NewzIntel.com

Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI China: IOMed serves as legal public good for improving global governance: Chinese FM

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

    Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, poses for a group photo with other guests at the signing ceremony of the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organization for Mediation (IOMed) in Hong Kong, south China, May 30, 2025. The signing ceremony was held here on Friday. Wang Yi attended the ceremony and delivered a speech. [Photo/Xinhua]

    HONG KONG, May 30 — The International Organization for Mediation (IOMed) serves as an important public good in the field of the rule of law for better global governance, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said here on Friday.

    Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, delivered a speech at the signing ceremony of the Convention on the Establishment of the IOMed in Hong Kong.

    Wang said that as an innovative step in international rule of law, the IOMed has great significance in the history of international relations.

    Wang noted that the establishment of the IOMed is an actualization of the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and will fill an institutional gap in international mediation.

    The birth of the IOMed can help transcend the “you-lose-I-win” zero-sum mentality, promote the amicable resolution of international disputes, and foster more harmonious international relations, Wang said.

    The IOMed respects the wishes of parties concerned, and draws upon the strengths of being more flexible, cost-effective, convenient, and efficient, he said, adding that it will complement and form synergies with litigation, arbitration and other existing international dispute settlement mechanisms.

    Emphasizing the importance of enhancing the participation of developing countries and improving the representation and say of the Global South in international governance, Wang called on parties to put in place at an early date a set of world-class mediation rules and mechanisms featuring autonomy, flexibility, pragmatism and high efficiency.

    As decided through consultation among countries participating in the negotiation of the convention, the IOMed will be headquartered in Hong Kong, Wang said, adding that the city, with affinity to the motherland and connection to the world, enjoys exceptional advantages in international mediation.

    China looks forward to the signatories’ early ratification of the convention and welcomes the active participation of more countries, said the foreign minister.

    About 400 high-level representatives from 85 countries and nearly 20 international organizations attended Friday’s signing event. Among them, 33 countries signed the convention on-site, making them the founding members of the IOMed.

    Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Zimbabwean Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Amon Murwira, Nicaragua’s Attorney General Wendy Carolina Morales Urbina, Serbian Minister of Justice Nenad Vujic, Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis and UN Under-Secretary-General Li Junhua delivered speeches at the event.

    Acknowledging that the IOMed is in line with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, they stressed its importance to multilateralism, global governance and global rule of law, and called on more countries to sign and ratify the convention.

    They also appreciated China’s role as a major country and expected the IOMed’s contribution to the peaceful settlement of disputes and friendly cooperation among countries.

    John Lee, chief executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, welcomed the establishment of the world’s first intergovernmental international legal organization dedicated to resolving international disputes through mediation in Hong Kong, adding that Hong Kong will give full play to its institutional advantages of “one country, two systems” and fully support the operation of the IOMed.

    Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, attends the signing ceremony of the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organization for Mediation (IOMed) and delivers a speech, in Hong Kong, south China, May 30, 2025. The signing ceremony was held here on Friday. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for May 31, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on May 31, 2025.

    Detroit’s population grew in 2023, 2024 − a strategy to welcome immigrants helps explain the turnaround from decades of population decline
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Paul N. McDaniel, Associate Professor of Geography, Kennesaw State University The Mexican-American community in southwest Detroit held a rally in March 2025, asking ICE to leave the immigrant community alone. Jim West/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images Detroit’s population grew in 2024 for the second year in

    Hurricane season is here, but FEMA’s policy change could leave low-income areas less protected
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ivis García, Associate Professor of Landscape Architecture and Urban Planning, Texas A&M University Hurricane Harvey inundated the Cottage Grove neighborhood of Houston in 2018. Scott Olson/Getty Images When powerful storms hit your city, which neighborhoods are most likely to flood? In many cities, they’re typically low-income areas.

    Shock NSW Senate result as One Nation beats Labor to win final seat
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne The button was pressed to electronically distribute preferences for the New South Wales Senate today. All analysts expected Labor to win the final seat, for a three

    GPs will be a great help for managing ADHD medications. But many patients will still need specialists
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adam Guastella, Professor and Clinical Psychologist, Michael Crouch Chair in Child and Youth Mental Health, University of Sydney The New South Wales government this week announced reforms that will allow some GPs to treat and potentially diagnose attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This aims to make ADHD care

    Will elections for judges make Mexico the ‘most democratic country in the world’? Critics fear the opposite
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Luis Gómez Romero, Senior Lecturer in Human Rights, Constitutional Law and Legal Theory, University of Wollongong On Sunday, Mexico will hold an unprecedented election, becoming the first country in the world to allow voters to elect judges at every level. Voters will elect approximately half the judges

    What is mantle cell lymphoma? Magda Szubanski’s ‘rare and fast-moving’ cancer, explained
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John (Eddie) La Marca, Senior Research Officer, Blood Cells and Blood Cancer, WEHI (Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research) Lisa Maree Williams/Getty Beloved Australian actor, Magda Szubanski, has revealed she’s been diagnosed with a “very rare, very aggressive, very serious” blood cancer called mantle cell

    Keith Rankin Analysis – Who, neither politician nor monarch, executed 100,000 civilians in a single night?
    Analysis by Keith Rankin. Who, neither politician nor monarch, executed 100,000 civilians in a single night? Answer: Curtis LeMay, American Air Force General, in the wee hours of 10 March 1945. While authorised by his immediate superior, this firebombing of Tokyo was a decentralised military operation which received subsequent popular approval. It was called ‘Operation

    ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for May 30, 2025
    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on May 30, 2025.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wicker Stresses Peace Through Strength to AF Association, Updates on One Big Beautiful Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Mississippi Roger Wicker

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, spoke at the Air Force Association Chapter Meeting in Meridian, Mississippi. He highlighted the history of refueling airplanes in Meridian, a particularly relevant topic amid the U.S. Air Force’s ongoing KC-46 basing decision process. Chairman Wicker also discussed his plan to rebuild the American military, which he had published a year to the day earlier in his landmark report, 21st Century Peace Through Strength. Below are excerpts from his speech, lightly edited for clarity.  

    Click Here for Full Remarks.

    On Being Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee and Implementing Peace Through Strength:

    “I’m the first Chairman of the Armed Services Committee from Mississippi since John C. Stennis was Chairman of Armed Services. It is a dream for me to be able to do that, and particularly at a time like this. We need to be ready to defend ourselves against the axis of aggressors – China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran – that I talk about in my paper, 21st Century Peace Through Strength. Three of those powers have nuclear weapons. One of them is days, perhaps weeks, away from having a nuclear weapon. I absolutely stand with President Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu that our policy should firmly be: Iran never gets a nuclear weapon. Iran hates the United States. They hate the West, they hate democracies, and their aim is to destroy us. They don’t get a nuclear weapon. We can stop it, or we can do as other administrations did and take them at their word that they’re only trying to enrich uranium for peaceful purposes. Do you know how much oil is in the Middle East, and how little they need nuclear power in the Middle East, in Iran, to power themselves? There is no reason in the world for them to want enriched uranium other than to create a nuclear bomb. It would mean the destruction, almost certainly, of our ally Israel.”

    On the KC-46 Basing Decision and Meridian’s History of Refueling:

    ”Let’s talk about some of the things that we’re doing for KC-46 here at the 186. Six point seven million dollars in the last National Defense Authorization Act to accelerate the planning and design of a corrosion control hangar. One million dollars to update the fuel hydrant system, $5.6 million to support planning and design of a maintenance hangar, $1.9 million to support the planning and design of a base supply warehouse at Key Field. There’s more to come, and there’s more we’re doing. I, along with Senator Hyde-Smith and Congressmen Michael Guest and Trent Kelly are going to do the best we can to bring the KC-46 to Meridian. 1971, I was in ROTC, and I’m at field training at Grissom Air Force Base. In 1972, we had dinner with Al Key, mayor of Meridian. His brother Fred had set the record – 27 days in air flight without ever landing. Let me tell you, folks, we invented air refueling in Meridian, Mississippi, and I think that ought to give us a leg up for the KC-46. One man was flying the plane for 27 straight days, and when his brother would come up in another biplane to refuel with a hose, the pilot would get out on the wing of that plane, leaving the cockpit, and they would refuel that plane. They did that for 27 days.”

    On the One Big Beautiful Bill and the Golden Dome:

    “There is one piece of legislation that just passed the House and is now being considered in the Senate called the One Big Beautiful Bill, which includes funding for the Golden Dome. I was talking to Donald J. Trump in the Oval Office, and I was advocating for Iron Dome for America. We think the technology is there to do it for the entire continent. He said, “I think we ought to call it the Golden Dome.” It’s going to be expensive, but I think we have to do this, and we’ve got the technology to do that. North Korea can get a missile to the continental United States right now. China can get a missile to the United States right now, and Russia can. We need that protection. What we had to worry about 15 years ago does not compare to what we have now. A cyberattack is a part of national defense now. It is the next quantum leap of what we’re worried about, and that’s why I’m going to vote for this One Big Beautiful Bill. It’s got $150 billion for defense. The President of the United States is behind the Armed Services Committee of the Senate and the House on putting at least $150 billion in this. It will just get us started. But we are behind. We need to be at 5 percent of our national economy. We are in a position now, with the help of this One Big Beautiful Bill, of getting us back to 5 percent of our economy and having the ability to prevent war. There has never been a war started against a country because that country was too strong. Wars start because the victim country is not strong enough. We are determined to get us back to the point where we are so strong that we never have to send these people into combat. That’s the way to stay out of war, and the opposite is the way we’ve always gotten into war.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy Opposes DHS Plan to Reprogram Border and Cybersecurity Funding to Ice, Highlighting National Security Implications of Their Reckless Spending

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    May 30, 2025

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security, on Friday objected to the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) transfer notification that would move $312.5 million from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). In a letter to DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, Murphy criticized the Department for purposefully spending beyond its means and highlighted the national security implications of transferring funding from CISA.

    Murphy noted that the Department’s transfer authority is supposed to be used sparingly and in unforeseen circumstances, not as a way to spend money they don’t have: “I remind the Department that Congress provided transfer and reprogramming authorities in acknowledgment of unforeseeable and compelling circumstances that may arise after Congress has provided funds for the current fiscal year. The Department should not abuse this authority for avoidable reasons as is the case with this proposed notification. Since the start of this Administration, the Department has knowingly and willfully spent above its means, putting ICE on a path to becoming anti-deficient or simply, spending more funding than you are authorized to spend.”

    Murphy demanded more information about the impact of transferring funding from CISA, given the role it plays in keeping the nation safe from cybersecurity threats: “Further, the Department has failed to provide my staff sufficient details on the impacts of transferring nearly $144,000,000 away from CISA operations and procurements… To that end, I reiterate my staff’s request for information on the impacts of these reductions to CISA’s capacity to mitigate threats to our national security through its cyber defense and critical infrastructure protection activities, including the impacts of proposed transfers of election security funding.”

    Murphy rebuked Secretary Noem at a hearing on the Administration’s skinny budget request for her department’s ‘out of control’ spending, illegal impoundments of Congressional appropriated funds, and for targeting and deporting legal immigrants and student protesters without due process.

    Full text of the letter is available HERE and below.

    Dear Madam Secretary:

    This letter is in response to the April 30, 2025, notification submitted to the Committee by Mr. Jeffrey Bobich, the Director of Financial Management of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), to transfer a total of $312,500,000 from the fiscal year 2025 funding levels for U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)—Operations and Support—Custody Operations.

    I do not support the proposed transfers. Additionally, I remind the Department that Congress provided transfer and reprogramming authorities in acknowledgment of unforeseeable and compelling circumstances that may arise after Congress has provided funds for the current fiscal year. The Department should not abuse this authority for avoidable reasons as is the case with this proposed notification. Since the start of this Administration, the Department has knowingly and willfully spent above its means, putting ICE on a path to becoming anti-deficient or simply, spending more funding than you are authorized to spend. The Administration and this Department have continued to ignore funding limits set by Congress, overspending at levels that it cannot sustain and turning to other Departments, such as the Department of Defense to augment its funding.

    Further, the Department has failed to provide my staff sufficient details on the impacts of transferring nearly $144,000,000 away from CISA operations and procurements. Transfer and reprogramming notices should be accompanied by adequate justifications and the Department should seek to provide rapid and sufficient responses to questions. To that end, I reiterate my staff’s request for information on the impacts of these reductions to CISA’s capacity to mitigate threats to our national security through its cyber defense and critical infrastructure protection activities, including the impacts of proposed transfers of election security funding.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Shangri-La Dialogue 2025 kicks off in Singapore amid geopolitical tensions

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

    People in uniforms perform security duties outside the Shangri-La Hotel, the venue for the 22nd Shangri-La Dialogue, in Singapore, May 30, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The 22nd edition of the Shangri-La Dialogue, Asia’s premier defense and security summit, opened in Singapore on Friday amid geopolitical tensions.

    This year’s dialogue drew representatives from 47 countries, including 40 ministerial-level delegates, 20 chief of defense forces-level delegates, over 20 senior defense officials, and prominent academics, according to the Singapore Ministry of Defense.

    A Chinese delegation from the National Defense University of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army is attending the event.

    French President Emmanuel Macron is set to deliver a keynote speech late Friday, where he’s expected to position France — and Europe — as champions of international cooperation and rules-based trade.

    U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is set to speak on Saturday about America’s “new ambitions for Indo-Pacific security.” Observers say he faces a tough task in convincing Asian allies, many of whom remain uneasy about President Donald Trump’s disruptive policies, not least those related to trade.

    Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim will also give a speech on Saturday and make clear how, amid global geopolitical uncertainties and sharpened geo-economic fault lines, Malaysia as ASEAN’s current chair, provides strategic leadership for the region and beyond, according to the International Institute for Strategic Studies, the organizer.

    EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas is also scheduled to speak on Saturday.

    Analysts say key topics will likely include regional cooperation, the U.S. security policies and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. The implications of sweeping U.S. tariffs are also likely to attract attention, as officials will use the platform to reassure partners and navigate an increasingly multipolar security landscape.

