Category: Tourism

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murkowski Highlights Opportunities, Challenges with Interior Budget Request

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Lisa Murkowski
    05.22.25
    Washington, DC – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Chair of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies, hosted the Secretary of the Interior in subcommittee to discuss the Department’s budget request. The Senator reinforced her appreciation for the administration’s approach to resource development in Alaska, while also addressing staffing concerns, public land sales, and other avenues of potential for the department.
    Watch the Senator’s opening statement here.
    Read the Senator’s full opening statement below.
    FULL TRANSCRIPT
    Senator Murkowski: Good to have you here to discuss the President’s Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Request for the Department of the Interior. I’m pleased to have the opportunity today to talk about the important work that the Department does, including its leading role in supporting America’s energy agenda, empowering Indian country and Tribal nations, providing recreational opportunities to tens of millions of Americans, and generating billions of dollars in economic output.
    It’s been a real pleasure, I have appreciated the meetings that we’ve had, the conversations that we’ve had by phone, and it’s been great to meet the various Assistant Secretary nominees from the Department. I’ve enjoyed our conversations there. I’m impressed by their understanding of the issues that they focus on, and their commitment to public service.
    You’re building out quite the team. It was great to be able to talk to Kate MacGregor. She has a little bit of history with the Department, and comes with a lot of knowledge and understanding, certainly on Alaska–related issues, so we were glad to get her confirmed and to work as well as some of the other nominees. As the Chairman of the Indian Affairs Committee, we’re anxious to have a nominee for the [Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs] as well.
    So, I want to thank you, I want to thank President Trump for recognizing Alaska’s amazing natural resource potential. This was very significant in the day-one executive order: everything from the Ambler Road to the NPR-A, to non-wilderness Coastal Plain, Alaska
    LNG. There’s been very swift, very early, and decisive action in this space. It’s welcome both here in Washington, DC, and certainly in my state. So, I’m looking forward to working with you to further facilitate the development of Alaska’s resources.
    I know you are looking forward to going to Alaska in just a couple weeks. Hopefully, it’s going to be a great trip, lots of good information, good feedback, and good weather. I’m hopeful that Denali will be out in all of its majesty and splendor and you’ll be reminded why Alaskans prefer the Koyukon-Athabascan name, “Denali,” meaning ‘the Great One.’
    The President and you have set out an ambitious agenda, particularly with respect to the focus on energy and economic development. I’m very supportive of this endeavor, and know that I want to be your partner in achieving so many of the goals.
    Beyond resource development, the Department of the Interior can be an economic force for good in many different ways. One of the most important economic drivers that we see up in Alaska, aside from the resource end of things, within the Department is the National Parks System. The National Parks in the home states of the members on this subcommittee generate a collective $7.4 billion of economic output annually. That’s more than the gross domestic product of 40 different countries. But it’s not just the economic output that makes parks so important, it’s the experiences of traveling to parks, seeing the wildlife, having an adventure that creates a lifetime of memories. And, we’ve had discussions about some of your early years and the significance of that.
    Back home in Alaska, we’ve already had about 150,000 people come through on cruise ships this year. That might not surprise other people, but this is early for us. We estimate a total of 1.65 million visitors for the tourism season – that’s about double the population of our state. So, when we see a skinny budget that proposes to cut $1.2 billion or 35% from the Park Service, it’s hard to square it with the claims that DOI is focused on fostering the American economy, again recognizing that our economy is more than just our natural resource development.
    Another area of concern that I will address in my questions within the National Park Service budget proposal is the concept of turning over management of National Parks to the states. I’m trying to figure out exactly how this would work, and I’m kind of thinking it’s like me putting my kids in charge of the upkeep for the house that I own. In some instances, it might make good sense, but as a wholesale best practice I worry about how that might impact the parks or our people. So, should this concept be included in the full budget request, I’d hope that we have a really thorough conversation with you to better understand the justification for the proposal.
    I am concerned about what the skinny budget proposes for the BIA and the BIE. Cutting nearly $1 billion from Indian Affairs would hurt the federal government’s ability to meet its trust responsibility to Native people. In some of our conversations, I’ve shared some of the areas where I think the Department has failed Indian Country, and this is in areas like probate, where we have an extraordinary backlog, public safety and justice, missing and murdered indigenous people, as well as the education of Native American children.
    While I appreciate that the skinny budget alleges that proposed cuts would enable Tribes to focus on law enforcement, I’m not sure how reducing BIA law enforcement funding by $107 million is treating the program as a core priority of Tribes. I know, because I hear Tribes have been requesting more support for this program to address a serious lack of policing, so I worry that cuts of this magnitude can’t be made up for by directing Tribes to apply for grants at DOJ as the skinny budget suggests.
    I want to end my opening comments this morning by talking about what I consider to be, and I know that you put equal priority to, and that’s the men and women of the Department. The people who actually make things happen.
    We’ve talked about a lot of good ideas for using new systems, IT systems, artificial intelligence, how we can make the Department more efficient. These are good goals, worthy goals, and I hope to see that detailed more in the budget. But I think we know when we’re talking about management of our public lands, if you don’t have the necessary staff, whether out in the field or in the headquarters, all the investments that we want to make become less efficient.
    When I think about the Executive Order as it relates specifically to Alaska, we’ve got some good things that we want to do up north when it comes to resource development, but scientific and ecological assessments that are provided by USGS are relied upon by not just federal land management agencies, but by the industry as well. USGS science helps avoid polar bear dens, identify permafrost, map caribou migration patterns. So, when we see cuts to USGS, but also BLM, BOEM, BSSE, and OSMRE, it causes me to wonder, are we going to be able to accomplish what we’re all seeking to accomplish together?
    I think it’s important also that people have expertise and knowledge about the places that they serve. I had this conversation with folks in the Forest Service. You just can’t take somebody who maybe comes from Indianapolis, a good Forest Service person, but you put them out at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitors Center where their job is bear management and they don’t have a clue about bear management.
    We want to make sure that we’re making good and smart decisions. I know you’re probably going to get a lot of questions today about staffing cuts, and how that is going to impact the operations of the Department not just here in Washington, but around the country. I do wish that the Acting Assistant Secretary for Policy, Management, and Budget, Mr. Hassan, [was] here today to answer some of these questions because he seems to be in charge of making a lot of the decisions about the staffing and the [reorganization]. I’m hoping that he is going to be in a position to be more responsive to my staff about some of the questions that we have raised. But ultimately, and you know, you’ve been a governor you know the buck stops with you. He can be responsible for certain things, but ultimately it is you that is accountable.
    So, getting the answers to questions about the reorganizations, the impacts of RIFs, how the Department will operate National Parks, protect reserves, and implement the President’s energy agenda. Getting this channel of communication going back and forth in a good and a constructive way, I think is going to be important. But, my bottom line to you this morning is [that] I’m I pleased with your nomination, I’m excited that you are there at the Department.
    I’m really excited about the shift that we’re seeing in Alaska where the Department has really gone from being a problem to being a partner in so many different areas. So, [I’m] looking forward to what we’re going to be able to do together.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: THE PCH IS REOPENING: Governor Newsom, local partners will reopen the iconic roadway ahead of schedule and in time for Memorial Day Weekend

    Source: US State of California 2

    May 22, 2025

    What you need to know: The Pacific Coast Highway, which was closed following the Palisades Fire, will reopen to public travel ahead of schedule this Friday in advance of Memorial Day Holiday. 

    LOS ANGELES – Following through on his commitment to reopen a critical stretch of highway that connects beach communities and businesses in Los Angeles in time for the busy summer season, Governor Gavin Newsom today announced that State Route 1/Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) will reopen to all drivers at 8 a.m. Friday, May 23, in time for the Memorial Day weekend. 

    The opening comes ahead of schedule for the “end of May” deadline set by the Governor last month and with up to two lanes in each direction available to travelers. The roadway had previously only been open to first responders, construction crews and local residents. 

    “In California, we get stuff done, period. We’re opening the PCH back up early, with more lanes before Angelenos hit the road this Memorial Day. We are able to do this thanks to the tireless work of hundreds of construction and road crews and with help from our partners at the Army Corps of Engineers.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    The race to reopen the highway and clear parcels along the Pacific Ocean was performed in close coordination with local partners from the City and County of Los Angeles. All parties worked urgently to support local businesses who rely on summer visitors and tourism for critical revenue. 

    A robust security presence will remain at the neighborhood level following the highway reopening. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has directed LAPD to continue its increased deployment in the Palisades, including staffing check points 24 hours a day. 

    “The reopening of Pacific Coast Highway marks an important step forward in our recovery effort in the Palisades, which is on track to be the fastest in state history,” said Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. “I thank Governor Newsom, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and partners at all levels of government for their partnership and collaboration as we work around the clock to get families home and businesses reopened. As Pacific Coast Highway reopens, we will continue to protect the safety and security of Palisades neighborhoods through a strict security plan established in coordination with the State. All of us have a shared goal – to ensure residents can safely and quickly rebuild and return to their community. We will continue working together toward that goal and recommit to clearing any barrier that stands in the way of recovery.” 

    Last month, the Governor directed his Office of Emergency Services and Caltrans to work closely with the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to prioritize the cleanup of parcels along PCH by surging additional crews into the area so that these parcels can be cleared of debris quickly. 

    With the busy summer months along the coast fast approaching, crews have worked around the clock – literally 24/7 – to demolish the damaged and collapsed homes, remove toxic ash and soot, repair the roadways, and install new utility equipment. 

    “I’m grateful to Governor Newsom and the State for their unwavering partnership in keeping the Pacific Palisades safe over the past four and a half months. The reopening of PCH marks an important milestone in our recovery, but the work is far from over. As we enter this next phase, safety must remain our top priority — for residents, workers, and everyone traveling along the coast. I look forward to continuing this collaboration as we accelerate our rebuilding work.” said Los Angeles City Councilwoman Traci Park, who represents the Palisades. 

    “Instead of having to hang a u-turn on PCH, Angelenos can now ‘hang ten’ with Malibu businesses and residents. I want to offer a big thanks to federal, state, and local partners who made this happen!” said Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin. 

    “I’m grateful for the men and women who have worked day-in and day-out to get us to this point and the support from the Administration and local partners that has helped make this recovery effort move quickly. The reopening of PCH is an important milestone that will relieve badly impacted businesses and help impacted communities get back on their feet,” said State Senator Ben Allen.

    “As we recover from the Palisades Fire, Governor Newsom’s reopening of PCH marks an important step in reconnecting our communities. Safety remains our top priority. Our Sheriff’s Department will have elevated patrols to ensure that both our unincorporated communities and the City of Malibu receive the public safety support needed during this transition. We must stay vigilant as debris removal and recovery efforts continue,” said Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath. 

    “I’m extremely proud of our teams and partners whose relentless dedication has led to the successful completion of more than 5,500 properties—representing over half of all currently eligible properties in both areas impacted by these devastating wildfires. Clearing critical areas along the Pacific Coast Highway has been particularly vital, given its sensitive ecological importance and its role as a lifeline for local communities. This effort exemplifies our unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and community resilience,” said Brig. Gen. William Hannan, Commanding General, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Task Force Phoenix.

    “The reopening of Pacific Coast Highway marks an important step in Malibu’s ongoing recovery from the recent wildfires. While significant challenges remain, this development helps restore limited access for residents and travelers along the coast. We recognize the coordinated efforts by Governor Newsom’s office, Caltrans, the LA County Sheriff’s Department, the Army Corps of Engineers, and the National Guard in addressing fire debris removal. Their involvement has contributed to making this reopening possible, though much work lies ahead. The City remains focused on ensuring public safety as we enter the summer season, and we continue to monitor conditions closely,” said Malibu Mayor Marianne Riggins.

    “Pacific Palisades Chamber of Commerce is deeply grateful to Governor Newsom for hastening the cleanup and reopening of Pacific Coast Highway, and to the National Guard for protecting Malibu so diligently. Opening PCH will be like the sun finally rising after a long, dark night for Malibu’s remaining businesses, which have struggled valiantly to survive. Truly this is a moment of truth. Here’s hoping visitors will drive out, ready to enjoy the gorgeous beaches and take time to shop and dine. Malibu’s iconic town is counting on it,” said Malibu Pacific Palisades Chamber CEO Barbara Bruderlin.

    “The reopening of PCH is great news for Santa Monica and all beachfront businesses. The business community is ready to welcome back everyone to stunning ocean views, culinary delights at local restaurants, peaceful getaways at coastal hotels, and loads of fun on the Santa Monica Pier. Easy access to our vibrant coastal community is critical for businesses to thrive now more than ever,” said Santa Monica Chamber CEO Judy Kruger.

    This rapid pace of reopening PCH is part of a broader effort by the state to accelerate the cleanup and recovery from the devastating LA Fires. Previously, more than 9,000 properties were cleared of hazardous materials in record time and already more than 7,600 homes sites have been cleared of ash, soot and debris across Los Angeles and 5,600 lots have been signed off. The governor has also signed numerous executive orders to expedite the rebuilding process and cut red tape on permitting. 

    As part of the cleanup on PCH and in the Pacific Palisades more than 100 USACE crews (consisting of excavators, metal crushing equipment, and dump trucks) continue working to clear parcels damaged along the PCH removing nearly 1,284 truckloads of debris per day.

    What to Expect for Travelers 

    • Be aware that repairs will continue even after two lanes in both directions are opened to the public.
    • For the safety of repair crews and first responders, drivers are asked to please use caution while driving through the area, Move Over if possible, and slow down. A 25 mile per hour speed limit will remain in effect. 
    • Due to the volume of traffic expected over the holiday weekend and ongoing construction, drivers should expect delays on PCH. Please allow extra time for travel or find an alternate route to your destination.
    • Caltrans and CHP reminds drivers that traffic fines can be doubled in an active work zone.

    To stay up to date on the latest and track progress in wildfire recovery visit: https://www.ca.gov/LAfires/

    Press releases, Recent news

    Recent news

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring May 22, 2025, as “Harvey Milk Day.”The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below: PROCLAMATIONToday, we honor Harvey Milk – a hero for not just his own community,…

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Armen Meyer, of San Francisco, has been appointed Senior Deputy Commissioner for the Division of Consumer Financial Protection at the California Department of Financial Protection and…

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Matthew Read, of Sacramento, has been appointed Chief Counsel at the Governor’s Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation. Read has been Acting Chief Counsel at the Governor’s Office of…

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Supporting New York State Arts and Culture

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced that the FY 2026 opportunity guidelines for $81.5 million in New York State Council on the Arts grants are now available for nonprofit arts and culture organizations and individual artists across New York State. Included in this grant opportunity is critically needed general operating support for organizations, which provides funding for day-to-day activities for over a thousand organizations statewide, as well as support for artists, affordable rehearsal space, folk arts apprenticeships and performing arts residencies. Grant application guidelines are available now at arts.ny.gov.

    “Here in New York, we understand the incredible benefits of our creative economy – from attracting an international audience to energizing our local communities,” Governor Hochul said. “By investing in our world-renowned arts and culture sector, we are building a healthier and more prosperous state for our residents and visitors for decades to come.”

    Prerecorded opportunity webinars will be available to view on the NYSCA website on Wednesday, May 28. Virtual office hours will be held through mid-June Registration for the webinars as well as an updated schedule will be available here.

    Guidelines for the following opportunities are available to download on the NYSCA website:

    • Support for Organizations: Provides flexible operating and programmatic funding for qualified arts and culture organizations. Awards range from $10,000 to $49,500.
    • Support for Artists: Funds creative commissions to individual artists across the state. The commission areas include Choreography, Composer, Film, Media, and New Technology, Folk and Traditional Arts, Interdisciplinary, Literature, Theater Commissions, and Visual arts. Award amount is $10,000.
    • Support for Targeted Opportunities:
      • Rehearsal and Studio Space for the Performing Arts: This funding is intended to support creative rehearsal time and organizations that provide viable and affordable space for non-profit arts groups and artists.  Awards range from $15,000 to $35,000.
        • Folk and Traditional Arts Apprenticeships: This funding provides individuals experienced in folk art with opportunities to study with master folk artists from their own community. Award amount is $10,000.
          • Performing Arts Residencies. This opportunity supports a minimum 3-consecutive-week residency by New York-based performing arts groups in a targeted area in New York State outside of the applicant’s home county and outside New York City. Awards range from $15,000 to $35,000.
          • Support for Regrants and Services: Supports funding to State Community Regrant sites — a network of regional arts and culture organizations located across the state — that leverage their local expertise to extend the impact of NYSCA’s grantmaking to artists and nonprofits as well as funding to organizations for services to the field. This opportunity is by invite only.

    The application portal will open on Thursday, May 22, 2025. The deadline to apply is Thursday, June 26, 2025, at 5 p.m. All applicants must complete the prequalification process through the Statewide Financial System before applying in the NYSCA application portal for a grant. NYSCA urges applicants to begin the prequalification process in SFS as soon as possible. Opportunities for Capital Project Grants will be announced in the fall.

    These opportunities for the arts and culture sector continue New York State’s commitment to arts and culture funding, including ongoing support for capital projects. In FY 2025, NYSCA awarded $82 million in support grants to 509 individual artists and 1,807 nonprofit organizations, as well as to $86 million in capital funding to 134 projects in every region of the state.

    New York State Council on the Arts Executive Director Erika Mallin said, “These grant opportunities underscore the Governor and Legislature’s continued dedication to investing in arts and culture. Our creative workers and arts and culture organizations create better communities for us all: bridging cultures, inspiring innovation, driving tourism and creating jobs and industry. I encourage organizations and artists from all over New York State to apply for these opportunities.”

    State Senator Jose Serrano said, “New York’s robust arts and culture sector enriches our communities, our economies, and our personal well-being. By supporting our hardworking cultural organizations and artists with this critical funding, New York will remain the epicenter of innovation and creativity worldwide.”

    Assemblymember Ron Kim said, “I encourage all of our talented artists and dedicated cultural groups across the state to apply for this critical support so they can continue delivering the measurable benefits of arts and culture to our communities and visitors. New York State looks forward to supporting and celebrating your ideas and artistry.”

    About the New York State Council on the Arts
    The mission of the New York State Council on the Arts is to foster and advance the full breadth of New York State’s arts, culture, and creativity for all. To support the ongoing recovery of the arts across New York State, the Council on the Arts will award $161 million in FY 2026, serving organizations and artists across all 10 state regions. The Council on the Arts further advances New York’s creative culture by convening leaders in the field and providing organizational and professional development opportunities and informational resources. Created by Governor Nelson Rockefeller in 1960 and continued with the support of Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature, the Council is an agency that is part of the Executive Branch. For more information on NYSCA, please visit www.arts.ny.gov, and follow NYSCA’s Facebook page, on X, formerly known as Twitter, @NYSCArts and Instagram @NYSCouncilontheArts.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján, Cruz Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Streamline Land Port of Entry Permits

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Senator for New Mexico Ben Ray Luján

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and Ted Cruz (R-Texas) introduced the International Bridge and Port of Entry Modernization Act. This legislation expedites the presidential permitting process for all international bridges and land ports of entry.

    “Ports of entry and international bridges are vital to the economic success of our border communities, supporting trade, business, and tourism. Yet, new border crossings are too often held up by the presidential permit process. I’m proud to introduce bipartisan legislation that will help streamline this process and deliver real investments to Santa Teresa and Sunland Park in New Mexico,” said Senator Luján.

