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Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget Announces Strategic Partnership with SWEAT to Boost Movement Economy in Web3

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, May 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget, the leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company, has announced its strategic partnership with SWEAT, the pioneering movement economy ecosystem, lowering entry barriers for Web2 audiences while seamlessly connecting them to Web3. The alliance was unveiled at Dubai Esports Festival 2025 (DEF), where attendees experienced the future first-hand through interactive activities that turn physical activity into crypto rewards.

    From Dubai Airport to Sheikh Zayed Road, the city’s most prominent billboards now carry a powerful message: Walk into Crypto—Step. Sweat. Score. “We’re turning physical activity into financial empowerment,” declared SWEAT Co-founder and CEO Oleg Fomenko. “This is about rewarding the most natural human behavior, movement, with digital ownership.”

    Bitget COO Vugar Usi Zade added, “Our mission has always been to bridge Web2 and Web3, and what better way than through something as universal as movement? This partnership makes crypto accessible in the most human way possible—through the natural movement we do every day,” he added.

    The collaboration debuts cutting-edge innovations, including SWEAT’s AI movement coach, Mia, and expanded multi-chain wallet capabilities. At the same time, for Bitget, this partnership represents another strategic step in its vision to seamlessly connect traditional and decentralized digital economies. “We’re building bridges, not walls,” emphasized Vugar. “By meeting users where they already are, in this case, through their daily movement, we’re creating the most natural on-ramps to Web3. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or crypto curious, this partnership makes the transition effortless and rewarding.”

    This isn’t just another industry collaboration—it’s a fitness-meets-finance movement that redefines how people interact with digital assets. SWEAT and Bitget are writing the next chapter of mainstream crypto adoption by transforming routine activity into financial opportunity. As Dubai’s skyline lights up with SWEAT x Bitget billboards, one thing’s clear: The future of Web3 isn’t just about sitting and staring at charts. Sometimes, you’ve gotta move it to prove it.

    About Bitget

    Established in 2018, Bitget is the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company. Serving over 120 million users in 150+ countries and regions, the Bitget exchange is committed to helping users trade smarter with its pioneering copy trading feature and other trading solutions, while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, and other cryptocurrency prices. Formerly known as BitKeep, Bitget Wallet is a world-class multi-chain crypto wallet that offers an array of comprehensive Web3 solutions and features including wallet functionality, token swap, NFT Marketplace, DApp browser, and more.

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

    For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Bitget Wallet
    For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com

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

    About SWEAT

    SWEAT is a Web3 platform that encourages physical activity by rewarding users for moving. It uses $SWEAT, a token earned through steps, to turn movement into value to be used, grown, traded and spent in the Movement Economy. The token is stored in the SWEAT Wallet, a mobile app with 20+ million downloads and over 3 million monthly active users. By downloading SWEAT Wallet for free, users globally can start to earn $SWEAT and join the Movement Economy, where every step counts.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e37dd931-a554-44f4-a1e6-35fb8a75835d

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c91c386f-00b7-4219-9ff7-d9aa4e90def2

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d44445dc-c37e-4e45-9984-adc3d21e757f

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Municipality Finance issues EUR 40 million notes under its MTN programme

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Municipality Finance Plc
    Stock exchange release
    9 May 2025 at 1:00 pm (EEST)

    Municipality Finance issues EUR 40 million notes under its MTN programme  

    Municipality Finance Plc issues EUR 40 million notes on 12 May 2025. The maturity date of the notes is 14 May 2029. The notes bear interest at a floating rate equal to 3-month EURIBOR plus 22.5 bps per annum.

    The notes are issued under MuniFin’s EUR 50 billion programme for the issuance of debt instruments. The offering circular, the supplemental offering circular and the final terms of the notes are available in English on the company’s website at https://www.kuntarahoitus.fi/en/for-investors.

    MuniFin has applied for the notes to be admitted to trading on the Helsinki Stock Exchange maintained by Nasdaq Helsinki. The public trading is expected to commence on 12 May 2025.

    DNB Bank ASA acts as the dealer for the issue of the notes.

    MUNICIPALITY FINANCE PLC

    Further information:

    Joakim Holmström
    Executive Vice President, Capital Markets and Sustainability
    tel. +358 50 444 3638

    MuniFin (Municipality Finance Plc) is one of Finland’s largest credit institutions. The owners of the company include Finnish municipalities, the public sector pension fund Keva and the State of Finland. The Group’s balance sheet is over EUR 53 billion.

    MuniFin builds a better and more sustainable future with its customers. MuniFin’s customers include municipalities, joint municipal authorities, wellbeing services counties, corporate entities under their control, and non-profit organisations nominated by the Housing Finance and Development Centre of Finland (ARA). Lending is used for environmentally and socially responsible investment targets such as public transportation, sustainable buildings, hospitals and healthcare centres, schools and day care centres, and homes for people with special needs.

    MuniFin’s customers are domestic but the company operates in a completely global business environment. The company is an active Finnish bond issuer in international capital markets and the first Finnish green and social bond issuer. The funding is exclusively guaranteed by the Municipal Guarantee Board.

    Read more: https://www.kuntarahoitus.fi/en/

    Important Information

    The information contained herein is not for release, publication or distribution, in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, in or into any such country or jurisdiction or otherwise in such circumstances in which the release, publication or distribution would be unlawful. The information contained herein does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of, any securities or other financial instruments in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration, exemption from registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction.

    This communication does not constitute an offer of securities for sale in the United States. The notes have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”) or under the applicable securities laws of any state of the United States and may not be offered or sold, directly or indirectly, within the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons except pursuant to an applicable exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: USP World Press Freedom Day warnings over AI, legal reform and media safety

    World Press Freedom Day is not just a celebration of the vital role journalism plays — it is also a moment to reflect on the pressures facing the profession and Pacific governments’ responsibility to protect it.

    This was one of the key messages delivered by two guest speakers at The University of the South Pacific (USP) Journalism’s 2025 World Press Freedom Day celebrations this week, the UN Human Rights Adviser for the Pacific, Heike Alefsen, and Fiji Media Association’s general secretary, Stanley Simpson.

    In her address to journalism students and other attendees on Monday, chief guest Alefsen emphasised that press freedom is a fundamental pillar of democracy, a human right, and essential for sustainable development and the rule of law.

    “Media freedom is a prerequisite for inclusive, rights-respecting societies,” Alefsen said, warning of rising threats such as censorship, harassment, and surveillance of journalists — especially with the spread of AI tools used to manipulate information and monitor media workers.

    UN Human Rights Adviser for the Pacific Heike Alefsen (from left), USP Journalism programme head Dr Shailendra Singh, and Fiji Media Association’s general secretary Stanley Simpson . . . reflecting on pressures facing the profession of journalism. Image: Mele Tu’uakitau

    AI and human rights
     She stressed that AI must serve human rights — not undermine them — and that it must be used transparently, accountably, and in accordance with international human rights law.

    “Some political actors exploit AI to spread disinformation and manipulate narratives for personal or political gain,” she said.

    She added that these risks were compounded by the fact that a handful of powerful corporations and individuals now controlled much of the AI infrastructure and influenced the global media environment — able to amplify preferred messages or suppress dissenting voices.

    “Innovation cannot come at the expense of press freedom, privacy, or journalist safety,” she said.

    Regarding Fiji, Alefsen praised the 2023 repeal of the Media Industry Development Act (MIDA) as a “critical turning point,” noting its positive impact on Fiji’s ranking in the RSF World Press Freedom Index.

    World Press Freedom Day at The University of the South Pacific on Monday. Image: USP — the country rose four places to 40th in the 2025 survey.

    However, she emphasised that legal reforms must continue, especially regarding sedition laws, and she highlighted ongoing challenges across the Pacific, including financial precarity, political pressure, and threats to women journalists.

    According to Alefsen, the media landscape in the Pacific was evolving for the better in some countries but concerns remained. She highlighted the working conditions of most journalists in the region, where financial insecurity, political interference, and lack of institutional support were prevalent.

    “Independent journalism ensures transparency, combats disinformation, amplifies marginalised voices, and enables people to make informed decisions about their lives and governance. In too many countries around the world, journalists face censorship, detention, and in some cases, death — simply for doing their jobs,” she said.

    Strengthening media independence and sustainability
     Keynote speaker Stanley Simpson, echoed these concerns, adding that “the era where the Fiji media could survive out of sheer will and guts is over.”

    “Now, it’s about technology, sustainability, and mental health support,” he said.

    Speaking on the theme, Strengthening Media Independence and Sustainability, Simpson emphasised the need for the media to remain independent, noting that journalists are often expected to make greater sacrifices than professionals in other industries.

    “Independence — while difficult and challenging — is a must in the media industry for it to maintain credibility. We must be able to think, speak, write, and report freely on any matter or anyone,” Simpson said.

    According to Simpson, there was a misconception in Fiji that being independent meant avoiding relationships or contacts.

    “There is a need to build your networks — to access and get information from a wide variety of sources. In fact, strengthening media independence means being able to talk to everyone and hear all sides. Gather all views and present them in a fair, balanced and accurate manner.”

    He argued that media could only be sustainable if it was independent — and that independence was only possible if sustainability was achieved. Simpson recalled the events of the 2006 political upheaval, which he said contributed to the decline of media freedom and the collapse of some media organisations in Fiji.

    “Today, as we mark World Press Freedom Day, we gather at this great institution to reflect on a simple yet profound truth: media can only be truly sustainable if it is genuinely free.

    “We need democratic, political, and governance structures in place, along with a culture of responsible free speech — believed in and practised by our leaders and the people of Fiji,” he said.

    USP students and guests at the 2025 World Press Freedom Day event. Picture: Mele Tu’uakitau

    The new media landscape
     Simpson also spoke about the evolving media landscape, noting the rise of social media influencers and AI generated content. He urged journalists to verify sources and ensure fairness, balance and accuracy — something most social media platforms were not bound by.

    While some influencers have been accused of being clickbait-driven, Simpson acknowledged their role. “I think they are important new voices in our democracy and changing landscape,” he said.

    He criticised AI-generated news platforms that republished content without editorial oversight, warning that they further eroded public trust in the media.

    “Sites are popping up overnight claiming to be news platforms, but their content is just AI-regurgitated media releases,” he said. “This puts the entire credibility of journalism at risk.”

    Fiji media challenges
     Simpson outlined several challenges facing the Fiji media, including financial constraints, journalist mental health, lack of investment in equipment, low salaries, and staff retention. He emphasised the importance of building strong democratic and governance structures and fostering a culture that respects and values free speech.

    “Many fail to appreciate the full scale of the damage to the media industry landscape from the last 16 years. If there had not been a change in government, I believe there would have been no Mai TV, Fiji TV, or a few other local media organisations today. We would not have survived another four years,” he said.

    According to Simpson, some media organisations in Fiji were only one or two months away from shutting down.

    “We barely survived the last 16 years, while many media organisations in places like New Zealand — TV3’s NewsHub — have already closed down. The era where the Fiji media would survive out of sheer will and guts is over. We need to be more adaptive and respond quickly to changing realities — digital, social media, and artificial intelligence,” he said.

    Dr Singh (left) moderates the student panel discussion with Riya Bhagwan, Maniesse Ikuinen-Perman and Vahefonua Tupola. Image: Mele Tu’uakitau

    Young journalists respond
     During a panel discussion, second-year USP journalism student Vahefonua Tupola of Tonga highlighted the connection between the media and ethical journalism, sharing a personal experience to illustrate his point.

    He said that while journalists should enjoy media freedom, they must also apply professional ethics, especially in challenging situations.

    Tupola noted that the insights shared by the speakers and fellow students had a profound impact on his perspective.

    Another panelist, third-year student and Journalism Students Association president Riya Bhagwan, addressed the intersection of artificial intelligence and journalism.

    She said that in this era of rapid technological advancement, responsibility was more critical than ever — with the rise of AI, social media, and a constant stream of information.

    “It’s no longer just professional journalists reporting the news — we also have citizen journalism, where members of the public create and share content that can significantly influence public opinion.

    “With this shift, responsible journalism becomes essential. Journalists must uphold professional standards, especially in terms of accuracy and credibility,” she said.

    The third panelist, second-year student Maniesse Ikuinen-Perman from the Federated States of Micronesia, acknowledged the challenges facing media organisations and journalists in the Pacific.

    She shared that young and aspiring journalists like herself were only now beginning to understand the scope of difficulties journalists face in Fiji and across the region.

    Maniesse emphasised the importance of not just studying journalism but also putting it into practice after graduation, particularly when returning to work in media organisations in their home countries.

    The panel discussion, featuring journalism students responding to keynote addresses, was moderated by USP Journalism head of programme Dr Shailendra Singh.

    Dr Singh concluded by noting that while Fiji had made significant progress with the repeal of the Media Industry Development Act (MIDA), global experience demonstrated that media freedom must never be taken for granted.

    He stressed that maintaining media freedom was an ongoing struggle and always a work in progress.

    “As far as media organisations are concerned, there is always a new challenge on the horizon,” he said, pointing to the complications brought about by digital disruption and, more recently, artificial intelligence.

    • Fiji rose four places to 40th (out of 180 nations) in the RSF 2025 World Press Freedom Index to make the country the Oceania media freedom leader outside of Australia (29) and New Zealand (16).

    Niko Ratumaimuri is a second-year journalism student at The University of the South Pacific’s Laucala Campus. This article was first published by the student online news site Wansolwara and is republished in collaboration with Asia Pacific Report.

    USP Journalism students, staff and guests at the 2025 World Press Freedom Day celebrations at Laucala campus on Monday. Image: Mele Tu’uakitau

    Article by AsiaPacificReport.nz

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Sudan: MSF returns to Bashair Teaching hospital in Khartoum amidst soaring cholera needs

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières –

    KHARTOUM – Exactly two years after Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) first worked in south Khartoum’s Bashair Teaching hospital, Sudan, our team is again joining the hospital’s Ministry of Health staff in partnership to meet people’s immense needs. MSF suspended activities at the hospital in January 2025 after repeated violent incidents. Our initial focus will be the worrying and growing cholera outbreak.

    “Our team in Bashair Teaching hospital has been working to ensure that the 20-bed cholera treatment unit is ready to receive patients. Training for over 60 hospital staff members has been completed, and cholera-related medical supplies have arrived at the hospital,” says Slaymen Ammar, MSF medical coordinator for Sudan. “The war has had a devastating impact on people’s access to healthcare. The population in many localities within the capital, including south Khartoum, still don’t have the needed access to essential, life-saving healthcare.”

    “Restarting and expanding critical health services in Bashair Hospital and beyond can’t wait – it was needed yesterday,” says Ammar.

    Like many health facilities in Khartoum and across Sudan, Bashair Teaching hospital stopped functioning when war first broke out in April 2023. A few weeks later, medics and volunteers reopened it to ensure the community could still access healthcare. An MSF surgical and medical team joined them on 9 May 2023, enabling the hospital to provide surgery alongside emergency medical care. In the first five weeks of working there, the emergency room saw more than 1,000 patients, over 900 of them with trauma-related injuries.

    For 20 months, MSF teams worked alongside volunteers and medical staff to provide healthcare to people trapped in violence and devastation in south Khartoum. During this time, we continuously saw desperately injured and ill patients flocking to the hospital, demonstrating the significant needs in this part of Khartoum. In August 2023, for example, MSF and the Bashair Teaching hospital team treated more than 200 people in two days in successive mass influxes of wounded after bombings nearby. When the maternity department reopened the following month, 40 babies were delivered in the first two weeks, including seven by caesarean section.

    Over the past two years, MSF has had to suspend activities several times. In 2023, a ban on the transport of surgical supplies to Khartoum forced a stop to all surgical activities – including caesarean sections and trauma care – for several months. In November and December 2024, violent incidents, including the killing of a patient in the hospital, led MSF to suspend temporarily. When armed men again entered the hospital in January 2025, MSF made the difficult decision to suspend all activity at the hospital. 

    The situation in Khartoum is significantly calmer now but many hospitals and healthcare facilities have been damaged or closed because of the war and are not fully functional. In addition to restarting work in Bashair Teaching hospital, MSF is providing general healthcare through mobile clinics in central and south Khartoum, and we are preparing to restart other medical activities in various parts of the city and state. MSF also continues to support medical activities in Omdurman, at Al Buluk hospital and Al Nao hospitals, where we run a cholera treatment unit, in addition to other activities aiming to improve water and sanitation services in the area.

    “The needs in Khartoum remain immense. The current cholera outbreak is only one of the challenges facing people still living in Khartoum or returning from other parts of the country,” says Claire San Filippo, MSF emergency coordinator for Sudan. “Humanitarian assistance must be scaled up, access facilitated and medical care protected to ensure that all those who need it, in Khartoum and in the rest of Sudan, can access healthcare.”

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Introducing Samsung SOS+ Subscription Service Provided by Aura: Exclusive to Galaxy A56, A36 & A26

    Source: Samsung

    Samsung South Africa has partnered with AURA to officially launch Samsung SOS+, a free-to-use, 24/7 subscription service exclusive to the new Galaxy A56, A36 and A26 device owners. In an emergency situation and on demand, the service will immediately geolocate you and send traceable private security and medical emergency services, giving you peace of mind wherever you are in South Africa. This makes the latest Galaxy A Series the ultimate all-in-one safety solution in your pocket combining communication, smart tech, and personal security in one package.
    Samsung SOS+ is provided by AURA, the leading emergency response platform that stands apart through its unwavering commitment to transforming emergency response. Since 2017, AURA has been delivering real-time, life-saving assistance to those in need, ensuring immediate access to medical and security services when every second counts.
    Samsung isn’t just offering a service, we’re embedding access to safety directly into the everyday lives of our customers. Emergencies don’t come with warnings. Whether it’s a car accident, a health event, or an unexpected threat while walking home, time is critical. Samsung’s SOS+ is designed for instinctive use, it’s accessible with just one tap from the ICE (In Case of Emergency) contact list and there are multiple ways to access the service, via the app, SMS and toll free number. It’s fast, intuitive, and designed to help registered Galaxy A users in stressful situations.
     
    “Woven into people’s daily lives, Samsung acts as an enabling tool and a source of empowerment. If Samsung devices are always with our customers, why can’t they be the lifeline our customers reach for, should such an emergency situation happen? Now with Samsung SOS+, the Galaxy A Series offers immediate access to security and medical assistance.” said Justin Hume, Vice President for Mobile eXperience at Samsung.
    The reality for many South Africans is that they do not have access to quick medical and emergency services. Recent reports suggest that only 17% of South Africans have medical aid that gives them access to get private ambulances, less than 13% having access to private security, and in the poorest communities, that number falling to just 1.2%, Samsung SOS+ could be life-changing.
    “Samsung SOS+ turns your phone into a personal safety tool – one call, and professional help is on the way,” added Warren Myers, CEO of AURA. “We’re not just offering peace of mind – we’re delivering it with unmatched speed and nationwide. Safety is a basic human need, and our mission is to save lives by democratising access to on-demand emergency response services.”

    Samsung’s Galaxy A Series offers smartphones built on the foundations of dependable innovation and affordability. Building on this, access to the Samsung SOS+ subscription service is available, free of charge, on any new Galaxy A26, A36, and A56 device from 05 May 2025 to 06 August 2025 as a Proof of Concept. All devices purchased on or after 1 May 2025 qualify for the promotion.
     
    Samsung SOS+ is immediately there for you – accessible via the SOS+ APP or toll-free number – with immediate help, live location tracking, giving customers peace of mind.
    “At Samsung, we’re committed to enriching lives not only through innovative technology and devices, but also meaningful services that matter to our consumers,” said Hume.
    Designed for instinctive use, Samsung SOS+ offers:
    Once registered through a quick process, in any medical and emergency, customers simply dial the dedicated toll-free Samsung SOS+ subscription service number, which triggers an alert and shares their live location directly with AURA’s secure platform. The closest vetted responder – either medical or armed response – is immediately automatically dispatched from AURA’s nationwide network of over 3,500 professionals. Simultaneously, users receive a call back from the personalised call centre to offer reassurance and confirm help is on the way.
    ● One-tap access from your contacts or the phone’s ICE (In Case of Emergency) contact list
    ● Multimodal communication: via app, SMS, voice, or web
    ● Toll-free and Data-free functionality: location tracking can be activated through SMS
    ● Live responder tracking: users can see help approaching in real time – offering critical peace of mind.
    How do I set up the service?
    Step 1: Purchase and activate the device.
    Step 2: Have all the current Samsung software updates downloaded and installed from the settings menu on the device.
    Step 3: Download the Samsung Members application from the Samsung Galaxy Store or Google Play Store on the device.
    Step 4: Register for a Samsung Members account, then select “Galaxy A-series Samsung SOS+
    Launch Offer” promotional banner in the “Benefits” section of the Samsung Members
    application and follow the prompts to complete the online registration and form.
    Step 5: Once the online form (referred to in step 4), has been submitted, the user will be required to complete the Samsung SOS+ service on-boarding process via the registration link and will be required to agree to and enter into the Application Terms.
     