    The Dialogue runs from Friday through Sunday.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: US begins additional vetting for anyone seeking visa to travel to Harvard

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

    This photo taken on May 24, 2025 shows a view of the Harvard University campus in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the United States. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The U.S. Department of State on Friday ordered all U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide to “immediately begin additional vetting” for anyone seeking a visa to travel to Harvard University for “any purpose.”

    According to a diplomatic cable signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and seen by local media, the “additional vetting” comprises “a complete screening of the online presence” of the applicants, and “such applicants include, but are not limited to prospective students, students, faculty, employees, contractors, guest speakers, and tourists.”

    The word “any” is underlined with bold font in the passage, while the cable states that the screening applies to “any” nonimmigrant visa applicant for “any” purpose.

    The cable instructs U.S. consular officers to have applicants who are otherwise eligible for a visa to set their social media accounts to public and then refer their cases to the Fraud Prevention Unit, who should conduct a comprehensive and thorough vetting of each such applicant, including social media activity … and more generally any online presence, to identify possible inadmissibilities.

    “The enhanced vetting measures described in this guidance aim at ensuring that consular officers can appropriately identify such visa applicants with histories of anti-Semitic harassment and violence, and to duly consider the visa eligibility under U.S. immigration law,” the cable states.

    The move is an escalation of the Trump administration’s feud with the Ivy League institution as it applies to more than just students, local media claimed. It will also serve as a pilot for expanded social media screening and vetting visa applicants across the board.

    The U.S. government on Tuesday suspended scheduling new interviews for student-visa applicants, saying it was considering requiring all foreign students applying to study in the United States to undergo social media vetting.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray on President Trump’s Budget Request 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, issued the following statement on the release of President Trump’s fiscal year 2026 budget request, which proposes slashing critical investments in non-defense programs that matter immensely to families and our country’s competitiveness and future.
    “It’s telling that President Trump has chosen to release his budget on a Friday night with no fanfare whatsoever. That’s probably because his budget would raise costs for working people, destroy basic services we all count on, and let our adversaries run circles around us—all while President Trump works to shower billionaires like himself in new tax breaks. 
    “For President Trump: it’s no billionaire left behind—and good luck to everyone else.  
    “This budget would outright eliminate programs that help working families afford the basics, gut investments in our students and schools, slash Pell Grants, and kick hundreds of thousands of Americans out of their homes. President Trump wants to let America’s small businesses go under, turn his back on our Tribes, and let trash pile up at our national parks.  
    “America’s research enterprise has long been the envy of the world, driving awe-inspiring technological progress and producing medical treatments and cures that have saved millions of lives. But President Trump is now proposing to destroy it by nearly halving the NIH’s budget and gutting all kinds of cutting-edge scientific research. You might as well gift wrap the future and hand it to China. 
    “President Trump apparently wants to make our communities less safe and healthy—because he is now asking Congress to gut funding to prevent violent crime, crack down on drug trafficking, tackle the opioids and mental health crises, and protect people’s health. 
    “This president wants to explode the debt and deficit by trillions of dollars to help line billionaires’ pockets while kicking millions off their health care and shredding investments that matter most to families and our country’s success.  
    “This is now the latest budget request in history, and remarkably, it is not even complete, because it still lacks all manner of essential details. 
    “This is a draconian proposal to hurt working people and our economy, and it is dead on arrival in Congress as long as I have anything to say about it. But this is just another reminder we need Republicans to join us to reject these reckless cuts, focus on the investments we actually need to make in our communities and security, and to finally force Trump to follow the law and end his devastating funding freeze.” 
    On President Trump’s proposed budget for Hanford, Howard Hanson Dam, and the Puget Sound Geographic Program, Senator Murray said:
    “The president’s proposed budget for Hanford is utterly unacceptable and will be going nowhere as far as I am concerned. Trump’s proposal for Hanford would force us to fall behind on the cleanup mission at a critical time, leaving key milestones unmet and raising the cost of the cleanup in the long run—not to mention increasing the safety and environmental risks for the Tri-Cities. Writing spending bills will be challenging, but I’ll be fighting to support Hanford, the workers powering the cleanup mission, and the Tri-Cities community. 
    “Similarly, it is disappointing that Trump is providing zero construction funding for the Howard Hanson Dam, a shovel-ready project that is absolutely critical to ensuring long-term water reliability for over one million people in Washington state and saving endangered salmon. Trump is also proposing a devastating $25 million cut to the Puget Sound Geographic Program, which will seriously set back progress to save our salmon and protect and restore our water quality and ecosystems throughout the Puget Sound. Trump’s budget request for Geographic Programs appears to continue a corrupt pattern of targeting blue states by ripping away their funding while sparing red states—this is a politically motivated abuse of power that should be deeply troubling to everyone. 
    “As I’ve said many times, President Trump’s shortsightedness is going to have severe consequences down the road. I will be tearing up Trump’s budget and working hard to help write a new one.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Jimmy Panetta Announces Six Local Nominees to the U. S. Service Academies

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif)

    Monterey, CA – U.S. Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) announced his 2025 nominations of six outstanding high school students to the United States Service Academies.  These students have been selected to attend the nation’s prestigious military academies this fall, where they will begin their journey to become officers in the U.S. Armed Forces.  The nominees and their families and friends were recognized at a special reception on Sunday, May 18, 2025, at the Defense Language Institute Foreign Language Center (DLIFLC) in Monterey.

    “These students are stepping forward and stepping up to lead at a time when we need young men and women at the forefront of our defense of democracy,” said Rep. Panetta.  “Few choices are as selfless and courageous as choosing to serve our nation, and these exceptional young people have each raised their hands to do so on behalf of our community and country.  It is one of my highest honors to nominate these leaders who fully comprehend our obligation to our democracy and embody the values and strength of California’s 19th Congressional District, knowing they will help defend and strengthen our country.”

    Students seeking appointment to a U.S. service academy must receive a formal nomination from a Member of Congress, a U.S. Senator, or the Vice President.  Applicants undergo a rigorous process including submission of academic records, personal essays, letters of recommendation, and a formal interview with a panel of community leaders and veterans.  The nomination panel provides recommendations for Rep. Panetta to make his final selections.

    Rep. Panetta’s office nominates students to the United States Naval Academy, United States Military Academy at West Point, United States Air Force Academy, and the United States Merchant Marine Academy.  High school seniors in California’s 19th Congressional District interested in a 2026 nomination are encouraged to apply online and contact Rep. Panetta’s district office at 831-424-2229 with any questions.

    Rep. Panetta’s 2025 nominees are:

    United States Naval Academy

    • Christina Doan, Evergreen Valley High School

    United States Military Academy, West Point

    • Jacob Yu, Leland High School
    • James Kim, Santa Teresa High School

    United States Air Force Academy

    • Gabriel Dobson, Pacific Collegiate School
    • Spencer Sanders, Templeton High School

    United States Merchant Marine Academy

    • Cyrus Wong, Lynbrook High School

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SFST promotes HK’s measures for integrating traditional and digital finance at Web Summit Vancouver (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    SFST promotes HK’s measures for integrating traditional and digital finance at Web Summit Vancouver  
    The Web Summit, a mega event for the tech sector, attracted over 10 000 tech investors, entrepreneurs and industry leaders across the world each time it is hosted. This is the first time the Summit has been held in Vancouver. Mr Hui engaged in a panel discussion session titled “Local to global: Strategies for tech success”, which was joined by the Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation of the Province of British Columbia, Canada, Ms Diana Gibson. They had an illuminating discussion on the various approaches taken in building dynamic fintech economies, ranging from developing talent, attracting investment to creating opportunities.
     
    Mr Hui said that as one of the top three international financial centres and a leading international green finance hub, Hong Kong is pioneering the integration of traditional and digital finance with a view to strengthening its position as Asia’s gateway for financial innovation. The city is striving to accelerate green and sustainable finance and virtual asset development, with a view to making them key components of the diversified financial value chain. The Hong Kong Monetary Authority has already commenced sandbox experimentation of Project Ensemble, which is a new wholesale central bank digital currency project to support the development of the tokenisation market in Hong Kong.
     
          The fintech ecosystem is thriving in Hong Kong, with around 1 100 fintech companies and start-ups, including 10 licensed virtual asset trading platforms, eight digital banks and four virtual insurers. Pledged to continue playing a leading role in facilitating green and sustainable financing and investment for the global agenda of green transition, Hong Kong issued a policy statement last October to set out its policy stance and approach on the responsible application of artificial intelligence in the financial market. The Government also launched a roadmap last December to require publicly accountable entities (PAEs) to adopt the International Financial Reporting Standards – Sustainability Disclosure Standards (ISSB Standards) and to provide a well-defined pathway for large PAEs to fully adopt the ISSB Standards no later than 2028. This brings Hong Kong among the first jurisdictions to align its local requirements with ISSB Standards. As an initial step, the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited has already started to implement in phases new climate disclosure requirements to reflect the ISSB Standard No. 2: Climate-related Disclosures since this January.
     
    Mr Hui also updated the Summit on the latest passage of legislation last week establishing a licensing regime for fiat-referenced stablecoins issuers in Hong Kong, as a way to further enhance Hong Kong’s regulatory framework on virtual asset activities for supporting the healthy, responsible and sustainable development of Hong Kong’s stablecoin and the broader digital asset ecosystem. Hong Kong is among the first batch of regions to have introduced stablecoin legislation and strives to fully implement the licensing regime within this year, with a view to approving the first batch of licences as soon as practicable.
     
    Looking forward, Hong Kong will soon promulgate a second policy statement on the development of virtual assets to explore the convergence of traditional finance and virtual assets. A consultation on the licensing regimes for virtual asset over-the-counter trading services and custodian services will also be conducted within this year.
     
    During his stay at the Summit, Mr Hui visited exhibition booths manned by Hong Kong delegates. He was pleased to learn that the Hong Kong delegates received encouraging feedback over the past few days, reflecting the world-class standard of Hong Kong fintech talent and their appeal to investors.
     
         In the afternoon, Mr Hui paid a courtesy call to the Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Vancouver, Mr Yang Shu. Mr Yang said Hong Kong has always been a window of the country to the world and will continue to be. He encouraged Hong Kong to keep up with its work in deepening international exchanges and co-operation.
     
    Before concluding his visit to Canada, Mr Hui visited Bank of Montreal and met with the Senior Vice President & Head, Mid-Market, Commercial Bank, Mr Andrew Hung, and Senior Vice President & Head, BC & Yukon, Mr Greg Vriend. He told them that in a world full of geopolitical uncertainties, Hong Kong’s financial market is emerging as a risk-off haven for investors and attracting more investments owing to its connectivity with the Mainland and the world at large, bringing greater prospects for the banking sector and different financial areas.
     
    Mr Hui will return to Hong Kong in the early hours of May 31 (Vancouver time).
    Issued at HKT 9:40

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Global Forum on Int’l Mediation held in Hong Kong to address state-to-state, commercial disputes

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

    This photo taken on May 30, 2025 shows a view of the International Organization for Mediation in south China’s Hong Kong. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The Global Forum on International Mediation was convened in Hong Kong on Friday, following the signing ceremony of the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organization for Mediation (IOMed) earlier.

    The occasion gathered leaders of several signatory states of the Convention, heads of international organizations and multilateral institutions, experts in the field of international mediation, and other stakeholders, to delve into topics including state-to-state mediation as well as international investment and international commercial dispute mediation.

    They applauded mediation’s dual focus on procedural and outcome fairness, describing it as a “win-win” alternative to adversarial legal processes. They also believed that the IOMed would fill a critical gap in global dispute-resolution mechanisms, enhancing both international governance and state-to-state collaboration.

    In his keynote address, Paul Lam, secretary for justice of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government, emphasized the principle of peaceful dispute resolution under international law, calling mediation a forward-looking and constructive approach compared to traditional litigation and arbitration.

    Lam underscored the selection of Hong Kong as the court’s headquarters as a testament to its legal infrastructure, citing Hong Kong’s pool of cross-jurisdictional legal talent and track record in international dispute resolution. Hong Kong’s common law system and reputation for efficiency position it as a global hub for legal services, he said, adding that it would leverage this role to expand mediation services and attract more member states.

    Indonesia’s Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs Arif Havas Oegroseno praised the convention’s timing, calling it a response to global demand for cooperative conflict resolution. He highlighted gaps in current international mechanisms and stressed the importance of a specialized body for strengthening the global legal framework. Oegroseno said Indonesia would actively participate in drafting the court’s rules and collaborate with the relevant parties to advance its mandate.

    Edward Liu, the principal representative of the International Chamber of Shipping (China) Liaison Office and a partner at Haiwen & Partners LLP, described the court as a “Chinese solution” expands the focus on economic engagement to formal dispute resolution, saying that it embodies China’s philosophy of “harmony with diversity” and signals China’s commitment to global governance.

    Noting Hong Kong’s unique status as a common law jurisdiction under “one country, two systems,” Liu said Hong Kong’s role as the court’s base aligns with its designation as an “Asia-Pacific international legal and dispute resolution center.”

    The role as a “super-connector” and a “super value-adder” between the Chinese mainland and the rest of the world positions Hong Kong to serve both national priorities and international needs, he said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI: Trans Mountain Corporation Releases First Quarter 2025 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, May 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Trans Mountain Corporation (“TMC” or “the Company”) has released its financial statements and associated management report for the three months ending March 31, 2025. The Company’s financial results are also included in Canada Development Investment Corporation’s (“CDEV”) consolidated quarterly financial statements.

    Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (“EBITDA”) reflect the performance of TMC’s base business. Revenues and Adjusted EBITDA have increased significantly following the commercial commencement of the Expanded System on May 1, 2024.

    Financial Highlights:

    • EBITDA: For the three-month period ending March 31, 2025, Adjusted EBITDA increased by $532 million to $568 million, compared to $36 million in the same period of the prior year.
    • Capital Structure: In December 2024, Canada TMP Finance Ltd., the entity which holds the Government of Canada’s investment in TMC, provided funding to repay $17.9 billion of guaranteed third-party debt. The refinancing results in lower interest costs for the Company, making additional funds available to optimize the system, grow, pay down debt or increase returns to its shareholder.
    • Capital Return: During the first quarter an aggregate of $311 million was paid to Canada TMP Finance Ltd., consisting of $148 million in interest payments and $163 million in cash dividends. These distributions are expected to grow significantly in 2026 and beyond.