    “Streamlining the permitting process for bridge infrastructure between Texas and Mexico has been a top priority of mine. This bill builds on and expands our success in securing presidential permits for four major international bridge projects in South Texas by streamlining the approval process for all future international bridges along the Texas–Mexico border. I strongly urge my colleagues to pass this bill so it can be sent to the President for signature,” said Senator Cruz.

    Specifically, the International Bridge and Port of Entry Modernization Act would:

    • Expand the scope to include all international land ports of entry along the U.S.-Mexico and U.S.-Canada borders;
    • Add the word “sole” before “basis” to clarify that the State Department should not consider other factors besides America’s foreign policy interest;
    • Include language for the State Department to not consider NEPA during their decision making for the purpose of a presidential permit. NEPA would be considered for any new international bridge or port of entry before construction or expansion.

    Read the full text of the bill here.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: More Supercars for New Zealand

    Source: Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment MBIE (2)

    Published: 23 May 2025

    The Government is investing $5.9 million from the Major Events Fund to support Supercars events in both Taupō and Christchurch for the next 3 years.

    The 2024 Taupō Supercars generated significant economic and tourism benefits for the region and New Zealand with more than 3,300 international visitors attending and spending more than $5.2 million while here. 

    Having consecutive events in Taupō and Christchurch will allow international visitors to extend their stay in New Zealand, supporting tourism in our regions.

    More information about Supercars:

    2025 Repco Supercars Championship | Supercars(external link)

    Read the Beehive press release:

    Supercars for the South Island(external link) — Beehive.govt.nz

    Last updated: 23 May 2025

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Secretary-General’s video message to the Pacific Regional Seminar of the Special Committee on Decolonization

    Source: United Nations – English

    strong>Download the video:
    https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/downloads2.unmultimedia.org/public/video/evergreen/MSG+SG+/SG+29+Apr+25/3365790_MSG+SG+DECOLONIZATION+TIMOR+LESTE+29+APR+25.mp4

    I am pleased to send my warm greetings to the 2025 Pacific Regional Seminar of the Special Committee on Decolonization.

    My thanks to the Government and people of Timor-Leste for hosting this meeting.

    Your country’s journey to independence is a beacon of hope for all.

    Through the years, the United Nations has been proud to accompany many Territories on their journey to decolonization – and we pledge to continue that vital work.

    Your focus this year is on “Pathways to a Sustainable Future” – recognizing that circumstances and needs vary from Territory to Territory – and that you also face common challenges. 

    Non-Self-Governing Territories are on the frontlines of the climate crisis – facing rising seas and extreme weather.  The world must step up to ensure you have the climate finance and adaptation support you need.

    Economic vulnerability also remains a significant challenge – including reliance on a single sector such as tourism or a heavy dependence on imports. We must keep supporting efforts for economic diversification. 

    Digital connectivity, education, and access to innovation must also be expanded to empower communities and unlock opportunities – with a special focus on women, young people and Indigenous peoples.

    On all these fronts and more, it is crucial to continue to leave no person or Territory behind. 

    Let’s commit to accelerate decolonization and end colonialism in all its forms.

    ***
     

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-Evening Report: Air New Zealand to resume Auckland-Nouméa flights from November

    By Patrick Decloitre, RNZ Pacific correspondent French Pacific desk

    Air New Zealand has announced it plans to resume its Auckland-Nouméa flights from November, almost one and a half years after deadly civil unrest broke out in the French Pacific territory.

    “Air New Zealand is resuming its Auckland-Nouméa service starting 1 November 2025. Initially, flights will operate once a week on a Saturday. This follows the New Zealand Government’s decision to update its safe travel advisory level for New Caledonia”, the company stated in its latest update yesterday.

    “The resumption of services reflects our commitment to reconnecting New Zealand and New Caledonia, ensuring that travel is safe and reliable for our customers. We will continue to monitor this route closely.

    “Passengers are encouraged to check the latest travel advisories and Air New Zealand’s official channels for updates on flight schedules”, said Air New Zealand general manager short haul Lucy Hall.

    In its updated advisory regarding New Caledonia, the New Zealand government still recommends “Exercise increased caution” (Level 2 of 4).

    It said this was “due to the ongoing risk of civil unrest”.

    In some specific areas (the Loyalty Islands, the Isle of Pines (Iles de Pins), and inland of the coastal strip between Mont Dore and Koné), it is still recommended to “avoid non-essential travel (Level 3 of 4).”

    Warning over ‘civil unrest’
    The advisory also recalls that “there was a prolonged period of civil unrest in New Caledonia in 2024. Political tensions and civil unrest may increase at short notice”.

    “Avoid all demonstrations, protests, and rallies as they have the potential to turn violent with little warning”.

    Air New Zealand ceased flights between Auckland and the French territory’s capital, Nouméa on 15 June 2024, at the height of violent civil unrest.

    Since then, it has maintained its no-show for the French Pacific territory, one of its closest neighbours.

    Air New Zealand’s general manager international Jeremy O’Brien said at the time this was due to “pockets of unrest” remaining in New Caledonia and “safety is priority”.

    New Caledonia’s international carrier Air Calédonie International (Aircalin) is also operating two weekly flights to Auckland from the Nouméa-La Tontouta international airport.

    The riots that broke out on 13 May 2024 resulted in 14 deaths and more than 2.2 billion euros (NZ$4.1 billion) in damages, bringing New Caledonia’s economy to its knees, with thousands of businesses and jobs destroyed.

    Tourism from its main regional source markets, namely Australia and New Zealand, also came to a standstill.

    Specifically regarding New Zealand, local statistics show that between the first quarters of 2024 and 2025, visitor numbers collapsed by 90 percent (from 1731 to 186).

    New Caledonia’s tourism stakeholders have welcomed the resumption of the service to and from New Zealand, saying this will allow the industry to relaunch targeted promotional campaigns in the New Zealand market.

    This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI China: UNESCO intangible cultural heritage: Gesar epic tradition

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

    Editor’s note: The Gesar epic tradition was inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2009. This recognition honors the Gesar epic as one of the world’s oldest and most important oral traditions.

    The epic, which is performed through storytelling, song and recitation, is an integral part of the cultural heritage of the Tibetan, Mongolian, Tu, Yugu and other ethnic groups in China. It is a narrative that tells the heroic tale of King Gesar, a divine warrior and ruler who defends his people, fights against evil forces, and brings justice and prosperity to his kingdom.

    The epic is significant not only for its literary and artistic merit but also for its social function as a way to preserve cultural values, history and identity. Its performance often involves both professional and amateur performers, who engage in the oral tradition of storytelling, sometimes accompanied by music and dance, providing a dynamic experience for audiences. The epic’s deep roots in various cultures make it a key symbol of shared heritage across the region.

    The Gesar epic is believed to have originated in ancient Tibetan oral traditions, with some estimates suggesting its origins as far back as the 10th century. The story of King Gesar was initially passed down orally by bards and storytellers, evolving over time as it spread across different regions and cultures. Over the centuries, the epic has undergone numerous adaptations, with various versions in different languages, including Tibetan, Mongolian and Chinese.

    The earliest written records of the Gesar epic began to appear in the 11th century, with manuscripts preserved in Tibetan monasteries. The oral tradition, however, remained the dominant mode of transmission for much of its history. In these performances, the narrative is typically sung or chanted by a “Gesar bard” or “epic singer,” who often improvises parts of the story, tailoring it to the particular audience or occasion. The epic was passed down through generations, not only as a form of entertainment but also as a source of moral instruction and cultural pride.

    King Gesar, as portrayed in the epic, is depicted as a supernatural hero with divine powers. He battles against malevolent forces and brings peace and justice to his people. The story is filled with symbolism and allegory, reflecting themes of good versus evil, the struggle for justice, and the importance of wisdom and courage. The epic’s cultural significance grew as it spread to different ethnic communities, each of which contributed its own variations and perspectives on the narrative.

    Today, the Gesar epic remains an important cultural treasure, though it faces challenges in the modern world. The rise of digital media, urbanization and the decline of oral traditions have all affected the transmission of the epic. However, the epic is still performed in many regions, particularly in Tibetan and Mongolian communities, and there have been efforts to revitalize and preserve the tradition.

    Many local communities continue to celebrate the Gesar epic during festivals, religious ceremonies and other social gatherings. Professional epic singers, some of whom are well-known figures, continue to perform the epic at public events and festivals, drawing large audiences. 

    Additionally, there are ongoing efforts to document the various versions of the epic, ensuring that its linguistic and cultural diversity is preserved. Some academic institutions and cultural organizations have worked to promote the study and performance of the epic, providing training for new generations of epic performers. Initiatives to include the epic in educational curricula and to integrate it into cultural tourism have also helped raise awareness and foster greater appreciation for this heritage.

    UNESCO’s recognition of the Gesar epic tradition acknowledges its status as a masterpiece of oral literature. The epic, according to UNESCO, is a vital part of the region’s cultural identity, fostering social cohesion, moral values and a sense of belonging among the communities that perform it.

    UNESCO has praised the epic for its multifaceted role in preserving history, culture and language, saying the epic is not only an art form but also an essential means of transmitting traditional knowledge and wisdom across generations.

    In its recognition, UNESCO also emphasizes the need for ongoing efforts to preserve the tradition in the face of modernization. The inclusion of the Gesar epic on the Representative List is intended to ensure its preservation through documentation, promotion and the encouragement of new performances. It is hoped that such efforts will help ensure the continuity of this important cultural heritage and its transmission to future generations.

    Discover more treasures from China on UNESCO’s ICH list:

    • 2024: Spring Festival

    • 2022: Traditional tea processing

    • 2020: Wangchuan ceremonytaijiquan

    • 2018: Lum medicinal bathing of Sowa Rigpa

    • 2016: Twenty-four solar terms

    • 2013: Abacus-based Zhusuan

    • 2012: Training plan for Fujian puppetry performers

    • 2011: Shadow puppetryYimakan storytelling

    • 2010: Peking operaacupuncture and moxibustionwooden movable-type printingwatertight-bulkhead technology of Chinese junksMeshrep

    • 2009: Yueju operaXi’an wind and percussion ensembletraditional handicrafts of making Xuan papertraditional firing techniques of Longquan celadonTibetan operasericulture and silk craftsmanshipRegong artsNanyinKhoomeiMazu belief and customsDragon Boat Festival, ManasCraftsmanship of Nanjing Yunjin brocadeXinjiang Uygur Muqam artHua’er, China engraved block printing technique, Chinese traditional architectural craftsmanship for timber-framed structures, Chinese paper-cut, Chinese calligraphy, Chinese seal engraving, Grand song of Dong ethnic group, Traditional Li textile techniques, Traditional design and practices for building Chinese wooden arch bridges, Farmers’ dance of China’s Korean ethnic group

    • 2008: Kunqu opera, Guqin, Urtiin Duu

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Guide to functional currency rules

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    How to use the functional currency rules guide

    The electronic version of this document is the only authorised version. Printed copies may be out of date.

    Read this guide to find out more about the functional currency rules, including:

    • eligibility requirements
    • the implications for tax accounting and tax reporting.

    You can use this guide if you are:

    • an Australian resident or a non-resident with a permanent establishment in Australia and both of the following apply
      • you keep your accounts solely or predominantly in a particular foreign currency
      • you wish to work out your taxable income (or tax loss) using that foreign currency – that is, using your ‘applicable functional currency’
    • a non-resident disposing of indirect interests in real property in Australia and the sole or predominant currency in which you keep your accounts at the time of disposal is a foreign currency. The application of functional currency rules is mandatory in this situation.

    This guide does not cover income from overseas permanent establishments of resident taxpayers.

    Functional currency translation rules

    The functional currency translation rules are an exception to the core foreign currency translation rules.

    Under the core foreign currency translation rules, amounts in a foreign currency must be translated into Australian dollars (A$). There are also rules about when and at what exchange rate a translation is to take place for a given type of transaction.

    Under the functional currency rules, you can use a currency other than A$ as the unit of account to work out your taxable income or tax loss. The core foreign currency translation rules continue to apply to amounts and transactions not covered by the functional currency rules.

    If you are an eligible taxpayer who keeps your accounts solely or predominantly in a particular foreign currency, you can choose to use that foreign currency as the unit of account to work out your taxable income or tax loss.

    If you have made such a choice (that is, an effective functional currency choice), you do not translate transactions you undertake in either a foreign currency or in your applicable functional currency into A$. Rather, you translate only your net amount of taxable income or tax loss calculated in your applicable functional currency into A$.

    The core foreign currency translation rules are contained in section 960-50 of Subdivision 960-C of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 (ITAA 1997).

    The functional currency translation rules are contained in section 960-80 of Subdivision 960-D of the ITAA 1997.

    How the functional currency rules work

    Once you choose to use a non-Australian dollar applicable functional currency, you must use that currency as the unit of account in your day-to-day tax accounting. After working out your taxable income or tax loss in the applicable functional currency, you must translate that amount into A$ to report on your tax return.

    You must also carry out your instalment income calculations in your applicable functional currency and translate that amount into A$ for reporting purposes.

    Eligibility to account in a functional currency

    Only certain taxpayers can choose to work out their taxable income or tax loss using a non-Australian dollar applicable functional currency. This guide is relevant only if you are either of the following:

    • a resident who must prepare financial reports under section 292 of the Corporations Act 2001
    • a non-resident carrying on business through a permanent establishment in Australia.

    Your applicable functional currency is the sole or predominant currency in which you keep your ‘accounts’ at the time you choose to use functional currency.

    ‘Accounts’ means ledgers, journals, statements of financial performance, profit and loss accounts, balance sheets and statements of financial position and includes statements, reports and notes attached to, or intended to be read, with such items.

    Find out more in subsection 960-70(4) of the ITAA 1997.

    The following taxpayers using a non-A$ applicable functional currency are not covered in this guide:

    • Australian residents carrying on business through overseas permanent establishments, using a non-A$ applicable functional currency to work out their taxable income or loss
    • attributable taxpayers in respect of controlled foreign companies (CFC) and transferor trusts, using a non-A$ applicable functional currency to work out the ‘attributable income’ of the CFC or transferor trust.

    When to make a functional currency choice

    The functional currency rules started to apply on 1 July 2003.

    Ordinarily, if you choose to use a foreign currency as your applicable functional currency to work out your taxable income or tax loss, your choice will take effect after the end of the tax year during which you made it.

    You must make your functional currency choice in writing.

    In some circumstances, you can make your functional currency choice after the start of the tax year in which you intend it to take effect. This is referred to as a ‘backdated start up choice’. You must make a ‘backdated start up choice within 90 days of either of the following:

    • the start of the tax year, if your entity existed at that time
    • the day your entity came into existence, if it did not exist at the start of the tax year.

    See details on:

    Withdrawing an existing functional currency choice and substituting a new choice

    You can withdraw your existing functional currency choice if the functional currency you are using ceases to be the sole or predominant currency in which you keep your ‘accounts’. Your functional currency choice withdrawal will take effect from the end of the tax year in which you withdraw it.

    Your withdrawal:

    • cannot be backdated
    • must be made in writing
    • should be available as part of the business’s tax records.

    After your previous functional currency choice is withdrawn, you can make a choice to use the new sole or predominant currency in which you keep your accounts to work out your taxable income or tax loss. You must make this choice in writing. If you don’t make a new functional currency choice, the core foreign currency translation rules will apply, which means that all amounts must be translated into A$.

    See details on:

    Documenting your choice to use a non-Australian dollar applicable functional currency

    When making your written choice to use a non-Australian dollar currency as your applicable functional currency, include all the following:

    • the name and tax file number of the entity making the choice
    • the use to which the functional currency is being put – for example, to work out taxable income or tax loss
    • the date the choice takes effect
    • the unit of account that the entity intends to use as its functional currency
    • the signature of the entity’s public officer and the date the written functional currency choice was signed.

    You do not need to send your written functional currency choice to us. However, it should be available as part of your business’ tax records.

    Non-functional currency amounts you receive or pay

    All amounts included in working out your taxable income or tax loss must be in the applicable functional currency. This means you must translate all amounts you receive or pay in another currency, including A$ amounts, into the applicable functional currency.

    The functional currency translation rules, including applicable exchange rates, follow the principles in the core foreign currency translation rules for translating foreign currency amounts to A$. This is covered in subsection 960-50(6) of Subdivision 960-C and also subsection 960-80(6) of Subdivision 960-D of the ITAA 1997.

    However, the A$ is treated as a foreign currency while your applicable functional currency is not a foreign currency for the purposes of working out your taxable income or tax loss in the applicable functional currency. This is covered in subsection 960-80(1) of the ITAA 1997.

    A foreign exchange (forex) realisation gain or loss may arise for certain amounts if there is a difference in prevailing exchange rates at the relevant times. For example, the exchange rate applicable at the time you incur an amount may be different from the exchange rate applicable when you pay it. In this situation, changes in the value of the A$ against the applicable functional currency can bring about a forex gain or loss – an example follows.

    Example 1: trigger of foreign currency loss

    Stellar Rex Incorporated (Stellar Rex), a USA company with a branch (permanent establishment) in Australia, chooses to account for their Australian branch’s taxable income in a functional currency. For Stellar Rex’s purposes, US dollars (US$) is the applicable functional currency and A$ is a foreign currency.

    Stellar Rex contracts to purchase a depreciating asset from an Australian company in A$ as follows:

    Year 1

    Stellar Rex contracts to purchase the asset for A$10,000. Stellar Rex holds the asset from the date of contract.

    At the contract time, A$1.00 = US$0.50.

    Therefore, the cost of the asset in the applicable functional currency is US$5,000.

    Year 2

    Thirteen months after beginning to hold the asset, Stellar Rex pays A$10,000 for the asset.

    At this time A$1.00 = US$0.55, so the A$10,000 Stellar Rex pays is equivalent to US$5,500.

    A forex realisation loss of US$500 is made under Forex realisation event (FRE) 4 when Stellar Rex pays A$10,000 for the asset in year 2. As the payment was made more than 12 months after first holding the asset, the loss is not a short-term forex realisation loss – refer to section 775-75 of the ITAA 1997.

    Therefore, Stellar Rex will take this loss into account as an allowable deduction when calculating the taxable income or tax loss of its Australian branch for year 2. The taxable income of the Australian branch is calculated in US$ and translated into A$ at the end of the tax year for the purpose of working out the amount of A$ income tax it is liable to pay.

    End of example

    Find out more about foreign currency translation (conversion) rules.

    Pre-choice amounts

    Special translation rules apply to amounts that are attributable to transactions or events that happened before your current functional currency choice took effect (‘pre-choice’ amounts). Pre-choice amounts that are relevant for working out your taxable income or tax loss for a year after your functional currency choice takes effect must be translated into your applicable functional currency in accordance with these special rules. This includes pre-choice amounts that are denominated in the same non-A$ currency as your applicable functional currency.

    See details on:

    If you haven’t previously made a functional currency choice, you should translate a relevant pre-choice amount as follows:

    • firstly, into A$ at the exchange rate applicable at the time of the transaction or event
    • secondly, into the applicable functional currency at the exchange rate at the time your functional currency choice took effect.

    If you have previously made a choice to use a non-A$ currency as your applicable functional currency, you should translate a relevant pre-choice amount:

    • firstly, into the previous applicable functional currency at the exchange rate applicable at the time of the transaction or event
    • secondly, into the new applicable functional currency at the exchange rate at the time your new functional currency choice took effect.

    Example 2: sale of assets acquired before making a functional currency choice

    Fion Incorporated (FION), a non-resident corporation, operates through a permanent establishment in Australia. FION conducts most of its business in Yen (¥).