    Buy the new Galaxy A56, A36, or A26 today and unlock 12-months free security and medical emergency peace of mind ready when you need it with the Samsung SOS+ subscription service.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Barr, Artificial Intelligence and the Labor Market: A Scenario-Based Approach

    Source: US State of New York Federal Reserve

    Thank you for the opportunity to speak to you today.1 In my remarks, I would like to address a key question facing economists, policymakers, and people all over the world: How will artificial intelligence, particularly generative artificial intelligence, or GenAI, affect workers and the labor market in the years ahead?
    Before I turn to that issue, I’d like to touch on a topic that I expect is also of interest: the outlook for the U.S. economy and the implications for monetary policy.
    The U.S. economy entered this quarter in a relatively strong position: The unemployment rate has been low and stable, and the disinflationary process has continued on a gradual, albeit uneven, path towards our 2 percent objective. Private domestic final purchases have been solid. Overall, the economy has been resilient.
    Against that backdrop, the outlook has been clouded by trade policies that have led to an increase in uncertainty, contributing to declines in measures of consumer and business sentiment. I expect tariffs to lead to higher inflation in the United States and lower growth both in the United States and abroad starting later this year.
    In my view, higher tariffs could lead to disruption to global supply chains and create persistent upward pressure on inflation. Faced with substantial tariffs, businesses will likely change how they source intermediate inputs, and it will take time and investment for them to reroute their distribution networks. Conversely, global trade networks may change rapidly, and some suppliers may not be able to adapt quickly enough to survive these changes. This concern is particularly acute for small businesses, which are less diversified, less able to access credit, and hence more vulnerable to adverse shocks. Small businesses play a vital role in production networks, often providing specialized inputs that can’t easily be sourced elsewhere, and business failures could further disrupt supply chains. As we saw during the pandemic, such disruptions can have large and lasting effects on prices, as well as output.
    I am equally concerned that tariffs will lead to higher unemployment as the economy slows. Thus, the FOMC may be in a difficult position if we were to see both rising inflation and rising unemployment.
    The size and scope of the recent tariff increases are without modern precedent, we don’t know their final form, and it is too soon to know how they will affect the economy. Yet given the economy’s strong starting point and the progress we have made in bringing inflation back toward our 2 percent objective, monetary policy is in a good position to adjust as conditions unfold. Meanwhile, we will also be closely monitoring how technologies like artificial intelligence are being integrated into economic activity and analyzing the implications for how the economy will evolve.
    Let me now return to the longer-term question of how AI will affect the labor market. Debate about machines replacing workers is nothing new, and even artificial intelligence is not particularly new either. AI has, in some form, arguably been around for decades. Computer scientists have been developing machine learning algorithms for many years, and these algorithms have been widely used in commercial applications, such as fraud detection and advertising. Speech and facial recognition are already ubiquitous. These more long-standing forms of AI are continuing to improve, driving progress in domains ranging from finance to medical diagnosis, and becoming so deeply embedded in our daily lives that we scarcely notice them anymore.
    But GenAI promises to go much further. Unlike traditional machine learning techniques, which often focus on relatively simple prediction and classification tasks, the large language models that have emerged in recent years can generate new content—anything from news articles to computer code to images and video to customer service dialogue. Emerging forms of “agentic” AI can undertake complex, multistep tasks—for example, taking a customer through a transaction and then placing an automated order. As AI continues to develop, it will increasingly be combined with physical technologies like autonomous vehicles and advanced robotics, further extending its ability to interact with the real world. And AI may be shaping up to become what the esteemed economist Zvi Griliches called an “invention of a method of inventing” that speeds up the research and development process itself.2
    Growing evidence indicates that AI will be a “general purpose technology”—such as railroads, electricity, or computers—which is characterized by widespread adoption, complementary progress in many downstream applications, and ongoing improvement in the core technology.3 Past general purpose technologies have dramatically improved productivity. So, against this background, the natural question is, what about AI?
    In trying to understand how AI might transform work, it’s useful to consider how it could be applied in individual occupations, each of which comprises a range of tasks that vary in their susceptibility to automation. Like past waves of information technology, AI will substitute for human labor in some tasks, complement human labor in other tasks, and spur the creation of new tasks that humans will perform, at least initially.4 The net effects of AI on employment, both in the aggregate and across demographic and education groups, will depend on the relative size of these offsetting effects.
    A pessimistic view is that AI and robotics could become so capable and cost effective as to render most human labor obsolete, culminating in mass unemployment. Such concerns about technological advances are hardly a novel development. At least since the Luddites of the early 19th century tried to disable textile looms, people have feared that machines would bring about steep declines in employment, wages, and human welfare.5
    Economists have long been skeptical of that view, which suffers from the “lump of labor fallacy”—the presumption that there’s a fixed amount of work to be done, so if machines do it, humans will not.6 New technologies do eliminate some existing occupations, and not all workers benefit from technological change. But technology also creates new occupations, and the many waves of technological advances over the centuries haven’t rendered humans obsolete. For example, many of the tasks that were performed by humans in the 1950s are now performed by computers and robots, and yet the unemployment rate is similar to what it was back then, while the labor force participation rate is higher overall.
    However, the amazing potential capabilities and breadth of applications associated with AI—many of which are already apparent—make it worth asking whether this time may be different. AI holds enormous promise of faster economic growth, advances in human health, and a higher standard of living. But alongside the kinds of labor market disruptions seen in past episodes of revolutionary technological change, we will need to consider the possibility of more sweeping changes in the way we work.
    A Scenario ApproachIn a previous speech, I outlined two hypothetical scenarios describing how AI could evolve.7 In the first scenario, we see only incremental adoption that primarily augments what humans do today but still leads to significant and widespread productivity gains. In the second scenario, we see profound change, in which we extend human capabilities with far-reaching consequences.
    Today, I will apply the same approach to analyze the potential effects of AI on the labor market. Of course, there is tremendous uncertainty about how AI will evolve and how it will affect the economy, as well as society more broadly. Amid this uncertainty, a scenario-based approach can give us a framework for thinking about the potential effects of AI on employment, real wages, and productivity, as well as for considering the possible role that government could play in influencing this transition.
    Scenario 1: Incremental ProgressLet’s start with the “gradual” scenario, in which new AI technologies are adopted at a brisk, but not a breathless, pace or advance quickly at first and then plateau—perhaps because of constraints imposed by computing resources, the exhaustion of novel training data, and rising energy consumption.
    Under this scenario, AI primarily operates by automating some—but not all—tasks within many occupations. We’ve seen some of this task substitution happen already: Computer programmers rely on AI copilots to write code, allowing them to focus on higher-level tasks, while customer support agents can use chatbots to improve and expedite their responses.8 Lawyers draw on GenAI to conduct legal research, while AI-powered safety features improve the performance of human automobile drivers.
    Under this scenario, as foundational models improve, novel use cases are discovered, and businesses continue to integrate AI into their operations, more and more occupations will be affected, and many jobs will use AI tools more intensively. As these technologies improve, even incremental change may allow AI to become accurate and cheap enough to replace some occupations altogether. It’s hard to make predictions at this stage. But a plausible conjecture is that we could see, for example, fewer human programmers, lawyers, or commercial drivers. At the same time, most current occupations would persist in this scenario—albeit in modified and more productive forms.
    Beyond existing occupations, general purpose technologies also encourage the creation of new occupations, fueled by new products and novel ways of doing business. It’s difficult to envision the novel jobs that will replace the ones we might lose to an incremental AI scenario. But one possibility is that the future could bring us managers of AI agents, specialists in human–AI collaboration, ethicists, safety experts, and large numbers of people involved in adopting, maintaining, and educating about AI tools. Technology, and how we use a particular innovation, evolves in unpredictable ways, and we should expect to be surprised.
    Under this scenario, jobs remain plentiful, real wages are buoyed by productivity gains, and employment and labor force participation remain high and could even rise, if strong wage growth entices new labor market entrants and if improvements in health care increase work capacity among older or disabled individuals. If the widespread adoption of AI proceeds gradually, then workers will have time to adjust, reducing the disruption to the labor market—though, as with previous general purpose technologies, AI would likely imply that some groups of workers experience a painful process of dislocation and transition.
    Retraining could help here. A recent survey carried out by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York found that many businesses plan to retrain their workers to use AI rather than laying them off.9 In some cases, AI may disrupt career ladders by automating many entry-level tasks—such as reviewing legal documents or drafting code—that were historically performed by early-career workers. But if labor demand changes slowly enough, students and workers are more likely to have time to predict which skills will be marketable and to make and recoup human capital investments before their skills become obsolete.
    What about the effect of AI on inequality? Some research suggests that GenAI may help less-productive workers catch up to their more-productive peers.10 That said, the AI economy will likely put a premium on digital skills, facility with new technologies, and adaptability. The precedent of the computer revolution suggests that highly educated workers may benefit most, boosting wage inequality—a phenomenon called “skill-biased technological change.”11 Another possibility is that the labor share of income could decline, if capital owners benefit more than wage earners—for example, because the gains accruing from AI adoption go to large, highly capitalized firms whose technical capabilities, consumer networks, and training data allow them to develop state-of-the-art AI techniques.
    Scenario 2: TransformationNow let’s consider an alternative scenario in which AI completely transforms the economy. As I described in my earlier speech, in this transformative scenario, humans employ AI to unleash their imagination and creativity—combined with robust investment in research and development—to make rapid breakthroughs that have the potential to improve our lives. With growth propelled by swift technological progress, society’s resources would be vastly expanded, AI would spur revolutionary advances in health, and many individuals would enjoy more time for leisure activities.
    Indeed, transformative AI could bring about a state of affairs that John Maynard Keynes famously envisioned almost a hundred years ago, one in which there are “ever larger and larger classes and groups of people from whom problems of economic necessity have been practically removed.”12 At the same time, transformative AI could imply a much smaller role for human labor—a development that would entail sweeping social changes and profound challenges for government.
    Under this scenario, AI would take over a broad range of existing jobs. As economist Anton Korinek writes, “AI systems advance toward mastering all forms of cognitive work that can be performed by humans, including new tasks that don’t even exist yet.”13 Building on developments we are already starting to see, improved chatbots and AI agents would outperform their human counterparts in activities ranging from customer support to medical diagnosis. Along similar lines, advanced robotics could increasingly substitute for human workers in manual and production jobs. Widespread automation would bring many benefits. The availability and quality of many services could increase markedly, and many less-desirable jobs—such as those involving tedious tasks or dangerous working conditions—could be transferred to machines.
    What jobs would exist in this more transformative scenario? As in the more gradual scenario—and just as has happened in the past, when earlier general purpose technologies were adopted—we would see the emergence of new occupations. These would notably include jobs that involve managing the new AI-dominated economy. In addition, some existing occupations would likely persist, at least for some time. This would be the case for three key reasons. First, some jobs may prove especially hard to automate. For example, plumbers and mechanics rely on physical dexterity and adaptability to situations—attributes that machines may find difficult to replicate, or to replicate cheaply. Second, in some contexts, consumers may insist on a human touch. Patients may still want human doctors and therapists, while parents may want human teachers and caregivers to look after their children. Third, even when AI has the technical capability to carry out tasks, some jobs are likely to be protected by laws and regulations. For example, legal and political systems would likely continue to insist on human judges and elected officials. Eventually, however, an increasing share of current jobs may be automated. The technological frontier is moving quickly, consumers’ preferences may change as they become more comfortable interacting with AI, and the regulatory landscape could evolve to provide broader roles for AI.
    It’s difficult to say how many jobs will exist under transformative AI. On the one hand, it’s possible that—as has happened so often in the past—the economy will find inventive new ways to keep most people employed. On the other hand, there are concerns that some workers could experience a large enough decline in their earnings potential that paid work may no longer be an available option. Employment and labor force participation could fall; displaced workers may grapple with a loss of daily routines, social connectedness, and the meaning they derived from employment. The risk of a significant decline in employment looms large in many people’s concerns about AI, and it’s important for policymakers to be attentive to that risk.
    Even if AI ultimately creates as many jobs as it eliminates, we should expect that the transition will be difficult. Existing firms would likely reorganize their production, laying off workers in the process. They could also lose market share to technologically sophisticated start-ups, which could scale up with a minimal number of human workers managing AI subordinates.14 Many displaced workers would have obsolete skills, and skill mismatch could lead to a structural increase in unemployment as these workers retool for new occupations. It is possible that unemployment might rise only temporarily. It is also possible, however, that more sustained increases could be observed. That would be the case if technology continued to evolve too quickly for many workers to keep up, leading to continual churn and ongoing dislocation.
    How might transformative AI affect income inequality? Both traditionally high-wage occupations, such as lawyers and financial professionals, and lower-wage occupations, such as factory and retail workers, could be automated, and it is difficult to predict how AI would affect wage structures. But the largest wage gains would likely go to the highest-skilled workers, as they would be best positioned to implement frontier technologies and help oversee the AI economy. In addition, if capital owners are the main beneficiaries, the labor share of income could decline precipitously.
    Transformative AI could bring about profound improvements in living standards, leisure opportunities, and human health. At the same time, society would confront profound distributional changes and potential challenges. Much would depend on how broadly the economic benefits are shared, how policymakers respond, and how society adapts to the rapid pace of change.
    How Will We Know Which Future We Are Living in?The world looks very different across these two scenarios. As AI spreads throughout the economy, how will we know which world we’re living in, particularly in view of the likelihood that AI adoption will proceed at different rates in different occupations and industries?
    First, we will need to track how many businesses are using AI and how it is affecting their operations. Recent surveys give different impressions about AI adoption thus far, but they consistently show rapid increases in usage over time.15
    Second, we will need to monitor AI’s evolving technological capabilities. AI developers test their models against human performance in benchmark activities like standardized tests and visual tasks. Results of these tests will continue to provide important clues about which activities, and thus which occupations, are at risk of being automated. Along these lines, economists have already developed measures of occupations’ exposure to automation. They have based these measures on the characteristics of the tasks involved in different occupations.16 Of course, as the set of tasks that AI can perform expands, these measures can be updated accordingly.
    A third way to judge how AI is changing the economy is that data on job openings will likely be a leading indicator of changes in labor demand. What kinds of jobs are employers creating? What skills do they cite in job ads?17
    And, lastly, job growth by occupation and industry is likely to reflect the emerging effects of AI. So far, the imprint of AI is difficult to discern in the employment statistics, but that is likely to change. It may be difficult to disentangle the effects of AI from the other determinants of employment growth, especially in real time. But in the event of truly sweeping changes in the occupational structure, the effects of AI should show up in the data.
    Looking AheadWhat do these two scenarios imply for society? In scenario 1, the issues that society has to address will be more straightforward. Policymakers will have to decide how to regulate emergent technologies, education and training programs will have to be tailored to shifts in labor demand, and some labor market regulations may need to be updated. In scenario 2, the issues that society will need to address will be more profound. Questions will include how to ensure that the economic gains associated with AI are broadly shared across individuals and households, and how to adapt social institutions to a world in which many more individuals in their prime working years may be working less. Fortunately, although this second scenario would entail many difficult challenges, it also implies a world in which society has many more resources to deploy against those challenges.
    Those are some of the big questions that society may need to grapple with in the future, and most of these questions are not those that will be primarily addressed by monetary policymakers. As a central banker, I can speak more specifically about how structural changes in the economy related to AI could affect monetary policy considerations—in particular, the Federal Reserve’s dual mandate to promote maximum employment and stable prices. Monetary policy considerations could be affected in many ways; I will limit myself to two prominent possibilities.
    First, AI may require monetary policymakers to reassess our estimates of the natural rate of unemployment, which informs our assessment of the cyclical state of the economy and thus the appropriate stance of monetary policy. The natural rate, which we call u*, is the unemployment rate that corresponds to the maximum level of employment that can be maintained without producing undesirably high inflation. Among other things, u* depends on the efficiency with which matches are formed between workers and firms, and it could rise if shifts in labor demand across industries and occupations lead to skill mismatch and lengthy unemployment spells as workers retrain and switch careers. The natural rate also depends on the demographic composition of the labor force, which AI could affect. If AI shifts the workforce toward groups that have higher labor force attachment but lower unemployment rates (such as college graduates), the result could be downward pressure on u*. It should be stressed that u* is never directly observed and is difficult to discern in real time. But economists use a wide range of models to estimate the natural rate, and we can use those models to see how u* is changing as AI is adopted more widely.18
    Another related consideration relevant for monetary policy is how economic changes due to AI will affect the neutral interest rate, or r*, which is the level of the real interest rate consistent with the economy being at its potential and inflation being at our 2 percent objective. Economic theory suggests that a permanently higher growth rate of productivity, of the kind that might arise under either AI scenario, tends to raise r*. When that happens, a higher real interest rate would be required to deliver any desired monetary policy stance. A challenge that we face is that it is difficult to work out in real time how r* is evolving. But we can make judgments about developments in the behavior of r* by monitoring the relationship between economic activity and interest rates and by using financial market information to estimate longer-run real interest rates.
    ConclusionI’ll return to the broader point and conclude. AI is poised to transform our economy, likely in profound ways. But the speed and extent of that transformation are not yet clear. AI is likely to boost productivity, increase scientific discovery, and transform the nature of work. How these developments unfold will have important implications for society and for central bankers.

    1. The views expressed here are my own and are not necessarily those of my colleagues on the Federal Reserve Board or the Federal Open Market Committee. Return to text
    2. See page 502 in Zvi Griliches (1957), “Hybrid Corn: An Exploration in the Economics of Technological Change,” Econometrica, vol. 25 (October), pp. 501–22. See also Iain M. Cockburn, Rebecca Henderson, and Scott Stern (2019), “The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Innovation: An Exploratory Analysis,” in Ajay Agrawal, Joshua Gans, and Avi Goldfarb, eds., The Economics of Artificial Intelligence: An Agenda (Chicago: University of Chicago Press), pp. 115–48, and Martin Neil Baily, David M. Byrne, Aidan T. Kane, and Paul E. Soto (forthcoming), “Generative AI at the Crossroads: Light Bulb, Dynamo, or Microscope,” Brookings Institution working paper. Return to text
    3. The term “general purpose technology” is typically abbreviated to GPT. To avoid confusion with ChatGPT, I will continue to use the longer term. For a definition and discussion of past general purpose technologies, see Timothy F. Bresnahan and Manuel Trajtenberg (1995), “General Purpose Technologies ‘Engines of Growth’?” Journal of Econometrics, vol. 65 (January), pp. 83–108. For a discussion of whether earlier AI techniques already meet these criteria, see Avi Goldfarb, Bledi Taska, and Florenta Teodoridis (2023), “Could Machine Learning Be a General Purpose Technology? A Comparison of Emerging Technologies Using Data from Online Job Postings,” Research Policy, vol. 52 (January), 104653. For a discussion of GenAI specifically, see Tyna Eloundou, Sam Manning, Pamela Mishkin, and Daniel Rock (2023), “GPTs Are GPTs: An Early Look at the Labor Market Impact Potential of Large Language Models,” (PDF) March 17 (revised August 22). For a contrasting view that AI will have only modest effects on productivity over the next 10 years, see Daron Acemoglu (2025), “The Simple Macroeconomics of AI,” Economic Policy, vol. 40 (January), pp. 13–58. Return to text
    4. See Daron Acemoglu and Pascual Restrepo (2019), “Automation and New Tasks: How Technology Displaces and Reinstates Labor,” Journal of Economic Perspectives, vol. 33 (Spring), pp. 3–30. Return to text
    5. As David Autor writes, “There have been periodic warnings in the last two centuries that automation and new technology were going to wipe out large numbers of middle class jobs. The best-known early example is the Luddite movement of the early 19th century, in which a group of English textile artisans protested the automation of textile production by seeking to destroy some of the machines.” See page 3 in David H. Autor (2015), “Why Are There Still So Many Jobs? The History and Future of Workplace Automation,” Journal of Economic Perspectives, vol. 29 (Summer), pp. 3–30. Return to text
    6. For example, see textbook discussions of automation and unemployment by Paul A. Samuelson (1964), Economics: An Introductory Analysis, 6th ed. (New York: McGraw-Hill), pp. 333–37; and James D. Gwartney and Richard Stroup (1982), Economics: Private and Public Choice, 3rd ed. (New York: Academic Press), pp. 518–19. Return to text
    7. See Michael S. Barr (2025), “Artificial Intelligence: Hypothetical Scenarios for the Future,” speech delivered at the Council on Foreign Relations, New York, February 18. See also Anton Korinek and Donghyun Suh (2024), “Scenarios for the Transition to AGI,” NBER Working Paper Series 32255 (Cambridge, Mass.: National Bureau of Economic Research, March). Return to text
    8. For evidence that GenAI increases the productivity of human programmers, see Sida Peng, Eirini Kalliamvakou, Peter Cihon, and Mert Demirer (2023), “The Impact of AI on Developer Productivity: Evidence from GitHub Copilot,” (PDF) February 13. For similar evidence regarding customer support agents, see Erik Brynjolfsson, Danielle Li, and Lindsey Raymond (2025), “Generative AI at Work,” Quarterly Journal of Economics, vol. 140 (May), pp. 889–942. Return to text
    9. See Jaison R. Abel, Richard Deitz, Natalia Emanuel, and Benjamin Hyman (2024), “AI and the Labor Market: Will Firms Hire, Fire, or Retrain?” Federal Reserve Bank of New York, Liberty Street Economics (blog), September 4. Among surveyed businesses in New York and New Jersey, about half of businesses that planned to use AI within the next six months expected to retrain their current staff to use AI. Return to text
    10. See Shakked Noy and Whitney Zhang (2023), “Experimental Evidence on the Productivity Effects of Generative Artificial Intelligence,” Science, July 13, vol. 381 (6654), pp. 187–92. Return to text
    11. See Claudia Goldin and Lawrence F. Katz (2008), The Race between Education and Technology (Cambridge: Harvard University Press). Return to text
    12. See page 372 in John Maynard Keynes (1930), “Economic Possibilities for Our Grandchildren,” in Essays in Persuasion (New York: W.W. Norton & Company, 1963), pp. 358–73. Return to text
    13. See page 9 in Anton Korinek (2024), “The Economics of Transformative AI,” (PDF) Reporter, no. 4 (Cambridge, Mass.: National Bureau of Economic Research), pp. 9–12. Return to text
    14. See Erin Griffith (2025), “A.I. Is Changing How Silicon Valley Builds Start-Ups,” New York Times, February 20. See also Microsoft (2025), 2025: The Year the Frontier Firm Is Born, Work Trend Index Annual Report, April 23, https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/worklab/work-trend-index/2025-the-year-the-frontier-firm-is-born. Return to text
    15. For a summary of recent survey evidence on AI adoption, see Leland Crane, Michael Green, and Paul Soto (2025), “Measuring AI Uptake in the Workplace,” FEDS Notes (Washington: Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, February 5). Across six firm-level surveys, the share of respondents using some form of AI ranges widely—from 5 to 40 percent—likely in part reflecting differences in sample composition, question wording, and the period over which AI usage is measured. Across 10 individual-level surveys, usage of GenAI generally ranges between 20 and 40 percent, with much higher rates among computer programmers. Return to text
    16. For examples of this approach, see Carl Benedikt Frey and Michael A. Osborne (2017), “The Future of Employment: How Susceptible Are Jobs to Computerisation?” Technological Forecasting and Social Change, vol. 114 (January), pp. 254–80; Erik Brynjolfsson, Tom Mitchell, and Daniel Rock (2018), “What Can Machines Learn, and What Does It Mean for Occupations and the Economy?” AEA Papers and Proceedings, vol. 108 (May), pp. 43–47; Edward W. Felten, Manav Raj, and Robert Seamans (2018), “A Method to Link Advances in Artificial Intelligence to Occupational Abilities,” AEA Papers and Proceedings, vol. 108 (May), pp. 54–57; and Eloundou, Manning, Mishkin, and Rock, “GPTs Are GPTs” (see note 3). Return to text
    17. See Daron Acemoglu, David Autor, Jonathon Hazell, and Pascual Restrepo (2022), “Artificial Intelligence and Jobs: Evidence from Online Vacancies,” Journal of Labor Economics, vol. 40 (April), pp. S293–340. Return to text
    18. See Brandyn Bok, Richard K. Crump, Christopher J. Nekarda, and Nicolas Petrosky-Nadeau (2023), “Estimating Natural Rates of Unemployment: A Primer,” (PDF) Working Paper Series 2023-25 (San Francisco: Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco, August). One approach for estimating u* is to aggregate across demographic groups that differ in their average unemployment rates over long periods. Another common approach is to estimate state-space models that incorporate a Phillips curve relationship between unemployment and inflation, as in Thomas Laubach (2001), “Measuring the NAIRU: Evidence from Seven Economies,” Review of Economics and Statistics, vol. 83 (May), pp. 218–31. In addition, assessments of the natural rate can be informed by models that yield estimates of matching efficiency, such as Regis Barnichon and Andrew Figura (2015), “Labor Market Heterogeneity and the Aggregate Matching Function,” American Economic Journal: Macroeconomics, vol. 7 (October), pp. 222–49; and Hie Joo Ahn and Leland D. Crane (2020), “Dynamic Beveridge Curve Accounting,” Finance and Economics Discussion Series 2020-027 (Washington: Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, March). Return to text

