NewzIntel.com

Category: Trade

  • MIL-OSI China: Intl fair vital platform for foreign capital

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

    China is stepping up efforts to attract foreign capital and deepen two-way investment cooperation, underscoring the nation’s firm commitment to high-level opening-up and the vast potential of its market amid rising global protectionism and economic uncertainty, officials said.

    As part of these efforts, the China International Fair for Investment and Trade has evolved into a vital platform for promoting mutual investment and showcasing China’s ongoing commitment to creating a world-class business environment.

    With its 25th edition to be held from Sept 8 to 11 in Xiamen, Fujian province, the fair is expected to draw growing international attention as a gateway to explore investment opportunities in China.

    “We hope foreign enterprises will take this opportunity to better understand the new opportunities in China’s market and witness firsthand the country’s strong determination to attract foreign capital and foster mutually beneficial partnerships,” said Zhao Yang, deputy director general of the Ministry of Commerce’s department of foreign investment administration, during a fair-related event in Beijing.

    Zhao noted that the country is now working on expanding the catalog of encouraged industries for foreign investment. The updated catalog is expected to include more than 200 new items, representing an increase of over 15 percent compared to the previous version.

    Meanwhile, the fair has been instrumental in propelling the ongoing global efforts of Chinese enterprises and helping them achieve win-win outcomes through investment cooperation with various countries and regions.

    Cao Wen, deputy director general of the ministry’s outward investment and economic cooperation department, said: “By enhancing the facilitation of China’s outbound investment, we are empowering Chinese companies to engage more deeply in the global industrial division of labor. This, in turn, contributes to strengthening the resilience and security of the global industrial chain,” Cao said, adding that in the face of current global economic volatility, it is crucial for all countries to work together to withstand the risks and challenges, and realize shared development.

    “We hope that foreign embassies will make the best use of the fair to proactively showcase their investment climates, favorable policies and attractive projects to Chinese enterprises and investors,” Cao added.

    China’s outbound direct investment in 2024 totaled $162.8 billion, while the cumulative stock of China’s overseas investment has surpassed $3 trillion, spanning 189 countries and regions around the world, the ministry said.

    Lewis Neal, the United Kingdom’s trade commissioner for China, said: “We see Chinese businesses succeed in the UK, and we see UK businesses succeed in China. The UK places high importance on trade and investment cooperation with China, and the wealth of opportunities presented by the Chinese market.”

    The UK is the guest country of honor at this year’s CIFIT.

    Yu Hao, deputy director of the Xiamen Municipal Bureau of Commerce, said: “Both domestic and foreign participants will see a noticeable increase this year,” adding that this year’s CIFIT has strengthened cooperation with international organizations such as United Nations Trade and Development and the World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies, as well as with the financial sector.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China firmly opposes US measures targeting its maritime, logistics, shipbuilding sectors

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    China on Friday expressed strong opposition to the U.S. measures following its investigation into China’s maritime, logistics and shipbuilding sectors.

    China has repeatedly reaffirmed its views on the Section 301 investigation and presented the non-paper on its position, urging the United States to stop blaming China for its domestic industrial problems, said a spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Commerce.

    As a typical act of unilateralism and protectionism, the measures severely harm the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises, gravely disrupt the stability of global industrial and supply chains, blatantly violate WTO rules, and fundamentally undermine the rules-based multilateral trading system and international economic and trade order, the spokesperson stressed.

    China urged the United States to respect the facts and multilateral rules and stop its wrongdoing, the spokesperson said, noting that China will closely monitor U.S. actions and resolutely take necessary measures to safeguard its legitimate rights and interests.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi’s Southeast Asia tour promotes good-neighborliness, mutually beneficial cooperation, Chinese FM says

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Chinese President Xi Jinping’s just-concluded Southeast Asia tour focused on good-neighborly relations and promoted mutually beneficial cooperation, and achieved a complete success, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Friday.

    Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said during a press briefing that Xi’s trip to Vietnam, Malaysia and Cambodia from Monday to Friday was the first overseas tour of the Chinese head of state this year.

    The tour sent a strong signal that China firmly defends multilateralism and international trade rules, Wang said.

    On Xi’s visit to Vietnam, Wang said that the strategic guidance of the top leaders of the two parties and countries is the biggest advantage of and the most important political guarantee for the development of China-Vietnam relations.

    The leaders of the two parties and countries unanimously confirmed that in accordance with the overarching goals characterized by “six mores,” the two sides will advance the development of their comprehensive strategic cooperation with higher quality and on deeper levels, and accelerate the building of a China-Vietnam community with a shared future that carries strategic significance, he said.

    During Xi’s visit to Vietnam, bilateral railway cooperation has been expanded and upgraded, which particularly demonstrated the determination of the two countries to seek common development, Wang said.

    On Xi’s visit to Malaysia, Wang said its most significant outcome was that the leaders of the two countries elevated China-Malaysia relations to a new height and announced the building of a high-level strategic China-Malaysia community with a shared future.

    This marks another leap in the positioning of the bilateral relationship after China and Malaysia announced the joint building of a China-Malaysia community with a shared future in 2023, Wang noted.

    A highlight of this visit is that the two sides agreed to become a pacesetter for regional cooperation on new quality productive forces, focusing on cutting-edge fields such as digital economy, green economy and artificial intelligence, he added.

    Speaking of Xi’s visit to Cambodia, Wang noted that the highlight was the joint announcement by Xi and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet on elevating the China-Cambodia relationship to an all-weather China-Cambodia community with a shared future in the new era, which marks the first time that China has elevated its bilateral relationship with a Southeast Asian country to an all-weather level.

    Wang said that during Xi’s Southeast Asia tour, the Chinese president pointed out that economic globalization benefits all countries and no country can retreat into isolation.

    Trade wars will undermine the international trading system, the stability of the global economic order and the legitimate interests of all countries in the world, especially developing countries, Xi noted.

    As key members of the Global South, China and neighboring countries should strengthen coordination and cooperation, stand together to combat the undercurrent of camp-based confrontation, jointly oppose unilateralism and counter the law of the jungle where the strong prey on the weak with the Asian values of peace, cooperation, openness and inclusiveness, so as to safeguard the bright prospects of our Asian family, Xi said.

    Xi underscored that despite the headwind of mounting protectionism, China will pursue high-quality development, expand high-standard opening up and share development opportunities with neighboring countries.

    China’s mega market is always open to neighboring countries, and China welcomes more high-quality products from ASEAN members, he added. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China, Cambodia vow to forge all-weather community with shared future in new era

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Chinese President Xi Jinping concluded his state visit to Cambodia on Friday, with both nations agreeing on jointly building an all-weather China-Cambodia community with a shared future in the new era.

    On Thursday, Xi met with Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni, Cambodian People’s Party President and Senate President Samdech Techo Hun Sen, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Queen Mother Norodom Monineath Sihanouk, respectively.

    The two sides exchanged more than 30 bilateral cooperation documents covering such fields as production and supply chain cooperation, artificial intelligence, development assistance, customs inspection and quarantine, as well as health and media.

    Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni at the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, April 17, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Xueren)

    ALL-WEATHER COMMUNITY WITH SHARED FUTURE

    “We must work together to promote the steady and sustained progress in building the China-Cambodia community with a shared future in the new era,” Xi wrote in his signed article published on Thursday in Cambodian media outlets.

    During their talks, Xi and the Cambodian prime minister agreed to build an all-weather China-Cambodia community with a shared future in the new era.

    Chinese President Xi Jinping holds talks with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet at the Peace Palace in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, April 17, 2025. (Xinhua/Liu Weibing)

    Xi called on both sides to build on the momentum, strengthen unity and cooperation, and speed up the implementation of the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative.

    During his meeting with the Cambodian King, Xi expressed confidence in writing a splendid chapter of building an all-weather China-Cambodia community with a shared future in the new era.

    China and Cambodia have always been at the forefront of building a community with a shared future for mankind, said Xi.

    For his part, King Sihamoni said that with the joint efforts of both sides, cooperation in various fields has become increasingly close and the building of a community with a shared future has been continuously deepened.

    While meeting with the Cambodian People’s Party president and Senate president, Xi said that building a China-Cambodia community with a shared future is a choice of history and the people.

    He said that the two sides should keep in mind the well-being of their people and the progress of humanity, strive to set an example for building a community with a shared future for mankind in the course of advancing their respective modernization endeavors, and join hands to become forces for peace, stability and progress in a world undergoing profound transformations unseen in a century.

    UNBREAKABLE IRONCLAD FRIENDSHIP

    Friendship is a term frequently emphasized by Xi during his trip to the country.

    In the signed article, Xi said this visit “feels like going to the home of a good friend.”

    He fondly recalled the historic legacy of the good-neighborly relations between the two nations and the friendly exchange that spans two millennia of their shared history.

    “The great Chinese and Khmer civilizations have flourished together, inspiring each other through centuries,” he wrote.

    Xi also highlighted the two countries’ mutual commitment to friendship and righteousness, emphasizing that the friendship was forged by Cambodia’s King Father Norodom Sihanouk and Chairman Mao Zedong, Premier Zhou Enlai, among the elder generations of Chinese leaders.

    In 2020, Xi presented Queen Mother Norodom Monineath Sihanouk with the Friendship Medal of the People’s Republic of China. This medal, Xi said, embodies “the profound friendship of the Chinese people toward the people of Cambodia.”

    Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Cambodian People’s Party President and Senate President Samdech Techo Hun Sen at the Peace Palace in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, April 17, 2025. (Xinhua/Ding Haitao)

    In his meeting with Hun Sen, the Chinese president said the two sides should deepen practical cooperation across various fields, advance the construction of Cambodia’s Industrial and Technological Corridor and Fish and Rice Corridor, and strengthen collaboration in energy, transportation and other key sectors.

    In view of the headwinds on the international landscape, Xi said unilateralism and hegemonism receive no support of the people, adding that history has shown the unstoppable trend toward a multipolar world, economic globalization, and cultural diversity.

    When meeting with the Queen Mother on Thursday at the Royal Palace, Xi said she is a witness and promoter of the China-Cambodia friendship and has special friendly feelings towards the Chinese people, while Cambodia’s King Father Norodom Sihanouk was a banner of this friendship.

    Under the new circumstances, China and Cambodia should cherish and carry forward this ironclad friendship, endow the China-Cambodia community with a shared future with new connotations of the time, serve the development of their respective countries and the well-being of their people, and make greater contributions to building a community with a shared future with neighboring countries and promoting the building of a community with a shared future for mankind, Xi said when meeting with King Norodom Sihamoni on Thursday.

    King Norodom Sihamoni presented Xi with the National Order of Independence – Grand Collar.

    Xi said that this medal fully demonstrates Cambodia’s high regard for developing China-Cambodia relations and carries the deep friendship of the Cambodian people towards the Chinese people.

    This honor, he said, belongs not only to him personally, but also to all the friendly people who have cultivated and contributed to the friendship between China and Cambodia.

    Chinese Ambassador to Cambodia Wang Wenbin has said in a written interview with Xinhua that as history and reality have both proven, China and Cambodia are good neighbors, good brothers, good friends and good partners who share weal and woe and stand together through thick and thin.

    The friendship between the two countries is not a transactional relationship, nor a stopgap measure, still less a bloc confrontation. It is rooted in the practical needs of the respective national development and rejuvenation, serves the common interests of both nations and peoples, and aligns with the historical trend of solidarity, self-strengthening and shared development among Global South countries, Wang said.

    Chinese President Xi Jinping and Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni walk at the Royal Palace after their meeting in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, April 17, 2025. Xi met with Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni at the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh on Thursday. (Xinhua/Yin Bogu)

    STRIVE TOGETHER, THRIVE TOGETHER

    In his signed article, Xi said that as important members of the big Asian family, China and Cambodia must ride the tide of history and heed the two peoples’ aspirations, and must strive together and thrive together.

    Noting that this is his second visit to Cambodia in nine years, Xi expressed hope that the visit will spearhead progress in building a China-Cambodia community with a shared future.

    For many years, China has been Cambodia’s largest trading partner and top source of investment, and industrial and supply chain cooperation between the two countries has continued to deepen. The entry into force of both the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership and the China-Cambodia Free Trade Agreement has further strengthened the foundation for bilateral trade and investment.