    In the year ended 30 June (year 1) FION chooses to use ¥ as its applicable functional currency. The choice applies for the year commencing 1 July (year 2).

    In the year ended 30 June (year 3) FION sells a tourist resort for ¥600 million, which it had purchased before year 1 for ¥500 million.

    As FION’s applicable functional currency is ¥, the capital gain or capital loss on the disposal of the tourist resort will be calculated in ¥. However, FION had not made a choice to use ¥ as its applicable functional currency at the time it purchased the tourist resort – that is, it was still using A$ for tax purposes. Therefore, the ¥ cost of the resort is translated to A$ at the exchange rate prevailing at the time of the purchase. This A$ amount is then translated to ¥ at the exchange rate prevailing at the time FION’s choice to use ¥ as its applicable functional currency took effect.

    For the purposes of this example, the exchange rates were:

    • A$1.00 = ¥68.50 at the time FION purchased the resort
    • A$1.00 = ¥62.00 at the time FION’s functional currency choice took effect.

    This means the cost base for the purpose of calculating the capital gain or loss on the disposal of the tourist resort is:

    • (¥500,000,000 ÷ 68.50) × 62.00
    • = A$7,299,270 × 62.00
    • = ¥452,554,745.

    The capital gain calculated in FION’s applicable functional currency is:

    • sale proceeds = ¥600,000,000
    • less ¥452,554,745
    • capital gain = ¥147,445,255.

    End of example

    Tax reporting and functional currency

    The functional currency rules allow you to work out your taxable income or tax loss in your applicable functional currency. However, all tax reporting must still be expressed in A$. When reporting on your tax return or activity statement, work out the reported amounts in your applicable functional currency and then translate these amounts into A$.

    For tax reporting purposes, when a translation is needed for label amounts (other than the taxable income amount), use the same translation rate as the taxable income translation rate. If you don’t have a taxable income amount in a given income year (that is, you have a tax loss), you should use the same rate you would have used to translate a taxable income amount into A$.

    How to treat different amounts

    Amount type

    Treatment

    Amounts used in working out taxable income or tax loss in the applicable functional currency (FC).

    Note sections 6AB and 6AC of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1936 (ITAA 1936) with regard to foreign income and foreign tax and the ‘grossing-up’ of foreign income to include foreign tax paid.

    Include the amount in the taxable income calculation in the FC before translating taxable income from the FC into A$.

    Amounts used to work out taxable income or a tax loss that are in a foreign currency. For example:

    • A$ amounts, including the ‘gross-up’ amount for a franked dividend
    • amounts of foreign income, including the ‘gross-up’ amount for foreign tax paid in respect of that income.

    Section 6AC of the ITAA 1936 requires the amount of foreign income included in your assessable income to be ‘grossed-up’ to include any foreign tax you paid in relation to the foreign income. If you receive a franked dividend, section 207-20 of the ITAA 1997 requires you to ‘gross-up’ your assessable income by the amount of the franking credit – and also entitles you to a tax offset equal to the amount of the franking credit.

    Translate into the FC using the applicable exchange rate for that amount.

    As ‘gross-up’ amounts contribute to the calculation of your taxable income or tax loss, you must translate them into the FC. Include the FC value in the taxable income calculation before translating taxable income from FC into A$ – see Example 3 and Example 4.

    Carry-forward losses

    Carry-forward losses are allowable deductions that reduce taxable income.

    Identify the carry forward loss amount in the FC from the previous income year.

    Include these amounts in the taxable income calculation in the FC before translating taxable income from FC into A$.

    When reporting the value of a tax loss, translate it from FC into A$.

    Tax exempt amounts that reduce carry-forward losses

    Tax exempt amounts that reduce carry-forward losses are translated into the FC generally upon being derived. They are then used to absorb the loss to the extent of their value.

    When reporting the value of a tax exempt amount, translate it into A$.

    Foreign income tax offsets (FITO)

    Subsection 770-10(1) of the ITAA 1997 provides that you are entitled to a foreign income tax offset for foreign income tax you paid in respect of an amount of foreign income that is included in your assessable income in a year of income. (FITO in relation to the ‘attributable income’ of a CFC is not dealt with in this guide.)

    The value of foreign income tax offset amounts is not used in working out taxable income, except for when calculating the ‘attributable income’ of a controlled foreign company (CFC) or transferor trust.

    The core foreign currency translation rules apply, and the value of foreign tax paid used to calculate foreign income tax offsets is translated into A$ when the foreign tax is paid – see Example 3.

    Franking credits

    A credit that arises in the franking account of an entity (a franking credit) is a tax offset.

    The amount of the tax offset you are entitled to as a result of receiving a franked dividend is not translated into your FC. Your tax offset amount will equal the A$ amount of the franking credit attached to the dividend you received before it was translated into functional currency.

    Add the A$ value of franking credits to your franking account without translation into FC – see Example 4.

    You must keep your franking account in A$.

    Tax offsets and rebates

    Tax offsets and rebates are not used to work out taxable income or a tax loss.

    The core foreign currency translation rules apply.

    If the amount is already in A$, then no translation takes place.

    If the amount is in a non-A$ currency, translate the amount into A$.

    Do not translate into FC first.

    Values expressed in law

    Paragraph 960-80(2)(i) of the ITAA 1997 covers this.

    Translate these amounts to FC at the applicable rate – see Example 5.

    Example 4: franking credits

    US$1.00 = A$2.00

    XYZ Corporation (XYZ) is an Australian resident company, which chooses to use US$ as its applicable functional currency.

    XYZ derives a fully franked dividend as follows:

    • A$70 cash.
    • A$30 gross-up amount (franking credit value).

    To find out more, refer to subsection 207-20(1) of the ITAA 1997.

    Assessable income calculation

    XYZ translates A$100 ($70 + $30) into US$ as follows:

    • A$100 × 0.5 = US$50.

    At the end of the tax year, US$50 (and other taxable income values) are translated into A$ at regulation rate.

    Franking account balance

    Add A$30 to franking account balance. No translation takes place.

    End of example

    Mandatory application of functional currency for indirect Australian real property interests

    If:

    • you are a foreign resident
    • a CGT event happens in relation to a CGT asset that is an indirect Australian real property interest for you, and
    • at the time of the CGT event, the sole or predominant currency in which you keep your accounts is a currency other than Australian currency

    you must use the applicable functional currency to work out the amount of any capital gain or capital loss. Subsection 960-61(2) of the ITAA 1997 covers this.

    This requirement applies to CGT events that happen on or after 12 December 2006.

    Capital gains and losses

    There are 2 steps to work out a capital gain or capital loss.

    Step 1 translate an amount that is not in the applicable functional currency into the applicable functional currency.

    Step 2 translate the amount of any capital gain or capital loss into Australian currency.

    See more details at table item 6 of subsection 960-80(1) of the ITAA 1997.

    Exchange rates to apply

    Different exchange rates apply to the translation of amounts that are elements in the calculation of capital gain or loss.

    See more details at subsection 960-80(4) of the ITAA 1997.

    The exchange rate to be used when translating amounts will be either the:

    • rate at the time the costs are incurred
    • rate at the time of the CGT event.

    Exchange rate applicable at the time the costs are incurred

    Amounts relating to the payments made and costs incurred that form part of the cost base of a CGT asset, are translated into your functional currency at the exchange rate applicable at the time the costs are incurred.

    See details in:

    • table item 5 of subsection 960-50(6) of the ITAA 1997
    • TR 2007/5 Income tax: functional currency – when is an amount not in the ‘applicable functional currency’? paragraphs 110 and 153.

    Exchange rate applicable at the time of the CGT event

    Amounts which are relevant for working out the capital gain or capital loss (capital proceeds or market value of other property) on the happening of a CGT event, are translated into the applicable functional currency at the exchange rate applicable at the time of the CGT event.

    See details in:

    Amount of capital gain or capital loss calculated in the applicable functional currency

    This amount is translated into the Australian currency at the exchange rate applicable at the time of CGT event.

    See details in:

    • table item 5 in subsection 960-50(6) of the ITAA 1997
    • TR 2007/5 Income tax: functional currency – when is an amount not in the ‘applicable functional currency’?

    Reporting during the year

    Business activity statements

    When completing a business activity statement (BAS):

    1. calculate your instalment income in the applicable functional currency
    2. translate your instalment income into Australian dollars at the appropriate rate
    3. complete label T1 of the BAS accordingly.

    Company tax return

    The functional currency rules allow some taxpayers to choose to work out their taxable income or tax loss by using a non-A$ currency as their applicable functional currency (FC).

    All amounts disclosed on the company tax return must be disclosed in A$.

    When a label amount is accounted for in a non-A$ FC, that sum should be translated into A$ using the same functional currency translation rate (shown at label 8N Functional currency translation rate of the company tax return) used to translate the taxable income or tax loss figure.

    The following amounts are always accounted for in A$, and not in the FC:

    • Label 7 J Franking credits
    • Label 7 C Australian franking credits from a New Zealand Company.

    The following amounts do not need to be translated into A$ before completion of the return:

    • Label 7 R Tax losses deducted
    • Label 7 S Tax losses transferred in.

    Tax losses are allowable deductions from taxable income. If you carry forward losses, you should account for and claim them in your FC. Report any losses used during the income year at label 7R by translating the value of the loss used into A$ at the FC translation rate.

    As mentioned above, label 8N is where you show the exchange rate used to translate the FC taxable income figure (and many other figures on the company tax return) into A$.

    At label 8N, show the translation rate the company used to translate the taxable income figure from the FC into A$. The translation rate is the amount the FC amount is divided by to get an equivalent amount of A$. That is, the number of non-A$ currency units that equal one A$ rounded to 4 significant figures – see Examples for labels 8N and 8O.

    Label 😯 – functional currency chosen

    Label 😯 is where you show your chosen FC using the 3-letter code from the international standard ISO 4217 – ‘Currency codes’. See the list of Currency codes for label 😯.

    Labels 8N and 😯 must be completed by:

    • Australian resident taxpayers who use FC to work out their taxable income or tax loss
    • foreign residents carrying on an activity or business at, or through, an Australian permanent establishment, who use FC to work out their taxable income or tax loss.

    You should not complete labels 8N and 😯 if you are an Australian resident taxpayer using FC only to work out the attributable income of a controlled foreign company (CFC) or transferor trust.

    The following are examples of correctly completed labels 8N and 8O. The exchange rates used are from 26 September 2003.

    Examples for labels 8N and 😯

    Applicable FC

    Label N

    Label O

    US Dollar

    .6695

    USD

    Yen

    77.18

    JPY

    New Zealand Dollar

    1.1385

    NZD

    Won

    785.8

    KRW

    Rupiah

    5679

    IDR

    As mentioned previously, if you choose to use FC, you should account for the value of any carry-forward losses using that FC.

    The value of those tax losses and net capital losses carried forward to later income years should be reported in A$ at ‘Losses information’ – labels 13U and 13V – on the company tax return.

    Calculation statement

    The calculation statement on the company tax return shows you how to work out the amount of tax payable or refundable. It starts with the ‘Taxable income’ figure at label A. This figure should have been worked out earlier, using the applicable FC and then translated into A$.

    Other figures in the calculation statement are either of the following:

    • A$ amounts, such as pay as you go (PAYG) instalments raised
    • amounts translated into A$ previously, such as any foreign income tax offset.

    Currency codes for label 😯

    These currency codes are from international standard ISO 4217 – Currency codes.

    A–F, G–K, L–P, Q–U, V–Z

    A

    • Afghan Afghani – AFN
    • Albanian Lek – ALL
    • Algerian Dinar – DZD
    • Angolan Kwanza – AOA
    • Argentine Peso – ARS
    • Armenian Dram – AMD
    • Aruban Guilder – AWG
    • Azerbaijani Manat – AZN

    B

    • Bahamian Dollar – BSD
    • Bahraini Dinar – BHD
    • Bangladeshi Taka – BDT
    • Barbados Dollar – BBD
    • Belarusian Ruble – BYN
    • Belize Dollar – BZD
    • Bermudian Dollar – BMD
    • Bhutanese Ngultrum – BTN
    • Bolivian Boliviano – BOB
    • Bosnia & Herzegovina Convertible Marks – BAM
    • Botswanan Pula – BWP
    • Brazilian Real – BRL
    • British Pound – GBP
    • Brunei Dollar – BND
    • Bulgarian Lev – BGN
    • Burundi Franc – BIF

    C

    • Cambodian Riel – KHR
    • Canadian Dollar – CAD
    • Cabo Verde Escudo – CVE
    • Cayman Islands Dollar – KYD
    • CFA Franc BCEAO – XOF
    • CFA Franc BEAC – XAF
    • CFP Franc – XPF
    • Chilean Peso – CLP
    • Chinese Yuan Renminbi – CNY
    • Colombian Peso – COP
    • Comorian Franc – KMF
    • Congolese Franc – CDF
    • Costa Rican Colon – CRC
    • Cuban Peso – CUP
    • Czech Koruna – CZK

    D

    • Danish Krone – DKK
    • Djibouti Franc – DJF
    • Dominican Peso – DOP

    E

    • East Caribbean Dollar – XCD
    • Egyptian Pound – EGP
    • El Salvador Colon – SVC
    • Eritrean Nakfa – ERN
    • Ethiopian Birr – ETB
    • Euro – EUR

    F

    • Falkland Islands Pound – FKP
    • Fijian Dollar – FJD

    G

    • Gambian Dalasi – GMD
    • Georgian Lari – GEL
    • Ghanaian Cedi – GHS
    • Gibraltar Pound – GIP
    • Guatemalan Quetzal – GTQ
    • Guernsey Pound Sterling – GBP
    • Guinean Franc – GNF
    • Guyanese Dollar – GYD

    H

    • Haitian Gourde – HTG
    • Honduran Lempira – HNL
    • Hong Kong Dollar – HKD
    • Hungarian Forint – HUF

    I

    • Icelandic Krona – ISK
    • Indian Rupee – INR
    • Indonesian Rupiah – IDR
    • Iranian Rial – IRR
    • Iraqi Dinar – IQD
    • Isle of Man Pound Sterling – GBP
    • Israeli New Sheqel – ILS

    J

    • Jamaican Dollar – JMD
    • Japanese Yen – JPY
    • Jersey Pound Sterling – GBP
    • Jordanian Dinar – JOD

    K

    • Kazakhstani Tenge – KZT
    • Kenyan Shilling – KES
    • Kuwaiti Dinar – KWD
    • Kyrgystani Som – KGS

    L

    • Laotian Kip – LAK
    • Latvia Euro – EUR
    • Lebanese Pound – LBP
    • Lesotho Loti – LSL
    • Liberian Dollar – LRD
    • Libyan Dinar – LYD
    • Lithuania Euro – EUR

    M

    • Macanese Pataca – MOP
    • Macedonia Denar – MKD
    • Malagasy Ariary – MGA
    • Malawian Kwacha – MWK
    • Malaysian Ringgit – MYR
    • Maldivian Rufiyaa – MVR
    • Mauritanian Ouguiya – MRU
    • Mauritius Rupee – MUR
    • Mexican Peso – MXN
    • Moldovan Leu – MDL
    • Mongolian Tugrik – MNT
    • Moroccan Dirham – MAD
    • Mozambique Metical – MZN
    • Myanmar Kyat – MMK

    N

    • Namibia Dollar – NAD
    • Nepalese Rupee – NPR
    • Netherlands Antillean Guilder – ANG
    • New Zealand Dollar – NZD
    • Nicaraguan Cordoba Oro – NIO
    • Nigerian Naira – NGN
    • North Korean Won – KPW
    • Norwegian Krone – NOK

    O

    • Omani Rial – OMR
    • Other – OTH

    P

    • Pakistani Rupee – PKR
    • Panamanian Balboa – PAB
    • Papuan Kina – PGK
    • Paraguayan Guarani – PYG
    • Peruvian Nuevo Sol – PEN
    • Philippine Peso – PHP
    • Polish Zloty – PLN
    • Pound Sterling – GBP

    Q

    • Qatari Rial – QAR

    R

    • Romanian New Leu – RON
    • Russian Ruble – RUB
    • Rwandan Franc – RWF

    S

    • Saint Helena Pound – SHP
    • Samoan Tala – WST
    • Sao Tome and Principe Dobra – STN
    • Saudi Riyal – SAR
    • Serbian Dinar – RSD
    • Seychelles Rupee – SCR
    • Sierra Leonean Leone – SLE
    • Singapore Dollar – SGD
    • Solomon Islands Dollar – SBD
    • Somali Shilling – SOS
    • South African Rand – ZAR
    • South Korean Won – KRW
    • South Sudanese Pound – SSP
    • Sri Lankan Rupee – LKR
    • Sudanese Pound – SDG
    • Surinam Dollar – SRD
    • Eswatini Lilangeni – SZL
    • Swedish Krona – SEK
    • Swiss Franc – CHF
    • Syrian Pound – SYP

    T

    • Taiwanese New Dollar – TWD
    • Tajikistani Somoni – TJS
    • Tanzanian Shilling – TZS
    • Thai Baht – THB
    • Tongan Pa’anga – TOP
    • Trinidad and Tobago Dollar – TTD
    • Tunisian Dinar – TND
    • Turkish Lira – TRY
    • Turkmenistan New Manat – TMT
    • Tuvalu Australian Dollar – AUD

    U

    • UAE Dirham – AED
    • Ugandan Shilling – UGX
    • Ukrainian Hryvnia – UAH
    • Uruguayan Peso – UYU
    • US Dollar – USD
    • Uzbekistan Sum – UZS

    V

    • Vanuatuan Vatu – VUV
    • Venezuelan Bolivar Soberano – VES
    • Vietnamese Dong – VND

    Y

    • Yemeni Rial – YER

    Z

    • Zambian Kwacha – ZMW
    • Zimbabwe Gold – ZWG

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy, Blumenthal, Colleagues Introduce Bill To Direct Restoration And Protection Efforts Of The 5-state Connecticut River Watershed Region

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    May 22, 2025

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) joined six of their Senate colleagues in reintroducing the Connecticut River Watershed Partnership Act (CRWPA), which would formalize a partnership between federal, state, local and private entities to promote conservation, restoration, education and recreation efforts in the Watershed and establish a voluntary grant program to facilitate these activities. This collaborative effort will benefit fish and wildlife habitats, protect drinking water sources, enhance flood resilience and help promote access to the Watershed’s public spaces, particularly for excluded and marginalized communities. U.S. Representative Jim McGovern (Mass.-02) leads a companion bill in the House of Representatives.

    “The Connecticut River is one of our state’s greatest natural resources and a major economic driver for the communities it runs through. It’s also a really important part of a healthy Long Island Sound ecosystem,” said Murphy. “This legislation would help make sure organizations working on the ground have the support they need from federal, state, and local government to keep the watershed healthy and thriving for years to come.”

    “The Connecticut River is a cherished treasure in our state. This legislation bolsters conservation efforts, protects fish and wildlife, supplies clean drinking water, and enhances recreation so that many generations of Connecticut residents can enjoy this natural resource. I’m proud to join my New England colleagues in supporting this initiative,” said Blumenthal.

    The Connecticut River, New England’s longest river, drains a 7.2-million-acre watershed across five New England states: Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Vermont. The Watershed is home to 396 communities and provides multiple environmental and economic benefits to diverse stakeholders and industries, including fisheries, farming, hunting, recreation, boating and tourism. The Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge encompasses the entire Watershed and is the only refuge of its kind in the National Wildlife Refuge System.

