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  • MIL-OSI USA: February 27th, 2025 Heinrich, Vasquez Urge New Mexico Attorney General to Investigate Health Care Centers in Denying Medical Care to New Mexicans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) sent a letter urging New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez to open an investigation into Ben Archer Health Centers refusing to provide medical care to individuals without “proof of citizenship.”

    Heinrich’s office was alerted by constituents to Ben Archer Health Centers’ new practice of requiring “proof of citizenship” yesterday. His office then verified that Ben Archer was employing this practice at school-based health clinics, for scheduled appointments at standalone clinics, and for same-day appointment requests. In defense of their actions, Ben Archer leadership pointed to President Donald Trump’s Executive Order, “Ending Taxpayer Subsidization of Open Borders,” which was issued on February 19, 2025, but has no bearing on the provision of health care to non-citizens. In fact, New Mexico and federal law both require Ben Archer Health Centers and other similarly funded health centers in the United States to provide health care to all residents of the area the center serves.

    In a post published to his social media yesterday morning, Heinrich condemned Ben Archer Health Centers for turning away patients without birth certificates on-hand at their clinics. Heinrich later welcomed news that the policy had been reversed, but has since received reports that the reversal is not being implemented consistently.

    “We write to request that you investigate whether Ben Archer Health Centers’ (BAHC) denial of medical care to individuals unable to provide “proof of citizenship,” potentially denying care to U.S. citizens, violated federal or state law and to take appropriate legal action pursuant to those findings. BAHC operates 11 clinics throughout southern New Mexico and is funded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, alongside the State of New Mexico and Doña Ana County. This federal and state support creates not only an ethical, but legal obligation to provide quality primary health care to all New Mexicans, addressing the urgent needs of medically underserved residents in our state. We are concerned that similar actions could undermine medical care across New Mexico if BAHC is not held accountable for their neglect of this principal duty,” the lawmakers wrote in their letter to New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez.

    On February 26, the lawmakers received multiple, verified reports of Ben Archer Health Centers denying medical care to New Mexicans who were unable to provide proof of U.S. citizenship. One report was from an insulin-dependent patient with diabetes who was unable to refill their insulin prescription, and another report was from a patient who states they were unable to refill their psychotropic medication at Ben Archer Health Centers’ onsite pharmacy. Another individual sent a photo of a public posting at a school-based clinic in Las Cruces stating, “any ineligible alien who entered the United States illegally or is otherwise unlawfully present in the United States does not qualify for federally funded services at Ben Archer Health Centers.”

    Ben Archer Health Centers operate clinics at three of Las Cruces Public Schools’ (LCPS) high schools. After receiving calls from the New Mexico Department of Health and the Primary Care Association of New Mexico, Ben Archer took down the posted notices. However, in visits to Ben Archer Health Centers since the reversal, constituents have experienced inconsistent requirements to access health services.

    “A west Texas measles outbreak killed a school-age child just yesterday, and New Mexico’s Department of Health has confirmed nine cases of measles in Lea County. At a moment when access to vaccinations and treatment are paramount, the last thing a family needs when attending an appointment at their local school-based clinic — funded by federal, state, and county dollars — is to be turned away unless they prove citizenship,” the lawmakers stated.

    The lawmakers also emphasized that Ben Archer Health Centers appears to be violating both state and federal law.  

    “BAHC’s unilateral decision to require documentation of citizenship as a prerequisite to providing health care at their clinics is not only unreasonably burdensome for New Mexican families, we believe it also violates the law… Despite their citing of President Donald Trump’s Executive Order, “Ending Taxpayer Subsidization of Open Borders,” as justification for their actions, that executive order has no bearing on health centers’ provision of heath care to non-citizens and does not supersede applicable law,” the lawmakers declared.

    “We are aware of constituents who have been directly impacted by BAHC’s actions and can provide additional information upon request. While we believe that the vast majority of these vital health care providers are committed to serving vulnerable New Mexicans, we urge you to investigate these allegations against BAHC, determine the extent to which the practice is continuing, and hold them accountable on behalf of patients across our state,” the lawmakers concluded.

    The text of the letter is here and below:

    Dear Attorney General Torrez,

    We write to request that you investigate whether Ben Archer Health Centers’ (BAHC) denial of medical care to individuals unable to provide “proof of citizenship,” potentially denying care to U.S. citizens, violated federal or state law and to take appropriate legal action pursuant to those findings. BAHC operates 11 clinics throughout southern New Mexico and is funded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, alongside the State of New Mexico and Doña Ana County.  This federal and state support creates not only an ethical, but legal obligation to provide quality primary health care to all New Mexicans, addressing the urgent needs of medically underserved residents in our state.  We are concerned that similar actions could undermine medical care across New Mexico if BAHC is not held accountable for their neglect of this principal duty. 

    On February 26, we received multiple, verified reports of BAHC denying medical care to New Mexicans who were unable to provide proof of U.S. citizenship.  One report was from an insulin-dependent patient with diabetes who was unable to refill their insulin prescription, and another report was from a patient who states they were unable to refill their psychotropic medication at Ben Archer’s onsite pharmacy. Another individual sent a photo of a public posting at a school-based clinic in Las Cruces stating, “any ineligible alien who entered the United States illegally or is otherwise unlawfully present in the United States does not qualify for federally funded services at Ben Archer Health Centers.” BAHC operates clinics at three of Las Cruces Public Schools’ (LCPS) high schools. After receiving calls from the New Mexico Department of Health and the Primary Care Association of New Mexico, BAHC took down the posted notices. However, a brief phone call between LCPS Superintendent, Ignacio Ruiz, and Ben Archer’s Chief Financial Officer indicates BAHC will continue to demand proof of citizenship prior to rendering health services.

    A west Texas measles outbreak killed a school-age child just yesterday, and New Mexico’s Department of Health has confirmed nine cases of measles in Lea County. At a moment when access to vaccinations and treatment are paramount, the last thing a family needs when attending an appointment at their local school-based clinic — funded by federal, state, and county dollars — is to be turned away unless they prove citizenship.

    BAHC’s unilateral decision to require documentation of citizenship as a prerequisite to providing health care at their clinics is not only unreasonably burdensome for New Mexican families, we believe it also violates the law. BAHC advertises their status as a Health Center Program grantee under 42 U.S.C. § 254b on the front page. of their website. Pursuant to subsection (a)(1)-(2) of that statute, health centers like BAHC are required to provide services for all residents within the area served by the center. Despite their citing of President Donald Trump’s Executive Order, “Ending Taxpayer Subsidization of Open Borders,” as justification for their actions, that executive order has no bearing on health centers’ provision of heath care to non-citizens and does not supersede applicable law.

    Additionally, BAHC’s actions are likely in violation of NM Stat § 24A-1-20 (2024). Section 24A-1(A)-(B) of that statute provides that state or local health benefits, therein defined as “any health benefit for which payments, assistance or health care services are provided to an individual, household or family eligibility unit by…appropriated funds of the state, a county, a local government…,” must be provided to all non-citizens, regardless of immigration status, if they meet the eligibility requirements for those benefits. Again, BAHC’s website clearly states that, in addition to federal funding, they receive funding from New Mexico state agencies, including the Department of Health, the Children, Youth, & Families Department, and the Human Services Department, as well as Doña Ana County.

    BAHC’s demands that patients produce proof of U.S. citizenship in order to receive basic health care appear to violate both state and federal law.  Their actions also unquestionably run counter to BAHC’s mission statement emphasizing access to health services for underserved populations.  Health Centers in New Mexico are currently serving over 331,000 patients, including 17,262 homeless, 18,934 school-based, and 6,596 Veteran patients. Altogether, over 15% of New Mexico’s residents are served by Health Centers with 51% of those residents being under the poverty line. We are aware of constituents who have been directly impacted by BAHC’s actions and can provide additional information upon request. While we believe that the vast majority of these vital health care providers are committed to serving vulnerable New Mexicans, we urge you to investigate these allegations against BAHC, determine the extent to which the practice is continuing, and hold them accountable on behalf of patients across our state.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: NSU Master’s students took part in the “Forum of Future Technologies”

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    The forum has been held at the initiative of the President of Russia since 2023. This year, it was attended by about 1,800 people from the fields of science, technology, politics and business from all over Russia. Among them are master’s degree students Physics Department of NSU, employees of the Institute of Hydrodynamics named after. M.A. Lavrentyeva Alexander Paraskun and Artur Asylkaev.

    The forum’s business program included 37 sessions. The key event of the forum was the plenary session with the participation of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

    — The level of development of materials science is a kind of marker of the level of technology of the country as a whole. Thus, for the synthesis of superheavy elements with numbers 119 and 120, accelerator targets based on intermetallic compounds of berkelium-249 and californium and curium, respectively, are needed. The discovery of new elements expands our knowledge of matter, and it is important to note that it was in our country that the element with atomic number 118, related to inert gases, was synthesized, but its properties are very different from other representatives of the group, — said Alexander Paraskun, a master’s student at the Physics Department of NSU.

    NSU representatives took part in several panel discussions in their fields.

    — Several panel discussions were taking place in parallel, so we visited the most interesting and closest to our specialty. Important topics were discussed at the session “Nature-like technologies: restoring the balance between the biosphere and the technosphere”. Biologization of the technosphere is one of the tasks of the century. However, without understanding how nature works at the molecular level, we will not be able to create nature-like technologies, which is exactly what megascience research facilities are needed for, — noted Alexander Paraskun.

    For two days, the forum featured an exhibition where high-tech companies from all over the country presented their innovative developments. These included titanium products, including those used in the medical field, plant growth stimulants, and 3D-printed intervertebral disc prostheses. Projects created using artificial intelligence were also presented.

    — Visiting the Future Technologies Forum is like looking into tomorrow. Here, ideas turn into projects, and an ordinary conversation can become the beginning of something grand. One of the key topics of discussion was innovative materials. For example, materials with extreme characteristics open up wide opportunities for increasing the efficiency of devices in such areas as energy, transport, aircraft engine building and space technologies. Their unique ability to withstand extreme conditions — high temperatures, pressure, mechanical loads and aggressive chemical environments — makes them indispensable for creating more reliable and efficient solutions, — shared his impressions Artur Asylaev, a master’s student at the NSU Physics Department.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police monitoring funeral in Counties Manukau this weekend

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Please attribute to Counties Manukau East Area Prevention Manager, Inspector Rakana Cook:

    Police are aware of plans for a gang-related funeral procession heading through Counties Manukau this weekend.

    We will have staff in the area monitoring to ensure the safety of the community, to monitor traffic movement and to minimise any disruption to the public.

    Antisocial or unlawful behaviour and driving related offending will not be tolerated and any of this behaviour can expect to be met with enforcement action.

    While it is not always possible to take action at the time, Police are committed to enforcing the gang insignia legislation and will take every opportunity to not only follow up on these breaches but also any other unlawful activity.

    Everyone in the community has the right to be safe and feel safe.

    Police encourage the public to report any instances of unlawful activity to us, so we can take appropriate action.

    We ask you report any unlawful behaviour to Police on 111 if it is happening now or 105 after the fact.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Yes, paper straws suck. Rather than bring back plastic ones, let’s avoid single-use items

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Bhavna Middha, ARC DECRA Senior Research Fellow, Centre for Urban Research, RMIT University

    Dragon Images/Shutterstock

    When US President Donald Trump ordered federal agencies to return to plastic straws, claiming the paper version is ineffective and “disgustingly dissolves in your mouth”, he was widely criticised for setting back efforts to reduce plastic pollution. But many alternatives designed to help phase out single-use plastics don’t really solve the problem at all.

    It’s not unusual to see plastic bans challenged or overturned. However, a government ban on the substitute is altogether new.

    It’s true paper straws can disintegrate and become soggy before we finish a drink. Problems with finding viable substitutes to single-use plastics is one of the many challenges involved in phasing them out.

    Sometimes, swapping one single-use item for another really is more trouble than it’s worth. A better approach would be to change our society’s single-use and disposal mindset.

    The problem with plastic

    Plastic pollution is an urgent problem for the environment and human health. Microplastics are everywhere, from Antarctica to our brains.

    Plastic is made from fossil fuels, and so contributes to global warming. What’s more, plastic production is forecast to triple by 2050.

    But recycling is difficult. Less than 10% of the world’s plastic has been recycled.

    So we need to reduce our use of plastic in the first place, rather than trying to clean it up afterwards.

    Substituting plastic straws for paper still involves using virgin materials.
    JeniFoto/Shutterstock

    Poor substitutes and other traps

    Trump rejected paper straws, saying they “don’t work” as well as plastic straws. The poor consumer experience of drinking through a soggy straw is one thing, but there are other problems too.

    Swapping one problematic or hazardous material for another is sometimes called “regrettable substitution”, because the replacement has its own issues. For example, one harmful chemical used to make plastics is often replaced with others that are as bad or worse.

    Paper straws, like paper cups, are often coated with plastics such as polyethylene or acrylic resin. This makes them difficult to recycle but also raises the risk of pollution. Some paper straws have been shown to contain more “forever chemicals” (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS) than plastic.

    Along with paper, other plant-based materials such as corn starch and bamboo are increasingly replacing single-use plastics – especially in food packaging. These substitutes carry a cost that is passed down to consumers, and many are more expensive to produce than plastic.

    Some are labelled “compostable” or “biodegradable”. The term compostable suggests they will break down in home compost heaps or green waste bins, but that has been called into question.

    Unfortunately, the term “biodegradable” does not necessarily mean a material will break down in home compost, or even landfill. It may require heat or pressure – in an industrial setting – for it to disintegrate enough to be harmless or safely used on your garden.

    When it comes to straws, paper, bamboo, metal and glass have all been adopted as substitutes. Metal and glass straws could be dangerous for kids and less able-bodied people. They can also be hard to clean. Again, “biodegradable plastic” products have been accused of greenwashing and have been banned from organic composting bins in New South Wales and potentially Victoria because they don’t disintegrate well or are contaminated.

    Meanwhile, thicker plastic bags labelled “reusable” have been introduced following bans on lightweight “single-use” plastic bags. While these durable bags may be reused for months at a time, they will eventually wear out and then they are even harder to break down in landfill.

    Plastic bans can be problematic

    Governments all over the world have attempted to ban single-use plastic. Often these bans are introduced without considering how the products are used in daily life and how those services will be replaced. The changes may disadvantage certain groups and new supply chains need to be created.

    Often, governments wanting to be seen as protecting the environment target the low-hanging fruit such as plastic straws and plastic bags, rather than packaging as a whole.

    So it’s no surprise these bans have faced opposition. Many have already been repealed or diluted.

    In India, for example, the plastic ban was criticised for shifting the burden of waste management away from larger, more polluting industries on to smaller businesses. Larger establishments were also accused of passing the costs of substitute packaging, such as more expensive paper and cloth, to consumers.

    Better to avoid single-use items

    It’s time to stop searching for the perfect substitute. Let’s instead focus on getting rid of single-use items altogether.

    Remember, straws were originally used for very specific cases and places: very young children and others unable to drink straight from a cup. They might still need straws.

    Single-use bottles are unnecessary. We should learn from Germany’s glass bottle reuse system and set up circular loops of production and distribution.

    Get serious about reducing plastic packaging

    While some packaging – even some plastics – is needed for food safety and freshness, an overhaul of unnecessary packaging would go a long way.

    In the United Kingdom, anti-waste charity WRAP examined fresh produce in supermarkets and called for the government to ban packaging on 21 fruits and vegetables sold in supermarkets by 2030. These included cucumbers, bananas and potatoes.

    Removing unnecessary packaging and plastics involves reconfiguring social rules, knowledge, standards and expectations such as making items without packaging affordable and widely available. We must challenge our disposable society by creating spaces and practices that allow reuse.

    Better policies and regulations

    Policies that prevent plastics from reaching consumers in the first place would be better than bans on single-use items.

    Governments should put the onus on the corporations that have profited from plastic and their role in plastic pollution.

    Supermarkets and the food industry as a whole must also take responsibility for their part in the plastic waste problem.

    Voluntary codes have not worked. Government regulation levels the playing field, but industry expertise and technical and social knowledge is needed to ensure systems work. While not without its challenges, Australia’s tyre recycling system has addressed many similar issues. The scheme’s approach to developing a national market for used tyres could be replicated for plastics, packaging and glass.

    Meaningful change for our environment and health requires government regulations done well and fairly. It also requires coordinated waste infrastructure and industry practices that build on technical expertise and consumers’ lived experience.

    Bhavna Middha receives funding from the Australian Research Council through the Discovery Early Career Research Award.

    Ralph Horne receives funding from the Australian Research Council (ARC) and a range of industry and government partners from time to time, to support research activities relevant to this article. In particular, he is a Chief Investigator on the ARC Research Hub Transformation of Reclaimed Waste Resources to Engineered Materials and Solutions for a Circular Economy (TREMS).

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

    – ref. Yes, paper straws suck. Rather than bring back plastic ones, let’s avoid single-use items – https://theconversation.com/yes-paper-straws-suck-rather-than-bring-back-plastic-ones-lets-avoid-single-use-items-250266

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: WATCH: Padilla Blasts Trump’s Pick to Lead the Department of Education

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)
    WATCH: Padilla warns of devastating impacts of Trump’s plan to abolish the Education DepartmentWASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) delivered remarks on the Senate floor to oppose President Trump’s nomination of Linda McMahon to lead the Department of Education, underscoring the enormous threat the Trump Administration poses to education for millions of students in California and across the country. President Trump has repeatedly stated he wants to eliminate the Department of Education — which would irreparably harm the education of the 80 percent of students who attend public schools.
    Padilla called out McMahon for her startling lack of qualifications to lead the Department of Education.
    “We can talk about Linda McMahon’s qualifications — or frankly, lack thereof. But I’m not shocked, because President Trump isn’t looking for someone with the background or the commitment to strengthen education in America. He’s looking for someone to destroy it. President Trump has said publicly that he wishes that Ms. McMahon would ‘put herself out of a job.’ And it’s clear that she’s ready to do it.”
    Padilla also emphasized the crucial role the Department of Education plays in promoting equal access to education, issuing protections and support for students with special needs, defending the civil rights of tens of millions of students, and managing the student loans and Pell grants that students need to afford an education.
    “Linda McMahon and Republicans in Congress will try to sell us on the idea that education should be left to states and to local communities. … Now while it’s true that state and local communities play the primary role in education, it’s actually the federal government that helps close the gaps.
    “That’s part of what makes our country strong: the idea that no matter where you live, no matter who your parents are, or what tax bracket your family is in, you have the right to a good education. Because after all, it’s the surest path to achieving your American Dream.”
    A “proud product of public education,” Senator Padilla highlighted his own background graduating from San Fernando High School and using Pell grants to help pay for college. He emphasized the opportunities the public school system afforded him, and urged his Republican colleagues to vote against McMahon to protect the right to education for millions of students.
    “I find it outrageous that Ms. McMahon and Republicans can so callously plan to take a chainsaw to the American Dreams of so many current and future students. But today, we’re here to say that tens of millions of public school students are not line items on your chopping block.
    “They deserve better. Our country is better than this. And I urge all my colleagues to reject President Trump’s attempts to abolish the Department of Education and to reject Linda McMahon’s nomination or any nominee who’s willing to carry out his wishes.”
    Video of Senator Padilla’s full remarks is available here.
    Footage of his remarks can be downloaded here. Earlier this month, Senator Padilla joined Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and his Senate colleagues in launching a probe into recent reports that Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has infiltrated the Department of Education and gained access to federal student loan data, which includes millions of borrowers’ personal information. A federal court has since blocked DOGE’s access to this sensitive information, but the Senators sent a follow-up letter earlier today raising concerns about the Department of Education’s “woefully inadequate,” “misleading” response to their inquiry.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Scientific readings “Worlds of the Russian intelligentsia in the 20th century: profession, society, power” took place

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    The scientific readings “Worlds of the Russian intelligentsia in the 20th century: profession, society, power”, dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the birth of the honorary professor of the Novosibirsk State University Varlen Lvovich Soskin (1925-2021), took place at Novosibirsk State University on February 26. The readings were attended by scientists from Novosibirsk, Omsk and Tomsk state universities, Novosibirsk State University of Economics and Law, several institutes of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences and the Institute of History and Archaeology of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Among those present were numerous students and former colleagues of the scientist. Also present at the event were V.L. Soskin’s relatives – daughter Marina Guseva, as well as granddaughter Maria and great-granddaughter Anna.

    Moderator of the readings, candidate of historical sciences, associate professor Vladimir Mindolin noted that Varlen Soskin was always characterized by attention to detail and the ability to make strong logical generalizations, for which his colleagues highly valued him. As a humanities scholar, he organically fit into the life of Akademgorodok: at a time when disputes raged between “physicists” and “lyricists”, strong friendly relations connected him with mathematicians, physicists and representatives of natural sciences. Varlen Soskin did a lot to ensure that humanities scholars integrated into the complex scientific environment of the newly created Akademgorodok. He also actively participated in educational activities and was distinguished by outstanding organizational skills.

    Rector of NSU, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Professor Mikhail Fedoruk said that Varlen Soskin’s students carefully preserve his memory. NSU initiated a great deal of significant research in the field of humanities, which received all-Union, and then all-Russian and world recognition.

    — Varlen Lvovich was the first full-time employee of the Siberian Branch of the USSR Academy of Sciences working in the field of history — he was hired on February 1, 1959, when NSU had not yet opened — the first lecture at our university took place only on September 28 of the same year. From the very beginning, Varlen Soskin linked his life with teaching at NSU, where he had a large number of students. Under his scientific supervision, 37 young scientists defended their candidate dissertations. His influence on the development of the humanitarian direction at the university and in Akademgorodok was enormous. In addition, he was strong in spirit, lived a long life, a significant part of which was associated with the war period, which was reflected in his memoirs and recollections of the times when he was a cadet at the Rostov Military School, and right up to the Great Patriotic War. The scientific readings we are opening today are further evidence that this man was loved, respected and will always be remembered at our university. His memory will live on in his many students, noted Mikhail Fedoruk.

    Participants in the readings recalled that Varlen Soskin, along with historian, academician of the USSR Academy of Sciences, professor Alexey Okladnikov, was one of the founders of humanitarian research at the Siberian Branch of the USSR Academy of Sciences (now the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences). The professor’s students call the subject of his research “explosive” for the Soviet era. He viewed the intelligentsia not as a social stratum, but as the most important social force. Varlen Soskin discussed the fate of the intelligentsia and the cultural policy of the state with the maximum amount of freethinking allowed at that time. Each of his articles and especially his books caused a furor. The entire university attended his lectures, the students loved him, and his colleagues recognized that it was precisely such teachers who determined the university’s noosphere.

    Chairman of the Committee on Traditions of the Union of the NSU Graduates Association “NSU Union”, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Professor Sergei Netesov emphasized that the traditions that Varlen Soskin brought to NSU are still alive and well.

    – Varlen Leonidovich made a significant contribution to the development of our university and became its legend. The traces he left in the history of Siberia, in the history of NSU, in the history of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences will never be overgrown, they remained in many historical testimonies, – said Sergei Netesov.

    Director of the Humanities Institute of NSU, Professor Andrey Zuyev noted that Varlen Soskin was one of the organizers of humanitarian education at the university, under his scientific supervision 131 students of the Humanities Faculty and then the Humanities Institute wrote and defended their final qualification works. Many of them later became doctors of science, now make a significant contribution to the development of science and occupy quite serious positions in various fields of science and education.

    Director of the Institute of History of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Doctor of Historical Sciences Vadim Rynkov shared his memories of Varlen Soskin’s lectures and admitted that during his student years he underestimated them, citing the differences between the generations of teachers and students.

    — Varlen Lvovich probably felt the age difference between him and the students, and each year he gave us a little less of the main material, and told us a little more about himself and his life experience. Only many years later I began to understand how important it was. Nowadays, studying not only the history of science, but also scientific everyday life is very widespread. And he passed on the history of this everyday life of science to us. Varlen Lvovich was a unique person, a bright representative of Siberian, Akademgorodok science, — said Vadim Rynkin and showed the audience Varlen Soskin’s personnel file, which is kept at the Institute of History of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences. At the same time, he noted that this is the bureaucratic side of the biography of the honorary professor, but, in addition, it is also a unique source of information from the history of scientific everyday life.

    In the memorial part of the readings, the chief researcher of the sector of history of social and economic development of the Institute of History of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Professor Sergei Krasilnikov presented a substantive presentation “Varlen Lvovich Soskin: the life of a scientist, organizer of science, mentor”. There was also a presentation of the book “From the personal perspective of the fate of a historian: on the 100th anniversary of the birth of Professor Varlen Lvovich Soskin”. A specialized issue of the electronic scientific journal of the Institute of History of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences “Historical Courier” was presented, dedicated to this significant date. The opening of the exhibition “Life as a Vocation” prepared by the staff of the Museum of History of NSU took place.

    The scientific readings were held within the framework of two sections: “After the Empire: Intellectual Labor in Early Soviet Society: People, Ideas, Fates” and “Scientists and Power: Role in the Development and Implementation of Large Scientific and Technical Projects”. The reports were heard from scientists from NSU, the Institute of Economics and Industrial Organization of the SB RAS, the A.P. Ershov Institute of Informatics Systems of the SB RAS, the Institute of History of the SB RAS, Tomsk State University, the Historical Archive of the Omsk Region, the Institute of History and Archaeology of the Ural Branch of the RAS, and the Novosibirsk State University of Economics and Law. Various topics were considered: continuity and gaps in intellectual activity, Tomsk University in the era of transformations of the early Soviet period, the struggle to preserve university autonomy, the role of scientists in the field of theory and practice of domestic planning, and the adaptation of the intelligentsia to the conditions of Siberian exile in the 1920s.

    Reference:

    Varlen Lvovich Soskin is a participant in the Great Patriotic War: a cadet of the artillery school (1943-1944), fought in the active army (1944-1945), was wounded. He graduated from the history department of Leningrad State University (1952) and completed his postgraduate studies at the Novosibirsk State Pedagogical Institute (1956) under the supervision of Assoc. Prof. P. D. Chaplik. Candidate of Historical Sciences (1957); dissertation topic: “The role of the city’s patronage over the village in the CPSU’s struggle to strengthen the alliance of the working class and the peasantry during the recovery period (1921-1925)”. Doctor of Historical Sciences (1969); dissertation topic: “Cultural construction in Siberia (1917-1923)”. Senior Researcher (1962). Associate Professor (1966). Professor (1970). Honored Scientist of the Russian Federation (1997). Honored Worker of Higher Education of the Russian Federation (2012). Honorary Professor of NSU (2012).

    He worked in general education institutions and universities in Kemerovo and Novosibirsk (1952–1959). Since 1959, he has been an employee of the Siberian Branch of the USSR Academy of Sciences / Russian Academy of Sciences: senior research fellow of the Standing Commission on Social Sciences of the Presidium of the Siberian Branch of the USSR Academy of Sciences (since 1959); senior research fellow of the Department of Humanities Research at the Institute of Economics and Industrial Organization (since 1961); senior research fellow (since 1967), head of the sector for the history of cultural construction (1970–1995), chief research fellow (1995–2012) of the Institute of History, Philology and Philosophy / Institute of History.

    He worked at NSU part-time since 1964. One of the founders of historical training at the Faculty of Humanities. Associate Professor (1964–1969), Professor (1969–2017) of the Department of History of the USSR/Russian History.

    State awards: Order of the Patriotic War, 2nd class, medals “For Courage”, “For Victory over Germany”, “For the Capture of Königsberg”, “For Valiant Labor”, etc.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s Tianjin Port reports record single-vessel auto exports

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    A vessel carrying more than 4,000 vehicles departed from north China’s Tianjin Port on Wednesday, bound for overseas markets including South America.

    This marks a new record for single-vessel exports of automobiles at the Port in recent years, according to the Tianjin Port (Group) Co., Ltd.

    The vehicles, covering various types including pure electric and hybrid, were developed in Beijing and manufactured in Tianjin and Hebei Province. They are expected to reach their destinations in over 20 days.

    As the largest automobile import and export hub in northern China, Tianjin Port operates over 30 roll-on/roll-off shipping routes to markets such as Europe, the Middle East and South America.

    The port has been enhancing its services to automobile enterprises in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region and coordinating with international shipping companies to facilitate their transportation.

    Meanwhile, Tianjin Customs has been offering support to enterprises in spheres including automotive parts manufacturing and export logistics.

    China’s automobile exports maintained growth momentum in 2024, shipping a total of 6.41 million vehicles overseas last year, up 23 percent year on year, data from the China Passenger Car Association showed.

    China initiated the strategy of coordinating the development of Beijing, Tianjin and Hebei, collectively known as “Jing-Jin-Ji,” in early 2014 to create a model with a better economic structure, a cleaner environment and improved public services. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Rare Disorders New Zealand 25th anniversary

    Source: New Zealand Governor General

    E nga mana, e nga reo, e nga iwi o te motu e huihui nei, tēnei aku mihi nui ki a koutou. Kia ora tātou katoa.

    I specifically acknowledge

    • John Forman, founder of Rare Disorders New Zealand
    • James McGoram, Board Chair; and
    • Chris Higgins, Chief Executive of Rare Disorders New Zealand

    My warmest welcome to members of the Rare Disorders community, to whānau, and to carers and supporters.

    I am very pleased to be Patron of Rare Disorders New Zealand, and to support your work by joining you in celebrating your 25th anniversary with this afternoon’s reception and awards ceremony.

    It’s a truism worth repeating that we judge a society by the way it cares for its most vulnerable people. Twenty-five years ago, Rare Disorders New Zealand took up the challenge of representing people who understand what it is to feel alone and isolated, and appreciate the huge difference the right diagnosis and treatment can make to their lives. By helping them and representing their interests, you have helped Aotearoa New Zealand to be a better place.

    The concept of an ‘umbrella organisation’ evokes manaakitanga, support and shelter from the elements.

    I like to think you will also relate to this whakataukī: ‘Ki te kotahi te kakaho, ka whati; ki te kapuia, e kore e whati’ – which translates as ‘a reed that stands alone can be broken, but it will not be broken if it stands alongside others’.

    Rare Disorders New Zealand has enabled people to experience strength and support by standing together in whanaungatanga.

    You have been tireless advocates for a more coordinated approach to diagnosis and treatment, and your mahi bore fruit with the launch, last year, of New Zealand’s first national strategy for rare disorders.

    The Aotearoa New Zealand Rare Disorders Strategy is a significant milestone, responding as it does to the lived experiences and needs of your community, as revealed through your own surveys.

    I appreciate the impact of the Strategy has yet to be felt – and you will be eager to see meaningful progress – whether that be with earlier diagnosis, clearer pathways for clinical care, better access to support and medicines, appropriate training for the health workforce, or the gathering of research data.

    With my own background in health and academia, I am delighted to see the establishment of the Rare Disorders Research Network,  based in Victoria University. The Network will enable New Zealand researchers to experience the support of colleagues working in similar fields, and encourage coordinated research programmes.

    Their findings will have real-life implications for your community, and contribute to global understanding of rare disorders and their treatment.

    I appreciate that as a charitable organisation, Rare Disorders New Zealand is reliant on the tireless dedication of a small number of staff and a large number of volunteers. I welcome this opportunity to thank you all for devoting your time, energy and expertise to such a worthy cause.

    Today we are also formally acknowledging award recipients for their steadfast commitment to the rare disorders community, and thanking them, on behalf of all New Zealanders, for what they have achieved.

    Once again, I welcome you all to Government House. Please allow me to extend to you all the aroha and manaakitanga you so often extend to others, and are so deserving of receiving yourselves.

    Kia ora, kia kaha, huihui tātou katoa

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Australian Deputy PM: Regional airports in Victoria set to soar

    Source: Minister of Infrastructure

    The Albanese Labor Government is building Australia’s future, investing almost $4.5 million to upgrade nine regional airports across Victoria. 

    Airports are vital for regional communities, providing critical access to emergency healthcare, as well as commerce, industry, tourism and education. 

    Funded under Round 4 of the Regional Airports Program, these essential upgrades will include runway resurfacing and sealing, line marking and drainage – which will improve safety and enhance accessibility at these regional airports. 

    City of Ballarat will receive $1.1 million to repurpose an old terminal building at Ballarat Airport into a new, fit for purpose space for emergency responders as well as medical patients awaiting transfer. 

    A dedicated aircraft parking area for aeromedical aircraft will also be provided allowing direct access to the facility.

    Other works to be funded under Round 4 in Victoria include: 

    $1.9 million for the Mildura Airport to rejuvenate and repair the main runway and related pavement areas ensuring the safety of aircraft, operations and passengers, maintaining connectivity for the region.

    $210,000 for upgrades to the Maryborough Aerodrome which will support the continued safe use, communication and access at the airport for emergency services, including aeromedical and fire services as well as general aviation use.

    $138,463 for the reseal of the Yarrawonga Runway to allow for the continued use of the aerodrome for delivery of essential goods and services, aeromedical flights, and general and recreational aviation.

    $185,955 to upgrade the main apron at Warrnambool Airport which will allow for two further aircraft to park and improve aircraft manoeuvring and parking.

    Today’s announcement builds on the nearly $100 million that has already been delivered to support 194 projects under the first three rounds of the program. 

    For more information on the Regional Airports Program, including a full list of Round 4 projects in Victoria, visit www.infrastructure.gov.au/infrastructure-transport-vehicles/aviation/regional-remote-aviation/regional-airports-program.

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:

    “We’re backing regional communities across Victoria by backing our regional airports, which keep communities connected, and support increased economic opportunities. 

    “The new facility will mean that whether you’re on your way to fight a fire, or have a family member needing emergency health care, there will be a safe and appropriate place to wait, regardless of the weather outside. 

    “Ballarat Airport plays a critical role within our region throughout bushfire season, and in supporting emergency healthcare all year long. The benefits of this investment will be felt far beyond the boundaries of the City of Ballarat.” 

    Quotes attributable to City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Tracey Hargreaves:

    “The Ballarat Airport serves as a key hub for much of western Victoria, particularly in relation to aeromedical patient transfers and as an operational base for emergency services, including aerial firefighting crews.  

    “The new facility will provide emergency services personnel, air crews and patients with a dedicated, safe and protected space at the airport to conduct patients transfers and medical examinations while waiting for aircraft to arrive — out of the often-harsh Ballarat weather.

    “This facility, together with the recently completed runway extension, is essential to the Ballarat Airport’s envisioned future as a hub for the west of the state that can cater to larger commercial and emergency services aircraft. The City of Ballarat thanks the Australian Government for their investment in this critical facility.”  

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Regional airports in Victoria set to soar

    Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development

    The Albanese Labor Government is building Australia’s future, investing almost $4.5 million to upgrade nine regional airports across Victoria. 

    Airports are vital for regional communities, providing critical access to emergency healthcare, as well as commerce, industry, tourism and education. 

    Funded under Round 4 of the Regional Airports Program, these essential upgrades will include runway resurfacing and sealing, line marking and drainage – which will improve safety and enhance accessibility at these regional airports. 

    City of Ballarat will receive $1.1 million to repurpose an old terminal building at Ballarat Airport into a new, fit for purpose space for emergency responders as well as medical patients awaiting transfer. 

    A dedicated aircraft parking area for aeromedical aircraft will also be provided allowing direct access to the facility.

    Other works to be funded under Round 4 in Victoria include: 

    $1.9 million for the Mildura Airport to rejuvenate and repair the main runway and related pavement areas ensuring the safety of aircraft, operations and passengers, maintaining connectivity for the region.

    $210,000 for upgrades to the Maryborough Aerodrome which will support the continued safe use, communication and access at the airport for emergency services, including aeromedical and fire services as well as general aviation use.

    $138,463 for the reseal of the Yarrawonga Runway to allow for the continued use of the aerodrome for delivery of essential goods and services, aeromedical flights, and general and recreational aviation.

    $185,955 to upgrade the main apron at Warrnambool Airport which will allow for two further aircraft to park and improve aircraft manoeuvring and parking.

    Today’s announcement builds on the nearly $100 million that has already been delivered to support 194 projects under the first three rounds of the program. 

    For more information on the Regional Airports Program, including a full list of Round 4 projects in Victoria, visit www.infrastructure.gov.au/infrastructure-transport-vehicles/aviation/regional-remote-aviation/regional-airports-program.

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:

    “We’re backing regional communities across Victoria by backing our regional airports, which keep communities connected, and support increased economic opportunities. 

    “The new facility will mean that whether you’re on your way to fight a fire, or have a family member needing emergency health care, there will be a safe and appropriate place to wait, regardless of the weather outside. 

    “Ballarat Airport plays a critical role within our region throughout bushfire season, and in supporting emergency healthcare all year long. The benefits of this investment will be felt far beyond the boundaries of the City of Ballarat.” 

    Quotes attributable to City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Tracey Hargreaves:

    “The Ballarat Airport serves as a key hub for much of western Victoria, particularly in relation to aeromedical patient transfers and as an operational base for emergency services, including aerial firefighting crews.  

    “The new facility will provide emergency services personnel, air crews and patients with a dedicated, safe and protected space at the airport to conduct patients transfers and medical examinations while waiting for aircraft to arrive — out of the often-harsh Ballarat weather.

    “This facility, together with the recently completed runway extension, is essential to the Ballarat Airport’s envisioned future as a hub for the west of the state that can cater to larger commercial and emergency services aircraft. The City of Ballarat thanks the Australian Government for their investment in this critical facility.”  

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Road closed following vehicle fire, Mangawhai

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Motorists are being advised a section of Mangawhai Road has been closed following a vehicle fire.

    The fire, near the intersection of Wood Pigeon Lane, was reported to Police at about 3.13pm.

    Emergency services are onsite as the blaze has engulfed a small section of nearby bush land.

    There are no reports of injury.

    Motorists are being advised to expect delays or seek an alternate route.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement by the Prime Minister on the results of the provincial election in Ontario

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the results of the provincial election in Ontario:

    “On behalf of the Government of Canada, I congratulate Doug Ford and the Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario on their re‑election.

    “At this crucial time, we must work together to defend Canadian interests, protect workers and businesses, and grow our economy. This includes making progress on the top-of-mind priorities of Ontarians and all Canadians – creating good-paying jobs, building more homes, and investing in health care and affordable child care.

    “Together, we can build stronger communities and a stronger, fairer province and country for everyone.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President Lai presides over third meeting of Healthy Taiwan Promotion Committee

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    Details
    2024-11-28
    President Lai presides over second meeting of Healthy Taiwan Promotion Committee
    On the afternoon of November 28, President Lai Ching-te presided over the second meeting of the Healthy Taiwan Promotion Committee. In his opening statement, the president said that we are implementing mental health support programs this year to provide more support for young and middle-aged people, pointing out that the policy has served over 20,000 people since it was implemented just over three months ago. In terms of bolstering mental health resiliency, the president said we still have much to do, our government must lead by example, and the public and private sectors must work together, making every effort to ensure that no one is left behind. Noting that our goal is to reduce the standardized cancer mortality rate by one-third by the year 2030, President Lai stated that next year’s budget for cancer screening will be increased to NT$6.8 billion. He also stated that plans are in the works to establish a fund for new cancer drugs, adding that in the general budget we will allocate NT$5 billion, which will gradually rise to NT$10 billion. At the same time, he said, we are also actively promoting genetic testing and precision medicine. He expressed confidence that expanding preventive screening at the front end and providing advanced treatments at the back end will effectively fight cancer and improve the overall health of our citizens. A translation of President Lai’s opening statement follows: Today is the second meeting of the Healthy Taiwan Promotion Committee. First, I want to thank our two deputy conveners, our advisors and committee members, and our friends online for their enthusiastic participation. I also want to welcome Committee Member Chien Wen-jen (簡文仁), who was on leave for the previous meeting. I would also like to introduce three new committee members: Let’s welcome Committee Member Huang Chin-shun (黃金舜), president of the Federation of Taiwan Pharmacists Associations. During the pandemic, he led the nation’s pharmacists in promoting services including name-based distribution systems for masks and rapid-test kits and home delivery of medications. I am sure that he will be able to provide many valuable views regarding pharmaceutical safety and supply resilience.    Let’s also welcome Committee Member Ko Fu-yang (柯富揚). During his time as secretary-general of the National Union of Chinese Medical Doctors’ Association, he led the Chinese medicine community in the transition from experience-based medicine to evidence-based medicine, and promoted the modernization of traditional Chinese medicine. With his participation, the committee will be able to spur research and development in both modern and traditional medicine. Our third new committee member is Liao Mei-nan (廖美南), president of the Taiwan Nurses Association, who was unable to be here today. She has long been dedicated to raising the quality of nursing care and actively promoting a high-quality, friendly work environment for nurses. The committee will rely on her experience to strengthen the link between policy and practice in nursing care. I want to thank all the members of the committee once again for working together with the government. Since the last committee meeting, under the guidance of Minister without Portfolio Chen Shih-chung (陳時中), the Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW) has implemented various policies. At the beginning of October, for example, three major AI centers were set up to resolve three key AI application issues: implementation, certification, and reimbursement, helping advance Taiwan’s smart healthcare ecosystem. At today’s meeting, the MOHW will first deliver a report on the progress of certain items listed in the first committee meeting, followed by a joint report by the MOHW and Ministry of Education on bolstering public mental health resilience and a report by the MOHW on enhancing cancer prevention and treatment strategies.  The World Health Organization has affirmed that “there is no health without mental health.” In a fast-changing, fast-paced society, the government should invest more resources in the field of mental health to safeguard the people’s overall health. We are therefore implementing mental health support programs this year and expanding the range of eligibility, from 15 to 30, to 15 to 45 years old, to provide more support for young and middle-aged people. That policy has served over 20,000 people since it was implemented just over three months ago. In terms of bolstering mental health resiliency, we still have much to do. From the workplace to the campus and every corner of society, our government must lead by example, and the public and private sectors must work together, making every effort to ensure that no one is left behind.    Aside from mental health, in view of cancer being the leading cause of death in Taiwan for 42 consecutive years, our goal is to reduce the standardized cancer mortality rate by one-third by the year 2030. And so we must expand screening and advance treatment. Last year, the government subsidized screenings for five types of cancer, providing a total of 4.87 million screenings and detecting 11,000 cases of cancer and 52,000 cases of precancerous conditions. We have allocated an additional NT$4 billion beginning next year, bringing the total budget for cancer screening to NT$6.8 billion, to expand the scope of cancer screening eligibility and services.  Plans are also in the works to establish a fund for new cancer drugs. In next year’s general budget we will allocate NT$5 billion, which will gradually rise to NT$10 billion, to provide reimbursement funding for a variety of new cancer drugs and reduce the economic burden on patients. These new measures will be reported on in detail moments from now by the MOHW. At the same time, we are also actively promoting genetic testing and precision medicine. Next generation sequencing, for example, has already been included in National Health Insurance coverage, which will help provide patients with precise, individualized treatment strategies. I am confident that expanding preventive screening at the front end and providing advanced treatments at the back end will effectively fight cancer and improve the overall health of our citizens. Today’s meeting will help the government understand viewpoints from many perspectives so we can promote policies that more closely meet the public’s needs. Let’s keep working hard together. Thank you.  Following his statement, President Lai heard a report on the progress of certain items listed in the first committee meeting from deputy executive secretary and National Health Insurance Administration Director General Shih Chung-liang (石崇良), a joint report on bolstering public mental health resilience from Deputy Minister of Health and Welfare Lin Ching-yi (林靜儀) and Deputy Minister of Education Lin Teng-chiao (林騰蛟), and a report on enhancing cancer prevention and treatment strategies from Deputy Minister of Health and Welfare Chou Jih-haw (周志浩). Afterward, President Lai exchanged views with the committee members regarding the content of the reports.  

    Details
    2024-11-28
    President Lai presides over first meeting of Healthy Taiwan Promotion Committee
    On the afternoon of August 22, President Lai Ching-te presided over the first meeting of the Healthy Taiwan Promotion Committee. As the committee’s convener, the president presented committee members with their letters of appointment, and explained that the Healthy Taiwan Promotion Committee is not just about promoting a Healthy Taiwan, but also achieving a Balanced Taiwan. The president stated that the committee spans various areas of expertise, and also considers the balance of Taiwan’s northern, central, southern, and eastern regions. The president expressed confidence that by soliciting a wide range of suggestions, engaging in diverse dialogue, and forging a consensus, the committee can help to realize health equality and further elevate the standard of medical care in Taiwan. President Lai indicated that next year, the Ministry of Health and Welfare’s total budget will be increased, along with expanded investment in medical treatment and care. In addition, he reported that the central government budget has also added a National Health Insurance (NHI) financial assistance program, which will help to enhance the work environments of healthcare professionals. The president stated that we will also launch the Healthy Taiwan Cultivation Plan to help rear talent and develop smart medicine. These budgets and programs, President Lai stated, reflect the government’s determination to create a Healthy Taiwan, and prove that “Healthy Taiwan” is not just a slogan, and has already been turned into concrete action. A translation of President Lai’s opening statement follows: At the end of my first month in office, I announced that the Presidential Office will establish three committees in response to three major global issues of nationwide concern: climate change, health promotion, and social resilience. These committees will consolidate forces from different sectors to strategize on national development. At the beginning of this month, we convened the first meeting of the National Climate Change Committee. Today, we convene the first meeting of the Healthy Taiwan Promotion Committee. I would like to thank the three deputy conveners and all advisors and committee members for making a commitment to the Healthy Taiwan Promotion Committee. I also want to thank our fellow citizens and friends joining us online to follow the committee’s proceedings. During my campaign, I was constantly thinking about what I could contribute to our people that is different from past presidents if I were fortunate enough to be elected. After a lot of thought, I felt that as a physician, I should utilize my professional background in health care and work together with people from all sectors of society to help create a Healthy Taiwan. Healthy Taiwan is our goal, and health is both a basic human right and a universal value. Health promotion not only involves the well-being of a nation’s people, but is also of great concern to humankind so that we may survive and thrive. Taiwan is a responsible member of the international community. Amid the challenges of the pandemic over the past few years, we have shared disease prevention supplies, technology, and experience with countries around the world, and have continued to contribute to the global public health system. Going forward, Taiwan must actively address critical health-related challenges, including cancer, transnational communicable diseases of unknown origin, antibiotic-resistant superbugs, a low birth rate, and an aging society. We are confident that, sharing countermeasures and experience with countries around the world, we can keep people healthy and make the nation stronger so that the world embraces Taiwan. I want to thank former Superintendent of National Cheng Kung University Hospital Chen Jyh-hong (陳志鴻), who is also a mentor of mine, for organizing five regional forums and a national forum for the Healthy Taiwan Promotion Alliance this past March and April. Over 1,200 healthcare professionals from all over the country attended the forums and shared their views. Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰), Vice Premier Cheng Li-chiun (鄭麗君), and I were also invited to attend the national forum and participate in full. I also want to thank the experts from various fields for their suggestions throughout this process, which became key reference points for promoting policies after we took office on May 20. The position paper on the table in front of you is a compilation of those valuable insights, which will be the foundation of our future actions. To implement the Healthy Taiwan initiative, we must also achieve a Balanced Taiwan. Therefore, the Healthy Taiwan Promotion Committee established today not only spans various areas of expertise, but also considers the balance of Taiwan’s northern, central, southern, and eastern regions to achieve nationwide health equality. I want to thank the nine advisors here with us today: Superintendent Wu Ming-shiang (吳明賢), Superintendent Chen Wei-ming (陳威明), Chairman Cherng Wen-jin (程文俊), President Chiu Kuan-ming (邱冠明), and Chairman Chang Hong-jen (張鴻仁) from northern Taiwan; Superintendent Chen Mu-kuan (陳穆寬) from central Taiwan; Superintendent Lin Sheng-che (林聖哲) and President Yu Ming-lung (余明隆) from southern Taiwan; and Superintendent Lin Shinn-zong (林欣榮) from eastern Taiwan. Your participation will give us a better understanding of viewpoints from around the country. The objective of Healthy Taiwan is to raise the population’s average life expectancy while simultaneously reducing time spent living with illness or disability, while also caring for physical, mental, and spiritual health. The 20 members of the committee are therefore drawn from a variety of fields of professional expertise. We have Superintendent Chen Shih-ann (陳適安) in the field of smart medicine, Vice-Superintendent Susan Shur-fen Gau (高淑芬) in pediatric psychiatry, medical and long-term care service integration specialist Superintendent Chan Ding-cheng (詹鼎正), and emerging infectious disease specialist Director Shen Ching-fen (沈靜芬). We have also invited Professor Tsai Sen-tien (蔡森田) to provide suggestions on optimizing healthcare services and health insurance sustainability, and invited President Chou Ching-ming (周慶明) and President Huang Cheng-kuo (黃振國) to continue promoting the Family Medicine Plan and report on primary care issues. We have also recruited President Li Yi-heng (李貽恒), who put forward the 888 Program for prevention and treatment of the “three highs” (high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and high blood sugar) and kidney disease, pediatric health specialist President Ni Yen-hsuan (倪衍玄), women’s health care specialist Secretary-General Huang Jian-pei (黃建霈), and President Hung Te-jen (洪德仁), who is focused on community development. We also have Dean Shan Yan-shen (沈延盛) from the field of cancer prevention and treatment, psychiatric and mental health specialist Professor Su Kuan-pin (蘇冠賓), epidemiology expert and Emeritus Research Fellow Ho Mei-shang (何美鄉), and biomedicine and regenerative medicine specialist Professor Patrick Ching-ho Hsieh (謝清河). The committee also includes specialist in nutrition and health for all ages President Kuo Su-e (郭素娥), and expert in the promotion of physical activity and health Vice Chairman Chien Wen-jen (簡文仁). I also want to thank Chairman Lin De-wen (林德文) for participating as we work together to enhance the health and well-being of indigenous peoples. In addition, public sector participants include Minister of National Development Liu Chin-ching (劉鏡清) and Minister of Education Cheng Ying-yao (鄭英耀), as well as Minister of Health and Welfare Chiu Tai-yuan (邱泰源), who is serving as executive secretary, and NHI Administration Director General Shih Chung-liang (石崇良) serving as deputy executive secretary. Over 80 percent of the committee’s members are from the private sector, and I will take advantage of this opportunity to continue to combine the strengths of all stakeholders throughout society to promote a healthy lifestyle for one and all, and enhance medical care for all ages. At today’s first meeting of the committee, the Ministry of Health and Welfare will brief us on two topics: the first is the Healthy Taiwan vision plan, illustrating Taiwan’s current challenges and opportunities, as well as an action blueprint. The second issue is reform and optimization for NHI sustainability. Next year will mark the 30th anniversary of our NHI system. NHI is the pride of Taiwan, because health insurance can free citizens from the vicious cycle of poverty caused by illness, or illness caused by poverty. Since 2020, the NHI system has achieved a public satisfaction rate of over 90 percent. Next year, Taiwan will also become a “super-aged society,” which means that one of every five people will be a senior citizen 65 or older. Due to new pharmaceuticals of all kinds, the development of new technologies, and citizen expectations for an optimized medical practice environment, many aspects of health insurance operations will face an increasing number of challenges. The NHI system’s core values are health equality and mutual assistance for all. Better care for everyone, however, depends on sustainable NHI operations. We closely monitor NHI system point values, but also want to embody the greater values of the system. The government will continue to refine the budget system and management, rationally distribute medical resources and stabilize point values, and continue to optimize NHI finances to enhance the efficiency and quality of services. We also look forward to working with everyone to achieve sustainable NHI development, enhance health equality, and further elevate the standard of medical care in Taiwan. I also want to report that next year, the Ministry of Health and Welfare’s total budget will reach NT$370.2 billion, an increase of NT$31.8 billion over this year. The total budget is expected to allocate NT$60.7 billion to expand investment in medical treatment and care to create a Healthy Taiwan. The central government budget has also added an NHI financial assistance program that includes incentives for maintaining specified nurse-patient ratios across all three shifts and rotating night-shift nursing staff, and promoting smart information upgrades at medical facilities to enhance the work environments of healthcare professionals. We will also launch the Healthy Taiwan Cultivation Plan, investing funds to support medical institutions at all levels nationwide, rear talent, and develop smart medicine. Regarding the fund for new cancer drugs that many cancer patients care deeply about, in next year’s general budget we will allocate NT$5 billion for health insurance funding. In 2026, that figure is expected to reach NT$10 billion. We will also promote the fifth-stage national plan for cancer prevention and treatment, and beginning next year the budget for cancer screening will be increased by NT$4 billion, reaching NT$6.8 billion, to boost screening rates. I want everyone to know that these budgets and programs reflect the government’s determination to create a Healthy Taiwan. Since I took office, the government has created plans and programs to increase nursing staff levels and promote public mental health. We also launched an Acute Hospital Care at Home pilot project to provide integrated long-term and medical care services. Once again, I would like to thank everyone here today for participating, and thank our fellow citizens for their support. I also want our fellow citizens to know that Healthy Taiwan is not just a slogan, and has already been turned into concrete action. These are all concrete, substantive actions by a government team that has been in office for less than 100 days. I am confident that with the support and participation of our committee members and advisors, and through soliciting a wide range of suggestions, engaging in diverse dialogue, and forging a consensus, our actions to create a Healthy Taiwan will more closely align with society’s expectations, and we will move more quickly and steadily toward realizing our vision. Thank you. Following his statement, President Lai presented letters of appointment to the committee members, heard a report from Minister Chiu illustrating the Healthy Taiwan vision plan, and heard a report from Director General Shih on reform and optimization for NHI sustainability. Afterward, President Lai exchanged views with the committee members regarding the content of the two reports and the Rules of Procedure for Meetings of the Office of the President Healthy Taiwan Promotion Committee.

    Details
    2024-11-28
    President Lai attends opening of International Conference on Emergency Medicine 2024
    On the morning of June 20, President Lai Ching-te attended the opening ceremony of the International Conference on Emergency Medicine (ICEM) 2024. In remarks, President Lai stated that one goal of his administration is to create an even healthier Taiwan and that we will continue to strengthen our capabilities in medicine and public health to enhance health for all and help make the world a better place. The president emphasized that the global disease prevention network is something every country should be a part of, and that if any country is missing from this network, the rest of the world will be at a disadvantage. The president then asked for the participants’ support for Taiwan to participate in the World Health Organization so that we may contribute even more to the global public health system. A transcript of President Lai’s remarks follows: I would like to begin by welcoming all guests from overseas to Taiwan. ICEM is the world’s largest conference on emergency medicine. Over 2,500 experts and academics from home and abroad have gathered here for this year’s conference. This not only underlines the importance of emergency medicine, but is also a testament to global cooperation in medicine. This year also marks TSEM’s [Taiwan Society of Emergency Medicine] 30th anniversary. I would like to thank Chairperson Ng Chip-jin (黃集仁), President Hsu Chien-chin (許建清), and everyone who helped bring ICEM to Taiwan. This conference will help expand people-to-people diplomacy, showing Taiwan’s development and contributions in emergency medicine to the world. I am confident that everyone here shares my belief that health is a basic human right. And to ensure this right, emergency medical professionals are indispensable. Before entering politics, I myself worked as a clinician. I know well that emergency rooms are at the frontline of hospitals, and often the last hope for those who need lifesaving care. Especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, we all witnessed the rapid response and important support of emergency medical professionals, who gave their all for the health of others. I want to take this opportunity to express my utmost respect for your work. The theme of ICEM 2024 is Glocalization of Emergency Medicine: Global Wisdom and Local Solution. With that in mind, I hope that through clinical research, public health, smart tech, and other strategies, we can help reduce disparities in emergency medicine around the world. Here in Taiwan, we have made major progress in emergency medicine, from developing a cutting-edge trauma care system to implementing advanced strategies for disaster response. We are also committed to training highly skilled professionals in the field, as well as developing an advanced medical infrastructure. This conference will give Taiwan the opportunity to share our experience, and allow everyone to exchange best practices, engage in discussions, and promote the global development of emergency medicine. One goal of my administration is to create an even healthier Taiwan. We will continue to strengthen our capabilities in medicine and public health to enhance health for all and help make the world a better place. A healthier Taiwan also means a booming medical sector, and an even higher quality and diversity of medical services. Taiwan has had, and will continue to have, many medical accomplishments to share with the world. Today, all of you gather here to continue making global contributions through emergency medicine. The mission of IFEM [International Federation for Emergency Medicine] is to create a world where all people, in all countries, have access to high quality emergency medical care. On this point, the global disease prevention network is something every country should be a part of. If any country is missing from this network, the rest of the world will be at a disadvantage. I would like to ask for your support for Taiwan to participate in the World Health Organization, so that we may contribute even more to the global public health system. And as President Hsu Chien-chin has said, although the road is long, if we travel together, we can travel far. With this vision as our guide, alongside our friends from around the world, Taiwan will strive to achieve our common goals and realize quality healthcare for all. I wish ICEM 2024 great success, and all participants a rewarding experience. I also invite you to travel around Taiwan during your stay, and get to know our beautiful nation. Following his remarks, President Lai and the distinguished guests took part in the kick-off ceremony for the conference. IFEM President Ffion Davies was also in attendance at the event.

    Details
    2024-11-28
    President Lai meets WHA action team
    On the morning of June 1, President Lai Ching-te met with members of Taiwan’s World Health Assembly (WHA) action team. In remarks, President Lai stated that standing on the front lines, the team fought for the human right to health for both Taiwan and the world. He also thanked the international community for their support for Taiwan. The president said that Taiwan is an indispensable member of the international community when it comes to ensuring global health security. In addition, he said that one of the new government’s goals is to create a healthier Taiwan, as we want our people to live longer and healthier, and that we want to leverage Taiwan’s strengths in public health and medicine. He said we will continue to deepen our partnerships with other countries as we build an even more resilient global public health system, and that a healthy Taiwan will help make the world a better place. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I would like to warmly welcome our partners from the WHA action team back from Geneva, and express my appreciation for your hard work and efforts. Standing on the front lines, you fought for the human right to health for both Taiwan and the world, and we thank you for giving it your all. Your flight only just arrived at 7 a.m., but I can see that everyone is still in high spirits. You have truly put in your heart for Taiwan, and once again, I thank you all. It is regrettable that at this year’s WHA, constrained by political factors, a proposal item for Taiwan to join as an observer was not included in the agenda yet again. However, the hard work of our WHA action team over the years has already borne fruit. Last year, the Ministry of Health and Welfare signed MOUs with the public health agencies of the Czech Republic, Canada, and the United Kingdom, and bilateral talks this year included discussion on substantive cooperation. The bilateral talks carried out by our action team in Geneva were not only more numerous this year, but also involved officials of even higher level. The team also held professional forums addressing important issues of the WHA in cooperation with various medical and health organizations. This is all proof of Taiwan’s contribution toward global public health and the human right to health. The steps we take for Taiwan to participate in world health affairs will not falter. Support for Taiwan from the international community grows stronger year by year. This year, 26 member states of the World Health Organization and the European Union, which is an observer, directly or indirectly voiced their support for Taiwan’s participation in the WHA. Their support reaffirms that Taiwan is an indispensable member of the international community when it comes to ensuring global health security. Health knows no borders. Health is a basic human right. One of the new government’s goals is to create a healthier Taiwan. We want our people to live longer and healthier. And we also want to leverage Taiwan’s strengths in public health and medicine, as we deepen our cooperation with other countries and work together to advance the health of humankind and global sustainable development. I want to thank the member states for their support for Taiwan. I also want to once again thank the members of the WHA action team and our many friends, both here and outside of Taiwan, for their hard work on this issue. Moving forward, we will continue to deepen our partnerships with other countries as we build an even more resilient global public health system. So just as democratic Taiwan continues to shine its light upon the world, a healthy Taiwan will help make the world a better place. On that note, let us keep working together toward these goals. After President Lai concluded his remarks, Minister of Health and Welfare Chiu Tai-yuan (邱泰源) presented a photo collage to show President Lai some of the highlights of the action team’s activities in Geneva.

    Details
    2024-11-28
    President Tsai meets World Medical Association President Lujain Alqodmani
    On the morning of December 11, President Tsai Ing-wen met with a delegation led by World Medical Association (WMA) President Dr. Lujain Alqodmani. In remarks, President Tsai thanked the WMA for its many years of speaking up for Taiwan on the international stage. President Tsai emphasized that we will continue to show how Taiwan can help by actively contributing to global health security. The president expressed her belief that with Taiwan’s achievements and capabilities in medicine and public health, we can join forces with many more countries to optimize the medical environment and make a more positive impact on the health of humankind. A translation of President Tsai’s remarks follows: I extend a warm welcome to President Alqodmani, who is visiting Taiwan once again. I am also glad to see WMA Secretary General Dr. Otmar Kloiber. Both of you are well acquainted with Taiwan and are our close friends. You have demonstrated your support through concrete actions. I would like to express my deepest thanks. The WMA is the largest international NGO that represents physicians. You staunchly defend health security and the rights and interests of physicians around the world with professionality and impartiality. I want to take this opportunity to thank the WMA on behalf of the Taiwanese people for its longstanding support of our participation in the World Health Organization (WHO) and World Health Assembly (WHA). This May, for example, our WHA action team collaborated with the WMA to hold a forum on emergency medicine in Geneva in the lead-up to the WHA. We will continue to show how Taiwan can help by actively contributing to global health security. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Taiwan demonstrated the resilience of its public healthcare system and shared its experiences in combating the pandemic with the world. We have also shared our medical services and construction capabilities, two areas in which we excel, with our diplomatic allies to help enrich the lives of their people and enhance the quality and environment of healthcare. We hope that President Alqodmani and Secretary General Kloiber will continue to speak up for Taiwan on the international stage. I believe that with Taiwan’s achievements and capabilities in medicine and public health, we can join forces with many more countries to optimize the medical environment. Together, we can make a more positive impact on the health of humankind. I also want to thank the Taiwan Medical Association (TMA) for serving as a bridge of communication between the government and the medical community, which helps us in implementing many of our policies. We look forward to the TMA further expanding exchanges and cooperation between the medical and international communities. I am looking forward to exchanging ideas with you today. Your visit to Taiwan will no doubt lay the groundwork for further cooperation. I wish you all a successful trip.

