Category: Tourism

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom and Visit California launch international tourism campaign welcoming Canadians to experience the warmth and love of the Golden State

    Source: US State of California 2

    Apr 14, 2025

    What you need to know: California is launching a new campaign to further strengthen tourism between California and Canada — reminding its international partners that the Golden State remains a welcoming, inclusive, and unparalleled travel destination.

    SACRAMENTO –  In response to recent declines in tourism created by President Trump’s policies, Governor Newsom and Visit California today announced the state will be launching a new international campaign to help maintain the strong tourism partnership between California and Canada, reminding Canadians that California is a grateful partner and remains one of the best — and most welcoming — destinations in the United States, and the world.

    “Sure, you-know-who is trying to stir things up back in D.C., but don’t let that ruin your beach plans. California is the ultimate playground — over 2,000 miles from Washington and a world away in mindset, from our iconic beaches and national parks to world-class wine, food, and outdoor adventure — there’s something here for everyone. Canada, come experience our California Love.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    President Trump’s economic and immigration policies are hurting nearly every economic sector, including the tourism industry. Since President Trump took office, tourism from Canada has dramatically declined, dropping 12% in February compared to the previous year. This is the first decrease in Canadian tourism to California since the COVID-19 pandemic. Last year, 1.8 million Canadians traveled to California, spending $3.72 billion in the Golden State. 

    California is taking decisive, strategic action — not only to stem this tide, but to send a clear message: California is open, welcoming, and deeply values its international visitors, especially Canadians. The upcoming campaign will extend Visit California’s $5.2 million annual marketing investment in Canada. 

    “California is committed to rolling out the red carpet for our Canadian visitors, whenever you’re ready to visit,” Visit California President & CEO Caroline Beteta said. “California and Canada share so much in common. Our inclusive values, love of natural beauty and passion for innovation bind us, and we look forward to welcoming you back with the same community spirit you’ve always shown us.”’
     

    Visit California is a nonprofit corporation funded by private travel, tourism and hospitality businesses in the state. No tax dollars will be used to fund this campaign.

    California Love

    All dreams are welcome in California. From the warmth of its people to its unmatched diversity of landscapes and activities, California is the ultimate playground — and a far cry from Washington, D.C. California will continue to be a welcome destination for its international neighbors to the north.

    For more about your next California adventure, see VisitCalifornia.com.

    Canada: A World of Opportunity 

    Canada is a top travel destination for California’s 40 million residents — pulling intrepid spirits to its friendly urban playgrounds, wide expanses of nature, and legendary outdoor sports locations. The campaign will help ensure that Canada remains a bright North Star for California travelers. 

     

    Expanding partnerships 

    This follows the Governor’s recent announcement of California’s goal to create new strategic trade relationships with international partners aimed at strengthening shared economic resilience and protecting California’s manufacturers, workers, farmers, businesses, and supply chains. As part of that effort, Governor Newsom today met with British Columbia Premier David Eby to discuss opportunities for expanding California’s partnership with Canada and shared priorities, including the lumber industry, national transportation corridors, and opportunities to expedite major projects and affordable housing.

    Meeting with British Columbia Premier David Eby. Photo may be credited to Governor Newsom’s Press Office

    California leads the nation in tourism 

    California is the nation’s #1 tourism destination. Travelers spent more than $150 billion in the state in 2023, generating $12.7 billion in state and local tax revenue. Nearly 1.2 million California workers depend on jobs in tourism and hospitality.

    Recent news

    News What you need to know: California will receive 32 new rangers and lifeguards serving across 13 state parks – protecting and informing more visitors ahead of the high travel season. PARADISE — While the federal government cuts staffing for national parks, Governor…

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring a special election for Assembly District 63 on August 26, 2025. The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below: SPECIAL ELECTION PROCLAMATIONBY THE GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF…

    News What you need to know: California is investing an additional $170 million to support forest and vegetation management projects critical to protecting communities from wildfire. SACRAMENTO – Protecting communities ahead of peak fire season, Governor Gavin Newsom…

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Moscow-India Tourism Industry Congress to be held in Russian capital

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    From July 10 to 13, the capital will host the large-scale tourism congress OTOAI Convention for the first time. It is organized by the Association of Outbound Tourism Operators of India with the support of the Moscow Government. The forum will bring together hundreds of specialists from relevant departments and employees of leading Moscow and Indian companies.

    “Business negotiations and expert presentations are planned. Foreign participants will be presented with opportunities for recreation in Moscow, and will be shown popular routes and sights on sightseeing tours,” she reported.

    Natalia Sergunina, Deputy Mayor of Moscow.

    She recalled that India is among the top three countries in terms of the number of travelers from distant countries coming to Moscow. In 2024, the city was visited by 1.4 times more citizens of this country than in 2023.

    “The congress will be a significant event for India-Russia relations in the tourism sector. Moscow has an ideal combination of historical heritage and modernity. This is what Indian travellers are looking for today. Our partnership with the Moscow Tourism Committee will enable Indian visitors to go beyond traditional tourist destinations. Through the conference, we plan to create a platform for growth in mutual tourist flows, which will benefit tour operators from both countries and help position Moscow as a leading outbound tourism destination in India,” said Himanshu Patil, President of the Indian Association of Outbound Travel Operators.

    Developing partnerships

    In January, the capital’s delegation took part in a major industry exhibition, Outbound Travel Mart, in India. Moscow representatives held over 1,200 negotiations. Among the main events was the signing of an agreement on joint work to increase tourist flow between Moscow and Mumbai. In addition, a cooperation agreement was signed with one of the leading travel companies. Now, Indian colleagues will come to the Russian capital to discuss new projects.

    Last year, Moscow hosted the international forum Meet Global MICE Congress: BRICS Edition. It brought together approximately 1.3 thousand business tourism industry specialists from the BRICS countries. The event included about two thousand meetings with potential partners.

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

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

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/152607073/

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI China: Services a major driving force behind China’s consumption growth: report

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

    HAIKOU, April 15 — China’s services consumption is not only rebounding but evolving rapidly, becoming a key driver of overall consumption growth, according to a report released by the China Institute for Reform and Development.

    The Hainan-based think tank published the report on Monday during this year’s China International Consumer Products Expo, the country’s only national-level exhibition focused on consumer goods, which is being held in the tropical island province.

    The report forecasts that by 2030, the per capita services consumption of China’s urban and rural residents could exceed 20,000 yuan (about 2,773 U.S. dollars), accounting for more than half of total consumption. The shift toward a services-oriented consumer society is expected to drive sustainable economic growth and transform consumption patterns.

    Services consumption has become a propeller of goods consumption, and a “goods-like services” trend is gaining momentum across the country, said Chi Fulin, head of the think tank.

    The report shows that traditional sectors are leading the recovery. Established go-tos for fun and relaxation, such as ski holidays and blockbuster films, are back in full swing.

    Winter tourism continues to gain popularity, particularly during peak travel periods. During the 2025 Spring Festival holiday, a total of 17.23 million visits were recorded across 934 ski resorts nationwide — a 10 percent increase from the previous year. For the 2024-2025 winter season, the number of people engaged in ice and snow tourism in China is estimated at 520 million.

    Earlier this year, China’s film industry also made a notable comeback. The 2025 Spring Festival box office hit a record 9.51 billion yuan, with 187 million moviegoers nationwide. Daily box office sales also reached new highs during the holiday season. The animated film “Ne Zha 2” made history by becoming the first Asian film to break into the global top five and top the global animation box office.

    While classic forms of services consumption like films and tourism continue to thrive, a new wave of digital experiences, led by generative artificial intelligence (AI), is rapidly reshaping China’s consumer landscape.

    According to the report, generative AI is enhancing and upgrading the consumer-end user experience as it is integrated into common internet applications, including instant messaging platforms, office software, and online customer service and creative tools.

    In December 2024, approximately 331 million people in China reported that they were aware of generative AI products, and about 249 million said they had used them. This surge in public engagement reflects the technology’s growing presence in everyday digital life, as well as its expanding influence on consumption patterns.

    Jiang Ying, chair of Deloitte China, anticipates that China will leverage its strength in rapid technological innovation further to boost demand. “China encourages the integration of emerging technologies like AI to enhance consumer experiences and create new consumption scenarios,” she added.

    In March, China made public a plan for special initiatives to increase consumption, as the world’s second-largest economy moves to make domestic demand the main engine and anchor of economic growth. The plan highlights services consumption quality enhancement.

    Chi emphasized that the next five to 10 years will be a critical period for China’s economic growth. He suggested that significant investments in people should be made to transform services consumption into a major force in the economy, making consumption a critical engine of sustained economic growth.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: Grottos get creative with their spaces

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    When Dunhuang is mentioned, the most lasting impression is of its historical inheritance, principally the must-visit painted grottos of the Mogao Caves.

    In addition to preserving this treasured heritage, the city in Gansu province is now seeking to become more contemporary and cater to different needs, by setting up multifunctional cultural venues and offering experiences with a modern touch.

    The Dunhuang Book Center is one such venue. Like other bookstores, it is stacked with books and creative cultural items, but it is also unmistakably of Dunhuang, with its exterior and interior design, titles and merchandise inspired by the grottoes and the murals.

    It opened in April 2022, and two years later, earned a spot on the “most beautiful bookstores of the year” list at the Third National Conference on Reading in Kunming, Yunnan province.

    Liu Xiaxia, general manager of the Dunhuang Gongmei Cultural Creativity Co Ltd, was its chief designer.

    “We had hoped the center to receive attention on social media platforms. And in the three years since, it has steadily grown in popularity,” Liu says.

    Covering around 800 square meters, it includes some 25,000 books categorized under sections such as Dunhuang history, murals, and calligraphy.

    The center also boasts its own “library cave”, a reference to Cave 17, which is famous for the 50,000 historical artifacts. These include manuscripts, documents, textiles and ritual ware, from the 4th to the 14th century, found inside it when it was reopened. In tribute to the cave, the center set up a unique space dedicated to more than 1,200 publications on Dunhuang manuscripts.

    “All of our books are about Dunhuang. Seventy percent of them have ‘Dunhuang’ written on their covers. Another of our features is our Dunhuang Inspiration brand. Our company has been developing cultural merchandise since 2016.”

    It has produced 50 series and more than 10,000 products. Each year, they introduce 1,000 new products. Visitors can easily find souvenirs to their liking, from fridge magnets to tote bags, all with designs that reinterpret traditional Dunhuang aesthetics.

    The products make for good souvenirs. Among the most popular is a mural-based mystery box, with a miniature mural replica buried in sand from the Mingsha Mountain (or Singing Sand Dunes) scenic site. After they have unearthed the “mural”, buyers can display it as an ornament and keep the sand in a small bottle.

    For those who like to collect seals, the center has a range of mural-inspired stamps and meanwhile, the Dunhuang 1900 cafe is a cozy spot where visitors can take a break while enjoying a coffee.

    “We are constantly striving to turn Dunhuang’s aesthetic heritage, history, and cultural resources into tangible products,” Liu says.

    The center regularly hosts salons, forums, and reading sessions that have attracted upward of 200,000 attendees.

    Its interactive learning space invites visitors to engage in creative activities such as book binding and painting, and also offers a hands-on experience of Dunhuang’s intangible cultural heritage.

    Collaborating with art education companies, the space hosts workshops teaching crafts, including copying murals, book binding, and making clay sculptures.

    The mural copying workshops are available daily. Visitors can sit for an hour or two, and paint using natural mineral pigments on specially made boards that mimic the surface beneath the murals.

    According to Liu Fang, a workshop instructor, the boards replicate the layering of the Mogao Caves walls, with each consisting of five layers. They are made by the instructors.

    “We also have workshops to teach students to make them. We have sessions available for every step of mural art, from making boards and extracting pigments from minerals, to copying murals.”

    Ouyang Xuezi and her 7-year-old son experienced the workshop for the first time last month. Living in Guazhou county in Jiuquan, a two-hour drive away, they often come to Dunhuang for the weekend.

    “I learned about this book center on social media, and was recommended it by friends, so I’ve wanted to come for some time. But my son was too little, and I worried he might disrupt the other readers. Now that he has entered primary school, I thought it was an appropriate time to bring him here,” Ouyang says.

    They initially came for the books, but her son was immediately taken by the painting workshop.

    They spent an hour copying the famous mural of a nine-colored deer. Afterward, they bought a book about Dunhuang, and her son gladly made use of the center’s stamps to mark their journey.

    “I thought I’d need to help him with the painting, but the instructor was very patient, and he did it mostly by himself,” she says.

    “After this visit, I feel that there’s another highlight in Dunhuang. Whenever we have friends visiting from outside Gansu, we always bring them to see the caves and the dunes. Now, I have another place to show them. Especially when the weather’s unpleasant, it’s nice to stay here to read or paint,” she adds.

    In 2024, the company launched Dunhuang Press, another creative venue that incorporates an interactive cultural space, a gift shop, and a cafe. Unlike the book center, which primarily focuses on publications, the new venue offers an immersive experience that highlights printing and stamping techniques.

    Visitors can explore a variety of traditional and modern printmaking techniques, including woodblock printing, digital spray printing, and rubbing. With hundreds of seal designs inspired by Dunhuang’s cultural heritage, visitors can collect stamps as mementos.

    “Our approach has always been to create aesthetic spaces with a cultural and creative mindset. We aim to offer our visitors more content-driven cultural tourism destinations,” Liu Xiaxia says.

    “We aspire to be pioneers in shaping a lifestyle that reflects the essence of Dunhuang: enjoying an afternoon tea while looking out at the Danghe River, and reflecting on life. Ultimately, we aim to provide emotional value to our visitors.”

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: ‘Obscene’ amount of dog faeces spoils popular Bluff walking track

    Source: Department of Conservation

    Date:  15 April 2025

    One of Bluff’s signature tracks, Foveaux Walkway is an easy, well paved track following the Motupōhue/Bluff coastline to a lookout point.

    The track is part of the Te Araroa Trail and is a huge drawcard for both locals and tourists. Hundreds of people visit daily to take in views over Foveaux Strait, Dog Island Lighthouse, Ruapuke Island and Rakiura/Stewart Island.

    DOC acting Operations Manager Murihiku Jono Airey says it’s a special track.

    “It’s visually stunning with native flora and fauna and is rich with Māori and European history. We’re talking about nature and heritage unique to New Zealand, these are things you can’t find anywhere else.

    “Dogs are allowed on the track as long as they are on lead. Dogs are doing what dogs do, but unfortunately their owners are leaving their dogs’ faeces behind in this precious place. It’s a long-term issue, and it’s getting worse.

    “It’s not good enough, track maintenance is now a dangerous, disgusting job for our rangers. They return covered from head to toe in dog excrement thrown about by scrub-cutters. They even wear face shields to protect themselves. You wouldn’t wish it on anyone.”