    Specifically, the CRWPA would:

    1. Require the Secretary of Interior to establish a non-regulatory Watershed Partnership Program intended to identify, prioritize and implement restoration and protection activities within the Watershed in consultation with federal, state, local and non-profit stakeholders;
    2. Create a grant and technical assistance program for state and local governments; tribal organizations; nonprofit organizations; institutions of higher education; and other eligible entities for activities in the Watershed;
    3. Implement a 75% Federal cost share for the grant program, except where the Secretary determines a larger cost share is appropriate; and
    4. Ensure other activities conducted by the Secretary in the Watershed would supplement, not supplant activities carried out by the partnership program.

    The legislation is supported by a broad coalition of more than 50 public and private organizations throughout New England, including the Connecticut River Watershed Partnership. U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Peter Welch (D-Vt.) also cosponsored the legislation.

    Full text of the bill is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI China: China explores, advances harmonious human-nature coexistence

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

    Deep in a red pine forest, where towering ancient trees cast dappled shadows and the air was thick with the scent of resin, a resounding song, known as the “forest shanty,” drew a circle of curious visitors.

    This song was sung by 45-year-old Cui Jianhua, who stood beneath a centuries-old pine tree, pouring his heart into the melody at the Wuying Red Pine Forest Sea Scenic Area in the city of Yichun, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province.

    “Originally, these shanties were chanted by forestry workers while felling giant trees,” said Cui. “Today, we perform them as songs of welcome, a symbol of the thriving, harmonious life we now share with the forest.”

    Thursday marked the 2025 International Day for Biological Diversity, themed “Harmony with nature and sustainable development.”

    The idea of harmonious coexistence between humans and nature has long been embedded in the daily lives of Cui and many other forest dwellers in Yichun.

    Over the past decade, they have transitioned from logging-based livelihoods to engaging in eco-friendly industries, witnessing a transformation where both people and the forest thrive together.

    Nestled in the heart of the Lesser Khingan Mountains, Yichun was once a major timber production hub in China. With over 270 million cubic meters of wood harvested, it earned the nickname “Forest City.”

    But decades of industrial logging stripped its lush slopes bare and displaced much of its native wildlife — resulting in a mounting ecological crisis.

    In 2013, Yichun brought all commercial logging of natural forests to a halt. Since then, more than 100,000 forestry workers have laid down their axes and saws, embarking on a new journey toward harmonious coexistence with the forest.

    Cui began his career as a forest ranger. During his early years on the job, the grueling work of reforestation often left him questioning his purpose. But whenever he felt disheartened, his father, a forest police officer, would offer words of encouragement.

    “Felling trees was for building the nation. Protecting them is for securing its future,” according to Cui’s father.

    Those words inspired Cui and sparked his imagination about what the mountains might look like once they turned green again.

    Now, Cui’s vision has become reality. Thanks to Yichun’s unwavering commitment to ecological restoration — forest coverage has climbed to 83.8 percent, and forest stock increased by over 10 million cubic meters each year.

    Beyond reforestation, the city has established 23 nature reserves covering 670,000 hectares to revive biodiversity. Species long unseen, such as lynx and sables, have returned to roam the woods, while iconic creatures like the Amur tiger are also making frequent appearances.

    The forest has become a vast “natural oxygen bar,” offering fresh, invigorating air. In major scenic locations, the negative oxygen ion level soars to 3,000 per cubic centimeter — far exceeding those in urban areas.

    This transformation has turned Yichun into a magnet for tourists, heralding more opportunities for Cui and his community.

    Statistics from the city government show that in 2024, tourist arrivals and tourism revenue had increased by 53 percent and 76.2 percent year on year, respectively, while the number of overseas visitors during the winter season soared by 382 percent.

    Also benefiting from the city’s tourism boom is Liu Yangshun, who lives near the Xishui National Forest Park. Formerly a lumber truck driver, Liu started his homestay after retiring in 2016.

    “My homestay has 18 tables and operates from May to August, bringing in over 100,000 yuan (about 13,907 U.S. dollars) during the season,” he said.

    Liu also noted that more residents have turned to running homestays in recent years. Today, more than 40 such homestays are clustered around the forest park.

    Dong Wenqin, Party secretary of Yichun, said that the city has developed mountain hiking, study tour and other niche tours, drawing visitors from across the country.

    Yichun’s transformation serves as a vivid example of China’s broader commitment to both biodiversity conservation and harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature.

    From a growing number of gibbons swinging through rainforest in south China’s Hainan Province and the thousands of egrets nesting freely at Qingshan Lake in east China’s Jiangxi Province, to the rescued Asian elephants roaming in Xishuangbanna, southwest China’s Yunnan Province, it is evident that China is on a remarkable journey of ecological transformation.

    Official data from the National Forestry and Grassland Administration showed that populations of rare and endangered wild species have steadily increased in China as the country’s biodiversity conservation efforts continued to yield notable results.

    The total number of overwintering waterbirds recorded in China reached nearly 5.06 million last year — a record high since nationwide monitoring began.

    Huang Runqiu, minister of ecology and environment, said at the International Day for Biological Diversity Event 2025 held in Yichun that as the presidency of the 15th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (COP15), China is actively advancing the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and has established the 1.5-billion-yuan Kunming Biodiversity Fund, with nine pilot projects already underway.

    “Around the world, biodiversity is in decline,” said Beate Trankmann, resident representative of the United Nations Development Programme in China. “Within this context, the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, negotiated under China’s COP15 presidency, sets out a pathway to safeguard the planet and promote coexistence with nature.”

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Minnesota Man Sentenced for Airline Assault, Interference

    Source: US FBI

    ANCHORAGE, Alaska – A Minnesota man was sentenced today to five years’ probation for assaulting a flight attendant and interfering with a flight crew’s normal duties.

    According to court documents, on June 24, 2023, Christian Burch, 38, went into the bathroom while he was aboard a flight from Minneapolis to Anchorage. Flight attendants heard a scream coming from the bathroom and tried knocking on the door multiple times. The defendant slammed the door open and walked up the aisleway, appearing shaky and confused.

    After being questioned by another flight attendant, Burch became unresponsive. A registered nurse aboard the flight examined the defendant and suspected he was overdosing. The flight attendants and a male passenger assisted the nurse is administering a dosage of Narcan, but Burch began to violently struggle when the Narcan was inserted into his nose. The flight attendants and multiple passengers were involved in the struggle, and at one point, Burch grabbed one of the flight attendants near her throat. Burch was also bleeding from his nose and mouth during the altercation, causing multiple passengers and flight attendants to come in contact with his blood.

    The nurse was able to administer two doses of Narcan during the altercation and Burch was restrained in one of the cabin seats for the remainder of the flight. Due to Burch’s actions, the flight crew had to stop performing their normal duties to remedy the situation and update the pilots.

    Burch was arrested once the plane landed in Anchorage and served six days in federal custody before being released. Upon his return to Minnesota, he was arrested and held in state custody for 72 days for violating his state parole by leaving the state without permission. Burch pleaded guilty in December 2023 but was arrested in March 2024 for violating his pretrial release and has remained in custody since, serving 66 days total in federal custody.

    “Air travel is a necessity for many Alaskans and tourists, and all who use or work on this mode of transportation should feel safe while aboard an aircraft,” said U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker for the District of Alaska. “This case serves as a reminder that we will prosecute anyone who chooses to commit such actions while in our district.”

    “Criminal conduct aboard an aircraft, such as interference with a flight crew, jeopardizes the safety of all passengers and is a federal crime,” said Special Agent in Charge Rebecca Day of the FBI Anchorage Field Office. “The FBI is committed to investigating federal crimes occurring on commercial aircraft, and holding accountable those that endanger the safety of passengers and flight crews.”

    The FBI Anchorage Field Office, with assistance from the Anchorage Airport Police Department, investigated the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Schroeder prosecuted the case.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Global space economy market to surpass $511 billion in 2029, forecasts GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Global space economy market to surpass $511 billion in 2029, forecasts GlobalData

    Posted in Strategic Intelligence

    The global space economy market is forecast to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.0% from $421.0 billion in 2024 to $511.2 billion in 2029, driven by an increase in the deployment of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, productivity improvements in satellite equipment manufacturing, the competitive launch services landscape, and demand for services around data communications, navigation, and Earth observation. according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    GlobalData’s latest Strategic Intelligence report, “The Space Economy” reveals that space applications, which include satellite communications, navigation, and Earth observation, is the largest segment of the space economy and will grow at a CAGR of 2.9% to reach $334.8 billion by 2029.

    Falling manufacturing and launch costs, non-Western companies’ entrance into the space economy market, increased space militarization, and new uses for data from space are the other growth drivers of the space economy.

    William Rojas, Research Director, Strategic Intelligence at GlobalData, comments: “Different scenarios indicate different growth rates for the space economy market over the coming decade. Issues that may restrict growth include a continuation of the currently challenging global economic environment, Russia’s permanent exit from the space economy, and whether Chinese companies can fulfill the country’s space ambitions. The uncertain financial viability of young satellite and rocket companies and the market’s low return on investment in the short term, combined with the current global economic environment, could lead to a pause in investor confidence in the space economy beyond 2025.”

    Future market growth will also depend on the development of reusable rockets and more affordable and frequent ride-sharing services that will increase payload slots on launch missions. The space tourism and colonization subsectors are unlikely to significantly contribute to the overall space economy market until after 2030.

    Rojas adds: “Space is no longer the sole domain of governments and incumbent aerospace and defense companies. Technological advances in manufacturing, propulsion, and the launch of rockets have made it much easier and less expensive to venture into space. Those businesses that pursued emerging opportunities have gained a first-mover advantage. SpaceX was the first private company to launch a spacecraft into orbit and return it safely to Earth. Currently, it charges clients $69.5 million per launch of the Falcon 9, its partially reusable medium-lift launch vehicle.”

    The sector has become incredibly competitive, with various start-ups developing concepts for cost-effective rockets and satellites to rival the aerospace giants. The large satellite groups continue to consolidate to compete with Starlink and the future Amazon Kuiper mega-constellations. Eutelsat and OneWeb merged in 2022, Viasat acquired Inmarsat in 2023, and SES acquired Intelsat in 2024. This market consolidation will continue.

    Rojas continues: ”Satellite broadband communications has become the new strategic imperative impacting national sovereignty, national security, and national digital infrastructure. Countries lagging in terrestrial broadband residential and enterprise infrastructure can use satellite broadband to help fill the gap with advanced countries and attract more foreign direct investment and the digitalization of industry sectors.”

    Technological advancements, such as spaceborne synthetic aperture radar (SAR) for detailed surface mapping and satellite-to-ground optical (laser) technology for ultra-high-speed data transmission, 5G Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN), and satellite device-to-device technology, will enhance remote sensing and communications capabilities. Quantum key distribution (QKD) for satellite communications could boost data transmission security for banks, data center companies, government data centers, and corporate data centers. These technologies will all benefit the space economy in 2025.

    Rojas concludes: “The space economy has been intertwined with the oil and gas and mining sector for several decades already, and now with the falling communications costs of satellite broadband combined with new technologies, many sectors from agriculture to maritime to emergency and disaster response to media will benefit from the pervasiveness of satellite coverage as well as the new capacity that is coming online, reflecting an increase of over 65X between 2015 and 2025.”

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Global: Colonial-era borders create conflict in Africa’s oceans – how to resolve them

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Ifesinachi Okafor-Yarwood, Lecturer in Sustainable Futures, University of St Andrews

    Africa has 38 coastal and island nations. Their maritime industries – including energy, tourism, maritime transport, shipping and fishing – play a crucial role in developing these nations.

    Key to harnessing these resources are Africa’s maritime boundaries – lines on a map showing the legal divisions of the ocean between neighbouring coastal states.

    Some of these boundaries were created by colonial powers and kept after independence. Their purpose was to achieve territorial security and ensure the exclusive exploitation of resources and to maintain navigational freedom.

    But Africa’s maritime boundaries sometimes lead to conflict, prevent cooperation on resource management and create room for maritime crimes, like illegal fishing. This is because they are often contested. Countries have overlapping claims and varying interests in resource exploration. This is common in maritime areas rich in oil, gas and fisheries, and deep seabed resources.

    In our recent paper we found that using international law to resolve maritime boundaries does not always bring peace, especially when it results in ceding the disputed area to one party. It can result in animosity between countries and breed room for continued distrust among peoples.

    Today, Africa has the most unresolved maritime boundary disputes in the world and the lowest number of settled boundary disputes.

    As more ocean resources are discovered, climate change may heighten disputes. Rising sea levels can gradually submerge maritime zones, potentially affecting the baselines from which these zones are measured. This could create uncertainty or trigger new conflicts.

    In our paper, we suggest a collaborative approach to resolving maritime disputes. We hope that this will help prevent many African countries from missing out on the benefits of their oceans.

    Price of disputed boundaries

    Disagreements over maritime boundaries can have many negative effects.

    Research has shown that criminal activities tend to increase in disputed maritime boundaries. For instance, illegal fishers are aware that because there is dispute over a border, there will also be enforcement gaps.

    Countries in dispute will also not work together and will not be sending patrols to contested areas. For instance, in 2016, a Chinese vessel escaped into Sierra Leone to avoid capture. When Guinean naval forces boarded the vessel for enforcement, there was an exchange of fire and 11 Guineans were detained by Sierra Leone.

    When boundaries are disputed, it also means that local fishers are likely to encroach into neighbouring waters, often unknowingly, in search of better catches. Given the significance of fisheries to coastal livelihoods and the extent of depletion, this threatens peace and security. It fuels tension between communities and countries over access to dwindling resources.

    Disagreements over maritime boundaries also diminish maritime security cooperation, complicate joint patrols, and divert attention from tackling shared threats such as piracy.

    Colonialism never ended

    Unfortunately, resolving maritime boundary disputes is complicated by a principle in international law known as uti possidetis juris – “as you possess under law”.

    The principle says that when countries argue over borders, international law, built around colonial-era boundaries, is used to decide who gets what. This creates a “winner-takes-all” approach – one side gains control over the disputed area and resources. International courts, like the International Court of Justice and the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea, follow the provisions of law reinforcing uti possidetis.

    Our examination of maritime boundary disputes in west and central Africa found that the principle of uti possidetis juris had failed to alleviate maritime boundary tensions. In some cases, it has exacerbated them.

    One example is a maritime dispute between Cameroon and Nigeria decided in 2002. The dispute was over who had control of Bakassi, an oil-rich region, and its maritime frontier.

    The uti possidetis juris principle upheld the lines drawn at the time of Nigeria’s independence and resulted in the ceding of Bakassi to Cameroon. The impact of the resolution lingers. To date, thousands of displaced Bakassi people that returned to Nigeria have yet to be resettled and reintegrated. Disputes also continue between fishers from Nigeria and Cameroonian law enforcement agents. In extreme cases, it results in death, like the alleged killing of 97 Nigerian fishers by Cameroonian marine police.

    The way forward

    In our paper, we recommend that courts, tribunals or disputing countries consider joint management agreements to resolve maritime disputes. Under such agreements, countries share and manage disputed maritime resources.

    These agreements will allow for the joint management of shared resources. It will also encourage cooperation and collaboration in other areas, such as joint operations to combat illegal fishing and piracy. While international courts may apply uti possidetis juris as required by law, countries should be encouraged to negotiate special arrangements – such as joint development agreements – as part of the resolution process. Especially in cases where livelihoods and longstanding community ties risk being disrupted by unilateral decisions or the ceding of disputed areas to one party.

    While not perfect, this approach has already improved cooperation on security and resource use at sea. It has worked in places like Nigeria, São Tomé and Príncipe, Senegal and Guinea-Bissau. Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire also have a joint management framework in place for their shared boundaries to avoid future disputes.

    Prolonged boundary disputes only enable criminal actors to exploit Africa’s resources, undermining collective progress. A shift towards collaborative solutions is essential for achieving a sustainable and prosperous future for the continent.

    Ifesinachi Okafor-Yarwood receives funding from the PEW Charitable Trust and the Research Council of Norway. The St Andrews Research Internship Scheme (StARIS) supported the initial peer-reviewed research.

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

    ref. Colonial-era borders create conflict in Africa’s oceans – how to resolve them – https://theconversation.com/colonial-era-borders-create-conflict-in-africas-oceans-how-to-resolve-them-248577

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Colonial-era borders create conflict in Africa’s oceans – how to resolve them

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Ifesinachi Okafor-Yarwood, Lecturer in Sustainable Futures, University of St Andrews

    Africa has 38 coastal and island nations. Their maritime industries – including energy, tourism, maritime transport, shipping and fishing – play a crucial role in developing these nations.

    Key to harnessing these resources are Africa’s maritime boundaries – lines on a map showing the legal divisions of the ocean between neighbouring coastal states.

    Some of these boundaries were created by colonial powers and kept after independence. Their purpose was to achieve territorial security and ensure the exclusive exploitation of resources and to maintain navigational freedom.

    But Africa’s maritime boundaries sometimes lead to conflict, prevent cooperation on resource management and create room for maritime crimes, like illegal fishing. This is because they are often contested. Countries have overlapping claims and varying interests in resource exploration. This is common in maritime areas rich in oil, gas and fisheries, and deep seabed resources.

    In our recent paper we found that using international law to resolve maritime boundaries does not always bring peace, especially when it results in ceding the disputed area to one party. It can result in animosity between countries and breed room for continued distrust among peoples.

    Today, Africa has the most unresolved maritime boundary disputes in the world and the lowest number of settled boundary disputes.

    As more ocean resources are discovered, climate change may heighten disputes. Rising sea levels can gradually submerge maritime zones, potentially affecting the baselines from which these zones are measured. This could create uncertainty or trigger new conflicts.

    In our paper, we suggest a collaborative approach to resolving maritime disputes. We hope that this will help prevent many African countries from missing out on the benefits of their oceans.

    Price of disputed boundaries

    Disagreements over maritime boundaries can have many negative effects.

    Research has shown that criminal activities tend to increase in disputed maritime boundaries. For instance, illegal fishers are aware that because there is dispute over a border, there will also be enforcement gaps.

    Countries in dispute will also not work together and will not be sending patrols to contested areas. For instance, in 2016, a Chinese vessel escaped into Sierra Leone to avoid capture. When Guinean naval forces boarded the vessel for enforcement, there was an exchange of fire and 11 Guineans were detained by Sierra Leone.

    When boundaries are disputed, it also means that local fishers are likely to encroach into neighbouring waters, often unknowingly, in search of better catches. Given the significance of fisheries to coastal livelihoods and the extent of depletion, this threatens peace and security. It fuels tension between communities and countries over access to dwindling resources.

    Disagreements over maritime boundaries also diminish maritime security cooperation, complicate joint patrols, and divert attention from tackling shared threats such as piracy.

    Colonialism never ended

    Unfortunately, resolving maritime boundary disputes is complicated by a principle in international law known as uti possidetis juris – “as you possess under law”.

    The principle says that when countries argue over borders, international law, built around colonial-era boundaries, is used to decide who gets what. This creates a “winner-takes-all” approach – one side gains control over the disputed area and resources. International courts, like the International Court of Justice and the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea, follow the provisions of law reinforcing uti possidetis.

    Our examination of maritime boundary disputes in west and central Africa found that the principle of uti possidetis juris had failed to alleviate maritime boundary tensions. In some cases, it has exacerbated them.

    One example is a maritime dispute between Cameroon and Nigeria decided in 2002. The dispute was over who had control of Bakassi, an oil-rich region, and its maritime frontier.