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Smarter bins and cleaner streets because we Love Norwich

    Source: City of Norwich

    As part of the Love Norwich initiative more than 72 bins have been replaced, refurbished or newly installed across Norwich city centre.

    This work is part of a wider effort to tackle littering, improve recycling rates and reduce environmental impact.​

    Keeping the streets of Norwich litter free and places to be proud of is a top priority and thanks to £76k in funding from the HM Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund we’ve been able to overhaul bins across the key areas of the city such as around Marks and Spencer and the railway station.

    Of the 72 bins, 39 new silver dual bins have been installed, 10 black dual bins purchased, and 23 traditional cast iron bins have been refurbished and returned to service.

    All new dual bins feature clearly marked green openings for recycling, designed wide enough to accept empty pizza boxes, a common cause of blockages and overflowing bins in the past. These bins will help reduce contamination and encourage people to separate their waste more easily and conveniently.​

    Recycling rates from these bins will be closely monitored, and further improvements will be considered where needed.​

    Councillor Emma Hampton, portfolio holder for the environment, said:​

    “It’s vital that we keep our city clean, safe and looking its best, and bins play a bigger part in that than people might realise. This work is about more than just replacements. It’s a real step forward in how we manage waste in the city centre, and it supports our wider goals for recycling, sustainability and quality of life.“​

    Outside the main city centre, black dual bins have been installed to replace smaller or damaged ones, particularly those affected by flyposting and vape stickers. These larger-capacity bins will reduce the risk of overflow, cut down on fly-tipping and mean fewer collection visits are needed helping to reduce unnecessary vehicle movement in the city.

    Unused cast iron bins have also been given a new lease of life. Repainted in traditional Norwich green and gilded with gold lettering.

    This work draws on the expertise of colleagues at Norwich City Services Ltd (NCSL), who have ensured every installation is in the best location to support cleaner streets and less littering.​

    Bins are emptied up to three times a day, seven days a week, with the frequency carefully monitored and adjusted based on how much they’re being used.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HyD holds sharing session on Hong Kong’s major transport infrastructure projects to exchange innovative engineering experiences with Mainland counterparts in Shanghai (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Director of Highways, Mr Tony Yau, today (May 9) led a department delegation in a sharing session on Hong Kong’s major transport infrastructure projects with Mainland counterparts in Shanghai to jointly exchange innovative experiences in implementing transport infrastructure works. The sharing session attracted the participation of many Mainland counterparts, who came from more than 20 contractors, light-rail manufacturers, railway operators, design institutes, etc which are respectively central state-owned enterprises, state-owned enterprises and civilian-run enterprises, including China Railway Group Limited, China Road and Bridge Corporation, China Railway Construction Corporation Limited represented by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation, CRRC Nanjing Puzhen Company Limited, CRRC Qingdao Sifang Company Limited, CRRC Zhuzhou Institute Company Limited, BYD Company Limited, Shanghai Shenkai Public Transport Operation Management Company Limited, and Shanghai Municipal Engineering Design Institute (Group) Company Limited, etc.

         At the sharing session, the Highways Department (HyD) introduced the major findings of the Strategic Studies on Railways and Major Roads beyond 2030, which covered cross-boundary railway projects (the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Western Rail Link (Hung Shui Kiu-Qianhai) and the Northern Link Spur Line); smart and green mass transit systems (the East Kowloon Line and the South Island Line (West)); and strategic route projects (the Northern Metropolis Highway and Route 11) being planned and implemented by the department to the Mainland counterparts. The attendees were very interested in the implementation of these projects.

         The HyD will soon seek funding approval for the investigation and design work of the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Western Rail Link (Hung Shui Kiu-Qianhai) project from the Legislative Council. Government Engineer of Railway Development Mr Thomas Sze said at the sharing session that the preliminary design of the project would commence in the second half of 2025, while at the same time the department would invite relevant contractors and operators to submit expressions of interest to provide their views on project proposals, procurement and financial agreements, so as to facilitate the department in ascertaining the market’s interest and capability in the construction and operation of the project, thereby formulating appropriate tender specifications and terms. Mr Sze appealed for active participation of interested parties and added that the HyD would strive to award the works contract and commence the detailed design and construction works between 2027 and 2028, with a view to completing the works and achieving simultaneous commissioning of the Hong Kong section and the Shenzhen section by 2034 to 2035. In addition, the HyD is actively exploring with Mainland counterparts to adopt Mainland design standards and construction specifications in the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Western Rail Link (Hung Shui Kiu-Qianhai) project as a cross-boundary railway project, as well as the arrangement of introducing Mainland new machineries, construction materials and innovative construction technologies in the project, with an aim to further achieving savings in construction costs and compressing construction time.

         Mr Yau said that the teams of Hong Kong’s major infrastructure projects have always possessed the features of internationalisation, with many major infrastructures jointly designed and constructed by leading local and global engineering firms in the past. He hoped that the department would adopt a “technological innovation” and “policy innovation” dual-innovation mindset and approach to attract more Mainland enterprises to participate in the implementation of Hong Kong’s infrastructure projects, thereby introducing advanced and innovative construction technologies as well as new construction materials and machineries from the Mainland, while integrating the unique experience of the local engineering talent in responding to environmental challenges in Hong Kong, allowing the engineering sectors on the Mainland and in Hong Kong to jointly capitalise on their respective strengths and join hands to lead the development of Hong Kong’s engineering technology to new heights, thus achieving the goal of further shortening construction times and reducing construction costs.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Toobit in Dubai: Championing Crypto Culture as CFN Official Sponsor

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    GEORGE TOWN, Cayman Islands, May 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In a city known for its innovation and world-class events, Toobit‘s sponsorship of Crypto Fight Night (CFN) Dubai 2025 on 1 May this year showcased the exciting connection between blockchain, entertainment, and community building.

    Held in conjunction with TOKEN2049, CFN Dubai 2025 combined sports and blockchain, attracting a global audience during one of the busiest weeks in the crypto calendar.

    Not unlike TOKEN2049, the event also provided a powerful platform for athletes, creators, and crypto leaders to unite—reflecting the qualities of resilience, precision, and performance that align with Toobit’s vision for the digital asset space.

    Crypto Culture Comes Alive

    Alongside co-sponsors memecoin BONK, stablecoin Solstice, and blockchain venture Ghaf Studios, the award-winning exchange’s presence at CFN Dubai 2025 is perhaps also representative of where and how crypto subculture is headed. No longer confined to sterile conference halls or technical panels, blockchain is finding expression in arenas, festivals, and entertainment venues.

    A large part of that is due to crypto’s inherent demographic. Mostly young, digitally native, and culturally fluent, this generation is building their identities around the assets they’re investing in. They want to see their values reflected in the events that merge tech, lifestyle, and high-energy storytelling. And CFN Dubai 2025 delivered exactly that.

    It was also an opportunity to engage directly with users, creators, and builders in one of the world’s most energized digital hubs. By supporting the event and introducing crypto to the wider sports demographic, the cryptoasset platform was able to enhance the visibility of blockchain applications, reaching over 20,000 concurrent viewers across the official livestream and separate watch parties hosted by the sponsors.

    The Highlight

    A highlight of CFN Dubai 2025 was the match between Brian Rose, “The OG”, and Modrick Buck, “The Warrior”.

    Brian, 53, is an American-born British podcaster based in London. He is a digital finance advocate and even ran for Mayor of London. Brian hosts London Real, a podcast and former YouTube channel he started in 2011. He made his debut entrance into pro boxing during the match.

    29-year-old Modrick Buck, a young musician and boxer, faced Brian in the ring. In the blue corner, he was eager to add another win to his professional record.

    “The Warrior” was not able to get the first round knockout that he predicted, with “The OG” holding strong till the end of the match.

    After three intense rounds, Modrick Buck claimed a tight victory with scores of 30-27, 30-27, and 28-29 from the three judges.

    Built on Partnerships

    Despite having no operations nor office in Dubai, Toobit’s attendance at TOKEN2049 and CFN Dubai this year was one stop on a broader journey across the globe.

    Earlier, the digital asset exchange sponsored Web3 Amsterdam, an annual event that brings together Web3 enthusiasts, innovators, and industry leaders to explore the latest trends and foster collaboration in the Netherlands.

    Toobit is set to grace the picturesque city again later this month as a platinum sponsor of Dutch Blockchain Week 2025, continuing its expanding presence in one of Europe’s most innovative blockchain hubs.

    The exchange has also recently been named Best Crypto Exchange MENA 2025 at the World Business Outlook Awards.

    With a newly acquired Polish license issued by the Polish Financial Supervision Authority (KNF), Toobit’s regulatory path continues to evolve alongside their global user base, empowering users and communities with real tools, transparent systems, and meaningful participation.

    What’s Next for Toobit?

    Global expansion continues to be on the cards for Toobit, who has prioritized building its foundations over the promises of hype often found in crypto.

    The exchange uses a transparent system, with a publicly verified proof-of-reserves that is independently checked by third-party firms. These include blockchain security experts like Hacken, Beosin, and Elliptic, who conduct regular security assessments.

    CFN Dubai 2025 brought this vision to life. From the fighters in the ring to the fans in the stands, the event displayed the same resilience and strategy that define successful traders and teams in the Web3 space.

    Toobit is not just building technology. True to its motto of giving “A Bit More Than Crypto”, it’s shaping the communities behind it as a fast-growing global crypto exchange.

    As crypto enters a new era of global adoption, Toobit remains focused on providing a secure, seamless, and user-friendly trading experience.

    Disclaimer: Toobit does not currently offer any virtual asset services in the UAE and is not licensed by the Dubai Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA). Toobit will only provide such services, if any, in Dubai after receiving required licenses from VARA.

    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
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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: One year to go until the Scottish Parliament election

    Source: Scottish National Party

    Thank you Mairi for that kind introduction.

    You are such a valued member of the SNP family, and it has been wonderful to hear how well your own family is doing.

    And to my dear friend Keith, your SNP family are so full of love and admiration for you right now.

    I’ve been over in Hamilton a lot in the last few weeks to support our fantastic candidate Katy Loudon, and I’ve lost count of how many people have spoken to me of Christina with such deep affection.

    Friends, there is no better tribute that we can pay to our dear colleague Christina McKelvie than campaigning to honour her legacy, to win in her beloved Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse, and fulfil her dream of an independent Scotland.

    Friends,

    It’s hard to believe a year has passed since I became Scotland’s First Minister.

    A week may well be a long time in politics, but paradoxically the last 52 weeks have flown by in no time at all.

    Every moment has been an absolute privilege to serve Scotland.

    When I joined the SNP as a teenager, it was in the midst of economic turmoil, a cost of living crisis and huge global uncertainty.

    But I looked around me, and I was convinced that Scotland had the talented people and the immense resources to face those obstacles head-on.

    The world of 2025 feels very uncertain too – and times are really tough for a lot of people.

    But do you know what?

    I am not fazed by the challenges in front of us.

    What I believed back then, I am more convinced than ever
    Scotland has what it takes to be a successful independent country.

    When I look back over my first twelve months as First Minister …

    When I think of all the truly inspirational people around Scotland I have been so lucky to meet….

    …The entrepreneurs, the carers, the innovators, the problem-solvers, the educators and the community activists…

    …I know that there is nothing wrong with Scotland that cannot be fixed by what is right in Scotland.

    Today we are here to discuss how we move forward as a nation.

    In exactly a year’s time, people will be going to the polls in a crucial Scottish Parliament election.

    And friends, with your help I intend to bring Scotland together
    I want to us to unite around a shared vision and a common purpose.

    A determination to build a Scotland where we can all feel at home.

    Where no child is left behind.

    And where everyone can reach their potential.

    Friends,

    We know that when the SNP does well, Scotland does well

    So let us resolve today – in 2026, the SNP are going to win for Scotland.

    I want to start today with a big thank you – to all of you.

    Over these last few months, we have rolled up our sleeves and worked harder than ever for the country we serve.

    Our MSPs, our MPs, our Councillors, our activists and our fantastic candidates here with us today – all of us are putting our shoulder to the wheel.

    We have come together, and we are getting back to what we do best – delivering for the people of Scotland

    And thanks to all your hard work, the SNP is back on the front foot.

    So friends, let us build on that momentum.

    Let us redouble our efforts to work together, each and every day, to make Scotland the better country we know it can be.

    We are winning back the trust of the people of Scotland because we are showing them that we are truly focussed on their priorities.

    People tell us they are worried about the cost of living – and we are listening.

    South of the border, Labour are charging people for university tuition and many other public services. The SNP are guaranteeing to keep them free in Scotland.

    That is the SNP – delivering for Scotland.

    Pensioners are telling us that they are worried about how they’ll heat their homes this winter – and the SNP are listening.

    Labour may not think older people deserve support during a cost of living crisis, but we do.

    Pensioners were betrayed by Labour.

    But under the SNP, every single pensioner in Scotland will receive a winter fuel payment this year.

    That is the SNP – delivering for Scotland.

    And friends, commuters tell us the cost of rail travel is still a real issue for them – and we are listening.

    In this cost of living crisis, people in Scotland rightly expect their government to step up.

    So we have looked again at the issue of rail fares.

    And the SNP are scrapping peak rail fares for good.

    That is the SNP – delivering for Scotland.

    And friends, people are telling us they are struggling to access the NHS or get appointments with their GP – and we are listening.

    We’re investing, we’re rolling out new technology and we’re expanding specialist regional centres.

    Over the last year, there have been dramatic falls in some of the longest waits, as well as a 50% increase in surgical procedures such as hip and knee replacements.

    Just yesterday, I announced the delivery of an extra 100,000 appointments in GP surgeries and 150,000 additional appointments and procedures in our hospitals to reduce waiting times.

    That is the SNP  – delivering for Scotland.

    And friends, people tell us they want every child in Scotland to get the best start in life – and the SNP is listening.

    Under our watch, Scotland is the only part of the UK where child poverty is falling.

    Where other governments are stepping back, the SNP is stepping up.

    Our Scottish Child Payment is still unique in these islands. Labour have chosen not to replicate it.

    And while Labour refuse to scrap the morally unjustifiable two-child cap, the SNP will step up once again.

    We will scrap this cap and keep thousands more children out of poverty

    That is the SNP – delivering for Scotland.

    Friends,

    We have more to do, but the SNP is fully focused on the people’s priorities.

    In a year’s time, when the people of Scotland choose their next government, we will earn their trust by showing them a record of delivery.

    In that election, Labour will be standing on their record too.

    Don’t worry – I’ll make sure of it!

    Like everyone else I was delighted to see the back of the Tories, and I felt more positive when Keir Starmer took office.

    I have done everything I can to work constructively with the new Labour government in the interests of Scotland.

    People in Scotland put their trust in Labour last year – but time and time again, Labour has let them down.

    Pensioners – stripped of their winter fuel payment.

    Households – forced to pay higher energy bills

    Businesses – slapped with Labour’s jobs tax.

    Families – left with no end in sight to cruel Tory welfare policies.

    WASPI women – promised compensation but given nothing.

    Friends,

    Over the last year, the SNP has been doing what we do best – standing up for Scotland.

    Labour have been doing what they do best as well – taking Scotland for granted.

    And in the election next year, be in no doubt – Labour will have to answer for their broken promises.

    Friends,

    For as long as Scotland is under Westminster control, people are entitled to expect that Westminster will give them the same focus as any other part of the UK.

    But here is what Labour deliver.

    They have bent over backwards to support two carbon capture sites in England, but failed to fund the Acorn project in Scotland.

    They’re saving jobs at Scunthorpe while abandoning workers at Grangemouth.

    They’re happy to take Scotland’s energy wealth but refusing to cut our energy bills.

    Labour or Tories, it’s the same old story.

    For Westminster, Scotland is always an afterthought.

    For the SNP, Scotland will always come first.

    Friends,

    If you want to know what happens when governments do not deliver for people, look no further than last week’s local election results south of the border.

    An ill wind of change is blowing through UK politics, and after last week it is no longer fanciful to suggest that Nigel Farage could be Prime Minister in a few years.

    This should be a wake-up call for people across Scotland – but certainly not a surprise.

    Keir Starmer and the Labour party have opened the door to Farage.

    Beacause they have failed to stand up to him.

    Dancing to Farage’s tune on immigration

    Too scared to admit Brexit has been a disaster.

    And alienating communities in England by maintaining Tory austerity cuts.

    That’s what you get with Labour

    At Westminster, Nigel Farage may not be in office – but he is very much in power.

    You don’t beat populists by imitating them.

    You beat them by confronting them.

    We will never do any deals with Farage.

    Only the SNP will confront Farage and defeat Farage.

    It’s often said that the past is a foreign country.

    Well after last week, I think for people in Scotland, the future of the UK is looking increasingly unrecognisable.

    Now more than ever, it falls on the SNP to offer a brighter future.

    I’ve believed for my whole life that the path to that brighter future for Scotland is reached by becoming an independent nation.

    And I’ve always known that we will become independent when a clear majority of people gets behind a common vision for our country’s future.

    Our task – as the party that will guide Scotland to independence – is to create the conditions where that can happen.

    That means getting all of our ducks in a row – and friends, we are doing that.

    When I became SNP Leader, I said we needed to come back together as a movement

    And we have.

    I said we needed to stay true to our values.

    And we are.

    I said we needed to earn the right to be heard.

    And through our hard work, we are earning that right.

    Because we are delivering on Scotland’s priorities.

    And by delivering for people in the here and now, they are more open to receiving our message of hope for Scotland’s future.

    Over the next twelve months, we must deliver our message as far and wide as possible.

    Westminster has scarcely looked more distant from the people of Scotland and their everyday concerns.

    For years, Labour told people in Scotland that they didn’t need independence – we just needed to get rid of the Tories and everything will change.

    No wonder so many people are feeling disaffected and alienated right now.

    The choice is to accept things as they are, or to act differently.

    What surer way to tackle alienation than with the overwhelming sense of empowerment of becoming an independent nation which is ours to create?

    We can build a winning coalition for independence by showing people what that empowerment can lead to.

    The Scotland I want to build is an enterprising, outward-looking and compassionate Scotland – which will flourish with the powers of independence.

    An enterprising nation – which understands that the prosperity of our country rests on ensuring the prosperity of every single one of our citizens.

    An outward-looking nation – where we give to the world everything we can offer, just as we seek from the world everything it can offer us.

    Where we take our rightful place at the top table of Europe.