    Dog faeces contain germs which can harm humans and wildlife and should always be picked up and disposed of responsibly.

    Along with marine mammals kekeno/fur seals and pakake/sea lions, the area is frequented by marine sea birds including tītī, shag, tawaki/Fiordland crested penguin, mottled petrel, kororā/little penguin and numerous forest bird species. In winter tohorā/southern right whales can be spotted in the strait.

    “Unless things improve, we will have to exclude dogs from our track network in Bluff to ensure the health and safety of our rangers, visitors, and wildlife,” says Jono.

    “Dog poo bins aren’t an option for us, they encourage fly tipping and illegal dumping and require a level of maintenance we can’t resource.

    “People tramping in our backcountry carry out human rubbish and waste to protect our natural environments, so we’re sure visitors to the urban Foveaux Walkway can manage the much easier job of cleaning up after their dogs.”

    New signs will soon remind dog walkers of their obligation to remove dog poo from the Foveaux Walkway, and DOC will monitor the situation to inform decisions on future dog access to the track.

    Contact

    For media enquiries contact:

    Email: media@doc.govt.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for April 15, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on April 15, 2025.

    Social media is the new election battleground. Is embracing influencers smart, risky or both?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Susan Grantham, Lecturer in Communication, Griffith University From Abbie Chatfield and Hannah Ferguson to Ozzy Man, influencers have never been more central to an Australian election campaign. Much has been made of the increasingly common site of politicians on TikTok or Instagram reels. Some political groups don’t

    Trump’s tariffs rollercoaster is really about Republican unity
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lester Munson, Non-Resident Fellow, United States Studies Centre, University of Sydney After announcing Liberation Day – stiff “retaliatory” tariffs on every country and penguin-inhabited island in the world – US President Donald Trump rescinded the vast majority of tariffs eight days later when stock and bond markets

    Peters emphasises growing importance of NZ’s Pacific ties with the United States
    By Grace Tinetali-Fiavaai, RNZ Pacific journalist in Hawai’i New Zealand’s Pacific connection with the United States is “more important than ever”, says Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters after rounding up the Hawai’i leg of his Pacific trip. Peters said common strategic interests of the US and New Zealand were underlined while in the state. “Our

    Israeli military reservists court Australian universities amid ‘hypocrisy’ over anti-war protests
    Hundreds of university staff and students in Melbourne and Sydney called on their vice-chancellors to cancel pro-Israel events earlier this month, write Michael West Media’s Wendy Bacon and Yaakov Aharon. SPECIAL REPORT: By Wendy Bacon and Yaakov Aharon While Australia’s universities continue to repress pro-Palestine peace protests, they gave the green light to pro-Israel events

    Why the Mormon church is on an expansion project, with 2 secretive new temples planned for Australia
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Brenton Griffin, Casual Lecturer and Tutor in History, Indigenous Studies, and Politics, Flinders University The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has announced it will build 15 new temples in countries across the world, including one in Liverpool, New South Wales. This follows a similar announcement

    Winter electricity prices are rising – how do we know we’re getting value for money?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Richard Meade, Adjunct Associate Professor, Griffith University, Centre for Applied Energy Economics and Policy Research, Griffith University Shutterstock Winter is coming to New Zealand and Australia, and with it come those inevitably higher power bills from heating our homes. But even without that seasonal spike, household power

    Amid the election promises, what would actually help ‘fix’ the housing crisis? Here’s 5 ideas
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rachel Ong ViforJ, John Curtin Distinguished Professor & ARC Future Fellow, Curtin University Shutterstock As the election campaign rolls on, housing has been, unsurprisingly, a major campaign focus. We’ve seen a series of housing policy announcements from across the political spectrum, including duelling announcements from the major

    New study finds no evidence technology causes ‘digital dementia’ in older people
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nikki-Anne Wilson, Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA), UNSW Sydney RDNE Stock project/Pexels In the 21st century, digital technology has changed many aspects of our lives. Generative artificial intelligence (AI) is the latest newcomer, with chatbots and other AI tools changing how we learn and creating

    Amid the election promises, what would actually help ‘fix’ the housing crisis? Here are 5 ideas
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rachel Ong ViforJ, John Curtin Distinguished Professor & ARC Future Fellow, Curtin University Shutterstock As the election campaign rolls on, housing has been, unsurprisingly, a major campaign focus. We’ve seen a series of housing policy announcements from across the political spectrum, including duelling announcements from the major

    Cutting migrant numbers won’t help housing – the real immigration problems not being tackled this election
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Peter McDonald, Honorary Professor of Demography, Centre for Health Policy, The University of Melbourne Immigration is shaping as one of the most potent policy issues of the election campaign. Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has announced a Coalition government would cut the two major migration programs – permanent

    Focusing on a child’s strengths can transform assessments – and help them thrive after an ADHD or autism diagnosis
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adam Guastella, Professor and Clinical Psychologist, Michael Crouch Chair in Child and Youth Mental Health, University of Sydney Jota Buyinch Photo/Shutterstock When parents are concerned about their child’s development, they often seek an assessment to address concerns and identify any conditions, such as autism, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder

    Australian honeybees are under attack by mites and beetles. Here’s how to keep your backyard hive safe
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Cornelia Sattler, Research Fellow in Ecology & Videographer, Macquarie University Varroa mites on a male bee larva. Theotime Colin Australia’s honeybees are facing an exceptional crisis. The tiny but devastating foreign pest Varroa destructor is steadily spreading across the country. The mite feeds on baby bees (larvae),

    Would looser lending rules help more people buy a house – or just put them at risk?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Andrew Grant, Associate Professor in Finance, University of Sydney doublelee/Shutterstock Big promises on housing were at the centre of both major parties’ announcements at the official federal election campaign launches on the weekend. Among the highlights, Labor pledged to build 100,000 new homes and extend a government-guaranteed

    Why is it so hard for everyone to have a house in Australia?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ehsan Noroozinejad, Senior Researcher, Urban Transformations Research Centre, Western Sydney University Bilalnol/Shutterstock Home ownership in Australia was once regarded as proof of success in life. However, it remains elusive for many people today. Prices have soared beyond wage growth, rents keep rising, and even some well-intentioned government

    Why the Mormon church is on an expansion project, with two secretive new temples planned for Australia
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Brenton Griffin, Casual Lecturer and Tutor in History, Indigenous Studies, and Politics, Flinders University The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has announced it will build 15 new temples in countries across the world, including one in Liverpool, New South Wales. This follows a similar announcement

    Owners are officially no longer responsible for tourism accidents on their land – but they never really were
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Chris Peace, Lecturer in Occupational Health and Safety, Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington EyesWideOpen/Getty Images Newly announced reforms to the Health and Safety at Work Act mean landowners will no longer be responsible for tourism-related injuries on their properties. But it’s not clear this

    New Zealand’s humanity – does it include all of us, or only for some?
    COMMENTARY: By Katrina Mitchell-Kouttab “Wherever Palestinians have control is barbaric.” These were the words from New Zealand’s Chief Human Rights Commissioner Stephen Rainbow. During a meeting with Philippa Yasbek from Jewish Voices for Peace, Dr Rainbow allegedly told her that information from the NZ Security Intelligence Services (NZSIS) threat assessment asserted that Muslims were the

    Leaked ‘working paper’ on New Caledonia’s political future sparks new concerns
    By Patrick Decloitre, RNZ Pacific correspondent French Pacific desk A leaked “working paper” on New Caledonia’s future political status is causing concern on the local stage and has prompted a “clarification” from the French government’s Minister for Overseas Manuel Valls. Details of the document, which was supposed to remain confidential, have been widely circulated online

    Election Diary: Will Peter Dutton help son Harry buy a house?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra Political leaders’ kids are routinely put on display to share the glory or the pain of election night. Earlier, they’re often at campaign launches to “humanise” the candidates. Peter Dutton pulled out all stops with the family for his Sunday

    Big Girls Don’t Cry is a powerful, heart-wrenching, and comical celebration of Indigenous resilience and survival
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Laura Case, Lecturer in Musicology, Sydney Conservatorium of Music, University of Sydney Stephen Wilson Barker/Belvoir With Big Girls Don’t Cry, Gumbaynggirr/Wiradjuri playwright Dalara Williams proves herself to be a formidable talent. Cheryl (Williams), Queenie (Megan Wilding) and Lulu (Stephanie Somerville) are three best friends who share a

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi’s visit to strengthen China-Vietnam bond, regional growth

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese president, is warmly welcomed by Vietnamese President Luong Cuong, other senior officials and local representatives upon his arrival at the Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi, Vietnam, April 14, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Chinese President Xi Jinping is on a state visit to Vietnam from Monday to Tuesday, infusing new vigor into the building of a China-Vietnam community with a shared future that carries strategic significance.

    In a signed article published Monday by the Nhan Dan Newspaper of Vietnam, Xi called for strengthened efforts on all fronts to build such a community.

    This marks Xi’s fourth state visit to Vietnam as general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Chinese president. The visit coincides with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and Vietnam, two socialist neighbors that have forged an enduring bond as “camaraderie plus brotherhood.”

    Xi’s visit will serve as a new milestone in bilateral ties, Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son said. He highlighted its importance in advancing the friendly neighborly relationship, deepening the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership, and building a Vietnam-China community with a shared future.

    Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese president, greets the welcoming crowd upon his arrival in Hanoi, Vietnam, April 14, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    High-level exchange

    As socialist neighbors connected by mountains and rivers, China and Vietnam have formed a community with a shared future that carries strategic significance, Xi said in a written statement upon his arrival.

    In exploring a socialist path suited to their respective national conditions, the two sides have learned from each other, advanced hand in hand, and jointly demonstrated to the world the bright prospects of the socialist system, Xi noted.

    In recent years, the leaders of the CPC and the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) as well as the two countries have maintained frequent high-level exchanges, steering the development of the bilateral ties.

    Xi paid a historic visit to Vietnam in December 2023, during which the two sides announced the building of a China-Vietnam community with a shared future that carries strategic significance, marking a new stage in bilateral relations.

    In August 2024, To Lam, general secretary of the CPV Central Committee, visited China during his first overseas trip after taking office, further enhancing the momentum of China-Vietnam cooperation.

    The frequent mutual visits between the leaders of the two nations reflect a high level of strategic mutual trust, said Dinh Cong Tuan, head of the Chinese language department at Hanoi Foreign Languages and Technology College.

    Xi’s visit, coming at a pivotal moment in the development of China-Vietnam relations, presents an important opportunity for both sides to deepen their strategic dialogue, the professor added.

    Nguyen Vinh Quang, deputy chair of the Vietnam-China Friendship Association, expressed his hope that both countries will seize the opportunity to explore new avenues for future cooperation and to elevate the building of a community with a shared future to a new level.

    Citizens prepare to take a train of the Cat Linh-Ha Dong urban elevated railway in Hanoi, Vietnam, Oct. 9, 2024. The Cat Linh-Ha Dong urban elevated railway was built by the China Railway Sixth Group as an important project of the synergy of the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative with Vietnam’s “Two Corridors and One Economic Circle” plan. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Robust practical cooperation

    Under the strategic guidance of the top leaders of the two parties and two countries, practical cooperation between China and Vietnam has continued to expand across various sectors, providing solid foundations for building a community with a shared future.

    Economic and trade relations between the two sides have reached new heights. China has remained Vietnam’s largest trading partner for more than two decades, with total bilateral trade exceeding 260 billion U.S. dollars in 2024. Chinese enterprises’ direct investment in the Southeast Asian nation surpassed 2.5 billion dollars in the same year, sustaining swift growth.

    Agricultural cooperation continues to bear fruit. High-quality Vietnamese products are increasingly welcomed by Chinese consumers, bringing tangible benefits to Vietnamese farmers and catering to the growing demand in the Chinese market.

    Infrastructure connectivity has also seen significant progress, further facilitating cross-border trade.

    “Railway connectivity and cold-chain transport between China and Vietnam have cut logistics costs, accelerated customs clearance, and ensured fresher, more affordable Vietnamese produce for Chinese consumers,” said Nguyen Ba Hai, an official at the Vietnamese Ministry of Industry and Trade.

    In a major development, Vietnam’s National Assembly approved investment for the Lao Cai-Hanoi-Hai Phong railway project in February, marking a key step in strengthening cross-border exchanges.

    Vietnam plans to begin construction on this line in 2025, with planning for the Mong Cai-Ha Long-Hai Phong and Dong Dang-Hanoi standard-gauge railways expected to be completed by 2026, said Deputy Prime Minister Bui Thanh Son.

    In the signed article, Xi expressed China’s readiness to advance cooperation with Vietnam on the three standard-gauge railways in northern Vietnam.

    Upgrading cross-border railways and ports can not only boost bilateral trade, but also enhance connectivity and resilience across the region, said Do Thi Thu, a senior lecturer at the Banking Academy of Vietnam.

    Meanwhile, China and Vietnam have launched a number of landmark livelihood projects, enhancing the synergy of their development strategies.

    Solar panels, waste-to-energy plants and other bilateral clean energy projects have boosted electricity supply in Vietnam, while the Cat Linh-Ha Dong metro line built by a Chinese company makes public transport in Hanoi more convenient.

    “The benefits brought by Vietnam-China economic and trade cooperation are evident,” said Nguyen Thi Phuong Hoa, deputy director at the Institute of Chinese Studies of the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences.

    The enhanced economic exchanges have also contributed to vibrant cultural exchanges.

    In 2024 alone, Chinese tourists made over 3.7 million visits to Vietnam. The launch of the Detian-Ban Gioc Waterfall Cross-Border Tourism Cooperation Zone has made it possible to visit both countries in a single day. Chinese film and television productions and video games are popular among young Vietnamese, and more people in Vietnam are learning Chinese.

    Noting that this year marks the China-Vietnam Year of People-to-People Exchanges, Chinese Ambassador to Vietnam He Wei said that through a series of activities, the bond between the two peoples will become even closer, and the public support for bilateral relations will become increasingly robust.

    An aerial drone photo shows a view of Guangxi Pingxiang Integrated Free Trade Zone in Pingxiang City, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 1, 2025. With the booming economic and trade cooperation between China and Vietnam, major border ports witness increasing border traffic. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Multilateral collaboration

    As the world undergoes accelerated changes unseen in a century, regional peace and development face mounting challenges, making solidarity and cooperation more crucial than ever.

    China and Vietnam, both vocal advocates of multilateralism, have actively engaged in regional and international cooperation to tackle common challenges and promote shared prosperity.

    The two nations play active roles within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations cooperative framework, contributing to the bloc’s efforts to foster economic integration and regional stability.

    Both nations are signatories to the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), underscoring their dedication to an open, rules-based trading system.

    Noting that the trade war and tariff war will produce no winner, and protectionism will lead nowhere, Xi said in the signed article that “our two countries should resolutely safeguard the multilateral trading system, stable global industrial and supply chains, and open and cooperative international environment.”

