of species legally traded around the world there is no available data.

    For example, millions of Tokay geckos are imported as pets and for medicine, and are often reported to be bred in captivity. However, investigators cannot confirm that they weren’t actually caught in the wild.

    Why tracking the wildlife trade is important

    Biodiversity has a great number of economic and ecological benefits. There are also risks to importing wildlife. Understanding the many species and number of animals entering the country, and whether they were once wild or farmed, is important, because imported wildlife can cause health and ecological problems.

    Wildlife can spread diseases to humans and to other animals. Wild-caught monkeys imported for medical research may carry diseases, including ones of particular risk to humans. Those with diseases are more likely to be wild than captive-bred.

    The most-traded mammals worldwide are minks, which are valued for their fur but can spread viruses to humans and other species. About 48 million minks are legally traded annually, about 2.8% wild-caught and the majority raised, according to U.S. Fish and Wildlife data.
    Colin Canterbury/USFWS

    Species that aren’t native to the U.S. may also escape or be released into the wild. Invasive species can cause billions of dollars in damage by consuming and outcompeting native wildlife and spreading diseases.

    We believe better data on the wildlife trade could be used to set management goals, such as harvest quotas or no-take policies for those species in their country of origin.

    What’s next

    The researchers involved in this study come from institutes around the world and are all interested in improving data systems for wildlife trade.

    Some of us focus on how e-commerce platforms such as Etsy and Instagram have become hotspots of wildlife trade and can be challenging to monitor without automation. Esty announced in 2024 that it would remove listings of endangered or threatened species. Others build tools to help wildlife inspectors process the large number of shipments in real time. Many of us examine the problems imported species cause when they become invasive.

    In the age of machine learning, artificial intelligence and big data, it’s possible to better understand the wildlife trade. Consumers can help by buying less, and making informed decisions.

    Michael Tlusty is a founding member of the Wildlife Detection Partnership and co-developed the Nature Intelligence System, which assists governments in collecting more accurate wildlife data..

    Andrew Rhyne is currently on sabbatical funded by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), focused on the wildlife trade data. He is a founding member of the Wildlife Detection Partnership and co-developed the Nature Intelligence System, which assists governments in collecting more accurate wildlife data.

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

    – ref. Global wildlife trade is an enormous market – the US imports billions of animals from nearly 30,000 species – https://theconversation.com/global-wildlife-trade-is-an-enormous-market-the-us-imports-billions-of-animals-from-nearly-30-000-species-247197

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Skoltech and NSU discussed cooperation in the development of new functional materials

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    Representatives of the Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology visited Novosibirsk State University to discuss cooperation on R&D carried out by Skoltech on behalf of the NTI Competence Center for New Functional Materials based at NSU. The delegation included Ivan Sergeichev, Director of the Center for Materials Technology at the Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, Dmitry Krasovsky, Deputy Director of the Center for Relations with Industry, participants in joint projects with NSU, as well as specialists in building interactions between stakeholders.

    The purpose of the visit was to get acquainted with the structure of the Competence Center of the National Technology Initiative in the direction of “Technologies for modeling and developing new functional materials with specified properties”, which was created at NSU in 2021 with the financial support of the NTI Foundation, as well as with its capabilities and industrial partners.

    — At the end of last year, we signed agreements with Skoltech to implement three large-scale projects: “Design of Materials for Thermal Barrier Coatings”, “Development of Additive Manufacturing Technology for Complex-Geometry Ceramic Rods for Casting Gas Turbine Blades”, and “Metal Oxide Nanoparticles for Protecting Products and Materials from Counterfeiting”. Our task is to create samples of new materials and software products in a short period of time in order to begin introducing new materials and products made from them to the market as soon as possible through interaction with potential industrial partners. These could be manufacturers of engines, gas turbine units and their parts, polymer-composite materials and various products made from them, the authenticity of which, among other things, must be protected from counterfeiting, — explained Alexander Kvashnin, Director of the NTI Center for New Functional Materials at NSU.

    Following the meeting, the parties developed mutually beneficial forms of cooperation. One of them involves Skoltech’s participation in the work of three distributed centers created by the Center for New Functional Materials and its partners at the end of last year – the Distributed Center for Modeling, Calculations and Design, the Distributed Center for Research and Development of Materials and Technologies for Their Production, as well as the Distributed Production Site for Small Batch Products, where it is possible to produce small batches of new materials and products made from them using NSU technologies for further delivery for testing at industrial enterprises. The software developed by the partners will be used in the distributed center for modeling, calculations and design.

    Meanwhile, in Skolkovo, during the implementation of these three projects, the necessary innovative equipment will be created, including a new 3D printer for complex printing of ceramic rods for gas turbine units and a reactor for the production of metal oxide nanoparticles to protect materials and products from counterfeiting. This equipment will be used as part of distributed centers.

    “Our cooperation with Skoltech will allow the university to expand the circle of its Moscow partners and potential customers, which may include the state corporation for assistance in the development, production and export of high-tech industrial products Rostec, United Engine Corporation, Gazpromneft and other large Russian corporations interested in the development and implementation of advanced technologies,” commented Alexander Kvashnin.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –