NewzIntel.com

Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI China: SCO dialogue partners eye deeper cooperation with China

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    At a recent investment promotion event in north China’s Tianjin Municipality, Turkish businessman Mehmet Sahin was seen exchanging business cards with entrepreneurs from Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) member countries.

    This undated file photo shows a view of the China-Egypt TEDA Suez Economic and Trade Cooperation Zone in Ain Sokhna district of Suez province, Egypt. (TEDA Investment Holding Co., Ltd./Handout via Xinhua)

    “I really appreciate attending this event,” said Sahin, vice president of global purchasing and logistics at Hattat Holding A.S., a Turkish company engaged in energy, automotive, agricultural and real estate development. He noted his assurance that the event would help him meet with potential Chinese and Russian investors and cooperation partners.

    The China-SCO Sustainable Development Industrial Investment Promotion Event, which concluded on Friday, saw Sahin’s company engage in negotiations with the China Coal Technology & Engineering Group to explore investment opportunities in potential coal-cleaning projects.

    Broader cooperation with Chinese enterprises is also underway in sectors such as engine assembly, production and sales, as well as wind power generation, according to Sahin.

    “This event has been a good start, and the upcoming SCO summit will further promote mutual understanding and future planning among all participating countries,” he said.

    China will host an SCO summit in Tianjin this autumn. Among the summit’s advance events, the promotional event Sahin attended has brought fresh momentum to economic and trade cooperation between China and SCO member states, observer states and dialogue partners.

    Türkiye, Sri Lanka, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia were among the participating SCO dialogue partners.

    During the event, the China-Egypt TEDA Suez Economic and Trade Cooperation Zone disclosed significant progress.

    The Tianjin TEDA Electric Power Company announced a partnership with SCZone Utilities S.A.E., and revealed that the China-Africa TEDA Investment Co., Ltd., which developed the cooperation zone, will build a 200-megawatt substation.

    This critical infrastructure project aims to resolve power supply constraints for major projects in the cooperation zone, lower business costs for enterprises while drawing in premium investors, and accelerate industrial clustering in the zone, according to Wang Weihua, general manager of the Tianjin TEDA Electric Power Company.

    Established in 2008, the zone has become Egypt’s most competitive industrial hub, serving as a benchmark of China-Egypt cooperation.

    “Tianjin TEDA is one of our best partners,” said Ahmed Salaheldin Abdelfattah Elhomosani, general manager of SCZone Utilities S.A.E., noting that the cooperation zone has attracted a significant amount of investment.

    Trade between China and SCO member states, observer states and dialogue partners came in at a record high of 890 billion U.S. dollars in 2024, accounting for approximately 14.4 percent of China’s total foreign trade that year, according to official statistics.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China expands pilot programs to accelerate service opening up

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    China will expand its comprehensive pilot programs to more cities to accelerate the opening up of the service sector, according to the State Council on Friday.

    Nine additional cities — Dalian, Ningbo, Xiamen, Qingdao, Shenzhen, Hefei, Fuzhou, Xi’an, and Suzhou — will be able to carry out comprehensive pilot programs, the State Council said in its approval of a work plan that aims to expand comprehensive pilot programs.

    Efforts should be made to expand voluntary opening up in an orderly manner, tap into the potential of China’s supersized market, promote high-quality development of the service sector, and contribute to building new institutions for a higher-standard open economy, according to the State Council.

    The pilot programs will cover key sectors such as finance and healthcare and include measures like improving social security services for foreign residents and promoting inter-hospital data sharing, according to the Ministry of Commerce.

    China’s annual trade in services exceeded $1 trillion for the first time last year, demonstrating significant potential for further growth.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Employment Issues – Strike action brewing at large home support employer – PSA

    Source: PSA

    Home Support workers will hold stop-work meetings tomorrow in response to their employer, Access Community Health, offering them no pay increase and reduced work conditions, despite the company receiving increased government funding.
    Workers at these meetings will be discussing what options they wish to take in response to this poor attitude from their employer.
    Stop work meetings will be held from 8am to 10am tomorrow, for over 1000 union members. Most earn the minimum wage and some slightly more, but none have received a pay increase for nearly two years.
    Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi assistant secretary, Melissa Woolley, says Access offered no pay increase, instead, is proposing to reduce sick leave, and remove pay recognition for qualifications and tenure, while introducing 90-day trials.
    “Removing pay recognition for qualifications and tenure was won by all care and support workers as part of the historic care and support pay equity settlement. It is outrageous that Access Community Health want to undo that historic settlement at their first opportunity since the support workers settlement act has expired,” says Wooley.
    “Having a well-qualified care and support worker workforce was a fundamental element of the negotiations that led to the care and support worker settlement in 2017 that was delivered under a National led government,” says Woolley.
    “It’s despicable that while Access has received increased funding in Government contracts, no pay increase has passed on to workers. Instead, they chose to pass on their profit off the back of low paid women workers to their shareholders.
    “The company is imposing clawing back terms and conditions, and no cost of living increases to already struggling care and support workers. Our society can’t function without support workers, but their low pay rates block them from going to the dentist or getting the car serviced which is critical to them performing their roles. These workers are already subsidizing the system by using their own cars for work to travel in between clients.
    “This blatant attack on workers has major connections to the health crisis. When Access do not value their staff, clients suffer the effects of short-staffing – missing the carers they need to shower and get dressed in the morning. Access needs to come to the table with a reasonable pay offer that respects their people,” says Woolley.
    The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest trade union, representing and supporting more than 95,000 workers across central government, state-owned enterprises, local councils, health boards and community groups.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Transport – Driver licence changes will benefit road transport industry

    Source: Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand

    Road freight industry group Transporting New Zealand is welcoming proposed changes to driver licensing rules, saying they will help encourage more young people to become truck drivers.
    Transport Minister Chris Bishop says the changes would remove the need for new drivers to take a second practical test to get their full licence. Other proposed changes include toughening up alcohol restrictions and reducing the number demerit points required before a driver can have their licence suspended.
    Transporting New Zealand chief executive Dom Kalasih says that attracting more young drivers is critical for the future of the industry. A large proportion of truck drivers are older, with many of them over 60, and as they retire that will lead to a driver shortage, which in turn will hurt the economy. Other countries are also facing this issue.
    In the recent 2025 National Road Freight Industry survey, conducted by Research New Zealand, almost all industry respondents ranked workforce challenges as one of the top issues facing the industry with 94 per cent of respondents agreeing that the industry needs to attract more young people. There was also general agreement the current heavy vehicle driver licensing system makes it too difficult for new entrants to join the road freight industry.
    Kalasih says getting their class one licence is the essential first step for young drivers progressing on to more specialised heavy vehicle licences, but fewer young people have been getting their licences compared with recent decades. He supports any move that makes it easier for young people to get their licence.
    However, Kalasih agrees with the Automobile Association that safety is the number one priority and that the details of the proposed changes must be carefully examined. He welcomes the road transport industry being involved in consultation before the changes are introduced in the middle of next year.
    About Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand
    Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand is the peak national membership association representing the road freight transport industry. Our members operate urban, rural and inter- regional commercial freight transport services throughout the country.
    Road is the dominant freight mode in New Zealand, transporting 92.8% of the freight task on a tonnage basis, and 75.1% on a tonne-km basis. The road freight transport industry employs over 34,000 people across more than 4700 businesses, with an annual turnover of $6 billion.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: 122-2025: Methyl bromide fumigation methodology – New record of fumigation and treatment certificate templates now available

    Source: New South Wales Government 2

    14 April 2025

    Who does this notice affect?

    Import-related biosecurity treatment stakeholders, including all importers, brokerages, onshore approved arrangement holders, overseas government and industry treatment providers, relevant domestic state and territory government agencies, and other shipping, freight, and logistics peak industry bodies.

    What has changed?

    This is a reminder that the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (the department) will…

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Take eggs-tra care on the water

    Source: New South Wales – News

    Back-to-back Easter and Anzac Day long weekends will see officers from South Australia Police (SAPOL) continue working with partner agencies as part of ongoing water safety operations.

    An increase in people enjoying a variety of waterways is egg-spected over the period, with police and Marine Safety Officers ramping up patrols across inland and coastal locations coinciding with school holidays.

    “We encourage the public to make the most of the warm weather and enjoy our waterways, but they must do so safely,” Senior Sergeant Darian Leske from SAPOL’s Water Operations Unit said.

    “Police will be working with our partner agencies to ensure everyone is acting responsibly while on the water, by detecting breaches of the Harbours and Navigation Act.

    “We will be conducting safety equipment checks and random alcohol and drug testing of boat operators, observers and skiers, because as on land, a blood alcohol limit of 0.05 applies.”

    From 27 December 2024 to 3 February 2025, Operation Riversafe saw 205 vessel checks by police alone, 204 alco tests, 115 drug tests, 28 cautions, eight expiations and six reports (four positive drugs, two prescribed concentration of alcohol). Marine Safety Officers also support this operation.

    In addition to having a road safety operation in place, SAPOL is also mindful avoidable water tragedies can occur when risks are taken.

    “While South Australians are being asked to ‘keep it sweet on the road’ this Easter, let’s also keep it sweet on the water,” Senior Sergeant Leske urged.

    “Alcohol or drugs and water don’t mix. An incident at Mannum over the Australia Day long weekend is a prime example of this.”

    Failing to carry appropriate safety equipment, misuse of or not carrying lifejackets, outdated flares, unregistered vessels and exceeding speed limits were the top five non-compliance issues among water users last Easter period.

    “It only takes a moment to put a lifejacket on, but not wearing one on the water when trouble strikes can cost your life in an instant,” Gordon Panton, Manager Marine Safety and Compliance at the Department for Infrastructure and Transport, said.

    “More than one third of the vessels we checked last Easter on coastal waters and at boat ramps were non-compliant, with misuse of or not carrying lifejackets among the most common issues.

    “Boaties and holidaymakers are reminded to check their lifejackets are to standard, fit well, and are in good working condition, that they are operating safely and keeping to speed limits around other water users, and they have the right safety equipment on board.”

    Since 1 January 2025, older standard lifejackets have no longer been acceptable to use, and jackets must now meet the AS 4758 standard.

    Fisheries will also have an on-water and on-land presence across the entire state over the Easter and Anzac Day long weekends, and officers will be especially checking compliance with the no take zones for snapper over the period.

    “We ask that fishers adhere to size and bag limits and fishing gear regulations and are encouraged to access the Rec Fishing App or the PIRSA website for further information,” Gary Darter, acting General Manager Operations Support at PIRSA, said.

    “To combat the spread of the Abalone virus AVG, decontamination protocols apply to fishing devices and boats, especially those operating from the Murray Mouth to the Victorian Border.

    “Remember, Check, Clean and Dry.  Full details are also on the PIRSA website.

    “If you see anything unusual, please report any concerns to Fishwatch on 1800 065 522.”

    Plus, don’t forget:

    * Let someone know where you’re going and when you’ll be back.

    * Slow your vessel to 4 knots when near other boats, ramps, jetties, swimmers, surfaces and the shore.

    * Keep your keys in a safe location. Do not hide them in your car, caravan or boat.

    * Remove fishing rods, tackle boxes and eskies from boats and trailers when not in use.

    * Securely attach trailers and boats to a vehicle or a solid fixture when not in use.