    China and Vietnam can work together to uphold the global order based on international law, including an international trade system based on established international norms, said Tran Khanh, former editor-in-chief of the Journal of Southeast Asian Studies at the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences.

    As RCEP members, the two countries can use this platform to promote deeper regional integration and contribute to a stable trading system, Do Thi Thu said, adding that the two neighboring countries can also work together to make greater contributions to regional stability.

    Xi’s visit underscores the commitment of both Vietnam and China to peaceful development and regional stability, said Bui Minh Long, managing editor of the Vietnamese daily newspaper Tien Phong. “I believe that closer Vietnam-China relations will become a stabilizing force in Southeast Asia,” Bui said.

    Amid a complex and volatile international landscape, Ambassador He emphasized that China and Vietnam should deepen their comprehensive strategic cooperation and inject more certainty and stability into the region. This, he said, is not only an essential aspect of building a China-Vietnam community with a shared future that carries strategic significance, but also a necessary step to promote regional cooperation and development.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi calls for deepening building of China-Vietnam community with shared future

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Chinese president, on Monday called for deepening the building of a China-Vietnam community with a shared future.

    Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese president, holds talks with To Lam, general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee, at the CPV Central Committee headquarters in Hanoi, Vietnam, April 14, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Xueren)

    Xi made the remarks when meeting with General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee To Lam during his state visit to Vietnam.

    Xi pointed out that he was very pleased to pay a state visit to Vietnam and realize the first round of mutual visits with General Secretary To Lam.

    This year marks the 95th anniversary of the founding of the CPV, the 80th anniversary of the founding of Vietnam and the 50th anniversary of the liberation of the South, he said, extending warm congratulations to Vietnam on behalf of the CPC and the Chinese government.

    China will, as always, support Vietnam in taking a socialist path that suits its national conditions, successfully holding the 14th National Congress of the CPV in 2026, and its steadfast pursuit of realizing the two goals set for the centenary of the party and the country.

    This year marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Vietnam, as well as the China-Vietnam Year of People-to-People Exchanges, said Xi, stressing that over the past 75 years, regardless of changes in the international landscape, China and Vietnam have supported each other in the struggle for national independence and liberation, advanced side by side in the cause of socialist development, and forged ahead in their respective modernization endeavors, setting an example of solidarity and cooperation between socialist countries.

    Facing the changing and turbulent world, China and Vietnam have stayed committed to peaceful development and deepened their friendly cooperation, bringing much-needed stability and certainty to the world, Xi said.

    Standing at a new historical starting point, the two sides should build on past achievements, forge ahead together and carry forward the profound traditional friendship featuring “camaraderie plus brotherhood,” said Xi.

    Guided by the overall goals of achieving higher political mutual trust, more solid security cooperation, deeper practical cooperation, stronger public support, closer multilateral coordination and better management and resolution of differences, the two countries should work to advance their comprehensive strategic cooperation with high quality, ensure steady and sustained progress in building a China-Vietnam community with a shared future, and contribute even more to the building of a community with a shared future for mankind, Xi said.

    Building the China-Vietnam community with a shared future carries great global significance, Xi said, noting that as the two countries jointly pursue peaceful development, their combined population of over 1.5 billion is jointly advancing toward modernization, which will contribute to regional and global peace and stability while promoting common development.

    Both countries are committed to opening up and have played a constructive role in maintaining the stability and smooth operation of regional industrial and supply chains, as well as contributing to the advancement of economic globalization, Xi said.

    A small boat with a lone sail cannot withstand rough seas, Xi said, noting that only by working together in the same boat can they ensure stability and long-term progress.

    He noted that both China and Vietnam are beneficiaries of economic globalization, and the two sides should strengthen strategic resolve, jointly oppose unilateralism and bullying practices, and work together to uphold the global free trade system and maintain the stability of industrial and supply chains.

    Xi proposed six measures to deepen the building of the China-Vietnam community with a shared future.

    First, enhance strategic mutual trust at a higher level.

    Leaders of the two parties and countries should communicate with each other as relatives, Xi said, noting the two sides should give full play to the role of channels including inter-party, legislative bodies and political consultative organizations, deepen the exchange of experience in governance, and improve the leadership of the two parties in promoting national modernization.

    Second, build a stronger security barrier.

    The two sides should set the “3+3” strategic dialogue on diplomacy, defense and public security between the two countries at the ministerial level to enhance strategic coordination.

    It is necessary to give full play to the role of defense and law enforcement security cooperation mechanisms, resolutely tackle online gambling, telecom fraud and other cross-border crimes, strengthen bilateral and multilateral law enforcement and judicial cooperation, especially within the framework of the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation, so as to safeguard people’s lives and property and uphold regional peace and stability.

    Third, expand higher quality mutually beneficial cooperation.

    Seize the major opportunities of China’s new quality productive forces and Vietnam’s new productive forces to accelerate the formation of practical cooperation between the two countries. Realize the comprehensive connection of standard-gauge railways, highways, and smart ports at an early date. Promote high-tech cooperation such as artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things. China’s mega market is always open to Vietnam, and the country welcomes more high-quality Vietnamese products. China encourages its companies to invest in Vietnam and hopes that Vietnam will create a more fair and friendly business environment.

    Fourth, tighten the bonds of people-to-people ties.

    China and Vietnam should take the China-Vietnam Year of People-to-People Exchanges as an opportunity and organize more people-oriented exchange activities, and enhance cooperation in tourism, culture, media, public health and other fields.

    The two sides should continue to explore resources of revolutionary heritage and promote stories of friendship. In the next three years, China will invite Vietnamese youth to China for “Red Study Tours,” which will help the younger generation of both countries better understand the hard-won nature of the socialist countries and the great value of China-Vietnam good-neighborliness and friendly cooperation, and will cultivate greater vitality for the development of bilateral relations and the respective national development endeavors.

    Fifth, conduct closer multilateral coordination.

    China and Vietnam should jointly uphold the outcomes of World War II, firmly safeguard the international system with the United Nations at its core and the international order based on international law, promote a more equal and orderly multi-polar world and an economic globalization that is more inclusive and beneficial for all, and enhance cooperation under the frameworks of the three major global initiatives.

    China will stay committed to the principles of amity, sincerity, mutual benefit and inclusiveness, and to the policy of pursuing friendship and partnership with its neighbors. It will deepen friendly cooperation with neighboring countries so that the fruits of Chinese modernization can better benefit the region.

    Sixth, achieve more positive maritime interaction.

    The two countries should earnestly implement the consensus reached by leaders of the two countries, properly manage maritime issues, expand maritime cooperation, demonstrate resolve in launching joint development, and work toward the early conclusion of a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea.

    For his part, To Lam extended a warm welcome to Xi on his state visit to Vietnam, which took place on the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. He said that Xi is not only an outstanding leader of the Chinese people but also a great friend of the Vietnamese people.

    Xi’s choice to make Vietnam his first overseas destination this year fully reflects the importance he attaches to China-Vietnam relations and his support for Vietnam, the Vietnamese leader said. This visit will mark a new milestone in the history of friendly exchanges between the two parties and countries, further advancing the building of a China-Vietnam community with a shared future that carries strategic significance, he added.

    Under Xi’s strong leadership, To Lam noted, China has achieved historic accomplishments in advancing socialism with Chinese characteristics, made comprehensive progress in its path to modernization, and witnessed rapid development of new quality productive forces. With China’s international stature on the rise, Vietnam extends its congratulations and expresses gratitude for China’s long-standing support and assistance, he said.

    Emphasizing that both Vietnam and China are socialist countries under the leadership of a communist party, To Lam said that developing relations with China is an objective requirement, a strategic choice, and a top priority for Vietnam. Vietnam firmly adheres to the one-China policy, supports China’s efforts toward national reunification, and resolutely opposes any separatist actions aimed at “Taiwan independence,” he said.

    Advancing Vietnam-China relations, To Lam noted, is in the fundamental interest of both peoples and conforms with the trend of the times. Vietnam looks forward to strengthening high-level exchanges between the two parties and countries, enhancing exchanges on governance experience, deepening strategic security cooperation, and continually consolidating political mutual trust; further elevating bilateral cooperation by creating new highlights in areas such as trade, science and technology, infrastructure and environmental protection; and promoting people-to-people exchanges, encouraging local and youth interactions, and enhancing tourism cooperation to nurture closer bonds between the peoples, he said.

    Vietnam supports the vision of a community with a shared future for mankind and the three major global initiatives proposed by Xi, To Lam said. Vietnam lauds the vision set forth during the CPC’s central conference on work related to neighboring countries, which envisions building a peaceful, safe and secure, prosperous, beautiful and amicable home with neighboring countries and insists on fostering friendly, mutually beneficial and prosperous relationships, he said.

    Vietnam is ready to strengthen coordination and cooperation with China, uphold multilateralism and the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, safeguard international trade rules, abide by the agreements signed by both sides, and jointly make greater contributions to world peace and human progress, To Lam said, adding that Vietnam is also willing to properly address maritime differences with China to ensure maritime stability.

    Before the talks, To Lam invited Xi to a small-group chat over tea. The two general secretaries exchanged views on party building and national governance. Xi stressed that party building is crucial to the destiny of the party and the country, and that the party’s work style bears on whether it can win public support. The CPC Central Committee has decided to carry out an in-depth campaign throughout the party this year to learn and implement the spirit of the eight-point decision on improving work conduct. This is intended to secure new achievements in work style transformation to further support comprehensive reform and advance modernization. Both general secretaries agreed to strengthen exchanges and mutual learning, and pursue progress in socialist development.

    After the talks, the two leaders witnessed the display of 45 bilateral cooperation documents signed by China and Vietnam. These documents cover areas including connectivity, artificial intelligence, customs inspection and quarantine, agricultural trade, culture and sports, public welfare, human resource development, media, and more.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: Macao SAR chief executive delivers 1st policy address

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Chief Executive of China’s Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) Sam Hou Fai delivered the 2025 fiscal year policy address on Monday, outlining the overall policy direction, enhancing diversification, improving people’s livelihood, strengthening governance, and integrating into national development.
    Sam delivered his first policy address at the Legislative Assembly. He stated that the new SAR government will work closely with all sectors of society and the public to pursue innovative development and usher in a new chapter for Macao.
    He noted strengthening coordination mechanisms as a key initiative in the government’s effort to reform administration and improve governance capacity, elaborating that the government has established six leadership groups and working groups to coordinate the advancement of major cross-sectoral affairs.
    Sam also pointed out that Hengqin is key to unlocking Macao’s appropriate economic diversification, and the SAR government regards the high-quality achievement of the second-stage development goals of the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin as a significant task.
    In his address, Sam set forth the government’s primary expectations for 2025: to consolidate economic recovery, improve employment conditions, deepen administrative reform, and pursue deeper integration into national development.
    He said that infrastructure connectivity within the Greater Bay Area will be further enhanced, and Macao will further enrich its role as a platform between China and Portuguese-speaking countries.
    Sam said the SAR government will move forward with several major infrastructure projects, including an international education (university) city, the Macao international integrated tourism and cultural zone, an international aviation hub along the Pearl River, and a science and technology R&D industrial park. 

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Regional Infrastructure Summit for Chathams

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Regional Development Minister Shane Jones will take one of the largest delegations in recent years to the Chatham Islands tomorrow for his next regional summit.
    “It is important, given the relative isolation of the islands, to take the summit to the people who live there. The Chathams has an infrastructure deficit and I am going there in person to share with the locals the criteria of the Regional Infrastructure Fund and how they can apply for project funding,” Mr Jones says.
    “I expect a big turnout from the locals for this summit. Previously, the Crown funded projects through the Provincial Growth Fund. I’m keen to see how they have contributed to the local economy. Boosting resilience is critical.
    “ I am taking a large delegation including government ministers and MPs, experts in a range of fields, business leaders and officials. Energy, fishing, tourism and alternative land use are all areas which could benefit from the connections made at the summit tomorrow and I hope to hear some ambitious plans from the islanders.”
    Mr Jones will also be accompanied by the Rātana Band, a rare visit, and an acknowledgement of the historical ties between the Rātana Church and the Chathams.
    The Coalition Government’s drive for regional economic growth through the $1.2 billion Regional Infrastructure Fund is on track with more than $580 million in funding so far committed to key infrastructure projects.
    “To date, the Regional Infrastructure Fund has received more than 260 applications. Approved investments align with the Government’s focus areas of enabling growth and water storage, supporting energy generation and Māori economic development, and increasing resilience,” Mr Jones says.
    Mr Jones has so far held 11 summits around the country, with more than 1300 stakeholders attending. 
    Summits will be held for Wairarapa and Kāpiti on 9 May, and Otago on 16 May.
    The Regional Infrastructure Fund is a capital fund with the primary purpose of accelerating infrastructure projects, particularly with a focus on water storage, energy, Māori economic development, growth, and resilience.
    Committed funding includes approved funding and funding ring-fenced for specific purposes but is yet to be approved for release.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi calls for deepening building of China-Vietnam community with a shared future

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

    Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese president, holds talks with To Lam, general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee, at the CPV Central Committee headquarters in Hanoi, Vietnam, April 14, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    HANOI, April 14 — Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Chinese president, on Monday called for deepening the building of a China-Vietnam community with a shared future.

    Xi made the remarks when meeting with General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee To Lam during his state visit to Vietnam.

    Xi pointed out that he was very pleased to pay a state visit to Vietnam and realize the first round of mutual visits with General Secretary To Lam.

    This year marks the 95th anniversary of the founding of the CPV, the 80th anniversary of the founding of Vietnam and the 50th anniversary of the liberation of the South, he said, extending warm congratulations to Vietnam on behalf of the CPC and the Chinese government.

    China will, as always, support Vietnam in taking a socialist path that suits its national conditions, successfully holding the 14th National Congress of the CPV in 2026, and its steadfast pursuit of realizing the two goals set for the centenary of the party and the country.

    This year marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Vietnam, as well as the China-Vietnam Year of People-to-People Exchanges, said Xi, stressing that over the past 75 years, regardless of changes in the international landscape, China and Vietnam have supported each other in the struggle for national independence and liberation, advanced side by side in the cause of socialist development, and forged ahead in their respective modernization endeavors, setting an example of solidarity and cooperation between socialist countries.

    Facing the changing and turbulent world, China and Vietnam have stayed committed to peaceful development and deepened their friendly cooperation, bringing much-needed stability and certainty to the world, Xi said.

    Standing at a new historical starting point, the two sides should build on past achievements, forge ahead together and carry forward the profound traditional friendship featuring “camaraderie plus brotherhood,” said Xi.

    Guided by the overall goals of achieving higher political mutual trust, more solid security cooperation, deeper practical cooperation, stronger public support, closer multilateral coordination and better management and resolution of differences, the two countries should work to advance their comprehensive strategic cooperation with high quality, ensure steady and sustained progress in building a China-Vietnam community with a shared future, and contribute even more to the building of a community with a shared future for mankind, Xi said.