    Operational Highlights:

    • Throughput: During the first quarter, the Expanded System had an average daily mainline throughput of approximately 757,000 barrels per day (bpd), including 445,000 bpd to Westridge Marine Terminal, 227,000 bpd to Washington state on the Puget Sound Pipeline and 85,000 bpd to BC delivery points.
    • Vessel Traffic: For the three-month period ending March 31, 2025, 74 vessels were loaded at Westridge Marine Terminal, including 29 vessels in March marking a new monthly high for the Expanded System’s operation. Since the commercial commencement of the Expanded System on May 1, 2024, TMC has loaded 266 vessels at the terminal. Third-party information suggests vessel destinations have been broadly split between the US West Coast and Asia.
    • Loading Performance: Ship loading performance remains strong. During the quarter, approximately 90 per cent of ships were loaded on time, with delays attributable to vessel operator factors.

    Since the commercial commencement of the Expanded System, all deliveries have been subject to the Expanded System tariff and tolls. Contractually committed revenues associated with the 15-and 20-year transportation service contracts covering approximately 80 per cent of the Expanded System’s capacity have resulted in a significant increase to transportation volumes, revenues and Adjusted EBITDA.

    TMC reported net income of $148 million for the first quarter of 2025, as compared to $158 million in the same period of the prior year. While Adjusted EBITDA reflects the results from the Company’s base business, net income incorporates depreciation and amortization expense, as well as the significant financing impacts of the Trans Mountain Expansion Project (“TMEP”), specifically, the equity allowance for funds used during construction (“AFUDC”), interest expense and capitalized debt financing costs.

    While net income decreased by $10 million year-over year, the underlying factors changed significantly. Interest expense before capitalized debt financing costs was materially lower, reflecting the recapitalization of TMC’s balance sheet in December 2024. However, these savings were offset by increased depreciation and amortization expense, and the cessation of equity AFUDC and capitalized debt financing costs on TMEP following the commercial commencement of the Expanded System.

    CEO Comments

    “Trans Mountain is demonstrating its strategic value to Canada’s economy,” said Mark Maki, Chief Executive Officer, Trans Mountain Corporation. “Our team remains focused on safe, reliable operations as we complete one year of Expanded System operations. The Expanded System has driven strong value to Canada’s energy producers and Canadians overall.” Maki continued, “This critical infrastructure is opening new global markets for Canadian energy, reducing reliance on a single US market and ensuring long-term economic benefits for Canadians. These results reflect the hard work, commitment to safety and collaboration of our dedicated team.

    For the three-month period ending March 31, 2025, the West Texas Intermediate to Western Canadian Select differential averaged US$13 per barrel (bbl), which was US$4 per bbl narrower than the average of US$17 per bbl in Q1, 2024. While the differential does not directly affect TMC’s operational or financial performance, the commencement of the Expanded System has contributed to greater egress optionality and improved oil prices for Canadian producers in the Western Canada Sedimentary Basin,” concluded Maki.

    See the full financial statements and management report documents here. See CDEV’s Quarterly Report here.

    Looking Forward

    Toll Hearing: TMC continues to operate under an interim toll structure currently before the Canada Energy Regulator (CER). On November 30, 2023, the CER approved preliminary interim tolls for the Expanded System, which remain in effect today. Under the current CER hearing timeline, final arguments are scheduled for late 2025.

    Optimization Opportunities: Trans Mountain is exploring both short and long-term optimization projects aimed at increasing pipeline capacity by 200,000 bpd to 300,000 bpd. Potential solutions may include the use of drag-reducing agents to increase flow efficiency, as well as other operational enhancements to improve system capabilities.

    Forward-looking information

    This news release contains certain statements that constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws (“forward-looking information”). Forward-looking information is not historical fact, but instead represents the current expectations of TMC regarding future operating results and other future events relating to TMC, many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain and outside of the control of TMC. Forward-looking information can be identified by words or phrases such as “will”, “may”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “intend”, “plan”, “seek”, “aim”, “potential”, “should”, “would” and similar words or expressions. Forward-looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to, expectations regarding future distributions, potential uses of funds resulting from lower interest costs, expected timing for final arguments for the current CER hearing, potential optimization projects and the expected increase in pipeline capacity resulting from such projects. the opening of global markets for Canadian energy and long-term economic benefits resulting from TMC’s infrastructure. Actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking information. The forward-looking information in this news release is based on certain assumptions that TMC has made regarding, among other things: market conditions, economic conditions, prevailing governmental policies, regulatory, tax, and environmental laws and regulations, inflation rates and commodity prices, future demand for space on TMC’s pipeline systems, interest, tax and foreign exchange rates and expected cash flows and availability of funds. Although TMC believes the assumptions and other factors reflected in the forward-looking information are reasonable as of the date hereof, there can be no assurance that these assumptions and factors will prove to be correct and, as such, forward-looking information is not a guarantee of future performance. Forward-looking information is subject to a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events or results to differ materially, including, but not limited to: the regulatory environment and decisions, including the outcome of regulatory hearings, the available supply and price of energy commodities, TMC’s ability to successfully implement its strategic priorities, the operating performance of TMC’s pipelines and related assets, performance and credit risk of TMC’s counterparties, the geopolitical environment, actions taken by governmental or regulatory authorities, changes in laws, the occurrence of unexpected events such as fires and severe weather conditions, cyber-attacks and other accidents or similar events and adverse general economic and market conditions or other risk factors, many of which are beyond the control of TMC. The foregoing list of assumptions and risk factors should not be construed as exhaustive. The forward-looking information contained in this news release speaks only as of the date hereof. TMC does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking information contained herein, except as required by applicable laws. All forward looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

    GAAP and Non-GAAP measures

    We make use of certain financial measures that do not have a standardized meaning under U.S. GAAP because we believe they improve management’s ability to evaluate our operating performance and compare results between periods. These are known as non-GAAP measures and may not be similar to measures provided by other entities. The non-GAAP measures discussed above should not be considered as an alternative to or more meaningful than revenues, net income, operating income or other U.S. GAAP measures. Adjusted EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization and equity AFUDC) is a non-GAAP measure we use to evaluate our operating performance and is calculated from its most directly comparable U.S. GAAP measure, operating income but excludes the impact of financing decisions, non-cash depreciation and amortization, and non-cash equity AFUDC.

    AFUDC (Allowance for Funds Used During Construction) is an amount recognized under U.S. GAAP by rate-regulated entities to reflect a return on the equity and debt components of capital invested in construction work in progress.

    About Trans Mountain

    Trans Mountain Corporation (together with its wholly-owned subsidiaries, “Trans Mountain”) operates Canada’s only pipeline system transporting oil products to the West Coast. Trans Mountain is a wholly owned entity of Canada TMP Finance Ltd., a subsidiary of Canada Development Investment Corporation (CDEV), the entity which holds the Government of Canada’s investment in TMC. We have nominal capacity to deliver 890,000 barrels of petroleum products each day through a pipeline system of more than 1,180 kilometres of pipeline in Alberta, British Columbia and 111 kilometres of pipeline in Washington state. Trans Mountain also operates a state-of-the-art loading facility, Westridge Marine Terminal, with three berths providing tidewater access to global markets. As a federal Crown corporation, Trans Mountain continues to build on more than 70 years of experience delivering operational and safety excellence through our crude oil pipeline system. To learn more, visit us at www.transmountain.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: May 29th, 2025 Heinrich Presses Trump Administration on Plans to Transfer Public Lands

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich
    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, sent a letter to U.S. Department of the Interior Secretary Doug Burgum demanding answers on the Department’s plans to transfer National Park System units out of federal management. The letter follows Heinrich’squestioning of Secretary Burgum during a Senate Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee hearing, where Burgum failed to provide sufficient answers on the Trump Administration’s plan to transfer hundreds of sites managed by the National Park Service (NPS) to the states.
    “The Administration’s budget proposes a $900 million reduction to the operation of the National Park System – approximately a 30 percent cut. In the same budget submission, the Administration proposed ‘transferring smaller, lesser visited parks to [s]tate and tribal governments,” Heinrich wrote in his letter to Secretary Burgum.
    The Administration’s proposal to reduce NPS’s budget and transfer management responsibilities of park system units to states threatens local economies and businesses. In fact, national parks are engines of economic growth. In 2023, visitors to NPS sites contributed an estimated $55.6 billion to the economy and supported over 400,000 jobs.
    Heinrich noted that only Congress has authority to transfer NPS units in most circumstances, stating clearly his opposition to transferring these sites to the states, “As you know, most NPS units were established legislatively, and transferring them out of federal management would require legislation from Congress. As the Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, which has jurisdiction over legislation regarding the National Park System, I am opposed to the Administration’s proposal to transfer NPS sites to the states.”
    Heinrich continued, emphasizing his concerns over the Secretary’s lack of information on the units under consideration, and what states the Administration hopes to transfer the units to,“You told me that you have not yet consulted with the states that you hope to transfer these units to, nor have you determined which units are under consideration… You told the House Committee on Appropriations, Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies, that there are ‘over 400 other locations that the National Park Service manages’ that are under consideration for divestment, but you did not provide any detail about which units those are, other than that they are not the ‘crown Jewels.”’
    Heinrich concluded his letter by asking for detailed answers from Secretary Burgum to the following questions:
    At the hearing in the House Appropriations Committee, you said the administration is not considering transferring any of the “crown jewel” national parks. Please list which NPS units the administration is not considering transferring to states and which units the administration is considering transferring to states. For each unit the administration is considering transferring to states, please describe why the administration is considering the transfer.
     What factors will the administration consider when generating its list of which NPS units to transfer and which units not to transfer? In responding to this question, please provide a comprehensive list of all factors the Department will consider.
     For each NPS unit the Department is considering transferring to a state, has the Department conducted or does the Department plan to conduct a comprehensive analysis to understand the economic impact to local gateway communities? If so, please provide a copy of the analysis.
     For each NPS unit the Department is considering transferring to a state, has the Department conducted or does the Department plan to conduct a comprehensive analysis to understand if the state is equipped (e.g., possesses sufficient resources and funding) to manage the site? If so, please provide a copy of the analysis.
    Read the full letter here and below.
    Dear Secretary Burgum:
    Earlier this month, the Trump administration released its preliminary 2026 budget request outlining significant cuts to government agencies, including steep cuts to the Department of the Interior’s National Park Service (NPS). The administration’s budget proposes a $900 million reduction to the operation of the National Park System – approximately a 30 percent cut.
    In the same budget submission, the administration proposed “transferring smaller, lesser visited parks to [s]tate and tribal governments.” The administration’s proposal to reduce NPS’ budget and transfer management responsibilities of park system units to states threatens local economies and businesses. In fact, national parks are engines of economic growth. In 2023, visitors to NPS sites contributed an estimated $55.6 billion to the economy and supported over 400,000 jobs.
    As you know, most NPS units were established legislatively, and transferring them out of federal management would require legislation from Congress. As the ranking member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, which has jurisdiction over legislation regarding the National Park System, I am opposed to the administration’s proposal to transfer NPS sites to the states. States do not have the same resources as the Federal government to manage and maintain these sites that tell the complex story of our nation. The budget proposal makes clear that the administration expects the states to shoulder the burden of managing these sites without any additional funding or resources, many of which have significant and costly deferred maintenance backlogs.
    You appeared before the Senate Committee on Appropriations, Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies, earlier this week to outline the administration’s budget submission. At that hearing, I asked you about the administration’s plan to transfer hundreds of NPS units to the states. You told me that you have not yet consulted with the states that you hope to transfer these units to, nor have you determined which units are under consideration. Earlier in the week, you told the House Committee on Appropriations, Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies, that there are “over 400 other locations that the national park service manages” that are under consideration for divestment, but you did not provide any detail about which units those are, other than that they are not the “crown Jewels.”
    In light of these outstanding questions and concerns, I request you provide comprehensive responses to the following questions by June 6, 2025:
    1. At the hearing in the House Appropriations Committee, you said the administration is not considering transferring any of the “crown jewel” national parks. Please list which NPS units the administration is not considering transferring to states and which units the administration is considering transferring to states. For each unit the administration is considering transferring to states, please describe why the administration is considering the transfer.
    2. What factors will the administration consider when generating its list of which NPS units to transfer and which units not to transfer? In responding to this question, please provide a comprehensive list of all factors the Department will consider.
    3. For each NPS unit the Department is considering transferring to a state, has the Department conducted or does the Department plan to conduct a comprehensive analysis to understand the economic impact to local gateway communities? If so, please provide a copy of the analysis.
    4. For each NPS unit the Department is considering transferring to a state, has the Department conducted or does the Department plan to conduct a comprehensive analysis to understand if the state is equipped (e.g., possesses sufficient resources and  funding) to manage the site? If so, please provide a copy of the analysis.
    Thank you, in advance, for your prompt responses to these questions. If you have any questions or need additional information, please do not hesitate to contact my staff at (202) 224-4971.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dr. Rand Paul Reintroduces Bill to Repeal Job-Killing ‘Tan Tax’

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Rand Paul
     
     
    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
    May 30, 2025, 2025
     Contact: Press_Paul@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343
     
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) reintroduced the Tan Tax Repeal Act, legislation to eliminate the burdensome 10 percent tax on indoor tanning services—a relic of the disastrous Affordable Care Act. The tax, imposed in 2010 as a last-minute addition to fund Obamacare, has disproportionately hurt small businesses and women entrepreneurs across the country. The bill is cosponsored by Senators Ted Budd (R-NC), Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and Pete Ricketts (R-NE).
    “This tax was never about public health—it was about squeezing more money out of hardworking Americans to fund a broken government program,” said Dr. Paul. “The Tan Tax is a perfect example of the federal government picking winners and losers—and in this case, punishing women-owned businesses trying to stay afloat in a tough economy.”
    BACKGROUND:
    The so-called “Tan Tax” was slipped into the Affordable Care Act as a last-minute replacement for a proposed “Botox tax.” The result? Over 11,000 tanning salons—most of them women-owned—have closed their doors. 
    According to the American Suntanning Association, more than 110,000 jobs, mostly held by women, have been lost. The tax also decimated domestic tanning equipment manufacturers, shifting jobs and production to foreign countries.
    Dr. Paul has long opposed the Affordable Care Act and has consistently called for the repeal of harmful, overreaching policies like the Tan Tax. He previously included this repeal in his broader Obamacare replacement legislation.
    You can read the Tan Tax Repeal Act HERE.
     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister Carney convenes the Incident Response Group

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    Today, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, convened the Incident Response Group with ministers and senior officials to address the escalating 2025 wildfire situation affecting many parts of the country, particularly Western Canada.

    The group was briefed on the government’s support to affected communities, including the mobilization of Canadian Armed Forces personnel to support air evacuations in Manitoba, notably in the community of the Mathias Colomb Cree Nation. The scale and complexity of these air evacuations cannot be overstated – and neither can the unwavering dedication of the teams executing them.

    The Prime Minister has been in close contact with the Premiers of Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Various arms of the federal government are working with premiers and the Canadian Armed Forces. All orders of government are engaged, including with Indigenous leadership.

    Prime Minister Carney shared that the government will partner with the Canadian Red Cross to match donations and will work with provincial partners to provide essential services, such as temporary lodging, clothing, and food, to those impacted.

    The Prime Minister emphasized emergency management support to all those affected, including First Nations communities. He also expressed gratitude to first responders, Canadian Armed Forces members, and local officials on the ground.

    The Prime Minister affirmed that the government stands ready to mobilize additional federal support wherever needed and in all aspects.

    Associated Links

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Polis Signs Bills In Grand Junction and Western Slope to Support Outdoor Recreation and Protect the Great Outdoors

    Source: US State of Colorado

    GRAND JUNCTION – Today, Governor Polis signed bills in Grand Junction to support outdoor recreation and protect the great outdoors that Colorado is known for. Governor Polis signed the bipartisan SB25-174 – Sunset Outfitters & Guides, sponsored by Senators Dylan Roberts and Cleave Simpson and Representatives Meghan Lukens and Matt Soper and the bipartisan HB25-1215 – Redistribution of Lottery Fund, sponsored by Representatives Rick Taggart and Junie Joseph and Senators Jeff Bridges and Barbara Kirkmeyer to support local outdoor recreation businesses and workers, and increase opportunities for every Coloradan to experience the outdoors. 

    “Protecting and enjoying Colorado’s great outdoors is an important part of who we are. These new laws will protect our outdoors, support our outdoor recreation businesses and economy, and expand opportunity to ensure all Coloradans for generations can enjoy our state’s world-class great outdoors,” said Governor Polis. 

    Governor Polis also signed the bipartisan HB25-1021 – Tax Incentives for Employee-Owned Businesses, sponsored by Reps William Lindstedt and Rick Taggart and Senators Jeff Bridges and Mark Baisley. 

    “Employee-owned businesses provide good-paying jobs and support our strong economy. Ownership opportunities for employees are good for businesses and employees, driving growth, creating opportunity, and strengthening recruitment and retention. I am proud of our work to help businesses embrace the benefits of employee ownership,” said Governor Polis. 

    At Grand Junction Community Hospital, Governor Polis signed the bipartisan SB25-071 – Prohibit Restrictions on 340B Drugs, sponsored by Senators Dafna Michaelson Jenet and Janice Rich and Reps Matthew Martinez and Rick Taggart. 

    “We are focused on saving people money on health care, and costly prescription drugs can force Coloradans to decide between paying for prescriptions over food, housing, and other necessities. I am proud to sign a major new law to expand drug discounts and enable hospital providers to expand access to affordable care, including by lowering prescription medication costs. I continue to call on the federal government to grant Colorado’s waiver to import lower-cost prescription drugs from Canada,” said Governor Polis. 

    This afternoon, Governor Polis visited Glenwood Springs to sign the bipartisan SB25-272 – Regional Transportation Authority Sales and Use Tax Exemption, sponsored by Senators Faith Winter and Marc Catlin and Representatives Elizabeth Velasco and Meg Froelich. 

    “Building more housing near transit and expanding transit options is important for our goals to reduce pollution and make our high quality of life more affordable and liveable. This bill will help local governments and regional and local transit agencies build more workforce housing and provide more transportation options that save Coloradans time and money in all four corners of the state,” said Governor Polis. 

    Governor Polis then traveled to Colorado Mountain College to sign the bipartisan HB25-1186 – Work-Based Learning Experiences in Higher Education, sponsored by Representatives Matthew Martinez and Meghan Lukens, and Senators Janice Rich and Dafna Michaelson Jenet. 

    “Expanding opportunities for work-based learning for all students, whether they’re in K-12 or higher education, is important for our workforce, economy, and each student’s future. This bill will expand access to work-based learning in the classroom and in the workforce, helping students gain the skills to get good-paying jobs,” said Governor Polis. 

    Governor Polis also signed the following bipartisan bills into law: 

    • HB25-1080 – Wireless Telephone Infrastructure Deployment Incentives, sponsored by Representatives Meghan Lukens and Matt Soper, and Senator Nick Hinrichsen
    • HB25-1006 – School District Solar Garden Lease Term, sponsored by Representatives Meghan Lukens and Anthony Hartsook and Senators Jeff Bridges and Chris Kolker
    • HB25-1153 – Statewide Government Language Access Assessment, sponsored by Representatives Elizabeth Velasco and Junie Joseph and Senator Iman Jodeh 

    The Governor signed the following bills administratively: 

    • SB25-144 – Change Paid Family Medical Leave Insurance Program, sponsored by Senators Winter and Bridges, and Representatives Willford and Zokaie.
      • “This new law will lower the payroll tax rate and provide a stable, workable pathway for setting premiums and safeguarding the solvency of this fund going forward. It will also provide support to families with children in the NICU, ensuring parents and loved ones can take the time away from work needed to be with their families,” said Governor Polis. Read the Governor’s signing statement.
    • HB25-1094 – Pharmacy Benefit Manager Practices, sponsored by Representatives Brown and Johnson, and Senators Pelton and Roberts. Read the Governor’s signing statement.
    • HB25-1259 – In Vitro Fertilization Protection & Gamete Donation Requirements, sponsored by Representatives Froelich and Brown, and Senators Cutter and Daugherty
    • HB25-1285 – Veterinary Workforce Requirements, sponsored by Representatives McCormick and Johnson, and Senators Kipp and Pelton
    • HB25-1301 – Authorizing Voice Court Reporter to Give Oath, sponsored by Representatives Carter and Espenoza, and Senators Roberts and Gonzales
    • HB25-1304 – Extension of Restitution Deadlines, sponsored by Representatives Froelich and Soper, and Senators Snyder and Bright
    • HB25-1318 – Species Conservation Trust Fund Projects, sponsored by Representatives McCormick and Soper, and Senators Roberts and Catlin
    • HB25-1326 – Updating Safety Net Provider Terminology, sponsored by Representatives Espenoza and Bradley, and Senator Ball
    • SB25-158 – State Agency Procurement & Disposal Certain Items, sponsored by Senators Sullivan and Gonzales, and Representatives Froelich and Brown
    • SB25-278 – Epinephrine Administration in Schools, sponsored by Senator Mullica, and Representatives Stewart and Bradley
    • SB25-285 – Updating Food Establishment Inspection Fees, sponsored by Senator Roberts, and Representatives Lukens and Soper
    • SB25-292 – Workforce Capacity Center, sponsored by Senators Amabile and Bridges, and Representatives Sirota and Taggart
    • SB25-308 – Medicaid Services Related to Federal Authorizations, sponsored by Senators Amabile and Kirkmeyer, and Representatives Taggart and Sirota
    • SB25-309 – Authorize Legislative Fellows, sponsored by Senator Simpson, and Representatives Brown and Bradfield
    • SB25-298 – Remove Term Homosexuality from Criminal Code, sponsored by Senators Daugherty and Lundeen, and Representatives Lindsay and Lukens
    • SB25-312 – American Rescue Plan Act Funds, sponsored by Senators Amabile and Kirkmeyer, and Representatives Bird and Sirota
    • SB25-313 – Proposition 123 Revenue Uses, sponsored by Senators Amabile and Bridges, and Representatives Bird and Sirota 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Homes fit for heroes with extra £1.5 billion for forces housing through upcoming Strategic Defence Review

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Homes fit for heroes with extra £1.5 billion for forces housing through upcoming Strategic Defence Review

    Record additional funding for forces family housing to tackle state of accommodation, and builds on the Defence Consumer Charter to transform living conditions for service families.

    • More than £1.5 billion extra for forces family housing means more than £7 billion to be spent on military accommodation in this Parliament, tackling the poor state of forces accommodation across the country.
    • Record investment builds on the new Defence Consumer Charter to transform living conditions for military families after landmark deal to bring 36,347 homes back into public ownership.
    • New funding will support urgent repairs and long-term renewal of military housing across the nations and regions of the UK.

    Thousands of British military personnel and their families will have their lives improved through more than £1.5 billion of additional funding to improve accommodation for the UK Armed Forces.

    The investment will be confirmed as part of the launch of the Government’s upcoming Strategic Defence Review (SDR), helping renew the nation’s contract with those who serve, supporting the government’s Plan for Change.

    Through the upcoming SDR more than £1.5 billion of new investment into service family accommodation will unlock rapid work to tackle the poor state of forces housing – with investment increasing from this year – helping to support recruitment, retention and morale.

    This will include urgent repairs and maintenance, from fixing unreliable boilers and leaky roofs to tackling damp and mould in service family accommodation, alongside development of new forces housing, as part of unlocking the wider potential for housing development on surplus MOD land.

    The additional funding for accommodation means more than £7 billion will be spent across this Parliament on service family accommodation and new build single living accommodation to deliver a generational renewal of Armed Forces accommodation. This will be guided by the forthcoming Defence Housing Strategy – which is proceeding at pace and has already seen the announcement of a new Consumer Charter to strengthen housing standards for forces families. 

    The SDR will set a path for the next decade to transform defence and make the UK secure at home and strong abroad. It will end the hollowing out of our Armed Forces and make defence an engine for growth across the UK.

    Defence Secretary, John Healey MP said:

    Our Armed Forces personnel make extraordinary sacrifices to serve our country.

    For too long, many military families have lived in sub-standard homes, but this government is taking decisive action to fix the dire state of military accommodation and ensure that our heroes and their loved ones live in the homes they deserve.

    We are investing and acting fast, to fix forces housing and renew the nation’s contract with those who serve and deliver on our Plan for Change.

    The delivery of the Government’s new Consumer Charter will see immediate investment in urgent renovation of 1,000 homes in most need of repair. The Charter will also see basic consumer rights rapidly introduced for forces families, including essential property information and higher move-in standards, more reliable repairs, a named housing officer for every family, and access to a robust complaints system – helping to deliver homes fit for our heroes.

    The record investment follows the Government’s landmark deal to bring back 36,000 military homes into public ownership, as part of the Prime Minister’s pledge to deliver home fit for heroes.

    The SDR will say that the Ministry of Defence should improve the overall standard of military accommodation, including prioritising sites that are in most urgent need of repair. The Terms of Reference for the Review committed to put ‘Defence personnel…at the heart of Defence’s plans.’

    The announcement comes alongside another above-inflation pay rise for the Armed Forces, announced by the Government last week. This is the second inflation busting pay rise awarded by the Government since last July, with last year’s award representing the biggest pay rise for Armed Forces personnel in over 20 years.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Single-use vapes banned from 1 June 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Single-use vapes banned from 1 June 2025

    Under the Government’s Plan for Change, move will stop the flood of litter on to nation’s streets and protect young people from getting hooked on nicotine

    Discarded single-use vape in a field

    Single-use vapes will be banned from the shelves of all shops from tomorrow (Sunday 1 June) thanks to a government blitz on sale and supply.

    The new crackdown makes it illegal to sell single-use vapes at corner shops and supermarkets, putting an end to their alarming rise in school playgrounds and the avalanche of rubbish flooding the nation’s streets.

    The government’s announcement of its intention to ban the use of disposable vapes has already had real effects – with retailers and consumers shifting away from environmentally destructive single-use options.

    New data from charity Action on Smoking and Health shows the number of vapers in Great Britain who mainly use single-use devices fell from 30% in 2024 to 24% in 2025, while the use of disposables by 18-24-year-old vapers fell from 52% in 2024 to 40% in 2025. However, usage among young vapers remains too high and with the coming ban into force tomorrow it will continue to drive these figures down further.

    As part of tough enforcement measures, any rogue traders breaking the rules will be hit with a fine of £200 in the first instance, and all products will be seized. Those who show a blatant disregard for the rules and reoffend face being slapped with an unlimited fine or jail time.

    Circular Economy Minister Mary Creagh said:

    For too long, single-use vapes have blighted our streets as litter and hooked our children on nicotine. That ends today.

    The Government calls time on these nasty devices.

    Caroline Cerny, Deputy Chief Executive, Action on Smoking and Health said:

    It’s promising to see that many people switched away from disposable vapes to re-usable products well ahead of the ban. This is particularly marked among young people, who were more likely to use disposable products due to their attractiveness, affordability, and heavy marketing.

    This new law is a step towards reducing vaping among children, while ensuring products are available to support people to quit smoking. It will be up to manufacturers and retailers to ensure customers are informed and able to reuse and recycle their products securing a real change in consumer behaviour and a reduction in environmental waste. If behaviour does not change then further regulations will be possible following the passage of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill.

    The Government has worked closely with retailers to ensure they are ready for the ban coming into force. This includes producing clear guidance on the devices they cannot sell or supply, as well as how to deplete their stock before 1 June.