    And which looks at the global challenges of the age, such as the climate emergency, and asks not “how can we avoid responsibility?” but instead asks “what can we do to help?”

    And a compassionate nation – which sees human rights – including LGBTQI+ rights – not as something to denigrate, but as the bedrock of a society where everyone feels safe and accepted.

    One which doesn’t balance its books on the backs of pensioners, the poor and disabled people – but values them as ourselves, our friends, our family, our neighbours – cherished members of our society.

    That is the Scotland we should aspire to – and that is the Scotland I want to create.

    Friends,

    All of us are here today because fundamentally we believe in something better.

    Even in these uncertain times, we know – beyond any doubt – that Scotland has what it takes to be a thriving successful independent nation.

    Over the next 12 months, our ambition must be to unite as many people as possible behind our vision.

    We must reach people from all walks of life, in every corner of Scotland.

    We must build a winning coalition that is as broad as it is high.

    A year today, I don’t just want to win – I want us to shift the tectonic plates of Scottish politics and create a wave of hope that will overcome Westminster’s wall of despair.

    Friends, we are back on the front foot – so let us take the next steps together.

    When Westminster lets Scotland down, let us lift Scotland up.

    When others seek to divide, let us unite.

    While others tell people in Scotland that they can’t, let us show them how they can.

    The campaign for Scotland’s future starts today.

    So let us get out there and let us win that better future for Scotland.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Is Kenya’s president safe in a crowd? Security expert scans VIP protection checklist

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Douglas Lucas Kivoi, Principal Policy Analyst, Governance Department, The Kenya Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis (KIPPRA)

    Protecting any president requires multiple layers of intelligence, physical security and rapid response security protocols. Exact operational details are classified, but there are global best practices in VIP protection.

    The issue of presidential protection in Kenya has become particularly relevant following an incident in early May 2025 when someone in a crowd threw a shoe at President William Ruto during a public event, hitting his hand.

    I have studied policing and security policies in Kenya for over 15 years, interacting closely with the country’s security protocols. In my view this incident exposed several critical security lapses around the elite officers tasked with protecting the president.

    The security of the president is a critical issue in Kenya. The country is exposed to terror groups like the Somalia-based Al-Shabaab and other criminal networks in the region.

    In 2021, a businessman embedded himself into the presidential motorcade and drove into then president Uhuru Kenyatta’s official residence. In 2017, an unidentified man who was said to have illegally accessed the highly protected state house grounds was shot dead by presidential guards.

    There are multiple layers to Kenya’s protection protocols. They include National Intelligence Service officers, the Kenya Defence Force, Presidential Escort Police officers drawn from the highly trained General Service Unit, bomb disposal experts and regular police officers. Their deployment depends on the nature of the presidential engagement.

    While the shoe incident may be passed off as simply embarrassing, it should serve as a wake-up call to tighten security protocols around the president without necessarily compromising his public engagement with citizens.

    What’s in place

    Prior to any presidential visit across the country, security teams conduct a thorough reconnaissance of the destination. This includes coordinating with local policing agencies, clearing airspace, mapping secure transport routes and identifying nearby medical facilities in case of emergencies.

    Presidential motorcade routes are pre-planned and a dry run is made. This often includes mapping alternative routes to avoid predictability should there be assailants along a presidential route. It is common to see some roads temporarily closed and security officers conducting sweeps for any threats or explosives. In areas deemed high risk, counter security sniper teams are covertly deployed in strategic areas.

    Cases of attacks on presidential motorcades are rare in Kenya. However, in 2002 during presidential campaigns, angry opposition supporters stoned then president Daniel Moi’s motorcade. In November 2021, an angry mob hurled rocks at then deputy president Ruto’s motorcade.

    The National Intelligence Service and Presidential Escort Unit covertly scout locations in advance, assessing potential security vulnerabilities. Crowd sizes, and entry and exit points for the head of state are mapped out in advance.

    In cases where meetings are held in town halls or huge tents, attendees are screened using metal detectors and/or physical searches. Uniformed and plainclothes security officers embed themselves in the crowd to monitor any threats.

    The president and any dignitaries accompanying him have at least three layers of security.

    The inner ring consists of close protection officers who are always within an arm’s length of the president to physically thwart any threats. The middle ring has armed security guards who watch for, among others, sudden movements and abnormal behaviour within the crowd. The outer ring consists of regular police and paramilitary units from the General Service Unit who secure the outside perimeter.

    The presidential motorcade is a coordinated convoy of heavily armoured vehicles. It includes lead and chase cars, communication units and emergency response teams. Traffic is managed by local traffic police officers to ensure unobstructed movement. Routes are kept confidential until necessary.

    The president’s security may opt to use a decoy vehicle if there is a security threat, to confuse and derail potential risk sources. In all these cases, there is a contingent of specialised General Service Unit officers, called the Recce unit, that always accompanies the president.

    Kenya’s presidential security precautions follow standard VIP security protection like those for heads of state across the world. However, in some neighbouring countries, for instance, presidents move in heavily armed military convoys. This has not been seen in Kenya.

    If a potential threat is detected, the president is immediately shielded and whisked away to a secure vehicle or evacuated by air in high-risk events. In such cases, the Kenya Defence Forces secures the president.

    Despite stringent security measures, incidents can occur. For instance, in March 2025, a British tourist was fatally hit by a vehicle in Ruto’s motorcade. This prompted investigations and reviews on motorcade safety protocols.

    Such events highlight the challenges of balancing presidential security with public safety, especially in densely populated urban areas.

    Security failures

    The shoe-throwing incident targeting Ruto highlighted five major failures in presidential protection protocols.

    First, crowd screening and access control failures. The alleged assailant was very close to the president, suggesting an inadequate distance between the crowds and the president. The inner ring of security also failed to spot the perpetrator raising a shoe in the air to use as a projectile. This indicates weak front-row eye sweeps and scans by the president’s security.

    Second, there was an apparent delay in security response. The elite officers around the president should have subdued the alleged attacker within seconds. It could mean most had their eyes on the president or cameras, as opposed to scanning the crowds for any sudden movements.

    Third, security allowed the president to stand too close to a crowd that hadn’t been screened. Best practices require a no-go zone of three to five metres for individuals who have not been scanned or screened.

    Fourth, there was an apparent gap in intelligence and threat assessment. Aggressive or agitated people next to the president should draw the attention of security officers. Plainclothes security officers are usually deployed to monitor crowd behaviour. It isn’t enough to rely on uniformed officers.

    Undercover agents are critical for flagging pre-attack signals, such as nervousness or repeated adjustments of positions.

    Fifth, there was no clear evacuation plan for the president. After the incident, the president continued speaking. In high-risk scenarios, protocols often demand instant relocation of the president to a secure vehicle or helicopter, where the military takes over and airlifts him to safety.

    What should change

    Kenya’s presidential security detail may be forced to:

    • increase standoff distance between the president and crowds

    • deploy more plainclothes officers to blend in and monitor crowds around the president

    • mandate stricter screening of those in close proximity to the president

    • conduct more frequent security risks drills for rapid neutralisation of potential threats.

    The exact details of presidential security in Kenya are confidential. However, the overarching structure aims to provide comprehensive protection to the president while maintaining public safety and order during official engagements. No security protocol is 100% foolproof. But a balance needs to be struck between overly aggressive crowd control and accessibility.

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

    – ref. Is Kenya’s president safe in a crowd? Security expert scans VIP protection checklist – https://theconversation.com/is-kenyas-president-safe-in-a-crowd-security-expert-scans-vip-protection-checklist-256268

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Appointment of Bishop of Carlisle: 9 May 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Appointment of Bishop of Carlisle: 9 May 2025

    The King has approved the nomination of The Right Reverend Robert Saner-Haigh, for election as Bishop of Carlisle

    The King has approved the nomination of The Right Reverend Robert Saner-Haigh, Suffragan Bishop of Penrith in the Diocese of Carlisle, for election as Bishop of Carlisle, in succession to The Right Reverend James William Scobie Newcome, following his retirement.

    Background

    Rob was educated at Birmingham University and trained for ministry at Wycliffe Hall, Oxford.  He served his title at St. Lawrence, Appleby in the Diocese of Carlisle, and was ordained Priest in 2006. He was appointed Diocesan Initial Ministerial Education Officer in 2007 and Diocesan Director of Ordinands in 2008.  Alongside both of these roles he served as Bishop’s Chaplain and Assistant Priest at St. Michael’s, Dalston, with Cumdivock, Raughton Head and Wreay.  In 2010, he was appointed Priest in Charge of Holy Trinity Kendal and, from 2020, served as Director of Mission and Ministry for the Diocese of Newcastle and Residentiary Canon of Newcastle Cathedral.

    In 2022, Rob took up his current role as Suffragan Bishop of Penrith, in the Diocese of Carlisle and, since 2023, he has served as Acting Bishop of Carlisle.

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Three Board Members reappointed to the Museum of the Home

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Three Board Members reappointed to the Museum of the Home

    The Secretary of State has reappointed Alain Clapham, Viscount Charles Colville and Professor Caroline Malone as Board Members of the Museum of the Home for a second term of 3 years, from 4 November 2024 until 3 November 2027.

    Alain Clapham

    Alain ‘Fusion’ Clapham is an award-winning communicator and strategic thinker, recognised for his ability to shape narratives that connect institutions, businesses and communities. With a background in media, digital strategy, and cultural consultancy, he has worked with leading organisations – including YouTube, Historic Royal Palaces, Wellcome Collection and the Department for Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) – to develop innovative approaches to audience engagement and institutional change.

    His work with heritage bodies, brands, educational institutions and corporate leaders has positioned him as a key figure in discussions around cultural representation, public discourse, and strategic transformation. He has advised on projects that bridge policy, digital evolution, and public engagement, ensuring institutions remain both forward-thinking and accessible.

    As the director of BMTstories and SUPERORGANIC, Alain leads cultural platforms that connect audiences and industry through innovative practice and creative empowerment. His work as a public speaker, facilitator and Transformative Storyteller fosters dialogue, learning, and expression across diverse communities.

    Viscount Charles Colville

    Charles Colville is a television producer and Crossbench member of the House of Lords. He is a graduate in Modern History from Durham University. He started his career as a journalist in the West Midlands and went on to work for BBC’s Newsnight programme becoming the Moscow producer during the fall of the Soviet Union. Moving to documentaries he made a wide range of science and history programmes working with museums and heritage organisations around the world.

    He used his experience as a journalist and historical knowledge to create independent, fresh narratives. Since leaving the BBC he has made a series on the role of the Queen in our national life. 

    In the House of Lords he speaks on the media and digital issues amongst other matters. He has supported amendments in the Environment Bill to reduce plastic pollution. As a member of cross-party Communications and Digital Select Committee he has taken part in inquiries on digital regulation and UK public service broadcasting. The current inquiry is into the government’s consultation into the privatisation of Channel 4. He is a great supporter of the Museum of the Home and looks forward to continuing working with the Board of Trustees.

    Professor Caroline Malone

    Caroline Malone studied archaeology and anthropology and undertook research on prehistory in southern Europe, an area where she has continued fieldwork in Malta, Sicily and Italy, most recently leading the ERC funded FRAGSUS Project. She was Curator for English Heritage of the Alexander Keiller Museum, Avebury and an Inspector of Ancient Monuments before commencing an academic career at Bristol, Cambridge and Queen’s University Belfast. She was the editor of Antiquity Journal, and also has served as Keeper of the former department of Prehistoric and Romano British Antiquities at the British Museum, as Senior Tutor of Hughes Hall Cambridge, and as Senior Proctor of Cambridge University.  She is the author of a number of books and papers. She is currently a visiting Professor at Murray Edwards College, Cambridge and  Emeritus Professor of Prehistory at Queen’s University Belfast, and is DCMS Trustee of the Museum of the Home.

    Remuneration and Governance Code

    Board Members of the Museum of the Home are not remunerated. This appointment has been made in accordance with the Cabinet Office’s [Governance Code on Public Appointments].

    The appointments process is regulated by the Commissioner for Public Appointments. Under the Code, any significant political activity undertaken by an appointee in the last five years must be declared. This is defined as including holding office, public speaking, making a recordable donation, or candidature for election. Alain Clapham has not declared any significant political activity. Caroline Malone has declared that she has stood as a candidate for Local Council Elections in Cambridge, Castle Ward for the Liberal Democrats in 2022, 2023 and 2024. She also canvassed on behalf of the Liberal Democrats in Cambridge, Castle Ward in 2022 and 2023. Viscount Colville is a freelance TV producer.

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Major boost for mobile cinema

    Source: Scottish Government

    £500,000 funding to Screen Machine.

    Funding has been announced enabling an order to be placed for a new Screen Machine mobile cinema serving rural communities across Scotland.

    The £500,000 Scottish Government grant allows Regional Screen Scotland (RSS) to order a new vehicle to take films to 44 locations in areas including the Highlands and Islands, Moray and North Ayrshire.

    After the previous 80-seat vehicle was retired in 2023 following 18 years and 250,000 miles on the road, RSS started fundraising for a permanent replacement costing £1.7 million. A leased vehicle is currently continuing the service until April 2026.

    The new machine will be energy efficient with the ability to charge via solar panels and battery packs, instead of a diesel generator.

    Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said:

    “The Screen Machine service is a hugely important asset, bringing cinema to the doorsteps of people in many rural and island communities.

    “It has proved its worth over 26 years, providing entertainment that town and city residents take for granted. In doing so it enriches people’s lives and plays a part in tackling rural depopulation.

    “This grant allows Regional Screen Scotland to order a new, bespoke vehicle able to use Scotland’s ferry network and negotiate our rural roads. I wish the organisation well as it continues efforts to reach its fundraising target.”

    Regional Screen Scotland interim Chief Executive Simon Drysdale said:

    “This generous grant from the Scottish Government completely transforms our fundraising campaign to raise the money required to build a new Screen Machine. We can now plan with greater confidence for a service that will be secured into the 2040s.

    “Heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported our campaign so far, from Screen Scotland to the Arran Trust, customers of the Newtonmore Grill, letter-writing children in Barra and many, many more.”

    Background

    The grant for the Screen Machine comes from the Scottish Government’s Gaelic Capital Fund, which supports developments of benefit to Gaelic-speaking communities.  

    Regional Screen Scotland launched its public fundraising campaign in September 2024. Energy firm SSEN Transmission has already announced it will give £350,000 from its Regional Community Benefit Fund.  Further support has come from actors Alan Cumming and Dame Judi Dench and fundraising continues.

    Around 180,000 tickets have been sold in Highland, Argyll & Bute, Western Isles, Moray, North Ayrshire, Aberdeenshire and Orkney over the last 10 years. In 2024-25 the service showed 51 films at 450 screenings at which it employed a total of 57 local ushers.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China, Russia Propose Model of International Relations and Great Power Cooperation – Joint Statement

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    MOSCOW, May 9 (Xinhua) — China and Russia have proposed a model of new international relations and cooperation between great powers and each other’s largest neighbors, according to a joint statement released here on Thursday.

    A joint statement by China and Russia on further deepening the comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation in the new era was published following talks between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin in the Russian capital.

    The statement noted that relations between China and Russia have reached the highest level in their history and continue to develop confidently and comprehensively.

    China and Russia, as important trading partners of each other, unanimously note that bilateral mutually beneficial cooperation has made a positive contribution to improving the well-being of the peoples of the two countries, the statement said.

    In order to further promote mutually beneficial cooperation, the parties agreed to promote the stable development of bilateral trade and improve the structure of trade turnover, including by increasing the share of high-tech products and developing innovative methods of electronic commerce.

    The two sides will work to deepen investment ties and strengthen the comprehensive energy partnership, the statement said.

    According to the document, the parties will also expand and build up the potential for scientific and technical cooperation, including by forming new areas of cooperation in the field of innovation, fundamental and applied research, organize regular joint competitions and the implementation of scientific research projects, and support the creation of new formats of scientific and technical cooperation.

    The statement said that the two countries will comprehensively deepen multifaceted bilateral practical cooperation and ensure its significant qualitative advancement by 2030 in such areas as trade and economic, customs, agricultural, transport, financial, industrial, environmental cooperation, as well as cooperation in the field of space and satellite navigation, nuclear energy, urban development, healthcare and information and communication technologies. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 8 May 2025 Departmental update Strengthening the PHSM evidence base: a draft resolution welcomed by Non-State Actors

    Source: World Health Organisation

    WHO actively engages with nongovernmental organizations, international business associations and philanthropic foundations – collectively referred to as non-State actors (NSAs) – to support Member States’ effort to advance the public health agenda. In this context, NSAs requested a dedicated opportunity to discuss the draft resolution on Strengthening the evidence base for public health and social measures, with the aim of promoting a shared understanding of the draft resolution and facilitating technical exchanges and collaboration between Member States, NSAs and WHO.

    On 29 April 2025, NSAs, represented by the World Heart Federation and the International Alliance of Patients’ Organizations led a focused webinar to contribute perspectives ahead of the 78th World Health Assembly.

    About the draft resolutio

    Public health and social measures (PHSM) refer to nonpharmaceutical interventions implemented by individuals, communities, institutions and governments to reduce the risk and scale of infectious disease transmission and lower hospitalizations and deaths. As part of Community Protection, the subsystem of the global architecture for health emergency preparedness, prevention, response and resilience, Examples include symptom screening, personal hygiene measures, surface cleaning, vector control, modifications to gatherings, and domestic or international mobility. PHSM, therefore, play a critical role in reducing the pressure on the health care system, buying time to develop and distribute medical countermeasures (MCM) such as vaccines and treatments, thereby saving lives and safeguarding livelihoods. 

    An overview of systematic reviews on the effects of PHSM implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic uncovered that the evidence base is limited to provide robust and reliable evidence-informed guidance on PHSM effectiveness.  

    Norway and several other Member States, therefore, have tabled a draft resolution urging to strengthen research capacities and systems to measure the effectiveness and unintended negative consequences of PHSM implementation, with an emphasis on the importance on behavioral and social change science, community participatory research, supportive ethics and regulatory bodies and the highest level of human research subject protections. Furthermore, the draft resolution underscores the importance of the use of robust evidence to inform decisions on proportionate, relevant and context-specific PHSM policy and implementation.

    An informal session with non-State actors (NSA) held ahead of the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA)

    Panelists from the Centre for Epidemic Interventions Research within Norwegian Institute of Public Health (NIPH), the International Alliance of Patients’ Organizations (IAPO) and WHO, moderated by the World Heart Federation exchanged views on the critical need for better evidence on PHSM during health emergencies, and reflected a diverse perspectives on the opportunities for implementing the draft resolution.

    The panel stressed the resolution’s landmark commitment to building a robust evidence base for PHSM, the importance of expanding the knowledge base not only for PHSM effectiveness research, but also for research on PHSM implementation, adherence, and its unintended consequences. The session underscored the importance of involving non-State actors, particularly CSOs and academia, in both PHSM research and its implementation.

    Panelists and participants also addressed the complexities of conducting rigorous PHSM research during health emergencies, including the need to gain public and political support, navigate ethical and legal constraints on research, and adapt to rapidly evolving nature of health emergencies. The draft resolution aims to catalyze rapid evidence generation during emergencies, integrate behavioral science, ensure transparent data sharing, and uphold ethical oversight especially research subject protection.

    As part of Community Protection, the subsystem of the global architecture for health emergency preparedness, prevention, response and resilience, PHSM research and implementation are pivotal. The resolution reflects a strong commitment to collaboration among Member States, NSAs, and WHO—aiming to advance evidence-informed and equitable PHSM approaches for future health crises.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI: Fast Payout Casinos – JACKBIT Picked as the Fastest Withdrawal Casino Site for 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

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    Disclaimer & Affiliate Disclosure

    This article is for general information and promotional purposes only and shouldn’t be taken as legal, financial, or professional advice. While we aim for accuracy, we can’t guarantee everything is up-to-date or complete. Please double-check details before acting. Some links may be affiliate links, meaning we could earn a commission at no extra cost to you, but this doesn’t affect our content or opinions. Online gambling is for adults of legal age (typically 19+) and carries financial risk. Play responsibly and seek help if needed. Brand names mentioned belong to their respective owners. By reading this, you accept full responsibility for how you use the information.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/39883acb-0c7f-4759-b3eb-1e081b48123e

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Nagano Tonic Complaints Explained: 2025 Nagano Lean Body Tonic User Reviews Analysed & Verified

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LOS ANGELES, May 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    • Why Nagano Lean Body Tonic Is Making Waves in 2025’s Natural Weight Loss Scene
    • Nagano Tonic Complaints: What’s Really Behind the Negative Reviews?
    • Metabolic Biohacking & Thermogenesis: Unlocking Your Body’s Natural Fat-Burning Power
    • Appetite, Digestion, and Energy: The Science Behind EGCG, Inulin, Ashwagandha, and Bitter Melon
    • The Hidden Saboteurs of Weight Loss: Cravings, Stress, Fatigue, and Gut Imbalances
    • Inside the Formula: Ingredient Profile, Claimed Benefits & Where It May Fall Short
    • Cost, Guarantees & Where to Buy: What to Know Before Ordering from the Official Nagano Website
    • Your Top Questions Answered: Side Effects, Results Timeline, Dosage & More
    • Transparency First: Disclaimers, Safety Notes & Smart Supplement Shopping Tips

    Nagano Tonic Complaints Investigated – 2025 User Reviews Verified

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic is emerging as a popular clean-label supplement in 2025, promoted for its natural support of metabolism, appetite control, and energy levels. This article offers a balanced, in-depth look at verified customer reviews, reported complaints, and the science behind its ingredients.