    * Be aware of water safety issues at the beach or at the river including rips and currents, maritime safety and the dangers of marine life.

    * Never leave valuable items unattended or under a beach towel. Use a watertight container or leave your items secured in your holiday home.

    For more information on boating rules and regulations, visit: South Australian boating safety handbook (marinesafety.sa.gov.au)

    Report any suspicious behaviour to SAPOL by calling 131 444.

    Gordon Panton, Manager Marine Safety and Compliance at the Department for Infrastructure and Transport, Senior Sergeant Darian Leske from SAPOL’s Water Operations Unit and Gary Darter, acting General Manager Operations Support at PIRSA at North Haven Marina today, sharing a school holiday water safety message.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Clorox ordered to pay $8.25m in penalties for misleading ‘ocean plastic’ claims about certain GLAD products

    Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development

    The Federal Court today ordered Clorox Australia Pty Ltd (Clorox) to pay a total penalty of $8.25 million for making false or misleading representations to consumers that certain GLAD kitchen and garbage bags were partly made of recycled ‘ocean plastic’, following court action by the ACCC.

    Clorox admitted that, between June 2021 and July 2023, it breached the Australian Consumer Law by representing on the packaging of its GLAD to be GREEN “50% Ocean Plastic Recycled” Kitchen Tidy Bags and Garbage Bags products that the products were made of at least 50 per cent recycled plastic waste collected from the ocean or sea, when this was not the case. More than 2.2 million products were supplied in this packaging over this period.

    Rather, the products were made from about 50 per cent plastic waste which had been collected from communities in Indonesia with no formal waste management systems, situated up to 50 kilometres from a shoreline, and otherwise from non-recycled plastic, processing aid and dye.

    “Claims about environmental benefits matter to many consumers and may impact their purchasing behaviour. When those claims are false or misleading, this is a serious breach of trust, as well as the Australian Consumer Law,” ACCC Chair Gina Cass-Gottlieb said.

    “This is also a significant matter because consumers have limited or no ability to independently verify the accuracy of the claims made on packaging and it also disadvantages competitors who are accurately communicating their environmental credentials.”

    “We consider this penalty is appropriate in this case where Clorox gave insufficient consideration to what ‘ocean plastic’ meant to an ordinary consumer, particularly in light of the blue colour and wave imaging on the packaging,” Ms Cass-Gottlieb said.

    The Court held that these features “connoted a relationship between the Products and the ocean” and the “reference to ‘green’ on the Packaging connoted environmental-friendliness”, and that these were “important contextual matters in assessing the contravening conduct”.

    It was also observed by the Court that “there is a particular societal harm that arises when conduct undermines consumers’ confidence in environmental claims”, adding that the “development of products that minimise adverse environmental impacts is beneficial” but “[e]nvironmental claims are useful for consumers only if they are accurate.”  

    Clorox was also ordered to set up an Australian Consumer Law compliance program, publish a corrective notice on its website, and pay part of the ACCC’s legal costs, among other orders.

    “While the ACCC encourages businesses to innovate and offer environmentally sustainable products, businesses need to be clear and accurate when making representations about them. We take allegations of greenwashing extremely seriously and will continue to monitor claims made by businesses and, where appropriate, will take enforcement action on misleading environmental claims,” Ms Cass-Gottlieb said.

    Clorox cooperated with the ACCC during its investigation and the legal proceedings, made admissions, and agreed to make joint submissions with the ACCC to the Court, including on the appropriate total penalty and other orders.

    Clorox discontinued the products in July 2023, after it became aware the ACCC had started investigating, but before the ACCC commenced these proceedings.

    Examples of the misleading packaging

    Between June 2021 and about 13 November 2022, the packaging of Clorox’s small, medium, and large Kitchen Tidy Bags included the statements ‘50% Ocean Plastic Recycled Bags’, and ‘Made using 50% Ocean Plastic*’ around an image of a wave, overlaid on an image of a blue coloured waste disposal bag.

    The back of the packaging carried the following statements in smaller font:

    ‘These bags are made from 50% ocean recycled plastic, and have the trusted strength of Glad® to hold household waste on its way to landfill. Recycling ocean bound plastic reduces plastic pollution before it enters the ocean, helping to reduce pollution in waterways, save marine life and put an end to irresponsible waste.’

    ‘*Made using 50% ocean bound plastic that is collected from communities with no formal waste management system within 50 km of the shore line.’

    These statements were insufficient to dispel the false or misleading ocean plastic representation.

    From about 6 March 2022, Clorox began updating the packaging to include the statement ‘Made using 50% Ocean Bound Plastic*’ on the front of the packaging.

    Clorox also updated the statements, which appeared in small font on the back of the Kitchen Tidy Bags’ packaging as follows (changes in bold):

    ‘These bags are made from 50% ocean bound recycled plastic, and have the trusted strength of Glad® to hold household waste on its way to landfill. Recycling ocean bound plastic reduces plastic pollution before it enters the ocean, helping to reduce pollution in waterways, making the seas safer for marine life, and helping to put an end to irresponsible waste.’

    ‘*Made using 50% ocean bound recycled plastic that is collected from communities with no formal waste management system within 50 km of the shore line.’

    These changes were insufficient to dispel the false or misleading ocean plastic representation.

     Clorox discontinued the products in July 2023.

    Garbage Bags

    Between about May 2022 and July 2023, the packaging of its large and extra-large Garbage Bags included the statements ‘50% Ocean Plastic Recycled Garbage Bags’, and ‘Made using 50% Ocean Bound Plastic*’ around an image of a wave, overlaid on an image of a blue coloured waste disposal bag.

    The back of the packaging also carried two statements in smaller font, which sought to qualify the ocean plastic representation:

    ‘These strong garbage bags are made from 50% ocean bound recycled plastic, and have the trusted strength of Glad® to hold waste on its way to landfill. Recycling ocean bound plastic reduces plastic pollution before it enters the ocean, helping to reduce pollution in waterways, making the seas safer for marine life, and helping to put an end to irresponsible waste.’

    ‘*Made using 50% ocean bound recycled plastic that is collected from communities with no formal waste management system within 50 km of the shore line.’

    Again, this information was insufficient to dispel the false or misleading ocean plastic representation.

    Background

    Clorox supplies various consumer goods, including garbage bags and kitchen tidy bags, under the GLAD brand. The products subject to these proceedings were available in major retailers including Woolworths and Coles.

    In April 2024, the ACCC instituted proceedings in the Federal Court against Clorox Australia Pty Limited.

    In December 2023, the ACCC released its guidance on making environmental claims for businesses, which explains business’ obligations under the Australian Consumer Law when they make environmental and sustainability claims. It also sets out what the ACCC considers to be misleading conduct and good practice when making such claims, to help businesses provide clear, accurate and trustworthy information to consumers about the environmental performance of their business.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Police Minister to visit Mpumalanga drug labs following arrests 

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Sunday, April 13, 2025

    Police Minster Senzo Mchunu is this afternoon expected to visit two drug laboratories and a warehouse which were discovered and shut down by the Hawks in Mpumalanga this week, said the Ministry of Police.

    In a statement, the Ministry said the Minister will be accompanied by the National Commissioner of Police, General Fannie Masemola, together with the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation National Head, (Dr./Adv) Lieutenant General Godfrey Lebeya.

    The discovery was made in Standerton.

    “Equipment and substances with an estimated value of R48 million and seven vehicles have been seized for further investigation. Nine suspects have been arrested,” said the Ministry ahead of Sunday’s visit.

    On Wednesday, the Hawks said that two suspects would appear in the Standerton Magistrate’s Court after the arrest of six Mozambican nationals.

    This as the Hawks’ Secunda based Serious Organised Crime investigation monitored the origin of drugs in Standerton after numerous cases of possession of drugs were reported. 

    “The task was successfully executed as two clandestine laboratories were clamped down within a week,” the Hawks said at the time.

    Additionally, a pressing machine and 35 buckets filled with powder and ready to be pressed into tablets were recovered.  –SAnews.gov.za 
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Samsung and the United Nations Development Programme Welcome Five New Young Leaders to Generation17

    Source: Samsung

    Samsung Electronics today announced the addition of five new Young Leaders to Generation17, an initiative in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) that supports young changemakers driving progress to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), also known as the ‘Global Goals.’
     
    Since launching Generation17 in 2020, Samsung and UNDP have supported Young Leaders from across Asia, Africa, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East and North America, addressing critical issues that span all 17 Global Goals. The partnership has provided these Young Leaders with the latest Samsung Galaxy technology, along with networking and mentorship opportunities, to amplify their stories and advance their work. The newest cohort, focused on advancing solutions in marine conservation, environmental sustainability, gender equality and quality education, reflects Samsung’s continued commitment to a more equitable future for all.
     
    “As we accelerate efforts to achieve the Global Goals, we are proud to welcome the next cohort of Young Leaders to Generation17,” said Stephanie Choi, EVP & Head of Marketing, Mobile eXperience Business, Samsung Electronics. “Their passion, creativity and commitment to addressing global challenges embody the spirit of innovation that fuels meaningful change. We look forward to seeing how these five new Young Leaders will leverage technology for good to inspire action, mobilize communities and create lasting impact for a more sustainable and equitable world.”
     
     
    Five Global Changemakers
    The newest Generation17 Young Leaders were selected from hundreds of applicants and bring new areas of expertise to the initiative, expanding the reach of Generation17. As members of the Generation17 community, they will leverage technology and global platforms to advocate for the issues that matter most to them.
     

     
    Brigitta Gunawan (Indonesia) — An ocean-climate advocate who has engaged with over 15,000 people in 100+ locations with environmental education and marine conservation opportunities through her organizations 30×30 Indonesia and Diverseas.
     
    “At 17, it struck me that we were nothing but a small speck in a big world that remains largely unexplored — that if we continued as bystanders, we would see this fragile ecosystem cripple within our lifetime — so there I was, ready to co-create a future where people and planet prosper.”
     
    José Francisco Ochoa (Ecuador) — A biologist and co-founder of Academia del Océano, an edtech platform promoting marine conservation, digital tools and sustainability in Spanish-speaking communities, equipping thousands with the tools to protect marine ecosystems.
     
    “The ocean sustains life, yet many don’t realize how deeply connected we are to it. We must embrace innovation, education and collective action to protect our blue planet before it’s too late.”
     
    Renata Koch Alvarenga (Brazil) — Founder and Executive Director of EmpoderaClima, a youth-led organization advocating for climate justice by addressing the disproportionate impact of climate change on women and promoting girls’ climate action.
     
    “Climate disasters are exacerbating gender inequality, but through the Global Goals, we can raise awareness of the need for women’s leadership in climate decision-making and ensure no one is left behind.”
     
    Rahaf Abu Mayyaleh (Jordan) — A climate activist, sustainable technology advocate and founder of IBTKRGO, which develops eco-friendly educational kits using recyclable materials, including e-waste, to empower youth with digital skills.
     
    “Green technology is key to a sustainable future, and young innovators have the power to lead this transformation. Through IBTKRGO, I strive to bridge the gap between technology and sustainability, ensuring solutions that serve both people and the planet.”
     
    Soumya Dabriwal (India) — Co-founder of Project Baala, a social enterprise addressing menstrual hygiene and reproductive health access through innovative solutions, including the sustainable distribution of reusable sanitary products and educational initiatives to de-stigmatize women’s health while generating employment for women.
     