    Building the China-Vietnam community with a shared future carries great global significance, Xi said, noting that as the two countries jointly pursue peaceful development, their combined population of over 1.5 billion is jointly advancing toward modernization, which will contribute to regional and global peace and stability while promoting common development.

    Both countries are committed to opening up and have played a constructive role in maintaining the stability and smooth operation of regional industrial and supply chains, as well as contributing to the advancement of economic globalization, Xi said.

    A small boat with a lone sail cannot withstand rough seas, Xi said, noting that only by working together in the same boat can they ensure stability and long-term progress.

    He noted that both China and Vietnam are beneficiaries of economic globalization, and the two sides should strengthen strategic resolve, jointly oppose unilateralism and bullying practices, and work together to uphold the global free trade system and maintain the stability of industrial and supply chains.

    Xi proposed six measures to deepen the building of the China-Vietnam community with a shared future.

    First, enhance strategic mutual trust at a higher level.

    Leaders of the two parties and countries should communicate with each other as relatives, Xi said, noting the two sides should give full play to the role of channels including inter-party, legislative bodies and political consultative organizations, deepen the exchange of experience in governance, and improve the leadership of the two parties in promoting national modernization.

    Second, build a stronger security barrier.

    The two sides should set the “3+3” strategic dialogue on diplomacy, defense and public security between the two countries at the ministerial level to enhance strategic coordination.

    It is necessary to give full play to the role of defense and law enforcement security cooperation mechanisms, resolutely tackle online gambling, telecom fraud and other cross-border crimes, strengthen bilateral and multilateral law enforcement and judicial cooperation, especially within the framework of the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation, so as to safeguard people’s lives and property and uphold regional peace and stability.

    Third, expand higher quality mutually beneficial cooperation.

    Seize the major opportunities of China’s new quality productive forces and Vietnam’s new productive forces to accelerate the formation of practical cooperation between the two countries. Realize the comprehensive connection of standard-gauge railways, highways, and smart ports at an early date. Promote high-tech cooperation such as artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things. China’s mega market is always open to Vietnam, and the country welcomes more high-quality Vietnamese products. China encourages its companies to invest in Vietnam and hopes that Vietnam will create a more fair and friendly business environment.

    Fourth, tighten the bonds of people-to-people ties.

    China and Vietnam should take the China-Vietnam Year of People-to-People Exchanges as an opportunity and organize more people-oriented exchange activities, and enhance cooperation in tourism, culture, media, public health and other fields.

    The two sides should continue to explore resources of revolutionary heritage and promote stories of friendship. In the next three years, China will invite Vietnamese youth to China for “Red Study Tours,” which will help the younger generation of both countries better understand the hard-won nature of the socialist countries and the great value of China-Vietnam good-neighborliness and friendly cooperation, and will cultivate greater vitality for the development of bilateral relations and the respective national development endeavors.

    Fifth, conduct closer multilateral coordination.

    China and Vietnam should jointly uphold the outcomes of World War II, firmly safeguard the international system with the United Nations at its core and the international order based on international law, promote a more equal and orderly multi-polar world and an economic globalization that is more inclusive and beneficial for all, and enhance cooperation under the frameworks of the three major global initiatives.

    China will stay committed to the principles of amity, sincerity, mutual benefit and inclusiveness, and to the policy of pursuing friendship and partnership with its neighbors. It will deepen friendly cooperation with neighboring countries so that the fruits of Chinese modernization can better benefit the region.

    Sixth, achieve more positive maritime interaction.

    The two countries should earnestly implement the consensus reached by leaders of the two countries, properly manage maritime issues, expand maritime cooperation, demonstrate resolve in launching joint development, and work toward the early conclusion of a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea.

    For his part, To Lam extended a warm welcome to Xi on his state visit to Vietnam, which took place on the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. He said that Xi is not only an outstanding leader of the Chinese people but also a great friend of the Vietnamese people.

    Xi’s choice to make Vietnam his first overseas destination this year fully reflects the importance he attaches to China-Vietnam relations and his support for Vietnam, the Vietnamese leader said. This visit will mark a new milestone in the history of friendly exchanges between the two parties and countries, further advancing the building of a China-Vietnam community with a shared future that carries strategic significance, he added.

    Under Xi’s strong leadership, To Lam noted, China has achieved historic accomplishments in advancing socialism with Chinese characteristics, made comprehensive progress in its path to modernization, and witnessed rapid development of new quality productive forces. With China’s international stature on the rise, Vietnam extends its congratulations and expresses gratitude for China’s long-standing support and assistance, he said.

    Emphasizing that both Vietnam and China are socialist countries under the leadership of a communist party, To Lam said that developing relations with China is an objective requirement, a strategic choice, and a top priority for Vietnam. Vietnam firmly adheres to the one-China policy, supports China’s efforts toward national reunification, and resolutely opposes any separatist actions aimed at “Taiwan independence,” he said.

    Advancing Vietnam-China relations, To Lam noted, is in the fundamental interest of both peoples and conforms with the trend of the times. Vietnam looks forward to strengthening high-level exchanges between the two parties and countries, enhancing exchanges on governance experience, deepening strategic security cooperation, and continually consolidating political mutual trust; further elevating bilateral cooperation by creating new highlights in areas such as trade, science and technology, infrastructure and environmental protection; and promoting people-to-people exchanges, encouraging local and youth interactions, and enhancing tourism cooperation to nurture closer bonds between the peoples, he said.

    Vietnam supports the vision of a community with a shared future for mankind and the three major global initiatives proposed by Xi, To Lam said. Vietnam lauds the vision set forth during the CPC’s central conference on work related to neighboring countries, which envisions building a peaceful, safe and secure, prosperous, beautiful and amicable home with neighboring countries and insists on fostering friendly, mutually beneficial and prosperous relationships, he said.

    Vietnam is ready to strengthen coordination and cooperation with China, uphold multilateralism and the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, safeguard international trade rules, abide by the agreements signed by both sides, and jointly make greater contributions to world peace and human progress, To Lam said, adding that Vietnam is also willing to properly address maritime differences with China to ensure maritime stability.

    Before the talks, To Lam invited Xi to a small-group chat over tea. The two general secretaries exchanged views on party building and national governance. Xi stressed that party building is crucial to the destiny of the party and the country, and that the party’s work style bears on whether it can win public support. The CPC Central Committee has decided to carry out an in-depth campaign throughout the party this year to learn and implement the spirit of the eight-point decision on improving work conduct. This is intended to secure new achievements in work style transformation to further support comprehensive reform and advance modernization. Both general secretaries agreed to strengthen exchanges and mutual learning, and pursue progress in socialist development.

    After the talks, the two leaders witnessed the display of 45 bilateral cooperation documents signed by China and Vietnam. These documents cover areas including connectivity, artificial intelligence, customs inspection and quarantine, agricultural trade, culture and sports, public welfare, human resource development, media, and more.

    Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese president, holds talks with To Lam, general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee, at the CPV Central Committee headquarters in Hanoi, Vietnam, April 14, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese president, holds talks with To Lam, general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee, at the CPV Central Committee headquarters in Hanoi, Vietnam, April 14, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    To Lam, general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee, invites Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese president, to a small chat over tea before their talks at the CPV Central Committee headquarters in Hanoi, Vietnam, April 14, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese president, and To Lam, general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee, witness the display of 45 bilateral cooperation documents signed by the two sides after their talks in Hanoi, Vietnam, April 14, 2025. Xi held talks with To Lam at the CPV Central Committee headquarters on Monday. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI USA: As Tariffs are Hurting Vermont’s Outdoor and Tourism Economy, Welch Convenes Discussion on Impact of Trump’s Trade War in Stowe 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    More than 60 business and nonprofit leaders attended event 
    STOWE, VT – Today, U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), a member of the Senate Finance Committee, hosted a conversation at The Alchemist in Stowe on the impact of President Trump’s trade war on Vermont’s outdoor and tourism economy. Senator Welch’s panel included representatives from The Alchemist, the Old Stagecoach Inn, Mad River Distillers, Burton, J Skis, Waterbury Sports & Power Play Sports, and Hen of the Wood.   
    “The point of these roundtables is to mobilize as much information as I can, so that when I’m talking about these tariffs with my colleagues, it’s very concrete: How does it affect Vermont farmers? How does it affect our craft brewers? How does it affect our manufacturers and our retail operations that are so essential?” said Senator Welch during the event. “And then, how does it affect our relationships with long-term allies who are on our side when it comes to the goal of creating good local jobs, respecting the environment, and doing things in a way that provides mutual benefit? So, I want to thank everybody for being here today—this is a deadly serious topic. The Trump Administration, in my view, has run amok on this, and my goal is to stop it.” 
    Panelists shared firsthand the impacts of President Trump’s trade war with Canada and global allies, and discussed how Trump’s rhetoric against Canada has negatively impacted business in Vermont. Frustrations were shared about the uncertainty of the tariffs, rising costs, shifting supply and manufacturing needs, and ways the Trump Administration’s policies are hurting the services and programs Vermonters rely on.  
    After the panel shared their experiences, the floor was opened to business and nonprofit leaders from across the Vermont, who discussed the long-term implications of tariffs when selling and marketing outside of the United States, the impact of Trump’s funding freezes, and how this will raise prices for working Vermonters. 
    View photos from the event below:

    Senator Welch has been outspoken in opposing President Trump’s destructive trade war. Last month, Senator Welch convened Vermont and Canadian business leaders for a roundtable near the U.S.-Canada border to discuss President Trump’s Trade War and how the Trump Administration’s reckless tariffs are hurting workers, families, and farmers. In January and February, Senator Welch convened Vermont businesses for roundtables to hear from Vermont businesses and state and local leaders about how the President’s actions reigniting a trade war have impacted their lives and livelihoods. 
    Senator Welch joined bipartisan colleagues in releasing a resolution to repeal Donald Trump’s sweeping, global tariffs. Senator Welch has also supported legislation pushing back against Trump’s tariffs, including: 

    The Trade Review Act, bipartisan legislation to reaffirm Congress’ key role in setting and approving U.S. trade policy and reestablish limits on the President’s ability to impose unilateral tariffs without the approval of Congress. 

    The Tariff Transparency Act of 2025, legislation to require the United States International Trade Commission to conduct an investigation and submit a report on the impact on businesses in the United States of duties, and the threat of duties, on imports from Mexico and Canada. 

    A Joint Resolution of Disapproval terminating national emergency related to Canadian energy tariffs, passed by the Senate last week on a bipartisan basis. 

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-Evening Report: Owners are officially no longer responsible for tourism accidents on their land – but they never really were

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Chris Peace, Lecturer in Occupational Health and Safety, Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington

    EyesWideOpen/Getty Images

    Newly announced reforms to the Health and Safety at Work Act mean landowners will no longer be responsible for tourism-related injuries on their properties. But it’s not clear this has ever really been a problem.

    Workplace Safety Minister Brooke van Velden says there was an “inadvertent climate of fear” affecting councils, farmers and landowners who allowed access to their land for hunting, fishing, mountain biking and horse trekking. The fear was that they would be held responsible if someone was hurt or killed on their land.

    The reforms targeting landowners are part of wider changes to the Health and Safety at Work Act, which was passed in 2015. Under section 37 of the act, a person who controls a workplace is responsible for ensuring that

    the workplace, the means of entering and exiting the workplace, and anything arising from the workplace are without risks to the health and safety of any person.

    But we found just one instance of landowners being taken to court for adventure activities going wrong on their properties. This was the case against Whakaari Management Ltd, the owners of Whakaari/White Island after the 2019 eruption that claimed 22 lives and injured 25 others.

    In 2024, Whakaari Management was found guilty of failing to protect visitors to the island, but that decision was overturned in February this year.

    Adventure activities in New Zealand have been relatively safe, with just over 50 deaths in 35 years.
    Judith Lienert/Shutterstock

    Responsibilities under the law

    Under the current rules, responsibility for something going wrong rests with the “person conducting a business or undertaking”.

    A farmer, for example, is conducting business because they own or have control of their land. This does not apply if they are renting out the land but not involved in the activity’s management or control.

    In the Whakaari Management Ltd appeal the judge wrote:

    To be caught by [section] 37, a [a person conducting a business or undertaking] must in fact be exercising active control or management of the workplace in a practical sense. Owning it is not enough. Making money from it is not enough. Merely being able to manage or control a workplace, but not doing so, is not enough.

    Active control might include an agreement between the landowner and the activity operator to monitor conditions.

    While the Whakaari case is the only one we found where a landowner has been prosecuted under the current rules, there have been a number of court cases involving adventure activity companies.

    The key difference between successful and unsuccessful cases seems to be whether the business owners had the ability to influence or change what went wrong.

    For example, in cases where customers of diving businesses drowned, the courts have decided the businesses did not have control of the workplace, including the sea, a lake or river.

    In one case the judge wrote the business

    does not and cannot control flow or conditions nor can it control who uses or goes through the rapid […] It cannot give directions in relation to it, nor exercise any authority over it.

    A business owner operating a kayaking business did have control of the operational conditions and should have had a safe system of work, including checking the weather forecast.

    Similar failings were found after a school trip resulted in drownings and after the poor condition of tour buses and uncontrolled driving during a sand-surfing trip resulted in deaths.

    Making adventure activities relatively safe

    Even under the Adventure Activities Regulations – industry specific rule passed in 2010 and updated since – the responsibility for safety in the tourism industry fell on tourism operators, not landowners.

    And, from a safety perspective, the rules have been relatively successful. In the past 35 years, there have been about 52 deaths in adventure activities due to natural hazards (including the Whakaari/White Island tragedy). During the same period more than 30,000 workers died at or because of work.

    But this relative safety in adventure activities has come at a cost for small businesses. Under the 2010 regulations, the average cost of mandatory audits has been around NZ$5,000 – a cost borne by the small adventure activity businesses.

    If the government wants to further improve the safety of the outdoor tourism industry, then it needs to focus on making it easier and cheaper for businesses to comply with the regulations, rather than focusing on protecting landowners from a risk they never really faced.

    Danaë Anderson receives funding from the New Zealand Industrial Relations Trust

    Joanne Crawford receives funding from the Health Research Council and the New Zealand Industrial Relations Trust

    Chris Peace 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. Owners are officially no longer responsible for tourism accidents on their land – but they never really were – https://theconversation.com/owners-are-officially-no-longer-responsible-for-tourism-accidents-on-their-land-but-they-never-really-were-253622

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to study looking at the effect of global warming on persistence and intensity of marine heatwaves

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A study published in PNAS looks at global warming and the intensity of marine heatwaves. 

