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Category: Sport

  • MIL-OSI USA: King, Cruz Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Modernize Ocean Mapping for Fishing and Boating Navigation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Angus King

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Angus King (I-ME), a member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources (ENR), and Ted Cruz (R-TX) have introduced bipartisan legislation to modernize mapping information on public oceans in an effort to improve public safety and provide navigation guidance through a user-friendly smartphone app. The bipartisan Modernizing Access to Our Public Oceans (MAPOceans) Act would require the federal government to standardize and digitize information about ocean recreation and navigation. This would create a one-stop shop that would help to ensure sportsmen and women can recreate in a safe and responsible manner.

    “Maine’s Atlantic coastline is an incredible natural treasure and one that attracts outdoor enthusiasts from around the country. If you want to enjoy the water, there should be an app for that purpose,” said Senator King, Chair of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus. “The bipartisan MAPOceans Act would combine all the available information about ocean recreation and navigation into a one-stop resource containing information about ocean recreation and navigation that you can hold in the palm of your hand. From deep-sea anglers to sailors and lobstermen, this legislation ensures that every person seeking adventure in Maine has the opportunity to do so safely and responsibly.”

    “Many Texans and Americans enjoy recreational fishing and boating, but it can be difficult to find reliable information about access to waterways and restricted areas,” said Senator Cruz. “I am proud to lead the effort to ensure anglers, boaters, and other users have easy access to accurate information on fishery area closures, so they can focus on appreciating what America’s beautiful waterways have to offer instead of wading through confusing agency websites.”

    Senator King is among the Senate’s leading voices for conservation of our nation’s outdoor treasures. In 2022, his bipartisan MAPLand bill to modernize park and public land mapping was signed into law. He also helped lead the passage the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA) into law; the legislation includes the Restore Our Parks Act — a bill led by Senator King — and the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) Permanent Funding Act. The historic legislative package continues Senator King’s career-long focus on conservation efforts, dating back to his work prior to running for elected office through his years as Governor and his service in the Senate. Over the course of his time in the Blaine House, Governor King was responsible for conserving more land across Maine than all Governors before him combined. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Speaks Out Against Republicans’ So-Called “Protection Of Women And Girls In Sports Act”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    March 03, 2025

    The bill could potentially subject women and girls to physical inspection by an adult if someone from an opposing team accused them of being transgender

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today spoke on the Senate floor against the so-called Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act—a Republican bill that would revoke federal funding from schools with athletic programs that allow trans girls to participate on sports teams for women or girls. The bill—which lacks a clear enforcement mechanism—could subject women and girls to physical inspection by an adult if someone from an opposing team accused them of being transgender. It infringes on the privacy of girls and women and is a dangerous use of the powers of government to target student athletes of all ages.

    Durbin said, “Put yourself in the shoes of these families for just a moment.  Imagine being the parent of a trans kid and telling your child they are not allowed to play on the same sports team as their friends at school because a politician said they couldn’t.”

    During his remarks, Durbin spoke about Harleigh Walker, a transgender teenage girl from Alabama, who, at 16 years old, spoke with an unwavering voice in front of the Senate Judiciary Committee about what it is like to be one of the children who are affected by these laws targeting transgender kids. Her home state of Alabama had enacted a law threatening her ability to access the care she needs to be happy and healthy. Harleigh told the Senate Judiciary Committee, “I want all of you to look at me, here and now, and hear my words. I am a very happy 16-year-old. I have wonderful friends who accept me for who I am. I’m active in my school’s debate team and other extracurricular[s]. I’m just trying to be a teenager in America. Same as any other teen, but I keep having to jump through hoops that other people my age don’t have to. I’m here in front of this Committee instead of enjoying summer vacation, just to try and ensure that my right to exist isn’t taken away.”

    “It’s that personal, it’s that important, and [because of Republicans,] we’re going to vote to give someone unspecified the right to physically inspect a girl or a young woman if the other opposing team accuses them of being transgender. My goodness,” Durbin concluded.

    During his remarks, Durbin recalled a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing where he asked NCAA President Charlie Baker how many transgender collegiate athletes there are. Mr. Baker responded that there are less than 10 transgender athletes out of more than 500,000 total NCAA athletes.

    Video of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.

    Audio of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.

    Footage of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here for TV Stations.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The triumph of our volleyball team

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    On March 3, 2025, in another regular match as part of the 2nd stage of the XXXVII Moscow Student Sports Games, the men’s volleyball team of the State University of Management beat the team of the State University of Land Management.

    Our athletes demonstrated excellent team spirit and skill, confidently taking the lead in the first set and not relinquishing it until the very end of the match:

    Final score of the match: 3-0

    Set 1: GUU – GUZ 25-15 Set 2: GUU – GUZ 25-22 Set 3: GUU – GUZ 25-21

    Particularly noteworthy is the play of I.A. Romanov, who was recognized as the best player of the match! His accurate serves and defensive actions made an invaluable contribution to the overall victory of the team.

    Congratulations on a well-deserved victory! Keep it up!

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 03/04/2025

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Tibet is one of the most linguistically diverse places in the world. This is in danger of extinction

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Gerald Roche, Lecturer in Linguistics, La Trobe University

    Three days after he was released from prison in December, a Tibetan village leader named Gonpo Namgyal died. As his body was being prepared for traditional Tibetan funeral rites, marks were found indicating he had been brutally tortured in jail.

    His crime? Gonpo Namgyal had been part of a campaign to protect the Tibetan language in China.

    Gonpo Namgyal is the victim of a slow-moving conflict that has dragged on for nearly 75 years, since China invaded Tibet in the mid-20th century. Language has been central to that conflict.

    Tibetans have worked to protect the Tibetan language and resisted efforts to enforce Mandarin Chinese. Yet, Tibetan children are losing their language through enrolment in state boarding schools where they are being educated nearly exclusively in Mandarin Chinese. Tibetan is typically only taught a few times a week – not enough to sustain the language.

    My research, published in a new book in 2024, provides unique insights into the struggle of other minority languages in Tibet that receive far less attention.

    My research shows that language politics in Tibet are surprisingly complex and driven by subtle violence, perpetuated not only by Chinese authorities but also other Tibetans. I’ve also found that outsiders’ efforts to help are failing the minority languages at the highest risk of extinction.

    Tibetan culture under attack

    I lived in Ziling, the largest city on the Tibetan Plateau, from 2005 to 2013, teaching in a university, studying Tibetan and supporting local non-government organisations.

    Most of my research since then has focused on language politics in the Rebgong valley on the northeast Tibetan Plateau. From 2014 to 2018, I interviewed dozens of people, spoke informally with many others, and conducted hundreds of household surveys about language use.

    I also collected and analysed Tibetan language texts, including government policies, online essays, social media posts and even pop song lyrics.

    When I was in Ziling, Tibetans launched a massive protest movement against Chinese rule just before the Beijing Olympics in 2008. These protests led to harsh government crackdowns, including mass arrests, increased surveillance, and restrictions on freedom of movement and expressions of Tibetan identity. This was largely focused on language and religion.

    Years of unrest ensued, marked by more demonstrations and individual acts of sacrifice. Since 2009, more than 150 Tibetans have set themselves on fire to protest Chinese rule.

    Not just Tibetan under threat

    Tibet is a linguistically diverse place. In addition to Tibetan, about 60 other languages are spoken in the region. About 4% of Tibetans (around 250,000 people) speak a minority language.

    Government policy forces all Tibetans to learn and use Mandarin Chinese. Those who speak only Tibetan have a harder time finding work and are faced with discrimination and even violence from the dominant Han ethnic group.

    Meanwhile, support for Tibetan language education has slowly been whittled away: the government even recently banned students from having private Tibetan lessons or tutors on their school holidays.

    Linguistic minorities in Tibet all need to learn and use Mandarin. But many also need to learn Tibetan to communicate with other Tibetans: classmates, teachers, doctors, bureaucrats or bosses.

    In Rebgong, where I did my research, the locals speak a language they call Manegacha. Increasingly, this language is being replaced by Tibetan: about a third of all families that speak Manegacha are now teaching Tibetan to their children (who also must learn Mandarin).

    The government refuses to provide any opportunities to use and learn minority languages like Manegacha. It also tolerates constant discrimination and violence against Manegacha speakers by other Tibetans.

    These assimilationist state policies are causing linguistic diversity across Tibet to collapse. As these minority languages are lost, people’s mental and physical health suffers and their social connections and communal identities are destroyed.

    How do Manegacha communities resist and navigate language oppression?

    Why does this matter?

    Tibetan resistance to Chinese rule dates back to the People’s Liberation Army invasion in the early 1950s.

    When the Dalai Lama fled to India in 1959, that resistance movement went global. Governments around the world have continued to support Tibetan self-determination and combat Chinese misinformation about Tibet, such as the US Congress passage of the Resolve Tibet Act in 2024.

    Outside efforts to support the Tibetan struggle, however, are failing some of the most vulnerable people: those who speak minority languages.

    Manegacha speakers want to maintain their language. They resist the pressure to assimilate whenever they speak Manegacha to each other, post memes online in Manegacha or push back against the discrimination they face from other Tibetans.

    However, if Tibetans stop speaking Manegacha and other minority languages, this will contribute to the Chinese government’s efforts to erase Tibetan identity and culture.

    Even if the Tibetan language somehow survives in China, the loss of even one of Tibet’s minority languages would be a victory for the Communist Party in the conflict it started 75 years ago.

    Gerald Roche has received funding for this research from the Australian Research Council. He is also affiliated with the Linguistic Justice Foundation.

    – ref. Tibet is one of the most linguistically diverse places in the world. This is in danger of extinction – https://theconversation.com/tibet-is-one-of-the-most-linguistically-diverse-places-in-the-world-this-is-in-danger-of-extinction-246316

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Lowry celebrates 25 years of culture in Salford

    Source: City of Salford

    As Lowry marks its 25th anniversary, Salford City Council is proud to join the celebrations and acknowledge the extraordinary impact this iconic cultural institution has had on the city. From its pivotal role in the regeneration of Salford Quays to its outstanding artistic and community achievements, Lowry continues to be a driving force for culture, creativity, and economic growth.

    The anniversary programme – packed with familiar names including Quentin Blake, Jeanette Winterson, and Aakash Odedra, theatre productions Gods of Salford and Dear England, immersive gallery experience LOWRY 360, alongside a brand new mural commissioned with French multi-disciplinary artist, Camille Walala – reflects Lowry’s influence on culture and the local community, one that Salford City Council wholeheartedly support and celebrate. 

    Since opening in April 2000, Lowry has welcomed over 18.5 million visitors, generating an annual £86 million in visitor spending and supporting over 600 jobs. More than just an arts centre, Lowry has played a fundamental role in transforming Salford Quays into a dynamic cultural hub.

    Paul Dennett, Salford City Mayor, highlighted the significance of Lowry in shaping the city’s future:

    “Lowry is a force for good in Salford and was a vital catalyst for the regeneration of the area. It is a place that is first and foremost for the people. It’s wonderful to reflect on the past 25 years – Lowry has not only brought world-class arts and theatre to the Quays but has also been instrumental in fostering community engagement, supporting young people, and strengthening our creative economy. It supports over 600 jobs, including 576 full-time jobs in the North West and 649 across the UK, demonstrating its critical role in the regional and national economy. It has contributed to a £1.3 billion GVA, acting as a foundational anchor for the development of MediaCityUK and positioning Salford as a major centre for arts, culture, and digital industries.