    The uti possidetis juris principle upheld the lines drawn at the time of Nigeria’s independence and resulted in the ceding of Bakassi to Cameroon. The impact of the resolution lingers. To date, thousands of displaced Bakassi people that returned to Nigeria have yet to be resettled and reintegrated. Disputes also continue between fishers from Nigeria and Cameroonian law enforcement agents. In extreme cases, it results in death, like the alleged killing of 97 Nigerian fishers by Cameroonian marine police.

    The way forward

    In our paper, we recommend that courts, tribunals or disputing countries consider joint management agreements to resolve maritime disputes. Under such agreements, countries share and manage disputed maritime resources.

    These agreements will allow for the joint management of shared resources. It will also encourage cooperation and collaboration in other areas, such as joint operations to combat illegal fishing and piracy. While international courts may apply uti possidetis juris as required by law, countries should be encouraged to negotiate special arrangements – such as joint development agreements – as part of the resolution process. Especially in cases where livelihoods and longstanding community ties risk being disrupted by unilateral decisions or the ceding of disputed areas to one party.

    While not perfect, this approach has already improved cooperation on security and resource use at sea. It has worked in places like Nigeria, São Tomé and Príncipe, Senegal and Guinea-Bissau. Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire also have a joint management framework in place for their shared boundaries to avoid future disputes.

    Prolonged boundary disputes only enable criminal actors to exploit Africa’s resources, undermining collective progress. A shift towards collaborative solutions is essential for achieving a sustainable and prosperous future for the continent.

    – Colonial-era borders create conflict in Africa’s oceans – how to resolve them
    – https://theconversation.com/colonial-era-borders-create-conflict-in-africas-oceans-how-to-resolve-them-248577

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £530 million investment prospectus launched

    Source: Scotland – City of Perth

    Presented to a high-profile audience of government representatives, private investors, developers, and funding bodies, the prospectus outlines eight transformative projects that collectively support Perth & Kinross’s ambitions to lead in sustainability and clean economic growth.

    Spanning a 15-year period from 2025 to 2040, the portfolio covers market-ready opportunities, and longer-term investor-led partnerships in energy and net zero, the circular economy, food and drink, light industrial, travel and logistics, leisure and retail, accommodation in tourism and residential. 

    Featured investments include:

    • Eco Innovation Park at Perth West
    • Perth City Heat Network
    • Strategic Energy Partnership
    • Advanced Plastics Sorting and Upcycling Facility
    • Binn Eco Park
    • Northfield Business Park
    • Cultural Quarter (Perth City Centre) Regeneration Project
    • Mill Quarter (Perth City Centre) Regeneration Project

    Perth & Kinross Council Leader Councillor Grant Laing said: “Over the past six years, Perth and Kinross has demonstrated its commitment to building a modern, resilient, and inclusive economy through an impressive £600 million public investment programme. This has supported essential infrastructure, cultural development, and growth in key economic sectors.

    “Now, the Investment Prospectus sets out a clear intention to build on these strong foundations, by providing an exciting platform for investor and developer-led partnerships, both domestically and internationally.

    “I believe the diversity and ambition of the projects on offer present a compelling case for doing business in Perth and Kinross. Alongside transformative, clean growth opportunities directly impacting our net zero ambitions, there are also traditional, property-based propositions designed to encourage and support existing business relocation into the area.”

    The £530 million proposition complements the Council’s existing £600 million+ investment in infrastructure, key sectors, and the arts, creating a powerful springboard for future growth.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council pledges to protect under-threat heritage building

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Published: Thursday, 22nd May 2025

    Efforts are being stepped up to safeguard the long-term future of an historic grade II listed building in Stoke-on-Trent.

    The city council is moving to protect the former Burslem Indoor Market building, in Queen Street, which is in an extremely poor condition.

    The building is in desperate need of emergency safeguarding works to ensure that it is safe, watertight and will not deteriorate any further.

    Now Stoke-on-Trent City Council is seeking grant funding from Historic England to enable it to carry out emergency repairs to the roof, to stop the building falling into further disrepair.

    The council previously secured an emergency repair package made up of £318,000 from Historic England and £1.3 million from local Levelling Up Partnership funds to pay for safeguarding works at a number of historic buildings in Burslem.

    Now it is looking to apply for further support from Historic England in the form of a grant of up to £1 million.

    If successful, the additional money will go towards emergency repair works to the roof of the Burslem Indoor Market building, along with refurbishment of the building’s exterior.

    Stoke-on-Trent City Council’s Cabinet is being asked to agree to procure contractors to undertake the works, subject to a successful grant application, at a meeting on Tuesday 27 May.

    Councillor Jane Ashworth, leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “Our heritage buildings aren’t just the symbol of our proud past – they are part of our rich cultural heritage and can drive tourism and economic growth.

    “We are absolutely committed to doing everything we can to protect them. That means working in partnership with local organisations and businesses, Historic England – and the government, too.

    “The Burslem Indoor Market building is deteriorating quickly and investment now could potentially save far greater expenditure in the future – and more importantly, prevent it from falling into further disrepair.”

    The grade II listed indoor market opened in 1879 as a symbol of the city’s wealth and pride during the Victorian era. At its height it boasted 90 stalls – but that had dropped to 14 by the time the market closed in 2003 after the ceiling collapsed.

    Cllr Ashworth added: “Stoke-on-Trent is currently facing a heritage crisis. Many of our historic buildings are in a poor state of repair but we are spearheading efforts to identify funding streams, and potential new uses, to bring these buildings back to life.

    “We want to protect our heritage assets and safeguard them for the benefit of our residents now and for future generations.”

    In addition to Burslem Indoor Market, Stoke-on-Trent City Council is continuing to explore a number of options for the grade II* listed Wedgwood Institute which has fallen into disuse, due partly to water leaking in and causing damage.

    This includes using potential funds from the Schools Capital Programme for the extensive refurbishment of each of the rooms on the ground floor of the building so it can be used for education purposes in the future.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New UK-Japan partnership to boost economic growth and cultural exchanges

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    New UK-Japan partnership to boost economic growth and cultural exchanges

    Boost for UK businesses and growth as new Musubi Initiative strengthens UK-Japan connections

    • Innovative public-private partnership to encourage investment and grow the next generation of UK and Japanese leaders, while creating new opportunities for sports programmes, youth scholarships and cultural exchanges
    • Backed by major partners including UCL, Liverpool FC International Academy, SSE Pacifico and Hello Kitty presented by Sanrio

    Current and future business leaders across the UK and Japan will benefit from a range of new opportunities thanks to the innovative Musubi Initiative launched at the World Expo in Osaka by UK Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy today.

    The initiative, which begins a new phase of UK-Japan cooperation, will draw in private funding to support a diverse range of programmes to create lasting connections spanning youth scholarships, sport, cultural exchanges, science, innovation and opportunities for women in business in both countries. It builds upon the UK and Japan’s increasingly strong relationship, reflected in collaboration on defence, security, digital innovation and expanding trade through the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and the Hiroshima Accord.

    Named after the Japanese word for ‘connection’, the Musubi Initiative is a first-of-its-kind for the UK-Japan partnership and will strengthen ties and grow the international talent pool needed to grasp future opportunities.

    Unveiled as part of the UK National Day celebrations at World Expo 2025 Osaka, it represents another step forward in delivering the Government’s Plan for Change by fostering international relationships that drive economic growth and opportunity.

    UK Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, Lisa Nandy said:

    The UK’s vibrant display in Osaka demonstrates the breadth of creativity and innovation from across our four nations and our strong partnership with Japan. From BBC Planet Earth and Paddington to our world-famous musicians, the UK’s creative industries are a truly global hit, worth £125 billion to our economy and vital to our Plan for Change – it’s great to see them in the spotlight today as part of UK National Day.

    I am delighted that we have deepened our relationship with Japan further through this new Musubi Initiative, which will create even more opportunities for businesses in both the UK and Japan now and in the future.

    Pioneer Partners

    The Culture Secretary announced the first group of Musubi Pioneer Partners, who will help deliver the initiative’s vision, including:

    Sports programmes: 

    • Liverpool Football Club International Academy sports programme supported by Musubi developing young players and providing opportunities to build leadership qualities. 
    • The UK Ekiden, inspired by Japan’s famous relay race, with UK and Japanese university students participating. 

    Educational programmes: 

    • A new Musubi Scholarship with University College London supported by Amano Enzyme Inc. for Japanese students, building on an over 160-year relationship between the university and Japan. 
    • A Youth Offshore Wind Scholarship Programme with SSE Pacifico to foster future talent in the offshore wind sector, including study abroad opportunities in Scotland. 
    • The Robert Walters career development programme to help bright young people, including Chevening Scholars, reach their full potential.

    Leadership programmes: 

    • An event focussed on Women’s Economic Empowerment and strengthening relationships between female exporters in Japan and the UK, co-hosted by the UK and Japan at Osaka Expo.   
    • The Musubi Alumni programme will bring together the talent and potential of alumni across our programmes. 

    Representing the strong links between the UK and Japan, Hello Kitty presented by Sanrio, the globally popular Japanese brand, will be the Musubi Friendship Ambassador, while Japanese firm Dentsu PR Consulting Inc. will be providing PR advisory services.

    The programmes under the Musubi Initiative will be delivered with an ambition to create a long-lasting legacy and network of alumni that will become champions of their communities, their country and of UK-Japan relations.

    The Culture Secretary has also been in Japan to promote Britain’s creative industries overseas, push British brands within Japanese markets, and attract trade and investment into the UK that can be redistributed across the country to the places where it is needed the most. 

    Yesterday (21 May) the Culture Secretary met with Minoru Kiuchi, a senior Japanese minister with responsibility for the Cool Japan Strategy, in Tokyo to discuss strengthening creative industries collaboration. She also met with executives from major video games organisations, including Bandai Namco and Nintendo, as well as the Japanese cast of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. 

    Japan is currently the UK’s 6th largest investor, with an inward Foreign Direct Investment stock of more than £86 billion at the end of 2023, and with bilateral trade worth £31 billion in 2024. Japanese investment into the UK has already roughly doubled over the last decade, with nearly 1,000 Japanese companies sustaining 200,000 UK jobs.

    Exports Minister Gareth Thomas said: 

    The UK and Japan enjoy a dynamic and enduring trading relationship, with £86 billion in investment to the UK economy.

    As part of the Government’s Plan for Change, initiatives like the Musubi Initiative and Expo 2025 are helping to strengthen our ties with key economic partners, creating new opportunities for businesses and deepening people-to-people connections across the world.

     Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya said:

    It is connections between people that develop our societies and serve as a foundation for exchanges between countries. 

    In the Japan-UK Hiroshima Accord, issued by the leaders of Japan and the UK in 2023, we also confirmed our cooperation in revitalising people-to-people exchanges, including in the key areas of tourism, studying abroad, culture, and the working holiday programme.

    I hope this initiative will strengthen our “Musubi (bonds)” especially among the younger generation and that our partnership, now stronger than ever, will continue to grow.

    The UK’s presence at World Expo 2025 is providing a global showcase for British companies and creative talent.

    To mark UK National Day (22 May), there were musical performances from all four UK nations featured across Yumeshima Island, from bagpipes to bass guitars. This was followed by the Japanese premiere of BBC’s ‘Planet Earth III Live in Concert’.

    ENDS

    Notes to editors:

    • Supporting VisitBritain’s new Starring GREAT Britain campaign, beloved characters including Paddington, Peter Rabbit and Shaun the Sheep made appearances outside the UK Pavilion, delighting visitors as the campaign trailer played across the Expo site.

    • UK National Day highlighted creative collaborations between British and Japanese performers, with Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo performers joined by traditional Japanese Taiko Drummers, music from BBC Planet Earth III performed by the Japan Century Symphony Orchestra, and British rapper Shao Dow performing in Japanese.

    • The British Ambassador to Japan, Julia Longbottom, said: “We want Musubi to live up to its name, creating and supporting the leaders of tomorrow by fostering long-term, meaningful connections between people in the UK and Japan. The relationship between the UK and Japan is stronger than ever, and we want to invite as many even more businesses and organisations to join us as we look to build the shared leadership needed to grasp future opportunities and tackle future challenges.”

    • UK Commissioner General for Expo 2025, Carolyn Davidson said: “With an estimated audience of over 28 million expected Japanese and international visitors and more than 150 countries represented, Expo 2025 Osaka offers a unique platform to raise awareness of the UK as a dynamic and innovative country on the world stage. Our National Day is a representation of the best of British and Japanese fusion from across our creative industries, and I am delighted that our countries’ close partnership will be further enriched through Project Musubi, boosting our people-to-people connections and delivering projects that invest in the next generation of UK and Japanese leaders.”

    • Images and b-roll from UK National Day: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCeHb4

    • Musical Performances at UK National Day included:

    o   The Japanese premiere of BBC Planet Earth III Live in Concert with music performed by the Japan Century Symphony Orchestra, conducted by British conductor Matthew Freeman, featuring a score by Oscar winner Hans Zimmer, Jacob Shea and Sara Barone

    o   The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, accompanied by Miyamoto Unosuke Shoten Taiko drummers

    o   Shao Dow (England), :Panic :Over (Northern Ireland), Nina Nesbitt (Scotland), and Strawberry Guy (Wales) – all former recipients of the UK’s Music Export Growth Scheme Awards

    • World Expo 2025 Osaka runs from 13 April – 13 October 2025, and is expected to attract 28 million visitors. For more information: https://www.ukatexpo2025.uk/

    • The “Starring GREAT Britain” campaign launched by VisitBritain in January 2025 promotes UK tourism through iconic film and TV locations.

    •  The UK’s presence at Expo 2025 forms part of the UK Government’s GREAT Campaign, which promotes the UK internationally and has delivered billions in economic returns.

    Notes to Editors on the Musubi Initiative:

    The Musubi Friendship Ambassador – Hello Kitty presented by Sanrio. We are grateful to Sanrio for providing Hello Kitty as the Friendship Ambassador for the Musubi Initiative. Sanrio’s vision of “One World, Connecting Smiles” aligns with Musubi’s objective to build positive people-to-people relationships and we look forward to working with Sanrio’s world-famous characters to achieve this. Hello Kitty was born and raised in London as a schoolgirl and now an iconic Japanese character, she is not only a great representative for our two countries, but she also represents the deep desire among our people to feel joy and happiness. We look forward to working with her to reinforce connections between people of the UK and Japan.  

    We are grateful to the Japanese firm Dentsu PR Consulting Inc. for joining the Musubi Initiative as a Pioneer Partner providing PR advisory services. We welcome their support as we work to showcase the best of Musubi – and UK-Japan – connections.

    Full details of the initial programmes to be supported through the Musubi Initiative include: 

    Educational programmes: 

    • Musubi UCL scholarship: The Musubi scholarship with University College London, supported by Amano Enzyme Inc., gives Japanese students the opportunity to study a one-year Masters programme at UCL. The scholarship will form part of UCL’s Global Scholarships targeting students from various background with the aim of increasing diversity. 

    • SSE Pacifico Offshore Wind Scholarship Programme supported by Musubi: With a focus on fostering future talent in the dynamic offshore wind sector, SSE Pacifico, in collaboration with Musubi, will launch a scholarship programme to support young students from Japan. This initiative will offer short-term study opportunities in the UK, with the goal of upskilling and empowering the next generation of young leaders. 

    • Musubi Robert Walters career development programme: Robert Walters Japan, a Specialist Recruitment & Talent Advisory firm with roots in the UK and 25 years of expertise in Japan, will deliver a tailored career development programme for the 2025-26 recipients of the UK Government’s Chevening scholarship, with a view to extending this to future Musubi scholars. 

    Sports programmes: 

    • Liverpool Football Club International Academy sports programme supported by Musubi: With a commitment to empowering disadvantaged young people, 2025 Premier League winners Liverpool Football Club offer their LFC International Academy Japan soccer programme in connection to the Musubi initiative. Drawing on the power of sport to build connections and confidence, this will focus on developing young players and providing opportunities to learn new skills and build leadership qualities.

    • UK Ekiden: Musubi is proud to be connected to the UK Ekiden – a team relay race inspired by Japan’s beloved running tradition. With university students leading the main event and school children joining through the Mini Ekiden programme, it brings people together across generations. More than a race, it’s a celebration of teamwork, connection, and the growing friendship between the UK and Japan. Like the Musubi initiative, the UK Ekiden builds personal connections and unites different cultures. 

    Leadership programmes: 

    • Women’s Economic Empowerment: British Embassy Tokyo and Japan will host a joint Women’s Economic Empowerment Forum at the UK Expo Pavillion. This will focus on strengthening relationships between female exporters in Japan and the UK and is the first in-person event the UK and Japan have run under the Women’s Economic Empowerment chapter in the UK-Japan Free Trade Agreement. We hope that this event will be the first of many Musubi activities investing in female leaders of the future.    

    • Musubi Alumni: Our Alumni programme will bring together the talent and potential of Alumni across our programmes.  This Network will give our Alumni the connection, inspiration and empowerment to help realise their ambitions of building a better world.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI USA: Castro, Salazar, Cherfilus-McCormick, and Lawler Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen U.S.-Caribbean Relations

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

    May 22, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Joaquin Castro (D-TX), Ranking Member of the Western Hemisphere Subcommittee, Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar (R-FL), Chair of the Western Hemisphere Subcommittee, Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL), Ranking Member of the Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee, and Mike Lawler (R-NY), Chairman of the Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee, introduced the Strengthening U.S.-Caribbean Partnership Act. This bipartisan bill would improve the relationship between the United States and the Caribbean by designating the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) as an international organization with diplomatic privileges and immunities consistent with the International Organization Immunities Act.  

    The International Organization Immunities Act, enacted in 1945, governs how the United States extends the rights and treaties generally accorded to embassies of countries that have diplomatic relations with the United States to international organizations like CARICOM.  

    “Today’s introduction of this bill demonstrates the bipartisan commitment to a strong U.S.-Caribbean relationship,” said Congressman Joaquin Castro. “This is an important step forward to engage more deeply with the Caribbean and offer our support through CARICOM. We share common interests — by strengthening U.S. ties in the Caribbean, we strengthen our nation’s security, economic well-being, and prosperity.”  

    “I am proud to support this bipartisan legislation extending full diplomatic privileges and immunities to the Caribbean Community (CARICOM),” said Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar. “As the Representative for Miami, the gateway to the Caribbean and home to one of the nation’s largest Caribbean American communities, I witness daily how our island partners’ success powers Miami’s commerce and tourism enriches our culture. Strengthening these bonds is not only good diplomacy; it is sound economic and national security policy. When the Caribbean thrives, the United States prospers!” 

    “The countless contributions of the Caribbean-American community can be felt and seen in communities across South Florida,” said Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick. “By strengthening our diplomatic engagement with CARICOM, we’re laying the necessary foundation for enhanced economic, security, and cultural ties that will yield long-term, strategic benefits.” 

    “The presence of Caribbean-American communities in the Hudson Valley is felt in everything from the food we enjoy to the churches, schools, and small businesses that keep our neighborhoods thriving,” said Congressman Mike Lawler. “By extending privileges and immunities to our partner countries in CARICOM, we can strengthen U.S. ties in the region. I’m eager to support legislation that promotes a foreign policy that reflects the lived experiences of the people I represent.”  

    Read the Strengthening U.S.-Caribbean Partnership Act here

    Background:

    Congressman Castro joined a bipartisan delegation of U.S. leaders for the 2023 CARICOM Conference to mark the organization’s 50th anniversary and to meet directly with regional leaders to discuss issues including regional security, economic growth, the climate crisis, and energy. More information on that delegation visit can be found here. 