    Thanks to such free trade agreements, premium agricultural products from Cambodia, including banana, mango and longan, are finding their way into Chinese households.

    “China is a trustworthy partner for Cambodia,” said the Cambodian Ministry of Commerce’s Secretary of State and Spokesperson Penn Sovicheat. “Looking forward, our two-way trade volume will continue to rise, undoubtedly.”

    During talks with Hun Manet, Xi urged the two sides to expand mutually beneficial cooperation of higher quality and voiced China’s readiness to share opportunities and seek common development with Cambodia.

    He called on both sides to vigorously promote high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, and continuously enrich the “Diamond Hexagon” cooperation framework, so as to inject new impetus into their respective modernization efforts.

    China encourages more Chinese enterprises to invest in Cambodia, Xi said, adding that it will open its mega-market to Cambodia and import more high-quality agricultural products from the country.

    Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Cambodian People’s Party President and Senate President Samdech Techo Hun Sen at the Peace Palace in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, April 17, 2025. (Xinhua/Ding Haitao)

    In his meeting with Hun Sen, the Chinese president said the two sides should deepen practical cooperation across various fields, advance the construction of Cambodia’s Industrial and Technological Corridor and Fish and Rice Corridor, and strengthen collaboration in energy, transportation and other key sectors.

    In view of the headwinds on the international landscape, Xi said unilateralism and hegemonism receive no support of the people, adding that history has shown the unstoppable trend toward a multipolar world, economic globalization, and cultural diversity.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoyer, Meeks to Introduce Major Russian Sanctions, Ukraine Assistance Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steny H Hoyer (MD-05)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressmen Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05), former Majority Leader, and Representative Gregory W. Meeks (NY-05), Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee introduced a comprehensive bill to support Ukraine and thwart Russia’s ability to wage its illegal war there. Like the Senate bill introduced earlier this month by Senator Lindsey Graham, this legislative package imposes numerous sanctions and other economic measures against Russia should it fail to cease its war of aggression against Ukraine. But this legislation also includes further vital provisions to sustain security assistance to Ukraine for its defense, generate resources for post-war reconstruction, and override presidential actions to terminate existing sanctions without cause. The bill also imposes new sanctions and export control authorities to place additional pressure on Russia, including to curb tankers carrying Russian oil above the international price cap and to ensure dual-use controls on semiconductors and other technologies that could be used to support Russia’s weapons capabilities.

    A section by section of the legislation can be found here. A PDF of the bill can be found here.

    Additional cosponsors of the bill include Representatives William Keating (MA-09), Ranking Member of the Europe Subcommittee; Gerry Connolly (VA-11), Ranking Member of the Oversight and Government Reform Committee, and Lloyd Doggett (TX-37). 

    “The US-led international response to Russia’s illegal, full-scale invasion of Ukraine has isolated Moscow as a global pariah, devastated the Kremlin’s capacity to fund this war, and provided essential support to the Ukrainians fighting for freedom. Now is not the time to ease up on this successful approach nor put pressure solely on the victim, Ukraine. The U.S. must remain committed to shoring up Ukraine’s ability to negotiate a just, acceptable end to this war and to holding Russia – and those supporting its illegal invasion – accountable for as long as Putin’s war of choice continues. This weekend’s missile attack in Sumy that claimed dozens of civilian lives, including children, further demonstrates the barbarity Russia has used to sow terror throughout this war, and the need to impose serious consequences for its atrocities. Make no mistake – Vladimir Putin started this war. He is a bully with no respect for peace, Ukrainian sovereignty, or international norms, and he will only end this illegal war when the world compels him to,” said Ranking Member Meeks.

    “Our allies in Ukraine are on the front lines of freedom – fighting not only for their nations’ sovereignty but also against authoritarianism worldwide. I am glad to join my colleagues in introducing urgently needed legislation that will support our allies in Ukraine and invest in their recovery through tougher sanctions on Russian oil exports, security and military assistance, and dual use export provisions. Importantly, this legislation also includes provisions that will allow the Congress, a coequal branch of government, to advance resolutions of disapproval if the President waves his authority – and assert with our own voice that Ukraine has bipartisan support in the United States,” said Rep. Steny Hoyer. “I thank Ranking Member Greg Meeks for his work to put together comprehensive legislation that reflects our values, strengthens our democracy, and ensures the United States remains on the right side of history. We must not give aid and comfort to our enemy, Russia, and we must remain steadfast in the battle for democracy.”

    “I am co-sponsoring this legislation because it reaffirms the American people’s unwavering commitment to a sovereign, democratic Ukraine,” said Ranking Member Keating. “As Ukraine continues to defend itself against Russia’s brutal full-scale invasion, it is critical that the United States stands firmly by its side—not just militarily, but economically and diplomatically. This legislation includes key provisions from my own bills that aim to support Ukraine across multiple fronts. It provides war risk insurance to ensure the continued flow of international commerce with Ukraine, blocks illegal U.S. technology exports to Iran where they are used to manufacture drones deployed by Russia, and promotes the diversification of Ukraine’s energy supply. Ukraine’s victory requires more than military support – it demands a comprehensive strategy to help rebuild its economy, secure its infrastructure, and restore its independence.”

    “Our friends in Ukraine are fighting for the democratic ideals we share against a war criminal, Vladimir Putin, and the rising threat of authoritarianism globally,” said Ranking Member Connolly. “The American commitment to Ukraine, its sovereignty, and its recovery must be lasting and ironclad. We must stand firmly behind the Ukrainian people by countering Russian disinformation, advocating for multilateral support for Ukraine’s reconstruction, providing additional U.S. security assistance, and implementing crippling sanctions on Russia and its enablers to force Putin to the negotiating table. That’s why this bill includes provisions from my bipartisan legislation to expand sanctions on North Korea for its material support for Russia’s illegal invasion. The war in Ukraine is a battle between dictatorship and democracy. Between freedom and oppression. The United States must remain on the right side of history. Slava Ukraini.” 

    “Pleased to join Rep. Meek’s comprehensive bill, including provisions I authored to stop laundered Russian oil imports and to use frozen Russian assets for compensation to Ukrainians. We support Ukraine and reaffirm our recognition of Putin as a war criminal with sole responsibility for the war. We reject appeasement by Trump and his Republican enablers of Putin, who should bear the ever-mounting costs of his ongoing destruction. The world is watching whether America will remain a beacon of hope, standing with our democratic allies, or drift itself into Russian-style authoritarianism,” said Rep. Doggett.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi’s Southeast Asia tour promotes good-neighborliness, mutually beneficial cooperation: Chinese FM

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

    Xi’s Southeast Asia tour promotes good-neighborliness, mutually beneficial cooperation: Chinese FM

    BEIJING, April 18 — Chinese President Xi Jinping’s just-concluded Southeast Asia tour focused on good-neighborly relations and promoted mutually beneficial cooperation, and achieved a complete success, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Friday.

    Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said during a press briefing that Xi’s trip to Vietnam, Malaysia and Cambodia from Monday to Friday was the first overseas tour of the Chinese head of state this year.

    The tour sent a strong signal that China firmly defends multilateralism and international trade rules, Wang said.

    On Xi’s visit to Vietnam, Wang said that the strategic guidance of the top leaders of the two parties and countries is the biggest advantage of and the most important political guarantee for the development of China-Vietnam relations.

    The leaders of the two parties and countries unanimously confirmed that in accordance with the overarching goals characterized by “six mores,” the two sides will advance the development of their comprehensive strategic cooperation with higher quality and on deeper levels, and accelerate the building of a China-Vietnam community with a shared future that carries strategic significance, he said.

    During Xi’s visit to Vietnam, bilateral railway cooperation has been expanded and upgraded, which particularly demonstrated the determination of the two countries to seek common development, Wang said.

    On Xi’s visit to Malaysia, Wang said its most significant outcome was that the leaders of the two countries elevated China-Malaysia relations to a new height and announced the building of a high-level strategic China-Malaysia community with a shared future.

    This marks another leap in the positioning of the bilateral relationship after China and Malaysia announced the joint building of a China-Malaysia community with a shared future in 2023, Wang noted.

    A highlight of this visit is that the two sides agreed to become a pacesetter for regional cooperation on new quality productive forces, focusing on cutting-edge fields such as digital economy, green economy and artificial intelligence, he added.

    Speaking of Xi’s visit to Cambodia, Wang noted that the highlight was the joint announcement by Xi and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet on elevating the China-Cambodia relationship to an all-weather China-Cambodia community with a shared future in the new era, which marks the first time that China has elevated its bilateral relationship with a Southeast Asian country to an all-weather level.

    Wang said that during Xi’s Southeast Asia tour, the Chinese president pointed out that economic globalization benefits all countries and no country can retreat into isolation.

    Trade wars will undermine the international trading system, the stability of the global economic order and the legitimate interests of all countries in the world, especially developing countries, Xi noted.

    As key members of the Global South, China and neighboring countries should strengthen coordination and cooperation, stand together to combat the undercurrent of camp-based confrontation, jointly oppose unilateralism and counter the law of the jungle where the strong prey on the weak with the Asian values of peace, cooperation, openness and inclusiveness, so as to safeguard the bright prospects of our Asian family, Xi said.

    Xi underscored that despite the headwind of mounting protectionism, China will pursue high-quality development, expand high-standard opening up and share development opportunities with neighboring countries.

    China’s mega market is always open to neighboring countries, and China welcomes more high-quality products from ASEAN members, he added.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Baldwin Introduces Bill to Stand Up for Wisconsin Workers Impacted by Harmful Trade Policies

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and her colleagues introduced a bill to stand back up a successful program that supports American workers who have lost their jobs or suffered reduced hours or wages due to harmful trade policies. The Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) Reauthorization Act of 2025 would bring back the TAA Program, which expired in 2022 and offers a range of services to support displaced workers, including access to skills training, job search and relocation assistance, and extended income support.
    “For years, I’ve fought bad trade deals that were a race to the bottom, shipped Wisconsin jobs overseas, and hollowed out our communities. When Wisconsin workers bear the brunt of unfair trade policies, we have to ensure they have the tools and support that they need to get back on their feet and back in the workforce,” said Senator Baldwin. “I am proud to fight for our workers and ensure they have a helping hand when they are the ones to pay the price from bad trade deals – because at the end of the day, it’s our workers who make our Made in Wisconsin economy move forward.”
    Since its creation in 1974, more than 5 million Americans have benefitted from the TAA Program, with more than 75 percent of participants successfully finding new jobs within six months. Since the program expired, nearly 200,000 workers – including more than 3,200 in Wisconsin – who may qualify for assistance have been unable to receive TAA given the lapse in authorization.   
    The TAA Reauthorization Act of 2025 would reauthorize the TAA Program through 2031 to help ensure American workers have access to the resources they need to transition to new employment opportunities at the same level or higher than their previous job.
    The TAA Reauthorization Act of 2025 is supported by the United Auto Workers (UAW), United Steel Workers (USW), AFL-CIO, and the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM).  
    This bill is led by Senator Gary Peters (D-MI) and also co-sponsored by Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), John Fetterman (D-PA), Kristen Gillibrand (D-NY), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Tina Smith (D-MN), and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Google loses online ad monopoly case. But it’s just one of many antitrust battles against big tech

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rob Nicholls, Senior Research Associate in Media and Communications, University of Sydney

    Tech giant Google has just suffered another legal blow in the United States, losing a landmark antitrust case. This follows on from the company’s loss in a similar case last year.

    Social media giant Meta is also currently embroiled in a landmark legal battle in the US that could change not only how it operates, but how millions of people around the world communicate.

    Hearings in the Meta case commenced earlier this week in a court in Washington DC, after Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg failed to settle the case for US$450 million. Brought by the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the suit alleges Meta broke antitrust laws and illegally secured a monopoly over social media platforms.

    Along with Google and Meta, Amazon and Apple are also currently facing significant antitrust challenges in the US.

    All of these actions are continuing despite major changes in both the FTC and the US Department of Justice as a result of the election of Donald Trump.

    Collectively, these cases represent a substantial regulatory push to examine and potentially curb the market power of big tech. So what are all of these cases about exactly? What are the next steps in each of them? And what might they mean for consumers?

    The cases against Google

    The case Google just lost was related to online advertising.