    While it’s not a miracle solution, many users describe steady fat loss, improved energy, and fewer cravings with consistent use. Formulated with well-researched compounds like green tea extract (EGCG), inulin, ashwagandha, and bitter melon, the tonic promotes a holistic approach to weight management by addressing metabolism, digestion, and stress.

    Sold exclusively through the official website, it’s backed by a 180-day money-back guarantee. This review aims to help readers decide whether this trending fat-burning formula delivers real results, without the hype or hidden drawbacks.

    Introduction To Nagano Lean Body Tonic

    In the evolving world of natural weight loss solutions, few products have stirred as much conversation in 2025 as Nagano Lean Body Tonic. Marketed as a metabolism-boosting formula inspired by traditional Japanese wellness principles, this powdered supplement has drawn attention not only for its fat-burning claims but also for a rising number of user reviews, ranging from enthusiastic praise to critical feedback. As interest grows, so does the need for a clear, honest assessment before clicking “buy.”

    Nagano Tonic’s appeal lies in its clean, natural ingredient lineup and its promise to combat stubborn fat, enhance energy, and support wellness—all without synthetic stimulants. But with increased visibility comes scrutiny. Some users have voiced concerns about effectiveness, delayed results, and taste, highlighting the importance of real user experiences in understanding the full picture.

    This article takes a deep dive into the 2025 reviews of Nagano Lean Body Tonic, weighing both the pros and the cons. We’ll also explore common obstacles to lasting weight loss—and how this tonic claims to address them through a modern “biohacking” approach. Biohacking involves optimizing your biology through lifestyle, nutrition, and supplementation—something this formula claims to support through ingredients aimed at metabolism, cravings, and energy levels.

    In a crowded wellness market, transparent, up-to-date analysis is essential. That’s what you’ll find here: a detailed, unbiased, and SEO-friendly breakdown covering everything from ingredient science to pricing and policies, so you can decide whether Nagano Lean Body Tonic is truly worth your time and trust.

    Understanding The Common Weight Loss Challenges

    In 2025, weight loss remains anything but simple. More people are beginning to understand that there’s no universal fix, especially as metabolic health, hormones, and daily habits become more central to long-term success. For those who’ve cycled through countless fat-burning pills, fad diets, and intense workouts only to see minimal or fleeting results, frustration is mounting. To evaluate whether Nagano Lean Body Tonic is a viable solution, it’s essential to first unpack the real challenges of today’s weight loss landscape.

    Why Belly Fat Remains So Stubborn

    For countless men and women, abdominal fat is more than just an aesthetic concern—it’s a deeply persistent issue tied to stress, aging, and a sluggish metabolism. This is one of the hardest areas to lose fat, often resisting even the most disciplined efforts. The search for deeper, metabolism-driven solutions has become a priority.

    That’s where emerging ideas like “thermogenic activation” and “metabolic biohacking” come into play. These modern approaches mark a shift from crash diets to science-informed, natural methods that work with the body, not against it. Nagano Tonic embraces this shift by aiming to realign the body’s metabolic rhythm with plant-based ingredients inspired by traditional Japanese herbal practices. The goal? To promote more efficient fat-burning and sustained wellness.

    While the tonic isn’t a medical treatment, its formula includes natural compounds linked to energy enhancement and metabolic support, factors that could help reduce stubborn fat when combined with healthy habits.

    Cravings, Appetite, and the Dieting Dilemma

    Uncontrolled cravings are a major obstacle to achieving sustainable weight loss. Whether it’s late-night snacking, stress-eating, or blood sugar dips, many people find themselves locked in a cycle of overindulgence followed by guilt and diet restarts. Even the most disciplined low-calorie plans can unravel under the pressure of hunger and emotional triggers.

    This is where natural appetite-regulating ingredients are gaining ground. Compounds like inulin (a gut-friendly prebiotic fiber) and ashwagandha (an adaptogen known for stress balance)—both found in Nagano Tonic—are drawing attention for their potential to curb excessive hunger and support mood stability. While results vary by individual, this approach represents a welcome shift: fueling the body instead of depriving it.

    The Energy-Motivation Connection Often Overlooked

    Fatigue is one of the most underrated barriers to weight loss. When energy runs low, so does motivation to cook, exercise, or stick to goals. Recognizing this link is a game-changer. Instead of relying on caffeine-heavy stimulants that create temporary highs followed by crashes, many health-conscious users are now turning to natural tonics that support daily vitality more sustainably.

    Enter antioxidant-rich superfoods like Camu Camu, Mangosteen, and EGCG from green tea. These aren’t miracle ingredients, but they may contribute to cleaner, more consistent energy when paired with balanced routines. Nagano Lean Body Tonic leans into this philosophy, combining plant-based energy support with a metabolism-friendly formula, offering users a gentler, more holistic alternative to traditional weight loss aids.

    Gut Health, Inflammation, and the Weight Loss Connection

    In 2025, a growing body of research continues to highlight a key—but often overlooked—factor in weight loss resistance: gut health. Imbalances in gut microbiota can lead to chronic inflammation, bloating, sluggish digestion, and intensified sugar cravings—all of which hinder fat loss efforts. As awareness grows, prebiotics and digestive-friendly compounds are gaining mainstream attention. Nagano Lean Body Tonic taps into this trend with ingredients like inulin and ginger, both recognized for their potential to support digestive health and promote a healthier internal environment.

    While these natural compounds are not a replacement for medical treatment, they may serve as a valuable part of a broader wellness routine. The emerging concept of the gut-brain-weight axis—how digestion, mental health, and metabolism are interconnected—is becoming a cornerstone in modern weight management. Formulas that address this triad holistically are earning recognition for their multi-pronged approach to wellness.

    Why Addressing These Core Issues Matters

    Understanding the real barriers to weight loss is more than just identifying what’s going wrong—it’s about aligning with solutions that work with your body, not against it. Nagano Lean Body Tonic appears tailored to meet these challenges, blending the time-tested wisdom of Eastern wellness practices with today’s nutritional science. This makes it an appealing option for those seeking to rebalance their system naturally, without turning to harsh stimulants or restrictive regimens.

    In the next section, we’ll explore how Nagano Tonic carves its place in a saturated wellness market—and whether its ingredient transparency, natural claims, and user experiences support the promises found on its official website.

    Kickstart Your Wellness Journey Naturally with Nagano Lean Body Tonic

    Looking for a cleaner, smarter way to boost metabolism and cut cravings? Nagano Lean Body Tonic may be the modern, natural solution to help you reset and energize from within.

    Read our full analysis to see what real users are saying and whether it truly supports weight loss

    Introducing Nagano Lean Body Tonic

    The surge in interest around Nagano Lean Body Tonic in 2025 is far from accidental. In a market dominated by synthetic diet pills and fleeting health fads, more consumers are gravitating toward clean-label supplements rooted in traditional practices and backed by evolving science. As a powdered drink mix, Nagano Tonic distinguishes itself with a combination of ancient herbal wisdom and functional, metabolism-supporting ingredients.

    But the big question remains: does it actually live up to the hype?

    This section breaks down what the product is, what’s inside it, and how it positions itself as a natural solution to today’s most common weight loss hurdles. You’ll also see how it compares to the flood of detox teas, thermogenic fat burners, and trendy metabolism blends currently crowding the shelves.

    What Exactly Is Nagano Lean Body Tonic?

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic is a powdered dietary supplement designed to be stirred into water or your favorite beverage. It contains a carefully selected mix of fruits, herbs, roots, and adaptogenic botanicals—many inspired by Japanese wellness rituals. Rather than being just another fat-burning formula, Nagano presents itself as a multi-functional wellness tonic aimed at supporting metabolism, reducing cravings, and promoting cleaner, sustained energy.

    Unlike conventional fat burners that rely heavily on caffeine or synthetic appetite suppressants, this tonic opts for a gentler approach. It embraces functional nutrition—working in harmony with your body to restore metabolic balance without overloading your system.

    This reflects a broader 2025 shift toward Eastern-inspired fat-loss strategies, which prioritize internal balance and long-term vitality over short-term gimmicks. Nagano Tonic positions itself at this crossroads: ancient herbal tradition meeting modern nutritional needs.

    Curious To Know More? Visit The Official Nagano Tonic Website Here

    Core Ingredients And Their Functional Benefits

    While the complete ingredient list can be found on the official website (leanbodytonic.com), below is a closer look at the standout components that give Nagano Lean Body Tonic its unique edge over conventional weight loss supplements.

    Camu Camu

    This Amazonian superfruit is revered for its exceptionally high Vitamin C content. Frequently associated with immune support and antioxidant activity, Camu Camu is thought to help reduce oxidative stress, a factor that can contribute to fatigue and stubborn weight gain.

    EGCG (from Green Tea Extract)

    One of the most researched thermogenic compounds in the natural wellness space, EGCG may support fat oxidation and healthy metabolic function, especially when paired with an active lifestyle and balanced nutrition. While not a magic bullet, it remains a valuable asset in the broader metabolic support toolkit.

    Mangosteen

    Southeast Asian herbal traditions often turn to mangosteen for its xanthones—powerful antioxidants believed to support the body’s inflammatory response. Its detox-friendly profile and potential to assist with systemic balance are why it’s featured in many modern wellness blends, including Nagano.

    Ashwagandha

    This revered adaptogen is known for helping the body manage stress and regulate cortisol levels, an important factor given that elevated cortisol is often linked to abdominal fat accumulation. Its calming, balancing effects may also support better emotional eating habits and energy stability.

    Momordica Charantia (Bitter Melon)

    A staple in Eastern medicine, bitter melon has long been used for its potential effects on blood sugar and appetite control. While its intense flavor may not appeal to everyone, its metabolic support properties make it a strategic addition to the Nagano formula.

    Inulin

    This prebiotic fiber plays a dual role—supporting gut health and increasing satiety. By fostering a healthier digestive environment and helping users feel fuller longer, inulin may help cut down on snacking and improve weight control outcomes.

    Other Key Ingredients: Eleuthero Root, Cinnamon Cassia, Ginger, Acerola, and Alfalfa Leaf

    These additional botanicals contribute more than just flavor. They offer a range of potential benefits, including antioxidant protection, digestive comfort, and gentle metabolic regulation. While not headline ingredients, their presence reflects a comprehensive, wellness-first formulation strategy.

    Disclaimer: Effects of natural ingredients can vary significantly between individuals. Nagano Lean Body Tonic is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement, particularly if managing existing health conditions or taking medication.

    Tap To Get Details Of All The Ingredients Used In Nagano Lean Body Tonic From The Official Website

    A Clean-Label Choice For The Conscious Consumer

    In today’s wellness landscape, where artificial additives are increasingly questioned, Nagano Lean Body Tonic sets itself apart with its commitment to clean, plant-based ingredients. By avoiding preservatives, stimulants, and synthetic fillers, the tonic appeals to health-conscious individuals who prefer natural thermogenic support over chemically engineered alternatives.

    Additionally, the product is non-GMO, vegan-friendly, and manufactured in a GMP-certified facility, as stated by the brand. These quality assurances resonate with modern consumers seeking transparency, ethical sourcing, and evidence of good manufacturing standards.

    How Does Nagano Tonic Align With Consumer Expectations?

    What sets Nagano Lean Body Tonic apart isn’t just its ingredient list—it’s the way the formula aims to support multiple facets of weight wellness:

    • Naturally encourages metabolic activity (without synthetic stimulants)
    • Supports stress management with adaptogenic herbs
    • It may help curb cravings thanks to digestion-friendly prebiotics
    • Caters to a clean-living, holistic lifestyle

    These benefits resonate strongly with the mindset of today’s health-conscious consumer, especially in 2025, where sustainable transformation has overtaken fad diets and quick-fix solutions. The tonic’s approach aligns with the growing demand for natural, effective alternatives that address body, mind, and lifestyle in unison.

    Investigating Customer Complaints And Reviews

    As with any supplement that earns buzz, Nagano Lean Body Tonic has its fair share of both advocates and critics. As usage grows, so does the flood of online reviews, social media chatter, Reddit discussions, and blog breakdowns. For curious shoppers, it’s essential to sort through the noise and get a clear picture of what users are actually experiencing.

    In this section, we break down some of the most common criticisms, highlight verified customer success stories, and explore why reactions can differ so much between individuals. Given how often terms like “Nagano Tonic scam,” “real results after 30 days,” or “does it really work?” appear in search results, an unbiased investigation is more than helpful—it’s necessary.

    Top Reported Complaints: What You Should Know

    Although many buyers report positive changes, several recurring complaints stand out. These issues aren’t deal-breakers, but they offer valuable context for prospective users.

    1. Results Can Take Time

    Perhaps the most frequent criticism involves the pace of visible results. Users hoping for dramatic fat loss in just a few days may find themselves disappointed early on.

    “I didn’t feel much difference in the first two weeks, but by week four I noticed more energy and less bloating. Still, it’s not some instant miracle,” wrote one Reddit user in a health thread.

    This gradual improvement is typical of plant-based, clean-label formulas that avoid harsh stimulants or extreme fat-blocking compounds. Like many natural wellness products, consistency and patience are key to unlocking benefits.

    2. Taste and Mixability Concerns

    While many people enjoy the tonic’s slightly fruity, herbal flavor, others describe it as “an acquired taste.” Some report that the texture can be gritty or clumpy, especially when mixed with cold water.

    Tip: Users often find better mixability with warm water or when blending the tonic into smoothies, citrus juice, or herbal tea for a smoother experience.

    3. Not Sold on Major Retail Platforms

    Another point of frustration is the tonic’s limited distribution. It’s sold exclusively through the official website, which prevents access via Amazon, Walmart, or third-party wellness sites. While this helps protect the formula’s integrity, it can be inconvenient for those used to broader availability.

    Important Note: Always purchase from the official site to avoid counterfeit or expired products. Unauthorized resellers may offer imitations or tampered formulations.

    Verified Positive Reviews: What Real Users Say Works

    Now let’s flip the script and explore the growing number of users who report noticeable improvements while using Nagano Lean Body Tonic as part of their daily wellness routine. These testimonials often include boosted energy, reduced bloating, fewer cravings, and gradual but steady fat loss over time.

    1. A Clean Energy Boost—Without the Crash

    A standout benefit reported by many users is an increase in natural energy, especially in the morning hours after taking the tonic.

    “I’ve basically replaced my coffee. It gives me a clean, steady lift with no jitters or mid-morning crashes,” shared one user in a 2025 feedback summary.

    This effect may be attributed to ingredients like green tea extract (rich in EGCG), ginger, and the adaptogen Ashwagandha—all known for promoting balanced, stimulant-free vitality.

    2. Better Appetite Control and Reduced Cravings

    Numerous users say they experienced fewer urges to snack, especially on sugary or processed foods, after consistently taking the tonic for several weeks.

    While it’s difficult to pinpoint exact causes without clinical data, the presence of prebiotic fiber (inulin), cinnamon cassia, and bitter melon may support satiety and blood sugar stability, reducing cravings naturally.

    Disclaimer: These results reflect individual experiences and are not guaranteed. Speak with a healthcare provider for tailored health advice.

    3. Sustainable, Long-Term Results with Consistent Use

    Those who incorporated Nagano Tonic daily, especially alongside light movement, mindful eating, or walking, were more likely to report positive changes.

    “After 8 weeks, I lost 9 pounds. It didn’t happen overnight, but my clothes fit better and my energy is up. This feels like something I can stick with,” noted one verified buyer.

    This reflects the product’s alignment with modern wellness trends that favor long-term body recomposition over dramatic quick fixes.

    See what current users are reporting about their experience with Nagano Tonic, available on the official website

    Why Mixed Reviews Exist, Even When Results Are Positive

    It’s important to understand that supplement performance can vary widely. Factors like diet, stress, sleep, hormone balance, and activity level all play a role in how effective any supplement may be for a given person. Misleading social media ads can also create unrealistic expectations, leading some users to feel disappointed if they don’t experience rapid changes.

    That’s why transparent, balanced reviews like this are essential for setting realistic expectations.

    A Grounded Solution in a Market Full of Hype

    All things considered, Nagano Lean Body Tonic seems to deliver meaningful support for many users, especially those who value consistency, clean ingredients, and holistic health. While no product is perfect, most complaints revolve around personal preferences or timing, not the safety or integrity of the product itself.

    With roots in traditional Japanese wellness and modern metabolic science, the tonic presents itself as a clean, non-GMO, naturally supportive tool in your health toolkit.

    The Science Behind Nagano Lean Body Tonic

    Today’s health-conscious consumer seeks more than just weight loss—they want holistic, natural solutions that support full-body wellness. Nagano Lean Body Tonic steps up to this demand by offering a blend of plant-based compounds rooted in both science and traditional Japanese health practices.

    Let’s dive into the key functions of the formula and how its ingredients may work synergistically to support metabolism, cravings, digestion, and stress resilience.

    1. Metabolic Activation Through Thermogenesis

    A major focus of Nagano Tonic is enhancing metabolic activity via natural thermogenesis—the process of using stored fat as energy. Key ingredients include:

    Green Tea Extract (EGCG):
    EGCG, a potent catechin in green tea, has been shown to support fat oxidation and energy expenditure, especially during physical activity. It’s a well-studied, non-stimulant thermogenic agent found in many effective wellness supplements.

    Note: These effects are based on early-stage studies and user testimonials. Results will vary.

    Ginger + Cinnamon Cassia:
    Known for their warming, digestive, and circulation-boosting properties, these herbs help create an environment that supports metabolic efficiency and energy transformation.

    2. Nutrient-Dense Antioxidants for Systemic Health

    Camu Camu + Mangosteen:
    These antioxidant-rich superfruits are known for reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which are now recognized as roadblocks to optimal metabolism. Camu Camu also delivers a significant dose of vitamin C, supporting immune and mitochondrial function.

    3. Appetite Control and Satiety Support

    Inulin (Prebiotic Fiber):
    Naturally found in chicory root, inulin promotes fullness, supports digestion, and may slow glucose absorption. It also feeds healthy gut bacteria, key players in appetite and weight regulation.

    Bitter Melon (Momordica Charantia):
    Used traditionally for blood sugar support, bitter melon may help reduce sugar-related cravings by encouraging a healthy insulin response.

    Disclaimer: Bitter melon is still being evaluated in scientific studies. Consult your provider before use if you have blood sugar concerns.

    4. Stress Reduction for Weight Stability

    Stress often triggers overeating and belly fat accumulation. The adaptogens in Nagano Tonic help address this root cause:

    Ashwagandha:
    One of the most well-known adaptogens, it may help lower cortisol levels and reduce emotional eating or fatigue associated with chronic stress.

    Eleuthero (Siberian Ginseng):
    Included to support sustained energy and resilience under pressure, this adaptogen helps keep mental and physical fatigue at bay without overstimulating the body.

    5. Gut Health: The Missing Link in Weight Wellness

    Gut health influences metabolism, inflammation, and even mood. By including gut-supportive ingredients like inulin, digestive herbs, and superfruit antioxidants, Nagano Tonic aims to support a healthier internal environment that fosters fat metabolism and emotional well-being.

    Note: This tonic is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease. Results vary and are not guaranteed.

    The Synergy That Sets It Apart

    What makes Nagano Tonic stand out isn’t one “miracle” ingredient—it’s the harmony of its components. From metabolism and appetite to stress and gut balance, this formula addresses multiple dimensions of wellness. That’s what makes it a good fit for consumers looking for something smarter than another crash diet or caffeine pill.

    In a world filled with synthetic fat burners and exaggerated claims, Nagano Lean Body Tonic offers a gentler, functional path to feeling better, inside and out.

    Curious About How Nagano Tonic Works? Dive Into The Details

    How To Add Nagano Tonic To Your Routine?

    Ease of use is crucial for long-term success, and Nagano Lean Body Tonic fits easily into modern wellness routines.

    Daily Usage Guide:

    • Dosage: One scoop daily
    • How to Mix: Stir into 6–8 oz of water, juice, or smoothies
    • When to Take: Morning, preferably before food
    • Duration: Use consistently for 30–60 days to evaluate effects

    Many users take it alongside light morning movement, meditation, or as part of a clean breakfast routine. It can also be used to support intermittent fasting plans, as it’s low in calories and often described as a metabolic primer.

    Always consult your healthcare provider before beginning any new supplement, especially if pregnant, nursing, or managing a medical condition.

    Pairing Nagano Tonic With Healthy Habits

    One of the key reasons wellness-minded users appreciate Nagano Lean Body Tonic is that it doesn’t require an intense lifestyle overhaul. Still, when paired with purposeful habits, the tonic’s benefits may be noticeably amplified.

    1. Prioritize Morning Hydration

    Since the tonic is mixed with liquid, starting your day with it naturally encourages better hydration. Hydrating early supports digestion, detoxification, and nutrient delivery—all of which are foundational to healthy metabolism.

    Tip: Follow your tonic with an extra glass (16–20 oz) of water to activate your system and support gut function from the start of the day.

    2. Stick to a Whole-Foods Diet

    Nagano Tonic complements—rather than replaces—a nutritious diet. The best outcomes are often reported by those who focus on:

    • Lean proteins (chicken, lentils, eggs)
    • Fiber-rich greens (kale, spinach, broccoli)
    • Slow-burning carbs (quinoa, oats, brown rice)
    • Healthy fats (nuts, olive oil, avocado)

    This type of eating pattern supports metabolic function while reducing inflammation and bloating.

    3. Keep Your Body Moving

    While Nagano doesn’t promise results without movement, it works well alongside light physical activity. Even short daily walks, stretching, or 20-minute workouts can complement the tonic’s natural energy-boosting and fat-burning support.