    “Access to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) is a fundamental human right. Through collective advocacy and innovation, we can break barriers, challenge stigmas and build a world where everyone has the freedom and resources to make informed choices about their own bodies and futures.”
     
     
    Elevating Youth Voices for Global Action
    Since the launch of Generation17 in 2020, Samsung and UNDP have partnered to empower Young Leaders — helping them amplify their stories and accelerate their efforts to drive meaningful change in communities across the world. Additionally, the initiative provides opportunities for Young Leaders to showcase their impact on a global scale.
     
    In the coming months, these Young Leaders will attend various major global events, where they will engage with policymakers, innovators and fellow changemakers. Through these platforms, they will contribute to international conversations on sustainable development and drive tangible progress toward the Global Goals, ensuring that youth voices play a crucial role in shaping a more sustainable future.
     
    This year, Generation17 alum Tamara Gondo took the stage at Samsung’s Galaxy Tech Forum, highlighting the company’s commitment to sustainability and the power of collaboration with like-minded partners to tackle worldwide challenges. She also shared how the initiative has helped scale her organization’s impact since she joined in 2022.
     
    “Young people are the future of global development, and with fewer than five years left to achieve the Global Goals, the time to act is now,” said Achim Steiner, Administrator of UNDP. “Through our long-standing partnership with Samsung, we are empowering youth to advance solutions that address climate and human rights challenges and to inspire a new generation to join the fight for a more sustainable and just future.”
     
    Generation17 reflects the shared commitment of Samsung and UNDP to harness technology for positive impact. Their collaboration began in 2019 with the launch of the Samsung Global Goals App — a mobile platform that educates users about the Goals while enabling them to contribute through everyday use of their Galaxy devices. As detailed in Samsung’s Global Goals Report, as of September 2024, the app has been installed on nearly 300 million Samsung Galaxy devices worldwide — including smartphones, tablets and smartwatches — and has helped generate more than $20 million USD to support UNDP’s global environmental and social initiatives.
     
     
    About UNDP
    UNDP is the leading United Nations organization fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality and climate change. Working with a broad network of experts and partners in 170 countries, UNDP helps nations to build integrated, lasting solutions for people and planet. Learn more at www.undp.org.
     
    About Generation17
    Generation17 is an initiative from Samsung and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) that elevates the voices of Young Leaders who are changing the world and contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) or ‘Global Goals.’ Samsung and UNDP are providing mentorship, technology and networking opportunities for the Young Leaders as they advance their work. Learn more at www.undp.org/generation17.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Huawei Launches Five Solutions to Accelerate Aviation Intelligence

    Source: Huawei

    Headline: Huawei Launches Five Solutions to Accelerate Aviation Intelligence

    [Madrid, Spain, April 14, 2025] During the Passenger Terminal Expo 2025 in Madrid, Huawei launched five aviation solutions, notably including the Smart Airport Intelligent Operation Center (IOC) to advance intelligent industry upgrades. Huawei executives, including Mr. Dong Fangshuo, Vice President of Huawei’s Smart Transportation BU, Mr. Yang Guojie, Director of Transportation Industry Solution Domain from Huawei’s Data Communication Product Line, Eric Liu, Chief Engineer of Huawei Optical Network Business, and Dr. Rachad Nassar, Director of Global Business & Strategic Partners of Huawei’s Smart Transportation BU attended the launch event.
    Huawei launches five aviation solutions

    The five solutions unveiled will lay a solid foundation for aviation to “go broadband, go cloud, and go AI.” They are:
    Huawei’s Smart Airport Intelligent Operation Center (IOC) enables precise and efficient decision-making through all-domain situational awareness. With Total Airport Management (TAM) concept at its heart, the IOC streamlines management and operations systems and seamlessly connects more than 30 airport production systems, providing a holistic view on one map. Capitalizing on AI algorithms, the IOC accurately predicts the time when an aircraft moves into the stand, optimizes resource allocation, and improves the rate of aircraft docking to jet bridges. This results in a 5% increase in flight departure punctuality and ground support efficiency. The system monitors operation in real time, deploys service resources in advance, proactively handle disruptions, strengthens security management, and improves passenger experience, helping airports go digital and intelligent.
    Huawei’s Smart Airport Perimeter Security Solution with fiber sensing technology elevates airport operational security. Using innovative technologies like Huawei’s distributed optic fiber sensing and AI sensing algorithms, the solution can precisely identify airfield intrusions under harsh weather conditions. It detects the vast majority of intrusions and generates very few false alarms (hundreds of alarms per day reduced to less than 1 alarm/km/day).
    Huawei’s Digital and Intelligent Platform for Airports based on cloud, data, and AI makes airport operations smarter, more efficient, and more secure.
    ● Cloud: Core services are migrated to the cloud for active-active deployment, ensuring zero data losses. The recovery time is shortened from 1 hour to just 5 minutes, meeting the 99.99% availability requirement.
    ● Data: The platform builds a comprehensive data governance system alongside a robust data foundation to deliver high-quality data for intelligent applications.
    ● AI: Huawei provides advanced AI capabilities and supports open and compatible mainstream models and engines. Together with its partners, the company looks to create optimal industry models to accelerate aviation intelligence.

    Huawei’s Xinghe Intelligent Airport Integrated Data Network Solution builds a high-quality and highly reliable communication network. Wi-Fi 7 enhances the passenger experience, and with its VIP assurance technology, Wi-Fi 7 improves the bandwidth for VIP passengers by 20%. Huawei’s exclusive Wi-Fi Shield adopts noise superposition to prevent data from being stolen during air interface transmission and protect data. It also automates access authentication and authorization, and can automatically detect and block spoofing and unauthorized access behavior within 30 seconds, eliminating terminal access risks. The solution fully boosts production and operational efficiency and ensures airport networks are stable.
    Huawei’s Smart Airport All-Optical Network utilizes IP + POL (Passive Optical LAN). It introduces the first 10G M45 panel-type Optical Network Unit (ONU) – the OptiXstar P892M – for airports, which supports multiple installation modes such as tabletop, wall embedding, and floor cylinder. One optical fiber allows for integrated access of voice, Wi-Fi, and HD video services, providing more reliable, agile, and green infrastructure to high-quality carry multiple airport service systems.
    The solutions reflect that ICT has evolved from a side support system into one of air cargo’s core mission-critical production systems, with intelligence being at the heart of the ongoing transformation of the aviation sector. This evolution is prompting airports to rethink how they allocate resources and evolve toward smart airports. Huawei works with aviation partners to deeply integrate novel technologies and create the architecture of intelligent digital twins that synergizes connectivity, cloud, AI, computing, and applications. This architecture aims to significantly enhance operational efficiency, business value, safety and passenger experience.
    Dr. Rachad Nassar, Director of Global Business & Strategic Partners of Huawei’s Smart Transportation BU, noted at the launch event that the advancement of aviation relies on digital and intelligent technologies. He stated that Huawei is committed to building safer and more efficient airports providing a seamless experience. “Moving forward, we will collaborate with more industry partners who have best practices to establish a new ecosystem for airport innovation and development. Together, we can help customers streamline existing industry systems, maximize data potential, and improve productivity within the aviation sector.”
    Keynote speech by Dr. Rachad Nassar

    During the exhibition, Huawei also showcased its range of scenario-based solutions for airport operations, security, and services alongside airlines’ operating scenarios. The solutions ensure smooth passenger and flight flows, improve travel experience, and increase the operational efficiency of both airports and airlines.
    To date, more than 210 airports, airlines, and air traffic management authorities all over the world have chosen Huawei. Looking ahead, Huawei will work with industry customers and partners to build a digital and intelligent foundation for civil aviation, develop smart airports that are safe, green, and passenger-friendly, and accelerate the intelligent development of aviation.
    For more information about Huawei’s Smart Aviation Solution, visit: https://e.huawei.com/en/industries/aviation

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Over 100 infringements issued in four-day road policing operation

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Attribute to Senior Sergeant Andy Reid, Manawatū Road Policing Services Team Leader:

    Road Policing staff from Manawatū and the Commercial Vehicle Safety Team conducted a four-day operation last week, targeting driver behaviour and Heavy Motor Vehicle compliance across the upper Rangitikei and greater Ruapehu areas.

    The operation ran over four days, from Wednesday 9 April to Saturday 12 April, with the focus on safety of road users across the region.

    Across the four days, 20 checkpoints were conducted, and 7755 drivers were breath tested. 

    Three people blew over the legal breath alcohol limit. Two of those drivers received a $200 fine, forbidden to drive for 12 hours and had 50 demerit points added to their licence for two years. The third driver will appear before the court.

    Nearly 130 infringement notices were issued during the operation, with 62 for speed, 8 for not wearing seatbelts and 2 drivers were on their cell phones. More than 50 notices were issued for other vehicle related offences.

    Of the 61 heavy motor vehicles inspected, two were ordered off the road and issued with stickers, and one was not up to certificate of fitness standards.

    While most drivers are doing the right thing, we are still disappointed that we’re continuing to see people putting themselves and other road users at risk.

    Our aim is to prevent tragic incidents on our roads, and we make no apology for targeting dangerous driving behaviour including restraints, impairment, distractions, and speed.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

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

    Source: New Zealand Government

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Notes for Editors

    Tourism’s key numbers

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

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

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

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Ecological restoration brings economic return