    Happy birthday Lowry, I look forward supporting your next exciting chapter!”

    Councillor Hannah Robinson-Smith, Lead Member for Culture, Heritage, Equalities, Sports and Leisure, echoed this sentiment, praising Lowry’s impact across generations:

    “Lowry is a cultural institution that has had an immense positive influence on communities across Salford. It has provided access to arts and culture for thousands of residents and continues to inspire new generations with its diverse and exciting programme. Its achievements to date are truly remarkable. Happy birthday, Lowry!”

    Findings from Lowry’s 2024 impact report reaffirm its invaluable contribution, with an estimated £22 million in social value generated annually. Lowry’s community outreach initiatives, including its Arts for Social Change programme and partnerships with local schools, continue to break down barriers and make the arts accessible to all.

    For further details on the anniversary programme, visit www.visitsalford.info/Lowry25 

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    Date published
    Tuesday 4 March 2025

    Press and media enquiries

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council announces amendments to new Experimental Parking Zone around Everton Stadium

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Liverpool City Council has announced several amendments to the experimental parking zone surrounding Everton Stadium as well as a number of improvements to the area, since the new venue’s first test event.

    The zone, introduced under an Experimental Traffic Regulation Order (ETRO), went live two weeks ago today (on Monday, 17 February) to coincide with Everton FC’s inaugural match at the stunning waterfront stadium at Bramley Moore-Dock. 

    A major public consultation was launched as part of the ETRO and the Council has so far received 4,895 responses.

    Based on feedback from businesses and residents in the city’s North Docks community, as well as initial findings from that historic event, the Council will now implement changes to its operation. 

    The proposed amendments include:

    • Applications for more than 10 business permits will be accepted on a case-by-case basis. Note: Business permits cost £50 each. Resident and visitor permits are free.
    • Safety-focussed enforcement of the zone on the second stadium test event, on Sunday, 23 March. (This will allow more time for businesses and residents to apply for permits and for the Council to investigate the level of appropriate enforcement during events.)
    • The one-hour limited waiting restriction will be extended to two hours, where possible.
    • Permit parking will be introduced in the Pumpfields area (i.e. the Blackstock Street, Paul Street, Pall Mall and Chisenhale Street areas.)

    The process to modify the ETRO to implement these initial recommendations (including new signage) will begin to be enacted within the next three months.

    The ETRO enables the Council to make these changes flexibly in the light of experience and analysis of their impact on a day-to-day basis. Further changes may also be made following the further two stadium Test Events, in March and May, and throughout the 18-month process up to August 2026. 

    In response to feedback from businesses, the Council will also explore the scope for on-street pay and display parking bays in key locations to identify options, where possible, for longer-stay parking.

    A further series of improvements, identified from the first test event, will also now be implemented, including:

    • A review of the event traffic management plan on road closures ahead of the second test event. This is to ensure closures are enacted and communicated more effectively.
    • Improvements to Street Lighting on walking routes to and from the stadium.
    • Improved pedestrian wayfinding signage between Sandhills station and City Centre stations and the stadium.
    • Temporary signage to shuttle bus and taxi rank locations.

    Following these amendments and improvements, the Council’s Highways team will continue to monitor the impact of the ETRO to determine whether this has positively assisted businesses, visitors, and public opinion and if other amendments are required.

    When and where do the ETRO measures apply?
    The new measures introduced in the zone, which radiates out via a 30-minute walk from the stadium, operate between the hours of 10am to midnight each day.
    North of Boundary Street, the zone is operative 1 August to 30 June. South of Boundary Street it is operative 12 months of the year. This is except for the Great Homer Street area, which operates 8am to midnight all year round.
    The ETRO is to run until August 2026, but Liverpool City Council will be seeking to review and amend the measures within the first six months before the new football season begins in August. The measures can be made permanent before August 2026, subject to agreement.

    What about Blue Badge holders?
    Blue Badge holders can park for as long as they need to within the permit parking areas in the experimental zone, and for up to three hours on a yellow line (unless a loading ban is in place). Badge holders can also park on yellow lines, unless there is a loading restriction, but they will need to clearly display their badge and blue parking clock as well as ensuring the vehicle is not causing an obstruction.
    For Blue Badge holders wishing to attend a football match at the stadium, Everton FC is in the process of exploring how it enhances its current parking offer to complement other transport arrangements such as the free shuttle bus service for disabled fans.

    Cllr Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council, said: “Since the Experimental Parking Zone went live on the day of Everton’s first test event, the Council has been listening to all the feedback and analysing what we can do to make improvements.

    “We understand the concerns being raised by businesses, residents and fans and we’ve wasted no time in assessing the necessary amendments that can be introduced as quickly as possible.  

    “The measures that can be amended to alleviate concerns on issues like waiting times and number of permits will be considered as a priority. The major concerns from the first event around road closures and street lighting are also being addressed to ensure they are remedied by the second test event at the end of March.

    “We are also working closely with colleagues at the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, Merseytravel and Merseyrail on their plans for public transport provision and we are in in active dialogue with them and Everton to ensure changes and improvements are made.”

    Cllr Dan Barrington, Cabinet Member for Transport and Connectivity, said: “Given this is an experimental zone and we are in the test event stage, lessons are being learned all the time.

    “I want to reassure everyone the Council is actively looking to make the necessary improvements to help businesses, residents and fans as much as possible, especially as we build up to the final test event in May and then the start of the new football season in August.

    “The Council is keen to continue talking to businesses to explain the process and to hear how the measures and amendments are impacting their staff and customers and how we can work together to make improvements quickly.

    “A key aim of the Experimental Zone is tackling the problem of commuter parking 365 days a year, as well as illegal and unsafe parking on double yellow lines and pavements. These issues impact the area all year round and it’s vital we get this right to support its economic development and to tackle congestion, especially as more businesses set up here and more residential schemes are developed.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The final of the case championship in sports management was held at the State University of Management

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    The State University of Management recently hosted the final of the case championship in sports management, organized by the professional football club CSKA together with the State University of Management, bringing together talented students ready to solve real problems in the sports industry.

    The case championship was held in two stages. The most active students visited the VEB Arena, where representatives of PFC CSKA conducted an excursion to places where no ordinary person has ever set foot. Our students visited the holy of holies of football players – the locker rooms, sat in the personal seats of legendary CSKA players, feeling the atmosphere of great victories and intense matches. The students were able to touch the history of the club, the excursion became an unforgettable moment, allowing them to look behind the scenes of a professional club.

    The first stage of the championship ended with the completion of homework, which served as a ticket to the final.

    The championship final took place within the walls of the State University of Management, where students worked on projects on topics such as volunteering at sporting events, organizing and managing fan movements in sports organizations, marketing strategies for sports clubs, and attracting young people to an active lifestyle.

    During the second stage of the championship, students not only developed theoretical concepts, but also proposed solutions to improve the efficiency of management in the field of sports.

    The prepared projects were evaluated, among others, by experts from the State University of Management – Associate Professor of the Department of Management in Healthcare and the Sports Industry of the Institute of Personnel Management, Social and Business Communications Tatyana Borisova, Senior Lecturer of the Department of Marketing of the Institute of Marketing Pyotr Tazov. The experts highly appreciated the students’ proposals and gave valuable advice.

    We thank the participants, the jury and the organizers for this unforgettable experience. Until next time!

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 03/04/2025

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement on U.S. Tariffs

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    NOTE: The following is a statement from Premier Tim Houston.

    Donald Trump is a short-sighted man who wields his power just for the sake of it, not having any consideration for the destructive impact of his decisions on both Canadians and Americans.

    It is impossible to properly describe the uncertainty and chaos that President Trump’s threat of tariffs and now actually imposing tariffs has caused for Canadians.

    And now, as President Trump proceeds with his illegal 25 per cent tariffs, Nova Scotia will respond.

    We will immediately limit access to provincial procurement for American businesses. They can no longer bid on provincial business. We are also actively seeking options to cancel existing contracts and reject bids outright until President Trump removes his unlawful tariffs.

    We will double the cost of tolls at the Cobequid Pass for commercial vehicles from the United States, effective immediately.

    And we will direct the Nova Scotia Liquor Corp. to once again remove all alcohol from the United States from their shelves, effective today. We know this was an effective response the first time and hurt American producers who rely on Canadian markets.

    We will also take any step we can to support Nova Scotians through this incredibly difficult time. As part of Budget 2025-26, we added a contingency fund to respond to U.S. tariffs. It is too early to determine exactly what specific funding is necessary, but we will communicate to Nova Scotians as we better understand the economic impacts and the federal government’s plans to support Nova Scotians.

    We introduced legislation designed to break down barriers to interprovincial trade. We must be open for business in Canada. We hope all provinces and territories immediately endorse and pass corresponding legislation.

    We are also working on a trade action plan to help businesses engage in global trade, increase their global competitiveness and drive investment growth and have issued a call to action to develop our valuable natural resources.

    I can tell you that we worked hard to avoid a repeat of Trump’s tax. We know tariffs are bad for people and businesses on both sides of the border.

    Unfortunately, some people need to touch the hot stove to learn, and while we cannot control or predict their behaviour, we can control how we respond.

    I want to thank Nova Scotians who have already responded with your wallet. You’re choosing to be Nova Scotia loyal and support local and Canadian businesses. You’re choosing to travel in our beautiful province and country rather than south of the border. You’re cheering loudly and proudly for our Canadian teams and athletes.

    These choices and actions are significant. It is important that we stand together, united and strong.

    That’s why we will continue to work with the federal government as it designs and implements counter-tariffs.

    We are a government of action, and I continue to stand with you. My focus is entirely on protecting the interest of hard-working Nova Scotians and their families – in these times of uncertainty, that is one constant you can continue to count on.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: HUNTPAL Showcases Success at SCI Convention in Nashville

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NASHVILLE, Tenn., March 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — UPAY Inc. (“UPAY” or the “Company”) (OTCQB: UPYY) is pleased to announce the successful participation of its subsidiary, HUNTPAL, at the 2024 Safari Club International (SCI) Annual Convention and the Ultimate Sportsmen’s Market. This prestigious event, held at the Music City Center in Nashville, Tennessee, brought together thousands of passionate hunters, outfitters, and industry leaders from around the world, celebrating SCI’s ongoing commitment to hunting advocacy and wildlife conservation.

    HUNTPAL made a strong impression at the convention, supporting one of its premier outfitters and introducing its brand to SCI attendees and the global hunting community. This event served as a pivotal moment for HUNTPAL, reinforcing its role in connecting hunters with top-tier outfitters while promoting ethical and sustainable hunting practices.

    Jaco Fölscher, CEO of UPAY and Director of HUNTPAL, commented: “The SCI Convention provided an unparalleled platform for HUNTPAL to engage with passionate hunters and industry leaders. Our presence not only strengthened our relationships with outfitters but also showcased HUNTPAL’s mission to revolutionize the hunting experience by offering seamless, trusted connections between hunters and professional outfitters worldwide.”

    The SCI Convention featured over 800 exhibitors, presenting world-class hunting opportunities, cutting-edge hunting gear, and luxury goods. Attendees had the chance to explore a diverse range of products, book premium hunting trips, and engage with leading experts in the field. The event also included educational seminars, celebrity appearances, and record-breaking auctions that raised millions for SCI’s advocacy and conservation efforts.

    HUNTPAL’s participation at SCI Nashville highlights its commitment to enhancing the hunting industry by fostering meaningful connections and supporting conservation initiatives. The overwhelming success of this year’s convention marks an exciting milestone for HUNTPAL as it continues to expand its footprint in the global hunting community.