    Association of Convenience Stores Chief Executive James Lowman said:

    Convenience retailers have been preparing for the disposables ban for several months, adapting their ranges and training colleagues on the products that they can sell.

    We have been working with Trading Standards officers across the country to ensure they know what to look for once the ban comes into force, and support robust enforcement activity to take illegal vapes off the streets.

    Libby Peake, senior fellow and head of resources at Green Alliance, said:

    Single use vapes should never have been allowed on the market. They’ve been a blight on our countryside, wasted resources needed for important uses like EV batteries and caused scores of fires at waste sites. And they’ve done all this while having a lasting impact on the health of young people, creating a new generation of nicotine addicts.

    The government should rightly be proud of taking this vital step to get rid of these polluting products and encourage people who want to quit smoking to opt for reusable and refillable options instead.

    Justin Greenaway, Commercial Manager at SWEEEP Kuusakoski, said:

    We hope this ban will succeed in reducing the amount of vapes being discarded. Every vape has potential to start a fire if incorrectly disposed of. Logically vape unit waste will reduce as single use stops and multi-use must start but it does rely on consumers changing from a disposable mindset to refilling.

    Unrefillable and unable to be recharged, single-use vapes have been typically thrown away with general waste in black bins or littered rather than recycled, contributing to the flood of litter blighting the country.

    Even when they are recycled, the process is notoriously arduous, slow and costly, with waste industry workers required to take them apart by hand. Their batteries also present a fire risk to recycling facilities and can leak harmful chemicals into the environment.

    With the looming ban already encouraging users to seek alternatives, making the sale of single-use vapes illegal will now prevent these toxic products from littering the country’s streets.

    The ban complements the Government’s world-leading Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which will further tackle youth vaping and safeguard children’s health.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New Orleans Man Sentenced to 5 Years of Probation for Cares Act Fraud, Money Laundering and False Tax Filing

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEW ORLEANS – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that CLIFTON C. JAMES (“JAMES”), age 50, of New Orleans, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jane Triche-Milazzo to 5 years of probation for making false statements, theft of government funds, and money laundering related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), as well as making a false tax filing with the Internal Revenue Service.

    On March 27, 2020, the President of the United States signed into law the CARES Act, which provided emergency assistance, administered by the United States Small Business Administration (SBA), to small business owners affected by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.  The two primary sources of funding for small businesses were the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and the Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) program.

    According to the charging documents, or about April 30, 2020, JAMES, on behalf of a business that he owned, made false statements to an approved lender to obtain a $86,800 PPP loan.  On or about July 13, 2020, JAMES stole $149,900 from the SBA by using a false application in the name of Crescent City Tax Services, LLC.  JAMES then committed money laundering by using these ill-gotten funds to buy an automobile from a dealership in California.  Lastly, JAMES  filed a false document with the Internal Revenue Service wherein he claimed to have earned $1.00 in a 2019 tax return.

    In addition to probation, JAMES was ordered to perform 50 hours of community service and to pay restitution in the amount of $551,973.00 to the SBA along with restitution to the IRS in the total amount of $233,645.65.  There is also a mandatory $400 special assessment fee.

    For more information on the Department of Justice’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.  Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

    This case was investigated by an agent assigned to the Pandemic Response Accountability Committee (PRAC) Fraud Task Force.  The PRAC was established to serve the American public by promoting transparency and facilitating coordinated oversight of the federal government’s COVID-19 pandemic response.  The PRAC’s 21 member Inspectors General identify major risks that cross program and agency boundaries to detect fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement in the more than $5 trillion in COVID-19 spending.  The PRAC Fraud Task Force brings together agents from 15 Inspectors General to investigate fraud involving a variety of programs, including the Paycheck Protection Program.  Task force agents who are detailed to the PRAC receive expanded authority to investigate pandemic fraud as well as tools and training to support their investigations.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs – Office of Inspector General (a member of the PRAC) and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation in investigating this matter.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward J. Rivera of the Financial Crimes Unit was in charge of the prosecution.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Three Admit to Roles in Drug Trafficking Organization

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

    MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Three people have admitted to working in a large-scale drug operation in Berkeley and Jefferson Counties.  

    Juan Carlos Suarez-Lugo, age 55, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, and Alexis Alvarado, age 38, of Ranson, West Virginia, each pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. Mauricio Antonio Alvarado-Flores, age 38, a citizen of El Salvador, pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and illegal reentry.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, Suarez-Lugo, Alvarado, and Alvarado-Flores were working together and with others to sell drugs for the drug trafficking organization.

    Suarez-Lugo, Alvarado, and Alvarado-Flores each face at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison for the drug charge. Alvarado-Flores faces up to two years in prison for the illegal reentry charge. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government.

    The Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force was the lead investigative unit. Other investigative agencies that assisted include the Federal Bureau of Investigation, including the Pittsburgh, San Francisco, San Juan, and Philadelphia Field Offices; United States Marshals Service; Homeland Security Investigations; United States Postal Service; Drug Enforcement Administration, the Louisville and Chicago Divisions; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; West Virginia State Police; Martinsburg Police Department; Ranson Police Department; Charles Town Police Department; Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office; Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office; West Virginia Air National Guard; Mineral County Sheriff’s Office; Grant County Sheriff’s Office; Hampshire County Sheriff’s Department; Keyser Police Department; Northwest Regional Drug Task Force, Virginia; Pennsylvania State Police; Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania; Winchester Police Department, Virginia; Frederick County Sheriff’s Office, Virginia; Virginia State Police; Sunnyvale Police Department, California. 

    U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Advancing North American energy dominance

    Joined by Parliamentary Secretary Chantelle de Jonge, the delegation will showcase Alberta’s position as a leader in responsible energy development in Washington, D.C.

    While in the U.S. capital from June 2-7, Alberta’s delegations will meet with industry leaders, technology innovators and American government officials to advance partnerships and lay the foundation for advancing North American energy dominance and alleviating global energy poverty.

    They will leverage their attendance at the Energy Council’s 2025 Federal Energy and Environmental Matters Conference, the U.S. Energy Streams 10th Washington Energy Forum and the S&P Global Oil Sands Dialogue to support Alberta in becoming a major global energy supplier.

    This mission comes at an important time in Alberta’s relationship with the U.S., as we work to broaden our trade partnerships globally and navigate complex geopolitical environments.

    “While Alberta seeks to enter new global markets, we know that the U.S. remains our largest trading partner, and we believe that through advocacy – this important relationship can and will be maintained. Alberta’s energy future is unstoppable and has a key role to play in helping the U.S. meet its growing energy needs and global energy dominance ambition in a secure and reliable way unmatched by any other energy partner.”

    Danielle Smith, Premier

    “The world needs more of Alberta’s oil, gas and minerals to meet ever evolving energy needs and reduce reliance on products from conflict zones. Alberta can play a crucial role in advancing North American energy dominance and we will work on the partnerships that will lead to a secure energy future.”

    Brian Jean, Minister of Energy and Minerals

    “Alberta’s competitive electricity market and business-friendly environment make our province a destination of choice for investors and a leader in innovative technologies. I am proud to carry that message to our partners south of the border as we continue to build our energy future.”

    Nathan Neudorf, Minister of Affordability and Utilities

    “Alberta is a global leader in responsible energy development. I look forward to working with our U.S. partners to advance new opportunities in our energy sector that will reap benefits on both sides of the border.”

    Chantelle de Jonge, parliamentary secretary for Affordability and Utilities

    This mission builds on the success of CERAWeek in March and is part of Alberta’s continued efforts to promote our vast resource base and responsible energy sector and increase market access for the province’s ethically produced energy, both traditional and emerging.

    Trip expenses for elected officials and staff will be posted on the travel and expense disclosure page.

    Alberta’s government is committed to working with national and international partners to advance shared interests that can lead to new opportunities for people and businesses in Alberta and around the world. By working with industry, researchers and other governments, Alberta is implementing its Emissions Reduction and Energy Development Plan and offering a business-friendly environment primed for investment and growth.

    Itinerary for Premier Smith*

    June 3
    • Travel to Washington, D.C.
    • Meeting with industry partners
    • Attend U.S. Energy Streams 10th Washington Energy Forum Welcome Reception

    June 4
    • Deliver keynote address at day one of the U.S. Energy Streams 10th Washington Energy Forum
    • Bilateral meetings with U.S. legislators
    • Return to Alberta

    *Subject to change.

    Itinerary for Minister Jean*

    June 1
    • Travel to Washington, D.C.

    June 2
    • Minister speaking at CGAI-AmCham Canada Event: Washington DC Natural Gas Dialogue 

    June 3
    • Minister to attend S&P Global Oil Sands Dialogue
    • Participate in panel discussion: The future of North American oil integration
    • U.S. Energy Stream Summit Welcome Reception

    June 4
    • Attending day one of the U.S. Energy Stream Summit

    June 5
    • Day two of the U.S. Energy Stream Summit
    • Minister attending welcome reception for the Energy Council’s 2025 Federal Energy and Environmental Matters Conference

    June 6
    • Minister delivering keynote address at The Energy Council’s 2025 Federal Energy and Environmental Matters Conference
    • Meetings with elected officials

    June 7
    • Travel to return to Edmonton

    *Subject to change.

    Itinerary for Minister Neudorf*

    June 4
    • Travel to Washington, D.C.

    June 5-6
    • Attend the Energy Council’s 2025 Federal Energy and Environmental Matters Conference

    June 7
    • Attend the Energy Council’s 2025 Federal Energy and Environmental Matters Conference
    • Return to Alberta

    *Subject to change.

    Itinerary for Parliamentary Secretary de Jonge*

    June 4
    • Travel to Washington, D.C.

    June 5-7
    • Attend the Energy Council’s 2025 Federal Energy and Environmental Matters Conference

    June 8
    • Personal time

    June 9
    • Return to Alberta

    *Subject to change.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Q&A: Big, Beautiful Bill Comes to the Senate

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
    Q: What is the Big, Beautiful Bill Act?
    A: The House of Representatives passed a 1,000-plus page bill in May that includes key measures to enact President Trump’s domestic policy agenda, including a once-in-a-generation opportunity to cut government bloat and prevent the biggest tax hike in American history.  The package also boosts resources for the military, beefs up border security and unleashes American energy to help fuel economic growth. Now, the sausage-making gets underway in the U.S. Senate. Unlike in the House of Representatives, deliberations in the Senate must abide by specific rules that apply to a reconciliation package. Those parameters include a fast-track process that requires only 51 Senate votes instead of 60; and the bill also must directly impact federal spending or taxes. I’ll be giving a thorough scrubbing to the legislation, including its impact on the farm safety net and food stamp (SNAP) program and efforts to root out waste, fraud and abuse in health care.
    Q: What is the Byrd rule?
    A: The Byrd rule is named after former Sen. Robert Byrd of West Virginia, who was long recognized as the “conscience of the Senate” for his deep-seated commitment to parliamentary procedures to protect the institutional role of the Senate in our system of checks and balances. The Byrd rule sets restrictions on reconciliation legislation considered in the Senate and was included unanimously in a federal budget law adopted 40 years ago and made permanent in 1990.
    Reconciliation legislation is used to change revenue and mandatory spending levels within budget resolution policies using an expedited timeline. Unlike the House of Representatives, debate in the Senate is limited to 20 hours and amendments must be germane. The Byrd rule was adopted to preserve the deliberative nature of the Senate and protect the integrity of the reconciliation process. It prevents abusive efforts to circumvent the process with non-budgetary policy matters that ought to be considered under regular order. For example, the Senate Democrat Majority tried to use the reconciliation process to ram through mass amnesty for illegal immigrants. This massive policy proposal failed to pass the Byrd rule.
    The Byrd rule allows any senator to raise a point of order against non-budgetary matters in a reconciliation bill. If a point of order is sustained, the provision is removed from the underlying legislation. An effort to waive the Byrd rule requires approval from three-fifths of the Senate. Over the years, the Byrd rule has created friction between the House and Senate. Don’t forget, the founders intentionally created a bicameral legislature to guarantee the rights of the minority party. The rules of the Senate are built around consensus, as opposed to the House of Representatives where the majority party dominates. As the story goes, George Washington told Thomas Jefferson that “we pour legislation into the senatorial saucer to cool it.” Keeping intact the institutional role of the Senate is an important check in our separation of powers. The Byrd rule is one of those pillars that prevents unrelated legislative agendas from evading Senate deliberation. Whereas the House had a tough row to hoe to pass the reconciliation package, the Senate has an even narrower row to cultivate to get to the finish line.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: MADE IN THE USA: President Trump’s Vision is Revitalizing American Industry

    Source: US Whitehouse

    President Donald J. Trump heads to Pennsylvania today, where he’ll champion the partnership he brokered between U.S. Steel and Nippon Steel — a $14 billion investment that will create at least 70,000 jobs and ensure steel is made in America for decades to come.

    AMERICAN JOBS, AMERICAN STEEL.

    The landmark agreement comes alongside a host of companies from across industries that are onshoring their production and investing in American manufacturing as President Trump relentlessly pursues his America First trade policies.

    Look no further than the automotive industry:

    • Stellantis announced a $5 billion investment in its U.S. manufacturing network, including re-opening its Belvidere, Illinois, plant and a $388 “megahub” in Detroit, Michigan.
    • General Motors announced an $888 million investment at its propulsion plant in Tonawanda, New York.
    • Volkswagen is planning to make a “massive” investment in its U.S. production.
    • Toyota announced it will boost hybrid vehicle production at its West Virginia plant.
    • Mercedes-Benz announced it will add a new vehicle to its Tuscaloosa, Alabama, manufacturing plant.
    • Honda plans to shift production of the Civic from Japan to the U.S.
    • Hyundai announced a $20 billion investment to support its U.S. vehicle production.
    • Kia plans to produce hybrid vehicles at its affiliate Hyundai’s Georgia factory.