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Photovoltaic panels are installed on a reclaimed area of Changxu coal mine in Narisong, Inner Mongolia autonomous region, in August, 2024. [Photo/China Daily]
    While renewable energy is playing an increasingly important role in China’s green energy transition, coal mining still exists in some areas. In these areas, the government and local industry are taking steps to reduce the environmental impact, improve sustainable development and increase economic gains for local people.
    In the coal-mining town of Narisong in the Inner Mongolia autonomous region, locals say that not only is the air quality improving, but their wallets are getting fatter, too.
    The town of around 30,000 people has undergone five years of green reforms, which have seen its ecological landscape improve and economic growth increase.
    In Narisong’s 19 villages and two communities, collectives earned 14.4 million yuan ($2 million) in dividends last year alone, according to Hou Xianming, a member of the town’s Party committee and chairman of the town’s people’s congress.
    These dual gains stem from people-centered planning by the local government that started back in 2020. Back then, villages relying solely on mining struggled with unsustainable growth, while those without coal resources lagged behind. To holistically address ecological rehabilitation, sustainable industry development and income disparity, the government brought about the establishment of Juhe Industrial Co, Hou said.
    The Juhe enterprise would carry out work associated with mitigating the environmental impact of mining, funded by villages and communities, according to government regulations.
    The company also operates across sectors such as mine rehabilitation, environmental cleanup, equipment and land leasing, and waste management, said Hou.
    Su Haixia, an official in the Ordos bureau of natural resources, said that mining companies must allocate funds for ecological restoration to local stakeholders. “Taking the green mine construction project as an example, coal companies must establish restoration funds and deposit about 90 million yuan per 10 million tons mined,” Su said.
    Subject to government evaluations on ecological restoration, coal mining companies could handle the restoration work themselves, or outsource such projects to specialized contractors like Juhe Industrial Co. With professional teams and flexible local hiring, these collaborations have facilitated the reclamation of almost 10,000 hectares of land in the town, according to Hou.
    To date, Narisong has established 14 green mines — those that implement eco-friendly practices and technologies to reduce their environmental impact, with additional sites currently under evaluation, Hou said.
    Juhe Industrial Co has also created 198 stable jobs for local people in property services alone, boosting the average annual income by nearly 40,000 yuan for those people, according to Hou.
    “I was previously working in long-haul transportation far from home, but now I’ve been able to secure a job in my hometown, earning over 5,000 yuan a month with social security benefits — an opportunity I wholeheartedly cherish,” said Liu Meijun, a truck driver from Yangshita village in Narisong.
    Senior residents have also benefited. “Some villagers in their early 60s remain physically robust and mentally sharp and still seek employment, but urban companies reject them mainly based on age concerns,” said Hou. “However, we’ve chosen to hire them for suitable light work — enabling them to care for elderly parents at home while earning an income, a win-win for families and the community.”
    Last year, Juhe Industrial Co generated 200 million yuan in revenue with a net profit of 36 million yuan. A total of 10 percent of those profits go toward emergency assistance for residents affected by natural disasters or severe medical hardships, 40 percent go to village collective dividends and 50 percent for the company’s future development, according to Hou.
    On the land that has been revitalized and recovered, solar farms are being set up, as well as medicinal herb cultivation.
    A 1.95-billion-yuan 400-megawatt solar project has been established by Man Shi Group and Hanxia New Energy in Narisong. Occupying 652 hectares, the project leases 521 hectares from Wutumen village and 130 hectares from Wutugou village at 3,000 yuan per hectare, offering annual incomes of 1.56 million yuan and 390,600 yuan, respectively, for these communities.
    These new industries have generated around 500 local employment opportunities, according to Hou.
    “I work in the reclaimed area of Changxu coal mine, mainly maintaining and inspecting solar panels. After deductions for social security, I earn over 4,000 yuan a month. I also earn steady rental income from leasing my land to the companies — life keeps getting better and better,” said Nie Jianjun, a villager from Wutumen village in Narisong.
    Guided by government initiatives, villagers are enjoying diversified income streams ranging from collective equity dividends and wages to land rental money. Moreover, companies purchase saplings cultivated by locals for their land restoration efforts, with the profits from these sales further bolstering the community’s financial well-being, Hou added.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: 21 killed in Russian ballistic missile attack on Ukraine’s Sumy

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    At least 21 people were killed on Sunday morning in a Russian ballistic missile attack on the northeastern Ukrainian city of Sumy, Ukraine’s Prosecutor General’s Office said in a statement.

    The attack also left other 34 people injured, including five children, the statement added.

    The Sumy Regional Military Administration said that two ballistic missiles launched by Russian forces struck the city center, damaging residential and non-residential buildings.

    Rescue operations were still underway as of midday local time (0900 GMT).

    Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged the international community to deliver a “firm” response to the attack.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s unicorn firms gaining ground on international stage

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

    China continues to rise as a key player in the global innovation ecosystem, ranking second globally in the number of unicorn companies and accounting for nearly 30 percent of the world’s total, said a newly released report.

    According to a unicorn enterprise development report released at the Zhongguancun Forum in March, China’s unicorn companies are gaining global prominence, with a total of 409 unicorns valued at approximately $1.5 trillion.

    Unicorns, generally defined as privately held companies that are less than 10 years old and valued at over $1 billion, are considered to have unique core technologies, competitive advantages and significant market potential.

    Xie Shaofeng, chief engineer of the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, said: “The rapid rise of China’s unicorns in recent years can be attributed to the dominance of intelligent technologies. Nearly a third of the country’s unicorns hail from smart technology fields, including large models and autonomous driving, which have fueled the growth of sub-sectors such as smart healthcare, logistics and manufacturing.”

    The report said that China’s unicorns span 12 sectors, with significant representation in integrated circuits and semiconductors, software and information services, new energy technologies, AI, intelligent manufacturing and new consumption.

    Among these, AI leads in terms of total valuation, with Chinese unicorns in the AI sector collectively valued at $461.2 billion. The new consumption and retail sector follows closely at $203.9 billion, while integrated circuits round out the top three with a valuation of $192.5 billion.

    On average, the unicorns in AI, e-commerce and new energy smart vehicles have the highest valuations, with averages of $7.56 billion, $6.19 billion and $5.43 billion, respectively. The report also highlighted the emergence of “super unicorns” — companies valued at over $10 billion. Currently, there are 18 such companies in China.

    In terms of quantity, the new consumption and retail sector leads with 66 unicorns, followed by AI (61), integrated circuits (54), intelligent equipment (54) and pharmaceutical health (43). Together, these five sectors account for 68 percent of all Chinese unicorns.

    One such unicorn is Uisee, a leader in autonomous driving. Wu Gansha, co-founder and chairman of the company, highlighted the need for differentiation, either by focusing on niche markets that larger companies overlook or by optimizing technologies to offer affordable, high-quality products.

    “Unicorns generally follow one of the two paths,” Wu explained. “Either they carve out a unique position in a neglected niche, becoming the first or the only in that field based on their core capabilities, or they bring down costs dramatically through innovative technologies and engineering. The key is to scale that advantage, turning a unicorn into a super unicorn.”

    Looking ahead, Wu said that globalization is essential for China’s unicorns to thrive. “High labor costs and markets with rigid demand are ideal environments to maximize technological value,” he said.

    For Chinese companies to succeed on the global stage, they must ensure that their products meet international standards, enabling them to quickly respond to global competition and “go global” with minimal lag time, industry experts added.

    As China’s unicorns continue to expand their reach, their influence on global markets is expected to grow, further reshaping the landscape of innovation and technology across multiple industries. With government support and a growing ecosystem of talent and capital, the future looks promising for China’s fast-rising tech giants.

    However, Li Daokui, director of Tsinghua University’s Academic Center for Chinese Economic Practice and Thinking, said that those firms on the verge of becoming unicorns face significant funding shortages.

    Few unicorns are able to rely entirely on profits to sustain their growth, and many require patient capital to support their long-term development, he said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Green MP must explain fundraising for extremist group

    Source: ACT Party

    ACT Justice spokesperson Todd Stephenson is calling on Green MP Tamatha Paul to clarify her party’s stance on crime and explain her decision to fundraise for the extremist group People Against Prisons Aotearoa (PAPA).

    “This is a group that openly calls for the abolition of prisons and the police,” says Mr Stephenson.

    “New Zealanders – and especially Ms Paul’s constituents – deserve to know whether this reflects her views and those of the Green Party. If it doesn’t, she needs to explain why she chose to support them by nominating them to receive proceeds from the sale of merchandise featuring her image.

    “The question that needs to be answered is what ought to happen to murders, rapists and terrorists if prisons and the police force no longer exist?

    “Ms Paul can’t have it both ways. She’s previously claimed not to support police abolition after being challenged by ACT, yet she continues to promote and raise money for an organisation that exists solely to push that very agenda. If she disagrees with PAPA’s goals, why is she using her public platform to amplify and fundraise for them?

    “Paul has also stated she’s received ‘nothing but complaints’ about police beat patrols in Wellington. If that’s true, either she’s not talking to normal people, or her constituents have concluded she’s living in La La Land and see no point in engaging with someone so disconnected from reality.

    “This group isn’t about reducing crime, it’s about facilitating a descent into anarchy and chaos. Supporting them means supporting an extremist vision for New Zealand’s justice system, where victims are forgotten and dangerous offenders are allowed to walk free.”

    Some of People Against Prisons Aotearoa’s policy positions include:

    • Abolishing the New Zealand Police
    • Abolishing prisons entirely
    • Ending reincarceration for breaches of parole, probation, or bail
    • Banning incarceration of transgender offenders
    • Decriminalising benefit fraud
    • Progressively defunding the Department of Corrections
    • Repealing three strikes for the worst repeat violent and sexual offenders
    • Blocking any public sex offender register

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Cones must stay while asphalt cures

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    As work progresses on a hi-tech weigh station at Taupō, traffic will continue to be managed through works on the surrounding state highways and local roads.

    Five sites leading to the Commercial Vehicle Safety Centre are having in-road weighing technology installed and these will be coned off for 30 days from late April/early May to cure the asphalt before the technology is installed advises NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA)

    “So while it may look like nothing is happening beyond the cones, it is essential to give the asphalt time to cure and be ready for installing the weigh-in-motion scales,” says Regional Manager for Infrastructure Delivery, Darryl Coalter.

    “The asphalt layer at each site needs time to harden and gain strength. The new layer needs to be undisturbed for 30 days so that it hardens sufficiently for contractors to make precise cuts into it to fit the weigh-in-motion weigh plates.

    “We can’t remove the traffic management and run traffic over it because it has been laid at precise levels so the scales work properly when they are installed. We want to avoid the risk of the soft asphalt crumbling.”

    The scales are being installed on 5 of the roads heading towards the safety centre:

    • SH1 north of the SH1/5 roundabout
    • SH1 south of the roundabout
    • SH5 east of the roundabout
    • Napier Road west of the roundabout
    • Nearby Crown Road.

    Temporary lanes have been built on the road shoulders to allow traffic to pass around the work areas and minimise the use of stop/go or temporary detours.  Speed restrictions are in place and only minor delays are expected.

    The curing period will run from the end of April to the end of May.

    The Taupō weight station is 1 of 12 facilities NZTA is building on high-volume freight routes around the country for NZ Police to operate. The safety centres are part of the national Commercial Vehicle Safety Programme.

    This technology will screen passing traffic and direct any suspected non-compliant heavy vehicles into the safety centre. Police officers on site will check vehicle weights, road user charges, certificates of fitness, logbooks and driver impairment.

    Read more about the Commercial Vehicle Safety Centres:

    The Commercial Vehicle Safety Programme (CVSP)

     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: 2023 Australian CRS reportable accounts by jurisdiction

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    Limitations of the CRS report

    The Total accounts column represents the number of Financial Accounts held by foreign tax residents; it does not represent the number of foreign tax residents holding accounts. An account holder may be a tax resident of multiple jurisdictions, so accounts may be reported more than once.

    The Balance ($A) column represents the total balance or value of the Financial Assets held in the accounts. The figure includes:

    • cash
    • securities
    • bonds
    • commodities
    • partnership interests
    • debt interests and equity interests.

    Where an account is held by more than one account holder, the balance or value is attributed in full to each account holder. Where an account is held by a passive non-financial entity, such as a trust, the value of the equity interest is attributed in full to each controlling person. These accounts will be reported in the Total accounts and Balance ($A) columns more than once.