    For media inquiries, please contact:

    CONTACT INFORMATION UPAY INC.
    Email: info@upaytechnology.com

    About UPAY Inc.:
    UPAY Inc. is a forward-thinking US public company dedicated to providing cutting-edge financial solutions to its clients. With a focus on innovation and user-centric design, UPAY remains at the forefront of technology in the fintech sector.

    About HUNTPAL:
    HUNTPAL partners with top-tier outfitters and specializes in all-inclusive hunting and adventure travel packages. With a commitment to responsible hunting and conservation, HUNTPAL offers unforgettable experiences to US hunters while preserving South Africa’s wildlife and supporting local communities.

    CAUTIONARY DISCLOSURE ABOUT FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS:
    The information contained in this publication does not constitute an offer to sell or solicit an offer to buy securities of UPAY Inc. This publication contains forward-looking statements, which are not guarantees of future performance. The Company has no obligation to provide the recipient with additional updated information. No information in this publication should be interpreted as any indication whatsoever of the Company’s future revenues, results of operations, or stock price.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget Lists Roam (ROAM) with Rewards Worth 1,675,000 ROAM

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, March 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget, the leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company, has announced the listing of Roam (ROAM) on its platform. Trading for ROAM/USDT will commence on 6 March 2025, 10:00 (UTC).

    Roam is the largest decentralized wireless network worldwide. Roam’s vision is to create a decentralized future where users are rewarded for sharing network data, thus encouraging a more collaborative and privacy-conscious online environment. Roam ensures automated wireless connections, seamless switching between different networks, and secure connectivity for individuals, smart devices, and AI agents. By leveraging a blockchain-based credential infrastructure, Roam has facilitated the widespread adoption of WiFi OpenRoaming, offered global smart eSIM services, and enabled a privacy-protected data layer for AI applications.

    To celebrate this listing, Bitget launches an exclusive promotion, Candybomb.
    The CandyBomb promotional event offers Bitget users the chance to earn ROAM through deposits and trading activity. A total of 1,675,000 ROAM tokens have been allocated for this campaign, which runs from 6 March 2025, 10:00 to 13 March 2025, 10:00 (UTC). The ROAM airdrop is divided into spot trading pools and futures trading pools. New spot traders and new futures traders can join the campaign via the CandyBomb page. The first 5,560 new users to complete the spot trading task will evenly share 1,390,000 ROAM, with each receiving 250 ROAM.

    This listing positions ROAM within Bitget’s expanding portfolio of assets available in the Innovation, WEB3, and Depin Zone, underlining the platform’s commitment to offering users access to promising projects that align with the broader principles of blockchain technology, emphasizing transparency, security, and decentralization.

    Bitget has consistently expanded its market share in both spot and derivatives trading among centralized exchanges. With an extensive selection of over 800 cryptocurrency pairs and a commitment to broaden its offerings to more than 900 trading pairs, Bitget connects users to various ecosystems, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, Base, and TON.

    For more information on Roam (ROAM), users can visit here.

    About Bitget
    Established in 2018, Bitget is the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company. Serving over 100 million users in 150+ countries and regions, the Bitget exchange is committed to helping users trade smarter with its pioneering copy trading feature and other trading solutions, while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, and other cryptocurrency prices. Formerly known as BitKeep, Bitget Wallet is a world-class multi-chain crypto wallet that offers an array of comprehensive Web3 solutions and features including wallet functionality, token swap, NFT Marketplace, DApp browser, and more.

    Bitget is at the forefront of driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships, such as its role as the Official Crypto Partner of the World’s Top Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA and LATAM markets, as well as a global partner of Turkish National athletes Buse Tosun Çavuşoğlu (Wrestling world champion), Samet Gümüş (Boxing gold medalist) and İlkin Aydın (Volleyball national team), to inspire the global community to embrace the future of cryptocurrency.

    For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Bitget Wallet

    For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com

    Risk Warning: Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to our Terms of Use.

    Contact

    Simran Alphonso
    media@bitget.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/cd3056f2-53ec-42d1-83b9-e74a1e179337

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Games volunteer signs launched

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The launch of the volunteer service-themed cultural signs for the 15th National Games (NG), the 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities (NGD) and the 9th National Special Olympic Games (NSOG) was held earlier at Sun Yat-sen University in Guangzhou.

    The volunteer service emblem, echoing the main emblem of the 15th NG, the 12th NGD and the 9th NSOG, takes the shape of a heart as a whole, adopting the same visual concept of a blooming flower used in the main emblem.

    The colours of the volunteer service emblem follow the main emblem’s tone, with Guangdong’s cotton red, Hong Kong’s bauhinia purple and Macau’s lotus green in the form of a concentric flower.

    The Games’ volunteer service-themed cultural signs are important cultural symbols that carry the spirit of the NG, NGD and NSOG as well as the vision of the volunteer services.

    The signs will be used conjointly in Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macau to further enhance collaboration of volunteer services among the three places.

    On the same occasion, people in charge of volunteer services of the Games and volunteer service organisations in Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macau also shared and exchanged views on the Games’ volunteer services.

    The volunteer service slogan is “Be more wonderful for you”. While “you” represents the events of the Games, and everyone who witnesses, participates in and supports the Games, “wonderful” is one of the requirements for hosting the Games, and also embodies the athletes’ excellent performance and volunteers’ contributions to the Games.

    The volunteer nickname is Little Dolphin to signify that the volunteers from Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macau are friendly, lovely, motivated, intelligent and united like dolphins.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Saras Micro Devices Announces Participation in CHIPS National Advanced Packaging Manufacturing Program Initiatives

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHANDLER, Ariz., March 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Saras Micro Devices (Saras), an emerging leader in cutting-edge system power performance solutions leveraging integrated packaging design, today announced its participation in two significant projects funded by the U.S. Department of Commerce CHIPS National Advanced Packaging Manufacturing Program (NAPMP). Each project was awarded $100 million in government funding.

    The first initiative is the Substrate-based Heterogeneous Integration Enabling Leadership Demonstration for the USA (SHIELD USA) project, led by Arizona State University (ASU) and Deca Technologies, Inc. The second is the Substrate and Materials Advanced Research and Technology (SMART) Packaging Program, led by Absolics, Inc. Saras will contribute its STILE™ product technology to both projects to enhance device package integration of advanced power delivery solutions for high-performance computing (HPC) and artificial intelligence (AI) applications.

    “Saras’ STILE technology enhances our substrate efforts,” said Jason Conrad, chief operating officer of ASU’s Southwest Advanced Prototyping (SWAP) Hub and site lead for MacroTechnology Works. “It adds functionality that complements our core development goals, helping to further elevate the capabilities of the advanced packaging solutions we’re developing.”

    Over the past year, Saras has secured seven foundational patents for its capacitor and STILE technologies from the United States Patent Trademark Office. This achievement underscores the company’s commitment to innovating critical solutions in power delivery for next-generation AI and HPC devices.

    “The power delivery challenges posed by AI require innovative solutions,” said Ron Huemoeller, CEO of Saras. “Our STILE technology addresses these challenges by enabling in-package power delivery close to the source, improving both efficiency and performance while opening up package real estate for higher levels of chiplet integration. By collaborating on the SHIELD USA and SMART projects, we’re able to contribute critical AI power delivery elements and, consequently, significantly advance U.S. semiconductor manufacturing capabilities.”

    STILE introduces a multi-domain, integrated passive module that embeds directly into the substrate core of device packages. This approach reduces the need for multiple function-specific devices, maximizes packaging real estate by optimizing space, and supports higher levels of chiplet integration—essential for the demands of AI workloads. The technology aligns with the goals of the NAPMP projects and will extend the advanced substrate technology solutions that the SHIELD USA project and SMART Packaging Program are focused on delivering.

    “This joint effort exemplifies how integrating complementary innovations can drive advancements in semiconductor packaging and address the performance demands of AI and HPC applications,” stated Craig Bishop, CTO of Deca Technologies. “SHIELD is truly a collaborative effort, combining Saras’ embedded passive technology with Deca’s novel interconnects at ASU’s research fab to demonstrate leap-ahead organic substrates.”

    The collaborations under the NAPMP advanced substrate and material projects highlight the importance of innovative power delivery solutions in maintaining U.S. leadership in semiconductor technology. By developing and scaling advanced packaging processes, materials, and equipment, these initiatives aim to create a robust foundation for high-volume semiconductor packaging production in the United States, enhancing national security and economic resilience.

    About Saras Micro Devices

    Established in 2021, Saras Micro Devices is revolutionizing the way power is delivered to advanced semiconductor devices. The company is developing custom and standard integrated passive modules that will significantly improve power performance and efficiency, addressing the challenges faced by the high-performance computing devices serving the growing demand for AI, ML, AR/VR, 5G/6G, and more. Instituted by an impressive team of advanced packaging experts with a combined 150+ years of experience in the microelectronics industry, Saras introduces an innovative embedded, 3D-integrated, vertical power delivery solution that enables higher per-watt performance, minimized routing losses, and greater overall efficiency while reducing the power management impact on the package footprint. Saras Micro Devices has simplified a currently complex solution for managing and optimizing power delivery. Uncover and explore further insights at sarasmicro.com.

    Media Contact:

    Mindy Lok, Kiterocket

    Phone: 480.240.8874

    Email: mlok@kiterocket.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/92979eb5-3ef8-458e-b3ac-501ec720a75b

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: NG, NGD and NSOG volunteer service-themed cultural signs launched (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    NG, NGD and NSOG volunteer service-themed cultural signs launched (with photo)
    NG, NGD and NSOG volunteer service-themed cultural signs launched (with photo)
    ******************************************************************************

         The launch of the Games’ volunteer service-themed cultural signs for the 15th National Games (NG), the 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities (NGD) and the 9th National Special Olympic Games (NSOG), and a volunteer service exchange event between Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao was held at Sun Yat-sen University in Guangzhou earlier.                          The event was organised by the Guangdong Provincial Executive Committees for the NG, NGD, and NSOG and hosted by Sun Yat-sen University. The Games’ volunteer service-themed cultural signs were unveiled at the event. Persons in charge of volunteer services of the Games and volunteer service organisations in Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao also shared and exchanged views on the Games’ volunteer services on the same occasion.                          The Games’ volunteer service-themed cultural signs are important cultural symbols that carry the spirit of the NG, NGD and NSOG, as well as the vision of the volunteer services. The signs are meaningful for promoting the spirit of volunteers, the 15th NG, the 12th NGD and the 9th NSOG, and creating a favourable social atmosphere for community participation and dedication. The signs will be used conjointly in Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao to further enhance collaboration of volunteer services among the three places, and promote the establishment of a volunteer culture system in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.                          The volunteer service emblem, echoing the main emblem of the 15th NG, the 12th NGD and the 9th NSOG, takes the shape of a heart as a whole. It adopts the same visual concept of a blooming flower used in the main emblem. The colours of the volunteer service emblem follow the main emblem’s tone, with the cotton red of Guangdong, the bauhinia purple of Hong Kong and the lotus green of Macao in the form of a concentric flower.                          The volunteer service slogan is “Be more wonderful for you”. While “you” represents the events of the Games, and everyone who witnesses, participates in and supports the Games, “wonderful” is one of the requirements for hosting the Games, and also embodies athletes’ excellent performances and volunteers’ contributions to the Games. The volunteer nickname is Little Dolphin, signifying that the volunteers from Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao are friendly, lovely, motivated, intelligent and united like dolphins.                          For details of the Games’ volunteer service-themed cultural signs, please refer to the press release issued by the Guangdong Provincial Executive Committees for the NG, NGD, and NSOG (www.baygames.cn/node_0e9abf3fbd/2b01bc990f.shtml) (Chinese only). For more information on the 15th NG, the 12th NGD and the 9th NSOG in Hong Kong, please visit the thematic website (www.2025nationalgames.gov.hk/en/index.html) as well as the Facebook page (www.facebook.com/2025nationalgames.hk) and Instagram page (www.instagram.com/2025nationalgames.hk).