    These simple efforts can elevate energy, improve hormone function, and reinforce consistent progress.

    4. Layer in Stress Relief

    With stress-regulating ingredients like ashwagandha and eleuthero root already in the mix, adding stress-management habits can further support emotional balance and weight goals. Try:

    • Short breathing sessions or meditation
    • Scented candles or diffusers (lavender, eucalyptus)
    • Tech-free wind-down routines in the evening

    Managing cortisol naturally supports fat metabolism, especially around the midsection.

    Consistency Makes The Difference

    Unlike stimulant-heavy fat burners, Nagano Lean Body Tonic takes a gentler, cumulative approach. It’s designed for long-term metabolic balance rather than short bursts of unsustainable energy.

    Most successful users report visible improvements after 60–90 days of steady use alongside other healthy practices. The focus here is on sustainable progress, not overnight changes.

    Note: Your results will depend on your personal routine, diet, and lifestyle. Nagano is meant to support, not replace, foundational wellness practices.

    Creating A Wellness Ritual That Works

    Nagano Tonic can do more than just assist weight goals—it can anchor positive routines. Whether it becomes part of your breakfast ritual, your pre-walk boost, or a cue for mindful eating, this kind of habit stacking builds momentum.

    By integrating it into your existing structure, you can design a supportive routine that aligns with your wellness goals in a realistic, manageable way.

    Purchasing And Guarantee Details

    Understanding the product is only half the equation—it’s also important to know how the purchase process works. Here’s what to expect when buying Nagano Lean Body Tonic.

    Where To Purchase?

    The tonic is exclusively available through its official website. This ensures you’re getting the genuine product with the correct formulation, not a knockoff. Avoid third-party retailers like Amazon, Walmart, or eBay. These listings are often unauthorized and can carry expired or counterfeit products.

    Buying directly also unlocks exclusive discounts, bulk deals, and updated shipping options.

    Pricing Plans Of Nagano Tonic

    As of now, Nagano Tonic offers three standard packages:

    • Single Bottle: $79 for a 30-day supply
    • Best Value (6 Bottles): $234 total ($39/bottle) 180-day supply
    • Popular (3 Bottles): $177 total ($59/bottle) 90-day supply

    Each order includes usage instructions, and the more you buy, the more you save.

    Tap To Order Nagano Lean Body Tonic From The Official Website

    180-Day Risk-Free Guarantee

    Nagano Tonic is backed by a no-questions-asked, 180-day money-back guarantee. You can try the supplement for up to six months and request a refund, even if the bottles are opened or used.

    Refund Policy Highlights:

    • Valid for all order sizes (1, 3, or 6 bottles)
    • Return shipping is the customer’s responsibility
    • Contact customer service within 180 days for refund instructions

    This generous guarantee shows the brand’s confidence and allows users to evaluate the product at their own pace.

    How To Request A Return?

    To start a refund, contact customer service by email or phone and send the product back to the fulfillment center.

    Contact Details:

    • Email: support@leanbodytonic.com
    • Phone: (863) 591-4284
    • Return Address: 285 Northeast Ave, Tallmadge, OH 44278, USA

    Return Tips:

    • Use trackable shipping
    • Include your order ID and original packaging
    • Keep a copy of your shipping receipt

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic Reviews: Final Thoughts

    In a crowded market of stimulant pills and fad diets, Nagano Lean Body Tonic offers a grounded, holistic alternative. It combines Eastern botanicals and modern science to gently support metabolism, digestion, and energy, without harsh side effects. After reviewing customer testimonials, examining common complaints, and analyzing its ingredients, one thing is clear: Nagano is not a magic bullet, but it is a helpful ally for those pursuing lasting change.

    What makes Nagano stand out is its multifaceted approach. It supports metabolism through ingredients like green tea, ginger, and other thermogenic; helps control cravings with inulin fiber and bitter melon; and enhances stress resilience through adaptogens such as ashwagandha and eleuthero root.

    Additionally, it promotes gut health and digestion, factors often overlooked in weight loss and provides non-stimulant energy support for sustained daily wellness. This thoughtful blend is ideal for individuals seeking not only fat loss but also better mood, improved energy, and enhanced daily performance.

    Used in combination with smart lifestyle habits such as staying hydrated, eating whole foods, getting sufficient sleep, and staying active, Nagano Lean Body Tonic can offer a meaningful edge in your wellness journey.

    Email: support@leanbodytonic.com

    Disclaimer: The information shared about Nagano Lean Body Tonic has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Results may vary from person to person. Before starting Nagano Lean Body Tonic—especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or managing a medical condition—please consult with your healthcare provider.

    This content is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Some links on this page may be affiliate links, meaning we may earn a commission if you choose to purchase through them. Always make informed decisions in partnership with a qualified medical professional when considering any supplement as part of your wellness routine.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5d24aa16-706a-4dbc-8890-71918ce0232f

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/063f8cdd-1952-46cb-9a72-030ae0393ad7

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/989f78bb-7775-4f64-b791-ede0d85430d6

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: ‘Good’ rating for adult care services

    Source: City of Sunderland

    Healthcare regulator the Care Quality Commission (CQC) rates City Council support services for adults as ‘Good’.

    The City Council’s Adult Social Care Services achieved an overall score of 75 in the inspection which was carried out in November.

    Inspectors found high quality services across the board, with all nine key areas examined rated ‘Good’.

    In a report published on Friday 9 May, the CQC said the council worked with people, partners and the local community to make available a range of services, facilities, resources and other measures to promote independence, and to prevent, delay or reduce the need for care and support.

    Summing up people’s experiences, inspectors added: “People told us they received clear information, regular reviews, and emotional support from the local authority staff. They said the staff supported them and listened to their personal preferences and wishes such as quieter living environments and family connections.”

    They also noted ‘a strong focus on reablement to support people to remain independent at home’ and how ‘the service fosters a culture of continuous improvement, with leaders who are passionate about their community taking innovative approaches to address any service gaps.’

    Welcoming the report, Councillor Kelly Chequer, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Safer Communities at Sunderland City Council, said: “I’m delighted that the high-quality adult services we provide to our residents have been recognised as being ‘Good’ by the CQC.

    “This achievement demonstrates how our services are putting residents at the heart of everything we do. It was also brilliant to hear that residents using our services felt that they were being listened to and supported to live more fulfilling lives.

    “The fact that our services have been rated ‘Good’ across all nine key areas inspected is also testament to the dedication of our staff delivering this high quality support across the city.”

    Key findings in the report include:

    • People being given help, advice, and information about how to access services, facilities, and other agencies for help with non-eligible care and support needs
    • The local authority being passionate about working with partners to promote a shared commitment to the health and wellbeing of people in Sunderland. There was a particular focus on collaboration to maximise community assets and strengths
    • People reporting positive experiences with assessment and support, including increased independence, choice, and control
    • Effective systems, processes, and practices in place to make sure people were protected from abuse and neglect
    • Clear and effective governance, management, and accountability arrangements at all levels within the local authority
    • People saying their journey through adult social care was focused on their wishes and they felt listened to. Pathways and processes ensured people’s support was planned and co-ordinated across different agencies and services.

    James Bullion, CQC’s chief inspector of adult social care and integrated care, said: “At this assessment of Sunderland City Council’s adult social care services, we found leaders had a passion for providing good care. They had a clear understanding of where they needed to address issues and were making continuous improvements to benefit people living in Sunderland.”

    The full report can be read here: Local authority assessment reports – Care Quality Commission

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s new-energy passenger car sales surge in April

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

    Visitors learn about a car at the 20th China (Changsha) International Automobile Exposition in Changsha, central China’s Hunan Province, Dec. 4, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    China’s new-energy passenger vehicle market continued to see robust growth in April, with retail sales reaching about 922,000 units, industry association data showed Thursday.

    The figure marked a 37 percent year-on-year increase, but a 7 percent decrease from the previous month, according to the China Passenger Car Association (CPCA).

    The penetration rate of new-energy vehicles, a gauge of popularity, in the domestic market stood at 52.3 percent in April.

    During the first four months of the year, total retail sales of new-energy passenger cars amounted to 3.34 million units, representing a 37 percent increase from the previous year, the CPCA data showed.

    Retail sales of passenger cars stood at 1.79 million in April, up 17 percent year on year, but 8 percent lower than the previous month.

    During the first four months of the year, total retail sales of passenger cars hit 6.92 million, up 9 percent year on year.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: EU targets 95-bln-euro worth of US imports

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

    Flags of the European Union fly outside the Berlaymont Building, the European Commission headquarters, in Brussels, Belgium, Jan. 29, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The European Commission has launched a public consultation targeting U.S. imports worth 95 billion euros (107.2 billion U.S. dollars), warning that retaliatory measures could take effect if ongoing negotiations with the United States fail to yield an agreement, according to a statement released on Thursday.

    The consultation covers a broad range of U.S. industrial and agricultural goods, including wine, frozen meat, aircraft, cars and car parts, chemicals, electrical equipment, healthcare products, and machinery.

    In parallel, the bloc is also weighing new restrictions on 4.4 billion euros of European Union (EU) exports to the United States, such as steel scrap and chemical products.

    Currently, the EU faces 25 percent U.S. tariffs on steel, aluminum, and automobiles, alongside 10 percent baseline duties on most other exports. The bloc has been preparing for a possible end to a 90-day tariff truce, which is set to expire on July 8. If no deal is reached, the U.S. universal tariffs could rise to 20 percent.

    The Commission stated that the consultation on countermeasures aims to address both the universal U.S. tariffs and those specifically targeting cars and auto parts.

    At the same time, the Commission announced that the EU will launch a World Trade Organization (WTO) dispute against the so-called “reciprocal” tariffs and duties on vehicles and vehicle components. The EU will submit a formal request for consultations, arguing that the U.S. measures violate core WTO rules.

    “The EU’s objective is thus to reaffirm that internationally agreed rules matter, and these cannot be unilaterally disregarded by any WTO member, including the U.S.,” the statement underlined.

    While underscoring the EU’s preference for a negotiated solution, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized that the bloc “continues preparing for all possibilities.”

    The Commission noted that nearly 70 percent of EU exports to the United States – amounting to 379 billion euros – are now affected by the new tariffs, including some that are temporarily suspended. These tariffs have increased business costs, slowed economic growth, fueled inflation, and contributed to heightened global economic uncertainty.

    Stakeholders are invited to submit feedback on the proposed measures until June 10. Following the consultation, the Commission will finalize its proposal and consult EU member states. If necessary, a legal act imposing tariffs could be swiftly enacted should talks with Washington collapse.

    Regarding the WTO dispute, once the EU formally requests consultations, both parties will have up to two months to reach a mutually acceptable resolution. If no agreement is reached, the EU may request the establishment of a dispute panel to adjudicate the matter. (1 euro = 1.13 U.S. dollars)

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mockingbird programme providing support to more Plymouth fostering families

    Source: City of Plymouth

    A programme which provides family-style support for fostering families has been extended in Plymouth, with more households now able to benefit.  

    Foster for Plymouth staff and families celebrating the launch of the second Mockingbird constellation

    Foster for Plymouth, Plymouth City Council’s own fostering service, first introduced the Mockingbird programme last autumn in partnership with The Fostering Network. 

    Mockingbird uses an extended family model in the form of ‘constellations’, consisting of a central hub home which supports several satellite homes of other foster carers. The hub home carers are specially recruited for their experience and will help the satellite carers with peer support, social activities and respite care in the form of sleepovers.   

    The first constellation launched last year has been a huge success and now a second constellation has launched, which will support eight fostering households.  

    The hub home carers for the second constellation, Lydia and Paul, have been foster carers since 2013.  

    They said: “As a family of five we have mostly done time-limited and respite care, caring for 39 children to date. We have loved sharing our house and family with these children and have learnt so much on the way.  

    “We look forward to being part of the Mockingbird model, supporting others to enjoy and flourish in their fostering journey and introducing an extended family to all the children.”  

     Being part of a Mockingbird constellation is an additional option for foster carers, rather than being compulsory, and the satellite homes are carefully chosen to ensure good compatibility.  

    Mockingbird has been shown to help alleviate the sense of isolation that carers can feel and means they can access immediate practical and emotional support in the same way that a non-fostering family might be supported by friends and family.   

    The first constellation, lead by hub home carers Jo and Duncan, has been hugely successful since it launched last autumn.  

    Jo said: “We absolutely love our Mockingbird journey. It’s been awesome watching both the children and carers bonding and we have made so many wonderful memories so far, it’s been absolutely amazing. Through feedback from our carers I know they feel the same way. 

    “We wish Lydia and Paul every success on their new journey – they’ll smash it! And we will support in any way we can.”  

    L-R: Hub home carer Jo, Mockingbird Liaison Worker at Foster for Plymouth Sharon, and new Hub home carers Paul and Lydia

    Councillor Jemima Laing, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said: “The success of the first Mockingbird constellation has been astounding, it’s clear that it has had real benefits for both our foster carers and our children and young people. 

    “I’m delighted that we’re launching our second constellation so that even more of our fostering families can benefit from being part of a tight-knit community.”  

    Only Local Authority foster carers can benefit from the Mockingbird programme.  

    To be a foster carer, you must be over the age of 21, have a spare room and be genuinely interested in the welfare of children and young people.  

    There are less barriers to foster care then you may think, and it doesn’t matter whether you are:  

    • single or in a relationship  
    • a parent or have never had children  
    • a pet owner  
    • renting your home or a homeowner  
    • employed, unemployed or retired  
    • living with a disability.  

    If you’re interested in finding out more, visit fosterforplymouth.co.uk, email [email protected] or call 01752 308762.  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Celebrations at St Peter’s as academy rated Good by Ofsted

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    Inspectors visited St Peter’s Collegiate Academy recently and, in their report published this week, found that pupils ‘achieve well’ thanks to consistent approaches to teaching and the curriculum which the school has put in place.

    Leaders have undertaken careful adjustments to continue improving pupils’ education and exam results, and extensively developed the school’s approach to teaching, ensuring higher levels of consistency across subjects – with pupils speaking positively to inspectors about the improvements which have been made.

    Pupils ‘know that the school’s expectations for their achievement and how they conduct themselves are high and consistent’, and how the school lives up to its values of ‘respect, service and aspiration’. One pupil stated: “St Peter’s is a community which supports all pupils and provides a safe environment for us to learn.’

    St Peter’s is an ‘inclusive school where pupils of all backgrounds are valued and welcome’, and identifies the needs of students with special educational needs or disabilities ‘with precision’.

    Staff at the school, part of Three Spires Trust, check pupils’ reading ages carefully on entry, enabling ‘effective support’ to those who need to become more fluent readers, and there is further provision in place to encourage a love of reading.

    The school has worked extensively to develop its sixth form, establishing a joint sixth form with another school in the trust which has contributed to students ‘learning the curriculum in greater depth and being better prepared’ for exams. Sixth formers are ‘well guided in their choice of courses’ and given ‘useful guidance to inform and support them to access ambitious destinations’.

    Attendance levels are high, and inspectors say the school is ‘rightly proud of its extensive offer for pupils’ personal development’, including clubs, visits and residentials.

    Governors and trustees are ‘ambitious for the school and its pupils’, ‘very well informed’, and offer supportive challenge. Meanwhile, the trust has ‘worked effectively with leaders to review and develop the school’s work’, with staff speaking ‘highly positively’ of the changes which have been made.

    Inspectors concluded that the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management and sixth form provision at St Peter’s Collegiate Academy are all Good. Previously, the school had been judged to require improvement.

    Principal Timothy Mullen-Furness said: “We are absolutely delighted that Ofsted has recognised the tremendous progress we’ve made as an academy.

    “This report reflects the unwavering dedication of our staff, the positive attitudes of our students, and the strength of our wider community. St Peter’s continues to grow as a place where every student is welcomed, valued, and supported to fulfil their God given potential. As we look ahead to our brand new academy building, opening in January 2026, we remain committed to providing an exceptional education in a truly inclusive environment.”

    Matt Jevons, Chair of Governors, added: “As both Chair of Governors and a parent at the school, I am fortunate enough to witness the unstinting dedication and professionalism of our staff every day. It is therefore extremely pleasing to see their efforts formally acknowledged in the inspection report and in the review meetings.

    “As parents, we entrust the school significantly to care for and educate our children, and this judgment reaffirms our faith in the school’s long term commitment to excellence.”

    Councillor Jacqui Coogan, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: “This is an excellent report which recognises the significant progress made at St Peter’s Collegiate Academy, and it is a testament to the collective effort, resilience and ambition across the academy. I would like to congratulate Timothy and everyone at St Peter’s on their continuing success.”

    Data shows that 97% of schools in Wolverhampton are currently rated either Good or Outstanding by Ofsted, the highest ever.
     

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: First special mail train departs from Xinjiang on China-Europe international rail freight route

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    URUMQI, May 9 (Xinhua) — A special train loaded with mail left the Horgos railway border crossing in northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region on Thursday bound for Kazakhstan’s Burundai Railway Station, marking the first such freight train in the region to operate on the China-Europe international freight rail route.

    The train is carrying 1,038 parcels weighing a total of 17 tons, containing goods sold through cross-border e-commerce, such as clothing, electronics and everyday items. It will take 2-3 days to reach its destination. After arriving in Kazakhstan, the cargo will be distributed to more than 20 European countries.

    Before the new train, existing trains could only deliver a small amount of mail from Xinjiang to Central Asian countries. Now, it will be possible to deliver an average of 30 tons of mail per month.

    According to a representative of one of the local freight forwarding companies, the formation of this channel for the delivery of postal items will provide business opportunities for both domestic foreign trade enterprises and cross-border e-commerce platforms. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK and international partners confirm support for Special Tribunal on Crime of Aggression as Foreign Secretary visits Lviv

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    UK and international partners confirm support for Special Tribunal on Crime of Aggression as Foreign Secretary visits Lviv

    Foreign Secretary David Lammy will visit Lviv today in joint show of support for Ukraine, as the UK announces sanctions on 100 ships in the Russian shadow fleet.

    • Foreign Secretary David Lammy will visit Lviv today [Friday 9 May] in joint show of support for Ukraine’s future in Europe  

    • Visiting Lviv, European partners will reaffirm their commitment to securing a just and lasting peace  

    • For the first time, Ministers will also confirm their support for the establishment of a Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine

    Visiting Lviv to stand in solidarity with Ukraine in their defence against Russia’s illegal invasion, Foreign Secretary David Lammy will join European ministers in the city to hold further talks on securing a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.   

    He will also, alongside representatives of the Core Group of at least 37 countries, announce united and ardent support for the establishment of a Special Tribunal, to hold those responsible for the crime of aggression against Ukraine to account.  

    Today’s events come as the Prime Minister announced a major package of sanctions to target the decrepit and dangerous shadow fleet carrying Russian oil. Our world-leading sanctions have plunged Putin’s ships into crisis. According to some estimates, sanctions have crippled 200 ships – almost half of Putin’s entire fleet.  

    The UK has been clear that the security of the UK, which underpins this government’s Plan for Change, starts in Ukraine. Securing a just and lasting peace in Ukraine and combating Russia’s malign influence around the world mean a safer Britain at home. We are boosting our defence spending , with an increase of £13.4 billion year on year, to respond to these challenges.

    Foreign Secretary, David Lammy said:

    Today – and every day – we stand with Ukraine. We stand for a just and lasting peace, for a secure Europe, and for accountability and justice. I have been supportive of a Special Tribunal to prosecute Russia’s leaders for their war of aggression since March 2022, just weeks after Putin’s full-scale invasion. This was a key manifesto commitment and as soon as we came into government, we made it a top priority.

    We stand against Putin, against his stalling and backtracking on peace, and against his dodgy shadow fleet of oil tankers. We are determined to sink his failing ambition to fund his illegal war through them – that is why we have today unleashed the largest package of sanctions against them, with 110 targets.

    We call on Russia to drop the gimmicks and agree to an unconditional ceasefire as Ukraine has done. Those standing with Putin today in Moscow should reflect on the lessons of history: peace will always prevail and aggressors will never be allowed to succeed.

    Through our 100 Year Partnership, this government’s Plan for Change and our ongoing military and diplomatic support, the UK’s commitment to Ukraine is stronger than ever.

    The Foreign Secretary will join 17 other foreign ministers and Ukrainian Minister for Foreign Affairs Andrii Sybiha to discuss the next steps for an enduring peace in Europe. European ministers will make clear that they are united in support of Ukraine and its clear commitment to peace, and condemn Putin’s stalling, backtracking and ongoing bombardment of Ukrainian civilians.  

    The Special Tribunal meeting is a milestone moment, as we now have the legal foundations for a Tribunal, following the culmination of more than two years of careful and complex negotiations among at least 37 states to deliver a united position on justice and accountability. The government is delivering on its manifesto, and the UK is building on its commitments as part of the UK-Ukraine 100 Year Partnership.  

    The UK will also provide nearly £25 million in new funding to support local Ukrainian organisations protect the most vulnerable who continue to suffer from Russia’s ongoing aggression.   

    This includes £10 million to HAVEN to protect and evacuate civilians in frontline areas where Russian attacks continue and £5 million to Mercy Corps so they can support local organisations to meet people’s basic needs as quickly as possible in an emergency. £9.4 million will go to the Ukrainian Red Cross who continue to build up Ukraine’s country-wide emergency response to urgent humanitarian needs. Some of this funding will improve access to and the quality of recovery and rehabilitation services, including for veterans.  