    The US Department of Justice alleged Google had behaved anticompetitively to monopolise the complex digital advertising technology market. This market facilitates the buying and selling of online ads.

    The US district judge, Leonie Brinkema, agreed Google has a monopoly over the tools used by online publishers to host ad space, and the software that facilitates transactions between online publishers and advertisers.

    In her ruling, Judge Brinkema said Google had “wilfully engaged in a series of anticompetitive acts” which ultimately resulted in it obtaining “monopoly power in the open-web display publisher ad server market”.

    Google has said it will appeal the decision. The Department of Justice will ask the court to require Google to divest parts of its ad tech business when the remedies phase of this trial starts later this month.

    The second case involving Google is related to internet search.

    The Department of Justice argued Google used exclusionary agreements, such as paying Apple billions annually to be the default search engine on iPhones, to lock out competitors.

    In August 2024, a federal judge ruled Google acted illegally to maintain its search monopoly.

    The case has now moved to the remedies phase. A crucial remedies trial is scheduled to begin next week. During this, the court will hear arguments on what actions should be taken against Google. Potential remedies could be significant, with regulators previously suggesting measures such as restrictions on Google’s Android operating system or even forcing the sale of its Chrome browser.

    Google has stated its intention to appeal this ruling as well.

    The case against Meta

    The FTC’s case against Meta alleges the tech giant illegally maintained a monopoly in the market for “personal social networking services”.

    The core of the FTC’s argument is that Meta employed a “buy-or-bury” strategy to eliminate competitive threats.

    This allegedly involved acquiring nascent rivals, most notably Instagram in 2012 and WhatsApp in 2014, specifically to neutralise them before they could challenge Facebook’s dominance.

    The FTC points to internal communications as evidence of anticompetitive intent. These include Mark Zuckerberg’s statement, “It is better to buy than compete”. They also include an internal memo which showed Zuckerberg considered spinning off Instagram in 2018 over concerns about antitrust scrutiny.

    The commission argues Meta’s actions stifled innovation and harmed consumers by limiting choices. It’s seeking to force Meta to divest, or sell off, both Instagram and WhatsApp.

    Meta vigorously defends its actions. It argues it does not hold a monopoly, facing fierce competition from platforms such as TikTok, YouTube and X (formerly Twitter).

    The company contends the acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp were pro-competitive, allowing Meta to invest billions to improve and scale the apps, ultimately benefiting users. A key defence point is that the FTC itself reviewed and approved both deals over a decade ago.

    The trial is expected to last eight weeks.

    The cases against Apple and Amazon

    In March 2024, the Department of Justice, along with several states, sued Apple, alleging it illegally maintains a monopoly in the smartphone market.

    The lawsuit claims Apple uses its control over the iPhone ecosystem to stifle competition and innovation by, for example, degrading messaging quality between iPhones and Android devices and limiting the functionality of third-party digital wallets and smartwatches.

    Apple filed a motion to dismiss the case in August 2024. The litigation is in its early stages and is expected to continue for several years.

    In September 2023, the FTC, joined by numerous states, also sued Amazon.

    The lawsuit alleges the tech giant unlawfully maintains monopoly power in both the market for “online superstores” (where consumers shop) and “online marketplace services” (for third-party sellers).

    The FTC claims Amazon uses interlocking anticompetitive tactics. These include punishing sellers for offering lower prices elsewhere, coercing sellers into using its services, degrading search results with excessive ads, and charging exorbitant seller fees.

    In late 2024, the presiding judge largely denied Amazon’s attempt to dismiss the core federal claims, allowing the case to proceed.

    A trial is currently scheduled for October 2026.

    Major structural changes could come

    Taken together, these lawsuits represent the most significant antitrust enforcement push against major technology firms in the US in decades. They signal a fundamental re-examination of how competition laws apply to fast-evolving digital platforms and ecosystems.

    The outcomes could potentially lead to major structural changes. These changes could include the forced breakup of companies such as Meta, or significant behavioural remedies restricting how these firms operate.

    Regardless of the specific results, the decisions in these cases will likely set crucial legal precedents. In turn, these will profoundly shape the future competitive landscape for technology. They will also likely influence regulation globally, and impact innovation and investment across the digital economy.

    What the cases do not reflect is the change in independence of regulatory bodies in the US, where consistency with White House policy is now paramount. The outcomes will surely test the relationship between Trump and the “tech bros” who’ve, quite literally, been at his side recently.

    Rob Nicholls is a member of the Sydney University Centre for AI, Trust, and Governance and also receives funding from the Australian Research Council.

    – ref. Google loses online ad monopoly case. But it’s just one of many antitrust battles against big tech – https://theconversation.com/google-loses-online-ad-monopoly-case-but-its-just-one-of-many-antitrust-battles-against-big-tech-254602

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI: $SRC Ecosystem Joins Trade Finance Distribution Initiative as Non-Bank Originator to Revolutionize Trade Finance

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TALLINN, Estonia, April 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — $SRC Ecosystem, a product of LGR Global and a pioneering AI and blockchain-powered trade finance solution, is thrilled to announce its membership in the Trade Finance Distribution Initiative (TFDi) as a non-bank originator.

    TFDi, a global consortium of leading banks, non-bank financial institutions, and technology providers, is dedicated to transforming trade finance into a liquid, investable asset class through standardized, technology-driven practices. By joining TFDi, $SRC strengthens its mission to unlock liquidity for SMEs, representing 90% of global businesses, by leveraging its innovative technology to address inefficiencies, liquidity inaccessibility, credit barriers, and geographic limitations in traditional trade finance.

    “Joining TFDi is a landmark achievement for $SRC Ecosystem,” said H.H. Ali Amirliravi, Founder and CEO of $SRC. “Our AI-driven onboarding, blockchain-based real-world asset (RWA) tokenization, and smart contract solutions align perfectly with TFDi’s vision of a transparent, scalable trade finance ecosystem. Together, we can bridge the $2.5 trillion gap and empower SMEs to thrive in global markets.”

    $SRC’s platform revolutionizes trade finance by converting trade assets into liquid, tradable tokens, automating credit scoring and risk assessment with AI, and enabling seamless cross-border settlements. Its digital twin technology provides real-time supply chain monitoring, enhancing transparency and trust. As a TFDi member, $SRC will collaborate with industry leaders to develop standardized practices, connect with institutional investors, and drive innovation in trade asset distribution.

    $SRC Ecosystem brings cutting-edge technology and a bold vision to TFDi, With $SRC’s focus on SME financing through AI and blockchain complements TFDi’s mission to close the trade finance gap and create new opportunities for originators and investors alike.

    With SMEs accounting for 70% of the global workforce yet struggling to access capital, $SRC’s membership in TFDi amplifies its ability to deliver scalable, technology-driven solutions. This partnership positions $SRC at the forefront of the trade finance revolution, fostering collaboration with global stakeholders to make trade finance more accessible and efficient.

    For more information about $SRC Ecosystem and its mission, visit https://linktr.ee/SRCEcosystem. To learn about TFDi, visit www.tradefinancedistribution.com.

    Contact:

    Website: https://lgrglobal.com
    Name: Ali Amirliravi
    Email: ali.amirliravi@lgrglobal.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Colombia: Staff Statement

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    April 18, 2025

    Washington, DC: A staff team has been actively engaging with the Colombian authorities in the context of the ongoing 2025 Article IV consultation, with visits to Bogotá in mid-February and early-April. Ms. Oner and Mr. Ding issued today the following statement:

    The Colombian economy continues to expand with some moderation in key imbalances. After slowing sharply in 2023, the economy expanded by 1.7 percent in 2024 supported by private consumption, reflecting a robust labor market and a gradual recovery in investment. Headline inflation resumed its downward trend in March, reaching 5.1 percent (y/y), underpinned by appropriately tight monetary policy. Meanwhile, the current account deficit narrowed further to 1.8 percent of GDP in 2024, supported by strong tourism and remittances inflows. This was financed with net foreign direct investment inflows, despite net portfolio outflows. International reserves remain adequate, rising to 130 percent of ARA by end-March, supported by the authorities’ reserve accumulation program last year. The banking system remains sound—liquid, adequately capitalized and provisioned—and subject to strong oversight.

    However, public deficits and public debt have risen more than expected. The central government overall fiscal deficit rose to 6.7 percent of GDP in 2024, up from 4.2 percent of GDP in 2023 and 1.1 percentage points of GDP above the authorities’ deficit target in the medium-term fiscal framework. The higher deficit reflected lower-than-projected tax revenues as well as higher than targeted primary expenditures, despite spending adjustments in late-2024. Liquidity constraints contributed to an accumulation of large budgetary backlogs (2.8 percent of GDP) that are in the process of being cleared this year, competing with 2025 budgetary resources. The higher deficits, coupled with a somewhat weaker peso, resulted in gross public debt reaching 61.3 percent at end-2024. As a result, Colombian spreads have risen, especially relative to peers, also impacted by tighter global financial conditions.

    Against the backdrop of elevated and shifting global risks, the Article IV consultation continues on the outlook and on policies to mitigate shocks, while decisively strengthening public finances.

    • Staff continues to engage with the authorities on the implications of rising global trade tensions on the Colombian economic outlook (given knock-on effects including through the commodity price channel as well as the financial and trade channels) and in better understanding the authorities’ policy response to this new environment.
    • Importantly, engagement continues as the authorities work on plans to reduce the fiscal deficit this year and going forward. While the 2025 Financing Plan published in February envisages an improvement in the central government deficit to 5.1 percent of GDP, the authorities are working on the policies underpinning the projected revenue gains as well as the necessary expenditure adjustments to meet the overall fiscal deficit target and bolster resilience in the more shock-prone context.

    The Article IV consultation will continue in the period ahead. We thank the authorities for the open and constructive dialogue, and we look forward to maintaining our close engagement, including in the margins of the IMF-World Bank Spring Meetings in late-April in Washington, DC.

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Jose de Haro

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/04/18/pr25116-colombia-staff-statement

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Joins Coalition Challenging Illegal Firing of FTC Commissioners

    Source: US State of California

    OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today joined a coalition of 21 attorneys general in supporting two commissioners, Rebecca Slaughter and Alvaro Bedoya of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), who are challenging the illegal decision by President Trump to terminate them without cause from the Commission. In today’s amicus brief, the attorneys general highlight the importance of the FTC and assert that the two commissioners’ termination was illegal and violated longstanding Supreme Court precedent.

    “A strong and independent FTC is not a partisan issue, it is an American imperative,” said Attorney General Bonta. “Not only is the President’s illegal firing of the two Commissioners extremely concerning, but it is also illegal. That’s why my fellow attorneys general and I are filing this amicus brief in support of the Commissioners’ reinstatement and to ensure the agency’s ability to fully operate, free from political influence.” 

    For more than 100 years, the FTC has played an important role in consumer protection against scams and fraud, recovering billions of dollars for consumers harmed by unfair and deceptive practices. The agency has also been at the center of important antitrust cases that protect consumers from anticompetitive practices, many of which involved close partnerships with the states, such as the recent lawsuit to stop the merger between Kroger and Albertsons. It was intentionally designed by Congress to be an independent and bipartisan agency, with five commissioners with staggered seven-year terms.

    Last month, President Trump dismissed the two remaining Democratic commissioners of the FTC. Alvaro Bedoya, appointed in 2022, was known for his expertise on digital privacy issues. Rebecca Kelly Slaughter, initially appointed in 2018 and reappointed in 2023, had been an advocate for robust consumer protection measures.

    In the amicus brief, the attorneys general argue that the President violated the Federal Trade Commission Act, which prohibits the removal of FTC commissioners except for “inefficiency, neglect of duty, or malfeasance in office.” The Supreme Court has affirmed the constitutionality of the Act’s removal protections in Humphrey’s Executor v. United States. The removal of the two Commissioners dismantle the bipartisan structure of the agency’s leadership, which ruins the FTC’s independence by allowing the commission to become a partisan agency. This would allow the FTC to become an agency subject to the political whims of the president and unable to fully perform its function independently.

    Attorney General Bonta joins the attorneys general of Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawai’i, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, and Wisconsin, in filing this amicus brief.