    Table: CRS statistics tabled by the Minister

    Jurisdiction

    Total Accounts

    Balance (AUD)

    Afghanistan

    11070

    $95,581,415

    Aland Islands

    693

    $3,871,473

    Albania

    728

    $10,764,088

    Algeria

    515

    $10,363,535

    American Samoa

    555

    $7,413,499

    Andorra

    1355

    $101,244,778

    Angola

    296

    $10,861,848

    Anguilla

    166

    $1,170,312

    Antigua and Barbuda

    234

    $3,613,577

    Argentina

    43207

    $239,451,920

    Armenia

    725

    $5,711,104

    Aruba

    510

    $18,999,978

    Austria

    16740

    $394,878,370

    Azerbaijan

    893

    $29,236,263

    Bahamas

    1044

    $232,452,443

    Bahrain

    1944

    $70,119,634

    Bangladesh

    29473

    $229,111,457

    Barbados

    378

    $15,992,240

    Belarus

    564

    $6,673,642

    Belgium

    11622

    $328,051,334

    Belize

    141

    $1,882,633

    Benin

    147

    $4,016,713

    Bermuda

    802

    $1,003,121,189

    Bhutan

    33564

    $129,472,928

    Bolivia (Plurinational State of)

    644

    $4,267,066

    Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba

    65

    $320,289

    Bosnia and Herzegovina

    1015

    $18,562,691

    Botswana

    1551

    $74,047,155

    Brazil

    115912

    $665,938,179

    Brunei Darussalam

    4830

    $175,136,606

    Bulgaria

    1168

    $30,359,474

    Burkina Faso

    209

    $6,083,998

    Burundi

    359

    $1,251,294

    Cabo Verde

    57

    $801,533

    Cambodia

    13543

    $310,460,409

    Cameroon

    286

    $12,837,192

    Canada

    131945

    $4,655,911,312

    Cayman Islands

    1261

    $2,287,140,562

    Central African Republic (The)

    65

    $1,886,237

    Chad

    47

    $1,931,612

    Chile

    34790

    $184,569,286

    China

    1168312

    $35,846,564,031

    Colombia

    117549

    $329,328,309

    Comoros

    202

    $1,192,041

    Congo (Democratic Republic of The)

    955

    $15,603,703

    Congo (The)

    592

    $5,826,658

    Cook Islands

    966

    $15,755,625

    Costa Rica

    737

    $9,190,245

    Cote d’Ivoire

    154

    $12,847,535

    Croatia

    2570

    $91,851,975

    Cuba

    270

    $3,587,708

    Curacao

    63

    $489,577

    Cyprus

    2728

    $174,738,630

    Czech Republic

    5737

    $138,163,643

    Denmark

    13370

    $711,421,080

    Djibouti

    56

    $94,469

    Dominica

    118

    $20,557,976

    Dominican Republic

    6717

    $219,006,335

    Ecuador

    4375

    $24,093,968

    Egypt

    7828

    $130,461,587

    El Salvador

    549

    $4,583,826

    Equatorial Guinea

    43

    $5,787,039

    Eritrea

    574

    $3,235,597

    Estonia

    5283

    $19,768,874

    Ethiopia

    2203

    $22,578,132

    Falkland Islands [Malvinas]

    100

    $662,808

    Faroe Islands (The)

    45

    $320,055

    Fiji

    33661

    $418,588,501

    Finland

    7518

    $243,196,353

    France

    88770

    $1,312,556,582

    French Guiana

    63

    $1,169,649

    French Polynesia

    1466

    $144,692,251

    Gabon

    95

    $254,579

    Gambia

    98

    $1,040,902

    Georgia

    519

    $14,078,846

    Germany

    97566

    $2,136,961,996

    Ghana

    3662

    $45,920,708

    Gibraltar

    271

    $98,559,288

    Greece

    18433

    $874,732,119

    Greenland

    34

    $1,090,263

    Grenada

    45

    $860,469

    Guadeloupe

    59

    $1,397,246

    Guam

    567

    $22,049,141

    Guatemala

    609

    $4,477,478

    Guernsey

    709

    $188,289,280

    Guinea

    467

    $16,333,658

    Guinea-Bissau

    22

    $52,235

    Guyana

    145

    $5,865,208

    Haiti

    79

    $3,315,500

    Holy See (The)

    31

    $223,543

    Honduras

    284

    $3,912,750

    Hong Kong

    417259

    $19,652,979,316

    Hungary

    4166

    $89,013,732

    Iceland

    706

    $9,559,465

    India

    541071

    $3,337,392,017

    Indonesia

    141551

    $2,447,310,574

    Iran (Islamic Republic of)

    25484

    $220,602,656

    Iraq

    5657

    $47,263,403

    Ireland

    99386

    $1,184,004,246

    Isle of man

    755

    $77,412,757

    Israel

    14404

    $870,500,826

    Italy

    61111

    $1,042,858,008

    Jamaica

    502

    $10,346,693

    Japan

    122031

    $2,930,986,700

    Jersey

    1191

    $1,500,635,721

    Jordan

    3192

    $51,114,032

    Kazakhstan

    2762

    $76,557,742

    Kenya

    19121

    $167,004,133

    Kiribati

    1728

    $27,628,158

    Korea (The Democratic People’s Republic of)

    1300

    $11,985,623

    Korea (The Republic of)

    120329

    $692,796,653

    Kuwait

    2278

    $59,151,943

    Kyrgyzstan

    253

    $10,798,328

    Lao Peoples Democratic Republic

    3950

    $56,663,831

    Latvia

    662

    $19,990,384

    Lebanon

    4658

    $77,228,058

    Lesotho

    76

    $1,552,742

    Liberia

    331

    $7,577,445

    Libya

    321

    $5,848,095

    Liechtenstein

    115

    $2,373,413

    Lithuania

    1572

    $17,114,640

    Luxembourg

    1269

    $1,281,207,061

    Macao

    8485

    $557,432,905

    Madagascar

    302

    $4,468,823

    Malawi

    602

    $7,546,068

    Malaysia

    207495

    $9,736,791,971

    Maldives

    1145

    $9,633,668

    Mali

    204

    $6,447,711

    Malta

    3940

    $266,412,830

    Marshall Islands (The)

    142

    $267,119,933

    Martinique

    54

    $348,133

    Mauritania

    107

    $2,254,652

    Mauritius

    7436

    $190,515,176

    Mayotte

    43

    $89,402

    Mexico

    12583

    $107,075,070

    Micronesia (Federated States of)

    147

    $15,869,862

    Moldova (The Republic of)

    251

    $2,923,446

    Monaco

    655

    $148,818,123

    Mongolia

    18288

    $90,339,348

    Montenegro

    244

    $25,032,609

    Montserrat

    5287

    $264,020,964

    Morocco

    919

    $34,620,243

    Mozambique

    551

    $16,987,061

    Myanmar

    10713

    $94,691,582

    Namibia

    852

    $28,134,752

    Nauru

    1258

    $71,353,711

    Nepal

    151948

    $530,415,177

    Netherlands (The)

    38960

    $5,741,717,769

    New Caledonia

    14843

    $946,289,722

    New Zealand

    593810

    $13,924,735,966

    Nicaragua

    212

    $1,863,857

    Niger (The)

    118

    $4,131,203

    Nigeria

    8518

    $59,998,862

    Niue

    63

    $457,441

    Northern Mariana Islands (The)

    86

    $1,940,793

    Norway

    12085

    $116,151,200

    Oman

    2919

    $53,732,678

    Pakistan

    40606

    $233,873,735

    Palau

    90

    $2,489,305

    Palestine, State of

    490

    $4,307,127

    Panama

    817

    $22,319,621

    Papua New Guinea

    20645

    $1,000,357,988

    Paraguay

    611

    $4,606,315

    Peru

    8102

    $93,464,956

    Philippines

    149788

    $1,081,032,048

    Pitcairn

    42

    $2,255,280

    Poland

    10216

    $183,398,727

    Portugal

    8340

    $364,367,730

    Puerto Rico

    111

    $1,240,149

    Qatar

    5561

    $199,292,806

    Republic of North Macedonia

    2098

    $48,970,081

    Reunion

    198

    $5,016,186

    Romania

    2257

    $33,817,593

    Russian Federation

    13479

    $311,237,493

    Rwanda

    349

    $2,900,073

    Saint Barthelemy

    43

    $132,991

    Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha

    19

    $53,689

    Saint Kitts and Nevis

    164

    $65,704,365

    Saint Lucia

    99

    $11,339,027

    Saint Martin (French part)

    24

    $1,272,193

    Saint Vincent and The Grenadines

    54

    $648,955

    Samoa

    5642

    $12,252,804

    San Marino

    22

    $225,736

    Sao Tome and Principe

    16

    $47,212

    Saudi Arabia

    17461

    $290,408,054

    Senegal

    246

    $17,019,253

    Serbia

    2765

    $61,671,117

    Seychelles

    747

    $66,081,694

    Sierra Leone

    518

    $59,985,702

    Singapore

    216492

    $16,932,866,043

    Sint Maarten (Dutch)

    44

    $2,030,457

    Slovakia

    2683

    $34,211,553

    Slovenia

    1143

    $31,256,112

    Solomon Islands

    5670

    $107,624,274

    Somalia

    419

    $883,615

    South Africa

    85705

    $3,036,112,507

    South Sudan

    409

    $1,439,169

    Spain

    34964

    $615,458,859

    Sri Lanka

    59417

    $496,470,828

    Sudan

    1369

    $9,428,890

    Suriname

    99

    $808,495

    Swaziland

    491

    $11,837,248

    Sweden

    24838

    $395,550,321

    Switzerland

    27602

    $2,522,289,323

    Syrian Arab Republic

    3146

    $16,259,175

    Taiwan (Province of China)

    215091

    $5,182,123,415

    Tajikistan

    150

    $6,070,527

    Tanzania, United Republic of

    1483

    $28,785,672

    Thailand

    115526

    $1,671,533,990

    Timor-Leste

    5625

    $103,220,105

    Togo

    50

    $392,068

    Tokelau

    34

    $94,511

    Tonga

    10335

    $27,905,071

    Trinidad and Tobago

    429

    $10,964,301

    Tunisia

    505

    $42,954,529

    Turkey

    12815

    $123,250,809

    Turkmenistan

    80

    $269,557

    Turks and Caicos Islands (The)

    62

    $12,992,454

    Tuvalu

    332

    $24,161,951

    Uganda

    1469

    $26,010,162

    Ukraine

    6358

    $57,835,515

    United Arab Emirates

    34016

    $1,525,677,609

    United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (The)

    650226

    $15,897,900,722

    United States Minor Outlying Islands (The)

    616

    $17,009,421

    United States of America (The)

    607512

    $32,140,613,865

    Uruguay

    2967

    $20,416,335

    Uzbekistan

    843

    $14,924,835

    Vanuatu

    12745

    $166,367,754

    Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of)

    3429

    $16,703,255

    Vietnam

    108399

    $1,368,106,502

    Virgin Islands (British)

    664

    $1,583,993,488

    Virgin Islands (U.S.)

    86

    $12,262,261

    Wallis and Futuna

    79

    $735,705

    Western Sahara

    54

    $172,955

    Yemen

    436

    $3,698,663

    Zambia

    2508

    $52,915,353

    Zimbabwe

    8557

    $181,025,534

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: The Family Court could better protect Indigenous women and children, but there are barriers in the way

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Heather Douglas, Professor of Law and Deputy Director of the Centre of Excellence for the Elimination of Violence Against Women (CEVAW), The University of Melbourne

    Shutterstock

    The family law system is crucial for protecting women and children nationwide. With its combination of judicial oversight, counselling and alternative dispute resolution, the family court can offer meaningful support to parents in complex situations. But First Nations families may be missing out.

    We partnered with Women’s Legal Services Australia to prepare a new review. The review highlights that First Nations women may face barriers to accessing the family law system, especially when they have experienced family violence.

    Our research

    Family law courts in Australia handle matters such as where children live and who has contact with them. They also deal with finance and property disputes within families, and family violence.