    The Foreign Secretary’s visit comes as Ukrainian grain and other food produce, supported by £3 million provided by the UK for the World Food Programme to send produce to Syria, arrives in Türkiye to be distributed worldwide. This Ukrainian produce provides a lifeline to the most vulnerable around the world including in Syria with Ukrainian grain crucial for global food security. In stark contrast, Russia repeatedly attacked Ukrainian port infrastructure and ships and has imposed conditions on a Black Sea ceasefire.  

    Today’s meeting in Lviv highlights the strength of European unity. Today, and its historical importance, should service as a reminder that peace, respect of sovereignty, and justice will always prevail.  

    The British people have never once wavered in their support for Ukraine. Supporting them means defending our shared democratic values and Ukraine’s right to determine its own future in a free and peaceful Europe.

    Background

    • Negotiations on the Special Tribunal will now move to the Council of Europe, where the next stage will involve finalising the legal framework and discussions around how to operationalize the Tribunal. Once established, the Tribunal will complement the International Criminal Court’s active investigation and Ukrainian efforts to hold perpetrators of war crimes to account in their own courts.   

    • More information on the UK’s support for Ukraine can be found here. 

    • More information on the UK’s support for grain supplies to Syria can be found here.

    • Photos can be found on the FCDO Flickr account here.  

    • The Prime Minister announced today’s sanctions at the Joint Expeditionary Force Summit today read more here.  

    • The full list of today’s sanctions targets can be found here.

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 May 2025

    Invasion of Ukraine

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Transport Secretary forges landmark deal to progress new Swiss rail link

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Transport Secretary forges landmark deal to progress new Swiss rail link

    Direct rail link between UK and Switzerland could boost tourism and grow our economy, while offering a greener option for passengers.

    • deal with the Swiss Federal government paves the way for a new direct rail connection to Switzerland
    • agreement aims to boost cross-border travel, strengthen trade links, and support greener transport across the continent
    • move part of the government’s wider plan to boost international rail connectivity and deliver more options for passengers

    Millions of passengers could benefit from quicker, greener and more convenient travel across Europe as the Transport Secretary signs a landmark agreement to progress a new direct rail link to Switzerland.

    A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed today (9 May 2025) between the Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, and Federal Councillor, Albert Rösti, will lay the groundwork for future commercial services that could boost tourism to the UK, support jobs and businesses and strengthen cross-border trade.

    This landmark agreement, signed today at London St Pancras Station, signifies the government’s ambition to boost sustainable transport links across Europe and unlock the significant economic, social and environmental benefits a direct rail connection brings.

    The move will help formalise cooperation between the 2 governments, building on industry efforts, to address the barriers to establishing direct rail services, in particular the need to establish border controls and meet Channel Tunnel safety rules.

    It will also support the industry’s existing plans to realise long-term ambitions for enhanced rail connectivity between the UK and central Europe.

    Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, said:

    This is an exciting and important milestone in our efforts to strengthen international rail connections and promote greener travel to Europe.

    A direct rail link between the UK and Switzerland has the potential to boost tourism, grow our economy and bring people closer together – all while offering a greener option for passengers.

    This is what our Plan for Change is about – breaking down international barriers and making bold, long-term decisions to better connect Britain and boost our economy.

    Federal Councillor, Albert Rösti, said:

    A direct rail connection between Switzerland and the United Kingdom is an ambitious goal.

    With today’s memorandum of understanding, we are establishing the basis to jointly examine concrete next steps. Such a connection would send a strong signal for international public transport.

    Following today’s signing, a joint working group will be established, bringing together government and industry experts from both countries to examine how best to overcome the commercial and technical barriers to launching a direct service.

    This includes establishing Channel Tunnel safety requirements, new security arrangements and facilitating conversations with operators.

    The new working group will hold its first meeting in the coming months to begin developing a clear action plan addressing operational, regulatory, policy and commercial requirements.

    Robert Sinclair, CEO of London St. Pancras Highspeed, said:

    We strongly welcome the UK and Swiss governments’ active cooperation to create a sustainable international rail border arrangement between the two countries.

    This exciting announcement brings us one step closer to direct high-speed services between London and Switzerland, building on the preliminary work already undertaken to ensure that station access and routes are in place to make this a reality.  

    London St. Pancras Highspeed is enabling the growth of international high-speed rail services from London. As well as our ongoing work to expand capacity at St. Pancras International, we recently launched a new International Growth Incentive Scheme, which supports the launch of new destinations across Europe, including cities in Switzerland. We look forward to continuing our discussions with the Swiss National Railway, SBB, to help realise this fantastic opportunity.

    Gwendoline Cazenave, CEO Eurostar, said:

    We welcome steps to strengthen sustainable travel between the UK and Switzerland. Eurostar customers can now book their entire journey between London and Geneva, Zurich, Basel or Lausanne via Paris. This is a first step in a wider plan with our partners to grow connections in the greenest way.

    Rail media enquiries

    Media enquiries 0300 7777878

    Switchboard 0300 330 3000

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Contract awarded for next phase of major flood defence works

    Source: City of Derby

    One of the city’s biggest infrastructure projects has moved a step closer, with Derby City Council awarding a £38m contract to John Sisk and Son to deliver the next phase of the Our City, Our River programme.

    This package of works, known as Derby Riverside, will provide significant flood resilience protection to many properties along the left (east) bank of the Derwent from Causey Bridge to Derwent Bridge.

    The newly appointed contractors will be responsible for delivering a new flood wall and floodgates that will offer enhanced protection for Exeter House and properties on Meadow Road and Meadow Lane. They will also carry out demolition of the riverside office blocks on Stuart Street to create a new riverside green area. This will provide more space for flood water to pass through the city in a controlled corridor.

    Enabling works will begin shortly, with demolition and construction work due to start in May.

    This will involve the removal a number of trees along the route, not only to enable defences to be built, but because the riverside park area will only work effectively as a flood conveyance corridor by limiting obstructions.

    Councillor Carmel Swan, Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Transport and Sustainability, said:

    I’m delighted that the contract is now signed with John Sisk and Sons to deliver the vital second phase of the Our City, Our River flood defence project. These works are crucial as we continue to future proof the city against extreme weather and unlock the potential for regeneration along the river. We can now look forward to seeing work begin on site in the near future.

    Alan Rodger, Managing Director – Sisk Infrastructure & UK North, said:

    We’re delighted to be working with Derby City Council on this phase of the Our City, Our River programme. We understand how vital this project is for further flood prevention and the regeneration of this area in the centre of the city. Our team of dedicated professionals will leverage the latest innovations and sustainability practices to help deliver this fantastic scheme, alongside social value projects in the local community.

    David Turnbull, Area Flood and Coastal Risk Manager – Derbyshire and Leicestershire for the Environment Agency, said:

    This contract award marks another step forward in delivering the Our City Our River Programme and making Derby more resilient to the threat of climate change. The Environment Agency are proud to be in partnership with Derby City Council for this journey, and we are delighted to see this complex but vital phase of the programme begin very soon.

    The Our City, Our River programme is one of the Environment Agency’s largest local authority-led projects and has already delivered enhanced flood protection to over 2000 properties. Derby Riverside will extend this protection to the east bank of the Derwent and unlock the potential for regeneration in this part of the city.

    John Sisk and Son has a track record of delivering landmark projects across Ireland, the UK and Europe, covering a range of sectors. With a sustainable approach, they look to maximise sustainable construction and minimising the environmental effects of a project, and are also investing significantly in energy efficiency.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Egg packers prosecuted for switching ‘best before’ dates

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Egg packers prosecuted for switching ‘best before’ dates

    Egg packers prosecuted following APHA investigations

    Criminals re-packing of eggs with fake ‘best before’ dates have been stopped and prosecuted, following investigations carried out by the Animal and Plant Health Agency inspectors.

    The prosecutions, which took place between January and March 2025, involved multiple offences under the Egg Marketing Regulations. These included the unlawful re-packing of eggs with altered or extended ‘best before’ dates and breaches of required labelling standards and followed work by Animal and Plant Health Agency’s Egg Marketing Inspectors in conjunction with the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Counter Fraud and Investigation Team.

    • On 31 March 2025, Phillip Hoyland of Summerley Top Farm, Derbyshire pleaded guilty to fraud charges. The charges arose following routine inspections carried out by APHA EMIs and a subsequent investigation by Defra’s Counter Fraud and Investigation Team. Mr Hoyland was sentenced to 24 months’ imprisonment, suspended for 24 months.

    • On 24 March 2025, Barradale Eggs Ltd of Ashford, Kent, was prosecuted at Maidstone Magistrates’ Court. The case followed an inspection by an APHA EMI, who identified that a batch of eggs had been re-packed and the original ‘best before’ date extended—contrary to egg marketing legislation. The company was found guilty of one offence and was ordered to pay a fine of £466 and costs of £85.

    • Field Farm Eggs, based in South Newbald, East Yorkshire, was prosecuted at Hull Magistrates’ Court on 24 February 2025, following inspections conducted by an APHA EMI in December 2023. The inspections revealed that a batch of class A eggs had been re-packed and the ‘best before’ date unlawfully extended.The defendant was found guilty of two offences and fined £1,000, with a victim surcharge of £400 and costs of £85.

    • Holyfield Farm Fresh Eggs Ltd, based in north London, pleaded guilty to three charges at Highbury Corner Magistrates Court on Monday 20 January 2025 following inspections by an APHA EMI which found the original ‘best before’ date had been extended by four days. The court issued a fine of £2,000 (reduced from £3,000 due to an early guilty plea) and awarded £200 for prosecution costs.

    Aled Edwards, Head of England Field Delivery, Animal and Plant Health Agency said:  

    It’s essential that consumers can trust the eggs they purchase are fresh, safe to eat, and clearly and accurately labelled.

    These cases demonstrate our robust enforcement procedures; across the country we have 35 EMIs who work in our field delivery teams and have the important role of ensuring regulations in the egg industry are adhered to. I welcome these sentences from the courts and hope they will act as a deterrent to others.

    Every egg packaging centre, regardless of scale, must comply with all relevant legislation, including comprehensive environmental and animal welfare rules. 

    The cases are the latest example of robust collective action by APHA, Defra and the EMIs to prevent offences which breach the required labelling standards to maintain the highest food labelling standards in this country so that consumers have confidence in the food that they buy.

    Anyone who has serious concerns about the welfare of livestock is always urged to report issues immediately to the APHA so that urgent action can be taken by telephoning 03000 200 301 or emailing customeradvice@apha.gov.uk

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President Lai extends congratulations on election of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV  

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    Details
    2025-05-05
    President Lai meets Japanese Diet Member and former Minister of Economy, Trade, and Industry Nishimura Yasutoshi
    On the afternoon of May 5, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation from Japan led by House of Representatives Member and former Minister of Economy, Trade, and Industry Nishimura Yasutoshi. President Lai thanked the government of Japan for continuously speaking up for Taiwan at international venues and reiterating the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. The president stated that to address China’s gray-zone aggression against neighboring countries, Taiwan and Japan, both located in the first island chain, should strengthen cooperation and respond together. He said he looks forward to bilateral industrial cooperation in fields including semiconductors, hydrogen energy, AI, and drones, jointly strengthening the resilience of non-red supply chains, and promoting mutual prosperity and development.    A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I would like to welcome all the members of the Japanese Diet who are using their valuable Golden Week vacation to visit Taiwan, especially House of Representatives Member Nishimura Yasutoshi, whom former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe deeply trusted and relied on, and who for many years held important cabinet positions. This is his first visit after a hiatus of 17 years, so I am sure he will sense Taiwan’s progress and development. House of Representatives Member Tanaka Kazunori has long promoted local exchanges between Taiwan and Japan, and I hope that our visitors will all gain a deeper understanding of Taiwan through this visit.  Yesterday, several of our distinguished guests made a special trip to Kaohsiung to pay their respects at the statue of former Prime Minister Abe, a visionary politician with a broad, international perspective. The former prime minister pioneered the vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific, and once said that “if Taiwan has a problem, then Japan has a problem,” demonstrating strong support for Taiwan and making a deep and lasting impression on the hearts of Taiwanese. Over the past few years, China has continuously conducted military exercises in the Taiwan Strait, East and South China Seas, and carried out acts of gray-zone aggression against neighboring countries, severely undermining regional peace and stability. Taiwan and Japan, both located in the first island chain, should strengthen cooperation and respond together. Especially since Taiwan and Japan are democratic partners who share values such as freedom, democracy, and respect for human rights, if we can strengthen cooperation in areas such as maritime security, social resilience, and addressing gray-zone aggression, I am confident we can demonstrate the strength of deterrence, ensure peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region, and safeguard our cherished democratic institutions. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Japanese government for continuously speaking up for Taiwan at international venues, including this year’s US-Japan leaders’ summit, the G7 foreign ministers’ joint statement, and the Japan-NATO bilateral meeting, reiterating the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and expressing opposition to unilaterally changing the status quo by force or coercion. In the face of global economic and trade changes, economic security is becoming increasingly important, and Taiwan looks forward to further deepening economic cooperation with Japan. In addition to actively seeking to participate in the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), Taiwan hopes to sign an economic partnership agreement (EPA) with Japan as soon as possible. This will expand our cooperation in industries such as semiconductors, hydrogen energy, AI, and drones, establish a closer economic partnership, jointly strengthen the resilience of non-red supply chains, and promote mutual prosperity and development. Once again, I welcome all of our guests. I am deeply grateful for your taking concrete action to deepen Taiwan-Japan relations and show support for Taiwan. I wish you a successful and rewarding visit.  Representative Nishimura then delivered remarks, first thanking President Lai for taking time out of his busy schedule to meet with the visiting delegation. He also expressed admiration for the performance of President Lai’s government, which has allowed Taiwan to develop smoothly amidst the current complex international situation. Representative Nishimura mentioned that when former Prime Minister Abe unfortunately passed away in 2020, President Lai, who was vice president at the time, personally visited the former prime minister’s residence to offer his condolences. The representative said that including that meeting, today is the second time he and President Lai have met. This delegation’s visit to Taiwan, he said, carries on the legacy of former Prime Minister Abe. He said that Taiwan and Japan are countries that share universal values and have close ties in terms of economic cooperation and mutual visits. Notably, he highlighted, in 2024, business travelers from Taiwan made over six million visits to Japan, and based on population, Taiwan has the highest percentage of visitors to Japan. He also expressed hope that more Japanese people will visit Taiwan for tourism.   Representative Nishimura stated that the delegation visited Kaohsiung yesterday to pay their respects at the statue of former Prime Minister Abe. Then, he said, they traveled to Tainan to sample a wide variety of fruits and local delicacies, during which time they also discussed the Wushantou Reservoir, built by Japanese engineer Hatta Yoichi. Since May 8 is the anniversary of Mr. Hatta’s birth, Representative Nishimura said he hopes to use this opportunity to continue Mr. Hatta’s concern and love for Taiwan, and further deepen the friendship between Taiwan and Japan. Representative Nishimura said that when he served as Japan’s Minister of Economy, Trade, and Industry, he welcomed Taiwan’s application to join the CPTPP on behalf of the Japanese government. He also said that his government has also provided substantial assistance for the establishment of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company’s (TSMC) fab in Kumamoto, Japan. He said he believes that mutual cooperation between Taiwan and Japan in the semiconductor sector can further promote semiconductor industry development, and build a more resilient supply chain system. Representative Nishimura pointed out that former Prime Minister Abe once said, “If Taiwan has a problem, then Japan has a problem.” Currently, many European countries are also very concerned about peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region, because it is crucial to peace and stability in the entire international community. It can therefore be said that “if Taiwan has a problem, the world has a problem.” He said he believes that in order to maintain peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, like-minded countries and allied nations must all cooperate closely and definitively proclaim that message. He then said he looks forward to exchanging views with President Lai on issues such as strengthening Taiwan-Japan relations and changes in the international situation. The delegation also included Chairman of Kanagawa Prefecture Japan-Taiwan Friendship Association Matsumoto Jun, Japanese House of Representatives members Nishime Kosaburo, Sasaki Hajime, Yana Kazuo, and Katou Ryusho, and Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association Taipei Office Chief Representative Katayama Kazuyuki. 

    Details
    2025-05-02
    President Lai meets Atlantic Council delegation
    On the afternoon of May 2, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation from the Atlantic Council, a think tank based in Washington, DC. In remarks, President Lai said that we have already proposed a roadmap for deepening Taiwan-US trade ties to achieve a common objective of reducing all bilateral tariffs. At the same time, the president said, we will expand investments across the United States and create win-win outcomes for both sides through the trade and economic strategy of “Taiwan plus the US.” The president also emphasized that Taiwan is not only a bastion of freedom and democracy, but also an indispensable hub for global supply chains. He expressed hope that, given shared economic and security interests, Taiwan and the US will generate even greater synergy and prove to be each other’s strongest support. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I welcome you all to Taiwan. In particular, Vice President Matthew Kroenig visited Taiwan last June and now is making another trip less than a year later. He also contributed an important article supporting Taiwan to a major international publication, highlighting the concern that our international friends have for Taiwan. We are truly moved and thankful. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I sincerely thank all sectors of the US for their longstanding and steadfast support for Taiwan. Especially, as we face the challenges arising from the regional situation, we hope to continue deepening the Taiwan-US partnership. Holding a key position on the first island chain, Taiwan faces military threats and gray-zone aggression from China. We will continue to show our unwavering determination to defend ourselves. I want to emphasize that Taiwan is accelerating efforts to enhance its overall defense capabilities. The government will also prioritize special budget allocations to increase Taiwan’s defense spending from 2.5 percent of GDP to more than 3 percent. This reflects the efforts we are putting into safeguarding our nation and demonstrates our determination to safeguard regional peace and stability. During President Donald Trump’s first term, Taiwan purchased 66 new F-16V fighter jets. The first of these rolled off the assembly line in South Carolina at the end of this March. This is crucial for Taiwan’s strategy of achieving peace through strength. In the future, we will continue to procure defense equipment from the US that helps ensure peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. We also look forward to bilateral security collaboration evolving beyond arms sales to a partnership that encompasses joint research and development and joint manufacturing, further strengthening our cooperation and exchanges. Taiwan firmly believes in fair, free, and mutually beneficial trade ties. Indeed, we have already proposed a roadmap for deepening Taiwan-US trade ties. This includes our common objective of reducing all bilateral tariffs as well as narrowing the trade imbalance through the procurement of energy and agricultural and other industrial products from the US. At the same time, we will expand investments across the US. We will promote our “Taiwan plus one” policy, that is, the new trade and economic strategy of “Taiwan plus the US,” to build non-red supply chains and create win-win outcomes for both sides. As the US is moving to reindustrialize its manufacturing industry and may hope to become a global manufacturing center for AI, Taiwan is willing to join in the efforts. Taiwan is not only a bastion of freedom and democracy, but also an indispensable hub for global supply chains. We have every confidence that, given shared Taiwan-US economic and security interests, we can generate even greater synergy and prove to be each other’s strongest support. In closing, I thank Vice President Kroenig once again for leading this delegation, demonstrating support for Taiwan. I look forward to exchanging opinions with you all in just a few moments. I wish you a smooth and successful trip. Vice President Kroenig then delivered remarks, first thanking President Lai for hosting them. He said that it is an honor to be here and to lead a delegation from the Atlanta Council, which consists of a mix of former senior US government officials with responsibility for Taiwan and also rising stars visiting Taiwan for the first time. Vice President Kroenig said that they are here at a critical moment, as there is an ongoing war in Europe, multiple conflicts in the Middle East, and increased Chinese aggression in the Indo-Pacific. Moreover, he pointed out, the regimes of China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea are increasingly working together in a new axis of aggressors. Vice President Kroenig indicated that the challenge facing the US and its allies and partners, including Taiwan, is how to deter these autocracies and maintain global peace, prosperity, and freedom, especially in Taiwan, whose security and stability matter, not only for Taiwan, but also for the US and the world. Vice President Kroenig assured President Lai and the people of Taiwan that the US is a reliable partner for Taiwan. The vice president stated that the administration under President Trump is prioritizing the deterrence of China, and that President Trump has announced an intention to have the largest US defense budget in history, more than US$1 trillion, to resource this priority. Pointing out that an America-first president will not help a country that is not helping itself, Vice President Kroenig said that their delegation has been impressed with the steps President Lai and the administration are taking to strengthen Taiwan’s security, including increasing defense spending, developing a societal resilience strategy, and using cutting edge technologies like unmanned systems to promote indigenous defense production. Vice President Kroenig said that more than money and equipment are necessary to secure a democracy against a powerful and ruthless neighbor, adding that history shows that the human factor is the most important. In the end, he said, it will be the will of the people of Taiwan to resist coercion and to defend their home which will be the most important factor determining the future fate of Taiwan and for the ability of the people of Taiwan to chart their own destiny. Vice President Kroenig emphasized that Americans are willing to support Taiwan in this endeavor, but it will be the people of Taiwan and strong and capable leaders like President Lai at the forefront of this struggle, with the firm support of America. Vice President Kroenig said that as the US and Taiwan work together on these challenges, the Atlantic Council looks forward to offering support behind the scenes. Founded in 1961 to support the Transatlantic Alliance, he said, the Atlantic Council is a global think tank, and part of its DNA is working closely with friends and allies in the Indo-Pacific, including Taiwan. He said they look forward to continuing their close and longstanding cooperation with Taiwan through visiting delegations, research and reports, and public and private events. In closing, Vice President Kroenig thanked President Lai again for hosting them and for the work he is doing to secure the free world. The delegation also included former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for East Asia Heino Klinck and former Director for Taiwan Affairs at the White House National Security Council Marvin Park.