    Castro has long prioritized U.S. engagement with the Caribbean as a core focus of his work on Western Hemisphere affairs. He previously introduced the bipartisan U.S-Caribbean Strategic Engagement Act, a comprehensive roadmap to modernize U.S. engagement with Caribbean nations that calls on the United States to prioritize regional issues including energy security, climate resilience, democracy, human rights, public health, food security, and illegal firearms trafficking from the U.S. to the Caribbean, as well as the Americas Regional Monitoring of Arms Sales (ARMAS) Act, legislation that seeks to disrupt firearm trafficking from the U.S. to the Caribbean by implementing stronger transparency, accountability, and oversight mechanisms for U.S. small arms exports. 


    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Addressing the Housing Crisis with $100M Fund

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced that applications are being accepted for the new $100 million Pro-Housing Supply Fund, another tool in her focused efforts to support communities statewide in tackling the housing crisis. The fund will support certified Pro-Housing Communities with financing essential infrastructure projects, such as sewer, electrical and water system upgrades, that are needed to facilitate new housing developments. Investing in infrastructure is critical to expanding housing supply across New York State. Many communities face barriers to higher-density development due to outdated or insufficient infrastructure. By modernizing these essential services, Pro-Housing Communities can unlock new and more affordable housing opportunities, attract private investment, and create more vibrant and sustainable neighborhoods.

    “New York has a housing affordability crisis — and the only way to solve it is to build more housing and offer support for our communities,” Governor Hochul said. “The Pro-Housing Supply Fund will aid communities by providing the funding needed to tackle this critical issue. By working with our local economic development partners at the local level, we will ensure that every region of the state is able to find real solutions to address the shortage, helping neighborhoods to thrive.”

    Eligible Applicants

    Pro-Housing certified cities, towns and villages can apply as well as county and municipally designated non-profit economic development organizations whose project is located within a Pro-Housing certified community. Eligible applicants can apply for grants between $2.5 million and $10 million for eligible projects. Applicants must complete and submit a Consolidated Funding Application for review by NYS and the Regional Economic Development Council for the region in which the proposed project is located. Applications must be submitted by Thursday, July 31 at 4 p.m.

    Eligible Projects & Selection Criteria

    Funding must be used for infrastructure projects that directly support the creation of new housing units. Eligible uses include the installation, extension or reconstruction of road, water, sewer, electrical or other utilities; design, permitting or engineering costs directly related to the infrastructure project (limited to 20 percent of total project cost); acquisition of machinery and equipment required for the ongoing operational use of the infrastructure project; site preparation or demolition directly related to the infrastructure project; and other eligible capital uses as determined by Empire State Development.

    Projects will be evaluated based on the criteria outlined in the program guidelines which include, but are not limited to, a demonstrated commitment to directly support a housing project based on infrastructure improvements, number of housing units to be supported, the degree to which the project supports the creation of new housing in areas with a demonstrated workforce and/or affordable housing need, project readiness, the amount of leveraged funding, demonstrated local government support and alignment with regional priorities and Smart Growth principles.

    Making Housing Affordable and Accessible

    The $100 million Pro-Housing Supply Fund Initiative is among the more than $1.5 billion in new state funding for housing in the FY26 Enacted Budget and part of Governor Hochul’s comprehensive strategy to tackle the housing crisis. Without resources, some communities may not have the ability to design and adopt pro-housing policies such as master plans, zoning text updates, and streamlined permitting procedures. To help ensure more localities that want to promote housing growth have the ability to do so, Governor Hochul also secured $5.25 million in new grant funding to provide technical assistance to communities seeking to foster housing growth and associated municipal development.

    In July of 2023, Governor Hochul signed Executive Order 30 creating the Pro-Housing Communities Program, which recognizes, and rewards municipalities actively working to unlock their housing potential and encourages others to follow suit. In the FY25 Enacted Budget, Governor Hochul made the “Pro-Housing Community” designation a requirement for municipalities to access up to $650 million in State discretionary programs. To date, over 300 localities have been certified, with more than 470 submitting letters of intent from all corners of New York State.

    Empire State Development President, CEO & Commissioner Hope Knight said, “The Pro-Housing Supply Fund will be instrumental in encouraging and supporting municipalities that are ready to actively address New York’s housing crisis and accelerate the construction of much-needed residential units. This fund is an example of the innovative opportunities and dynamic solutions that, under Governor Hochul’s leadership, will make a real difference in every region of the state.”

    New York Secretary of State and REDC Chair Walter T. Mosley said, “Governor Hochul has made it abundantly clear that housing stands at the epicenter of successful and equitable economic development, community revitalization and affordability. With this $100 million commitment, communities will be equipped with the necessary infrastructure to meet her housing goals and facilitate the construction of much-needed homes for New Yorkers to live, raise families and create vibrant and diverse communities.”

    New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, “This $100 million Pro-Housing Supply Fund is key to helping us reach our ambitious goals to provide more housing opportunity for all New Yorkers. Governor Hochul promised that the 2026 Budget would be a gamer-changer, and for housing policy, it certainly is another history-maker. We have more than 300 Pro-Housing Communities certified to date and it’s clear that the program is shaping New York’s future, town by town and city by city. Smart, purposeful housing growth aligned with local economic development goals will help us all flourish.”

    About the Regional Economic Development Councils

    The Regional Economic Development Council initiative is a key component of the State’s approach to State investment and economic development. In 2011, 10 Regional Councils were established to develop long-term strategic plans for economic growth for their regions. The Councils are public-private partnerships made up of local experts and stakeholders from business, academia, local government, and non-governmental organizations. The Regional Councils have redefined the way New York invests in jobs and economic growth by putting in place a community-based, bottom-up approach and establishing a competitive process for State resources. Learn more at regionalcouncils.ny.gov.

    About Empire State Development

    Empire State Development is New York’s chief economic development agency, and promotes business growth, job creation, and greater economic opportunity throughout the state. With offices in each of the state’s 10 regions, ESD oversees the Regional Economic Development Councils, supports broadband equity through the ConnectALL office, and is growing the workforce of tomorrow through the Office of Strategic Workforce Development. The agency engages with emerging and next generation industries like clean energy and semiconductor manufacturing looking to grow in New York State, operates a network of assistance centers to help small businesses grow and succeed, and promotes the state’s world class tourism destinations through I LOVE NY. For more information, please visit esd.ny.gov, and connect with ESD on LinkedIn, Facebook and X.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Promoting knowledge learning and transfer in the crafts and heritage restoration professions – E-000968/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The traditional crafts and heritage occupations typically require vocational education and training (VET). The Commission has recently launched the Union of Skills[1], a comprehensive strategy that addresses skills across all levels of education, and across all sectors of the economy, so that artisans can be supported to sustain and preserve their skills.

    Organisations from the craft and heritage sector can join the European Alliance for Apprenticeship (EAfA)[2] to network and exchange with other organisations, i.e. about how to reduce administrative burden.

    Under the Pact for Skills, the large-scale skills partnership for Cultural and Creative industries[3] identified supporting VET initiatives that can serve the preservation and the further development of technical skills, arts and crafts as the priority.

    Thanks to Regulation (EU) 2023/2411[4], as from December 2025, producers of craft and industrial products will be able to obtain an EU-wide registration of their geographical indication. This new protection tool is known for helping to pass on know-how, particularly to younger generations.

    Horizon Europe currently funds four projects on ‘traditional crafts for the future: a new approach’[5]. The Erasmus+ programme contributes to the learning and exchange of know-how in the crafts, as part of VET learning mobility of apprentices and cooperation projects[6].

    The Creative Europe programme contributes to the preservation of cultural heritage, including the transmission and promotion of heritage professionals’ skills and craft through several actions among which are Europa Nostra[7] and Culture Moves Europe[8].

    Artisans specialising in heritage restoration may apply for individual mobility grants and participate in residencies.

    • [1] https://commission.europa.eu/topics/eu-competitiveness/union-skills_en.
    • [2] https://employment-social-affairs.ec.europa.eu/policies-and-activities/skills-and-qualifications/working-together/european-alliance-apprenticeships_en.
    • [3] https://pact-for-skills.ec.europa.eu/about/industrial-ecosystems-and-partnerships/creative-and-cultural-industries_en.
    • [4] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2023/2411/oj/eng.
    • [5] Namely Tracks4crafts, Colour4crafts, Hephaestus, and Craeft; https://cordis.europa.eu/programme/id/HORIZON_HORIZON-CL2-2022-HERITAGE-01-04.
      Other crafts-focused projects include Culturality (https://culturalityproject.eu/), aimed at promoting rural and remote areas through cultural tourism activities leveraging traditional crafts, CRAFT-IT4SD (https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/101132596), focused on craft revitalization for futureproofing the transition to innovative technologies for sustainable development, and Make-a-Thek (https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/101177660/fr), Modular library makerspaces for heritage crafts innovation and digitization.
    • [6] For more information on Erasmus+ opportunities, please refer to: https://op.europa.eu/en/publication-detail/-/publication/4f38e3b2-39b7-11ed-9c68-01aa75ed71a1/language-en.
    • [7] A pan-European network dedicated to the promotion of heritage professional voices.
    • [8] A mobility scheme for artists and cultural professionals in all 40 creative Europe countries and covering sectors such as architecture and cultural heritage.
    Last updated: 22 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Wave of Russian tourism gains momentum in China

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, May 22 (Xinhua) — China and Russia have declared 2024-2025 as the Years of Culture. Diverse humanitarian exchanges between the two countries have become an important bridge for deepening bilateral relations and strengthening friendship between the peoples of both countries. The growing flow of tourists from Russia to China has become a bright stroke in the picture of humanitarian interaction between the two countries.

    As reported by the newspaper “Kitayskaya Kultura”, at a recent presentation of tourism resources in the Beidaihe district of Qinhuangdao City (Hebei Province, Northern China), a representative of the Russian side noted that the golden beaches and warm sun of this region are very popular with Russian tourists, expressing hope for even closer cooperation in the future.

    By the end of 2024, Beidaihe’s foreign tourist flow was 30.9 thousand people-times, of which 24.5 thousand people-times were Russian citizens. Since the beginning of 2025, friendly artistic competitions and other events aimed at attracting even more Russian tourists have been held here.

    “We will definitely bring more Russians to Weihai!” said representatives of 31 Russian tour operators during a familiarization tour of the Huancui District of Weihai City in Shandong Province /East China/, during which they visited the local iconic structure – the “Gate of Happiness”. Charter flights from Vladivostok and Khabarovsk to Shandong are expected to launch in July this year, and the current tour operators’ visit is aimed at developing new tourist routes.

    As of October 2024, China and Russia have established 167 pairs of sister city relations between cities and provinces, which has contributed to the rapid development of tourism.

    According to the Chinese travel platform Ctrip, during the May holidays of this year, bookings of tours to China for tourists from Russia increased by 213 percent year-on-year.

    The number of Russian tourists on Hainan Island /South China/ is also growing rapidly. Factors such as affordable prices, quality service, developed resort infrastructure and a variety of tourist programs contribute to the active growth of sales of relevant tourist products.

    A large number of Russians arrive in the city of Heihe in Heilongjiang Province /Northeast China/ every day. They visit local restaurants and intangible cultural heritage workshops. A regular visitor to the city, Natalia, noted that she likes traditional Chinese medicine methods – acupuncture and massage. “I have even mastered some techniques and now give massages to my family members.”

    The growing tourist flow is stimulating the modernization of services. “In April, we received 36 groups of 258 Russian tourists, and in May we expect 19 groups of 184 people,” said Li Fan, head of the international department of Tianma International Travel Service in Zhangjiajie, Hunan Province, Central China. Since the beginning of the year, the number of Russian tourists in this company has increased by 50 percent compared to the same period last year. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: International cricket in Canberra this summer

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    In brief:

    • The 2025-26 international cricket schedule has launched.
    • This includes two matches in Canberra at Manuka Oval.
    • This article includes details plus the full Season 2025-26 international schedule around Australia.

    Canberra will host two international cricket matches this summer.

    In the much-anticipated summer of cricket, featuring the next edition of the Ashes against England, 26 international matches will be played in 11 cities across Australia.

    For the first time in 17 years, there will be matches in every state and territory capital.

    The international season kicks off in August 2025 with a men’s ODI and T20I series against South Africa and concludes eight months later in March 2026 with a women’s test match against India.

    Australia to face India in Canberra

    Both the Australian men’s and women’s teams will take on India at Manuka Oval.

    The Men’s T20I Series v India match will be played on Wednesday, 29 October 2025.

    The men’s blockbuster white ball series will include the first five-match T20I series between the cricket heavyweights.

    The Women’s T20I Series v India will be played on Thursday, 19 February 2026.

    The Australian women will host a multiformat series against the rapidly emerging Indian team.

    Canberrans flocked to see international, domestic and local cricket played at Manuka Oval last summer.

    This included the most-ever attendees to a women’s international fixture played at Manuka Oval.

    Ticket details

    International ticket pre-sales will begin on Tuesday, 3 June. This is for fans who have registered through Cricket Australia.

    General public tickets will go on sale on Friday, 13 June.

    The schedule at a glance

    • NRMA Insurance men’s Ashes includes Gabba D/N Test and Adelaide Christmas Test
    • Blockbuster India men’s white ball series features first five match T20 series
    • Women’s multiformat series against India with Test Match at the redeveloped WACA Ground and three big stadium games
    • Northern Series returns in tourist hot spots Darwin, Cairns and Mackay.

    2025–26 International Schedule  

    Men’s T20I Series v South Africa  

    Sunday, August 10: Marrara Stadium, Darwin (N)

    Tuesday August 12: Marrara Stadium, Darwin, (N)

    Saturday, August 16: Cazalys Stadium, Cairns, (N)

    Men’s ODI Series v South Africa  

    Tuesday, August 19: Cazalys Stadium, Cairns, (D/N)

    Friday, August 22: Great Barrier Reef Arena, Mackay, (D/N)

    Sunday, August 24: Great Barrier Reef Arena, Mackay, (D/N)

    Men’s ODI Series v India 

    Sunday, October 19: Perth Stadium, Perth, (D/N)

    Thursday, October 23: Adelaide Oval, Adelaide, (D/N)

    Saturday, October 25: SCG, Sydney, (D/N)

    Men’s T20I Series v India 

    Wednesday, October 29: Manuka Oval, Canberra, (N)

    Friday, October 31: MCG, Melbourne, (N)

    Monday, November 2: Bellerive Oval, Hobart, (N)

    Thursday, November 6: Carrara Stadium, Gold Coast, (N)

    Saturday, November 8: The Gabba, Brisbane, (N)

    NRMA Insurance Men’s Ashes  

    21-25 November: West Test, Perth Stadium, Perth

    4-8 December: Day-Night Test, The Gabba, Brisbane

    17-21 December: Christmas Test, Adelaide Oval, Adelaide

    26-30 December: Boxing Day Test, MCG, Melbourne

    4-8 January: Pink Test, SCG, Sydney

    Women’s T20I Series v India 

    Sunday, February 15: SCG, Sydney, (N)

    Thursday, February 19: Manuka Oval, Canberra, (N)

    Saturday, February 21: Adelaide Oval, Adelaide, (N)

    Women’s ODI Series v India 

    Tuesday, February 24: Allan Border Field, Brisbane, (D/N)

    Friday, February 27: Bellerive Oval, Hobart, (D/N)

    Sunday March 1: Junction Oval, Melbourne, (D/N)

    Women’s Test v India 

    March 6-9: WACA Ground, Perth


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    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI USA: More Than $50M Awarded By Restore NY Communities

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced that more than $50 million has been awarded to 50 projects through the State’s Restore New York Communities Initiative. Restore New York supports municipal revitalization efforts with funds to help remove and reduce blight, reinvigorate communities and generate new residential and economic opportunities statewide. The program, administered by Empire State Development, is designed to help local governments encourage new commercial investments through community revitalization, growing local housing, and putting properties back on the tax rolls to increase the local tax base.

    “Revitalizing and rehabilitating vacant and blighted areas of our communities for housing or development is vital to make downtowns thrive,” Governor Hochul said. “Restore New York helps our municipalities plan for the future by catalyzing economic growth and supporting housing, businesses and cultural spaces. We are further unlocking the potential of these sites and communities across New York.”

    Two applications were awarded a Special Project designation because, if left undeveloped, the parcel or property causes severe economic injury or creates a depressing effect on the overall economic development potential of the community. The City of Rome was awarded $3.5 million to rehabilitate two buildings that were destroyed by the tornado that touched down in Rome on July 16, 2024. Upon completion, these buildings will add an additional 180,000 square feet of commercial manufacturing space to the community. Additionally, the City of Ogdensburg was awarded $3.5 million to rehabilitate several historic mill buildings on the St. Lawrence River waterfront into a mixed-use complex.

    Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York State is building for the future by supporting projects that advance statewide priorities like increasing housing and revitalizing communities. Through the Restore New York Communities Initiative, we are working together with municipalities to remove blight and generate new investments to promote sustainable economic growth.”

    A full list of Restore New York projects awarded funding in this round is available below, or online here.

    The Capital Region was awarded more than $4.45 million to support four projects:

    • Village of Colonie – $999,934: This project involves demolishing an abandoned, deteriorating building at 1579 Central Avenue, making the property readily available for future development opportunities.
    • City of Glens Falls – $1 million: The “Lofts at Warren” project, located at 109 and 115-117 Warren Street, will involve the demolition of two garages and the redevelopment of two vacant lots. The resulting mixed-use building will consist of 3,000 square-feet of first-floor commercial space and 65 one- and two-bedroom apartments on three floors. The commercial space will be utilized by retail and office storefront space leased to small businesses serving the City’s distressed First Ward and high-traffic Warren Street Corridor.
    • Village of Hoosick Falls – $985,000: This project involves the rehabilitation of a vacant warehouse at 1 Center Street into a mixed-use property with commercial opportunities and one- and two-bedroom residential units. It will provide incubator space at fixed rates, with plans for a locally owned brewery and gym/fitness center.
    • City of Schenectady – $1.5 million: The St. Clare’s Hospital redevelopment project will rehabilitate one of the largest buildings in the city – a 400,000 square foot building at 600 McClellan Street – on a 17-acre site. The building will be repurposed into a mixed-use property with approximately 236 apartments with on-site daycare and is part of a targeted redevelopment effort by the City and Schenectady Metroplex Development Authority.