    Details
    2025-02-14
    President Lai holds press conference following high-level national security meeting
    On the morning of February 14, President Lai Ching-te convened the first high-level national security meeting of the year, following which he held a press conference. In remarks, President Lai announced that in this new year, the government will prioritize special budget allocations to ensure that Taiwan’s defense budget exceeds 3 percent of GDP. He stated that the government will also continue to reform national defense, reform our legal framework for national security, and advance our economic and trade strategy of being rooted in Taiwan while expanding globally. The president also proposed clear-cut national strategies for Taiwan-US relations, semiconductor industry development, and cross-strait relations. President Lai indicated that he instructed the national security and administrative teams to take swift action and deliver results, working within a stable strategic framework and according to the various policies and approaches outlined. He also instructed them to keep a close watch on changes in the international situation, seize opportunities whenever they arise, and address the concerns and hope of the citizens with concrete actions. He expressed hope that as long as citizens remain steadfast in their convictions, are willing to work hand in hand, stand firm amidst uncertainty, and look for ways to win within changing circumstances, Taiwan is certain to prevail in the test of time yet again. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: First, I would like to convey my condolences for the tragic incident which occurred at the Shin Kong Mitsukoshi department store in Taichung, which resulted in numerous casualties. I have instructed Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) to lead the relevant central government agencies in assisting Taichung’s municipal government with actively resolving various issues regarding the incident. It is my hope that these issues can be resolved efficiently. Earlier today, I convened this year’s first high-level national security meeting. I will now report on the discussions from the meeting to all citizens. 2025 is a year full of challenges, but also a year full of hope. In today’s global landscape, the democratic world faces common threats posed by the convergence of authoritarian regimes, while dumping and unfair competition from China undermine the global economic order. A new United States administration was formed at the beginning of the year, adopting all-new strategies and policies to address challenges both domestic and from overseas. Every nation worldwide, including ours, is facing a new phase of changes and challenges. In face of such changes, ensuring national security, ensuring Taiwan’s indispensability in global supply chains, and ensuring that our nation continues to make progress amidst challenges are our top priorities this year. They are also why we convened a high-level national security meeting today. At the meeting, the national security team, the administrative team led by Premier Cho, and I held an in-depth discussion based on the overall state of affairs at home and abroad and the strategies the teams had prepared in response. We summed up the following points as an overall strategy for the next stage of advancing national security and development. First, for overall national security, so that we can ensure the freedom, democracy, and human rights of the Taiwanese people, as well as the progress and development of the nation as we face various threats from authoritarian regimes, Taiwan must resolutely safeguard national sovereignty, strengthen self-sufficiency in national defense, and consolidate national defense. Taiwan must enhance economic resilience, maintain economic autonomy, and stand firm with other democracies as we deepen our strategic partnerships with like-minded countries. As I have said, “As authoritarianism consolidates, democratic nations must come closer in solidarity!” And so, in this new year, we will focus on the following three priorities: First, to demonstrate our resolve for national defense, we will continue to reform national defense, implement whole-of-society defense resilience, and prioritize special budget allocations to ensure that our defense budget exceeds 3 percent of GDP. Second, to counter the threats to our national security from China’s united front tactics, attempts at infiltration, and cognitive warfare, we will continue with the reform of our legal framework for national security and expand the national security framework to boost societal resilience and foster unity within. Third, to seize opportunities in the restructuring of global supply chains and realignment of the economic order, we will continue advancing our economic and trade strategy of being rooted in Taiwan while expanding globally, strengthening protections for high-tech, and collaborating with our friends and allies to build supply chains for global democracies. Everyone shares concern regarding Taiwan-US relations, semiconductor industry development, and cross-strait relations. For these issues, I am proposing clear-cut national strategies. First, I will touch on Taiwan-US relations. Taiwan and the US have shared ideals and values, and are staunch partners within the democratic, free community. We are very grateful to President Donald Trump’s administration for their continued support for Taiwan after taking office. We are especially grateful for the US and Japan’s joint leaders’ statement reiterating “the importance of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait as an indispensable element of security and prosperity for the international community,” as well as their high level of concern regarding China’s threat to regional security. In fact, the Democratic Progressive Party government has worked very closely with President Trump ever since his first term in office, and has remained an international partner. The procurement of numerous key advanced arms, freedom of navigation critical for security and stability in the Taiwan Strait, and many assisted breakthroughs in international diplomacy were made possible during this time. Positioned in the first island chain and on the democratic world’s frontline countering authoritarianism, Taiwan is willing and will continue to work with the US at all levels as we pursue regional stability and prosperity, helping realize our vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific. Although changes in policy may occur these next few years, the mutual trust and close cooperation between Taiwan and Washington will steadfastly endure. On that, our citizens can rest assured. In accordance with the Taiwan Relations Act and the Six Assurances, the US announced a total of 48 military sales to Taiwan over the past eight years amounting to US$26.265 billion. During President Trump’s first term, 22 sales were announced totaling US$18.763 billion. This greatly supported Taiwan’s defensive capabilities. On the foundation of our close cooperation with the past eight years’ two US administrations, Taiwan will continue to demonstrate our determination for self-defense, accelerate the bolstering of our national defense, and keep enhancing the depth and breadth of Taiwan-US security cooperation, along with all manner of institutional cooperation. In terms of bilateral economic cooperation, Taiwan has always been one of the US’s most reliable trade partners, as well as one of the most important cooperative partners of US companies in the global semiconductor industry. In the past few years, Taiwan has greatly increased both direct and indirect investment in the US. By 2024, investment surpassed US$100 billion, creating nearly 400,000 job opportunities. In 2023 and 2024, investment in the US accounted for over 40 percent of Taiwan’s overall foreign investment, far surpassing our investment in China. In fact, in 2023 and 2024, Taiwanese investment in China fell to 11 percent and 8 percent, respectively. The US is now Taiwan’s biggest investment target. Our government is now launching relevant plans in accordance with national development needs and the need to establish secure supply systems, and the Executive Yuan is taking comprehensive inventory of opportunities for Taiwan-US economic and trade cooperation. Moving forward, close bilateral cooperation will allow us to expand US investment and procurement, facilitating balanced trade. Our government will also strengthen guidance and support for Taiwanese enterprises on increasing US investment, and promote the global expansion and growth of Taiwan’s industries. We will also boost Taiwan-US cooperation in tech development and manufacturing for AI and advanced semiconductors, and work together to maintain order in the semiconductor market, shaping a new era for our strategic economic partnership. Second, the development of our semiconductor industry. I want to emphasize that Taiwan, as one of the world’s most capable semiconductor manufacturing nations, is both willing and able to address new situations. With respect to President Trump’s concerns about our semiconductor industry, the government will act prudently, strengthen communications between Taiwan and the US, and promote greater mutual understanding. We will pay attention to the challenges arising from the situation and assist businesses in navigating them. In addition, we will introduce an initiative on semiconductor supply chain partnerships for global democracies. We are willing to collaborate with the US and our other democratic partners to develop more resilient and diversified semiconductor supply chains. Leveraging our strengths in cutting-edge semiconductors, we will form a global alliance for the AI chip industry and establish democratic supply chains for industries connected to high-end chips. Through international cooperation, we will open up an entirely new era of growth in the semiconductor industry. As we face the various new policies of the Trump administration, we will continue to uphold a spirit of mutual benefit, and we will continue to communicate and negotiate closely with the US government. This will help the new administration’s team to better understand how Taiwan is an indispensable partner in the process of rebuilding American manufacturing and consolidating its leadership in high-tech, and that Taiwan-US cooperation will benefit us both. Third, cross-strait relations. Regarding the regional and cross-strait situation, Taiwan-US relations, US-China relations, and interactions among Taiwan, the US, and China are a focus of global attention. As a member of the international democratic community and a responsible member of the region, Taiwan hopes to see Taiwan-US relations continue to strengthen and, alongside US-China relations, form a virtuous cycle rather than a zero-sum game where one side’s gain is another side’s loss. In facing China, Taiwan will always be a responsible actor. We will neither yield nor provoke. We will remain resilient and composed, maintaining our consistent position on cross-strait relations: Our determination to safeguard our national sovereignty and protect our free and democratic way of life remains unchanged. Our efforts to maintain peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, as well as our willingness to work alongside China in the pursuit of peace and mutual prosperity across the strait, remain unchanged. Our commitment to promoting healthy and orderly exchanges across the strait, choosing dialogue over confrontation, and advancing well-being for the peoples on both sides of the strait, under the principles of parity and dignity, remains unchanged. Regarding the matters I reported to the public today, I have instructed our national security and administrative teams to take swift action and deliver results, working within a stable strategic framework and according to the various policies and approaches I just outlined. I have also instructed them to keep a close watch on changes in the international situation, seize opportunities whenever they arise, and address the concerns and hope of the citizens with concrete actions. My fellow citizens, over the past several years, Taiwan has weathered a global pandemic and faced global challenges, both political and economic, arising from the US-China trade war and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Through it all, Taiwan has persevered; we have continued to develop our economy, bolster our national strength, and raise our international profile while garnering more support – all unprecedented achievements. This is all because Taiwan’s fate has never been decided by the external environment, but by the unity of the Taiwanese people and the resolve to never give up. A one-of-a-kind global situation is creating new strategic opportunities for our one-of-a-kind Taiwanese people, bringing new hope. Taiwan’s foundation is solid; its strength is great. So as long as everyone remains steadfast in their convictions, is willing to work hand in hand, stands firm amidst uncertainty, and looks for ways to win within changing circumstances, Taiwan is certain to prevail in the test of our time yet again, for I am confident that there are no difficulties that Taiwan cannot overcome. Thank you.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Transcript: Governor Hochul is a Guest on CNN’s “OutFront”

    Source: US State of New York

    arlier today, Governor Hochul was a guest on CNN’s “OutFront” with Erin Burnett.

    AUDIO: The Governor’s remarks are available in audio form here.

    Erin Burnett, CNN: So now let’s go out front to the Democratic Governor of New York, Kathy Hochul. And Governor, so much to talk to you about, but obviously this is an issue now at the center of things for New York too, because you had been saying that you wanted to hire federal workers who, perhaps, had been part of this purge. So what’s your reaction when you hear this federal judge saying that what OPM is doing — at least at this point in those mass firings of workers who had only been in their jobs for one or two years, shorter term — is unlawful?

    Governor Hochul: Two reactions: One is, I’m not surprised. And number two, thank God we have a judiciary as a check on the overreach of power that we’re witnessing by the hour by Donald Trump and Elon Musk.

    So yes, this is an important decision that says, “You went too far.” But I think that we’ll be seeing a lot more cases where the judges say, “This has never happened in the history of the universe,” and this is the new world we’re in. They don’t believe in laws. They don’t believe in the system of government we have. They don’t believe in states rights. They’re just like, bulldozing through it all, and thank God there’s a judge who stood up to them today.

    Erin Burnett, CNN: Well, I mean, the words do stand out, “Never any statute in the history of the universe.” Big statement to say I suppose, but that’s an existential question. Alright, so you also posted and this is what I wanted to get at. You posted in part, “Forget what DOGE says, New York wants YOU.” Alright, caps on the “YOU”. And you know, I spoke this week to one of those probationary workers who worked at Bronx Veterans Hospital. His name is Luke Graziani, 20 year veteran, four tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, fired from his job at the Bronx Hospital on Valentine’s Day. He goes in at the a.m., has the email, “You’re gone.” And he had five weeks until he wasn’t probationary, right? So it’s just very capricious in terms of how it happened. Let me just play some of what he said about what happened.

    Luke Graziani, Veteran: It’s surreal to think that, had this come five weeks later, I would have had no issues whatsoever. I’m very privileged to have the job that I have, or had. I’d very much like to get back to it. I think no one deserves a job, but if they’re willing to, you know, raise their right hand and swear the oath and become a federal service employee, I think that they have every right.

    Erin Burnett, CNN: So when you post you know, “Forget what DOGE says, New York wants YOU.” What does that mean for Luke?

    Governor Hochul: What that means is this: This administration loves to say, “You’re fired,” because they think they’re living in a game show once again. This is not a silly game called “The Apprentice.” These are real people’s lives. People like Luke — who works hard — he lives in Queens. He thought he had a job taking care of veterans and he’s a veteran himself.

    He served in Iraq and Afghanistan four times. These are the heroes. You know what they get from this administration? Instead of, “Thank you for your service,” they get, “You’re fired.” So I said, “These are the people who want to be part of our state workforce.” So not, “You’re fired,” but, “You’re hired.” So we set up a database. We want people to take a look at it. We have a shortage of state workers. We need more people to work. We need people that work in IT. We need people who want to be guards. We want to — we have people that can work in so many areas. But we respect public service in our state. We don’t denigrate it and treat these people like they’re nothing.

    And collateral damage to the buzzsaw of Elon Musk. This has to stop. But not only that, but they’re providing services to our seniors and taking care of programs. They keep people safe. They keep our skies safe. They’re researching ways to solve for bird flu. They’re helping us find cures for cancer. We have to honor their service. And right here in the State of New York, that’s exactly what we plan to do.

    Erin Burnett, CNN: Alright, so, let me ask you about some protests here in New York. And I know you’ve been obviously in the City all day. There were protesters demanding you use your powers, which you have as the Governor, to remove New York Mayor Eric Adams from office.

    One sign you see there, “Governor Hochul fire him,” and, “Shame on you Mayor Adams.” And another one says, claims, “Adams is Trump’s puppet.” And look, these are protests that came just a few days after you said you weren’t going to do that at the time. You had the option, you said, “I’m not going to get rid of him,” even amidst all of this consternation that he is doing Trump’s bidding on immigration, in exchange for those charges being dropped. He denies that that is a quid pro quo, but when you see these protests and you think about this situation, do you have any regrets? Do you think you should have gotten rid of him?

    Governor Hochul: No. People know this about me: There are often pressure campaigns that try to get me to do something I don’t want to do. It always backfires.