    In our research, we reviewed the existing literature and family court cases to see how First Nations people have interacted with the family law system.

    While 7% of family court final order applications in 2023–2024 included a First Nations litigant, we suggest the family law system may be underutilised by Indigenous women. There are several factors that point to this.

    One is the rate of out-of-home care. First Nations children make up 44.5% of children in out-of-home care nationally. Engaging with the family law system may reduce these rates.

    Another is the prevalence of Indigenous families with a single parent. Nearly 45% of First Nations children under 15-years-old live in single-parent households.

    People in these households may need to negotiate safe contact arrangements for their children with other family members. The family law system can play an important role for these families.

    And we know family violence is present in 83% of parenting proceedings in the family courts. First Nations women are at a higher risk of family violence than non-First Nations women, often perpetrated by a non-First Nations partner. The family law system must take account of family violence when making orders.

    It therefore may be reasonable to expect a higher proportion of First Nations people to use the family law system. So what’s stopping them?

    Prior bad experiences

    Previous studies have focused on First Nations women’s experiences of child protection, criminal law and family violence protections orders.

    First Nations women may fear the family law system because of negative experiences with these other processes, including genuine fears about child removal.

    Research shows parts of the legal system often fail First Nations women who have experienced family violence.

    The family law system relies on people making their own application to enter the system. Prior bad experiences of other legal systems are likely to affect people’s willingness to use family law.

    Family law is different from other parts of the legal system. In criminal law and family violence protection orders, for instance, the state brings First Nations people into the legal system. This happens through police charging people, or police applying for family violence protection orders on behalf of a victim-survivor.

    We know in some civil law processes where the person must make the application, like debt recovery, First Nations people are less likely than non-First Nations people to report or make an application.

    Structural issues

    Child protection matters often overlap with family law matters. The law has changed to require child protection authorities to share information when the family courts request it.

    Agencies that support First Nations women are also required to report particular concerns to child protection authorities. These factors may contribute to First Nations women being reluctant to apply to the family law system for fear their children will be removed.

    In some research, interview participants referred to an “erosion of trust and disengagement of victims” from services as a result of mandatory reporting.

    Systemic racism, biases and discrimination identified in other legal systems may also affect First Nations women’s experiences in family law. This may lead them to disengage, or not engage the next time they have concerns about their children’s safety.

    When First Nations women who have experienced family violence do engage with the family law system, this is sometimes because their non-First Nations partner makes an application. When this happens, research suggests the family law system may give more weight to the non-First Nations party’s version of events.

    Improving the system

    The family law system is making efforts to improve access for First Nations people.

    There is now a requirement for family courts to consider how parenting arrangements will help Aboriginal children to remain in contact with culture, community, family, language and Country.

    Indigenous Family Liaison Officers are employed by family courts to support First Nations people in court.

    Indigenous Lists also exist in specific courts where cases involving First Nations parties are heard on a particular day and specialised support is available.

    We need to find out more about how effective these measures are and what else needs to change so the family law system can best support First Nations women.

    We also need to know more about how to support First Nations women in the family courts when the other party is a non-First Nations person. For most couples across Australia that include an Indigenous person, the other person is non-First Nations.

    The family law system holds real potential to be a proactive and protective pathway for more First Nations women concerned about their own safety and their children’s safety. Our continuing research hopes to show how this potential may be realised.

    13YARN is a free and confidential 24/7 national crisis support line for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who are feeling overwhelmed or having difficulty coping. Call 13 92 76.

    Heather Douglas receives funding from the Australian Research Council.

    Kyllie Cripps receives funding from the Australian Research Council for a number of projects she is involved with.

    Samantha O’Donnell receives funding from the Australian Research Council. Samantha O’Donnell also volunteers for the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre.

    – ref. The Family Court could better protect Indigenous women and children, but there are barriers in the way – https://theconversation.com/the-family-court-could-better-protect-indigenous-women-and-children-but-there-are-barriers-in-the-way-253619

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Curious Kids: If you scoop a bucket of water out of the ocean, does it get lower?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Dylan Irvine, Outstanding Future Researcher – Northern Water Futures, Charles Darwin University

    Lizzie Lamont/Shutterstock

    If you scoop a bucket of water out of the ocean, does it get lower?

    –Ellis, 6 and a half, Hobart

    This is a great question Ellis! The short answer is yes, but the change in water level will be extremely tiny. You can actually test this idea at home.

    For starters, you’ll need a glass of water and a teaspoon. Fill the glass almost to the top, and take note of the water level. Now, carefully remove a teaspoon of water. Can you see the difference in the water level? Maybe you can, but maybe not.

    You could repeat this experiment in the kitchen sink, or a bathtub if you have one. The key point is that the water level does drop, but only by a very small amount. If you scoop a teaspoon of water out of the bathtub, you probably won’t see the difference with the naked eye.

    Millions of buckets

    So, let’s return to the ocean. It’s truly huge, especially compared to a bucket.

    Let’s say that you have a bucket that fits ten litres. Using the information here, there are about 137 million, million, million buckets of water in the ocean (that is, all of Earth’s oceans combined).

    I crunched the numbers. If you took a bucket of water from the ocean, the water level would drop by around 0.0000000000277 millimetre. You can see how small a millimetre is on your school ruler. We don’t have anything on Earth that can measure anything this small. For example, this is way, way, way smaller than even a single atom.

    So, the more detailed answer to your question is: yes, the water level gets lower, but by such a small amount that we can’t even measure it.

    But wait, there’s more

    Earth is a really interesting place. When you take your bucket of water, all that water is moving through something called the water cycle.

    Sea levels are actually constantly changing. Each year, a lot of water evaporates from the ocean. Some of it is even lost to outer space.

    However, most of the evaporated water rains back down directly onto the ocean, or onto the ground, with that water making its way to rivers that eventually flow to the ocean. There is also a lot of water stored underground, and some of it makes its way to the ocean, as well.

    So, if you poured your bucket of water onto the ground, eventually it would end up back in the ocean via the water cycle!

    A few fun facts

    There’s a lot to know about water. Some more fun facts (and big numbers):

    1. There are 1,500,000,000,000,000,000 molecules of water (H₂O) in a single drop of water. That’s 1.5 million, million, million.

    2. The oldest water in the world is estimated to have fallen as rain more than 1.6 billion years ago.

    3. Most (about 98%) of the world’s fresh, liquid water is underground – that’s why it’s called groundwater.

    Dylan Irvine receives funding from the Australian Research Council, the Cooperative Research Centre program, the National Water Grid Authority and the Ian Potter Foundation. This article is independent of these funded research activities.

    – ref. Curious Kids: If you scoop a bucket of water out of the ocean, does it get lower? – https://theconversation.com/curious-kids-if-you-scoop-a-bucket-of-water-out-of-the-ocean-does-it-get-lower-233249

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: Fewer Chinese studying in US due to rising tensions

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    The number and proportion of Chinese students studying in the United States continue to decline as rising geopolitical tensions and safety concerns weigh heavily on families’ decisions, according to official reports and education experts.
    The 2024 Blue Paper for Chinese Overseas Students Returning to China for Employment, recently released by the Chinese Service Center for Scholarly Exchange under the Ministry of Education, shows that while the U.S. remains a key destination for Chinese students, its dominance is fading.
    In 2023, only 14.54 percent of Chinese returnees with doctoral degrees studied in the U.S., down from 25 percent in 2020 — a decline of more than 10 percentage points over four years, according to the blue paper.
    Among returnees from the top three study destinations — the United Kingdom, the U.S. and Australia — 51.5 percent had studied in those countries, marking a decrease of approximately 3 percentage points from the previous year, driven primarily by the drop in the number of U.S.-based graduates, it added.
    The decline comes as more Chinese families are rethinking their higher education plans in light of worsening bilateral relations and growing concerns over safety abroad.
    The Ministry of Education last week warned Chinese students to make security assessments if choosing to study in certain U.S. states, citing a bill passed in the U.S. state of Ohio that contains negative provisions related to China. It imposes restrictions on education exchanges and cooperation between Chinese and U.S. higher education institutions.
    “Geopolitical tensions inevitably affect the international flow of students,” said Chen Zhiwen, a member of the Chinese Society of Educational Development Strategy.
    “The U.S. has increasingly restricted China in areas such as trade, technology and talent, making the study environment more hostile. Over the past four years, the number of Chinese students in the U.S. has dropped by 100,000,” Chen said, urging Chinese parents to carefully evaluate study-abroad destinations.
    According to data from the 2024 Open Doors Report on International Educational Exchange, produced in part by the U.S. Department of State, China was surpassed by India as the largest source of international students in the U.S. for the 2023-24 academic year. There were 277,398 students from the Chinese mainland enrolled in U.S. higher education institutions during that period, a figure that has been dropping annually since peaking at 372,532 in the 2019-20 academic year.
    Chinese parents are increasingly factoring in national relations and domestic stability when considering where to send their children.
    Kendy Jia, the mother of a secondary school student in Beijing, said she had been planning to send her child abroad for high school just a few years ago.
    “Now, that plan is on hold,” she said at the 2025 China International Education Exhibition Tour in Beijing on Friday.
    “With the current international situation, we’re leaning toward waiting until after high school,” Jia said. “We might still consider sending him abroad for university, but not necessarily to the U.S. As parents, we first consider the country’s relationship with China, because political stability is very important and affects our child’s personal safety overseas,” she said, adding that worsening international relations might also add to the cost of overseas study.
    A survey by consultancy EIC Education released last month found that safety and financial support have become top concerns for prospective Chinese students during the 2024-25 academic year. The local security environment ranks fourth among factors influencing study-abroad decisions, it said.
    Hannah Song, secretary-general of the America-China Education Foundation Greater China, a U.S.-based nonprofit organization, said many Chinese parents have expressed concerns about whether bilateral relations might pose safety risks for students studying in the country.
    “Parents don’t need to be overly worried,” she said. “Most U.S. states and universities focused on educational exchange rather than politics. For the majority of American institutions, the impact is minimal,” she said.
    Despite current geopolitical tensions, Song said the U.S. remains a top choice for many Chinese families in terms of undergraduate education.
    According to the blue paper, the U.S. kept attracting Chinese students in certain academic fields. Economics and mathematics remain the top choices for undergraduates from 2022 to 2024, while computer science and finance dominate among graduate applicants in 2024.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: The highs and lows of working in public housing support

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    After meeting Louise, Senior Director Tenant Experience at Housing ACT, it’s clear to see that she’s someone who is genuinely committed to helping people.

    “What fundamentally keeps me with housing is because I’m a real people person. There are lots of opportunities to engage with and support really wonderful and fascinating members of our community who have unique and interesting stories of their own,” she says.

    We have a dedicated staffing group that works tirelessly seven days a week to make sure we can be responsive to our clients. “But just like with any industry, there can be not-so-positive interactions. Particularly given current cost of living pressures and the importance of having stable housing” Louise says.

    “When there’s financial hardships or homelessness, sometimes clients can take those frustrations out on our staff. So that’s really hard when people are turning up, day after day, to do a job and they’re being abused. The staff have done nothing to deserve those levels of anger or frustrations or threats,” she says.

    “We would love nothing more than to house everyone straight away and not have waitlists, but unfortunately there is a supply and demand issue. And that can be terribly frustrating when you’re talking to and listening to members of the community who really are in dire straits. There are so many things that can be a pressure point in not having housing, so we certainly understand that.”