    Dr Caroline Rowland, Scientific Strategic Head for Ocean Cryosphere and Climate, Met Office, said:

    “We should all care about marine heatwaves because societies around the world depend on the ocean; changes to ocean temperatures can have wide-ranging impacts on ecosystems and fisheries. There is growing evidence that the intensity and frequency of marine heatwaves – driven by climate change – can contribute to impactful weather events both around the UK and globally with obvious impacts for human health.

    “The record-breaking UK land temperatures in June 2023 were amplified by an unprecedented marine heatwave in UK waters that occurred simultaneously with the land heatwave. The increasing intensity and frequency of marine heatwaves due to climate change can increase the severity of storms – including tropical cyclones – and heatwaves on land.

    What are the key points readers should take from the study?

    “Anthropogenic climate change is the major cause of observed increases in intensity, frequency and duration of marine heatwaves (MHW) both globally and regionally

    “Natural year-to-year climate variability does contribute to extreme Marine temperatures, however, MHW are longer and more intense due to the long-term warming of the seas due to anthropogenic climate change.

    “MHWs are shown to increase in length in the tropics and in intensity and length in the mid-latitudes. The North and Baltic Seas have seen a larger increase relative to other regions (likely because of their shallow nature and their lower salinity: their excess heat is less likely exported to the deeper ocean).

    “The results of this paper are largely consistent with the assessment of MHWs in IPCC AR6 WG1 Box 9.2.

    Why are marine heatwaves important for people – why should they care?

    “The public should care about Marine Heatwaves because humans depend on the ocean; changes to ocean temperatures can have wide ranging impacts including to ecosystems and fisheries. There is growing evidence that MHWs contribute to weather events both around the UK and globally which can have significant impacts to human and animal health. Record-breaking UK land temperatures in June 2023 were amplified by an unprecedented Marine Heatwave in UK waters that occurred simultaneously with the land heatwave [1]. The intensity of cyclones in tropical regions has also been shown to be magnified by MHW. The increasing intensity and frequency of MHW due to climate change has the potential to increase the severity of storms and heatwaves on land.

    Are there any important caveats that we should be aware of?

    “Although we know that there are wide ranging impacts to ecosystems and fisheries from global MHW, there are large gaps in our knowledge of MHW impacts to ecosystems in UK waters, particularly coastal regions.

     “This paper also further strengthens the need for evidence to quantify the role of anthropogenic climate change on the frequency and duration of MHWs.”

    1- https://www.nature.com/articles/s43247-024-01413-8

     

    Dr Jeffrey Kargel, Senior Scientists, Planetary Science Institute, said:

    “The work by Marta Marcos and colleagues is richly informative about global warming’s oceanic influences. The authors computed sea surface temperatures under the observed atmospheric conditions with global warming included, and then re-doing the sea surface computation by removing the long-term influence of the warming atmosphere and just leaving in the hot spells and cold spells.

    “Interestingly, the authors found that most–but not all–of the observed intensity of extreme hot ocean surface episodes, and about half of the number of days of extreme ocean warmth are explained directly by global warming. This relationship is readily understood. However, when I read this, I zeroed in on the fact that there have been more days and greater intensities of extreme ocean surface warmth than global warming alone accounts for. I suspect that the excess over predictions could be related to the controversial but much-reported slow-down of the jet streams and the frequent “stuck” jet streams. Instead of continuing on their usual eastward migration, jet streams and associated high- and low-pressure systems have frequently become “stuck” in place, leaving parts of the ocean surface (land surface as well) subjected to blistering hot conditions. This is a likely indirect influence of global warming. Global climate change is not only about warming, but about the disruption of all parts of the climate system, including jet streams. That influence, in turn, affects the sea surface temperature in extreme ways, which then affects hurricanes and weather systems that extend into continental interiors.   

    “The weakening and stagnating jet streams in relationship to global warming and melting sea ice was first discovered and explained by Jennifer Francis. If her model is correct, as seems increasingly likely as observations accrue, then combined with this new paper by Marcos and colleagues, it could suggest that the stuck jet streams may impose a multiplier effect on global warming’s influence on sea surface temperatures and extreme weather on land, too.”

    Dr Zoe Jacobs, Ocean and Climate Modeler, UK National Oceanography Centre, said:

    What are the key points readers should take from the study?

    “Human-induced global warming is responsible for nearly half of global marine heatwave (MHW) events since 1940.

    “Human-induced global warming has caused a 3-fold increase in the number of days per year experiencing MHW conditions. Globally, this means that, on average, we are experiencing 34 extra MHW days per year in recent years compared with the early period. This reaches 80 additional MHW days per year in some regions, including the equatorial Western Pacific and Atlantic, and parts of the tropical Indian Ocean.

    “It has also led to a global mean increase in MHW maximum intensity of 1oC, with the greatest increases observed outside the tropics.

    “Overall, their work reveals the dominant contribution of anthropogenic forcing to MHW increases, especially since the year 2000.

    “It is important to note that there will be high variability between individual events. For example, the MHW in the Tasman Sea in 2015-16 is found to almost entirely be due to global warming, whereas the Pacific Blob (2014-15) is found to be due to a mixture of global warming and natural climate variability.

    Why are marine heatwaves important for people – frankly, why should they care?

    “Wide ranging impacts have been documented for marine heatwave events worldwide. They have decimated coral reefs, seagrass meadows and kelp forests as well as fisheries and seabird colonies and even impacted larger species like seals and whales.

    “Because of this they pose significant risks to society, with some individual events causing millions of dollars of losses due to impacts on the fishing, aquaculture, and tourism industries. They have also been found to exacerbate heatwaves on land and have amplified extreme weather like hurricanes and storms.”

    Are there any important caveats that we should be aware of?

    “Using sea surface temperature (SST) data before the satellite record (pre-1980s) will have considerable uncertainties. Using a. 0.25o grid will have led to a lot of interpolation between actual observations due to incomplete spatial coverage.

    “The study focuses on summer MHW events only but MHWs can occur year-round, with seasonal differences in persistence and intensity likely.”

    Global warming drives a threefold increase in persistence and 1 ◦C rise in intensity of marine heatwaves’ by Marcos et al. was published in PNAS at 20:00 UK time on Monday 14th April 2025. 

    DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2413505122

    Declared interests

    Dr Jeffrey Kargel “I have no conflicts of interest related to this article or my commentary.”

    For all other experts, no reply to our request for DOIs was received.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CHP reminds public to be vigilant in preventing norovirus when travelling outside Hong Kong

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    CHP reminds public to be vigilant in preventing norovirus when travelling outside Hong Kong 
         “According to the Japanese authorities, 72 people developed food poisoning symptoms including diarrhoea, fever and vomiting after consuming lunch boxes provided by a catering service in the southern Tochigi on April 9, and one of them died with the cause of death yet to be ascertained. Investigations by the authorities concerned found that the stool samples collected from the affected patients and the staff of the catering service were tested positive for norovirus. As Japan is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the vicinity of Hong Kong, and the activity of norovirus in Japan this year is higher than that in the same period in the past five years, I would like to appeal to those who are planning to visit or are currently visiting Japan to remain vigilant and maintain personal, environmental and food hygiene at all times to minimise the risk of being infected,” Dr Tsui said.
     
         “Norovirus is highly contagious and individuals may become infected after being exposed to even a small amount of norovirus. The virus can be transmitted through various means, such as eating contaminated food, contacting with the vomit or excreta of infected persons, and contacting with contaminated objects. It may lead to a large-scale outbreak. Since alcohol is not effective in killing norovirus, alcohol-based handrubs are not a substitute for handwashing with soap and water,” he added.

    Symptoms of norovirus include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, mild fever and malaise. Most patients usually recover on their own and symptoms usually improve within one to three days. Members of the public may visit the CHP’s webpages for more information and preventive advice on norovirus infectionIssued at HKT 20:54

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI China: Local guides hold the untranslatable edge in China’s tourism boom

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Dan Niu, once confined to a cubicle crunching numbers at a Shanghai bank, now spends weekdays cycling through the city’s alleyways, leading foreign tourists past steamed bun stalls and hidden galleries tucked off the beaten path.
    “On our rides, we can stop anytime to chat with locals at breakfast spots or dance with retirees in public squares,” said Dan, whose cycling tours offer international travelers a half-day glimpse into everyday Shanghai, far from the usual tourist trail.
    Dan’s career shift reflects the boom in “China travel,” partly fueled by the continuous optimization of visa-free policies. To date, China has introduced unilateral visa-free policies for 38 countries, and implemented 240-hour transit visa-free arrangements for 54 countries.
    The impact has been striking. More than 20 million visa-free inbound trips were recorded in 2024, a 112.3 percent increase year-on-year, according to the National Immigration Administration.
    This inbound tourism boom has opened up opportunities for people with foreign language skills like Dan.
    GZL International Travel Service in Guangdong Province, south China, has expanded its multilingual guide team to around 30 people, including 14 new team members hired since late 2023, with English-speaking guides remaining the most sought-after.
    In an era of AI-powered instant translation, a tourist may travel to any foreign country without the need for a human translator. However, human connection remains highly valued. After all, while technology can translate, it cannot guide. The warmth of a smile and the bond forged in a shared moment still require a human touch.
    “What we’re seeing goes far beyond language assistance,” said Zhou Weihong, deputy general manager of Shanghai-based travel agency Spring Tour. Since the relaxation of visa policies, the agency has witnessed a growing influx of European and American tourists seeking immersive cultural experiences that standard itineraries often overlook.
    To meet this demand, the agency has included the 2025 Formula 1 Chinese Grand Prix in its tour packages, offering international visitors an exclusive combination of race event access and carefully curated Shanghai city experiences.
    Xu Junjie, a Japanese-speaking guide, has also observed a growing trend in demand for culturally distinctive experiences.
    “Alongside classic tours, visitors are increasingly drawn to quintessentially Chinese activities like tai chi and calligraphy,” Xu said. “Some even request tours of filming locations inspired by Chinese TV dramas.”
    Zhao Da, a Spanish-speaking guide, said Spanish tourist visitors tend to have different priorities. “Spanish tourists are captivated by China’s natural landscapes, with river cruises being their favorite,” Zhao told Xinhua. “Equally important is shopping for unique Chinese-style fashion items.”
    Even for the tourists from the same region, their interests can vary with their ages. Chen Junjun, an English-speaking guide in Shanghai, observed that elderly European tourists seek historical experience delivered with nostalgic warmth, while Gen Z travelers crave urban explorations, including the city’s hidden food gems and vibrant street culture. Therefore, Chen tailors itineraries to suit generational preferences.
    Xu Kai, another English-speaking tour guide, has seen a noticeable rise in visitors from South America. He also noticed that this year’s inbound tourism season started earlier than last year.
    Specializing in high-end travel, Xu curates personalized itineraries that offer visitors access to lesser-known, authentic experiences.
    “What surprises most guests is how different China is from what they expected,” Xu told Xinhua. “I often hear things like, ‘This isn’t what we imagined at all,’ or ‘seeing is believing.’”
    Though consulting tourist agencies remains a choice for many foreign travelers, popular Chinese social media platforms have become a thriving market where tourists discover potential tour guides. This is how Yami, a Russian-language graduate student, finds clients.
    Living in southwest China’s Sichuan Province, home of pandas and spicy hotpot, Yami obtained a tour guide certification in early 2024 and began offering services through Xiaohongshu, or rednote, a popular Chinese social media app.
    Yami receives a flood of inquiries through rednote. In the second half of 2024 alone, Yami led 16 Russian tour groups, and the schedule is already fully booked through June this year.
    For Yami, guiding is more than just a paycheck. “Through daily interactions, I learn about my guests’ lives back home. It feels like a study-abroad experience, with international visitors bringing the world to me,” Yami said. 

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Denis Manturov arrived in Indonesia on a working visit

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    Denis Manturov took part in the plenary session of the Russian-Indonesian business forum “Russia-Indonesia: Partnership Strategy”.

    First Deputy Prime Minister of Russia, Chairman of the Russian-Indonesian Joint Commission on Trade, Economic and Technical Cooperation Denis Manturov arrived at the head of the Russian delegation to Indonesia (Jakarta). The working visit is taking place in the year of the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Russia and Indonesia and will last two days.

    On the first day of the visit, Denis Manturov took part in the plenary session of the Russian-Indonesian business forum “Russia – Indonesia: Partnership Strategy”. The forum participants discussed key issues of bilateral cooperation in trade and investment, industry, agriculture, energy, transport, tourism and creative industries. The forum was organized by the Roscongress Foundation jointly with the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

    Despite the difficult geopolitical situation, cooperation between Russia and Indonesia has continued to strengthen in recent years. “Work between our countries in all areas has not stopped. During this time, our trade turnover has increased significantly, to $4.3 billion last year,” Denis Manturov noted.

    The First Deputy Prime Minister noted that today Russia is implementing the tasks of ensuring technological sovereignty. First of all, in high-tech industries: transport engineering, shipbuilding, pharmaceuticals, space and other areas. At the same time, Russia is open to cooperation with reliable foreign partners, in particular with Indonesia. This concerns cooperation both in the trade and economic sphere, including energy, and in humanitarian areas.

    “I believe that today we have a favorable moment amidst global uncertainty – this moment has arrived, and it is especially felt in today’s business forum and discussions. The next step is to strengthen our trade. Yes, the volume of trade between our countries has increased by 30%, but this is not enough, we need more. And as President Prabowo instructed me, it is necessary to finalize the free trade agreement with the EAEU so that through it, it will facilitate the trade that both Indonesia and Russia need,” said Airlangga Hartarto, Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia.

    “Negotiations on a free trade agreement are underway, and I hope that the agreement will be signed by the end of the year. You know about the initiative of the United States of America to significantly increase foreign trade tariffs, this could give additional impetus to speed up the signing of the agreement,” Denis Manturov said, answering a question from Indonesian media after the session.

    “The Russia-Indonesia Business Forum, which brought together more than 500 entrepreneurs and government officials, became a platform for open and trusting dialogue between the government, business, and society of the two countries,” noted Alexander Stuglev, Chairman of the Board and Director of the Roscongress Foundation.

    At the end of the plenary session of the forum, the First Deputy Prime Minister invited his Indonesian colleagues to take part in the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, the Eastern Economic Forum and the Innoprom International Industrial Exhibition.

    In the afternoon, Denis Manturov visited the Indonesian Badminton Association. Badminton is a national sport in Indonesia, and special attention is paid to its development here. Representatives of the Russian and Indonesian badminton associations told Denis Manturov about their plans for cooperation. Also during the visit, the best athletes of the Indonesian team demonstrated their skills during exhibition performances and held several friendly matches with members of the Russian delegation.

    Denis Manturov also attended a gala concert dedicated to the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Russia and Indonesia. Russian and Indonesian artists and creative groups took part in it.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Yuri Trutnev: The main thing is that people like the new airport in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    Deputy Prime Minister and Presidential Plenipotentiary Representative in the Far Eastern Federal District Yuri Trutnev familiarized himself with the work of the new airport terminal building at the Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky International Airport (Elizovo).

    Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky Airport (Elizovo) is the main air gate of the Kamchatka Territory. The airport is certified according to the ICAO Category II meteorological minimum and guarantees the reception of airplanes and helicopters of any type. The length of the runway is 3.4 thousand meters and provides the ability to receive the largest aircraft.

    “The main thing is that people like the new terminal, that it is convenient, that it helps increase the tourist flow to the wonderful territory of Kamchatka. Some things need to be finished, but the terminal is working. It was a difficult, long and expensive construction, but the finish, in my opinion, was beautiful. We argued for a long time during the construction. The investor said that he wanted to build the most beautiful airport in Russia, but it was important that the construction be carried out with private funds, and not at the expense of the federal budget. In the end, the construction was completed. People are using the finished airport complex,” said Yuri Trutnev.

    The construction of the new airport complex began in December 2020. The first flights in the new building were received by Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky Airport (Elizovo) on March 31 of this year. The new terminal increased the capacity of the airport, which made it possible to expand the geography of flights and increase the airport’s passenger flow. Since the start of its operation, the new terminal has received 126 flights and served more than 27.3 thousand passengers.

    The construction of a new airport terminal is the most modern and large-scale transport project in the history of Kamchatka. The previous airport building did not meet modern requirements and the needs of local residents and guests of the peninsula. Queues, cramped conditions and a limited range of services created discomfort for passengers. That is why the construction of a new modern terminal has become a priority task included in the people’s program for the development of Kamchatka Krai, which has been implemented since 2020 on the initiative of the Governor of Kamchatka Krai Vladimir Solodov based on requests from residents of the region.

    “The new airport is certainly a symbol of the Kamchatka Territory. After all, it is of key importance for our region: all residents can fly on vacation only through it. This means that the services that the airport creates are incredibly important to every resident of Kamchatka, including opening up new opportunities to expand departure routes. The airport is still in the process of opening new zones – retail, catering, hotels, we are also waiting for the onset of warm weather and the improvement of the territory, the creation of additional parking. This work creates certain inconveniences, including for residents. In particular, the airport still has to, as they say, live in the building. Make it cozy, provide for all the nuances – like sockets, hooks, additional navigation signs, and so on. All this sounds like trifles, but it is these details that create a feeling of completeness and comfort. We will work on this together,” said Vladimir Solodov.

    Thanks to the status of a resident of the Kamchatka Priority Development Area, the Far East and Arctic Development Corporation has provided external engineering infrastructure and built an access road to the construction site of the new airport complex.

    The area of passenger service areas in the new terminal is 33 thousand square meters, which is five times more than in the old terminal. The capacity has increased from 360 to 687 passengers per hour, and after the launch of the international sector, it will be 1,145 passengers per hour. The check-in area is equipped with 30 check-in counters: 15 counters for domestic airlines and 15 for international ones (the old terminal had only 12 counters).

    For the first time in Kamchatka, a scheme for moving passengers through closed galleries to the plane has been implemented, which is especially relevant for the harsh and changeable weather conditions of the region. In total, the terminal is equipped with five jet bridges with the possibility of increasing to eight.

    The baggage claim hall for domestic flights is located on the first floor of the terminal and is equipped with two baggage carousels. A separate lane is allocated for public transport on the station square, and a parking space is also equipped.

    “We have successfully implemented the first and most important stage of the project: the terminal began to serve passengers and provided them with a new level of service. Today, boarding and disembarking from aircraft is carried out via jet bridges, baggage is received in comfortable conditions, passenger check-in is carried out in a spacious hall, the number and area of cafes and shops have been increased. Unique innovations have been introduced, such as the ability to self-check in baggage,” said Evgeny Chudnovsky, General Director of the Management Company Airports of Regions.

    The airport complex will also include a 120-room hotel with an area of 11,000 square meters, located directly in the terminal building, with a service level corresponding to five stars, and its own spa area, as well as a modern multifunctional congress hall with an area of 650 square meters in the center of the terminal’s courtyard. The total area of the airport complex, which will include a hotel, congress space and trade areas, will exceed 50,000 square meters.

    “By the summer season, the improvement of the station square and the area around the terminal will be completed, during this year a five-star hotel and a multifunctional congress space for events will begin operating. All this will allow us to create a new cluster for the development of tourism potential and the hospitality industry in Kamchatka Krai,” said Evgeny Chudnovsky.

    Let us recall that in 2018, JSC Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky International Airport (Elizovo) came under the management of the Airports of Regions Management Company.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom announces Pacific Coast Highway will reopen in time for summer as California’s all-in fire response continues ahead of schedule

    Source: US State of California 2

    Apr 12, 2025

    What you need to know: The Pacific Coast Highway, which was closed following the Palisades Fire, will reopen to public travel by the end of May – months ahead of schedule.

    LOS ANGELES – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced an all-hands-on-deck effort to support businesses and tourism by expediting fire cleanup efforts so that State Route 1, the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), will reopen to public travel by the end of May – well ahead of experts’ original predictions.

    The Pacific Coast Highway is a major artery that serves hundreds of thousands of Angelenos and visitors from around the world daily and is crucial to connecting Los Angeles with Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and points north. Currently, PCH is only open to residents who live in the Palisades Fire burn area, essential businesses, and repair crews. Following the reopening, one lane in each direction would be available for public travel.

    “We understand how essential this route is for daily life and local businesses. Reopening PCH is a top priority, and we are going all-in to get this done.” 

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    With the busy summer months along the coast fast approaching, the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services and Caltrans will effectuate the reopening by working 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.

    Crews will work 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.

    There are currently more than 100 USACE crews (consisting of excavators, metal crushing equipment, and dump trucks) working on Palisades Fire parcels. All equipment and dump trucks utilize PCH as a path of travel for the haul routes. Currently, USACE is removing nearly 1,284 truckloads of debris per day.

    Once their work is complete, PCH will be able to safely reopen to the public with one lane in each direction.

    Once the highway is reopened, security checkpoints currently in place on the north and south ends of closure will be removed, but a robust law enforcement presence from state and local agencies will remain in place.

    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 What you need to know: There are just four days left for homeowners and businesses to apply for debris removal assistance. LOS ANGELES – As nearly 500 crews of expert heavy equipment operators work around the clock to rapidly clear ash, soot, and fire debris from…

    News What you need to know: Supported by $10 million from the state, LA Rises, Maersk and APM Terminals, fire-impacted small businesses, nonprofits, and workers will receive $19.1 million from LA-area grant programs.  LOS ANGELES – Earlier this week, the Los Angeles…

    News What you need to know: The U.S. Economic Development Administration formally accepted all 13 Jobs First regional plans as Comprehensive Economic Development Strategies, allowing communities across California to accelerate local economic investment. SACRAMENTO…

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: News Release – DOH Reports Sixth Travel-Related Dengue Virus Case of 2025

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    News Release – DOH Reports Sixth Travel-Related Dengue Virus Case of 2025

    Posted on Apr 11, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

     

     

     

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI

    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

     

    DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

    KA ʻOIHANA OLAKINO

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.
    GOVERNOR

    KE KIA‘ĀINA

    KENNETH S. FINK, M.D., MGA, MPH
    DIRECTOR

    KA LUNA HO‘OKELE

    DOH REPORTS SIXTH TRAVEL-RELATED DENGUE VIRUS CASE OF 2025

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    April 11, 2025                                                                                                    25-035

    HONOLULU — The Hawai‘i Department of Health (DOH) has confirmed a new travel-related case of dengue virus on Oʻahu, bringing the total number of dengue cases to six in the state in 2025 (one on Maui, five on Oʻahu). The affected individual in this current case was exposed to the virus while traveling in a region where dengue is common. This case is unrelated to the dengue case previously reported on April 10, 2025.

    DOH teams have been deployed to conduct inspections and implement mosquito control measures in the affected area. The public is encouraged to follow best practices to help prevent local transmission, as outlined below.

    Dengue virus is transmitted from an infected person to a mosquito, and then to another person. While Hawai‘i is home to the mosquitoes that can carry dengue, the disease is not endemic (established) in the state, and cases are currently limited to travelers. Several regions worldwide are experiencing higher-than-usual dengue activity.

    Dengue outbreaks occur in many parts of the world, including Central and South America, Asia (including the Republic of the Philippines), the Middle East, Africa, and several Pacific Islands, such as U.S. territories like American Samoa, the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands and the Republic of Palau. Many popular tourist destinations in the Caribbean, including Puerto Rico, are also affected.

    In 2024, there were 16 travel-related cases of dengue reported in the state of Hawaiʻi. Cases reported travel to the following countries prior to symptoms onset: Brazil, Argentina, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Honduras, Indonesia, Thailand, Japan, Philippines and India. All destinations listed are areas where dengue is known to be endemic.

    Anyone who plans to travel to or has recently visited an area with dengue risk is vulnerable to infection. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises travelers to take standard precautions when visiting such areas. This includes using an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants outdoors, and sleeping in air-conditioned rooms, rooms with window screens, or under insecticide-treated bed nets. Some countries are reporting increased dengue cases, so travelers should review up-to-date country-specific travel information for guidance on dengue risk and prevention measures at least four to six weeks before traveling.

    Travelers returning from dengue-endemic areas should take precautions to prevent mosquito bites for three weeks. If dengue symptoms develop within two weeks of return, travelers should seek medical evaluation.

    Symptoms of dengue can range from mild to severe and include fever, nausea, vomiting, rash and body aches. Symptoms typically last two to seven days, and while severe illness can occur, most people recover within a week. Individuals who have recently traveled and are experiencing these symptoms should contact their healthcare provider.

    In areas with suspected or confirmed dengue cases, DOH personnel from the Vector Control Branch (VCB) are conducting inspections and mosquito-reduction activities. Reducing mosquito populations lowers the risk of dengue transmission to others. In areas without reported dengue cases, eliminating mosquito breeding sites around the home is a helpful preventive measure.

    Mosquitoes need only small amounts of standing water to breed. Common breeding sites include buckets, water-catching plants (such as bromeliads), small containers, planters, rain barrels and even cups left outside. Pouring out containers of standing water can significantly reduce the potential for mosquito breeding.

    For more information, visit the Disease Outbreak Control Division (DOCD) and Vector Control Branch (VCB) websites.

    # # #

    Media Contact:

    Kristen Wong

    Information Specialist

    Hawaiʻi State Department of Health

    Mobile: 808-953-9616

    Email: [email protected]

     

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Recovery work helping Daintree National Park (CYPAL) get ‘back to business’

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Issued: 10 Apr 2025

    Key points

    • Recovery works are helping Daintree National Park (CYPAL) get back to business following recent weather events.
    • Repairs and upgrades are ongoing at key sites, returning the national park to a leading ecotourism destination.
    • Sites include the Kulki Boardwalk Lookout, Dubuji and Madja boardwalks, and sections of the Mossman Gorge walking tracks.

    Ongoing repairs and upgrades across Daintree National Park (CYPAL) are on track to reopen key visitor infrastructure in time for the Easter school holidays, ensuring visitors can explore the world’s oldest rainforest and support local tourism.

    The upgrades will help Far North Queensland get ‘back to business’ following the impact of weather events which caused significant flooding, debris and landslips on a number of sites and assets in the national park.

    Work in Daintree National Park (CYPAL) includes:

    • Starting the $4.5 million Jindalba boardwalk upgrades – including accessibility improvements that are set to open mid-2025.
    • Mobilising construction on the Eastern Kuku Yalanji Bamanga Muruku Tourism Hub – allowing traditional owners of the world’s oldest rainforest to share their culture with visitors, set to open later this year.
    • Reopening the Kulki Boardwalk Lookout after repairs from debris damage.
    • Reopening the Dubuji and Madja boardwalks after cyclone debris removal and flood repairs.
    • Reopening Mossman Gorge walking tracks after repairing a damaged pedestrian bridge.
    • Progressing plans for the Walu Wugirriga Alexandra Range Lookout upgrade for enhanced views.

    Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation Deputy Director-General Ben Klaassen said they’re ensuring these wonders can be witnessed for generations to come.

    “Our dedicated Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service team has been working hard to ensure visitors to the national park can truly enjoy north and far north Queensland’s wonderful natural environment,” said Mr Klaassen.

    “Daintree National Park (CYPAL) protects one of the oldest rainforests in the world, which is teaming with diverse wildlife.

    “Attracting visitors who appreciate this stunning environment allows the national park to play an essential role for the local economy, while showcasing unique biodiversity and rich Indigenous culture.

    “We are forging ahead with a number of exciting projects to ensure ecotourism icons like the Daintree continue to support our vibrant state.”

    Tourism Tropical North Queensland CEO Mark Olsen welcomed the recovery work and upgrades in Daintree National Park (CYPAL).

    “These works are essential for preserving the region’s world-renowned natural beauty and ensuring a safe, enjoyable experience for visitors,” said Mr Olsen.

    “This work is vital for tourism, helping to support local businesses, attract nature lovers from around the globe, and strengthen the region’s reputation as a must-visit destination.”

    Jabalbina Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation CEO Joshua Paterson said the Daintree National Park (CYPAL) held deep cultural significance for the Eastern Kuku Yalanji people.

    “This is part of our ancestral land, rich with sacred sites, stories, and traditions passed down for generations,” said Mr Paterson.

    “Our partnership with the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service to protect and preserve the park’s cultural and environmental values, allows us to share our knowledge and heritage while safeguarding the rainforest’s unique ecosystems for all to experience and respect.”

    Daintree National Park (CYPAL), a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its unparalleled biodiversity, featuring a rare convergence of reef, rainforest, and mangrove ecosystems that support unique species like the southern cassowary and Bennett’s tree-kangaroo.

    The national park is under the joint management of the Eastern Kuku Yalanji people and the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, whose efforts are focused on preserving the park’s cultural and environmental significance while promoting sustainable tourism.