     
    Ends/Tuesday, March 4, 2025Issued at HKT 16:27

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Primary school sporting festival celebrates culmination of skills sessions

    Source: City of Winchester

    Children from across the Winchester district have marked the development of their sporting skills with a celebratory festival.     

    The inter-schools festival marked the culmination of ten weeks of sports sessions at local primary schools involving over 700 children. The sessions were arranged by Winchester City Council in partnership with ActiveMe 360.

    Over 50 pupils took place in a range of challenges in the end festival, which took place in February at the King George V Playing Fields and the University of Winchester all-weather pitch.

    Those taking part in the festival included children from Years 5-6 from: All Saints CE Primary School; Durley Primary School; Stanmore Primary School; Colden Common Primary School; Hambledon Primary School; and Swanmore Primary School.

    The project was funded by the UK Government through the Levelling Up Shared Prosperity Fund.

    Winchester City Council’s Cabinet Member for Community and Engagement Cllr Kathleen Becker said: “These sporting sessions have been a wonderful opportunity for local children across the district to learn more about a range of popular sporting pastimes, and then demonstrate that learning in a very fun way at a tournament to celebrate all that they have learned and achieved.

    “It has been great to see so many primary schools in our local community getting involved with the sessions. Well done to everyone who took part!”

    Jane Hall, headteacher at All Saints CE Primary School in Winchester, said: We have been delighted by the progression of our children’s teamwork and collaboration skills as a result of the sessions. The children have loved taking part in the coaching sessions and were extremely keen to join in each week.

    “It has been an excellent opportunity for the children to be physically active whilst having such an enjoyable time.”

    Chris Fraser-Wade, Director of Business Operations at ActiveMe 360 said: “At ActiveMe 360, we want people to live healthier, happier, more active lives. This is our fourth year of partnership with Winchester City Council and since last summer, we’ve engaged over 700 pupils across local schools through our Jag Tag, football, and cricket school-based projects, plus many more in the wider community during the school holiday periods.

    “It’s always been more than just sport. It’s been about giving every child the chance to grow in confidence, develop key life skills, and improve their physical, mental, and social wellbeing”.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: From Childhood to Career: How the Educational Verticals Project Helps Schoolchildren Decide on a Profession

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    There are kids in Moscow who have been conducting scientific research, creating smart technology and speaking at conferences since they were 13. They go to regular schools, but study from the seventh to the ninth grade under a special program of the city project “Educational verticals”It has been implemented since 2018 and helps to choose the direction of future activities in advance, to enter a specialized or pre-professional class.

    The project has already been joined more than 87 thousand children from 465 schoolsThere are currently three verticals in the capital: mathematics, information technology (IT), and natural sciences.

    About enrollment in the project and how it helps find your life’s work – in the mos.ru article.

    “Mathematical vertical”: for any profession

    The first in the project was “Mathematical vertical”: schools began implementing it in 2018. In 2025, more than 51 thousand children in 460 educational institutions are studying under this program.

    “The mathematical direction, perhaps the most popular, opens up the broadest prospects for teenagers. After the ninth grade, they can go to almost any pre-professional classes: engineering, IT, entrepreneurship. Knowledge of practical mathematics is necessary for athletes, art historians, and musicians,” says the curator of the “Mathematical Vertical” School No. 1502 “Energy” Galina Bezrukova.

    The main condition for admission to the vertical is to study well. At the end of the sixth grade, children undergo testing (diagnostics) by the Moscow Center for Education Quality (MCEQ) in mathematics and functional literacy – the ability to navigate a large amount of information, deeply analyze text and apply mathematical knowledge in practice. For example, one of the tasks may be: “Determine which theater has cheaper tickets and how to get there faster.” Annual diagnostics are mandatory for all schoolchildren, but to become a vertical student, sixth-graders need to pass all tests with a good or excellent grade.

    Even before the MCCO, teachers pre-select those who will be suitable for the vertical program. They pay attention to children who not only study well, but also attend math or IT clubs and participate in Olympiads from elementary school. Parents of these children are advised to think about enrolling in the project. In the first year of the vertical, the student finally decides whether he has chosen the right direction Natalya Vorobyeva, curator of the Mathematical Vertical and IT Vertical projects at the Institute for the Development of Profile Education at the Moscow City Pedagogical University (MCPU)

    Schools that have educational verticals form one or more classes for project participants. Those who chose the “Mathematical Vertical” have four to five hours of algebra, two to three hours of geometry, one to two hours of probability and statistics, and two hours of additional classes after school.

    The teaching aids used in the project are distinguished not only by their scientific nature, that is, respect for the subject, but also by their accessibility, that is, respect for the student. Complex things are explained in the simplest possible way. Each section contains practical, life-related tasks. Therefore, learning is exciting, and when a child is interested, he does not notice the increased workload Galina Bezrukova, curator of the “Mathematical Vertical” of school No. 1502 “Energy”

    Nine universities participate in the “Mathematical Vertical”. Among others are the Lomonosov Moscow State University, the National Research University Higher School of Economics, and the Bauman Moscow State Technical University. University teachers conduct master classes for children, teach them how to write project papers, and suggest research topics.

    “IT-vertical”: for those who want to become a programmer and inventor

    “IT-vertical” has existed since 2022. 194 schools and about 12 thousand teenagers participate in this project.

    Those who entered the IT-vertical class at our school study eight hours of mathematics and two hours a week of computer science, programming, and technology. In technology classes, children study modeling and prototyping, and from the eighth grade, electronics and microprocessor technology are added. In addition, project participants are required to attend at least two clubs, for example, robotics, project activities, or the basics of creating devices for a smart home Roman Koltunov, curator of the IT-vertical, school No. 444

    The project is cooperating with 12 Moscow universities, including the National University of Science and Technology “MISIS”, MIREA – Russian Technological University, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, and N.I. Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University. Teachers from these educational institutions guide the students and suggest ideas for development.

    “Two ninth-grade students from School No. 444, Kamila Sabirova and Taisiya Yablonovskaya, for example, created a device for brewing tea: boiling water is poured into a glass, a robotic hand dips a tea bag into it, and a person, meanwhile, sets the parameters for the strength of the drink in the program,” a mos.ru source shared.

    And ninth-graders from the same school, Nikolai Valchuk and Daniil Devyaterikov, invented a home flight simulator for future pilots. The engine control levers, made similar to those used in airplane cockpits, are connected to a computer, and a novice specialist can train without leaving his room.

    “Since early childhood, I have loved programming and assembling things with my own hands, and I am interested in the aviation industry. My dream is to make an ion engine that can be used in space satellites. It works from a cylinder with inert gas, and is wear-resistant. In the near future, I hope to complete this development and test it on a small boat,” explains Nikolai Valchuk, a ninth-grader at School No. 444.

    “Natural Science Vertical”: Future Doctors and Ecologists

    “Natural Science Vertical” appeared in schools in 2022. More than 17 thousand students in 253 schools study under this program. The knowledge will be useful in medicine, pharmaceuticals, psychology, energy industry, genetics, ecology. The project partners are 10 universities, in particular the First Moscow State Medical University named after I.M. Sechenov, the Russian National Research Medical University named after N.I. Pirogov, Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia, Moscow State Pedagogical Univ.

    In the natural science vertical classes, schoolchildren have more hours of physics, chemistry and biology than in a regular class. Moreover, chemistry starts not in the eighth grade, but in the seventh. In addition, teenagers have additional courses in natural science, which are allocated at least an hour a week. The guys devote the same amount of time to project-research activities. Since the age of 13, they have been speaking at city scientific and practical conferences Elena Semyashova, curator of the Natural Science Vertical project at the Institute for the Development of Specialized Education at Moscow State Pedagogical University

    So, inschool #2070 named after Hero of the Soviet Union G.A. Vartanyan Children in the seventh grade stay after school for classes on plant and animal physiology, and in the ninth grade – on inorganic synthesis.

    This year, the project participants prepared 28 scientific papers on human anatomy and physiology. For example, they found out that in-ear headphones contribute to the development of ear infections. It turned out that almost none of the respondents treat the device with an antiseptic. Based on the results of the testing, the children wrote a memo on the use of headphones and placed it in the hallway Olesya Lukinskaya, curator of the Natural Science Vertical at School No. 2070

    One of the students in the Natural Science Vertical class at this school, eighth-grader Victoria Fedyanova, conducted a study: she interviewed 50 teenagers, then measured their blood pressure before classes and during tests. It turned out that those who sleep less than seven hours and often experience stress are prone to a 20 percent increase in blood pressure. “I’m thinking of studying to become a doctor, perhaps an endocrinologist. I’m sure that the knowledge I gained through the vertical program will help me enter a university,” Victoria sums up.

    The MES library was used almost 60 million times in a yearPhysics and computer science are among the most popular subjects for schoolchildren to take the Unified State ExamTouch the world of science. How academic classes in Moscow schools prepare future scientistsIndustry and IT sector: the most sought-after sectors for employment in Moscow have been named

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

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

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/150878073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: A New Dawn for African Sports: Unlocking Transformational Investment in Community Sports Infrastructure

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    LAGOS, Nigeria, March 4, 2025/APO Group/ —

    The Sports Africa Investment Summit 2025 has marked a pivotal moment in Africa’s journey toward sports industrialisation and economic transformation. Over two electrifying days in Lagos, the summit, hosted by Sport Nigeria Ltd/Gte (www.SportNigeria.ng) in partnership with the Office of the Presidency and the National Sports Commission, brought together a powerful coalition of stakeholders—government representatives, UNESCO, AFREXIM Bank, Development Finance Institutions (DFIs), investors, and sports industry leaders—all united by a shared vision: to unlock the immense potential of sports as a driver of economic growth, job creation, and community development across Africa. 

    At the heart of this historic gathering was the signing of a groundbreaking technical agreement between the Abia State Government and Sport Nigeria Ltd/Gte, paving the way for Africa’s first-ever Sports Special Economic Zone (SSEZ). This visionary initiative will transform Abia State into a global hub for sports goods manufacturing, leveraging Aba’s legendary craftsmanship, entrepreneurial spirit, and industrial excellence. Aligned with Nigeria’s Industrial Revolution Plan (NIRP) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the SSEZ is poised to become a beacon of innovation, trade, and industrialisation, creating thousands of jobs and empowering local businesses. 

    According to Hon. Nwaobilor Ananaba, Commissioner for Sports, Abia State, “The Special Sports Economic Zone is a game-changer for Abia State and Nigeria at large. Under the visionary leadership of His Excellency, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR we are committed to driving a collective agenda that will transform Abia into the premier hub for sports goods manufacturing and infrastructure development. This project is a bold step toward job creation, youth empowerment, and economic diversification, and we will work tirelessly to ensure its full realisation with our partners, Sports Nigeria.” 