    A copy of the amicus brief can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: OptimizeRx Corporation Announces Plan for Additional Board of Directors Refreshment

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WALTHAM, Mass., April 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — OptimizeRx Corp. (the “Company”) (Nasdaq: OPRX), a leading provider of healthcare technology solutions helping life sciences companies reach and engage healthcare professionals (HCPs) and patients, today announced that, as part of OptimizeRx’s ongoing process to refresh and expand its board of directors (the “Board”), it intends to appoint a new independent director to its Board of Directors during the second half of this year. 

    With the appointment of a new independent director in 2025, OptimizeRx will have refreshed its Board, which is currently comprised of five directors, with three new directors since 2020, including Catherine Klema who was added in 2024 and Gregory D. Wasson who was added in 2020. As it begins its process of identifying a new independent director, the Board will be seeking an individual who has relevant expertise and experience that complements the current Board members and furthers the execution of the Company’s strategy and value creation plans.

    “We remain very excited about the progress we are making in executing our strategy to build new market share and drive profitable revenue growth under the leadership of our new CEO Steve Silvestro as we leverage OptimizeRx’s industry leadership position in addressing pharma’s most critical commercial challenges: improving brand visibility in an increasingly digital healthcare environment, reducing script abandonment rates, enhancing interoperability at the point of care, and supporting the shift toward complex specialty medications,” stated Lynn Vos, Chairperson of OptimizeRx’s Board of Directors. “As we strategically plan for our next phase of growth, we are committed to recruiting new independent and highly-qualified directors who have perspectives, insights, experiences, and skills that expand the depth and breadth of our Board and contribute to our ability to execute our value creation plans and support key initiatives.”

    About OptimizeRx

    OptimizeRx is a leading healthcare technology company that’s redefining how life science brands connect with patients and healthcare providers. Our platform combines innovative AI-driven tools like the Dynamic Audience Activation Platform (DAAP) and Micro-Neighborhood Targeting (MNT) to deliver timely, relevant, and hyper-local engagement. By bridging the gap between HCP and DTC strategies, we empower brands to create synchronized marketing solutions that drive faster treatment decisions and improved patient outcomes.

    Our commitment to privacy-safe, patient-centric technology ensures that every interaction is designed to make a meaningful impact, delivering life-changing therapies to the right patients at the right time. Headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts, OptimizeRx partners with some of the world’s leading pharmaceutical and life sciences companies to transform the healthcare landscape and create a healthier future for all.

    Important Cautions Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “anticipates”, “believes”, “estimates”, “expects”, “forecasts”, “intends”, “plans”, “projects”, “targets”, “designed”, “could”, “may”, “should”, “will” or other similar words and expressions are intended to identify these forward-looking statements. All statements in this press release that reflect the Company’s expectations, assumptions, projections, beliefs or opinions about the future, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements relating to OptimizeRx’s commitment to recruiting independent and highly-qualified directors who have perspectives, insights, experiences, and skills that expand the depth and breadth of the Board and the Company’s plans to build new market share and drive profitable revenue growth under the leadership of its new CEO Steve Silvestro and other statements relating to future performance, plans, and expectations. Because such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based upon the Company’s current expectations and involve assumptions regarding the Company’s business, the economy, and other future conditions that may never materialize or may prove to be incorrect. Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties, some of which cannot be predicted, or quantified. Actual results and the timing of events could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements as a result of various risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to, the Company’s ability to identify and appoint a new independent director, the effect of government regulation, seasonal trends, dependence on a concentrated group of customers, cybersecurity incidents that could disrupt operations, the ability to keep pace with growing and evolving technology, the ability to maintain contracts with electronic prescription platforms and electronic health records networks, competition, and other factors discussed in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, and in other filings the Company has made and may make with the SEC in the future. One should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which they were made. The Company undertakes no obligation to update such statements to reflect events that occur or circumstances that exist after the date on which they were made, except as may be required by law.

    OptimizeRx Contact 
    Andy D’Silva, SVP Corporate Finance   
    adsilva@optimizerx.com
      
    Investor Relations Contact
    Sandya von der Weid
    LifeSci Advisors, LLC
    svonderweid@lifesciadvisors.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Baldwin Successfully Pushes Trump to Punish China for Cheating American Workers and Shipbuilders

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) released the following statement after the Trump administration announced penalties against China for its unfair trade practices in the shipbuilding industry that undermine American workers. The penalties come as a result of the investigation Baldwin backed under the Biden Administration into China’s maritime, logistics, and shipbuilding sectors. That United States Trade Representative (USTR) investigation showed China’s unfair, targeted efforts to dominate the shipbuilding and maritime industry and paved the way for the incoming administration to implement remedies and level the playing field.

    “For nearly two centuries, Wisconsin workers have built world-class ships and their parts that power our Navy and make sure businesses’ products can get in the hands of their customers. Wisconsin workers and shipbuilding companies can compete with anyone in the world – but they need a level playing field to do it. And, as I have been saying for years, China has gotten away with cheating the system and undermining our workers – and it’s long overdue we stand up to them,” said Senator Baldwin. “I was proud to stand with workers to launch this investigation and am proud to have now pushed two presidents to do right by these workers. This is a big step forward in cracking down on China’s unfair trade practices, supporting American workers and building more ships here at home, and keeping our country safe.”

    The penalties include new measures to combat China’s cheating, including fees for Chinese ships that dock at U.S. ports, based on how big they are and how often they visit. The fees will increase incrementally over the following years. There will also be extra charges for companies using ships built in China, again based on the size of the ship or how many containers they carry, with the fees increasing over time. To encourage the use of ships built in the U.S., foreign-built car carriers will have to pay additional fees based on how much they can carry. A second round of changes, which won’t start for three years, will aim to promote U.S.-built ships that carry liquefied natural gas (LNG) and will place limits on using foreign ships for LNG transport. Senator Baldwin will continue to work with the administration and stakeholders to ensure that these trade remedies are adjusted and updated as needed.

    Last March, Senator Baldwin joined United Steelworkers and other labor leaders in support of the American shipbuilding industry and to call on the United States Trade Representative to conduct a full investigation. In April 2024, the USTR announced they were heeding that call and launching an investigation into China, concluding in a report that China targeted dominance in these sectors is unreasonable and burdens or restricts U.S. commerce, and is therefore “actionable” under Section 301. This report laid the groundwork for the Trump Administration to impose appropriate penalties on China to support American workers. In January, Senator Baldwin applauded this USTR report outlining China’s unfair trade practices to undercut American shipbuilding and called on the President to act. In February, Baldwin led a group of her colleagues in calling on the Trump Administration to act on the results of the investigation and take immediate action to level the playing field for American workers, businesses, and national security.

    Senator Baldwin has long championed Buy America policies to support American businesses and workers. She fought to advance her American Made Navy Act in last year’s annual defense legislation, which would ensure by 2033 any new Navy ship purchased uses 100% domestically produced materials, like propulsion systems, shipboard components, couplings, shafts, support bearings, and more. She also worked to include strong Buy America standards in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Zeo Energy Corp. Receives Nasdaq Notice on Late Filing of its Form 10-K

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla., April 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Zeo Energy Corp. (Nasdaq: ZEO) (“Zeo Energy” or the “Company”), announced today that, as expected, it received a notice (the “Notice”) from Nasdaq on April 17, 2025, notifying the Company that it is not in compliance with the periodic filing requirements for continued listing set forth in Nasdaq Listing Rule 5250(c)(1) because the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 (“Fiscal Year 2024 10-K”) was not filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) by the required due date of March 31, 2025.

    This Notice received from Nasdaq has no immediate effect on the listing or trading of the Company’s shares. Nasdaq has provided the Company with 60 calendar days, until Sunday, June 16, 2025, to submit a plan to regain compliance. If Nasdaq accepts the Company’s plan, then Nasdaq may grant the Company an exception until October 13, 2025 to regain compliance with the Nasdaq Listing Rules.

    The Company continues to work diligently to complete its Fiscal Year 2024 10-K, with subsequent periodic filings made on-time, after which the Company anticipates maintaining compliance with its SEC reporting obligations.

    This announcement is made in compliance with Nasdaq Listing Rule 5810(b), which requires prompt disclosure of receipt of a deficiency notification.

    About Zeo Energy Corp.

    Zeo Energy Corp. is a Florida-based regional provider of residential solar, distributed energy, and energy efficiency solutions. Zeo Energy focuses on high-growth markets with limited competitive saturation. With its differentiated sales approach and vertically integrated offerings, Zeo Energy, through its Sunergy business, serves customers who desire to reduce high energy bills and contribute to a more sustainable future. For more information on Zeo Energy Corp., please visit www.zeoenergy.com.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and Section 21E of the Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, that are based on beliefs and assumptions and on information currently available to the Company. Such statements may include, but are not limited to, statements that refer to projections, forecasts, or other characterizations of future events or circumstances, including any underlying assumptions. The words “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “goal,” “seek,” “believe,” “project,” “estimate,” “expect,” “strategy,” “future,” “likely,” “may,” “should,” “will,” and similar references to future periods may identify forward-looking statements, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements may include, for example, statements about the filing of the Fiscal Year 2024 10-K, maintaining compliance with SEC reporting obligations and regaining compliance with Nasdaq listing rules. These forward-looking statements are based on information available as of the date of this news release, and current expectations, forecasts, and assumptions, and involve a number of judgments, risks, and uncertainties. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing the Company’s views as of any subsequent date, and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update such forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date they were made, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as may be required under applicable securities laws. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. As a result of a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties, the Company’s actual results or performance may be materially different from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Some factors that could cause actual results to differ include: (i) the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against the Company or others; (ii) the Company’s success in retaining or recruiting, or changes required in, its officers, key employees, or directors; (iii) the Company’s ability to maintain the listing of its common stock and warrants on Nasdaq; (iv) limited liquidity and trading of the Company’s securities; (v) geopolitical risk and changes in applicable laws or regulations; (vi) the possibility that the Company may be adversely affected by other economic, business, and/or competitive factors; (vii) operational risk; (viii) litigation and regulatory enforcement risks, including the diversion of management time and attention and the additional costs and demands on the Company’s resources; and (ix) other risks and uncertainties, including those included under the heading “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC for the year ended December 31, 2023 and in its subsequent periodic reports and other filings with the SEC.

    In light of the significant uncertainties in these forward-looking statements, you should not regard these statements as a representation or warranty by the Company, its respective directors, officers or employees or any other person that the Company will achieve its objectives and plans in any specified time frame, or at all. The forward-looking statements in this news release represent the views of the Company as of the date of this news release. Subsequent events and developments may cause that view to change. However, while the Company may elect to update these forward-looking statements at some point in the future, there is no current intention to do so, except to the extent required by applicable law. You should, therefore, not rely on these forward-looking statements as representing the views of the Company as of any date subsequent to the date of this news release.

    Zeo Energy Corp. Contacts

    For Investors:
    Tom Colton and Greg Bradbury
    Gateway Group
    ZEO@gateway-grp.com

    For Media:
    Zach Kadletz
    Gateway Group
    ZEO@gateway-grp.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: New Electronics Component Manufacturing Scheme to Deepen India’s Role in Global Value Chains: Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw

    Source: Government of India

    New Electronics Component Manufacturing Scheme to Deepen India’s Role in Global Value Chains: Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw

    Electronics production has increased five times, reaching Rs. 11 lakh crore, while exports have grown six-fold, crossing Rs. 3.25 lakh crore : Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw

    Global confidence in India’s electronics manufacturing surges with rising product quality and stronger IP safeguards

    Union Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw inaugurates VVDN’s largest SMT line and Mechanical Innovation Park in Manesar

    Posted On: 18 APR 2025 7:57PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology, Railways, and Information & Broadcasting, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, today highlighted the significant strides India has made in electronics manufacturing in the last 10  years under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. Speaking at VVDN industry facility in Manesar, Haryana, the Minister highlighted that the New Electronics Component Manufacturing Scheme, recently cleared by Cabinet, further strengthens India’s position in global electronics supply chains. The Minister also said that the scheme guidelines will be issued soon.

    In a landmark development for India’s electronics manufacturing landscape, Union Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw also inaugurated an VVDN Technologies’ state-of-the-art Surface Mount Technology (SMT) Line and Mechanical Innovation Park at the company’s Global Innovation Park in Manesar, Haryana.

    Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said that electronics manufacturing in India has grown fivefold in the last six years, with the total value crossing ₹11 lakh crore. Exports have seen a sixfold increase over the last decade and now exceed ₹3.25 lakh crore. Terming this as one of the biggest success stories of the ‘Make in India’ initiative, Shri Vaishnaw said that the sector now employs over 25 lakh people and is poised for exponential growth in the coming years.

    During his visit to the facility, Shri Vaishnaw noted the growing strength of India’s design ecosystem, pointing out that the location hosts a team of over 5,000 engineers working on complex, AI-embedded systems. “India now has the talent not only to manufacture but also to design sophisticated electronic products,” the Minister said, adding that this gives the country a significant edge over others lacking in design capability. Union Minister also interacted with the engineers and workers of the facility and urged them to continue to work towards boosting the electronics manufacturing ecosystem in India.

    He also emphasized the importance of indigenously produced tools, stating that India is now designing and manufacturing design tools domestically—an important leap in achieving technological self-reliance. Citing the recent deployment of 6,000 AI servers by VVDN, Shri Vaishnaw termed it a milestone that showcases India’s hardware capability.

    The Minister reiterated India’s commitment to building a trusted electronics manufacturing base, anchored in the protection of intellectual property rights, design-led innovation, and diverse rare earth supply chains. He also shared details of a three-tier skilling strategy, which includes basic training, on-site product-specific training, and industry-aligned university courses—especially relevant for high capital-expenditure skills in the sector.

    New Electronics Component Manufacturing Scheme

    Shri Vaishnaw also made a key announcement about the recent Cabinet approval of the Electronics Component Manufacturing Scheme said that while active components are covered under the National Semiconductor Mission, passive components will be supported through this scheme. Together, they will complete the bouquet of electronics component manufacturing—making India truly self-reliant, he said.

    Union Minister added that the scheme is expected to significantly boost domestic production, create jobs, and reduce import dependency. He expressed confidence that India’s integrated approach to design, manufacturing, skilling, and trusted innovation will propel the nation to a leadership position in the global electronics landscape.

    About the Facilities

    The newly inaugurated SMT Line is VVDN’s largest to date and supports PCB sizes up to 850mm x 560mm with an industry-leading speed of 250,000 components per hour. It will enable the mass production of high-tech products such as AI servers, networking devices, and motherboards.

    Meanwhile, the Mechanical Innovation Park, spanning 1,50,000 sq. ft., will house facilities for tool-making, CNC, EDM, injection molding, and more creating a fully integrated design-to-production ecosystem.These facilities are expected to generate over 3,000 new skilled jobs, furthering the government’s vision for employment generation and high-tech skilling.

    VVDN is an Indian company focused on design-led manufacturing with full backward integration. With 11 R&D centres and a team of over 5,000 engineers, VVDN is a leader in developing next-generation solutions such as AI servers, EV products, cameras, Wi-Fi 7 access points, and more. During the event, the  Minister also visited VVDN’s cutting-edge R&D Labs including the Server R&D Lab, 5G R&D Lab and Video Image Tuning Lab, along with the server and camera production lines.

    The inauguration event serves as a testament to the synergy between progressive government policy and dynamic private sector initiatives. Under Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s leadership, India has created an enabling environment marked by improved ease of doing business, reliable power supply world-class infrastructure, and strong institutional support.

    ****

    Dharmendra Tewari/ Navin Sreejith

    (Release ID: 2122770) Visitor Counter : 23

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: XRP News: XploraDEX Presale Nears Deadline as XRP’s First AI Decentralized Exchange Prepares for Launch

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ZURICH, Switzerland, April 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The final countdown is officially on. With only 3 days remaining until the XploraDEX $XPL Presale closes, the race is heating up fast. Traders across the XRPL ecosystem are moving swiftly to secure what’s left of the allocation before the window slams shut. The presale has already crossed the 80% mark, and with demand at an all-time high, the remaining supply is vanishing by the hour.

    XploraDEX isn’t just another token launch, it’s the dawn of a new trading experience for XRP users. As the first AI-powered decentralized exchange built on XRPL, XploraDEX brings intelligent automation, real-time data analysis, and predictive execution to the DeFi landscape. It’s a major leap forward for traders who demand speed, strategy, and smarter tools.

    JOIN $XPL Presale Now

    Designed from the ground up with machine learning integration, XploraDEX empowers users to:

    • Analyze markets in real-time with AI-generated trade signals
    • Automate strategies based on personal trading preferences and market behavior
    • Access tailored volatility alerts and risk assessments
    • Participate in a fully decentralized launchpad and staking program

    The $XPL token is the engine powering this innovation. Holding $XPL gives users access to the platform’s core features, including advanced analytics, trading fee discounts, early staking pools, and governance rights. It’s not just a utility—it’s a passport to the most sophisticated trading protocol on XRPL.

    Since the start of the presale, momentum has accelerated exponentially. Whale wallets have steadily accumulated significant $XPL positions, and community participation has surged across Twitter and Telegram. As the final 72-hour countdown begins, latecomers are racing to claim their spot before launch.

    Participate in $XPL Presale

    Once the presale concludes, $XPL will be listed on XRPL-based DEXs at a higher valuation. With platform deployment, staking rewards, and AI dashboard features rolling out in phases shortly after, early participants will be the first to benefit from the full capabilities of the ecosystem.

    This is more than a presale—it’s your opportunity to be early to the most advanced DeFi project to launch on XRPL. XploraDEX has the tech, the timing, and the traction. And now, with 3 days left, the door is closing fast.

    If you’re reading this, you still have a chance. But in 72 hours, this chapter will be over—and those who acted will be the ones shaping what comes next.

    Join the $XPL Presale While You Still Can: https://sale.xploradex.io

    Stay connected and Join the XploraDEX AI Revolution

    Website | $XPL Token Presale | X | Telegram

    Contact:
    Oliver Muller
    oliver@xploradex.io
    contact@xploradex.io

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by the XploraDEX. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.

    Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.

    Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2eed35d3-2094-4423-8621-972b9b5fa255

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: AMMO, Inc. Completes Sale of Ammunition Manufacturing Assets to Olin Winchester

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Sale Transitions AMMO to an E-commerce-Focused Company Accelerating Growth Through GunBroker.com, the Largest Online Marketplace for Firearms, Hunting and Related Products

    Sale Allows Company to Center its Attention on Innovation, Profitability, and Long-term Value Creation

    SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., April 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — AMMO, Inc. (Nasdaq: POWW, POWWP) (“AMMO,” “we,” “us,” “our” or the “Company”), the owner of GunBroker.com, the largest online marketplace for firearms, hunting, and related products, today announced it has completed the sale of its ammunition manufacturing assets to Olin Winchester, LLC (“Olin Winchester”), a subsidiary of Olin Corporation.

    This transaction represents a pivotal milestone in AMMO’s transformation into a high-margin, tech-enabled e-commerce company centered around GunBroker.com. The Company intends to focus resources on scaling its digital platform, improving user experience, and unlocking additional value for shareholders.

    “This transaction marks a defining moment in AMMO’s evolution,” said Christos Tsentas, Chair of the Board’s M&A Committee. “After a thorough strategic review and collaboration with our financial and legal advisors, we are confident this sale will unlock significant value and enable AMMO to accelerate growth as a pure-play e-commerce platform. GunBroker.com is already the leader in the online firearms marketplace, and we expect this streamlined focus will allow us to double down on innovation, user engagement, and long-term profitability.”

    GunBroker.com: Positioned for Scalable Growth

    GunBroker.com becomes AMMO’s remaining core business and a high-potential growth engine. Recent initiatives—including enhancements to the checkout experience and expanded offerings in outdoor gear and experiences—have led to improved customer engagement and conversion. The Company anticipates that a simplified business structure and a fortified balance sheet will further fuel targeted investments, operational efficiency, and disciplined capital allocation.

    Transaction Details

    As part of the transaction, Olin Winchester acquired AMMO’s 185,000-square-foot manufacturing and ballistic testing facility in Manitowoc, Wisconsin.

    Entering into the transaction, which was unanimously approved by AMMO’s Board and its M&A Committee, was the culmination of a comprehensive strategic review process beginning in February 2024, during which the Company worked with a team of independent advisors to engage with an array of prospective buyers. That comprehensive strategic review process included: establishing an M&A Committee comprised solely of independent directors; evaluating multiple investment banks to assist the Board and the M&A Committee, which ultimately led to the engagement of Baird; pursuing a thorough and competitive sale process that involved 15 potential buyers; selecting Lake Street Capital Markets (“Lake Street”), from among a group of firms evaluated by the M&A Committee, to conduct an independent analysis of the transaction in connection with the rendering of a fairness opinion to the Board, which opinion was sought from Lake Street regardless of whether its ultimate conclusions were favorable or unfavorable; Lake Street’s determination that the transaction was fair from a financial point of view, and that it fell within a range of possible values; and engaging in a thorough and deliberate evaluation process by the M&A Committee and the entire Board, which considered the merits and risks of the multiple bids and the proposed transaction with Olin Winchester, as well as strategic alternatives to the proposed transaction with Olin Winchester.

    As previously disclosed, we believe the Company has significant opportunities to grow and scale GunBroker.com, as the e-commerce space for the firearms and shooting sports industries continues expanding. Among other reasons, as a result of higher supply costs relative to our larger manufacturing competitors, challenges in securing larger government contracts due to our manufacturing capacity, industry headwinds, and historical operating losses in the ammunition segment diverting our resources from growth opportunities, we believe the sale of the ammunition manufacturing assets will enable us to capitalize on e-commerce growth opportunities, while allowing the Company to become a more focused, streamlined and profitable organization. Moving forward, the Company expects to focus on growing and prioritizing the profitable, high-margin GunBroker.com marketplace. The successful completion of this transaction is expected to further simplify the business, while reinforcing AMMO’s cash position to support expansion and thoughtful capital allocation. The Company expects to use the proceeds from the transaction for general corporate purposes, although the Board may evaluate other uses in the future when and as appropriate.

    AMMO was advised by Baird and represented by Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP in connection with the transaction. Lake Street Capital Markets provided a fairness opinion to the Board.

    Rebranding and Next Phase

    In conjunction with the sale, AMMO is beginning a formal rebranding process, including a corporate name change to Outdoor Holding Company, to better reflect its e-commerce identity and broader vision in the outdoor lifestyle and sporting goods sectors.

    Additional Company Updates

    Nasdaq Listing Compliance

    As disclosed in the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on February 25, 2025, the Company received an additional deficiency notification letter from The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC (“Nasdaq”), requiring the Company to submit an updated plan by no later than March 6, 2025 concerning its efforts to regain compliance with Nasdaq’s listing requirements. The Company timely submitted the updated compliance plan to Nasdaq and will provide additional details to investors as appropriate.

    About GunBroker

    GunBroker is the largest online marketplace dedicated to firearms, hunting, shooting and related products. Third-party sellers list items on the site and Federal and state laws govern the sale of firearms and other restricted items. Ownership policies and regulations are followed using licensed firearms dealers as transfer agents. Launched in 1999, the GunBroker.com website is an informative, secure and safe way to buy and sell firearms, ammunition, shooting accessories, and outdoor gear online. GunBroker promotes responsible ownership of guns and firearms. For more information, visit: www.gunbroker.com.

    Cautionary Statement Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

    Statements contained in this press release that are not statements of historical fact are considered “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the federal securities laws and are presented pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as “target,” “believe,” “expect,” “will,” “may,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “would,” “positioned,” “future,” and other similar expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters. These forward-looking statements include, among others, statements about the expected benefits of the transaction and statements about the Company’s plans, objectives, expectations and intentions for its business following consummation of the transaction. These statements are based only on Company management’s current beliefs, expectations and assumptions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of the Company’s control. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, risks associated with pending or threatened litigation related to the transaction; unexpected costs, charges or expenses resulting from the transaction; risks related to disruption of management time from ongoing business operations due to the transaction; failure to realize the benefits expected from the transaction; and effects of the completion of the transaction on the ability of the parties to retain customers and retain and hire key personnel and maintain relationships with their counterparties, and on their operating results and businesses generally. Therefore, investors should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements and should review the risks and uncertainties described under the caption “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on June 13, 2024, and additional disclosures the Company makes in its other filings with the SEC, which are available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this Current Report on Form 8-K, and except as provided by law, the Company expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to any update forward-looking statements.