    It’s not just the auto industry; scores of others are lining up to invest in America:

    • Project Stargate, led by Japan-based Softbank and U.S.-based OpenAI and Oracle, announced a $500 billion private investment in U.S.-based artificial intelligence infrastructure.
    • Apple announced a $500 billion investment in U.S. manufacturing and training.
    • NVIDIA, a global chipmaking giant, announced it will invest $500 billion in U.S.-based AI infrastructure over the next four years amid its pledge to manufacture AI supercomputers entirely in the U.S. for the first time.
    • IBM announced a $150 billion investment over the next five years in its U.S.-based growth and manufacturing operations.
    • Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) announced a $100 billion investment in U.S.-based chips manufacturing.
    • Johnson & Johnson announced a $55 billion investment over the next four years in manufacturing, research and development, and technology.
    • Roche, a Swiss drug and diagnostics company, announced a $50 billion investment in U.S.-based manufacturing and research and development, which is expected to create more than 12,000 jobs.
    • Bristol Myers Squibb announced a $40 billion investment over the next five years in its research, development, technology, and U.S.-based manufacturing operations.
    • Eli Lilly and Company announced a $27 billion investment to more than double its domestic manufacturing capacity.
    • United Arab Emirates-based ADQ and U.S.-based Energy Capital Partners announced a $25 billion investment in U.S. data centers and energy infrastructure.
    • Novartis, a Swiss drugmaker, announced a $23 billion investment to build or expand ten manufacturing facilities across the U.S., which will create 4,000 new jobs.
    • John Deere announced plans to invest $20 billion over the next decade in American expansion, production, and manufacturing.
    • United Arab Emirates-based DAMAC Properties announced a $20 billion investment in new U.S.-based data centers.
    • France-based CMA CGM, a global shipping giant, announced a $20 billion investment in U.S. shipping and logistics, creating 10,000 new jobs.
    • Sanofi announced it will invest at least $20 billion over the next five years in manufacturing and research and development.
    • Venture Global LNG announced an $18 billion investment at its liquefied natural gas facility in Louisiana.
    • Gilead Sciences announced an $11 billion boost to its planned U.S.-based manufacturing investment.
    • AbbVie announced a $10 billion investment over the next ten years to support volume growth and add four new manufacturing plants to its network.
    • Pratt Industries announced a $5 billion investment to create 5,000 new manufacturing jobs in Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Arizona.
    • GlobalWafers, a Taiwanese silicon wafer manufacturer, announced a $4 billion investment in its U.S.-based production.
    • Thermo Fisher Scientific announced it will invest an additional $2 billion over the next four years to enhance and expand its U.S. manufacturing operations and strengthen its innovation efforts.
    • Merck & Co. announced it will invest a total of $9 billion in the U.S. over the next several years after opening a new $1 billion North Carolina manufacturing facility — including in a new state-of-the-art biologics manufacturing plant in Delaware, which will create at least 500 new jobs.
    • Clarios announced a $6 billion plan to expand its domestic manufacturing operations.
    • In addition to its overall investments, Amazon announced it is investing $4 billion in small towns across America, creating more than 100,000 new jobs and driving opportunities across the country.
    • Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, a leader in biotechnology, announced a $3 billion agreement with Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies to produce drugs at its North Carolina manufacturing facility.
    • Kraft Heinz announced a $3 billion investment to upgrade its U.S. factories — its largest investment in its plants in decades.
    • NorthMark Strategies, a multi-strategy investment firm, announced a $2.8 billion investment to build a supercomputing facility in South Carolina.
    • Kimberly-Clark announced a $2 billion investment to expand its U.S. manufacturing operations, including a new advanced manufacturing facility in Warren, Ohio, an expansion of its Beech Island, South Carolina, facility, and other upgrades to its supply chain network.
    • Chobani, a Greek yogurt giant, announced $1.7 billion to expand its U.S. operations.
      • $1.2 billion to build its third U.S. dairy processing plant in New York, which is expected to create more than 1,000 new full-time jobs.
    • Corning announced it is expanding its Michigan manufacturing facility investment to $1.5 billion, adding 400 new high-paying advanced manufacturing jobs for a total of 1,500 new jobs.
    • Carrier announced an additional $1 billion investment in its U.S. manufacturing, innovation, and workforce expansion, which is expected to create 4,000 new jobs.
    • GE Aerospace announced a $1 billion investment in manufacturing across 16 states — creating 5,000 new jobs.
    • Anduril Industries announced a $1 billion investment for a new autonomous weapon system facility in Ohio.
    • Williams International announced a $1 billion investment for a new high-volume aviation gas turbine engine manufacturing facility in Okaloosa County, Florida.
    • Amgen announced a $900 million investment in its Ohio-based manufacturing operation.
    • Merck Animal Health announced an $895 million investment to expand their manufacturing operations in Kansas.
    • Schneider Electric announced it will invest $700 million over the next four years in U.S. energy infrastructure.
    • GE Vernova announced it will invest nearly $600 million in U.S. manufacturing over the next two years, which will create more than 1,500 new jobs.
    • Abbott Laboratories announced a $500 million investment in its Illinois and Texas facilities.
    • AIP Management, a European infrastructure investor, announced a $500 million investment to solar developer Silicon Ranch.
    • London-based Diageo announced a $415 million investment in a new Alabama manufacturing facility.
    • Lego announced a $366 million investment to build a new distribution center in Prince George County, Virginia.
    • The Bel Group announced a $350 million investment to expand its U.S.-based production, including at its South Dakota, Idaho and Wisconsin facilities — which will create 250 new jobs.
    • Dublin-based Eaton Corporation announced a $340 million investment in a new South Carolina-based manufacturing facility for its three-phase transformers.
    • Anheuser-Busch announced a $300 million investment in its manufacturing facilities across the country.
    • Germany-based Siemens announced a $285 million investment in U.S. manufacturing and AI data centers, which will create more than 900 new skilled manufacturing jobs.
    • Clasen Quality Chocolate announced a $230 million investment to build a new production facility in Virginia, which will create 250 new jobs.
    • Fiserv, Inc., a financial technology provider, announced a $175 million investment to open a new strategic fintech hub in Kansas, which is expected to create 2,000 new high-paying jobs.
    • Paris Baguette announced a $160 million investment to construct a manufacturing plant in Texas.
    • Siemens Healthineers announced a $150 million investment to expand production, including relocating manufacturing operations for its Varian company from Mexico to California. 
    • JBS USA announced a $135 million investment for a new sausage production facility in Perry, Iowa.
    • TS Conductor announced a $134 million investment to build an advanced conductor manufacturing facility in South Carolina, which will create nearly 500 new jobs.
    • Switzerland-based ABB announced a $120 million investment to expand production of its low-voltage electrification products in Tennessee and Mississippi.
    • Saica Group, a Spain-based corrugated packaging maker, announced plans to build a $110 million new manufacturing facility in Anderson, Indiana.
    • Hotpack, a Dubai-based maker of food packaging materials and related products, announced a $100 million investment to establish its first U.S. manufacturing facility in Edison, New Jersey.
    • Charms, LLC, a subsidiary of candymaker Tootsie Roll Industries, announced a $97.7 million investment to expand its production plant and distribution center in Tennessee.
    • Toyota Motor Corporation announced an $88 million investment to boost hybrid vehicle production at its West Virginia factory, securing employment for the 2,000 workers at the factory.
    • AeroVironment, a defense contractor, announced a $42.3 million investment to build a new manufacturing facility in Utah.
    • Paris-based Saint-Gobain announced a new $40 million NorPro manufacturing facility in Wheatfield, New York.
    • India-based Sygene International announced a $36.5 million acquisition of a Baltimore biologics manufacturing facility.
    • Asahi Group Holdings, one of the largest Japanese beverage makers, announced a $35 million investment to boost production at its Wisconsin plant.
    • Valbruna Slater Stainless announced a $28 million investment in its stainless steel and nickel alloys bars manufacturing plant in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
    • Cyclic Materials, a Canadian advanced recycling company for rare earth elements, announced a $20 million investment in its first U.S.-based commercial facility, located in Mesa, Arizona.
    • Guardian Bikes announced a $19 million investment to build the first U.S.-based large-scale bicycle frame manufacturing operation in Indiana.
    • Amsterdam-based AMG Critical Minerals announced a $15 million investment to build a chrome manufacturing facility in Pennsylvania.
    • NOVONIX Limited, an Australia-based battery technology company, announced a $4.6 million investment to build a synthetic graphite manufacturing facility in Tennessee.
    • LGM Pharma announced a $6 million investment to expand its manufacturing facility in Rosenberg, Texas.
    • ViDARR, a defense optical equipment manufacturer, announced a $2.69 million investment to open a new facility in Virginia.

    That doesn’t even include the U.S. investments planned by foreign countries:

    • United Arab Emirates committed to investing $1.4 trillion in the U.S. over the next decade.
    • Qatar committed to generating $1.2 trillion in an economic exchange between the two countries.
    • Japan announced a $1 trillion investment in the U.S.
    • Saudi Arabia committed investing $600 billion in the U.S. over the next four years.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko: The results of the final of the Professionals championship in creative industries and IT were summed up in Nizhny Novgorod

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Dmitry Chernyshenko and Minister of Education Sergey Kravtsov took part in the award ceremony for the finalists of the Professionals championship in Nizhny Novgorod

    May 30, 2025

    Dmitry Chernyshenko took part in the award ceremony for the finalists of the Professionals championship in Nizhny Novgorod

    May 30, 2025

    Governor of the Nizhny Novgorod Region Gleb Nikitin during the award ceremony for the finalists of the Professionals professional skills championship in Nizhny Novgorod

    May 30, 2025

    Dmitry Chernyshenko took part in the award ceremony for the finalists of the Professionals championship in Nizhny Novgorod

    May 30, 2025

    The final of the All-Russian championship in professional skills “Professionals” in the competencies of creative industries and information technologies in Nizhny Novgorod

    May 30, 2025

    The final of the All-Russian championship in professional skills “Professionals” in the competencies of creative industries and information technologies in Nizhny Novgorod

    May 30, 2025

    The final of the All-Russian championship in professional skills “Professionals” in the competencies of creative industries and information technologies in Nizhny Novgorod

    May 30, 2025

    The final of the All-Russian championship in professional skills “Professionals” in the competencies of creative industries and information technologies in Nizhny Novgorod

    May 30, 2025

    The final of the All-Russian championship in professional skills “Professionals” in the competencies of creative industries and information technologies in Nizhny Novgorod

    May 30, 2025

    The final of the All-Russian championship in professional skills “Professionals” in the competencies of creative industries and information technologies in Nizhny Novgorod

    May 30, 2025

    Previous news Next news

    Dmitry Chernyshenko and Minister of Education Sergey Kravtsov took part in the award ceremony for the finalists of the Professionals championship in Nizhny Novgorod

    The final of the All-Russian Championship of Professional Skills “Professionals” in creative industries and information technology competencies has ended in Nizhny Novgorod. Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko, Minister of Education Sergey Kravtsov, and Governor of the Nizhny Novgorod Region Gleb Nikitin took part in the award ceremony.

    Dmitry Chernyshenko read out a greeting from Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin.

    “Today, Nizhny Novgorod has become a center of attraction for talented young men and women from different Russian regions and foreign countries. At the unique site of the federal technology park, college, technical school and school students were able to demonstrate their skills and ability to solve problems of any complexity. Excellent preparation and strong character allowed you to get ahead of your rivals and prove that you are the best in your field. The all-Russian championship movement is growing in our country from year to year. Competitions give participants an impetus for personal and professional growth, help to reveal their abilities, implement bold plans and projects, and the performances are an example for many young people who want to work in the creative industries and information technology,” Mikhail Mishustin noted in his welcoming speech.

    Dmitry Chernyshenko also congratulated the participants and wished them success in their endeavors and professional growth.

    “Dear friends, I would like to send my personal wishes of happiness, goodness and gratitude to all participants. We had the opportunity to communicate with some of you in the wonderful space of the technology park, to see cool specialists, wonderful mentors, interested employers. Search, try, you will succeed, you are all definitely winners. The country is proud of you, you are the best, everyone will look up to you. Good luck!” – said the Deputy Prime Minister.

    24 participants became winners in the main and junior standings, 48 participants became prize winners. In addition, winners and prize winners were announced in the international, industrial and team standings.

    “Dear children, I would like to congratulate all the finalists and especially thank your parents, teachers and mentors. Today, thanks to them, you are in this room. Representatives of your future employers – large enterprises – are also present here. They watch and choose the best of the best. Today, secondary vocational education is developing, and it is in great demand. The President of Russia pays great attention to the training of workers. The “Professionality” project, organized on his instructions, has become a real driver of the development of our country’s economy,” said Sergey Kravtsov.

    The head of the Ministry of Education emphasized that for the first time in Nizhny Novgorod the final of the Professionals championship is being held, he addressed words of gratitude to the team of the Nizhny Novgorod region for the brilliant organization of the event.

    The final of the professional skills championship “Professionals” was held for a week in the Federal Technopark of Professional Education, created on the basis of the property complex “Nizhpoligraf” within the framework of the federal project “Professionalism” of the national project “Youth and Children”.

    “I would like to express my admiration for the young people who have gathered in Nizhny Novgorod these days from all over the country. It is breathtaking what you can do in your fields at the age of fourteen, fifteen, sixteen. I wish you to dare, to conquer the whole world, to climb Everest with the flag of our state in your hands, to remain true Russians who love their country in any situation. Great achievements to you, interesting ideas, business startups! We will be rooting for you. A special source of pride for me is that Nizhny Novgorod is hosting the Professionals championship. This became possible thanks to the faith in our region on the part of the Ministry of Education of the Russian Federation and Sergei Sergeevich Kravtsov. Many thanks to Deputy Prime Minister of Russia Dmitry Nikolaevich Chernyshenko, whom I can rightfully call a friend of the Nizhny Novgorod Region. He oversees the Volga Federal District and actively promotes the development of our region,” said Gleb Nikitin.

    In 2025, competitions were held in Nizhny Novgorod in 15 competencies, 10 of which were new for the final. The organizer of the championship is the Ministry of Education of Russia with the support of the Government of the Russian Federation.