    The summit’s robust discussions underscored the pressing need for innovative financing models, capacity-building initiatives, and diaspora engagement to sustain long-term development. According to Mr. Chinedum Chijioke, Chair of the Abia State Investment Office, “The signing of this agreement marks the beginning of a transformative journey to attract global investments and build an ecosystem where sports, commerce, and industry thrive together. We are dedicated to fostering strategic partnerships that will actualise this vision and create lasting economic impact.” 

    The summit also saw the formal launch of Spaces 4 Sports, Sport Nigeria’s flagship initiative designed to address Africa’s sports infrastructure deficit at the grassroots level. This cluster-based model will integrate community sports hubs across the continent, providing accessible facilities that encourage mass participation in sports, particularly within the education sector. By embedding sports into daily life, Spaces 4 Sports aims to achieve a 50% increase in mass sports participation, enhance youth engagement, and accelerate progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Africa Union Agenda 2063, using sports as a catalyst for education, health, and gender inclusivity. 

    The message from the summit was clear: Africa’s sports economy is ready to take off, but it will require bold investments, visionary leadership, and strategic partnerships to realise its full potential. This point was emphasised by Ms. Nkechi Obi, CEO of Sport Nigeria Ltd, “Sports is more than entertainment—it’s an industry, a business, and a force for economic transformation. Abia’s Sports Special Economic Zone is the first of its kind, but it won’t be the last. We are setting a precedent that others will follow.” 

    The private sector has a critical role to play in bridging the infrastructure gap and unlocking the industry’s potential. With sports serving as a multi-billion-dollar industry globally, Africa is uniquely positioned to harness its youthful population, raw talent, and market demand. Strategic investment in sports infrastructure will not only drive economic growth but also create employment, boost tourism, and elevate Africa’s global sporting competitiveness. 

    Mr. Yahaya Maikori, Vice Chairman of Sport Nigeria, notes that “We don’t need more talk—we need action. This SSEZ is our action plan. The world is watching, and investors are ready. Now is the time.” 

    The foundation has been laid. The partnerships are forming. Now is the time for investors, DFIs, and Africa-focused development organisations to step forward and seize this unprecedented opportunity. The future of African sports is not on the sidelines—it’s in the factories, the training centers, the research labs, and the boardrooms. 

    The call to action is clear: Invest in Africa’s sports future. Build the infrastructure. Empower the youth. Transform communities. Together, we can change the game. 

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Sergei Sobyanin summed up the results of the Winter in Moscow project

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The Winter in Moscow project has ended in the capital. Almost 30 million Muscovites and guests of the city took part in it. Sergei Sobyanin summed up the results of the large-scale project in his blog.

    “Three months of festivities, almost 53 thousand events and countless impressions, smiles, cozy gatherings with loved ones and new acquaintances are behind us. I sincerely thank the organizers, artists, volunteers and everyone who helped to implement this large-scale and important project for the city – we did a great job together!” – wrote the Mayor of Moscow.

    The Winter in Moscow project united the largest festivals: Journey to Christmas, Moscow Estates, Moscow Tea Party, Moscow Maslenitsa, Chinese New Year in Moscow, Moscow Traditions, as well as popular city events: the parade of Father Frosts and Snow Maidens, Student Days in Moscow, Winter Day of Moscow Sports and much more.

    Good works

    Much attention was traditionally paid to charity. Residents and guests of the capital collected and handed over 35 thousand gifts to the Domiki Dobra (Houses of Good) of the Moscow Helps project. Warm clothes and cards with heartfelt wishes were brought for the participants of the special military operation (SVO), and toys and books were given to young residents of the new regions. Family members of SVO participants were given 30 thousand certificates for free visits to skating rinks, as well as 17 thousand tickets to New Year’s trees.

    In February, a charity day was held at the VDNKh skating rink. The proceeds from ticket sales were sent to the Konstantin Khabensky charity foundation, the Vera and Life Line hospices, and the I Am! foundation for supporting children with special needs.

    This year, a month before the official end of the “Kind Tree” campaign, Muscovites fulfilled more than 1,700 cherished wishes of the wards of 170 Moscow non-profit organizations.

    Many visited the winter charity festival “City of the Caring”, events of the volunteer project “Time of Good” and the inclusive exhibition “World without Borders” on the territory of the design factory “Flacon”, and also became Santa Clauses as part of the “Fulfill a Wish” campaign. They did not forget about four-legged animals: they collected food, shampoos and much more for shelters, including in new regions.

    Citywide festivals

    Citywide festivals were, as always, especially popular. As part of the “Journey to Christmas,” Muscovites and tourists met fairy-tale characters and heroes of their favorite Soviet comedies and cartoons, mastered folk crafts and learned to cook New Year’s dishes at master classes, competed in strength, dexterity and accuracy.

    More than 170 ice shows staged by the best Russian figure skaters took place on the venues of “Winter in Moscow”. Olympic champions and other brightest sports stars took to the ice as part of the festival. The program included performances based on favorite fairy tales (“The Nutcracker”, “Swan Lake”, “The Bremen Town Musicians”, “The Snow Queen”).

    The participants of the festival “Moscow Estates” especially remembered the park ball-performance “Theatre in a Box” in the N.E. Bauman Garden and Ostankino Park.

    The City of Light festival became a real celebration of art, mapping and New Year’s magic. Every evening the city streets turned into illustrations of favorite fairy tales. 10 architectural sites in the center of the capital were decorated with projections of iconic stories. Muscovites and guests of the capital could enjoy fantastic light canvases for almost four thousand hours.

    Last year, Muscovites loved the festival to celebrate the Chinese New Year. This year, it was extended and expanded — people could get acquainted with Chinese culture for two weeks at two dozen venues throughout the city.

    At the Moscow Tea Party festival, more than 37 thousand cups of Moscow tea were drunk. During Moscow Maslenitsa, 120 thousand portions of pancakes were eaten, and more than 270 thousand postcards were sent across the country via Winter Mail.

    “Moskino Cinema Park participated in the winter citywide project for the first time, so it prepared with special responsibility: film screenings, excursions, performances, immersive shows – one day is not enough to take part in everything. One of the most popular events was the performance “Cathedral Square” about the Time of Troubles – every screening was sold out,” said Sergei Sobyanin.

    A family space opened on the territory of the Moscow Palace of Pioneers, which was visited by more than 115 thousand people in three months. The skating rink was especially popular, as it worked continuously in any weather thanks to its artificial surface. In addition, residents and guests of the capital could visit a charity fair, go tubing and husky sledding. On weekends and holidays, the site hosted master classes, immersive performances, and an eco-farm with deer and alpacas. On the last day of winter, the site hosted a large-scale celebration of Maslenitsa.

    A family space opened on the territory of the Moscow Palace of Pioneers on Vorobyovy Gory, which was visited by more than 115 thousand people in three months. The skating rink, which worked continuously in any weather thanks to the artificial surface, was especially popular. In addition, residents and guests of the capital could visit a charity fair, ride tubing and husky sleds. On weekends and holidays, master classes, immersive performances were held, and an eco-farm with deer and alpacas operated. On the last day of winter, a large-scale celebration of Maslenitsa was held on the site.

    Market of Magic

    Another new feature of “Winter in Moscow” is the magic market of the “Made in Moscow” project. It was held on seven popular tourist streets of the capital – Arbat and Novy Arbat, Kuznetsky Most, Rozhdestvenka, Tverskoy Boulevard, Stoleshnikov Lane, and Bolotnaya Square. Each of the pavilions became a real art object. More than 500 Moscow manufacturers presented their products in them.

    In the flagship pavilion on Bolotnaya Square, one could not only buy products from Moscow manufacturers, but also participate in master classes, watch fashion shows and ice shows, and even ride a real steam locomotive. More than 570 thousand city residents visited the Magic Market, where over 3.5 thousand free themed events took place. In addition, there was a free skating rink, where more than 130 thousand people skated.

    The market became one of the key city support measures for the capital’s businesses. Thus, local brands were able to present their products on the shelves for free, selling more than 50 thousand units of goods. The market participants sent 10 percent of the proceeds to the charity fund “People’s Front. Everything for Victory!”

    Contribution of entrepreneurs

    Entrepreneurs — participants of the special project “Come on in!” — also contributed to the creation of a winter mood in the capital. They prepared more than 900 events — special offers in the form of discounts and bonuses and free gastronomic and creative master classes, performances, and sports. More than six thousand residents and guests of the city took advantage of the offers of the capital’s businesses.

    The 2nd Moscow Beauty Week was held in the Manezh Central Exhibition Hall. Over 60,000 people visited the event over the course of four days, and over 600 Russian companies presented their products, 384 of which were from the capital. One of the main stands at the exhibition was the Made in Moscow stand, designed as an advent calendar. Over 50 capital brands presented their unique products, and visitors could buy souvenirs, take part in themed master classes, and make gifts with their own hands.

    The festive atmosphere in Moscow was created by businessmen who decorated the facades, shop windows and entrances of their organizations. To support such enterprises, a competition for the best winter decoration was held, and a grant for decoration was provided for the first 100 entrepreneurs, within the framework of which businessmen were able to compensate part of the decoration costs. Most of the applications came from companies in the catering sector. In addition, creative teams, designers, as well as citizens over 18 years old were able to show their talents in a competition for the best project of festive and thematic decoration of a non-residential property.

    Events in the parks

    Immersive performances, ice shows and culinary master classes were organized for visitors in the capital’s parks. Interesting events were held here all winter, including the “Tasty Frosts” gastrofestival, the “Snow and Ice” festivals, “Blue Light”, “Hipsters” and much more. Three thousand people took part in the “Mandarin” New Year’s competition.

    We tried to please little Muscovites with New Year’s performances at Gostiny Dvor. The program was not limited to a musical performance, but also unfolded in a specially created space “Detstvograd” in the foyer around an 11-meter fir tree. More than 300 artists, equilibrists and animators took part in the Mayor’s tree.

    More than 600 tons of Ural ice were brought to Moscow for the Snow and Ice festival. Sculptures, light installations and art objects appeared in the city, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere. The central object of the festival was the Ice Castle of Wonders in the Muzeon Arts Park. This is a huge structure with multi-level slides, on which more than 75 thousand guests rode.

    Outdoor sports

    “Frosty weather is not a reason to deny yourself the pleasure of doing sports. And although winter did not spoil skiers with snow this year, skiing was still possible thanks to our artificial snow-covered slopes in Luzhniki, Bitsa Park, on the territory of Grebnoy Canal and in other places. The ski slopes, including those on Vorobyovy Gory, Novo-Peredelkino and Sevastopolsky Prospekt, were also popular,” the Moscow Mayor emphasized.

    For ice skaters, the city was a real paradise. One of the largest skating rinks, Luzhniki, hosted more than 100,000 people this winter season.

    As part of the Winter in Moscow project, master classes by famous figure skaters were held at the skating rinks. In total, more than 1.2 thousand people took part in them.

    Muscovites could assemble their own team or simply come to one of the 10 capital parks and enjoy the spirit of folk winter competitions, playing Russian hockey in felt boots, snow darts or curling as part of the new family sports festival “Moscow Traditions”. More than 100 thousand people took part in it.

    The winter season of the My Sports District project brought together 60,000 outdoor sports enthusiasts. Professional trainers conducted more than 5,800 skating, skiing, and fitness training sessions.

    A large-scale program was presented at the city’s largest skating rink at VDNKh, which could accommodate up to five thousand people at a time. Here, you could not only hone your skills, but also watch ice shows, participate in theme parties, morning exercises, night skating, and visit a children’s skating school. New features included stands for spectators, an ice arena for hockey and laser tag, a bar counter, and an expanded food court.