    As a born and bred Canberran who grew up with a single mother living in public housing, Louise understands firsthand the pressures faced by her clients. So when it came time to find a job, she jumped at the chance to give back to the community and work with the ACT Government in Housing Assistance – and 26 years on, she’s still there.

    “I just fell in love with the different roles and the work that we do in housing that supports so many members of the public,” says Louise.

    From an entry-level position, Louise has worked her way up, taking on a range of different roles, and now leads a team responsible for looking after tenants.

    “You get exposed to really diverse members of the community, and it’s really rewarding to support these people at times when they need that little bit of extra assistance with housing support, or if there’s a crisis in their current situation and to be able help them stabilise it, so you can see them excel in their lives.”

    Working in tenant experience is similar to working in property management, including managing rent accounts, inspections and complaints. But Louise says the main difference is they bring a “social landlord lens” and work hard to support people to sustain their tenancies.

    “A large amount of the work we do is understanding our tenants, their needs and looking to help them with what they need,” she says.

    Louise believes social housing can get a bad rap in the media and greater community, and she’s passionate about changing that narrative.

    “Sometimes it’s frustrating to me that we can’t tell all the good stories, because of privacy laws,” she says. “But there are a lot of good things we do behind the scenes that aren’t publicly known. For example, during heat waves, we call up older tenants to make sure they’re alright. And that’s resulted in us identifying a medical emergency and getting them assistance.”

    Louise says that due to the occupational violence experienced, Housing ACT have a range of measures in place to support and protect staff, like regular communication and specialist training programs. They’ve also introduced duress devices for frontline staff, and have a range of follow-up supports in place for staff if an incident occurs.

    But Louise says it really is only a few people who become aggressive.

    “We don’t want to stop people raising concerns or telling us what they think. But it’s about doing it in a way that’s not aggressive or violent towards us. You can express your dissatisfaction, but use the mechanisms available to you, like lodge a complaint.”

    “By far, tenants are lovely. So it’s one of those things where a handful can really ruin it,” she says.

    And as for her career, if you want to work somewhere where you really know you’re making a difference, Louise says working in housing assistance is incredibly rewarding, with a good mix between field work and office work.

    “For people who don’t see themselves stuck behind the desk from nine to five and love client engagement, there’s that real mix, and we have that flexibility,” she says.

    “If you like working in a team with people, and have value-driven outcomes, this would be the job for you. Every single day, I go home thinking, ‘I’ve done something today that has helped someone’.”

    * For personal privacy, surnames of interviewees have been removed.

    Find out more about how you can help make ACT Government workplaces safe for everyone.

    Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:


    MIL OSI News –

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China, Vietnam should uphold traditional friendship, jointly tackle global challenges, says Chinese ambassador

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

    China, Vietnam should uphold traditional friendship, jointly tackle global challenges, says Chinese ambassador

    HANOI, April 13 — China and Vietnam should uphold their traditional friendship featuring “camaraderie plus brotherhood” and join hands to tackle global challenges, Chinese Ambassador to Vietnam He Wei has said.

    Such a bond is the most vivid reflection of the traditional friendship between the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV), and between the two countries, the ambassador told Xinhua in an interview ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s upcoming state visit to Vietnam from Monday to Tuesday.

    Standing at a new historical starting point, China and Vietnam should follow the important consensus reached by the top leaders of the two parties and countries, and strengthen the foundation of their bilateral relations with high-level political mutual trust, high-quality practical cooperation and in-depth people-to-people exchanges, so as to inject more positive energy into regional and global peace, stability and development, he said.

    The ambassador said the two countries’ traditional friendship has laid a solid foundation for their struggles for national independence and liberation, and has also injected strong momentum into consolidating and deepening their comprehensive strategic cooperation, assuring the stability for both countries in responding to a complex and volatile international landscape.

    He noted that the top leaders of the two parties have in recent years maintained frequent interactions, charting the course for China-Vietnam relations. This has played a strategic role in advancing the relations between the two parties and the two countries, he added.

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

    To Lam, general secretary of the CPV Central Committee, visited China in his first overseas trip after taking office, further strengthening bilateral ties.

    The Chinese ambassador noted that China and Vietnam, as partners treading the path of reform and modernization, view each other’s development as a significant opportunity.

    With both countries jointly embarking on the new journey to build a China-Vietnam community with a shared future that carries strategic significance, their practical cooperation has also entered a fast track focusing on quality improvement and upgrading, He said.

    He pointed out that China was Vietnam’s largest trading partner for over 20 consecutive years, and for years Vietnam has been China’s largest trading partner within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

    Take agricultural products. The ambassador said that high-quality Vietnamese products such as coffee and fresh coconuts are highly popular among Chinese consumers, and over 90 percent of Vietnam’s durian exports go to China.

    Last year, China led in the number of newly registered investment projects in Vietnam, He said, noting that the Chinese-built Cat Linh-Ha Dong Line, Vietnam’s first urban light rail line, has provided convenience for local commuters, and the Chinese-invested Soc Son waste-to-energy plant processes 60 percent of Hanoi’s daily household waste.

    Emphasizing the people-to-people bond and strong cultural links between the two countries, He said leaders of the two parties agreed on making this year the China-Vietnam Year of People-to-People Exchanges to mark the 75th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic relations, reflecting their deep commitment and high expectations for reinforcing the foundation of public support in both countries.

    Through a series of activities, the bond between the two peoples will become even closer, and the public support for bilateral relations will become increasingly robust, said the ambassador.

    As the world is undergoing accelerated changes unseen in a century and is entering a new period of turbulence, the United States, in particular, has recently dealt a heavy blow to global and regional economic order by weaponizing tariffs to exert maximum pressure, He said.

    In the face of these challenges, the ambassador said China and Vietnam should deepen their comprehensive strategic cooperation and inject more certainty and stability into the region. This is not only an essential aspect of building a China-Vietnam community with a shared future that carries strategic significance but also a necessary step to promote regional cooperation and development, He said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China, Vietnam to consolidate trade ties

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

    The economic and trade ties between China and Vietnam are expected to rise to a new level, driven by the two countries’ highly complementary trade structures, Vietnam’s modernization drive and the growing influence of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, according to market watchers and exporters.

    Amid rising protectionism and unilateral challenges, China and Vietnam are pressing ahead with industrial upgrading and digital transformation, positioning themselves to tap into new growth opportunities across key sectors such as advanced manufacturing, green energy, smart logistics, e-commerce and regional supply chain integration, they said.

    United by common aspirations for sustainable growth and economic resilience, the two countries are on track to forge even deeper and more dynamic economic ties in the years to come, said Wan Zhe, a professor specializing in regional economic development at Beijing Normal University.

    Bilateral business relations have witnessed remarkable progress, especially in recent years, with Vietnam introducing key national strategies such as the National Green Growth Strategy for 2021-2030, vision towards 2050; the National Strategy on R&D and Application of Artificial Intelligence; and the National Strategy for 4th Industrial Revolution.

    Wan said that these forward-looking initiatives have significantly enhanced Vietnam’s appeal as a destination for investment and innovation, attracting a substantial influx of Chinese and foreign capital and technologies over the past several years.

    “This growing synergy has laid a strong foundation for deeper economic and technological collaboration between the two countries,” she added.

    Vietnam has become a key overseas investment destination for China. In 2024, from January to August, Chinese companies invested $1.97 billion in the Southeast Asian country, maintaining a rapid rate of growth, according to the latest data released by China’s Ministry of Commerce.

    Benefiting from a booming intermediate goods trade, the rising freight volume on the China-Vietnam Railway and substantial gains resulting from the RCEP and the Belt and Road Initiative, China-Vietnam trade surged 14.6 percent year-on-year to 1.85 trillion yuan ($254.05 billion) in 2024, statistics from China’s General Administration of Customs showed.

    This momentum continued in the first two months of this year, with the value of bilateral trade rising 8.2 percent on an annual basis to 270.96 billion yuan, customs data showed.

    China’s exports to Vietnam include machinery, telecommunication equipment, electronic components, industrial raw materials, trains, ships, trucks, household appliances and construction materials.

    In addition to agricultural and aquatic products such as seafood, fruits, coffee and rice, Vietnam’s exports to China include smartphones, computers, rubber, footwear, garments and furniture.

    In the medium to long term, China and Vietnam are more likely to deepen industrial complementarity and division of labor rather than engage in direct competition, said Gao Lingyun, a researcher at the Institute of World Economics and Politics, which is affiliated with the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences in Beijing.

    “This is because both countries are at different stages of development and have distinct strengths,” said Gao, adding China leads in high-end manufacturing and technological capabilities, while Vietnam offers advantages in assembly industries and young and high-quality workers.

    On top of this, free trade deals with various economies, such as the EU (European Union)-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement and Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, have opened up opportunities, he added.

    Echoing that sentiment, Lan Qingxin, a professor specializing in cross-border investment studies at the University of International Business and Economics in Beijing, said that compared with other Southeast Asian countries as well as India and Mexico, Vietnam holds a competitive edge and market potential due to its proximity to China and its friendly foreign investment policies.

    This complementary dynamic fosters a win-win partnership, reinforcing the depth and resilience of China-Vietnam economic ties, said Lan.

    Ningbo Dafa Chemical Fiber Co, a textile and chemical raw materials manufacturer in Ningbo, Zhejiang province, has been actively exploring new possibilities in the Vietnamese market.

    “Vietnam has a well-developed furniture manufacturing industry, which drives strong demand for textile yarns and synthetic fiber materials. Our products are mainly used for furniture padding and bedding production,” said Wang Ling, the company’s sales director.

    Ningbo Dafa’s exports to Vietnam grew by 10.3 percent year-on-year to 20.64 million yuan in the first two months of this year, according to Ningbo Customs.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Stats NZ information release: Electronic card transactions: March 2025

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Electronic card transactions: March 2025 – 14 April 2025 – The electronic card transactions (ECT) series cover debit, credit, and charge card transactions with New Zealand-based merchants. The series can be used to indicate changes in consumer spending and economic activity.

    Key facts
    All figures are seasonally adjusted unless otherwise specified.

    Values are at the national level and are not adjusted for price changes.

    March 2025 month
    Changes in the value of electronic card transactions for the March 2025 month (compared with February 2025) were:

    • spending in the retail industries decreased 0.8 percent ($52 million)
    • spending in the core retail industries decreased 0.8 percent ($46 million).

    Files:

     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Mental health staff and patients at risk without plan

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    More people could be harmed if Minister for Mental Health Matt Doocey does not guarantee to protect patients and workers as the Police withdraw from supporting mental health call outs. 

    “Two reported incidents show that by withdrawing the Police’s support from mental health call outs, people suffering severe distress will fall through the cracks, and will miss out on the support and care they deserve,” Labour mental health spokesperson Ingrid Leary said.

    “The Government has failed to provide a plan to support mental health workers, patients and other staff when people detained under the Mental Health Act are brought into emergency departments. 

    “The Government said it had a plan for Police to reduce the amount of time they stay with a person detained under the Mental Health Act in an emergency department, but it’s being pushed through too fast.

    “Staff in our hospitals are already reporting high levels of violence in their workplace. Withdrawing Police without trained safe staff to step in puts everyone at risk.