    Contacts

    For media:
    Longacre Square Partners
    Rebecca Kral
    AMMO@longacresquare.com

    For investors:
    CoreIR
    Phone: (212) 655-0924
    IR@ammo-inc.com

    Source: AMMO, Inc.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: United States Files Complaint Against Barco Uniforms and Its Suppliers, Alleging False Claims Act Violations in Connection with Underpaid Customs Duties

    Source: United States Attorneys General 1

    The United States has filed a complaint against Barco Uniforms Inc. (Barco), Kenny Chan, David Chan, and companies operated and controlled by the Chans, alleging that they violated the False Claims Act by knowingly and improperly underpaying customs duties owed on imported apparel. Barco sells apparel, including uniforms, to restaurants and health care providers, among others. Kenny and David Chan operate various companies that supply Barco with apparel manufactured overseas, including in the People’s Republic of China (PRC).

    “Those who import and sell foreign-made goods in the United States must comply with all trade laws,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Yaakov M. Roth of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “The Department will hold accountable parties who evade or underpay duties owed on imported merchandise.”

    “We will not allow parties engaging in fraudulent schemes to underpay rightful customs duties to profit at the expense of the American public,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith for the Eastern District of California.

    “CBP is proud of the investigative work and analysis done on this case and will continue to work collaboratively with interagency stakeholders to safeguard our nation’s economic security,” said Director of Field Operations David Salazar of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) San Francisco Field Office.

    To import merchandise into the United States, the party making the entry must declare, among other things, the value of the goods, whether the goods are subject to duties, the applicable duty rate, and the amount of duties owed. CBP relies on these representations to levy and collect duties on imported merchandise. A commercial invoice reflecting the value of the goods is required to support the declarations submitted to CBP.

    The United States’ complaint alleges that the defendants conspired to knowingly and improperly avoid or decrease the payment of customs duties by undervaluing imported garments Barco purchased from foreign suppliers. Among other things, the government’s complaint alleges that the defendants used a double-invoicing scheme featuring false entry summaries presented to CBP that undervalued imported goods purchased by Barco, thereby reducing the duties paid on the merchandise. The government further contends that the defendants continued to underpay customs duties even after a third-party auditor advised Barco of risks associated with the underpayment of duties and recommended that Barco “double-check” duty calculations underlying prices that Barco agreed to with its foreign suppliers. In addition to Barco, Kenny Chan, and David Chan, the government’s complaint asserts claims against the following entities operated and controlled by the Chans: Able Allied Limited, Nathan Global Direct Inc., J&K Garment Inc., Mega Goodwill Ltd., JS Garment Co., and Superway Import & Export Inc. 

    The lawsuit was originally filed under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act by Toni Lee, the former director of product commercialization at Barco Uniforms. The act permits private parties to file suit on behalf of the United States for false claims and to share in any recovery. The act also permits the United States to intervene in and take over responsibility for such an action, as it has done in this case.

    Senior Trial Counsel Elspeth A. England of the Civil Division’s Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorney David E. Thiess for the Eastern District of California are handling the matter, with assistance provided by CBP and Homeland Security Investigations. The case is United States ex rel. Lee v. Barco Uniforms Inc., et al., No. 2:16-CV-1805 in U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of California.

    The claims asserted by the United States are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Judge Finds Alexandria Man Guilty of Child Pornography Offenses

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A federal judge convicted an Alexandria man, who worked for the Department of Commerce, yesterday on charges of receipt and possession of child sexual abuse material (CSAM).

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Rafferty Daniel Kelly, 40, worked for the Patent and Trademark Office. In March 2022, a federal CSAM investigation involving an Internet-based, peer-to-peer file sharing service led federal agents to execute a search warrant at Kelly’s home where they seized multiple devices. A review of those devices revealed that over a period of at least two years Kelly had downloaded and stored over 50,000 of images of CSAM and child erotica, including images of infants and prepubescent children. Kelly also possessed a handbook on how to groom children.

    At the end of the bench trial, U.S. District Judge Michael S. Nachmanoff found Kelly guilty of one count of receipt of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography. Kelly is scheduled to be sentenced on July 24 and faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and up to 40 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; and Sean Ryan, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Washington Field Office’s Criminal and Cyber Division, made the announcement after Judge Nachmanoff returned the verdict.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Vanessa K. Strobbe for the Eastern District of Virginia and Trial Attorney Nadia Prinz for the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation & Obscenity Section are prosecuting the case.

    This case was investigated by the FBI Washington Field Office’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force. The task force is composed of FBI agents, along with other federal agents and detectives from northern Virginia and the District of Columbia. The task force is charged with investigating and bringing federal charges against individuals engaged in the exploitation of children and those engaged in human trafficking.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:24-cr-246.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Toobit Launches Convert, Now Offers Instant Zero-Fee Crypto Swaps

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    GEORGE TOWN, Cayman Islands, April 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Award-winning digital asset trading platform Toobit today announces the launch of Toobit Convert, a new crypoasset management tool that allows users to instantly swap between supported cryptocurrencies—without trading fees or the need to place manual buy or sell orders.

    With Toobit Convert, traders can exchange one asset for another at real-time market rates, simplifying portfolio management and enabling fast responses to market shifts. Unlike traditional spot trading, there’s no need to deal with order books, set price limits, or use trading strategies. Toobit Convert offers a clean, easy-to-use interface that provides zero slippage for supported token amounts, with prices coming from several market makers, so traders always get the most competitive rates.

    Traders can take 3 simple steps to Convert their crypto

    1. Choose crypto:
      Pick cryptocurrency to convert from, and the one to get in return.
    2. Get a live quote:
      Toobit shows real-time prices based on the current market. This quote is valid for a few seconds, and is refreshed in real-time.
    3. Confirm and convert:
      Once the price is suitable, just click to confirm. The swap happens instantly, and the converted crypto shows up in the account right away.

    “Whether you’re rebalancing your portfolio or moving between coins, Toobit Convert takes the friction out of the process,” said Mike Williams, Chief Communication Officer at Toobit. “We’re focused on building intuitive tools that enhance the user experience without compromising speed, security, or transparency.”

    Available now on both desktop and the Toobit trading app, Toobit Convert supports a wide range of digital assets, with minimum and maximum limits clearly displayed before each conversion. Most transactions are completed instantly, and users can track their conversion history directly from the Convert page.

    With Convert, new users can now swap assets in seconds with no extra charges. Experienced traders can also use Convert to move fast in changing markets or explore new options with ease. Whether adjusting a portfolio or dealing with price swings, Toobit Convert is a quick, easy tool for efficient cryptoasset management.

    This launch follows Toobit’s growing suite of user-focused tools, including Toobit Earn, which offers staking rewards of up to 250,000 USDT.

    For more details, visit the Toobit Convert page: https://www.toobit.com/en-US/convert

    About Toobit

    Toobit is where the future of crypto trading unfolds—an award-winning cryptocurrency derivatives exchange built for those who thrive exploring new frontiers. With deep liquidity and cutting-edge technology, Toobit empowers traders worldwide to navigate the digital asset markets with confidence. We offer a fair, secure, seamless, and transparent trading experience, ensuring every trade is an opportunity to discover what’s next.

    For more information about Toobit, visit: Website | X | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Instagram

    Contact: Davin C.

    Email: market@toobit.com

    Website: www.toobit.com

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by the Toobit. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.
    Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/42f03f51-5920-4091-8fec-8bea7225af12

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Start Trading on BexBack: No KYC, 100x Leverage, $50 Welcome Bonus & 100% Deposit Match!

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, April 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As Bitcoin continues to trade below $85,000 and analysts predict that the crypto market will remain volatile, holding spot positions may not generate short-term profits. Recent economic shifts, including policy announcements such as President Trump’s tariff decisions, have brought some stabilization, but the volatility remains. For investors seeking to maximize returns in these uncertain times, BexBack Exchange offers a powerful solution. With 100x leverage, a 100% deposit bonus, and a $50 welcome bonus for new users, BexBack empowers traders to seize market opportunities. And with no KYC requirements, it provides a seamless and efficient way to trade.

    What Is 100x Leverage and How Does It Work?

    Simply put, 100x leverage allows you to open larger trading positions with less capital. For example:

    Suppose the Bitcoin price is $60,000 that day, and you open a long contract with 1 BTC. After using 100x leverage, the transaction amount is equivalent to 100 BTC.

    One day later, if the price rises to $63,000, your profit will be (63,000 – 60,000) * 100 BTC / 60,000 = 5 BTC, a yield of up to 500%.

    With BexBack’s deposit bonus

    BexBack offers a 100% deposit bonus. If the initial investment is 2 BTC, the profit will increase to 10 BTC, and the return on investment will double to 1000%.

    Note: Although leveraged trading can magnify profits, you also need to be wary of liquidation risks.

    How Does the 100% Deposit Bonus Work?
    The deposit bonus from BexBack cannot be directly withdrawn but can be used to open larger positions and increase potential profits. Additionally, during significant market fluctuations, the bonus can serve as extra margin, effectively reducing the risk of liquidation.

    About BexBack?

    BexBack is a leading cryptocurrency derivatives platform that offers 100x leverage on BTC, ETH, ADA, SOL, XRP, and more than 50 other major altcoins. Headquartered in Singapore, with offices in Hong Kong, Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Argentina, BexBack holds a US MSB (Money Services Business) license and is trusted by over 500,000 traders worldwide. The platform accepts users from the United States, Canada, and Europe, and offers no deposit fees, along with exceptional customer service, including 24/7 support.

    Why recommend BexBack?

    No KYC Required: Start trading immediately without complex identity verification.

    100% Deposit Bonus: Double your funds, double your profits.

    High-Leverage Trading: Offers up to 100x leverage, maximizing investors’ capital efficiency.

    Demo Account: Comes with 10 BTC in virtual funds, ideal for beginners to practice risk-free trading.

    Comprehensive Trading Options: Feature-rich trading available via Web and mobile applications.

    Convenient Operation: No slippage, no spread, and fast, precise trade execution.

    Global User Support: Enjoy 24/7 customer service, no matter where you are.

    Lucrative Affiliate Rewards: Earn up to 50% commission, perfect for promoters.

    Take Action Now—Don’t Miss Another Opportunity!

    If you missed the previous crypto bull run, this could be your chance. With BexBack’s 100x leverage and 100% deposit bonus and $50 bonus for new users (complete one trade within one week of registration), you can be a winner in the new bull run.

    Sign up on BexBack now, claim your exclusive bonus and start accumulating more BTC today!

    Website: www.bexback.com

    Contact: business@bexback.com

    Contact:
    Amanda
    business@bexback.com

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by BexBack The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.
    Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.
    Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f765bfe6-e6f9-4867-ab6f-2fef3da5b961

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/85bc3b21-4e6a-4d8f-a9e2-da37f964315e

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b2dfa773-8126-4959-a62a-21fa516242e3

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d146fdfe-4b9f-4807-959a-87ca088dfb43

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Magaziner Joins Amicus Briefs Against Illegal Firings at Independent Agencies by Trump Administration

    Source: US Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02)

    WASHINGTON, DC –  U.S. Rep. Seth Magaziner (RI-02), member of House Democrats’ Litigation and Rapid Response Task Force, joined two amicus briefs to challenge the unlawful attempted firings of independent agency officials by the Trump Administration. 

    One amicus brief is to be submitted in consolidated cases before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit Court to argue against the firing of Gwynne Wilcox, a member of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), and Cathy Harris, a member of the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB). The second brief challenges the legal basis for firing Commissioners Rebecca Slaughter and Alvaro Bedoya of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in the case, Slaughter and Bedoya v. Trump, et al.

    He released the following statement: 

    “Independent agencies like the NLRB, MSPB, and FTC exist to protect working people, ensure fair competition, and uphold the rule of law—not to serve the whims of any president.

    Donald Trump’s repeated attempts to fire and illegally purge independent commissioners are unconstitutional power grabs that threaten the checks and balances our democracy depends on.

    That’s why I’m joining these legal fights—to defend the independence of agencies, assert Congress’ constitutional authority, and push back against Trump’s dangerous abuse of power.”

    You can read the full amicus brief arguing against the firing of NLRB and MSPB employees here.