    From the end of November to the beginning of March, more than 120 events were held at the skating rink, and almost half a million people became its guests. In addition, during the New Year holidays, VDNKh guests could immerse themselves in the magical atmosphere at the New Year’s fair behind pavilion No. 58.

    Get to know the city better

    The new winter season was the augmented reality game “Winter in Moscow” based on the Russpass mobile app. Walking around the city, getting to know the sights and catching cartoons with the help of smartphones was enjoyed by both children and many adults – players visited the capital’s iconic places more than 730 thousand times.

    It was also possible to get to know Moscow or take a new look at it on excursions of the project “Heritage Around Us”. One of its features was the use of virtual reality glasses. Participants of the excursions could travel into the past and see the interiors of Moscow estates and other historical buildings, usually closed to visitors.

    “Winter in Moscow” was an amazing event, but summer is just around the corner – we are starting to prepare for a new project!” concluded Sergei Sobyanin.

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

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

    https: //vv.mos.ru/mayor/tkhemes/12434050/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: King Votes No on Legislation Banning Transgender Athletes from School Sports Programs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Angus King
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME) released the following statement after the Senate voted on the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act, which did not reach the 60-vote cloture threshold, failing to advance by a count of 51-45:
    “This afternoon, the Senate voted on the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act, federal ban on transgender women from participating in school and college athletic programs. This bill was introduced in response to an issue that has become politically polarizing throughout the country, even though it involves only a small fraction of student athletes. Under the bill, if a single Maine school district decided not to comply with this federal mandate, all federal education funding to the entire state would be lost.
    “I understand the frustration around the issue of transgender athletes participating in women’s sports. Some students, parents and educators have concerns about a lack of ‘fairness’ and, among other things, safety issues, due to the physical differences between those born of different genders. Being the parent of a female high school athlete, I fully understand these concerns.
    “However, if one school in Maine decided to include a single trans student one of their teams, schools across the entire state would lose access to critical funding which would be detrimental to all students, a result disproportionate to the impact of one transgender athlete at one school. While these are complex issues, considerations of fairness and safety in sports are made every day by parents, educators, and school administrators at the local level. We should keep it that way and allow local communities to decide what’s best for their districts and their students, and let states abide by the will of their citizens. In other words, I see this as a state’s rights issue which should not require a one-size-fits-all federal solution. Simply put, it is highly likely this legislation would hurt Maine and Maine students.
    “Therefore, I am ultimately not comfortable conditioning all federal education funding on an issue that singles out such a small number of students nationwide — including here in Maine — and takes the decision-making power away from local communities.
    “Finally, I find it odd that many of those supporting this legislation have exactly the opposite position when it comes to women’s reproductive choices — that that issue should be left to the states — while the question of transgender athletes requires a federal solution which overrides local control.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto Votes Against Overreaching Bill to Require Genital Exams for Young Girls in Sports

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto released the following statement after voting against the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act, an over-broad bill that would open the door to genital exams for young girls on local sports teams.

    “I support fair play and safety and do not support transgender athletes competing in girls’ and women’s sports when it compromises those principles. I believe local schools, student athletes, coaches, and parents are much better equipped to implement fair, strong policies on this issue than politicians in Congress. This blanket legislation would allow anyone to subject girls to invasive physical exams just because of the way they look. That is incredible government overreach and is putting young women at increased risk for abuse and harassment – something I’ve spent my career fighting against.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner & Kaine on Legislation that Would Defund Public Schools & Subject Children to Uncomfortable Physical Scrutiny

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) issued the following statement after voting to block a procedural move on legislation to prevent transgender athletes from participating in women’s sports:

     

    “Right now, Congress should be focused on passing bills that lower grocery prices, not ones that threaten to defund public schools and gut world-class American colleges and universities. But instead, Republicans are poised to eliminate the Department of Education, while at the same time trying to dictate how individual schools should run their sports programs and subjecting children to uncomfortable scrutiny, invasive questioning, and even harassment. We will be voting to prevent this bill from moving forward and to leave the decision of how to best integrate transgender students into sports in the hands of parents, educators and state athletic associations—not the federal government.”

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: White House Issues Statement Supporting Tuberville’s Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama)

    WASHINGTON – Today, the White House issued a statement in support of U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville’s (R-AL) Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act to make President Trump’s recent “Keeping Men out of Women’s Sports” Executive Order permanent:

    “The Administration strongly supports passage of S. 9, the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act of 2025. Through an amendment to Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, this bill would expressly recognize what is already federal law—that it is an illegal act of discrimination for a man to participate in a federally funded athletic program or activity designated for women or girls. This bill also recognizes that “sex,” as used in the statutory scheme, is based solely on reproductive biology and genetics. Men participating in women’s sports not only is demeaning and dangerous to women and girls, but it erodes the integrity of our Nation’s civil rights laws. Congress’s affirmative vote on this bill would complement both federal court rulings and President Trump’s February 5, 2025, Executive Order, ‘Keeping Men Out of Women’s Sports.’”

    Senator Tuberville’s legislation will get a vote in the Senate this evening.

    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP, and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Tuberville Joins “America Reports” as Senate Takes up his Bill to Protect Female Athletes

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama)

    “This is not a Democrat or Republican issue.”

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined “America Reports” on Fox to discuss tonight’s Senate vote on the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act, his legislation to permanently codify Title IX protections. 

    The U.S. House of Representatives recently passed Senator Tuberville’s legislation on a 218-206 bipartisan vote. 

    Excerpts from Senator Tuberville’s interview can be found below, and the full interview can be found on YouTube or Rumble.

    ROBERTS: “The Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act gets a vote on the Senate floor later on today. This bill would set a stronger precedent to keep trans athletes out of women’s sports, and states who don’t comply would face consequences. At least seven Democrats will need to get on board for it to pass a filibuster. Let’s bring in Senator Tommy Tuberville, the Alabama senator who introduced the bill. So do you have seven Democrats out there who care enough about protecting women in sports to join with Republicans?” 

    TUBERVILLE: “Well John, I would hope so, but it’s a heavy lift. This is the third time—third time I’ve had it on the floor. I’ve gotten one Democrat vote—that was Joe Manchin—obviously, he’s gone, but we’re getting to a point now where women and girls’ sports are getting ready to be extinct. […] Hopefully, we can get something done today, but President Trump’s Executive Order is only going to last John, four years. After that, it’ll probably go the other way. ”

    ROBERTS: “Yep. So, here’s where the American people stand on this issue according to a recent New York Times/ Ipsos poll. Seventy-nine percent of all Americans believe that transgender athletes should not be allowed in women’s sports. Ninety-four percent of Republicans believe that, 67 percent of Democrats. So, the tide would seem to be in your favor.”

    TUBERVILLE: “Well, you’d think so, but when you have the Democratic party believe that men can get pregnant, you know you’ve got problems. And it’s such a gender—attack on gender up here, John. […]”

    ROBERTS: “Yeah, so Riley Gaines really illuminated what’s going on here with her support for the bill. She said, ‘With the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act now being heard on the Senate floor, we’re one step closer to ensuring that women no longer lose trophies, roster spots, playing time, scholarships, or fair competition to men in their own sport.’ This really is a one-way street. We don’t hear a lot about biological women going into men’s sports and blowing away the competition. This is all about biological men going into women’s sports, taking spots from women, taking championships from women, and not allowing women who have spent their entire lives trying to compete for these top prizes to really do what they’re trained to do.”

    TUBERVILLE: “And I talk to Democrats, John, and I say, ‘What do you not understand here?’ and they say, ‘Well, it’s gotta be fair.’ Wait a minute—fair? You’re gonna do away with women’s sports is what you’re going to do. […] President Trump did this Executive Order and people are defying it already. NCAA says, ‘We’re not going to let them compete, but we’re gonna let them practice, in dressing rooms, and shower with girls. NCAA has lost their damn mind. We have to get back to common sense in this country, especially when it comes to something like this because this will grow year, and year, and year out, and we have to do something for the women and girls in sports, and give them a chance to learn leadership and time restraint, work ethic and all those things. […]”

    ROBERTS: “Yeah, so we talked about the tide being with you in terms of where the American public opinion is. Janet Mills, who is the Maine governor, continues to swim against that tide. She had the dust-up with the President last week. Here’s what she said, she’s fundraising off of her spat with the President, saying, ‘I want to make one thing clear: Maine will not be intimidated by the president’s threats. The work to push back against Trump and his agenda begins at the state level. Can you donate $10 to the Maine democratic Party to make sure they have the resources to fight for our state?’ This is a state that had a biological boy who was a mediocre athlete go into a women’s division and blow away the competition, so what is she defending?”

    TUBERVILLE: “Well, first of all, this is not a Democrat or Republic issue. This is an American and equal rights issue. And again, this governor has no right to defy Number One, President Trump, but Number Two take away the right of young girls to work hard to take that opportunity that this country gives to do the best you can in sports…I coached 40 years. You learn work ethic, you learn time, you learn how to work with other people, you learn how to win, you learn how to lose. You learn how to do all those things together, but again, they want to do away with women’s sports for some reason.”

    ROBERTS: “Senator, we’ll be watching later today to see if it can break the filibuster and how many Democrats come over. We thank you for your time, Coach.”

    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you.”

    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP, and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: The US and UK have decimated their aid spending. Australia has a unique opportunity to help fill the vacuum

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Melissa Conley Tyler, Honorary Fellow, Asia Institute, The University of Melbourne

    Hard on the heels of Donald Trump’s dismantling of USAID, the United Kingdom has ripped more than A$12 billion (£6 billion) from its foreign assistance budget.

    The double hit from two of the globe’s biggest contributors to international development has been branded a betrayal of poorer countries that will cost lives.

    What does this mean for Australia as we head towards the federal election?

    Australia is different

    Australia’s aid context is strikingly different.

    International development is deeply integrated in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and can’t easily be pulled apart. There is no separate aid agency to target.

    Recent experience also reminds us why it is unwise to cut overseas assistance. When the Abbott government made major cuts to development spending, other actors including China quickly filled the vacuum throughout the Pacific.

    Most importantly, more than 20 of Australia’s regional neighbours are developing countries. This means an adequate overseas aid budget is non-negotiable if we want to exert influence throughout the region.

    At a minimum, both the Labor Party and the Coalition should commit to maintaining current levels of development assistance.

    If you want to see how every dollar of Australia’s overseas aid is being spent, you can visit the transparency portal on the DFAT website. The portal outlines each investment, which includes peace building in Sri Lanka, countering people trafficking in Vietnam, preventing foot and mouth disease in Indonesia, and disaster preparedness across the Pacific.

    This is cost-effective spending: dealing with the aftermath of a crisis is massively more expensive than the relatively small outlays needed to prevent them from happening in the first place. By way of contrast, the budget for defence is $48 billion each year compared to less than $5 billion for preventive spending on development.

    New opportunities

    Initial reaction to the severe foreign aid cuts focused on how China and Russia could benefit from the void left by Washington and London. But it is now being recognised that their shortsightedness may provide a golden geopolitical opportunity for Australia.

    It is an opportunity that could be seized upon by whoever wins the election.

    Think back to the Boxing Day tsunami, when John Howard’s response transformed the relationship with Indonesia and led to the formation of the Quad grouping.