    “Matt Doocey is compromising worker and patient safety and is failing to deliver the mental health support he promised New Zealanders. He should be held accountable if more incidences of harm are reported,” Ingrid Leary said.

    “While in Government, we were developing a plan to phase in mental health co-response teams nationally to respond to 111 calls for people experiencing mental distress,” Labour Police spokesperson Ginny Andersen said.

    “However, rushing through the withdrawal of Police support is irresponsible when there is no additional mental health workforce in place.”

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    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: How to mitigate construction risks and avoid disputes in pumped hydro projects

    Source: Allens Insights (legal sector)

    Given the geographical scale and requirements for PHES projects, appropriate sites are often situated on or near to culturally significant sites and/or land subject to Indigenous claims. This means PHES developments are particularly susceptible to legal challenge to licences and approvals, on the basis that developers have failed to adequately consult with Indigenous stakeholders in satisfaction of domestic ESG regulations. This risk can materialise as a result of activism by public interest groups, formal complaints to regulators and/or judicial review proceedings. Efforts to address complaints by Indigenous stakeholders and consequent litigation will not only lead to inflated costs, but also likely disrupt the project or halt progress entirely.

    Developers are also subject to stakeholder scrutiny for compliance with their own ESG policies, voluntary commitments and published representations, which may go further than domestic ESG regulations. Increasingly, stakeholders, shareholders and activists expect companies to align with both international laws and voluntary soft law standards like the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs).

    In addition to project, legal and cost consequences, failure (or perceived failure) to comply with ESG policies and commitments can lead to reputational damage and loss of social license (ie support from the community).

    Case study: Queensland Hydro Project

    The project area for the Borumba PHES project holds significant cultural importance for the Kabi Kabi people, the traditional landowners.

    The developer is reported to be in negotiations with the Kabi Kabi people, which may lead to the need to downsize the project to avoid sensitive sites.

    As part of these negotiations, an Indigenous Land Use Agreement (ILUA) has been agreed between the Kabi Kabi people and the developer to allow exploratory works to be carried out.12

    Case study: Barossa Gas Project (Northern Territory, Australia)

    In 2022, Tiwi Island traditional owners filed a lawsuit against the developer and the National Offshore Petroleum Safety and Environmental Management Authority (NOPSEMA). They argued that the developer had failed to adequately consult them about the project’s potential risks to their food sources and spiritual connection to the sea. In September 2022, the Federal Court ruled in favour of the traditional owners, invalidating the developer’s drilling approval and ordering the cessation of drilling activities.13 The developer was required to resubmit fresh approvals and was only able to recommence in early 2024 after almost 16 months of delay and another round of litigation with the Tiwi Island traditional owners.14

    Contracts should be clear around who bears the cost and time risks associated with any legal challenges. In order to mitigate against time and cost implications of potential challenges, it is essential that parties consult traditional owners early and transparently, and engage compliance policies to ensure ESG regulations and internal ESG policies and commitments are met.

    One strategy to achieve this is to design robust complaints and grievance mechanisms and deploy them as early as possible in the project. These mechanisms should allow traditional owners and other stakeholders to lodge complaints prior to design and development. This allows developers to make changes and negotiate agreements while it is still reasonably quick and inexpensive to do so.

    In 2024, the Clean Energy Council published a best practice guide for the renewable energy industry to support their engagement with First Nations. This included discussion of key principles of best practice for renewables projects with First Nations peoples, including respectful engagement, preservation of cultural heritage, ensuring economic and social benefits are shared and embedding land stewardship and cultural competency. The guide is a useful source of discussion on minimum and best practices around PHES projects.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: A ‘drastic intrusion’: appointing provisional liquidators to a solvent company

    Source: Allens Insights (legal sector)

    To protect, preserve and investigate: the role of provisional liquidators 5 min read

    In a recent Federal Court decision,1 Justice Cheeseman declined to set aside the appointment of provisional liquidators which had been made pursuant to s472(2) of the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) (the Act). The case serves as a useful reminder of the principles relevant to the appointment of a provisional liquidator, including in circumstances where the company is (or is assumed to be) solvent.

    Key takeaways

    • The appointment of a provisional liquidator remains an important tool, whether in or outside of the context of insolvency, to preserve the status quo and continue any legitimate business while commencing investigations.
    • Evidence of corporate governance failure or the shirking of statutory obligations may increase the prospect of a provisional liquidator being appointed.
    • Akin to other forms of interim preservation, the court must be satisfied that there are good prospects of the plaintiff obtaining a winding up order and that the assets of the company are in jeopardy to justify what is otherwise a drastic measure.

    Background

    The liquidator of various corporate plaintiffs commenced substantive proceedings against certain corporate defendants and individuals alleging (among other things) breaches of directors’ duties, including by a shadow director of each defendant company, where the company had become exposed to a penalty for tax avoidance. The liquidator also sought the winding up of certain related companies on the ‘just and equitable’ ground under s461(1)(k) of the Act.

    On the same day that the substantive proceedings were commenced, the liquidator made an urgent ex parte application seeking the appointment of provisional liquidators to some defendants (as well as an interim receiver to another). The evidence relied on by the liquidator included evidence that there was a risk of asset dissipation due to funds being ‘cycled’ between related companies.

    The liquidator succeeded on his application. However, less than two weeks later, some of the defendants sought to set aside the appointment of provisional liquidators (and the interim receiver).

    Provisional liquidators

    Section 472(2) of the Act provides that the court may appoint a liquidator provisionally:

    • after the filing of a winding up application and before the making of a winding up order; or
    • if there is an appeal against a winding up order, before a decision in the appeal is made.

    Similar to a liquidator, a provisional liquidator has:

    • the power to carry on the company’s business (s472(4)(a)); and
    • the powers that a liquidator of the company would have under paragraph 477(1)(d), subsection 477(2) (except paragraph 477(2)(m)) and subsection 477(3) if the company were being wound up in insolvency or by the court (s472(4)(b)).

    There is a range of circumstances that might constitute sufficient grounds to appoint a provisional liquidator. The court has wide discretion in this regard and its function is to balance the intrusion into the affairs of the company against the desire to preserve the status quo.2 If other measures are adequate to preserve the status quo, then the balance would be against the appointment of a provisional liquidator.3

    As stated by Justice Cheeseman:

    The appointment of a provisional liquidator is a drastic remedy and serious intrusion into the affairs of the company.4

    Relevant factors the court will consider when deciding whether to appoint a provisional liquidator include;

    • public interest considerations either for or against appointment.
    • whether the affairs of the company have been conducted casually without due regard to the law.
    • whether the assets of the company will be dissipated in the interim before winding up orders may be made.
    • the likelihood that there would be further acts detrimental to creditors or shareholders.
    • whether there is a lack of control over the assets of the companies arising from the intermingling of monies between the respondent companies.
    • whether there are proper books in circumstances where money has been lent between respondents.
    • whether the affairs of the company are being controlled by persons other that the de jure directors.
    • whether a provisional liquidator might be able to undertake investigations that might be fruitful.

    Decision

    Justice Cheeseman upheld the appointment of the provisional liquidators, having particular regard to:

    • the good prospects that the companies would be wound up on the just and equitable ground.
    • the public interest in preserving the status quo and to protect company assets for the benefit of creditors.
    • the facilitation of an effective investigation to enable the identification and preservation of assets.
    • the fact that none of the directors put on evidence to address the claims against them.
    • the fact that the companies appeared to be controlled by a shadow director, not the de jure directors appointed to them.
    • the fact that the companies appeared to be conducting their affairs in a casual manner, in neglect of their obligations under the Act.
    • the lack of corporate governance, and failure to comply with taxation obligations.
    • the risk of dissipation inherent in the dishonest nature of the alleged conduct, including the cycling of funds through a network of companies, and the failure to provide information and documents in respect of the external administrations of the companies.

    Interestingly, in this case the appointment of provisional liquidators was made in the absence of insolvency, or at least on the presumption of solvency. Solvency generally weighs against the appointment of a provisional liquidator. However, solvency is not a bar to the appointment of provisional liquidators where there have been serious and ongoing breaches of the Act, as in this case where Justice Cheesman noted:

    In the present circumstances, there is a justifiable lack of confidence in the conduct and management of the companies’ affairs and the evidence supports a conclusion that there have been serious and ongoing breaches of the Corporations Act by the relevant companies.5

    Rather than basing the application on insolvency, the substantive application for winding up was made on the just and equitable ground. There is significant overlap between the matters relevant to the just and equitable ground and the matters that weigh in favour of the appointment of a provisional liquidator.6

    In relation to the balance of convenience, Justice Cheesman recognised the appointment of provisional liquidators would have a seriously adverse effect on the companies and risked reputational harm, but weighed these factors against the need to protect, preserve and investigate the asset position of the companies for the benefit of creditors. A lesser form of relief was considered inadequate to provide such protection.

    Final thought

    This judgment provides a timely reminder that the appointment of provisional liquidators remains a useful interim preservation tool, even where a company is assumed to be solvent. It also highlights the risks of poor corporate governance and the willingness of the Court to intervene in circumstances where there is substantial non-compliance with the Act.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Delivers for Iowans in First 100 Days of Senate Republican Majority

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) released the following statement to celebrate 100 days of leadership from Senate Republicans.
    “During these first 100 days under Republican leadership, I’ve been hard at work delivering on the mandate Iowans and the American people gave us in November,” said Senator Ernst.“I’ve continued to lead the fight against Washington’s waste, fraud, and abuse; worked with President Trump to make Sarah’s Law the law of the land and bring closure to the Root family; helped cut red tape and reverse the era of big government under Biden; and secured real results for our farmers, small businesses, and rural communities. Republicans have accomplished a lot in just 100 days, but this is just the beginning. There is much more work to do, and I look forward to delivering more results for Iowans in every corner of our state.”  
    Background:
    Iowans elected Senator Ernst with a mandate to cut Washington’s pork and make ‘em squeal, and she has leveraged her ten years of “Squeal Awards” as the blueprint for the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), including her $2 trillion proposal and telework report. As founder and chair of the Senate DOGE Caucus, she continues working to cut trillions, save Iowans’ hard-earned taxpayer dollars, and make government work for the people by making it more efficient.
    On January 31, 2016, an illegal immigrant was driving drunk when he struck and killed 21-year-old Sarah Root. Before her family could even lay her to rest, a loophole in the law allowed her killer to be released and escape the consequences of his crimes. Since the tragedy, Senator Ernst has worked tirelessly to pass Sarah’s Law to bring closure to the Root family and ensure this never happens again. This year, she shepherded the legislation through the Senate and the House, and President Trump made this legislation the law of the land. Ernst played a critical role in attaining closure for the Root family when their daughter’s killer was delivered into U.S. custodyto face justice.
    Ernst has been working in tandem with the Trump administration to deliver results forfarmers, small business owners, and rural communities. Already, Ernst has joined Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin to announce a revision to the definition of the “waters of the United States” and cut red tape for landowners. She alsohosted Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins in Iowa where they announced continued support for the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program – an initiative Ernst has championed since its inception.
    As Chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, Ernst is refocusing the Small Business Administration on its core mission of serving Main Street,cracking down on fraudsters who went unchecked under the Biden administration, andmaking Trump’s tax cuts permanent.

    MIL OSI USA News –