    In the main classification, college and technical school students (category “Main”), schoolchildren aged 14 and over (category “Juniors”) competed. Young specialists from specialized industries competed in the industrial classification, and representatives of foreign countries – in the international classification.

    Among the 195 contestants are representatives of 46 regions of Russia and 6 friendly countries.

    Over the course of three days, the competition was held in an individual format, and on the last day – for the first time in the history of the championship – in a team format.

    More than 50 enterprises representing specialized industries became partners of the final.

    The Professionals Championship is the largest event in the system of secondary vocational education, the list of competencies is formed in accordance with the demands of the real sector of the economy. In 2025, the championship final will be held in three cities. In Nizhny Novgorod – in creative industries and IT, in Kaluga – in industrial technology competencies, in St. Petersburg – in education and service competencies. Winners and prize-winners get the opportunity to undergo an internship with major employers in the industry with subsequent employment.

    The championship final is held within the framework of the All-Russian championship movement in professional skills “Professionals”.

    The events of the All-Russian Championship Movement for Professional Skills “Professionals” unite over 1 million people in all regions of the country. This is more than 300 thousand contestants, as well as expert mentors, chief experts, competency managers, industry representatives, participants in business and career guidance programs, volunteers. The championships serve as a platform for exchanging experience, broadcasting industry requests to the education system, and also a place for employers and young specialists to meet.

    Dmitry Chernyshenko, Sergey Kravtsov and Gleb Nikitin also visited the Federal Technopark of Professional Education in Nizhny Novgorod, where the final of the All-Russian Championship in Professional Skills was held. The Technopark was created within the framework of the federal project “Professionalism” in accordance with the instructions of President Vladimir Putin. This is a joint project of the Ministry of Education and the Government of the Nizhny Novgorod Region.

    The Deputy Prime Minister, the Minister and the Governor assessed the venues where the competitions are taking place, and they also talked to the finalists and experts of the championship. The guys shared their impressions of participating in the competitions, talked about their competencies and preparation for the finals.

    It is planned that the Federal Technopark of Professional Education will become a center for advanced training of secondary vocational education teachers. As part of the creation of the technopark, premises for 21 laboratories have been prepared in three buildings (B1, B2 and D). In total, 43 equipped laboratories and workshops in more than 50 competencies in 9 priority industries are planned to be created on the territory of the Nizhpoligraf property complex.

    In addition to the buildings of the Federal Technopark of Professional Education, the guests were presented with the general project of the Park of Masters “Nizhpoligraf”. In 2023, the property complex was transferred to regional ownership and gained a new life. The facades of the buildings, utilities and internal structures were updated, the territory was landscaped.

    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 –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Denis Manturov launched the production of a new Sollers car model and donated a bus to a large family from Ingushetia

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Denis Manturov, as part of a working visit to Tatarstan, took part in the launch ceremony of the new generation Sollers SF5 light commercial vehicle production

    May 30, 2025

    Denis Manturov handed over a Sollers Atlant bus to a large family from Ingushetia via videoconference at the plant site

    May 30, 2025

    Denis Manturov took part in the launch ceremony of the new generation Sollers SF5 light commercial vehicles

    May 30, 2025

    Denis Manturov took part in the ceremony of launching the production of the new generation light commercial vehicles Sollers SF5

    May 30, 2025

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    Denis Manturov, as part of a working visit to Tatarstan, took part in the launch ceremony of the new generation Sollers SF5 light commercial vehicle production

    First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov, as part of a working visit to Tatarstan, together with the head of the republic Rustam Minnikhanov, took part in the ceremony of launching the production of the new generation Sollers SF5 light commercial vehicles. In addition, Denis Manturov, via videoconference at the plant site, handed over a Sollers Atlant bus to a large family from Ingushetia, with whom Russian President Vladimir Putin had spoken the day before.

    Sollers SF5 is the first Russian car of its class, serially equipped with an automatic transmission. It is produced using full-cycle technology, equipped with a fully localized diesel engine with a volume of 2.7 liters and a power of 150 hp, corresponding to the environmental standard “Euro-5”. Already at the stage of launching production, components of Russian manufacture are installed on Sollers SF5. It is planned that by the end of this year the level of localization of the new model will be 70%.

    “Sollers is taking a responsible approach to fulfilling its obligations, which were included in the special investment contract at the initial stage, and is gradually developing a new product range. Not long ago, last year, we launched the production of tourist buses in the Far East, before that – the previous generation of the Atlanta. I am confident that Sollers, both at other sites and in Alabuga, will confidently expand its product range, model range, increase the level of localization, and also provide work for other enterprises in the automotive component industry. In recent years, the automotive component industry has received a new lease of life in the development of the production of units and components. And Sollers is actively contributing to this, providing workload and orders to a wide range of Russian companies in this sector,” the First Deputy Prime Minister noted.

    “For 20 years, Sollers has been a strategic partner of Tatarstan. Today, the company continues to increase its market share, engage in localization and launch new products. Today, we are meeting another model. We sincerely thank the Government of Russia for supporting our car manufacturers and assisting in the implementation of promising investment projects. Stable operation of enterprises is the key to guaranteed good wages and decent working conditions,” said Rustam Minnikhanov.

    Denis Manturov handed over a 16-seat Sollers Atlant bus to a large family from Ingushetia via videoconference. Earlier, the family of Beslan Ruslanbekovich Bogolov and Maryam Khazhbikarovna Khamkhoeva, who are raising 11 children, asked Russian President Vladimir Putin to assist in purchasing comfortable transport for family trips. The President said that assistance would be provided, and today this informal order was fulfilled.

    Denis Manturov congratulated Maryam Khazhbikarovna on being awarded the title of “Mother Heroine”: “Even raising one child is a huge responsibility and noble work. And you have 10 boys and a girl, so raising them on their feet is definitely not an easy task. You are doing it – and this is truly a parental feat worthy of the deepest respect. The state has a special place for such families. Our President directs all authorities to prioritize support for those whose home is full of love, care and children’s voices.”

    As the First Deputy Prime Minister emphasized, the family will receive new transport within a week. “I hope that with its help you will show the children the beauty of the Caucasus. And it will be easier to solve everyday issues,” Denis Manturov added.

    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 –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko assessed the work of educational and scientific institutions in Nizhny Novgorod

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Dmitry Chernyshenko’s working visit to Nizhny Novgorod. The Deputy Prime Minister spoke with students and teachers at the Nizhny Novgorod Automotive Technical School

    May 30, 2025

    Dmitry Chernyshenko’s working visit to Nizhny Novgorod. At the Nizhny Novgorod Automotive Technical School

    May 30, 2025

    Dmitry Chernyshenko’s working visit to Nizhny Novgorod. Pilot production of ultra-pure materials for microelectronics at the Nizhny Novgorod State University named after N.I. Lobachevsky

    May 30, 2025

    Dmitry Chernyshenko’s working visit to Nizhny Novgorod. Deputy Prime Minister and Gleb Nikitin sealed time capsules with messages to future generations from the Governments of the country and the region

    May 30, 2025

    Dmitry Chernyshenko’s working visit to Nizhny Novgorod. The Deputy Prime Minister assessed the site where the first stage of the IT campus is currently being completed – 18 student hotels

    May 30, 2025

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    Dmitry Chernyshenko’s working visit to Nizhny Novgorod. The Deputy Prime Minister spoke with students and teachers at the Nizhny Novgorod Automotive Technical School

    During his working visit to the Nizhny Novgorod Region, Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko visited a number of educational and scientific institutions.

    In particular, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Education of Russia Sergey Kravtsov and Governor of Nizhny Novgorod Region Gleb Nikitin assessed the organization of the process of conducting the state final certification of schoolchildren. They visited one of the points where the Unified State Exam is held – at School No. 111 in Nizhny Novgorod, where the Russian language exam is being held for more than 200 children.

    Dmitry Chernyshenko noted that the main stage of the Unified State Exam began on May 23 in all 89 regions of Russia and 55 foreign countries. Today, the Unified State Exam in Russian is taking place – this is the most massive exam, with more than 640 thousand people registered to take it on the main day.

    During the trip, Dmitry Chernyshenko, Sergey Kravtsov and Gleb Nikitin assessed how the security point works and how security measures are organized at the exam point, and also watched the broadcast from other exam points in different regions. The school also demonstrated how work is organized at the headquarters of the exam point.

    “The procedure for the Unified State Exam has been streamlined in our country over the years and is conducted at the highest level. All assignments are printed directly in the classroom and transmitted in encrypted form, which completely eliminates the possibility of leaks. This is a unique technology that has no analogues in any country in the world. It guarantees absolute transparency and objectivity of the exam, providing equal conditions for all graduates. This year, more than 700 thousand are taking the Unified State Exam. In general, the exam is held in the normal mode, we will do everything possible to ensure that schoolchildren receive their results as soon as possible,” said Sergey Kravtsov.

    According to Gleb Nikitin, this year the region has organized 91 exam centers, which operate on the basis of educational organizations. The exam centers are equipped with video surveillance, metal detectors and mobile phone jammers. This is the most important condition for organizing high-quality and objective state final certification of school graduates.

    In addition, Dmitry Chernyshenko, together with Governor Gleb Nikitin, visited the world-class IT campus “Neimark”, the Nizhny Novgorod State University named after N.I. Lobachevsky (NNSU) and the Nizhny Novgorod Automotive Technical School.

    “A world-class inter-university campus is being created in Nizhny Novgorod, thanks to which new technologies will be developed. They will be aimed at achieving the national goal set by President Vladimir Putin – technological leadership, and will also be useful for the colleges of the federal project “Professionality”, – said Dmitry Chernyshenko.

    The Deputy Prime Minister assessed the site where the first stage of the IT campus is currently being completed – 18 student hostels. The work is being carried out under the federal project “Creating a Network of Modern Campuses” of the national project “Youth and Children”. It is planned that the first guests of the new complex will be participants of the World Youth Festival, which will be held in Nizhny Novgorod from September 17 to 21, 2025 and will bring together young people from Russia and foreign countries. Students of the Neimark University will move into the buildings from October.

    Dmitry Chernyshenko and Gleb Nikitin sealed time capsules with messages to future generations from the governments of the country and the region. In particular, they emphasized that the IT campus in Nizhny Novgorod is not just a complex of buildings or a university, but a growth point for new meanings and technologies. These capsules will be given to the builders, they will be laid in the foundation of one of the IT campus facilities under construction.

    According to Gleb Nikitin, the Nizhny Novgorod Region is one of Russia’s IT centers. The region is home to offices of about 2,000 companies working in the field of information and information and communication technologies.

    “The industry currently employs about 38 thousand people, and even taking into account such an impressive figure, there is a shortage of personnel. In this situation, the implementation of the Neimark IT campus project is of strategic importance to us. It is important that the Neimark University began its educational activities in advance, last year, under two programs. Starting this year, training will be conducted under five programs, which were developed jointly with leading universities of the Nizhny Novgorod Region,” said Gleb Nikitin.

    At UNN, Dmitry Chernyshenko assessed the pilot production of ultra-pure materials for microelectronics. At Lobachevsky University in Nizhny Novgorod, they plan to implement a full production cycle for high-purity substances. The project “Development of technologies for obtaining ultra-pure substances for the needs of the microelectronic industry and low-tonnage chemistry” is being implemented within the framework of the Priority-2030 program. The university also continues to conduct developments within the framework of advanced engineering schools aimed at creating space communications systems, radar, as well as developing a new component base and materials for microelectronics.

    The Deputy Prime Minister was told about the university’s advanced developments in the field of artificial intelligence, aimed at developing health-saving technologies, increasing life expectancy, improving cognitive health and active longevity, as well as about developments in the field of neuromorphic and quantum technologies of artificial and hybrid intelligence and their implementation in the real sector of the economy.

    At the Nizhny Novgorod Automotive Technical School (NAMT), Dmitry Chernyshenko talked to students and teachers. In particular, the ambassadors of “Professionalitet” answered the questions of the Deputy Prime Minister and described how they help schoolchildren with career guidance. And student Violetta Chernutskaya spoke about her career choice and explained why girls should learn to work on a lathe.

    Since 2022, NAMT has been the center of the educational and production cluster “Mechanical Engineering” within the framework of the federal project “Professionality” of the national project “Youth and Children”. Within the framework of the project, new educational laboratories in mechatronics and robotics, industrial automation, automated design of technological processes were created. In total, the cluster “Mechanical Engineering” covers over 1.3 thousand students of six educational institutions of the Nizhny Novgorod region. Students consolidate the knowledge gained in the workshops of “Professionality” at the production sites of the Gorky Automobile Plant under the guidance of experienced mentors during practice, master classes, and the preparation of real projects.

    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 –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Denis Manturov and the Head of the Republic of Tatarstan Rustam Minnikhanov took part in the launch of the industrial technopark “Olimp”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Denis Manturov and Rustam Minnikhanov visited the KAMAZ automobile plant and took part in the opening ceremony of the industrial technopark in Tatarstan

    May 30, 2025

    Denis Manturov visited the KAMAZ automobile plant and took part in the opening ceremony of the industrial technopark in Tatarstan

    May 30, 2025

    Denis Manturov visited the KAMAZ automobile plant and took part in the opening ceremony of the industrial technopark in Tatarstan

    May 30, 2025

    Denis Manturov visited the KAMAZ automobile plant and took part in the opening ceremony of the industrial technopark in Tatarstan

    May 30, 2025

    Denis Manturov visited the KAMAZ automobile plant and took part in the opening ceremony of the industrial technopark in Tatarstan

    May 30, 2025

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    Denis Manturov and Rustam Minnikhanov visited the KAMAZ automobile plant and took part in the opening ceremony of the industrial technopark in Tatarstan

    First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov, as part of a working trip to Tatarstan, together with the head of the republic Rustam Minnikhanov, visited the KAMAZ automobile plant and also took part in the opening ceremony of a new industrial technology park.

    At the KAMAZ scientific and technical center, the First Deputy Prime Minister and the head of the republic were presented with a number of the latest high-tech vehicles of the K5 generation, as well as quarry dump trucks of the Atlant family, a KAMAZ-6290 water truck and a KAMAZ-53199 (Chistogor) flatbed electric garbage truck.