    When the US withdrew from the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement in 2017, Japan stepped up and showed the leadership needed to conclude negotiations. With Australia’s support, the deal went ahead and is now one of the largest free-trade agreements in the world. Major achievements can still be made even without the involvement of the US.

    We are now faced with a similar moment. While Australia cannot compete with the scale of US and UK international development, there is much it can do across the region and throughout the broader global system.

    What Australia can do

    If Australia was to think big, it would announce that it will elevate funding for overseas aid from its current level of 0.68% of the federal budget to 1% over the next two to three years.

    This would generate positive worldwide coverage and differentiate Australia for a relatively small investment. John Howard, Kevin Rudd and Julia Gillard were all able to keep the international development budget at more than 1%, so it’s not impossible.

    There is a perception that a much larger slice of the budget pie currently goes to development assistance. The average Australian believes we spend 14% of the budget helping out our neighbours. In reality the outlay is less than 70 cents per $100.

    Even a smaller increase for emergency funding could be very meaningful. The impact of the US 90-day pause on foreign assistance has been immediate, with charities and contractors left with no income and forced to let staff go and shutter offices. There is a real risk some international aid charities won’t survive the freeze. Emergency funding is needed to stave off collapse and stop the loss of specialist skills.

    At the global level, Australia could help to maintain the essential humanitarian work of organisations like the World Food Programme, UNAIDS, UNHCR and the World Health Organisation, which may face existential funding crises.

    Australia’s national interest

    Australia’s security, stability and prosperity depend on both the region and cultivating wider relationships.

    We could use this moment to partner with critical countries in the Pacific and South East Asia to preserve the programs most at risk. Australia could also build deeper relationships with other donors like Japan, South Korea, India, Indonesia, Canada, and EU members and institutions.

    There are many competing priorities in the budget process, so foreign aid is never an easy sell. But there will be international praise for Australian leadership, including from the US and the UK, if Australian aid helps maintain Western presence in key geopolitical arenas. It would be a diplomatic win and very much in Australia’s interest.

    Now is the time for Australia to announce the steps it will take to preserve and even increase development aid as one of the key tools of statecraft to create a world that Australians want to live in.

    Melissa Conley Tyler is Executive Director at the Asia-Pacific Development, Diplomacy & Defence Dialogue (AP4D), an initiative funded by the foreign affairs and defence portfolios and hosted by the Australian Council for International Development..

    – ref. The US and UK have decimated their aid spending. Australia has a unique opportunity to help fill the vacuum – https://theconversation.com/the-us-and-uk-have-decimated-their-aid-spending-australia-has-a-unique-opportunity-to-help-fill-the-vacuum-251156

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Graham Statement After Democrats Block Legislation To Protect Women’s Sport

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Lindsey Graham

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today made this statement after Senate Democrats blocked the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act of 2025.

    Graham is a cosponsor of the bill, originally introduced by U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Alabama), that would preserve Title IX protections for female athletes and allow safe and fair competition in women’s sports in the U.S. by preventing the participation of biological men.

    “Clearly the radical Left still controls Democrat Senators.

    “Apparently they have learned nothing from the last election and have chosen to oppose protecting girls and women from playing sports with biological males as their hill to die on.

    “There is a reason 80 percent of Americans do not want girls and women playing against biological males. It is dangerous and unfair.

    “I will continue to support President Trump and Coach Tuberville’s efforts to protect girls and women’s sports.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Capito, Colleagues Request Policy Clarifications from NCAA on Biological Males in Women’s Locker Rooms

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) joined a group of her Republican colleagues in sending a letter—led by U.S. Senator Jim Justice (R-W.Va.)—to NCAA President Charlie Baker, urging the organization to clarify its stance on the privacy and safety of female athletes in women’s changing rooms.
    “In response to President Trump’s order, the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) updated its student-athlete participation policy to bar biological male students from participating in women’s sports. We commend the NCAA’s quick action to comply with President Trump’s order and write to encourage the NCAA to take additional steps to protect the safety and privacy of female athletes nationwide,” the senators wrote.
    In addition to Senators Capito and Justice, the letter was signed by Senators Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), James Risch (R-Idaho), and Jim Banks (R-Ind.).
    Read the full letter below or by clicking HERE.
    Dear President Baker,
    On February 5, 2025, President Donald J. Trump issued an executive order-Keeping Men Out of Women’s Sports- to strengthen Title IX and protect opportunities for biological female athletes to compete in safe and fair sports. After the Biden-Harris administration’s assault on Title IX in its efforts to allow biologically male athletes who identify as female to compete in women’s sports, this order came as a sigh of relief to millions of female athletes across the country who desire equal opportunity to engage in competitive athletics.
    In response to President Trump’s order, the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) updated its student-athlete participation policy to bar biological male students from participating in women’s sports. We commend the NCAA’s quick action to comply with President Trump’s order and write to encourage the NCAA to take additional steps to protect the safety and privacy of female athletes nationwide.
    The NCAA’s new policy makes clear that biological male student-athletes may not compete on a women’s team. We could not be more supportive of this essential policy change. The NCAA’s policy guarantees that biological male athletes who practice with female athletes will “receive all other benefits applicable to student-athletes who are otherwise eligible for practice.” There is an opportunity to clarify that these guarantees do not include access to facilities that would undermine the privacy and safety of female athletes–such as women’s locker rooms or other female-only spaces— which the President’s order made clear should be protected. We ask that the NCAA consider adding language to its policy that explicitly bars biological male athletes from female-only spaces and to consider adopting additional privacy protections for women and girls in sports.
    We also applaud the NCAA’s policy defining “sex assigned at birth” as the male or female designation that doctors assign to infants at birth, which is marked on their birth records–e.g. birth certificate. Publicly, the NCAA has affirmed that biological male athletes may not compete on a women’s team with amended birth certificates or by other documentary means. The NCAA’s public stance on this issue is commendable, and its policy could go a step further and explicitly state that amended birth certificates are prohibited.
    We stand in support of President Trump’s unparallel actions to protect the safety and privacy of female athletes across the country. The NCAA’s efforts are likewise respectable, and we look forward to working with you to ensure women and girls have equal opportunity in athletics.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Executive Director Of Non-Profit Serving Oakland Youth Charged With Embezzling Funds, Evading Taxes

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    OAKLAND – Howard Solomon, 38, of Oakland, has been charged with mail fraud and tax evasion in connection with an alleged scheme to defraud his former employer, the East Oakland Boxing Association, a non-profit organization that provides internship, mentoring, programming, and services, including boxing lessons and coaching, to children in East Oakland.  Solomon made an initial appearance in federal district court in Oakland this morning.

    According to the criminal information filed on Feb. 26, 2025, Solomon was employed as the executive director of the East Oakland Boxing Association from approximately 2017 until April 2021.  As the Executive Director, Solomon’s responsibilities included managing daily operations, soliciting contributions and fundraising, managing program and staff, overseeing budget and finances, and community outreach.  Solomon was a signatory to the non-profit’s bank accounts and had unfettered access to its bank accounts and debit cards directly linked to those accounts.

    During his tenure as executive director, Solomon allegedly engaged in a scheme to embezzle money and property from the non-profit to pay for items for personal use, including Amazon purchases, a vacation rental property, and a Ford Explorer.  The information also charges Solomon with embezzling and depositing into a personal account a $50,000 donation made to the East Oakland Boxing Association in connection with a December 2019 appearance by Stephen Curry and Ayesha Curry on the Ellen DeGeneres Show for a segment known as “Ellen’s Greatest Night of Giveaways,” during which the Currys delivered gifts and a $50,000 donation check to the non-profit.  

    The information also charges Solomon with owing more federal income tax than was declared due on his federal income tax returns and filing false and fraudulent income tax returns for tax years 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021.

    Solomon is charged with one count of mail fraud under 18 U.S.C. § 1341 and four counts of tax evasion under 26 U.S.C. § 7201.  At his initial appearance this morning, Solomon agreed to waive indictment by a grand jury.  He is next scheduled to appear on April 9, 2025, for a status hearing before U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers.

    A criminal information merely alleges that crimes have been committed, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.  If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000 or twice the value of the property involved in the transactions for the count of mail fraud and five years in prison and a fine of $100,000 for each count of tax evasion.  Any sentence following conviction would be imposed by the court only after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of a sentence, 18 U.S.C. § 3553.

    Acting United States Attorney Patrick D. Robbins and IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) Special Agent in Charge of the Oakland Field Office Linda Nguyen made the announcement.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Tom Green is prosecuting this case with the assistance of Amala James.  This prosecution is the result of an investigation by IRS-CI.

    Howard Solomon Information
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Sky News Regional Breakfast interview with Rhiannon Elston

    Source: Australian Executive Government Ministers

    RHIANNON ELSTON [HOST]: The Albanese Government has announced it will invest $6 million to improve 11 regional airports in Queensland. The money will be used to upgrade facilities at Hervey Bay, Roma and Gladstone airports and Gympie and Stanthorpe aerodromes as well. Joining me live is Queensland Senator and Assistant Minister for Regional Development Anthony Chisholm. Very good morning to you and we’ll get to that announcement in just a moment. But you’re in Hervey Bay right now as I understand it. How’s the weather looking?

    ANTHONY CHISHOLM [ASSISTANT MINISTER]: Well, it actually looks quite calm here today, Rhiannon. So there’s a bit of a breeze. But I was in Yeppoon yesterday and Hervey Bay today. So I’ve been tracking some of those early towns that were in the path of the cyclone, and they’ve all been taking advice and preparing as best they can. It seems now the risk is further south of here. So I will be heading down to Brisbane later today. But I do get a sense that Queenslanders are taking the advice and preparing as best they can, and the Federal Government are obviously working constructively with the Queensland Government to ensure that we’re as best prepared as possible.

    RHIANNON ELSTON: Okay. The Federal Government has announced more funding for regional airport upgrades across Queensland, but Western Australia and Victoria as well. What exactly is being promised?

    ANTHONY CHISHOLM: We know that for a country as big as ours that we rely on aircrafts to get around and we need good quality airports and aerodromes in regional and rural Australia. So that’s what this fund is about. It’s about improving safety, whether that be some places they need good fencing to keep some of the animals out. Others around Gladstone, it’s about a patient transfer facility so that they can get people who may need to travel to Brisbane for medical emergencies. And also upgrading tarmacs and so forth, so that they can be resilient all year round from flooding. So it’s an important program and one that is very popular in regional Australia. And I’m really pleased to be in Hervey Bay today to announce their successful bid for funding around their airport as well.

    RHIANNON ELSTON: Speaking about regional airports and airlines, what about Rex Airlines? Is there any update on what the government plans to do there?

    ANTHONY CHISHOLM: No, it’s obviously a very complex process that’s going through at the moment. We work constructively to ensure that those regional flights were maintained and that regional Australians had the confidence to book an airline ticket, knowing that Rex would continue to fly. I travel to many parts of regional Australia and it’s often only Rex that fly there, so we want to see that second round bid be successful and someone take ownership of Rex. But we understand how important it is and want to see that service continue for regional Australia.

    RHIANNON ELSTON: Yeah. Rex collapsed in part because it couldn’t compete with Jetstar. Now we see Qantas as well investing regionally, bringing more of its Q400 fleet which will increase capacity on some routes. Would the government investing in Rex mean propping it up as well? And is that the best use of taxpayer dollars?