    You can read the full amicus brief in the case Slaughter and Bedoya v. Trump, et al. here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: International enterprises eye opportunities at China’s major trade exhibitions

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

    GUANGZHOU, April 18 — In spite of intensified trade protectionism and geopolitical tensions, China’s products and market are still appealing to foreign business people.

    A record-breaking 65 Fortune Global 500 companies and industry leaders are participating in the ongoing fifth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) in the tropical island province of Hainan in south China.

    Meanwhile, the Canton Fair, which kicked off on Tuesday in Guangzhou, south China, drew 64,530 overseas buyers on its opening day, an 8.9 percent year-on-year increase and a record high for the first day. This event in Guangdong Province features major international retailers, including Walmart and Target from the United States, Carrefour from France, Tesco and Kingfisher from the UK, and Germany’s Metro.

    According to Niu Huayong, a professor at the International Business School of Beijing Foreign Studies University, the success of this year’s CICPE and Canton Fair highlights that trade and cooperation remain key drivers of global development. All countries benefit from globalization, he said.

    Amid current global trade turbulence, international buyers attending the Canton Fair still consider Chinese products highly attractive and even irreplaceable.

    Dinova, a retail company headquartered in France which finds most of its suppliers at the Canton Fair, has made China the core of its global sourcing strategy, according to its general manager Sonia Ben Behe.

    “We have explored alternative countries, but no other region matches China’s maturity for our product category. That’s why, as part of a global sourcing strategy, China remains at the core,” she said.

    According to Chris Arthan, an exhibitor from the United States, despite the impact of tariffs, China’s role in the global supply chain remains crucial and widely respected.

    In addition to the strong appeal of Chinese products to global buyers, international brands also have confidence in China’s consumer market. For this year’s CICPE, top producers from around the world eagerly flocked to Hainan.

    The UK, as the guest country of honor at the 2025 event, is occupying an exhibition area of more than 1,300 square meters, displaying 53 brands across the fashion, beauty, homeware, health and jewelry industries, and doubling its 2024 presence.

    “I have seen the tremendous innovation and growth taking place within China’s economy in recent years, not least in digital technologies, life sciences and green energy,” said Douglas Alexander, minister of state of the British Department for Business and Trade, while also emphasizing the UK’s commitment to deepening economic ties with China.

    Notably, the expo has managed to draw an array of top-tier global luxury brands. Richemont’s TimeVallée debuted as an independent exhibitor, while LVMH and Kering Group brands made appearances — reflecting confidence in China’s premium consumption growth.

    “Luxury consumers in China are significantly younger than those in many overseas markets, and that presents a major opportunity for us,” said Nancy Liu, president of luxury travel retailer DFS China. The company has introduced tailored services to cater to the expectations of emerging consumer groups.

    Global trade uncertainties and growing supply chain disruptions have not prevented foreign investors from remaining optimistic about the Chinese market. China’s market size, rising consumer demand and supportive policies continue to offer unique and strong appeal, helping to retain investor confidence.

    According to Yao Zhenguo, global senior vice president of Siemens Energy, the development of the Hainan Free Trade Port is unlocking new opportunities for openness. He noted that Siemens will continue to strengthen collaboration across the full industrial chain, drive innovation, and support Hainan Free Trade Port’s international, green and law-based growth.

    Yao said Siemens has deeply felt the momentum of China’s reform and opening up, a view echoed by many exhibitors. They believe that amid a challenging global economic climate and rising trade protectionism, China’s firm commitment to high-standard opening up delivers much-needed stability and certainty, injecting confidence into the world economy.

    China’s total goods imports and exports in yuan-denominated terms expanded 1.3 percent year on year in the first quarter of 2025, demonstrating stable growth and strong resilience despite external headwinds, customs data showed.

    U.S. tariff increases on Chinese products will exert some pressure on China’s trade and economy in the short term, but won’t alter the Chinese economy’s long-term positive trajectory, said Sheng Laiyun, deputy director of the National Bureau of Statistics.

    Zhang Yansheng, an economist with the Academy of Macroeconomic Research, told Xinhua that based on the trade events in Guangzhou and Hainan, the resilience of China’s foreign trade against the backdrop of growing protectionism in the world is evident. “We can see that foreign business people continue to seek opportunities in China.”

    “China is a country with a large population, a big economy and a huge scale of opening up,” he continued. “At a time when the sentiment of anti-globalization grows, China will stick to the path of opening up at a high level, and promote economic globalization, as well as trade and investment liberalization.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI: FXSpire Debuts in Dubai as Forex Traders Seek Smarter Tools Amid Global Uncertainty

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DUBAI, UAE, April 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — With market volatility on the rise, Avenix Fzco has introduced FXSpire, an expert advisor built to enhance forex trading precision and filter out false breakouts. Market volatility presents both opportunities and challenges. In forex trading, one misstep can mean the difference between a smart entry and a costly mistake. That’s why the ability to spot false breakouts has become essential, and why tools like FXSpire, developed by Avenix Fzco, are helping traders better navigate today’s fast-moving markets.

    Understanding False Breakouts and Why They Matter

    False breakouts happen when price briefly breaks a support or resistance level before reversing course, often luring traders in and flipping direction. These traps can lead to losses and disrupt overall strategy. Identifying and avoiding them is key to staying consistent, especially in uncertain economic conditions.

    Why False Breakout Detection Matters in 2025

    As global economic uncertainty increases, detecting false breakouts is more crucial than ever. FXSpire’s technology helps traders filter misleading signals, focus on high-probability setups, and strengthen risk management, all essential for capital preservation and long-term profitability.

    Smarter Detection in 2025

    With global markets facing heightened unpredictability, distinguishing between real and false signals is more important than ever. FXSpire’s false breakout detection helps traders filter out the noise and zero in on setups that align with momentum, trend, and structure. The result? A more focused strategy with improved decision-making and stronger capital protection.

    How FXSpire Works

    FXSpire is an Expert Advisor (EA) for MetaTrader 4, tailored specifically for trading the EURUSD currency pair on the M30 chart. At its core, it combines pattern recognition, including formations like the Three White Soldiers and Three Black Crows, with algorithms designed to catch false breakouts before they turn into real losses.

    It’s not just about automation, it’s about precision. By identifying high-probability entries and layering on risk safeguards, FXSpire aims to deliver more control and fewer surprises.

    Core Features

    FXSpire’s approach to trading includes a well-rounded toolset:

    • Pattern Recognition Engine: Detects chart formations and filters out false breakouts to highlight better trade opportunities.
    • Risk Protection Tools: Uses trend filters, RSI indicators, trailing stops, and filters for spread/slippage to reduce unwanted exposure.
    • Flexible Position Management: Offers auto-lot sizing, fixed stop-loss and take-profit levels, and supports up to four simultaneous positions.

    In 2025’s forex environment, it’s not enough to automate, you need tools that think ahead. FXSpire offers traders a methodical, data-driven way to tackle volatility while keeping risk in check. Prioritizing precision and adaptability, it helps traders stay focused, confident, and in control of their next move.

    About FXSpire

    FXSpire is a precision-driven Expert Advisor for MetaTrader 4, optimized for EURUSD trading on the M30 timeframe. Using advanced pattern recognition, false breakout detection, and robust risk management, it helps traders achieve consistent results while minimizing unnecessary risks. Learn more at https://fxspire.com/.

    Media contact

    Brand: FXSpire

    Contact: Media tem

    Email: support@fxspire.com

    Website: https://fxspire.com/

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Claims of ‘anti-Christian bias’ sound to some voters like a message about race, not just religion

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Rosemary (Marah) Al-Kire, Postdoctoral Research Associate, University of Washington

    A 2024 study examined how voters perceive claims that Christians experience widespread discrimination. JTSorrell/iStock via Getty Images Plus

    President Donald Trump and members of his administration have long used allegations of anti-Christian discrimination as a rallying cry for supporters, arguing that policies and laws on issues like school prayer and LGBTQ+ rights threaten Christians’ right to express their beliefs.

    Weeks into his second term, Trump took action, signing an executive order on “Eradicating Anti-Christian Bias.” The order vowed to “protect the religious freedoms of Americans and end the anti-Christian weaponization of government” by identifying anti-Christian conduct and recommending policy changes. In mid-April, Secretary of State Marco Rubio instructed employees in the State Department to report any incidents of such bias that occurred during the Biden administration.

    Many critics contest claims of widespread discrimination against Christians in U.S. society, given that Christians are the country’s largest faith group and benefit from associated privileges. Consider how Christmas is recognized as a federal holiday, whereas other faiths’ major holidays are not.

    As social psychologists, we were curious who claims of anti-Christian bias appeal to, and how those claims are perceived.

    Hats for sale at a campaign rally for Donald Trump in Vandalia, Ohio, on March 16, 2024.
    AP Photo/Jessie Wardarski

    Our 2024 research, as well as other scholars’ work, suggests that people’s beliefs about anti-Christian discrimination are tied with their attitudes about race. These studies suggest that when politicians talk about anti-Christian bias, it does more than signal a concern and commitment to Christians – it can also serve as a signal of white solidarity.

    A changing America

    Even though they remain the largest religious and racial groups, white Americans and Christian Americans have both declined as a proportion of the U.S. population. Over the past two decades, the percentage of Christian Americans has decreased from 78% to 63%, and the percentage of white Americans has decreased from 69% to 60%. White Christians now account for less than 50% of the country.

    Many scholars have argued that, at the root, some white and Christian Americans feel threatened by these demographic shifts. Increasing secularization and other cultural changes have added to some white Christians’ sense that their identity is under attack. According to FBI data, however, only 3% of hate crimes over the past five years targeted Christians. In comparison, 14% targeted Jews, Muslims or Sikhs – groups that make up just 3% of the population.

    The Public Religion Research Institute found that 55% of white Americans believe discrimination against white people is as much of a problem as discrimination against minority groups. Meanwhile, 60% of white evangelicals say that Christians in the U.S. face discrimination.

    In his executive order, Trump echoes these perceptions of threat, painting a picture of embattlement for Christians.

    The executive order provides examples of charges brought against Christian pro-life protesters and alleges that Democrats failed to respond to attacks on churches. The executive order criticizes the Biden administration for policies that it says “force Christians to affirm radical transgender ideology against their faith,” including for potential foster parents.

    Testing views

    Historically, white people and Christians were often treated as the quintessential Americans – meaning race and religion are tightly connected in U.S. culture.

    Sixty-two percent of white American adults identify as Christian, and 61% of American Christians identify as white.

    Marchers protest school integration in Little Rock, Ark., in 1959. One of their signs says ‘Please save our Christian America.’
    Bledsoe/Library of Congress/Interim Archives/Getty Images

    In our four experiments, published in Psychological Science in March 2024, we tested these connections between views of race and religion, focusing on claims about anti-Christian bias.

    First, in two online experiments of about 3,000 participants, we randomly assigned white and Black Christians to one of four groups. One group did not read anything, while the other three were each given a brief blurb about discrimination. Each blurb summarized a different group’s fears that bias against them was increasing: white Americans, Black Americans and Christian Americans.

    Afterward, we asked all the participants to assess how much bias they think those groups actually face. Compared to white Christians who did not read anything, white Christians who read the blurb about anti-Christian bias perceived greater anti-white bias. Black Christians who read the blurb about anti-Christian bias, however, did not perceive greater anti-white bias than Black Christians who did not read anything.

    Thus, it appears that the white Christians mentally linked anti-Christian and anti-white bias.

    In our other two experiments, we randomly assigned about 1,000 white and Black Christians to read an interview excerpt from a fictional local politician who was asked about the most pressing issue in their community. The politician either voiced concern about anti-Christian bias, anti-white bias, religious freedom or the economy.

    What are you worried about?
    microgen/iStock via Getty Images Plus

    Afterward, we asked participants several questions about the politician, including whether they thought this figure was liberal or conservative, and whether they thought this figure would be “concerned about bias against white people.” Black and white Christian respondents believed the politician who voiced concern about anti-Christian bias was also more likely to fight for the rights of white people, relative to the politician who discussed the economy.

    We also asked participants whether they found the politician’s interview offensive. Both Black and white Christians viewed the message about anti-Christian bias as less offensive than the message about anti-white bias.

    Importantly, these effects held regardless of whether participants believed the politician was conservative or liberal.