    Central New York was awarded $6 million to support seven projects:

    • Village of Cayuga – $1 million: This project will transform a 20,000 square-foot vacant and deteriorated office building into a waterfront lodging destination. Located at the Beacon Bay Marina, 6255 Water Street, this redevelopment will include the creation of 10-15 one or two-bedroom suites, and a small outdoor rooftop event space with scenic views.
    • City of Cortland – $242,000: This project involves the demolition of a property, formerly known as the Roundhouse Mill, at 41 Elm Street. Set in an otherwise largely residential neighborhood, the mill has been vacant and deteriorating for several years, and demolition will allow for the future redevelopment of the 1.5-acre site, part of the City’s Brownfield Opportunity Area.
    • City of Fulton$1 million: This project will redevelop the blighted former Nestle Building at 533 South 4th Street into a 30,000 square-foot advanced manufacturing incubator, targeting startup companies and fostering regional economic growth. The new facility will serve as a hub for innovation, supporting the needs of emerging manufacturers and leveraging opportunities created by the Micron semiconductor plant being developed in nearby Clay. The outcome will be a state-of-the-art facility, designed to drive job creation, industrial innovation and sustained regional development.
    • City of Oneida – $1 million: This project involves the partial demolition and rehabilitation of two vacant and severely dilapidated structures at 136 and 138 Madison Street. The buildings will retain their historic character, with each accessible to the other via a common elevator and stairwell, and new spaces added on the upper floors. Parking will be constructed to service the project. The redevelopment will include 15 live/work units and is across the street from a previous Restore New York project at 155 Madison Street.
    • Onondaga County – $1 million: The Milton Corner Development project consists of the reconstruction of five contiguous lots at 2281, 2273, 2263, 2259 and 2243 Milton Avenue in Solvay that were previously developed, but lost to a fire several years ago. The developer plans to demolish remaining walls and foundations and build a mixed-use building with parking and storage in the basement area. On the street level, the building will offer 12,000 square feet of new retail space and 33 apartments on the upper three floors.
    • City of Oswego – $700,000: The Oswego Freight House redevelopment will transform the historic 7,200-square-foot rail freight house at 20-24 West Utica Street into a 10-brewer barrel brewery, taproom, and retail space. The project will preserve the building’s 175-year-old character while addressing years of structural decay and blight. Located near the City’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative projects, this redevelopment will leverage completed and ongoing investments to further revitalize the Utica Street corridor.
    • City of Syracuse – $1.058 million: This project aims to transform two vacant, underutilized and blighted properties at 366 and 615 West Onondaga Street into approximately 31 new housing units, including both market-rate and affordable options, alongside six office suites. This project falls within the City’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative zone.

    The Finger Lakes was awarded $5.94 million to support six projects:

    • Village of Dansville – $710,000: This project involves a historic, three-story building at 154-162 Main Street that has been vacant for years and mostly uninhabitable. Phase one is nearing completion and includes the restoration of five first-floor commercial units returning the façade to its original design. Restore New York funding will support Phase Two, which includes the creation of four affordable, one-bedroom and four market-rate two-bedroom apartments on the vacant second and third floors. Windows, doors, and historic features such as trim work will be restored and reused wherever possible.
    • City of Geneva – $1 million: The DeSales High School Revitalization Project will consist of the comprehensive renovation of the interior and exterior of the long vacant school at 136 and 138 Madison Street. The renovated property will feature 17 market-rate residential units and four commercial offices while retaining the existing gym, which will continue to be leased to a local school.
    • Town of Macedon – $480,000: This project involves the renovation and restoration of 103 Main Street, which has been left underutilized and vacant. The first-floor commercial unit will be rehabilitated into restaurant space, and the walk-out basement transformed into storage and utility space. Three loft-style apartment units will be built on the upper floor. The project will include electrical, HVAC, and plumbing upgrades; construction of an elevator shaft and elevator; accessibility upgrades; and a new side entrance that will provide easy access to the Trolley Town Square public park.
    • Monroe County – $2 million: Built in 1929, the Genesee Valley Trust Building (now the Times-Square Building) at 45 Exchange Street is one of Rochester’s most iconic high-rises. Post-COVID the building has become mostly vacant. This project intends to convert the vacant floors into market-rate apartments, while refreshing 15,000 square feet of existing space into modern, attractive commercial and retail suites. This project in total will convert over 100,000 square feet of space into a certified historic rehabilitation project, approved by the New York State Historic Preservation Office and the National Parks Service.
    • Village of Medina – $850,000: This project intends to re-activate a historic mixed-use building at 409-13 Main Street, known as the Waters Building, by creating two commercial units in the rear-facing, sub-grade space; a new commercial flex kitchen at street-level; and four new residential units in the structure’s fully vacant upper story. This project will provide an enhanced destination and add an amenity to a planned waterfront destination.
    • Village of Phelps – $900,000: This project will restore and revitalize the 1892-era Phelps Hotel at 90 Main Street, which has been vacant for approximately 40 years. In an effort to restore the interior to its historic roots, the project will involve significant renovations in order for the building to be considered habitable. The reconstruction will include installing plumbing, electrical and HVAC systems, and creating eight upper-story residential units alongside a restaurant and speakeasy on the first floor and basement.

    Long Island– The Long Island Region was awarded $1.79 million to support two projects:

    • Village of Port Jefferson – $790,000: This project includes the demolition and redevelopment of 1506 and 1510-1512 Main Street. This will allow for the future redevelopment of an approximately 35,290 gross square foot, four-story mixed-use building consisting of 42 multi-family residential units, and approximately 1,800 square feet of commercial space.
    • Suffolk County – $1 million: This project is the development of a multi-family, mixed income rental housing at 309 Merritt Avenue in the Hamlet of Wyandanch in the Town of Babylon. The development will include 81 residential units in a 4-story, 82,000 square foot building with proximity to transit. This location is the site of a former cream distributor that has already been demolished. The ground floor of the development will include parking, a lobby, management office, common laundry and a fitness center.

    The Mid-Hudson Region was awarded more than $4.24 million to support six projects:

    • City of Kingston– $477,000: Located at the entrance of the Cornell Street arts corridor, the long-dormant commercial property at 289 Foxhall Avenue will be rehabilitated for the purchase and use by Headstone, Inc., creating new opportunities for jobs, apprenticeships and job shadowing for high school students. Studio spaces will be available to lease by local independent artisans and will provide administrative spaces for local arts organizations. Parking lots will be landscaped to anticipate planned street redesign and provide a welcoming space on a street that has become an arts destination.
    • City of Poughkeepsie– $1 million: The project will renovate the upper floors of the historic Bardavon Opera House at 31 Market Street and the adjacent three-story building at 39 Market Street into a single 35,000 square-foot, five-story mixed-use development. This will create 49 new residential units, that range from studio to two-bedroom apartments, and make improvements to the building’s mechanical systems and structural stability. The entire ground level will be rehabilitated, activating retail space that has been vacant for years.
    • Town of Cornwall – $800,000: The project will transform a long vacant former car dealership at 317 Main Street into a new, upscale 52-unit boutique hotel with a full-service restaurant and bar in the heart of the town. The project will create 35 new full-time hospitality positions and address a significant shortfall in Orange County lodging options, as determined by a study completed by the Orange County Department of Tourism and Film.
    • Town of Fallsburg – $755,450: The proposed project involves the demolition of a condemned schoolhouse at 36 Laurel Avenue and site preparation for the future construction of a 5,000-square-foot healthcare facility. The cleared, shovel-ready site and enhanced infrastructure will support the construction of a permanent medical home for underserved residents.
    • Town of Rockland – $1 million: The Livingston Legacy Holdings Project will transform seven long vacant, formerly commercial structures on 10 Pleasant Street into a bustling multi-use hospitality campus, featuring a restaurant, a sake brewery and tasting room, open air market, public gardens and multi-use spaces for other community-defined needs. Once complete, this campus will feature a much-needed venue suitable for large gatherings and social events requiring large spaces, parking, and catering capabilities.
    • Village of Sleepy Hollow –$211,500: This project is for site deconstruction, cleanup and improvements for 64/68 Beekman Avenue. This vacant and neglected site is located at the heart of the Village’s main commercial corridor, squarely within its NY Forward boundary. Revitalization of the site will increase access to services and make the Village’s downtown more livable. The building at these properties burned down years ago and the site has been overgrown with scattered debris for more than a decade.

    The Mohawk Valley was awarded nearly $8 million to support six projects:

    • City of Rome – $3.5 million – Special Project: This project will repair, rehabilitate, and modernize two tornado-damaged vacant properties at 220 South Madison Street and 522 Henry Street. The EF-2 tornado that swept through the region on July 16, 2024 extensively damaged the 180,000-square-foot facility, collapsing portions of the roof, shattering windows, blowing out entire exterior walls and damaging critical electrical infrastructure. One building will be developed for mixed use with first-floor commercial and event space, and the other will become the largest available industrial space in the Utica-Rome metropolitan statistical area.
    • City of Amsterdam – $1 million: This project will involve the conversion of the former Sonoco Paper Mill at 58-62 Forest Road into a bakery, brewpub and retail location. Upon completion the site will serve as the production and distribution center for Boogie Lab Bakery. The conversion of this abandoned factory into a new production facility for the Bakery and a Brewpub is expected to bring at least 150 jobs to the city.
    • Village of Boonville – $1 million: The Boone Building at 133, 135 and 139 Main Street suffered a devastating fire in 2020, hollowing out the core of the village’s downtown. Reconstruction is planned that will create three first-floor commercial spaces to house a sporting goods store, artisanal meat market, and jewelry store/boutique gift shop. The two upper floors will be ten residential one- and two-bedroom units.
    • Village of Cooperstown – $1 million: This project will demolish 217 Main Street, the site of a former cheese factory, furniture store and baseball bat factory that has sat vacant for years. After demolition, a 50-unit, elevator serviced three-story apartment building will be constructed. This development will yield sorely needed accessible, affordable, and permanent supportive housing, featuring energy efficiency and green building practices, with on-site parking and amenities.
    • Village of Herkimer – $1 million: This project involves the rehabilitation of the historic former Masonic Temple, a 17,524-square-foot property on 415 N. Main Street, into a vibrant commercial hub addressing long-term vacancy and structural decline. The project will develop spaces for diverse business uses, including the region’s only certified kitchen to support food-based enterprises. This project resolves safety and aesthetic concerns, mitigates blight, and leverages the Village’s $10 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative to drive economic growth.
    • Village of Richfield Springs – $469,593: The total project includes the rehabilitation and renovation of 241 Main Street into an inn with guest rooms, an event center, and re-establishing the historic mineral spas. Outside renovations include securing the building’s envelope by replacing the roof, repairing the chimney and steps, installing gutters, and updating the fire escape. Inside renovations include transforming the fourth floor into an apartment, renovating the third-floor bathrooms and laundry room, upgrading electrical and HVAC, and repairing the plumbing.

    The North Country was awarded more than $8.6 million to support eight projects:

    • City of Ogdensburg – $3.5 Million – Special Project: This project includes the adaptive reuse of 119 W. River Street, a long-abandoned former waterfront hotel property situated along the St. Lawrence River. This transformative downtown initiative focuses on restoring two historic stone mill buildings to create a vibrant mixed-use destination, including 10 residential apartments. The redevelopment will breathe new life into a blighted area, enhance the local economy, and provide unique retail, residential, recreational, and dining opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
    • Village of Canton – $749,997: This project will demolish 6,400 square feet of vacant buildings and reconstruct 4,500 square feet of commercial and event space at 15 Gouverneur Street. The objective is to create a welcoming, functional mixed-use space that restores the beauty and history of Canton’s downtown waterfront and increases economic activity and opportunities.
    • Town of Elizabethtown – $500,000: The project involves two buildings on a single parcel of land at 13 Lawrence Way. The Hale House is a 6,500 square foot, 200-year-old building that was once a single-family home, but today is mostly vacant. It will be rehabilitated into four apartments – each approximately 1,650 square feet – aimed to attract young families and professionals. Additionally, the Law Library is completely vacant and lacks heat, water, and wastewater, and will be rehabilitated into a single unit.
    • Town of Lowville – $560,000: The project will redevelop approximately 6,500 square-feet of vacant space at 7623 North State Street, a historic brick block building in Downtown. Funding will assist with the costs for the installation of electrical and plumbing throughout the building, the construction of an ADA-compliant elevator, a stairwell, masonry repairs, and the construction of eight market-rate housing units and amenities.
    • Town of Martinsburg – $1 million: The General Martin Apartments project repurposes the former Glenfield Elementary School at 5960 Main Street into 63 affordable housing units. This adaptive reuse will include 55 one-bedroom, six two-bedroom, and two studio apartments. The building will undergo substantial renovations, incorporating community amenities like a fitness center, laundry facilities, a community room and an outdoor garden.
    • City of Ogdensburg – $914,355: Small City Brewing Company will transform a vacant building at 110 Lake Street into a craft brewery, advancing the development of Ogdensburg’s Marina District – a Brownfield Opportunity Area. The project will include a manufacturing facility with a commercial grade five-barrel brewing system and the addition of a 400 square foot grain room. SCBC plans to wholesale to restaurants and bars and open a retail tasting room on-site with a commercial kitchen and event space.
    • City of Plattsburgh – $405,000: The 5500 Peru Street project is aimed at revitalizing a multi-use building in a key area within the community. This project involves the reconstruction of a building that has been mostly vacant since 2006 into two residential units and more than 4,300 square feet of renovated commercial space.
    • Village of Waddington – $1 million: The former St. Paul’s Episcopal Church at 129 Lincoln Avenue is a 5,120-square-foot stone Georgian structure built in 1818. The now-vacant structure faces severe decay, threatening its place within the historic district. The Village plans to stabilize and rehabilitate the site, comprising the church, the adjoining brick rectory, and a rear wooden garage, to create a multi-use, non-sectarian recreational hub. This transformation will preserve its architectural heritage while drawing new residents, fostering community engagement and providing entertainment options.

    The Southern Tier was awarded $5.4 million to support seven projects:

    • City of Corning – $600,000: The project involves the historic rehabilitation and adaptive re-use of the former Steuben County Courthouse at 10 West First Street into seven apartment-style, market-rate residential units.
    • City of Elmira – $1 million: The Carriage House Inn Project consists of the complete renovation and adaptive reuse of 254 Baldwin Street, transforming the property into a boutique-style hotel to support and develop Elmira’s tourism arts and cultural industries. The finished site will house the Tommy Hilfiger Archive, event space, and 12 hotel rooms.
    • Village of Franklin – $1 million: Funds will support the rehabilitation of three adjoining, vacant, commercial/mixed-use properties at 438-444 Main Street in the heart of the Village’s Historic District totaling 13,500 square feet. The vacant and under-utilized space will be redeveloped into five new commercial businesses and a new apartment. The businesses include a restaurant, café/art studio, arcade & lounge, retail shop and commercial office space, seeking to fill the void of commercial businesses/services that are being sought by visitors.
    • Village of Hammondsport – $1 million: Restore funds will advance the redevelopment of the Curtiss School on 15 Bauder Avenue into 24 apartments, providing workforce housing ideal for young professionals and older adults. The redevelopment will also address the deteriorating building structure, particularly the roof. The building’s gymnasium will be adapted into commercial space ideal for retail, office or other community focused use.
    • City of Hornell – $300,000: The Landman Building is prominently located at 83-93 Main Street in downtown Hornell across from City Hall. The proposed project includes a full adaptive reuse of the existing building, with the addition of a third story. Once completed, the building will be a mixed-use development that will bring more residents and business opportunities into the downtown.
    • Village of Johnson City – $500,000: The proposed project consists of selective internal demolition and rehabilitation at the vacant former David College at 400 Riverside Drive to accommodate 62 apartments, five single-family homes and approximately 22,000 square feet of commercial space.
    • City of Norwich – $1 million: This two-story, 12,400-square-foot former office building at 23 East Main Street will be repurposed to meet critical community needs. The first floor will become a childcare center for 46 children, addressing Chenango County’s childcare desert. The second floor will house Commerce Chenango offices with a reception area, boardroom and conference space, supporting local businesses. The site’s emergency generator and location also position it for FEMA shelter designation, further strengthening community resilience.

    Western New York was awarded more than $6.1 million to support six projects:

    • Village of Almond – $1 million: This project includes the partial demolition and complete rehabilitation of a condemned, vacant and previously abandoned property known as “The Old Coslo’s Building” at 59 Main Street. The project proposes to rehabilitate this parcel into a mixed-use facility with five retail stores, 14 offices and four low-income apartments.
    • City of Jamestown – $721,704: The proposed Prendergast Landing redevelopment project aims to revitalize a historic, vacant building at 106-8 Fairmount Avenue and two adjacent lots into a vibrant, family-friendly destination. The refurbished three-story building will foster local economic growth by featuring a small café, a retail outfitter for outdoor activities, and a boutique showcasing local small businesses on the ground floor. The second floor will offer flexible office spaces ideal for entrepreneurs and a multipurpose room for community events. The third floor will provide three residential lofts that enhance the living experience close to recreational amenities.
    • Town of Niagara – $890,000: This project will redevelop a commercial site at 3505 Hyde Park Boulevard by rehabbing a 62,000 square foot building for future potential manufacturing, as well as demolishing other dilapidated buildings on the site to make way for more than 15 acres of industrial space.
    • Niagara County – $1.25 million: This project will rehab property along Cayuga Creek at 519 Cayuga Drive in Niagara Falls to create a mixed-use complex. They will be focused on the restoration of the retail space, the rehab of the apartments upstairs and the buildout of the dock with 15 new slips for recreational boaters to visit the neighborhood via the water.
    • City of Niagara Falls – $1.25 million: Funding will support a portion of the Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center Community Initiative. The Medical Center parking garage located at 620 10th Street is in bad condition and several sections are no longer accessible due to structural damage. Medical offices located on the top floor of this garage will be moved to the existing hospital across the street. Once demolished, the open space will be reconstructed into a flat parking area and a new parking garage will be constructed across the street at 621 10th Street.
    • City of North Tonawanda – $1 million: The Riverfront Vista project includes redevelopment of the former Metzger Removal site, a 3.1-acre brownfield site that encompasses 235 River Road and 190 Main Street. The $33.3 million project consists of a mixed-use residential and commercial project comprised of a four-story multi-family building with 48 apartment units and a mixed-use building with 39 apartments along with over 7,600 square-feet of commercial space and 2,690 square feet of community space.

    State Senator Sean Ryan said, “Restore NY is one of New York’s most impactful economic development programs. It encourages new business by reducing vacancy and paving the way for new commercial development. These awards will help turn underutilized properties into assets for the surrounding communities.”

    Assemblymember Al Stirpe said, “This round of awards, made possible by Governor Hochul and Restore New York, takes smart and strategic steps to breathe life back into our communities. Mitigating damage and restoring blighted structures will attract new business and restore the character of local towns in a sustainable way — conserving resources and building materials in the process. By bolstering local revitalization efforts, these projects open municipalities to economic, environmental, and residential opportunities that enhance quality of life for all New Yorkers.”

    These awards complement Governor Hochul’s economic development vision by making strategic investments in communities across the State which revitalize the economy and create more opportunities for New Yorkers. The FY2026 Budget invests $100 million for the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and $100 million for NY Forward. These programs help municipalities promote quality of life, foster socio-economic development and create walkable, livable and safer neighborhoods in every corner of the state. Additionally, the $400 million Championing Albany’s Potential initiative, a collaborative, State-led effort to revitalize Albany’s downtown core. The Budget also includes funding for the state’s Regional Economic Development Council initiative; new this year, the 10 councils will compete, in part, for $150 million in funding as part of the new ACHIEVE initiative to advance catalytic economic development projects backed by enhanced implementation funding to jump-start regional growth.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Global: Eight years after arena attack, Manchester bee commercialisation has unsettled some Mancunians

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Ashley Collar, PhD Candidate in Sociology & Associate Lecturer in Criminology at MMU, University of Manchester

    espesorroche/Shutterstock

    If you visit Manchester, one of the first things you’ll notice is the great number of bee images throughout the city. Born in the Industrial Revolution, the “worker bee” symbol captured the city’s tireless spirit and its legacy as a buzzing hive of industry. Today, the symbol is more often associated with collective resilience and remembrance following the Manchester Arena attack on May 22 2017.

    The bee became a powerful symbol of the “Mancunian spirit”, emerging almost instantly on murals, on bodies as tattoos and on public memorials. Over the last eight years, it has become a core part of Manchester’s identity.