    ANTHONY CHISHOLM: We’ve been clear. We want to see that second round successful in terms of someone taking ownership of Rex. You go to many parts of regional Queensland and indeed regional Australia, and they do pay a lot in airfares. So I think it is important to ensure that we have the right mix of competition to try and keep airfares down. But the reality is for many of the towns that these Rex cover, they are the only ones that fly there. So it’s important that we recognise that. And as a federal government, we want to ensure that service continues. Often when you’re flying Rex, you’ll be seeing an elderly person who is travelling to the city for healthcare, for instance. So that sort of work that Rex does is really important for regional Australia. That’s why the Federal Government wants to ensure that it continues.

    RHIANNON ELSTON: Okay. We just had the member for Hinchinbrook, Nick Dametto, on the program a short time ago. Now, he said the Federal Government’s flood recovery grant system has failed in North Queensland. Many people have been denied payments and neighbours are split on who can get a flood recovery payment and who can’t. Is he right that the system has failed?

    ANTHONY CHISHOLM: I know that Minister McAllister was working really constructively with the Queensland State government, was visiting regularly. I’m sure- I’m happy, I know Nick well. I’d be happy to follow up with Nick and have a chat to him to ensure that we’ve got the best possible advice about what’s happening on the ground. Obviously, Queensland is a big state. It’s impossible to be everywhere, but we want to ensure that we’re doing our part to support those people who have been impacted by weather events up in North Queensland. I know that it does have a devastating impact on communities and we need to be there for the long term, so if there are things we can learn and improve from that, I’d be more than happy to have a chat with Nick about that.

    RHIANNON ELSTON: Okay. Anthony Chisholm, thank you so much for your time this morning.

    ANTHONY CHISHOLM: No worries, Rhiannon. Thank you.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: ABC Capricornia Breakfast interview with Jeremy Jones

    Source: Australian Executive Government Ministers

    JEREMY JONES [HOST]: Well, Senator Anthony Chisholm is in Rockhampton this week. He is the Assistant Minister for Education, Regional Development and Agriculture, and I caught up with him yesterday.

    ANTHONY CHISHOLM [ASSISTANT MINISTER]: We’re helping to open the Keppel Bay Sailing Club new headquarters, which- I’ve seen pictures, it looks absolutely fantastic. And I’m sure it will be a great addition to that community, but also provides opportunity as part of a convention centre that will hopefully drive some more business tourism to the area, which will be fantastic. And then we’re announcing some money for the Rockhampton Council to expand more housing opportunities in this area. So I know that there’s high growth, there’s a lot of people who want to move here, so we want to work with councils where possible to ensure that we can free up land for development. Good for jobs, but also good for those people who want to find a place to live as well.

    JEREMY JONES: That’s exciting that you’re going to be heading to Keppel Bay. We heard a proposal before that they’ve put in to host the sailing for the 2032 Olympics. As Assistant Regional Development Minister, what do you make of that? Do you- would you like to see the Olympics held regionally?

    ANTHONY CHISHOLM: I certainly think that we need to ensure that there’s a strong regional footprint. So we know that the substance of the Olympics will be based in South East Queensland, but I’m really passionate about being an Olympics for the whole of the state and the whole of the country as well. So I think that we should encourage, where possible and where practicable, that we have as many events spread around the state as possible so that all Queenslanders can feel part of it.

    JEREMY JONES: Is that something the Federal Government would support, to see events outside of Brisbane?

    ANTHONY CHISHOLM: The way it works so far is that we’ve contributed some financial backing for some of the facilities. That process is being led by the State Government, though, so we’re always willing to discuss proposals that they put forward, but they’re the lead agency on this. But we want to see a successful Olympics. I want to see that from a Queensland point of view. But we think there’s enormous opportunity for how we position the country – Queensland’s going to be a key beneficiary of that.

    JEREMY JONES: So exciting. And moving as well, another announcement that we’re set to see about $1 million for the Gladstone Airport Corporation to construct a fit for purpose patient transfer facility. What’s going on there?

    ANTHONY CHISHOLM: Yeah. So the Regional Airport upgrades fund is one that we’ve had running for a while now, and this is the latest round that has supported nine airports across regional Queensland, including Gladstone. What we know is that in regional Australia and regional Queensland, our airports aren’t only convenient – there actually can be a matter of life and death, and they do provide that facility. So part of the money for Gladstone was providing a patient transfer facility. It’s one that sort of is fit for purpose and can help that community. And the upgrades right across the state go to safety and flooding and lighting so that these airports can be used 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

    JEREMY JONES: We caught up with Gladstone Airport Corporation CEO Mark Cachia, who was chatting about this last week. This is what he had to say.

    [Excerpt]

    MARK CACHIA [GLADSTONE AIRPORT CORPORATION CEO]: It’s about a $5 million upgrade of the- you know, including the building of the facility, and upgrading of the apron area. Being in a regional town, finding medical specialists is very difficult. Most of the time, whenever there’s a speciality needed for surgery or treatment and it’s urgent, most patients need to go out in the Air Ambulance and head back to- head to Brisbane to find a specialist. So it’s- look, it’s quite vital for the region.

    [End of excerpt]

    JEREMY JONES: He certainly says that it is needed there, but mentioned the price tag of $5 million there. Will it be able to go ahead with just $1 million?

    ANTHONY CHISHOLM: Obviously the department will be in discussions with the council about ensuring that we- how we can best support that program. They often have to put in a submission that’s assessed by the department, and they do that on a merits-based approach, so I’m confident that they’ll be able to achieve what they’ve set out to achieve. But there’s always an openness from the Government to ensure that we’re working constructively with councils. And I imagine that story that they’re telling would be a similar one across many parts of regional Queensland.

    JEREMY JONES: You’re hearing from Senator Anthony Chisholm, who’s in Rocky this week. He’s the Assistant Minister for Education, Regional Development and Agriculture, and of course, the election coming up. How are you feeling about it for Labor?

    ANTHONY CHISHOLM: [Laughs] No, I always enjoy election campaigns because they’re an opportunity to get out and about across this great state of Queensland. Being a senator, I’m actually not up for election this time, but certainly will be out supporting the Queensland Labor Senate team and our fantastic candidates like Emily Mawson here in Capricornia, and right up and down the coast as well.

    JEREMY JONES: Are you confident?

    ANTHONY CHISHOLM: Well, I think- you’re never confident in this game, but I feel as though for the last three years we’ve put forward responsible cost of living relief, we’ve delivered on our promises, and we’re offering a vision for the future. And I think that there’s a good contrast between what an Albanese Labor Government stands for, compared to what a Dutton Liberal National Party government would mean with cuts to services. So I think there’s going to be a real contrast at this election campaign, and we’ll be out there prosecuting that case between now and whenever that election date is. Jeremy.

    JEREMY JONES: Well, Senator, thanks for joining us this morning.

    ANTHONY CHISHOLM: Thank you.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Critical funding locked in to deliver Para-Sport Unit at NSWIS

    Source: New South Wales Government 2

    Headline: Critical funding locked in to deliver Para-Sport Unit at NSWIS

    Published: 4 March 2025

    Released by: Minister for Disability Inclusion, Minister for Sport

    The Minns Labor government is today announcing $2.305 million investment towards the formation of the New South Wales Institute of Sport (NSWIS) Para Unit. 

    The NSWIS Para Unit will provide a landing place for aspiring Paralympians. It will create opportunities for holistic development and progression focusing on increased participation in sport, and the number of NSW athletes selected to compete for Australia at major international para events. 

    The funding will be used to: 

    • break down the 160 systemic barriers that have been identified as deterring potential para-athletes from entering, and progressing, in sport
    • guide more para-athletes into sport to increase participation numbers and, consequently, the talent pool for international sport
    • identify talent
    • employ specialised para-coaches and support staff
    • increase opportunities to gain classifications to compete nationally and internationally, and to enter high performance pathway
    • assist para-athletes to overcome the difficulties they encounter when travelling to domestic and international competitions. 

    NSW Minister of Sport Steve Kamper said: 

    “The Minns government believes that no athlete should be held back by barriers. 

    We’re committed to making sport accessible to all—because everyone deserves the opportunity to chase their dreams. 

    The NSWIS Para Unit will be a game-changer, providing a clear pathway for athletes to develop their skills, find purpose, and strive for greatness. “ 

    NSW Minister for Disability Inclusion Kate Washington said: 

    “We saw just last year in Paris, how the sheer grit and determination of our Paralympians can inspire the nation and open our eyes to a more inclusive society.  

    “The NSW Government has a proud history of investing in our Paralympians and cheering them on as they do us proud on the world stage.   

    “This commitment will ensure people with disability have the same opportunities to reach their full potential in sport – by providing dedicated pathways, specialist coaches, and more support.” 

     NSWIS Chief Executive Officer, Professor Kevin Thompson said:

    “Young Athletes will be inspired knowing there is now a world-class, high-performance unit that’s dedicated to nurturing emerging para-athletic talent – like them – to succeed on the world stage. 

    “The funding will be used to unearth yet to be discovered para-athletes from around the state and provide them with every opportunity to experience the joy and fellowship of sport, as well as the honour and privilege of competing for Australia at the Paralympics.” 

    Paralympics Australia Chief Executive Officer Cameron Murray said: 

    “NSW has a proud tradition in Paralympic sport, having produced many of Australia’s greatest Paralympians,”  

    “We are confident the establishment of a dedicated and well-resourced NSW Para Unit at NSWIS will prove an enormous boost for current and future athletes and coaches. 

     It is exciting to think this unit will provide opportunities for up to another 40 para-athletes over the term of the current two-year contract to come into the NSW Para-sport system and help set the foundation for an era of unprecedented success. 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s ice city greets over 90 million visitors in 2024-2025 winter season

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    The craze for winter sports has fueled tourism in China’s ice city of Harbin, with the number of tourist arrivals growing 9.7 percent year on year to over 90 million during the 2024-2025 winter season.

    As one of China’s top winter tourism destinations, Harbin, the capital of northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, saw its tourism sector rake in 137.22 billion yuan (about 19 billion U.S. dollars) from Nov. 8, 2024, to Feb. 28, 2025, up 16.6 percent year on year, according to Harbin’s culture and tourism bureau.

    The number of international visitors to Harbin, in particular, surged 94.2 percent compared to the last winter season, driven by an influx of tourists from Russia, Japan, the Republic of Korea and ASEAN countries, the bureau said.

    Harbin has ignited a fervor for ice and snow tourism on Chinese social media this winter, since the opening of the 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival on Jan. 5.

    Attractions such as Harbin Ice-Snow World, the Sun Island International Snow Sculpture Art Expo, Central Avenue, St. Sophia Cathedral and the Siberian Tiger Park, alongside the festival, were among the most popular tourist destinations. Notably, Harbin Ice-Snow World welcomed a record-breaking 3.56 million visitors during its 68 days of operations.

    The ninth Asian Winter Games and a series of test events held in Harbin also contributed to the tourism surge. The city has built more than 500 ice-and-snow sports venues, and 15 local ski resorts have upgraded their facilities, entertaining spectators and athletes from around the world.

    Cultural venues such as the Harbin Museum and the Exhibition Hall of Evidences of Crime Committed by Unit 731 of the Japanese Imperial Army also experienced increased visitor traffic.

    China has unveiled an ambitious plan to develop its ice and snow economy as a new economic driver, targeting a total market size of 1.2 trillion yuan by 2027 and 1.5 trillion yuan by 2030, according to a guideline released by the State Council in 2024.

    Leveraging the opportunity, Harbin is implementing a slew of market regulation and tourist guidance measures to continue optimizing its tourism experience, unleashing greater economic momentum for its ice and snow resources.

    MIL OSI China News –