    Taken together, these findings suggest that expressing concern for anti-Christian bias can be interpreted as signaling allegiance to white people – without the social cost of being accused of racism. Instead, allegations of anti-Christian bias can be presented in a positive way as issues of “religious freedom,” a core American value.

    Whether intentionally or not, it seems that rallying around anti-Christian bias can serve as a “dog whistle” signaling support for people concerned about changes in America’s racial makeup, as well.

    Michael Pasek receives funding from the Russell Sage Foundation.

    Clara L. Wilkins and Rosemary (Marah) Al-Kire do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Claims of ‘anti-Christian bias’ sound to some voters like a message about race, not just religion – https://theconversation.com/claims-of-anti-christian-bias-sound-to-some-voters-like-a-message-about-race-not-just-religion-250729

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI China: China, Cambodia pledge to implement China-proposed global initiatives

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

    PHNOM PENH, April 18 — China and Cambodia on Friday expressed readiness to fully implement the China-proposed Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative and Global Civilization Initiative.

    The commitment was underscored in a joint statement issued when Chinese President Xi Jinping wrapped up his state visit to Cambodia, where both countries also highlighted their mutual goal of speeding up the building of an all-weather China-Cambodia community with a shared future in the new era.

    The two sides underscored their willingness to be frontrunners in the Global Development Initiative and to inject strong impetus into global development, especially the development of the Global South.

    To implement the initiative, the two sides agreed to accelerate the advancement of the Industrial Development Corridor plan, leverage the China-Cambodia railway cooperation mechanism to jointly formulate a general plan for Cambodia’s railway network, and speed up the implementation of the Fish and Rice Corridor cooperation plan.

    They also agreed to work actively to promote the signing of the upgrade protocol of the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area at an early date within this year.

    Cambodia supported Hong Kong’s accession to the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership and welcomed the Global AI Governance Initiative put forward by Xi.

    They also agreed to jointly build a secure and stable industrial and supply chain, expand the use of local currencies in bilateral trade and investment, and enhance cooperation in the field of clean energy.

    As for the Global Security Initiative, the two sides affirmed their commitment to the vision of common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security, and to resolving differences and disputes between countries through dialogue and consultation in a peaceful manner, so as to make positive contributions to regional and global peace and stability.

    China lauded Cambodia’s crackdown on illegal online gambling, and the two sides voiced their willingness to continue to carry out the Year of Law Enforcement Cooperation activities.

    China has actively promoted the resolution of international and regional hotspot issues, and Cambodia welcomes China’s important and constructive role in this regard.

    The two sides believe that the South China Sea issue should be resolved peacefully by sovereign states directly concerned through friendly consultations and negotiations, and any attempt to use the South China Sea issue to undermine regional peace and mutual trust will be counterproductive.

    On the Global Civilization Initiative, they emphasized that both countries are ancient civilizations with long histories.

    They jointly advocated for respecting the diversity of world civilizations, promoting the common values of humanity, and contributing to exchanges and mutual learning among human civilizations.

    The two sides agreed to designate 2025 the China-Cambodia Year of Tourism and encourage their citizens to travel to each other’s countries.

    They also expressed willingness to explore the establishment of China-Cambodia joint working group on cultural heritages to promote comprehensive cooperation in the field. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China, Cambodia reaffirm commitment to multilateral trade system, regional stability

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

    China, Cambodia reaffirm commitment to multilateral trade system, regional stability

    PHNOM PENH, April 18 — China and Cambodia on Friday expressed strong opposition to trade protectionism and reaffirmed their commitment to a multilateral trading system centered on the World Trade Organization (WTO).

    The commitment was underscored in a joint statement issued when Chinese President Xi Jinping wrapped up his state visit to Cambodia, where the two countries highlighted their mutual goal of building an all-weather China-Cambodia community with a shared future in the new era and implementing three China-proposed global initiatives.

    The statement emphasized their dedication to maintaining a trading system that is predictable, rules-based, transparent, non-discriminatory, open and inclusive.

    The two sides are of one mind that trade and investment restrictions pose a threat to economic security and the international trade order.

    They recognize the WTO’s importance as a platform for trade rule-making, review, and dialogue and cooperation, and acknowledge its crucial role in promoting trade and investment liberalization and facilitation.

    The two countries also vowed to defend the legitimate rights and interests of all WTO members, and pledged to work together towards the reform of the organization.

    They also pledged to push for practical outcomes at the organization’s 14th ministerial conference, and advance economic globalization towards a more open, inclusive, universally beneficial, balanced and win-win direction.

    On regional security, China and Cambodia reiterated the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region, voicing opposition to the formation of exclusive “small circles” and camp-based confrontation, as well as the proliferation of nuclear weapons and the deployment of missiles. They warned that such actions could trigger an arms race and jeopardize regional peace and stability.

    The two sides agreed to promote the building of an Asia-Pacific community with a shared future, and to contribute more to the region’s stability and prosperity.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Astronaut to Answer Questions from Colorado Students

    Source: NASA

    Students from Woodland Park, Colorado, will connect with NASA astronaut Nichole Ayers as she answers prerecorded science, technology, engineering, and mathematics-related questions from aboard the International Space Station.
    Watch the 20-minute space-to-Earth call at 11:55 a.m. EDT on Monday, April 21, on the NASA STEM YouTube Channel.
    The event, hosted by Woodland Park High School, also is open to students from Woodland Park Middle School. The Colorado high school wants to show students that even though they reside in a small town, they can achieve big dreams. Ayers, who considers Colorado Springs and Divide, Colorado, home, is a graduate of Woodland Park.
    Media interested in covering the event must RSVP by 5 p.m., Friday, April 18 to Lindsey Prahl at lprah@wpsdk12.org or 719-922-1019.
    For more than 24 years, astronauts have continuously lived and worked aboard the space station, testing technologies, performing science, and developing skills needed to explore farther from Earth. Astronauts aboard the orbiting laboratory communicate with NASA’s Mission Control Center in Houston 24 hours a day through SCaN’s (Space Communications and Navigation) Near Space Network.
    Important research and technology investigations taking place aboard the space station benefit people on Earth and lays the groundwork for other agency missions. As part of NASA’s Artemis campaign, the agency will send astronauts to the Moon to prepare for future human exploration of Mars; inspiring Artemis Generation explorers and ensuring the United States continues to lead in space exploration and discovery.
    See videos and lesson plans highlighting space station research at:
    https://www.nasa.gov/stemonstation
    -end-
    Tiernan DoyleHeadquarters, Washington202-358-1600tiernan.doyle@nasa.gov  
    Sandra JonesJohnson Space Center, Houston281-483-5111sandra.p.jones@nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SECL to Become First Coal PSU to Use Paste Fill Technology for Mining

    Source: Government of India

    SECL to Become First Coal PSU to Use Paste Fill Technology for Mining

    ₹7040 Crore Agreement Signed Between SECL and TMC Mineral Resources

    Posted On: 18 APR 2025 3:01PM by PIB Delhi

    South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL) is set to become the first coal PSU in India to adopt paste fill technology for coal mining—marking a major step toward sustainable and environmentally friendly mining practices.

    To implement this innovative underground mining technology, SECL has signed a ₹7040 crore agreement with TMC Mineral Resources Private Limited.

    Under this agreement, large-scale coal production will be undertaken using paste fill technology in the Singhali underground coal mine located in SECL’s Korba area. Over a period of 25 years, the project is expected to produce approximately 8.4 million tonnes (84.5 lakh tonnes) of coal.

    What is Paste Fill Technology?

    Paste filling is a modern underground mining method that eliminates the need to acquire surface land. After coal extraction, the mined-out voids are filled with a specially prepared paste made from fly ash, crushed overburden from opencast mines, cement, water, and binding chemicals. This process prevents land subsidence and ensures the structural stability of the mine.

    Importantly, the paste utilizes industrial waste materials, making the process environmentally sustainable and promoting waste recycling.

    Background of Singhali Mine

    The Singhali underground mine was approved in 1989 for a production capacity of 0.24 million tonnes per year and commenced operations in 1993. Presently, the mine has 8.45 million tonnes of extractable reserves of G-7 grade non-coking coal. It was developed using the Bord and Pillar method, employing Load Haul Dumpers (LHDs) and Universal Drilling Machines (UDMs) for underground operations.

    However, the surface area above the mine is densely occupied—with villages, high-tension electricity lines, and a Public Works Department (PWD) road—rendering traditional caving methods unfeasible due to safety and environmental concerns.

    New Opportunity for Singhali Mine

    With the introduction of paste fill technology, mining activities in this area can now proceed without disturbing the surface infrastructure.

    The successful implementation of this technology in Singhali is expected to pave the way for resuming operations in other underground mines where similar land constraints exist.

    A Step Towards Green Mining

    With a total investment of ₹7040 crore, the project is a major initiative to promote green mining technologies in India. It aims to enhance coal production while significantly reducing environmental impact.

    Speaking on the occasion, SECL CMD Shri Harish Duhan said “I firmly believe that paste fill technology will not only secure the future of underground mining but also offer an innovative, eco-friendly solution. This project is a landmark step toward green mining and will shape the future of the coal industry in the years to come.”

    ****

    Shuhaib T

    (Release ID: 2122660) Visitor Counter : 17

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: BYDFi Officially Launches On-Chain Trading Tool MoonX, Ushering in the Era of CEX + DEX Dual Engines

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, April 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In April 2025, at the Paris Blockchain Week(PBW), BYDFi, as one of the official sponsors, unveiled its new Web3 product—MoonX, capturing the spotlight at the event. MoonX is an on-chain smart trading tool designed specifically for MemeCoin investors, integrating features such as hot trend discovery, risk screening, smart money following, and trade optimization.

    The launch of MoonX marks BYDFi’s official entry into the “Dual Engine Era” of both Centralized Exchange (CEX) and Decentralized Exchange (DEX) platforms. In a highly competitive global crypto exchange market, BYDFi is one of the first to complete this platform upgrade.

    “Traditional exchanges are shifting from a competition based solely on trading speed and fees to a broader ecosystem competition,” said Michael, CEO of BYDFi, at the launch event. “The explosive growth of MemeCoins is driving a new wave of user growth. The future market leaders won’t just be those offering fast matching and low fees on CEXs, but platforms that can simultaneously link the on-chain ecosystem with user demand.”

    As the on-chain investment entry point, MoonX complements the main BYDFi platform (CEX) with a hybrid structure:

    This structural upgrade gives BYDFi a competitive advantage as CEX and DEXs increasingly merge in the future.

    Currently, MoonX is deeply integrated with two major ecosystems: Solana and BNB Chain, covering leading liquidity pools like Pump.fun, Raydium, and PancakeSwap, while supporting real-time tracking of over 500,000 MemeCoin assets.

    Key features of the product include:

    • Fast Token Listing: API data exchange with platforms like Pump.fun to capture hot projects as liquidity pools are launched, exploiting trading time differences.
    • Smart Risk Control: Multi-dimensional models evaluate token security (contract permissions, blacklists, token lock-up status, etc.), filtering out high-risk tokens.
    • Smart Money Following: The system tracks millions of on-chain addresses, identifying whales and high-probability addresses, allowing users to copy trades with one click and easily share strategy profits.
    • Trade Optimization: Built-in gas optimization algorithms and slippage control mechanisms ensure smooth transactions and cost control, even during peak times.

    For a long time, “complex processes” and “asset security risks” have been major concerns preventing ordinary users from participating in on-chain investments. MoonX’s mission is to reinvent the on-chain trading experience, allowing more people to participate in Web3 investments as easily as using an app-based exchange. With just a BYDFi account, users can instantly connect to the blockchain and trade the next trending Meme project before it takes off.

    About BYDFi
    Founded in 2020, BYDFi was recognized by Forbes as one of the “Top 10 Global Crypto Exchanges” and has been certified by major data platforms such as CoinMarketCap and CoinGecko. The platform currently serves users in over 190 countries and regions, earning the trust of more than 1,000,000 users worldwide. BYDFi is committed to providing users with a world-class crypto trading experience.

    • Website: https://www.bydfi.com
    • Support Email: CS@bydfi.com
    • Business Partnerships: BD@bydfi.com
    • Media Inquiries: media@bydfi.com

    Twitter( X )| LinkedIn| Facebook | Telegram| YouTube

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ffe677d9-1d04-4d7c-9327-3c3bb133b1b2

    The MIL Network –