    KAMAZ presented a set of technical solutions that allow drivers with disabilities to operate trucks. The vehicle is equipped with a device that lifts and places the driver in the cabin. The vehicle is fully controlled using the steering wheel. Denis Manturov instructed the Ministry of Transport, the Ministry of Industry and Trade, Rosstandart, and the Ministry of Health to develop regulatory framework to ensure that drivers with disabilities are allowed to carry out commercial transportation in specially equipped vehicles. Such solutions may be in demand, including for participants in the SVO.

    Denis Manturov and Rustam Minnikhanov took part in the grand opening ceremony of the industrial technopark “Olimp”, the residents of which will be enterprises in the field of radio-electronic industry. In particular, the Electronics and Power Elements Center of PJSC “KAMAZ” will be opened here, specializing in the development and production of electronic components for freight and passenger vehicles with hydrogen fuel cells and electric traction. In total, the federal authorities, the Republic of Tatarstan and KAMAZ invested over 2 billion rubles in the project to create a new technopark.

    “Today we had the opportunity to get acquainted with the results of research and development work on technologies related to the development of hydrogen engines or accumulators. This area is developing quite actively in our country. At the same time, the application areas are very wide. This is not only the automotive industry, but also river vessels. We must maintain our potential without slowing down. This is an interdepartmental task. Today, colleagues identified a number of issues that need to be resolved. We will actively work on this area,” Denis Manturov emphasized.

    “This is the result of systematic work to create a high-tech infrastructure for the development of the republic and the entire country. The project was implemented with federal support, and thanks to this, the first stage of the construction of the technology park was completed in the shortest possible time. It is important for us that the technology park is also an educational platform and a center for training engineering personnel. In recent years, much has been done in terms of supporting higher education. I am confident that “Olimp” will become a place of innovation, where breakthrough technologies will be born and a new generation of engineers will grow up. We will always support. I want to wish that those discoveries appear here that will ensure the technological independence of the country,” said Rustam Minnikhanov.

    A meeting of the organizing committee for preparations for the celebration of the 400th anniversary of the founding of the city of Naberezhnye Chelny and the 50th anniversary of the release of the company’s first truck was also held at the KAMAZ site, chaired by the First Deputy Prime Minister.

    “The significance of these events not only for Tatarstan, but for the entire country is emphasized by the President’s decree. Therefore, it is important for us to do everything necessary to ensure that the celebrations are held at the proper level. And most importantly, to leave behind a legacy in the form of new and overhauled facilities. We are talking about educational, cultural, sports and medical institutions. About the street and road network and residential buildings,” Denis Manturov noted.

    “We are grateful to the President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin for the decision to celebrate the 400th anniversary of the city’s foundation and the 50th anniversary of the first KAMAZ vehicle at the federal level. The plan of the main events for the preparation and celebration of these significant dates has already been approved. And the main objective of the plan is to preserve human capital in the city, create comfortable conditions for life and work in production,” the head of the republic said.

    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 –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Patrushev: It is necessary to continue to open new markets for the development of Russian grain exports

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Dmitry Patrushev spoke at the IV All-Russian Grain Forum – 2025

    May 30, 2025

    Dmitry Patrushev spoke at the IV All-Russian Grain Forum – 2025

    May 30, 2025

    IV All-Russian Grain Forum – 2025

    May 30, 2025

    Dmitry Patrushev spoke at the IV All-Russian Grain Forum – 2025

    May 30, 2025

    Dmitry Patrushev spoke at the IV All-Russian Grain Forum – 2025

    May 30, 2025

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    Dmitry Patrushev spoke at the IV All-Russian Grain Forum – 2025

    Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Patrushev spoke at the IV All-Russian Grain Forum – 2025. The event was attended by representatives of relevant departments and organizations, as well as more than 60 companies that regularly purchase grain in our country.

    “Russian farmers harvested almost 130 million tons of grain in 2024. This result fully meets our domestic needs and creates a reserve for solving export problems. According to international institutions, this season Russia ranks second in barley production on the world stage, fourth in wheat and is in the top 10 in corn volumes. The 2025 sowing campaign is proceeding ahead of schedule. About 48 million hectares are planned for grain, including winter crops. All areas affected by recurrent frosts have already been resown. I expect that the approved area structure will be observed. And we can count on decent grain harvests. We hope that the harvest will be higher than in 2024,” said Dmitry Patrushev.

    The Deputy Prime Minister recalled that the Russian Government retains instruments to support farmers – preferential lending, control over the availability of mineral fertilizers, development of a preferential leasing mechanism, and others.

    In 2025, the subsidy for rail transportation of grain from Siberia and the Urals was increased by 2 billion rubles. This will allow more than 2 million tons to be exported from traditionally surplus regions and thereby support local farmers.

    Dmitry Patrushev noted that the intervention fund was transferred to sales mode in 2025. In addition, the export quota for wheat was reduced to maintain stability in the domestic market.

    According to the decree of the President on the national development goals of the Russian Federation, by 2030, with grain harvests of 170 million tons, grain supplies to foreign markets should reach 80 million tons. In the 2023-2024 season, Russia exported more than 71 million tons.

    The Deputy Prime Minister named measures that will allow removing barriers and intensifying current export deliveries. For example, a decree of the Russian Government was signed that increases the maximum volume of the additional quota for grain exports from 45 to 300%. This temporary measure will allow exporters to increase deliveries abroad due to the share of producers who have refused to export.

    “I urge businesses to make maximum use of the capabilities of our attachés on agro-industrial complex issues abroad, as well as the Federal Center for Development of Export of Agricultural Products. We have created this tool specifically to assist exporters in entering new sales markets,” said Dmitry Patrushev.

    The prospects for increasing exports, according to the Deputy Prime Minister, should also be viewed through the prism of expanding logistics capabilities. To this end, the development of port infrastructure continues first and foremost. Thus, in 2024, grain handling capacity increased by 5 million tons.

    In conclusion, Dmitry Patrushev noted the importance of international cooperation. The BRICS countries supported Russia’s proposal to create the association’s own grain exchange, aimed at strengthening food sovereignty and reducing dependence on Western trading platforms. At the level of the Russian Government, a concept is being developed that will be presented to partners.

    Dmitry Patrushev also answered questions from business representatives. They concerned support for the export of grain legumes, provision of farmers with fertilizers, agricultural insurance, lifting the ban on the export of raw rice and other topics. The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that, despite the importance of export development, the domestic market is a priority in decision-making.

    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 –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaine, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Require Supreme Court to Adopt Binding and Enforceable Code of Ethics

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), a former civil rights lawyer and legal ethics professor, joined 26 of his colleagues to reintroduce the bicameral Supreme Court Ethics, Recusal, and Transparency (SCERT) Act, legislation to require Supreme Court justices to adopt a binding code of conduct and create a mechanism to investigate alleged violations of the code of conduct and other laws. Specifically, the legislation would improve disclosure and transparency when a justice has a connection to a party before the Court, end the practice of justices ruling on their own conflicts of interest, and require justices to explain their recusal decisions to the public. 
    “Our nation was founded on the principle that no one is above the law, including our Supreme Court justices, but recent actions of some justices have led the American people to lose faith in this ideal,” said Kaine. “We must rebuild public trust in our nation’s highest court, which is why I’m proud to be reintroducing this commonsense legislation to create a tough, enforceable, and mandatory ethics standard to ensure the justices are acting in the best interest of the American people and properly carrying out their duties under the Constitution.”
    In recent years, reporting from ProPublica and The New York Times has exposed Justice Clarence Thomas’s long record of accepting undisclosed gifts from politically active right-wing billionaires. Further reporting from ProPublica found that Justice Samuel Alito accepted private jet travel to an all-expenses-paid vacation from a hedge fund billionaire who had contributed over $80 million to Republican political organizations and had business before the Court. Justice Alito’s luxury vacation was organized by Leonard Leo, the engineer of the current right-wing Supreme Court supermajority, at the behest of a cadre of right-wing billionaires and special interests. 
    The SCERT Act would address these and future ethical shortfalls by developing a process for the creation and enforcement of a code of conduct, improving the rules and transparency regarding gifts to justices, and strengthening recusal requirements to ensure impartiality of justices.
    In addition to Kaine, the bill is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Chris Coons (D-DE), John Fetterman (D-PA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Patty Murray (D-WA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).
    The SCERT Act is endorsed by Accountable.US/Accountable.NOW, Common Cause, Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), Citizens United/Let America Vote, Demand Justice, Fix the Court, New York City Bar Association, People’s Parity Project, League of Conservation Voters, Court Accountability Action, Free Law Project, American Governance Institute, Lawyers for Good Government, Public Citizen, and Stand Up America. 
    As a lawyer and legal ethics professor, Kaine has long supported Supreme Court ethics reform. In 2024, Kaine strongly supported President Joe Biden’s proposed Supreme Court reforms, which would have created an enforceable ethics code. In 2023, following the alarming ProPublica report, Kaine called on Chief Justice Roberts to investigate Justice Thomas. In 2023, Kaine also joined a letter urging the Senate Appropriations Committee to include language in upcoming government funding legislation to direct the Supreme Court to adopt binding, transparent, and enforceable ethics rules.
    Full text of the SCERT Act is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Pillen, Sen. Hughes-led bill focuses on TEEOSA

    Source: US State of Nebraska

    . Pillen, Sen. Hughes-led bill focuses on TEEOSA

     

    LINCOLN, NE — Governor Jim Pillen released the following statement after the Nebraska Legislature passed LB303. Gov. Pillen plans to sign it into law. 

    “LB303 creates the School Financing Review Commission. Nebraska’s long history with TEEOSA has shown there are some glaring flaws in the formula. An independent commission reviewing TEEOSA’s impact on students and educational outcomes will help the legislature find the right solutions for our state’s school funding formula and ultimately be a part of solving our property tax crisis. I’m grateful for Senator Hughes’ leadership and work to pass this legislation on the floor.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Foreign Nationals Indicted for Directing Interstate Stalking and Harassment Scheme and Conspiring to Procure Sensitive U.S. Military Technology

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Richard G. Frohling, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, and Bilal Essayli, United States Attorney for the Central District of California announced that federal grand juries in Milwaukee, WI and Los Angeles, CA each returned indictments charging two foreign nationals, Cui Guanghai, 43, of China, and John Miller, 63, of the United Kingdom and a U.S. lawful permanent resident, with interstate stalking and conspiracy to commit interstate stalking (Los Angeles) and conspiracy, smuggling, and violations of the Arms Export Control Act (Milwaukee).

    “As alleged, the defendants targeted a U.S. resident for exercising his constitutional right to free speech and conspired to traffic sensitive American military technology to the Chinese regime,” said Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche. “This is a blatant assault on both our national security and our democratic values. This Justice Department will not tolerate foreign repression on U.S. soil, nor will we allow hostile nations to infiltrate or exploit our defense systems. We will act decisively to expose and dismantle these threats wherever they emerge.”

    “The defendants allegedly plotted to harass and interfere with an individual who criticized the actions of the People’s Republic of China while exercising their constitutionally protected free speech rights within the United States of America,” said FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino. “The same individuals also are charged with trying to obtain and export sensitive U.S. military technology to China. I want to commend the good work of the FBI and our partners in the U.S and overseas in putting a stop to these illegal activities.”

    Allegations in the Eastern District of Wisconsin

    According to court documents, beginning in November 2023, Miller and Cui solicited the procurement of U.S. defense articles, including missiles, air defense radar, drones, and cryptographic devices with associated crypto ignition keys for unlawful export from the United States to the People’s Republic of China from two individuals (Individual 5 and Individual 6).   

    In connection with the scheme, Cui and Miller discussed with Individuals 5 and 6 ways to export a cryptographic device from the United States to the People’s Republic of China, including concealing the device in a blender, small electronics, or motor starter, and shipping the device first to Hong Kong. Cui and Miller paid approximately $10,000 as a deposit for the cryptographic device via a courier in the United States and a wire transfer to a U.S. bank account.

    Allegations in the Central District of California

    According to court documents, beginning in October 2023, Cui and Miller enlisted two individuals (Individual 1 and Individual 2) inside the United States to carry out a plot to prevent the Victim from protesting President Xi’s appearance at the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in November 2023. The Victim had previously made public statements in opposition to the policies and actions of the PRC government and President Xi.

    “The indictment alleges that Chinese foreign actors targeted a victim in our nation because he criticized the Chinese government and its president,” said U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli for the Central District of California. “My office will continue to use all legal methods available to hold accountable foreign nationals engaging in criminal activity on our soil.”

    Unbeknownst to Cui and Miller, Individual 1 and Individual 2 were affiliated with and acting at the direction of the FBI.

    In the weeks leading up to the APEC summit, Cui and Miller directed and coordinated an interstate scheme to surveil the Victim, to install a tracking device on the Victim’s car, to slash the tires on the Victim’s car, and to purchase and destroy a pair of artistic statues created by the Victim depicting President Xi and President Xi’s wife.

    A similar scheme took place in the spring of 2025, after the Victim announced that he planned to make public an online video feed depicting two new artistic statues of President Xi and his wife. In connection with these plots, Cui and Miller paid two other individuals (Individual 3 and Individual 4), approximately $36,500 to convince the Victim to desist from the online display of the statues. Unbeknownst to Cui and Miller, Individual 3 and Individual 4 were also affiliated with and acting at the direction of the FBI.

    If convicted, Cui and Miller face the following maximum penalties: five years for conspiracy; five years for interstate stalking; twenty years for violation of the Arms Export Control Act; ten years for smuggling.

    The FBI is investigating the case.  The United States is coordinating with Serbian authorities regarding the pending extraditions of Cui and Miller in Serbia.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Benjamin Taibleson for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, and David Ryan and Amanda B. Elbogen for the Central District of California, along with Trial Attorneys Leslie Esbrook and Menno Goedman of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the cases, with valuable assistance provided by the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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    For Additional Information Contact:

    Public Information Officer

    Kenneth.Gales@usdoj.gov

    414-297-1700

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