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Phase Two of Tech4Nature Jaguar Protection Project Launched in Mexico

    Source: Huawei

    Headline: Phase Two of Tech4Nature Jaguar Protection Project Launched in Mexico

    [Merida, Mexico, April 14, 2025] At the recent 2025 Tech4Nature Summit, Huawei, International Union of Conservation for Nature (IUCN), and local partners launched Phase Two of the Mexico Tech4Nature project, which aims to strengthen the protection of jaguars in Dzilam de Bravo State Reserve and study the effects of climate change on biodiversity.
    Alongside Huawei and IUCN, the launch was officiated by Mexico’s Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, the State Government of Yucatán, and local partner C-Minds.
    “In Mexico, 42% of our country’s ecosystems face some degree of degradation that we have to work towards solving. This involves monitoring and a lot of restoration work, but it also means something more important, which is precisely what we’re seeing thanks to this alliance,” said Dr. Marina Robles García, Undersecretary of Biodiversity and Environmental Restoration for the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources in Mexico.
    Aligned with Huawei’s TECH4ALL initiative and the IUCN Green List, Tech4Nature is a global partnership launched by Huawei and IUCN in 2020 to scale up success in nature conservation through technological innovation.
    “Today we celebrate a shared vision, a vision that understands that conservation can no longer depend solely on good intentions or isolated policies. We need science, technology, empowered communities, and committed governments,” said Joaquín Díaz Mena, Governor of Yucatán in Mexico, at the 2025 Tech4Nature Summit.
    Due to habitat loss and fragmentation, the jaguar is classified as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List. To contribute to its conservation, the first phase of the project installed 60 audio devices and more than 20 camera traps in Dzilam de Bravo State Reserve. Using trained AI models, the system is able to recognize the vocalizations and images of species that inhabit the reserve. By April 2025, the solution had identified a total of 147 species and confirmed the presence of nine jaguars in the territory.
    The second phase of the project focuses on gathering data about the distribution of jaguar populations, and providing data-driven insights to support decision-making and improve reserve management with a view to creating a biological corridor.
    The 2025 Tech4Nature Summit brought together experts, scientists, and conservation leaders from around the world to share advances and strategies in technology-driven nature conservation.
    “Digital technology is making biodiversity conservation much more efficient and helping governments and conservationists take faster, more targeted action,” said Tao Jingwen, Director of the Board and Director of the Corporate Sustainable Development Committee for Huawei. “I want to call on more of our partners to join the Tech4Nature initiative to make digital technology a common tool for global ecosystem conservation.”
    As well as Mexico, the summit explored Tech4Nature Phase Two projects in Brazil, China, Spain, Kenya, and Türkiye, showcasing how digital technologies and AI analytics can be adapted to the specific needs of diverse ecosystems.
    “Building on our momentum so far, we look forward to the second phase of this partnership with great anticipation. This new chapter will address six countries, promoting transformative change for species, ecosystems, and their communities,” said Úrsula Parrilla, Director, Regional Office for Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean (ORMACC) for IUCN. “By integrating technology into large-scale conservation, we contribute to global goals that seek to put nature at the center of decision-making for sustainable development.”
    Tech4Nature phase two projects
    Brazil will study the impact of climate change on Marajó Island and monitor the mangrove crab as an indicator of ecosystem health.
    China uses networked digital solutions and AI analytics to track and support the repopulation of the world’s rarest primate, the Hainan gibbon, just 42 of which remain in existence.
    Spain aims to protect the Bonelli’s eagle in Sant Llorenç del Munt i l’Obac Natural Park by using digital technologies to analyze the impact of park visitors on the eagles’ reproductive success.
    Kenya aims to improve monitoring in protected marine areas and coral reef in Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park and Reserve to help tackle issues such as illegal fishing and pressure from tourism, and monitor the parrot fish, which helps coral survive.
    Türkiye represents a pioneering collaboration between NGOs, the private sector, and the government to evaluate biodiversity protection, with a focus on large mammals, including the fallow deer and wild goat in two pilot sites.
    The 2025 Tech4Nature Summit attested to how collaboration between the technology sector, NGOs, governments, academic institutions, and local communities has created a new paradigm for protecting biodiversity and ecosystems.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Phase Two of Tech4Nature Jaguar Protection Project Launched in Mexico

    Source: Huawei

    Headline: Phase Two of Tech4Nature Jaguar Protection Project Launched in Mexico

    [Merida, Mexico, April 14, 2025] At the recent 2025 Tech4Nature Summit, Huawei, International Union of Conservation for Nature (IUCN), and local partners launched Phase Two of the Mexico Tech4Nature project, which aims to strengthen the protection of jaguars in Dzilam de Bravo State Reserve and study the effects of climate change on biodiversity.
    Alongside Huawei and IUCN, the launch was officiated by Mexico’s Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, the State Government of Yucatán, and local partner C-Minds.
    “In Mexico, 42% of our country’s ecosystems face some degree of degradation that we have to work towards solving. This involves monitoring and a lot of restoration work, but it also means something more important, which is precisely what we’re seeing thanks to this alliance,” said Dr. Marina Robles García, Undersecretary of Biodiversity and Environmental Restoration for the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources in Mexico.
    Aligned with Huawei’s TECH4ALL initiative and the IUCN Green List, Tech4Nature is a global partnership launched by Huawei and IUCN in 2020 to scale up success in nature conservation through technological innovation.
    “Today we celebrate a shared vision, a vision that understands that conservation can no longer depend solely on good intentions or isolated policies. We need science, technology, empowered communities, and committed governments,” said Joaquín Díaz Mena, Governor of Yucatán in Mexico, at the 2025 Tech4Nature Summit.
    Due to habitat loss and fragmentation, the jaguar is classified as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List. To contribute to its conservation, the first phase of the project installed 60 audio devices and more than 20 camera traps in Dzilam de Bravo State Reserve. Using trained AI models, the system is able to recognize the vocalizations and images of species that inhabit the reserve. By April 2025, the solution had identified a total of 147 species and confirmed the presence of nine jaguars in the territory.
    The second phase of the project focuses on gathering data about the distribution of jaguar populations, and providing data-driven insights to support decision-making and improve reserve management with a view to creating a biological corridor.
    The 2025 Tech4Nature Summit brought together experts, scientists, and conservation leaders from around the world to share advances and strategies in technology-driven nature conservation.
    “Digital technology is making biodiversity conservation much more efficient and helping governments and conservationists take faster, more targeted action,” said Tao Jingwen, Director of the Board and Director of the Corporate Sustainable Development Committee for Huawei. “I want to call on more of our partners to join the Tech4Nature initiative to make digital technology a common tool for global ecosystem conservation.”
    As well as Mexico, the summit explored Tech4Nature Phase Two projects in Brazil, China, Spain, Kenya, and Türkiye, showcasing how digital technologies and AI analytics can be adapted to the specific needs of diverse ecosystems.
    “Building on our momentum so far, we look forward to the second phase of this partnership with great anticipation. This new chapter will address six countries, promoting transformative change for species, ecosystems, and their communities,” said Úrsula Parrilla, Director, Regional Office for Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean (ORMACC) for IUCN. “By integrating technology into large-scale conservation, we contribute to global goals that seek to put nature at the center of decision-making for sustainable development.”
    Tech4Nature phase two projects
    Brazil will study the impact of climate change on Marajó Island and monitor the mangrove crab as an indicator of ecosystem health.
    China uses networked digital solutions and AI analytics to track and support the repopulation of the world’s rarest primate, the Hainan gibbon, just 42 of which remain in existence.
    Spain aims to protect the Bonelli’s eagle in Sant Llorenç del Munt i l’Obac Natural Park by using digital technologies to analyze the impact of park visitors on the eagles’ reproductive success.
    Kenya aims to improve monitoring in protected marine areas and coral reef in Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park and Reserve to help tackle issues such as illegal fishing and pressure from tourism, and monitor the parrot fish, which helps coral survive.
    Türkiye represents a pioneering collaboration between NGOs, the private sector, and the government to evaluate biodiversity protection, with a focus on large mammals, including the fallow deer and wild goat in two pilot sites.
    The 2025 Tech4Nature Summit attested to how collaboration between the technology sector, NGOs, governments, academic institutions, and local communities has created a new paradigm for protecting biodiversity and ecosystems.

    MIL OSI Global Banks

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Secretary-General meets with Secretary-General of ASEAN-Japan Centre

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, this afternoon met with Dr. HIRABAYASHI Kunihiko, Secretary-General of the ASEAN-Japan Centre, over a working lunch in Osaka.

    During the meeting, Dr. Kao conveyed his appreciation for the ASEAN-Japan Centre’s commitment to bolstering trade, investment, tourism, and people connectivity between Japan and ASEAN, and more recently, in promoting ASEAN’s participation in the World Expo 2025. He also congratulated the AJC on its upcoming 44th anniversary in May, and looked forward to greater synergy with the ASEAN Secretariat.

    The post Secretary-General meets with Secretary-General of ASEAN-Japan Centre appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Global Banks

  • MIL-OSI China: Full text of Xi’s signed article in Vietnamese newspaper

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

    BEIJING, April 14 — A signed article by General Secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese President Xi Jinping titled “Building on past achievements and making new advances in pursuit of shared goals” was published Monday in the Nhan Dan Newspaper of Vietnam as he is traveling to Vietnam for a state visit to the country.

    The following is the full text of the article:

    Building on past achievements and making new advances in pursuit of shared goals

    Xi Jinping

    General Secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and President of the People’s Republic of China

    Late spring is full of vitality. As China and Vietnam celebrate the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations, I will soon pay a state visit to Vietnam at the invitation of Comrade To Lam, General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam, and Vietnamese President Comrade Luong Cuong. This will be my fourth visit to this beautiful country since I became General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and President of the People’s Republic of China. I look forward to renewing friendship with Vietnamese leaders, discussing ways of boosting cooperation, and drawing up a new blueprint for the China-Vietnam community with a shared future in the new era.

    China and Vietnam are friendly socialist neighbours sharing the same ideals and extensive strategic interests. The profound friendship between the two parties and two peoples, forged decades ago, has grown stronger as we explore a socialist path suited to our respective national conditions and advance our respective modernization drive. Building the China-Vietnam community with a shared future that carries strategic significance serves the common interests of our two countries and is conducive to peace, stability, development and prosperity in our region and beyond. It conforms with the trend of history. And it is the choice by our peoples.

    The China-Vietnam community with a shared future is inherited from our distinctive revolutionary traditions. During modern times, pioneers of Chinese and Vietnamese revolutions together explored a path to national salvation and made important contribution to the Third World’s victory in the struggle against colonialism and imperialism. The historical site of the Vietnamese Revolutionary Youth League in Guangzhou and the site of the office of the League for Independence of Vietnam in Jingxi, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region bear witness to the revolutionary friendship between China and Vietnam. President Ho Chi Minh joined and supported the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression in Yan’an, Guilin, Chongqing and Kunming. China sent military and political advisers in support of the Vietnamese people’s War Against French Occupation. The Communist Party of China and the Chinese government and people gave full support for Vietnam’s just War Against U.S. Aggression to Save the Nation. The well-known line: “The friendship between Vietnam and China is so profound because we are both comrades and brothers,” is etched on our shared revolutionary memory.

    The China-Vietnam community with a shared future is based on strong political mutual trust. In recent years, General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, General Secretary To Lam and other Vietnamese leaders and I have visited each other many times, steering the course for building a China-Vietnam community with a shared future. Our two parties and two countries have kept close high-level engagement. Mechanisms such as the steering committee for bilateral cooperation, the party-to-party theoretical symposium, the border defence friendship exchange, and the conference on crime control between the two public security ministries are functioning smoothly. High-level mechanisms including the joint committee between the National People’s Congress of China and the National Assembly of Vietnam have been established. The “3+3” strategic dialogue on diplomacy, defence and public security between our two countries has been held successfully. China and Vietnam hold similar positions on many regional and international issues and have engaged in close coordination on them.

    The China-Vietnam community with a shared future is rooted in our fruitful cooperation. China and Vietnam have pursued closer cooperation on industrial and supply chains amid a sluggish global economic recovery. China has been Vietnam’s biggest trading partner for over 20 years in a row, with total bilateral trade exceeding 260 billion USD in 2024. More and more quality Vietnamese agricultural products such as durian and coconut are available to Chinese consumers. Railway connectivity and the smart port development project are being steadily advanced. Solar panels, waste-to-energy plants and other bilateral clean energy projects have boosted electricity supply in Vietnam. The Cat Linh-Ha Dong metro line built by a Chinese company makes public transport in Hanoi more convenient. Contributing to each other’s success and pursuing common development, China and Vietnam have set an example of solidarity and cooperation in the Global South.

    The China-Vietnam community with a shared future is advanced by close people-to-people exchanges. Over the years, we have seen ever more people-to-people exchanges that foster increasingly closer ties between Chinese and Vietnamese peoples. Chinese tourists made more than 3.7 million visits to Vietnam in 2024. With the official launch of the Detian-Ban Gioc Waterfall Cross-Border Tourism Cooperation Zone and the opening of several cross-border road trip routes, visiting two countries in a single day has become possible. Chinese film and television productions and video games are popular among young Vietnamese, and more people in Vietnam are learning Chinese. Many Vietnamese songs are now on hot search lists on social media in China, and many Chinese diners relish pho and other Vietnamese delicacies.

    Today, global, epoch-making and historical changes are unfolding like never before, and the world has entered a new period of turbulent transformation. Despite the headwinds of mounting unilateralism and protectionism, the Chinese economy expanded by five percent in 2024, contributing around 30 percent to the global economy. It remains a key engine of the world economy. China’s new energy sector, artificial intelligence and animated films have come into global spotlight. China will continue to provide more opportunities to the world with its high-standard opening up, and will contribute to the development of all countries with its high-quality development.

    Asia represents a new elevation in global cooperation and development. At a new starting point toward revitalisation of the whole region, Asia faces both unprecedented opportunities and challenges. China will ensure continuity and stability of its neighbourhood diplomacy. We will stay committed to the principle of amity, sincerity, mutual benefit and inclusiveness. We will continue to pursue the policy of forging friendship and partnership with our neighbours. And we will steadily deepen friendly cooperation with them to advance Asia’s modernization.

    China is going all out to build a great modern socialist country and achieve the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation by pursuing Chinese modernization. Vietnam will usher in a new epoch of national development toward the two goals set for the centenary of the party and the country respectively. China always gives Vietnam high priority in its neighbourhood diplomacy. Our two countries should strengthen our efforts on all fronts to build the China-Vietnam community with a shared future, and contribute more to peace, stability, development and prosperity in Asia and the world at large.

    — We should deepen strategic mutual trust and advance the socialist cause. The two sides should act on the guidance of the leaders. The China-Vietnam steering committee for bilateral cooperation should coordinate our interactions more effectively to boost party, government, military, law enforcement and security cooperation; jointly tackle external risks and challenges; and uphold political security. China is ready to enhance exchanges of governance practices with Vietnam, explore and enrich together socialist theory and practices, and promote the steady development of the two countries’ socialist cause.

    — We should continue win-win cooperation and deliver more benefit to our two peoples. We should create greater synergy between our development strategies, implement well the cooperation plan between the two governments on synergizing the Belt and Road Initiative and the Two Corridors and One Economic Circle strategy, and build more platforms for economic and technological cooperation. China stands ready to advance cooperation with Vietnam on the three standard-gauge railways in northern Vietnam and the smart port. China welcomes more quality Vietnamese products in the Chinese market and encourages more Chinese enterprises to invest and do business in Vietnam. Our two countries should step up cooperation on industrial and supply chains, and expand cooperation in emerging areas such as 5G, artificial intelligence and green development to create more benefits for the two peoples.