    Details
    2025-05-01
    President Lai meets Japan’s LDP Youth Division delegation
    On the morning of May 1, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation from Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) Youth Division. In remarks, President Lai thanked the guests for demonstrating support for deepening Taiwan-Japan ties through concrete actions. The president expressed hope that Taiwan and Japan can continue to conduct exchanges in such areas as national defense, the economy, education, culture, sports, and the arts so that bilateral relations reach even greater heights. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I want to welcome our distinguished guests, who include Diet members in the LDP Youth Division and guests from Junior Chamber International (JCI) Japan, to the Presidential Office. It is also a pleasure to see LDP Youth Division Director Nakasone Yasutaka, House of Representatives Member Hiranuma Shojiro, and House of Councillors Member Kamiya Masayuki again today. I look forward to discussions with all our distinguished guests. The LDP Youth Division and JCI Japan have once again demonstrated support for deepening Taiwan-Japan ties through concrete actions. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I also want to thank the LDP Youth Division for launching a fundraising campaign to help those affected by the earthquake in Hualien County on April 3 last year. LDP Youth Division members will be important leaders in Japan’s political arena in the future. Taiwan deeply values our exchanges with the Youth Division and hopes to bring about concrete results from such exchanges. Peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait are critical to the security and prosperity of the world, and Taiwan and Japan can work together to promote peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. Former Prime Ministers Abe Shinzo and Kishida Fumio, and current Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru have repeatedly stressed the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait at important international venues. Taiwan is deeply grateful to Japan’s current and former prime ministers for their concern and support for this issue. Taiwan and Japan can also cooperate in industry and the economy. As our industries are complementary, further cooperation can create win-win outcomes. In the semiconductor industry, for instance, Taiwan’s strengths lie in manufacturing, while Japan’s strengths lie in materials, equipment, and technology. If we work together, the semiconductor industry is sure to see even more robust development. In addition to the economy and national defense, Taiwan and Japan can also conduct exchanges in such areas as education, culture, sports, and the arts. Our countries have long shared deep ties – Director Nakasone’s grandfather, former Prime Minister Nakasone Yasuhiro, was stationed in Taiwan and lived in what is now the Mingde New Residential Quarter of Kaohsiung City’s Zuoying District. I am confident that on the basis of our already solid foundations, Taiwan-Japan relations can reach even greater heights. Director Nakasone then delivered remarks, first thanking President Lai for finding time in his busy schedule to meet with the visiting delegation. He said that the LDP Youth Division sends a visiting delegation to Taiwan each year and is always granted the opportunity to meet with the president, demonstrating his high regard for the delegation, for which the director again expressed his gratitude. He remarked that he, together with House of Representatives Member Suzuki Keisuke, visited Taiwan last July, and that whenever he visits Taiwan, it feels as if he is returning home. Director Nakasone recalled President Lai’s earlier remarks, saying that he hopes the young people of Taiwan and Japan can fully engage in exchanges in the areas of national defense, the economy, culture, education, and the arts. The director said he believes that in today’s complex and difficult international situation, such directives are necessary. This is especially so, he emphasized, during United States President Donald Trump’s second term, when things once taken for granted are no longer so, and when the global economy is undergoing significant changes. Director Nakasone expressed his full support for strengthening Taiwan and Japan’s practical and strategic cooperation. He said he believes each side will be able to benefit from such cooperation and hopes that exchanges will progress toward shared goals. He pointed out that, as maritime nations, Taiwan and Japan share the goals of protecting the ocean and using marine resources wisely, goals that we ought to cooperate on and devote our full efforts to. The peace and stability of the Taiwan Strait are critical to the peace and stability of East Asia and even the world, he said, so we must ensure that the world and its leaders recognize this point, and Japan will do its utmost to advocate for it. Director Nakasone said, on the topic of semiconductors, that Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company’s new fab in Japan’s Kumamoto Prefecture has made the area very lively, adding that the Japanese government is providing more than 1.25 trillion yen in subsidies. Moving forward, the Japanese government plans to inject an additional 10 trillion yen, he said, to aid in the development of AI and other fields. Noting that Taiwan and Japan both excel in semiconductors, he expressed his hope that each can give free rein to its strengths to produce an even greater effect. Director Nakasone said that despite Taiwan’s facing formidable internal and external circumstances, it saw 4.6 percent economic growth last year under President Lai’s strong leadership, and it continued to promote measures to enhance overall societal resilience, all of which is admirable. In closing, the director thanked President Lai once again for taking the time to meet with them. Also in attendance were Japanese House of Representatives Members Nemoto Taku and Fukuda Kaoru, and Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association Taipei Office Chief Representative Katayama Kazuyuki.

    Details
    2025-04-29
    President Lai meets NBR delegation  
    On the morning of April 29, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation from the National Bureau of Asian Research (NBR). In remarks, President Lai stated that as Taiwan stands at the very frontline of defense of global democracy, we are actively implementing our Four Pillars of Peace action plan, which includes continuing to enhance our national defense capabilities, demonstrating our commitment to defending freedom and democracy. The president said he hopes to further advance national security and industrial cooperation between Taiwan and the United States. He also expressed hope that this will help boost economic resilience for both sides and establish each as a key pillar of regional security, elevating our relations to even higher levels. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I am delighted to meet with Admiral John Aquilino again today. I also warmly welcome NBR President Michael Wills and our distinguished guests from the bureau to Taiwan. I look forward to exchanging views with you all on Taiwan-US relations and the regional situation. During his tenure as commander of the US Indo-Pacific Command, Admiral Aquilino placed much attention on the Taiwan Strait issue. And the NBR has conducted a wealth of research and analysis focusing on matters of regional security. Thanks to all of your outstanding contributions and efforts, the international community has gained a better understanding of the role Taiwan plays in the Indo-Pacific region and in global democratic development. For this, I want to extend my deepest gratitude. Taiwan stands at the very frontline of defending global democracy and is located at a strategically important location in the first island chain. We are actively implementing our Four Pillars of Peace action plan, which includes continuing to enhance our national defense capabilities, building economic security, demonstrating stable and principled cross-strait leadership, and standing side-by-side with the democratic community to jointly demonstrate the strength of deterrence and safeguard regional peace and stability. At the beginning of this month, I announced an increase in military allowances for volunteer service members and combat troops. The government will also continue to reform national defense and enhance self-sufficiency in defense. In addition, we will prioritize special budget allocations to ensure that Taiwan’s defense budget exceeds 3 percent of GDP. These efforts continue to strengthen Taiwan’s self-defense capabilities and demonstrate our commitment to defending freedom and democracy. As we mark the 46th anniversary of the enactment of the Taiwan Relations Act, we thank the US government for continuing its arms sales to Taiwan and strengthening the Taiwan-US partnership over the years. We believe that, in addition to engaging in military exchanges and cooperation, Taiwan and the US can build an even closer economic and trade relationship, boosting each other’s economic resilience and establishing each as a key pillar of regional security. I expect that your continued assistance will help advance national security and industrial cooperation between Taiwan and the US, elevating our relations to even higher levels. Once again, I welcome our distinguished guests to Taiwan and wish you a pleasant and successful trip. I hope that through this visit, you gain a more comprehensive and in-depth understanding of Taiwan’s economy and national defense. Admiral Aquilino then delivered remarks, thanking the Ministry of National Defense for the invitation and President Lai for receiving and spending time with them. Mentioning that this is his second visit in five months, he said he continues to be incredibly impressed with the president’s leadership and the actions he has taken to secure Taiwan and defend its people. Admiral Aquilino said that he has watched the efforts of the ministers on whole-of-society defense to demonstrate deterrence and added that the pace of the work is nothing short of inspiring. Admiral Aquilino noted that Taiwan’s thriving democracy is incredibly important to the peace and stability of the region. He stated that he, alongside the NBR, will continue to offer support, noting that President Wills and his team are an asset to Taiwan and the US that helps continue our close relationship and ensure peace and stability in the region.  

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    2025-04-28
    President Lai meets Japanese Diet Member and former Minister of State for Economic Security Takaichi Sanae
    On the afternoon of April 28, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Member of the Japanese House of Representatives and former Minister of State for Economic Security Takaichi Sanae. In remarks, President Lai thanked the government of Japan for repeatedly emphasizing the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait at important international venues. The president expressed hope that in the face of China’s continually expanding red supply chains, Taiwan and Japan can continue to cooperate closely in such fields as semiconductors, energy, and AI technology to create non-red supply chains that enhance economic resilience and industrial competitiveness for both sides, and jointly pave the way for further prosperity and growth in the Indo-Pacific region. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: First, I would like to extend a warm welcome to Representative Takaichi as she returns for another visit to Taiwan. I am also very happy to have Members of the House of Representatives Kikawada Hitoshi and Ozaki Masanao, and Member of the House of Councillors Sato Kei all gathered together here to engage in these very important exchanges. Our visitors will be taking part in many exchange activities during this trip. Earlier today at the Indo-Pacific Strategy Thinktank’s International Political and Economic Forum, Representative Takaichi delivered a speech in which she clearly demonstrated the great importance she places upon the friendship between Taiwan and Japan. For this I want to express my deepest appreciation to each of our guests. The peoples of Taiwan and Japan have a deep friendship and mutual trust. We have a shared commitment to the universal values of democracy, freedom, and respect for human rights, but beyond that, we both have striven to contribute to regional peace and stability. I also want to thank the government of Japan for repeatedly emphasizing the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait at important international venues. Tomorrow you will all make a trip to Kaohsiung to visit a bronze statue of former Prime Minister Abe Shinzo, who once said, “If Taiwan has a problem, then Japan has a problem.” We will always remember the firm support and friendship he showed Taiwan. Since taking office last year, I have worked hard to improve Taiwan’s whole-of-society defense resilience and implement our Four Pillars of Peace action plan. By strengthening our national defense capabilities, building up economic security, demonstrating stable and principled cross-strait leadership, and deepening partnerships with democratic countries including Japan, we can together maintain peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region and across the Taiwan Strait. At the same time, in the face of China’s continually expanding red supply chains, we hope that Taiwan and Japan, as important economic and trade partners, can continue to cooperate closely in such fields as semiconductors, energy, and AI technology to create non-red supply chains that further enhance economic resilience and industrial competitiveness for both sides. Going forward, Taiwan will work hard to play an important role in the international community and contribute its key strengths. I hope that, with the support of our guests, Taiwan can soon accede to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership and sign an economic partnership agreement (EPA) with Japan so that we can jointly pave the way for further prosperity and growth in the Indo-Pacific region. Lastly, I thank each of you once again for taking concrete action to support Taiwan. I am confident that your visit will help deepen Taiwan-Japan ties and create even greater opportunities for cooperation. Let us all strive together to keep propelling Taiwan-Japan relations forward.  Representative Takaichi then delivered remarks, first thanking President Lai and Taiwanese political leaders for the warm hospitality they extended to the delegation, and mentioning that the visiting delegation members are all like-minded partners carrying on the legacy of former Prime Minister Abe. July 8 this year will mark the third anniversary of the passing of former Prime Minister Abe, she said, and when the former prime minister unfortunately passed away, President Lai, then serving as vice president, was among the first to come offer condolences, for which she expressed sincere admiration and gratitude. Representative Takaichi stated that Taiwan and Japan are island nations that face the same circumstances and problems, and that Japan’s trade activities rely heavily on ocean transport, so once a problem arises nearby that threatens maritime shipping lanes, it will be a matter of life and death for Japan. Taiwan and Japan are similar, as once a problem arises, both will face food and energy security issues, and supply chains may even be threatened, she said. Regarding Taiwan-Japan cooperation, Representative Takaichi stated that both sides must first protect and strengthen supply chain resilience. President Lai has previously said that he wants to turn Taiwan into an AI island, she said, and in semiconductors, Taiwan has the world’s leading technology. Representative Takaichi went on to say that Taiwan and Japan can collaborate in the fields of AI and semiconductors, quantum computing, and dual-use industries, as well as in areas such as drones and new energy technologies to build more resilient supply chains, so that if problems arise, we can maintain our current standard of living with peace of mind. Representative Takaichi indicated that cooperation in the defense sector is also crucial, and that by uniting like-minded countries including Taiwan, the United States, Japan, the Philippines, and Australia, and even countries in Europe, we can build a stronger network to jointly maintain our security guarantees. Representative Takaichi expressed hope that Taiwan and Japan will continue to strengthen substantive non-governmental relations, including personnel exchange visits and information sharing, so that we can jointly face and respond to crises when they arise. Regarding the hope to sign a Taiwan-Japan EPA that President Lai had mentioned earlier, she also expressed support and said she looks forward to upcoming exchanges and talks. The visiting delegation also included Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association Taipei Office Chief Representative Katayama Kazuyuki.

    Details
    2025-04-06
    President Lai delivers remarks on US tariff policy response
    On April 6, President Lai Ching-te delivered recorded remarks regarding the impact of the 32 percent tariff that the United States government recently imposed on imports from Taiwan in the name of reciprocity. In his remarks, President Lai explained that the government will adopt five response strategies, including making every effort to improve reciprocal tariff rates through negotiations, adopting a support plan for affected domestic industries, adopting medium- and long-term economic development plans, forming new “Taiwan plus the US” arrangements, and launching industry listening tours. The president emphasized that as we face this latest challenge, the government and civil society will work hand in hand, and expressed hope that all parties, both ruling and opposition, will support the measures that the Executive Yuan will take to open up a broader path for Taiwan’s economy. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: My fellow citizens, good evening. The US government recently announced higher tariffs on countries around the world in the name of reciprocity, including imposing a 32 percent tariff on imports from Taiwan. This is bound to have a major impact on our nation. Various countries have already responded, and some have even adopted retaliatory measures. Tremendous changes in the global economy are expected. Taiwan is an export-led economy, and in facing future challenges there will inevitably be difficulties, so we must proceed carefully to turn danger into safety. During this time, I want to express gratitude to all sectors of society for providing valuable opinions, which the government regards highly, and will use as a reference to make policy decisions.  However, if we calmly and carefully analyze Taiwan’s trade with the US, we find that last year Taiwan’s exports to the US were valued at US$111.4 billion, accounting for 23.4 percent of total export value, with the other 75-plus percent of products sold worldwide to countries other than the US. Of products sold to the US, competitive ICT products and electronic components accounted for 65.4 percent. This shows that Taiwan’s economy does still have considerable resilience. As long as our response strategies are appropriate, and the public and private sectors join forces, we can reduce impacts. Please do not panic. To address the reciprocal tariffs by the US, Taiwan has no plans to adopt retaliatory tariffs. There will be no change in corporate investment commitments to the US, as long as they are consistent with national interests. But we must ensure the US clearly understands Taiwan’s contributions to US economic development. More importantly, we must actively seek to understand changes in the global economic situation, strengthen Taiwan-US industry cooperation, elevate the status of Taiwan industries in global supply chains, and with safeguarding the continued development of Taiwan’s economy as our goal, adopt the following five strategies to respond. Strategy one: Make every effort to improve reciprocal tariff rates through negotiations using the following five methods:  1. Taiwan has already formed a negotiation team led by Vice Premier Cheng Li-chiun (鄭麗君). The team includes members from the National Security Council, the Office of Trade Negotiations, and relevant Executive Yuan ministries and agencies, as well as academia and industry. Like the US-Mexico-Canada free trade agreement, negotiations on tariffs can start from Taiwan-US bilateral zero-tariff treatment. 2. To expand purchases from the US and thereby reduce the trade deficit, the Executive Yuan has already completed an inventory regarding large-scale procurement plans for agricultural, industrial, petroleum, and natural gas products, and the Ministry of National Defense has also proposed a military procurement list. All procurement plans will be actively pursued. 3. Expand investments in the US. Taiwan’s cumulative investment in the US already exceeds US$100 billion, creating approximately 400,000 jobs. In the future, in addition to increased investment in the US by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, other industries such as electronics, ICT, petrochemicals, and natural gas can all increase their US investments, deepening Taiwan-US industry cooperation. Taiwan’s government has helped form a “Taiwan investment in the US” team, and hopes that the US will reciprocate by forming a “US investment in Taiwan” team to bring about closer Taiwan-US trade cooperation, jointly creating a future economic golden age.  4. We must eliminate non-tariff barriers to trade. Non-tariff barriers are an indicator by which the US assesses whether a trading partner is trading fairly with the US. Therefore, we will proactively resolve longstanding non-tariff barriers so that negotiations can proceed more smoothly. 5. We must resolve two issues that have been matters of longstanding concern to the US. One regards high-tech export controls, and the other regards illegal transshipment of dumped goods, otherwise referred to as “origin washing.” Strategy two: We must adopt a plan for supporting our industries. For industries that will be affected by the tariffs, and especially traditional industries as well as micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises, we will provide timely and needed support and assistance. Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) and his administrative team recently announced a package of 20 specific measures designed to address nine areas. Moving forward, the support we provide to different industries will depend on how they are affected by the tariffs, will take into account the particular features of each industry, and will help each industry innovate, upgrade, and transform. Strategy three: We must adopt medium- and long-term economic development plans. At this point in time, our government must simultaneously adopt new strategies for economic and industrial development. This is also the fundamental path to solutions for future economic challenges. The government will proactively cooperate with friends and allies, develop a diverse range of markets, and achieve closer integration of entities in the upper, middle, and lower reaches of industrial supply chains. This course of action will make Taiwan’s industrial ecosystem more complete, and will help Taiwanese industries upgrade and transform. We must also make good use of the competitive advantages we possess in such areas as semiconductor manufacturing, integrated chip design, ICT, and smart manufacturing to build Taiwan into an AI island, and promote relevant applications for food, clothing, housing, and transportation, as well as military, security and surveillance, next-generation communications, and the medical and health and wellness industries as we advance toward a smarter, more sustainable, and more prosperous new Taiwan. Strategy four: “Taiwan plus one,” i.e., new “Taiwan plus the US” arrangements: While staying firmly rooted in Taiwan, our enterprises are expanding their global presence and marketing worldwide. This has been our national economic development strategy, and the most important aspect is maintaining a solid base here in Taiwan. We absolutely must maintain a solid footing, and cannot allow the present strife to cause us to waver. Therefore, our government will incentivize investments, carry out deregulation, and continue to improve Taiwan’s investment climate by actively resolving problems involving access to water, electricity, land, human resources, and professional talent. This will enable corporations to stay in Taiwan and continue investing here. In addition, we must also help the overseas manufacturing facilities of offshore Taiwanese businesses to make necessary adjustments to support our “Taiwan plus one” policy, in that our national economic development strategy will be adjusted as follows: to stay firmly rooted in Taiwan while expanding our global presence, strengthening US ties, and marketing worldwide. We intend to make use of the new state of supply chains to strengthen cooperation between Taiwanese and US industries, and gain further access to US markets. Strategy five: Launch industry listening tours: All industrial firms, regardless of sector or size, will be affected to some degree once the US reciprocal tariffs go into effect. The administrative teams led by myself and Premier Cho will hear out industry concerns so that we can quickly resolve problems and make sure policies meet actual needs. My fellow citizens, over the past half-century and more, Taiwan has been through two energy crises, the Asian financial crisis, the global financial crisis, and pandemics. We have been able to not only withstand one test after another, but even turn crises into opportunities. The Taiwanese economy has emerged from these crises stronger and more resilient than ever. As we face this latest challenge, the government and civil society will work hand in hand, and I hope that all parties in the legislature, both ruling and opposition, will support the measures that the Executive Yuan will take to open up a broader path for Taiwan’s economy. Let us join together and give it our all. Thank you.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 9 May 2025 News release Safer walking and cycling crucial for road safety and better health

    Source: World Health Organisation

    As the 8th UN Global Road Safety Week kicks off around the world under the theme “Make walking and cycling safe,” the World Health Organization (WHO) has launched a new toolkit to help governments promote active mobility – by making it safer.

    Each year, nearly 1.2 million people lose their lives on the roads, more than a quarter of them while walking or cycling. Yet, only 0.2% of the roads worldwide are equipped with cycle lanes, and far too many communities lack basics like sidewalks or safe pedestrian crossings.

    “Walking and cycling improve health and make cities more sustainable. Every step and every ride help to cut congestion, air pollution and disease,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “But we must make walking and cycling safe, so more people choose these healthier, greener options.”

    Despite their benefits, fewer than one-third of countries have national policies to promote walking and cycling. WHO’s new toolkit aims to fill that gap with practical, evidence-based guidance for policymakers, urban planners, health advocates and civil society. The toolkit calls for bold action including:

    • integrating walking and cycling into transport, health, environmental and education policies;
    • building safe infrastructure like sidewalks, crossings and protected cycle lanes;
    • setting and enforcing safer speed limits aligned with global best practices;
    • promoting safe road use through public awareness and behaviour change campaigns; and
    • using financial incentives to encourage active mobility.

    While global pedestrian deaths dropped slightly and cyclist deaths plateaued between 2011 and 2021, regional trends show growing danger:

    • In the WHO South-East Asia Region, pedestrian deaths rose by 42%.
    • In the European Region, cyclist deaths surged by 50%.
    • In the Western Pacific Region, cyclist deaths soared by 88%.

    This week, WHO joins hundreds of organizations and governments worldwide to demand urgent action on road safety. The Global Alliance of NGOs for Road Safety is mobilizing over 400 member organizations in 100 countries to support the campaign.

    “It is urgent to make, what should be our most natural means of transport, safer. This is paramount for road safety, but also health, equity and climate,” said Etienne Krug, Director of the WHO Department for the Social Determinants of Health. “We’re calling on all sectors – transport, health, education and beyond – to make walking and cycling safe and accessible for everyone.”

    MIL OSI United Nations News –