    A memorial at Manchester’s Victoria station in May 2024.
    Ashley Collar

    As part of my ongoing PhD research, I set out to understand why the bee is everywhere in Manchester and what it means to people. I interviewed 24 Mancunians who were living in the city at the time of the attack, including some who were directly affected.

    Conducted in 2023, seven years after the attack, these interviews aimed to capture how the symbol’s meaning had evolved as the city continued to process and commemorate the event.

    For many, the bee still stands as a symbol of resilience, a reminder of how the city came together in the face of tragedy. But for others, its presence throughout Manchester has become more of a burden than a comfort.

    Appearing on buses, shop windows and public spaces, it serves as a constant and eerie reminder of the events and aftermath of the attack. Eight of my interviewees described these as memories of “trauma”. Over time, what once felt comforting has become more unsettling.

    Manchester City Council coat of arms, with bees buzzing around the Earth.
    By IndysNotHere – Self – Made / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-NC-SA

    Fifteen of my interviewees expressed discomfort with how the bee has become more commercialised in the years since the attack. Some described feelings of “exploitation”.

    Both independent businesses and large companies have embraced the symbol, integrating it into their branding in public spaces. Many sell bee-themed gifts and souvenirs, such as fridge magnets, coasters and beanies.

    Manchester city council has played a key role in this commercialisation, promoting the image through various initiatives, including the Bee Network transport system and the Bee Cup – a reusable takeaway cup launched in 2023.

    In June 2017, shortly after the attack, the council moved to trademark several versions of the bee as an official city symbol. This was made public in March 2018, after the period for objections had passed.

    Initially, the council allowed people and businesses to use the symbol for free, but later introduced a licensing scheme. Now, anyone wishing to use the trademarked versions of the bee must apply for permission from the council, and commercial use comes with a £500 fee. Businesses that want to use the bee are also asked to donate to charity.

    The bee appears on souvenirs like fridge magnets.
    Ashley Collar

    The council described the trademarking of the bee symbol as a way to protect its use and support local good causes, such as the We Love MCR Charity, which helps fund community projects and youth opportunities across the city.

    But some of my participants noted that this transformed the bee from something personal and meaningful to something more corporate. In their view, it is as if the city itself is commodifying the attack rather than honouring it.

    This can be viewed as an element of “dark tourism”, which involves visiting places where tragedy has been memorialised or commercialised. In Manchester this manifests not through visits to the attack site but through the bee symbol, which has been commodified in murals, merchandise and public spaces. Tourists buy into collective grief through consumption, turning remembrance into a marketable experience and the bee as a managed and profitable commodity.

    M&S: One of many shop windows that now incorporate the Manchester bee.
    Ashley Collar

    Some Manchester Arena bombing survivors I spoke to feel that their personal grief has been repackaged into a public identity, one that does not necessarily reflect the complexity of their experiences.

    The use of the bee in products and souvenirs raises questions about how the city commercialises its identity, especially when considering the layered histories that the symbol carries.

    Uncomfortable history

    For some, the discomfort around Manchester’s bee goes even deeper. Today, the bee symbolises resilience and unity, but it originally represented hard work during Manchester’s industrial boom.

    This era wasn’t just about progress — it also involved exploitation and colonial trade especially through cotton produced by enslaved people in the Americas. Manchester’s role in the industrial revolution would have never been possible without slavery.

    My participants pointed out this hidden history, noticing that these stories rarely appear in Manchester’s public commemorations in the city. The bee’s visibility today reveals how cities tend to highlight positive histories, while uncomfortable truths remain hidden.

    A painted window in Manchester’s Victoria station.
    Ashley Collar

    Focusing solely on resilience risks creating a simplified version of Manchester’s past. This can exclude some people in the present, overlooking how historical injustices, like the city’s links to the transatlantic slave trade, still shape their lives today.

    This selective storytelling makes it harder for some communities to commemorate Manchester’s identity. They can’t do so without acknowledging past legacies of slavery and the city’s history of division.

    While some see the bee as a proud symbol of unity, others feel it erases their history. As the bee continues to dominate public spaces, Manchester faces an important challenge: making sure this symbol genuinely acknowledges the varied experiences and histories of all residents.

    This might be through dedicated plaques or exhibits that explore some of these hidden histories, and the bee’s complex meaning. Only by confronting its past can the city ensure that commemoration includes everyone.

    Ashley Collar receives funding from ESRC (Economic Social and Research Council) as part of her PhD Doctoral Scholarship.

    ref. Eight years after arena attack, Manchester bee commercialisation has unsettled some Mancunians – https://theconversation.com/eight-years-after-arena-attack-manchester-bee-commercialisation-has-unsettled-some-mancunians-256753

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Harbin International Economic and Trade Fair serves as a platform for promoting regional cooperation between China and Russia

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    HARBIN, May 22 (Xinhua) — The 34th Harbin International Economic and Trade Fair, which recently concluded in the city of Harbin, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, has injected new impetus into cooperation between the Chinese border province and Russian regions.

    One of the main topics of the event, which took place from May 17 to 21, was regional cooperation between China and Russia.

    The Heilongjiang Province is separated from some Russian regions only by the Heilongjiang River /Amur/. “The Amur does not simply divide us, but on the contrary, connects us. This is a connection of two neighbors,” noted the acting governor of the Jewish Autonomous Region /JAR/ Maria Kostyuk, calling the Heilongjiang Province the only such strategic partner for the JAR.

    M. Kostyuk participated in the Harbin International Trade and Economic Fair for the first time in the capacity of the head of the region. Previously, she had visited the exhibition many times when she worked in the mayor’s office of the city of Birobidzhan.

    “We worked together with our sister city Hegang in Heilongjiang Province not only on exchanging businessmen, but also introducing businesses to each other’s territory so that we could have very proper cooperation. For the second year in a row, Birobidzhan and Hegang have presented a joint exposition at the Harbin International Trade and Economic Fair,” she noted.

    In addition to Hegang and Birobidzhan, sister city relations have been established between Chinese and Russian cities such as Heihe and Blagoveshchensk, as well as Tongjiang and Bogdanovich, which helps to unlock the potential for cooperation between the border areas of the two countries.

    “In terms of humanitarian cooperation, the Amur Region is the leader among other regions of Russia in terms of the number of Russian-Chinese joint events, just as the Heilongjiang Province is among Chinese regions,” emphasized the Governor of the Amur Region Vasily Orlov in an interview with the media on the sidelines of the 34th Harbin International Trade and Economic Fair.

    “We have more than 200 events. They are held annually, there are very bright, iconic ones that have become the calling card of our cities – Blagoveshchensk and Heihe, as well as the Amur Region and Heilongjiang Province,” he explained, expressing hope that in the future the level of these events will increase through the involvement of additional partner regions on both sides.

    Both leaders of Russian regions also noted the dynamics of development of cooperation with Heilongjiang Province in such areas as agriculture, logistics and tourism.

    On the sidelines of the current Harbin International Trade and Economic Fair, the Russian Export Center (REC) organized another festival-fair “Made in Russia.” It featured products from over 100 Russian manufacturers from 50 regions of the country.

    During the festival-fair, specialized negotiations on the B2B model were also held between Chinese and Russian companies, which, according to REC General Director Veronika Nikishina, provided a unique opportunity to establish important business contacts and expand the horizons of cooperation.

    REC is organizing a similar festival-fair on the sidelines of the Harbin International Trade and Economic Fair for the second time. As part of the event, a Made in Russia retail store also opened in Harbin.

    “I think that candies and chocolates made in Russia have a unique and rich taste, and they are inexpensive. Our whole family likes them very much,” said one shopper surnamed Sun.

    “We opened the first warehouse distribution center in Suifenhe, Heilongjiang Province, with an area of over 4,500 square meters, to supply and continuously provide the Made in Russia retail chain with original and high-quality Russian products,” explained V. Nikishina, noting that from the point of view of the extensive development of the national brand, the Chinese market is one of the most important and promising in the world.

    According to M. Kostyuk, residents of China and Russia are always interested in communicating with each other as neighbors and close people. “We already have experience of long-term cooperation with border cities of Heilongjiang Province. We must also go together today along one path in order to develop our mutual cooperation,” she summarized. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Samoa at Osaka World Expo 2025

    Source:

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    By: Asuisui Fofoa Matafeo

    Samoas’ presence and visibility is on the global stage at Osaka Japan World Expo 2025.

    Capitalizing on the international stage to profile Samoa’s export commodities and goods complemented by Samoa’s revere tourism profile in bids to attract more visitors to Samoa, the Expo held every five years was officially opened on April 12th 2025.

    Her Excellency (H.E) Fa’alava’au Perina Sila Tualaulelei, Ambassador of Samoa to Japan led Samoa contingent at the official opening ceremonies.

    She was accompanied by Paul Oteta Ane, Representative of the Samoa Chamber of Commerce and Industry and representative from Government Press Secretariat and Savali Newspaper Principal Videographer and Filming, Asuisui Fofoa Matafeo.

    Samoa’s delegation also joined their global counterparts in commemorating the beginning of Expo activities, signaling Samoa’s readiness to share its distinctive culture, innovations, and future-focused vision with the world.

    Samoa’s exports and profile will remain on display at her pavilion showcasing handicrafts, clothing, food, and much more providing a wider platform for Samoa’s products to be noticed on the world stage.

    With millions in attendance, the Expo reaffirms unity and portray a future society through the ideas of life, world and the future.

    Osaka previously hosted a World Expo in 1970 that attracted 64 million visitors.

    The Expo is for 6 months and will close this October.

    Photos: Asuisui Fofoa Matafeo (Savali Newspaper)

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Global: Eight years after arena attack, the commercialisation of Manchester’s bee symbol has unsettled some Mancunians

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Ashley Collar, PhD Candidate in Sociology & Associate Lecturer at MMU, University of Manchester

    espesorroche/Shutterstock

    If you visit Manchester, one of the first things you’ll notice is the great number of bee images throughout the city. Born in the Industrial Revolution, the “worker bee” symbol captured the city’s tireless spirit and its legacy as a buzzing hive of industry. Today, the symbol is more often associated with collective resilience and remembrance following the Manchester Arena attack on May 22 2017.

    The bee became a powerful symbol of the “Mancunian spirit”, emerging almost instantly on murals, on bodies as tattoos and on public memorials. Over the last eight years, it has become a core part of Manchester’s identity.

    A memorial at Manchester’s Victoria station in May 2024.
    Ashley Collar

    As part of my ongoing PhD research, I set out to understand why the bee is everywhere in Manchester and what it means to people. I interviewed 24 Mancunians who were living in the city at the time of the attack, including some who were directly affected.

    Conducted in 2023, seven years after the attack, these interviews aimed to capture how the symbol’s meaning had evolved as the city continued to process and commemorate the event.

    For many, the bee still stands as a symbol of resilience, a reminder of how the city came together in the face of tragedy. But for others, its presence throughout Manchester has become more of a burden than a comfort.

    Appearing on buses, shop windows and public spaces, it serves as a constant and eerie reminder of the events and aftermath of the attack. Eight of my interviewees described these as memories of “trauma”. Over time, what once felt comforting has become more unsettling.

    Manchester City Council coat of arms, with bees buzzing around the Earth.
    By IndysNotHere – Self – Made / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-NC-SA

    Fifteen of my interviewees expressed discomfort with how the bee has become more commercialised in the years since the attack. Some described feelings of “exploitation”.

    Both independent businesses and large companies have embraced the symbol, integrating it into their branding in public spaces. Many sell bee-themed gifts and souvenirs, such as fridge magnets, coasters and beanies.

    Manchester city council has played a key role in this commercialisation, promoting the image through various initiatives, including the Bee Network transport system and the Bee Cup – a reusable takeaway cup launched in 2023.

    In June 2017, shortly after the attack, the council moved to trademark several versions of the bee as an official city symbol. This was made public in March 2018, after the period for objections had passed.

    Initially, the council allowed people and businesses to use the symbol for free, but later introduced a licensing scheme. Now, anyone wishing to use the trademarked versions of the bee must apply for permission from the council, and commercial use comes with a £500 fee. Businesses that want to use the bee are also asked to donate to charity.

    The bee appears on souvenirs like fridge magnets.
    Ashley Collar

    The council described the trademarking of the bee symbol as a way to protect its use and support local good causes, such as the We Love MCR Charity, which helps fund community projects and youth opportunities across the city.

    But some of my participants noted that this transformed the bee from something personal and meaningful to something more corporate. In their view, it is as if the city itself is commodifying the attack rather than honouring it.

    This can be viewed as an element of “dark tourism”, which involves visiting places where tragedy has been memorialised or commercialised. In Manchester this manifests not through visits to the attack site but through the bee symbol, which has been commodified in murals, merchandise and public spaces. Tourists buy into collective grief through consumption, turning remembrance into a marketable experience and the bee as a managed and profitable commodity.

    M&S: One of many shop windows that now incorporate the Manchester bee.
    Ashley Collar

    Some Manchester Arena bombing survivors I spoke to feel that their personal grief has been repackaged into a public identity, one that does not necessarily reflect the complexity of their experiences.

    The use of the bee in products and souvenirs raises questions about how the city commercialises its identity, especially when considering the layered histories that the symbol carries.

    Uncomfortable history

    For some, the discomfort around Manchester’s bee goes even deeper. Today, the bee symbolises resilience and unity, but it originally represented hard work during Manchester’s industrial boom.

    This era wasn’t just about progress — it also involved exploitation and colonial trade especially through cotton produced by enslaved people in the Americas. Manchester’s role in the industrial revolution would have never been possible without slavery.

    My participants pointed out this hidden history, noticing that these stories rarely appear in Manchester’s public commemorations in the city. The bee’s visibility today reveals how cities tend to highlight positive histories, while uncomfortable truths remain hidden.

    A painted window in Manchester’s Victoria station.
    Ashley Collar

    Focusing solely on resilience risks creating a simplified version of Manchester’s past. This can exclude some people in the present, overlooking how historical injustices, like the city’s links to the transatlantic slave trade, still shape their lives today.

    This selective storytelling makes it harder for some communities to commemorate Manchester’s identity. They can’t do so without acknowledging past legacies of slavery and the city’s history of division.

    While some see the bee as a proud symbol of unity, others feel it erases their history. As the bee continues to dominate public spaces, Manchester faces an important challenge: making sure this symbol genuinely acknowledges the varied experiences and histories of all residents.

    This might be through dedicated plaques or exhibits that explore some of these hidden histories, and the bee’s complex meaning. Only by confronting its past can the city ensure that commemoration includes everyone.

    Ashley Collar receives funding from ESRC (Economic Social and Research Council) as part of her PhD Doctoral Scholarship.

    ref. Eight years after arena attack, the commercialisation of Manchester’s bee symbol has unsettled some Mancunians – https://theconversation.com/eight-years-after-arena-attack-the-commercialisation-of-manchesters-bee-symbol-has-unsettled-some-mancunians-256753

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Proactive planning enforcement transforms Newport’s high street 22 May 2025 Community Council reveals that financial support has seen a large section of Newport’s high street restored

    Source: Aisle of Wight

    Newport and Carisbrooke Community Council has revealed that its financial support has seen a large section of Newport’s high street buildings restored, transforming the look and feel for residents and visitors alike.

    The Isle of Wight Council’s Planning Enforcement Strategy allows parish, town and community councils to fund additional planning enforcement in their patch to target specific areas. In the case of Newport and Carisbrooke Community Council, the priorities were buildings along Carisbrooke High Street and Newport High Street that were untidy and falling into a state of disrepair.

    With the extra capacity, the Isle of Wight Council has been able to work with property owners and occupiers to tackle over 50 untidy buildings. This partnership approach has seen 39 buildings being successfully restored through remedial works, with many more lined up for the same treatment. There has also been a ripple effect, where properties are now being restored without the need for intervention from the Council.

    The improved visual appearance of the high street has been positive and such changes are known to help improve civic pride and wellbeing too.

    Councillor Paul Fuller, cabinet member for planning, coastal protection and flooding, said: “the success of proactive planning enforcement action in Newport has been wonderful to see.”

    “It is positive to see landowners voluntarily taking measures to maintain and restore their buildings and shop frontages.”

    “Using proactive planning enforcement action to restore the appearance of buildings will help regain a sense of community and respect for the town which will hopefully create a socioeconomic benefit by drawing business back to the high street.”

    “This change will not only be visible to local residents, but to visitors and tourists visiting the Isle of Wight.”

    Councillor Vix Lowthion, chair of Newport and Carisbrooke Community Council said: “the visible improvements in our town centre and beyond have been remarked upon by visitors and locals alike.”

    “Our community council could only achieve these results through working in partnership with the IW Council, who have listened closely to the priorities of local ward councillors throughout.” 

    “I know I can speak for us all when I say it has certainly been money well spent.”

    Any parish or town councils who are interested in joining Lake Parish Council, Newport & Carisbrooke Community Council, Ryde Town Council and Sandown Town Council in funding additional planning enforcement capacity for their area should contact enforcement.team@iow.gov.uk.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI China: Beijing unveils new plan to protect Grand Canal culture

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

    Beijing has unveiled a new action plan for the protection and development of the Grand Canal’s cultural heritage in 2025, laying out 32 specific initiatives. 

    Among the highlights are the opening of a 15-kilometer cruise route on the Bahe River, the restoration of the Western Gate of the Summer Palace, and the second phase of archaeological research along the ancient riverbed of the Grand Canal in Tongzhou district.

    Stretching across seven districts – Changping, Haidian, Xicheng, Dongcheng, Chaoyang, Shunyi, and Tongzhou – the Beijing section of the Grand Canal is fed by springs such as Baifu and flows into the North Canal. Over the years, the city has worked to establish a development model that links key heritage sites along the canal. Notable progress includes the clearing of the Baifu Spring site and joint exhibitions with eight provincial-level regions along the waterway.

    One of the most anticipated projects is the Luxian County Ancient City Ruins Archaeological Park, set to open soon. As the earliest known Han dynasty (202 B.C.-A.D. 220) city site in the Tongzhou area, Luxian county offers rare insights into ancient craftsmanship such as pottery and metallurgy. Its discovery pushes the history of urban development in Tongzhou back by over 2,000 years.

    Efforts to improve ecology and environment of the canal are also gaining momentum. According to an official from the municipal development and reform commission, 500 million cubic meters of water have been replenished into the canal’s Beijing section. The 62-kilometer stretch of the North Canal connecting Beijing and Hebei is now fully navigable, and more than 50 kilometers of greenways have been built or upgraded. Water quality has also improved significantly, with no segments falling below national standards, according to the official.

    Meanwhile, cultural tourism is set for another boost. Following the opening of several major cultural venues in Beijing’s sub-center and the successful application of a 5A-rated Grand Canal tourist zone in Tongzhou, the city plans to further activate waterfront areas along the Bahe and Liangma rivers. Earlier this year, the INDIGO Harbor Dock – starting point for Bahe cruises – opened to the public. Later this year, residents will be able to enjoy boat rides from Jiuxianqiao in Chaoyang district all the way to the city’s sub-center in Tongzhou.

    Plans to upgrade public spaces along the canal are also in motion, with improvements coming to the livability of riverside areas, the redevelopment of key waterfront landmarks, and support for the growth of themed towns. 

    According the plan, this year will also feature a range of Grand Canal-related events, from cultural festivals and exhibitions to art programs and sporting competitions – all part of Beijing’s ongoing effort to breathe new life into its historical waterways.

    MIL OSI China News