    — We should strengthen people-to-people exchanges and forge a closer bond between our peoples. This year is the China-Vietnam Year of People-to-People Exchanges, and we should use this opportunity to promote people-to-people exchanges in diverse forms. China welcomes Vietnamese visitors to travel across China and encourages Chinese tourists to visit scenic sites in Vietnam. Our two countries should carry out more activities that will bring our two peoples together such as the friendly meeting between youth and festive events in border areas. We should further tap into our revolutionary resources and tell stories of friendship that resonate with our two peoples, so as to pass on the baton of China-Vietnam friendship from generation to generation.

    — We should enhance multilateral collaboration and promote Asia’s prosperity and revitalization. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War as well as the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations. Our two countries should firmly uphold the UN-centered international system and the international order underpinned by international law. It is important that we pursue the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilisation Initiative. It is also important that we promote an equal and orderly multipolar world and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization. We should work together with the Global South to uphold the common interests of developing countries. Trade war and tariff war will produce no winner, and protectionism will lead nowhere. Our two countries should resolutely safeguard the multilateral trading system, stable global industrial and supply chains, and open and cooperative international environment. We should strengthen coordination in mechanisms such as East Asia cooperation and Lancang-Mekong cooperation so as to ensure more stability for a changing and turbulent world and inject more positive energy in it.

    — We should properly manage differences and safeguard peace and stability in our region. The successful delimitation of our boundaries on land and in the Beibu Gulf demonstrates that with vision, we are fully capable of properly settling maritime issues through consultation and negotiation. The two sides should implement the common understanding reached between the leaders of the two parties and the two countries. We should make good use of the maritime negotiation mechanism so as to properly manage maritime differences, expand maritime cooperation, and build up conditions for the final resolution of the disputes. We should fully and effectively implement the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea and actively advance the consultation on a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea. We should be impervious to all interference; bridge differences and expand common ground; and make the South China Sea a sea of peace, friendship and cooperation.

    Standing at this new starting point of history, China is ready to work with Vietnam to build on past achievements, write a new chapter in building the China-Vietnam community with a shared future, and contribute even more to building a community with a shared future for mankind.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Small business urged to apply for tourism opportunities

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Small businesses have been encouraged to apply for opportunities provided by the Department of Tourism.

    “The Department of Tourism is dedicated to creating an inclusive, sustainable, and resilient tourism economy. We have a variety of programmes with the specific aim of promoting tourism, alleviating poverty and creating jobs,” Tourism Deputy Minister Maggie Sotyu said.

    Addressing a stakeholder engagement at the Fezile Dabi District Municipality in the Free State, the Deputy Minister said small businesses face challenges that threaten their survival and growth. 

    These include limited access to funding and financial support, skills gap in business management and digital transformation, market access and a lack of exposure to international tourists.

    “As the government, our role is to enable and empower small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) to overcome these barriers and it is our duty to maximise every opportunity to empower these enterprises.

    “Embracing sustainable tourism by black-owned enterprises is not just about being part of a global trend, but is a necessity for resilience, competitiveness and profitability,” the Deputy Minister said on Friday.

    The department’s Market Access Support Programme offers financial support to small tourism enterprises to exhibit at tourism platforms.

    “I want to urge you to visit the Department of Tourism website at www.tourism.gov.za and look at this Market Access Support Incentive Programme. 

    “This week we are assisting 49 tourism SMMEs [small, medium, and micro enterprises] to promote their services at the World Travel Market Africa in Cape Town. We also want to encourage you to apply for our Green Tourism Incentive Programme which offers a win-win solution to tourism establishments and our greening objectives,” the Deputy Minister said.

    The Green Tourism Incentive Programme is a resource efficiency programme which aims to support tourism enterprises to reduce the cost of investing in energy and water efficient solutions. 

    “This incentive can greatly assist a tourism establishment to reduce their electricity and water bills in the long term. The department also established a Tourism Transformation Fund and Tourism Equity Fund to support the transformation efforts in the sector. 

    “The Transformation Fund offers a combination of debt finance and grant funding for new and expansion tourism development projects with majority black shareholding,” she said.

    For tourist guides, the department has a number of programmes including language training. 

    “We recently advertised for youth to apply for tourist guide training in Vredefort Dome and we are currently conducting tourist guide training in Golden Gate National Park. 

    “For youth in tourism, the department offers annually a bursary programme and learnership programmes, focusing on professional cooking, wine appreciation and hospitality, targeting youth with a specific interest in tourism,” said the Deputy Minister. –SAnews.gov.za
     

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Tourism turbocharge takes New Zealand to the world

    Source: New Zealand Government

    A major drive boosting New Zealand as an international travel destination will kick off with a $13.5 million turbocharge for global marketing activity, Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston has announced. 

    “We’re a Government relentlessly focused on growing the economy so Kiwis can get ahead. All the stats show tourism will play a leading role as that growth continues,” Louise Upston says.

    “Today I’m delighted to announce a $13.5 million investment for Tourism New Zealand to encourage more international visitors across multiple markets.

    “Encouraging more visitors means more people staying in our hotels, eating in our cafés, spending in our shops and visiting our attractions, creating jobs and driving economic growth.

    “The initial investment will include a focus on encouraging visitors from China, Australia, the United States, India, Germany and South Korea. In these countries and beyond there are millions of people actively considering coming here and experiencing all New Zealand has to offer. 

    “We know international marketing works, with around 14 per cent of international holiday visitors already being directly influenced by Tourism NZ’s marketing activity. 

    “We want to grow that influence. Our international visitor spending and visitor numbers have been rebuilding strongly, and we must make the most of that momentum. 

    “The $13.5 million announced today is estimated to result in more than 23,000 additional international visitors and spending an extra $100 million across the country. 

    “That will be a major boost, not just for tourism and hospitality providers, but in regions and communities throughout the country.

    “We have encouraging signs coming through from our ‘Everyone Must Go!’ campaign focused on Australia, but we won’t stop there.

    “2025 is our chance to reinforce the value of tourism and show what our humming, vibrant country has on show. New Zealand tourism is open for business. 

    “We already know our country has so much going for it. Now we need the global marketing to push that story even wider,” Louise Upston says.

    Specific campaigns will be announced as they continue to be developed during 2025.

    Notes for Editors

    Tourism’s key numbers

    • Tourism now contributes 7.5 per cent of GDP and continues to be our second highest export.
    • The Tourism Satellite Account shows total tourism expenditure in New Zealand of $44.4 billion for the year ending March 2024, an increase of $5.6 billion or 14.6 per cent compared to March 2023.
    • Overseas visitor expenditure increased by $6.3 billion (59.9 per cent) to $16.9 billion
    • International expenditure grew almost 60 per cent in the year ending March 2024.

    Tourism initiatives, funded through the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy, in 2025 include:

    • $500,000 for marketing New Zealand as the ‘go now’ destination for Australians
    • $9 million for New Zealand Cycle Trail Fund to enhance the Great Rides
    • $3 million for a Regional Tourism Boost
    • $3 million to secure more business events for New Zealand
    • $2.45 million for the second round of the Regional Events Promotion Fund
    • And an additional $30 million to support conservation visitor related experiences

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI China: China major contributor to preserving Cambodia’s iconic Angkor: tourism minister

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

    PHNOM PENH, April 14 — China has been a major contributor to safeguarding, preserving and developing the UNESCO-listed Angkor Archaeological Park in northwest Cambodia’s Siem Reap province, Cambodia’s Tourism Minister Huot Hak said.

    The 401-square-km Angkor park, the kingdom’s most popular tourist destination, is home to 91 ancient temples, which had been built from the ninth to the 13th centuries.

    Key temples include the Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Bayon, Chau Say Tevoda, Ta Keo, Banteay Srei, Ta Prohm, and Phnom Bakheng, among others.

    China had helped restore ruined temples in the park since 1997 by successfully restoring Chau Say Tevoda and Ta Keo. Currently, the Chinese experts have been restoring the Phimeanakas temple located inside the walled enclosure of the Royal Palace of the Angkor Thom.

    Hak said China took the lead in providing scholars, architectural experts, archaeologists, and technicians to help restore and preserve ruined temples in the Angkor park.

    “I’d like to thank the government and people of the People’s Republic of China for sacrificing time, physical and mental energies, materials and budget to help preserve, protect and restore ancient temples in Cambodia’s Angkor complex,” he told Xinhua in a recent interview.

    The minister praised the Chinese experts for helping restore ruined monuments in the Angkor park into their stunning original forms, saying that their great contributions were invaluable for the people of Cambodia.

    “I’d like to express my profound gratitude and record the merits of the People’s Republic of China, Chinese scholars, experts, and technicians in contributing actively to the mission of restoring, preserving and developing temples in this world heritage site,” he said.

    Hak said Cambodia has trust and confidence in China in helping restore the Phimeanakas temple within the Royal Palace of the Angkor Thom.

    He added that China’s aid has not only contributed to ensuring the sustainable development of ancient temples in the Angkor park, but also helped train Cambodian experts and archaeologists on the work of safeguarding and preserving ancient temples.

    The Angkor park attracted a total of 1.02 million international tourists in 2024, generating a gross revenue of 47.8 million U.S. dollars from ticket sales, according to the state-owned Angkor Enterprise.

    Speaking of Cambodia-China cooperation in the tourism sector, Hak said China is also a key supporter for tourism development in the Southeast Asian country, adding that Chinese-invested mega-infrastructure projects, such as the Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville Expressway and the Siem Reap Angkor International Airport, have laid a solid foundation for the kingdom’s development of economy and tourism.

    Sharing his view on building a community with a shared future for mankind, Hak said any initiative launched by China always aims to provide common interest for the whole world and help make the world more harmonious with shared prosperity and common development.

    “Cambodia and other countries alike are really happy to welcome and fully support it because this initiative is global in nature for common interest and win-win results for all,” he said.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s Hainan FTP brings about broader opportunities through high-level opening up

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

    China’s Hainan FTP brings about broader opportunities through high-level opening up

    HAIKOU, April 13 — At the Yiling Life Care Center in the Boao Lecheng International Medical Tourism Pilot Zone, patients are seen undergoing rehabilitation exercises under the guidance of therapists in a spacious, bright hall.

    In an equipment room, Damien Meunier, from France, is intently calibrating a therapy device, adjusting parameters and components with focused precision.

    Meunier first visited China in 2019 as a tourist and was soon drawn to the unique opportunities emerging in Hainan’s healthcare sector amid the rapidly developing Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP). In 2021, he joined Yiling Life Care Center as a medical equipment engineer, based in Boao Township in south China’s Hainan Province.

    “The Hainan FTP is the ideal place for my career development,” said Meunier. “It combines opening-up policies, innovation, and exceptional life quality.”

    As China’s only “medical special zone,” the Boao Lecheng International Medical Tourism Pilot Zone, established in 2013, was granted special policy support that allows eligible pharmaceuticals and medical devices, licensed abroad but not yet available domestically, to be used for patients through streamlined procedures.

    The pilot zone is the epitome of Hainan’s role as a gateway for global openness.

    In April 2018, China announced a decision to develop Hainan into a pilot free trade zone while gradually exploring and steadily promoting the establishment of an FTP with Chinese characteristics. In June 2020, a master plan was rolled out to build the island into a globally influential and high-level FTP by the middle of the century.

    Seven years on, Hainan has built a policy framework centered on “free and convenient trade, investment, cross-border capital flows, personnel mobility and transportation, and the safe and orderly flow of data,” and an FTP system underpinned by features like zero tariffs, low tax rates, and simplified tax systems.

    Amid global headwinds against globalization, the Hainan FTP stands as China’s testament to unwavering openness.

    Official statistics show that by the end of 2024, the province was home to 9,979 foreign-funded enterprises, with 77.3 percent established after June 2020. The number of countries and regions investing in Hainan has jumped from 43 in 2018 to 174 today.

    As an important part of the Hainan FTP construction, Hainan has adopted a variety of measures to optimize its business environment to facilitate free and convenient trade and investment.

    “In alignment with the world’s highest standards of openness, Hainan has formulated and implemented a series of opening-up measures to create a ‘foreign investor-friendly’ business environment,” said Wang Xuehao, deputy head of the Hainan Provincial Department of Business Environment Development. “The measures include expanding the scale of innovative development in trade of goods, promoting two-way investment, and fostering cross-border industrial chain cooperation.”

    In the Haikou Comprehensive Bonded Zone, Hainan GoldMax Dairy Co., Ltd. has established an industrial park spanning over 50,000 square meters, integrating offshore duty-free retail, e-commerce, general trade and cross-border supplied materials processing, reflecting the company’s strong confidence in the potential of the Hainan FTP.

    “The Hainan Free Trade Port has provided us with vast development space and opportunities and helped us bring high-quality products to China and beyond,” said Wu Suguo, CEO of the dairy company.

    By the end of this year, the free trade port will officially begin independent customs operations, which will be “a form of openness on a larger scale,” said Zhao Jinping, a member of the Expert Advisory Committee for the Construction of the Hainan Free Trade Port. “It means the connectivity between the Hainan Free Trade Port and the rest of the world will become even smoother.”

    Currently, all 31 port infrastructure projects needed for independent customs operations have been completed, laying a solid foundation for efficient flow and supervision of goods and personnel.

    Meanwhile, as the Hainan FTP begins independent customs operations by the year’s end, its preferential policies such as “zero tariffs, low tax rates, and simplified tax systems” will be implemented more comprehensively and meticulously. A series of core free trade port policies are also expected to be accelerated for full implementation.

    According to Meunier, once the Hainan FTP begins independent customs operations, the advantages will become more evident in areas such as imported equipment, cutting-edge technologies, and international tourism. “I look forward to the future of the Hainan FTP.”

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Russia

    Source:

    We’ve reviewed our travel advice for Russia and continue to advise do not travel. Foreigners, including Australians, are at risk of arbitrary detention or arrest. Russian authorities make strong, negative comments regarding Western countries, including Australia. Local authorities may adopt a more negative attitude towards foreigners in Russia and arbitrarily enforce local laws. Avoid any protests or demonstrations and avoid commenting publicly on political developments.

    There’s a high threat of terrorism. Terrorist groups, including al-Qaeda and Daesh-aligned groups, continue to call for attacks in Russia. Attacks can be indiscriminate and may occur on or around seasonal, festive, or religious events in public places, including popular tourist sites. Attacks could occur with little or no warning. Always be alert to possible threats. Military activity is underway in the regions of Kursk and Belgorod. Russian authorities introduced a federal state of emergency in these regions. The security situation could deteriorate with little warning.

    If you’re in Russia, leave immediately using the commercial options available or private means if it’s safe to do so. Departure routes from Russia may become disrupted at short notice. Have an alternate exit plan. Review your personal security plans and carefully consider the safest means and route to depart. You’re responsible for your own safety and that of your family.

    MIL OSI News