    I will stand up to protest when I believe I’m doing something that is right for the people of the State. And in this case, it is an extraordinary power that a governor has to be able to say, “I think you violated the public trust and you should go.” What I’m basically doing is overturning the will of New Yorkers who selected the Mayor to govern the City, and I’m trying to put in safeguards so people have a better sense—

    Erin Burnett, CNN: Now, if there weren’t primaries in June, would you feel differently?

    Governor Hochul: We have primaries in June. But also — overturning an election, unlike what the Trump administration would do — I have to respect the rule of law. I respect our democracy. But I’m keeping an eye on this.

    I understand the protests. I really do. I know why they’re frustrated. And they’re worried about undue influence from the Trump Administration, who’s trying so hard, trying so hard to tell me what to do, tell the Mayor what to do; try to tell all of us what to do. But we have to stand up to him, now more than ever and say, “No, you’re not going to boss us around. We’re New Yorkers.”

    Erin Burnett, CNN: Are you going to win on the congestion pricing? I mean, you went in, you made a presentation, you said you put it in his language. And, he says he wants to end the congestion pricing, which has reduced traffic. You have Broadway sales up, you have foot traffic up, you have businesses doing better. I mean, you’ve got numbers on your side.

    Governor Hochul: Yes, we do.

    Erin Burnett, CNN: He said he doesn’t care.

    Governor Hochul: It’s extraordinary to me that the President of the United States, who has a lot of other things on his plate, is focused on the Governor’s traffic policies in the City of New York. I mean, go focus on something else. This is for us to determine. This is part of our self determination as states. This was voted on by duly elected representatives of the people of New York, and you can’t overturn it without a fight from me. And that’s what we’re heading into. I believe we’ll be successful in the courts, and we’ll see what happens after that.

    If they want to work with me on helping fund new architecture and new infrastructure, let’s do Penn Station. Let’s do the Second Avenue subway. Let’s do the Interborough Express, which will connect Queens and Brooklyn for the first time. I’ve got so many great ideas that they can work with me on, but don’t shut down something that’s working just because you want to. Come on. It’s working. The data proves it. And the people of New York — many who hated it at first — are coming around saying life is better here now.

    Erin Burnett, CNN: Alright. Well, Governor Hochul, very much appreciate your time. And thank you so much.

    Governor Hochul: Thank you.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Political fighting over Chinese warships misses the point: Australia’s navy is no match for China’s built-up force

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Richard Dunley, Senior Lecturer in History and Maritime Strategy, UNSW Sydney

    Over the past few days, the Australian media has been dominated by the activities of the Chinese navy’s Task Group 107 as it has progressed south along the Australian coast and conducted a series of live-fire exercises.

    Much of the discussion has been rather breathless in nature, with accusations of “gunboat diplomacy” being bandied around.

    The live-fire exercises have also dominated the Australian political debate. Amid all the accusations, the fact that these exercises are routine and entirely legal has gotten lost.

    The Australian government was correct to lodge a complaint with its Chinese counterpart when one of these exercises disrupted civilian aviation. But the overall response has been an extraordinary overreaction.

    There is no indication the Chinese vessels undertook any surface-to-air exercises, and it remains unclear whether the initial firings involved medium-calibre weapons or smaller arms.

    Either way, the facts suggest the disruption from the Chinese vessels was caused by inexperience or poor procedure, rather than some more nefarious purpose.

    This is not to suggest the People’s Liberation Army-Navy’s (PLA-N) deployment is unimportant, but as happens all too often, the Australian public debate is missing the wood for the trees.

    While a number of retired naval officers have publicly played down the significance of the live-fire exercises, these voices have generally been drowned out by the politicisation of the issue. This highlights the failure of the Department of Defence to communicate effectively to the public.

    In other countries, including the United States, senior officers are given far more leeway to make public statements in matters within their purview.

    Had Vice Admiral Mark Hammond, the chief of navy, or Vice Admiral Justin Jones, the chief of Joint Operations, been empowered to explain how live-fire exercises are routine and are commonly carried out by Australian warships on deployment in our region, we may have avoided this unhelpful stoush.

    The remarkable growth of the Chinese navy

    The real significance of the activities of Task Group 107 is the way it has revealed the very different trajectories of the PLA-N and its Royal Australian Navy counterpart.

    The task group is made up of a Type 055 Renhai-class cruiser, a Type 054A Jiangkai II frigate and a Type 903 Fuchi-class replenishment ship. This is a powerful force that symbolises the rapid development of the Chinese navy.

    The Renhai-class cruisers are acknowledged to be some of the most capable surface combatants currently in operation.

    They are 13,000 tonnes in size and are armed with 112 vertical-launch system (VLS) missile tubes. The Australian navy’s premier surface warship, the Hobart-class destroyer, is just 7,000 tonnes and has 48 VLS missiles cells.

    These are very crude metrics, but it would be foolhardy to assume Chinese technology is dramatically inferior to that of Australia or its allies. Similarly, China’s Type 054A frigates are comparable to the general-purpose frigates that Australia is currently trying to acquire.

    Since 2020, China has commissioned eight Type 055 cruisers, adding to a fleet of more than 30 Type 52C and Type 52D destroyers and an even greater number of Type 054A frigates.

    This build-up vastly exceeds that of any other navy globally. Chinese shipyards are churning out the same combat power of the entire Royal Australian Navy every couple of years.

    Until recently, we have seen remarkably little of this naval capability in our region. A PLA-N task force operated off the northeast coast of Australia in 2022. Last year, a similar force was in the South Pacific. Most analysts expect to see more Chinese vessels in Australia’s region over the coming years.

    One significant limitation on Chinese overseas deployments has been the PLA-N’s small force of replenishment ships, which resupply naval vessels at sea.

    As the PLA-N’s capabilities continue to grow and priorities shift, this appears to be changing. A recent US Department of Defence report noted that China was expected to build further replenishment ships “to support its expanding long-duration combatant ship deployments”.

    Australia struggling to keep up

    In response to the Chinese build-up, Australia is investing heavily to rebuild its navy. However, this process has been slow and beset by problems.

    Indeed, this week, the Defence Department revealed that the selection of the design for the new Australian frigate has been postponed into 2026.

    This leaves the navy with a limited fleet of just 11 surface combatants, the majority of which are small and ageing Anzac-class frigates.

    The arrival of the Chinese task group also sheds an unfavourable light on other recent decisions.

    The cuts to the Arafura-class offshore patrol vessel program make sense from some perspectives. But these ships would have provided additional options to persistently shadow foreign warships in Australian areas of interest.

    Similarly, the growing need of Australian ships to escort Chinese vessels in our region will place an increasing strain on Australian replenishment capability.

    At present, both of Australia’s resupply ships are out of service. Additional capacity was also cut from the recent defence budget.

    The activities of the Chinese task force are not some aggressive move of gunboat diplomacy in our region.

    In many ways, this sensationalist messaging has distracted from a much bigger issue. The presence of Chinese naval ships in our region is going to be a fact of life. And due to failures from both sides of politics over the past 15 years, Australia’s navy is ill-equipped to meet that challenge.

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

    – ref. Political fighting over Chinese warships misses the point: Australia’s navy is no match for China’s built-up force – https://theconversation.com/political-fighting-over-chinese-warships-misses-the-point-australias-navy-is-no-match-for-chinas-built-up-force-251039

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: China leads global effort in elderly-care robots

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    The International Electrotechnical Commission has released a global standard for elderly-care robots, designed to guide the healthy development of the elderly-care robotics industry.
    The standard, led by China during its formulation, provides technical benchmarks for product design, manufacturing, testing, and certification of such robots, according to a statement from the State Administration for Market Regulation released on Thursday.
    To meet the multifaceted needs of elderly users in daily living and health care, the standard outlines requirements for elderly-care robots in areas such as accessibility, reliability, energy efficiency, and noise control.
    It also puts forward technical requirements for health monitoring services, communication support, activity assistance, as well as information and data management.
    The issuance of this standard is expected to guide manufacturers to accurately focus on the characteristics and needs of the elderly in product design and enhance the quality of robot products, so as to nurture new growth drivers of the elderly-care robotics industry, the administration noted.
    China has issued policies to encourage the development of smart elderly care amid challenges from the aging population. The latest data shows that by the end of 2024, the population aged 60 and above in the country was 310 million, accounting for 22 percent of its total population. It is predicted that this percentage will further rise to 30 percent by 2035, with the elderly population to exceed 400 million by then.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: LIULI artworks merge Chinese tradition with green innovation

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    A brand new collection of LIULI Crystal Art, “One Thought, One Universe,” has become a major attraction at South Coast Plaza in Orange County, Southern California.

    Loretta H. Yang, a renowned LIULI artist and founder of LIULI Crystal Art, introduces her creation at South Coast Plaza in Orange County, California, the United States, on Feb. 25, 2025. A brand new collection of LIULI Crystal Art, “One Thought, One Universe,” has become a major attraction at South Coast Plaza in Orange County, Southern California. (Photo by Zeng Hui/Xinhua)

    The collection, consisting of elegant crystal glass-topped tables, exemplifies the harmonious blend of artistic sophistication with environmental awareness.

    The pieces are crafted using repurposed casting residual materials, employing green production methods that streamline manufacturing processes, minimize waste, and reduce carbon emissions.

    “By incorporating green production methods, LIULI artworks achieve an impressive balance between traditional Chinese art, sustainability, and the reduction of our carbon footprint,” said Loretta H. Yang, a renowned LIULI artist and founder of LIULI Crystal Art, in a recent interview with Xinhua.

    “LIULI” refers to a time-honored technique of ancient Chinese crystal glass craftsmanship. The glass’s unique crystalline nature interacts with light, creating a dazzling contrast of shadow and illumination. The term “LIULI” is derived from China’s Han Dynasty (202 BC – 220 AD) and symbolizes the rich heritage of Chinese glass art.

    At Bloomingdale’s in South Coast Plaza, the LIULI collection is infused with vibrant colors, capturing the spirit of Chinese culture and offering a joyful and elegant experience to visitors.

    In the interview, Yang explained how Chinese culture serves as the foundational source of inspiration for her works.

    She emphasized that the cultural richness and symbolic meanings of traditional Chinese elements are integral to her creative process.

    The art pieces are adorned with totems representing various aspects of Chinese philosophy on life and culture, incorporating auspicious symbols such as dragons, phoenixes, Qilin, and lotus flowers. They also reflect the poetic imagery of Tang and Song dynasties.

    “The essence of Chinese culture is a crucial source of inspiration,” Yang noted. “It is a vast and abundant resource that continuously nourishes our creative endeavors.”

    A visitor views a Liuli artwork at South Coast Plaza in Orange County, California, the United States, on Feb. 25, 2025. A brand new collection of LIULI Crystal Art, “One Thought, One Universe,” has become a major attraction at South Coast Plaza in Orange County, Southern California. (Photo by Zeng Hui/Xinhua)

    SHARING CHINESE STORIES WITH WESTERN AUDIENCES

    LIULI artwork collections have attracted lots of visitors at South Coast Plaza, especially Americans who are drawn to works featuring elements of nature such as flowers, animals, and the vibrant imagery of Chinese cultural symbols.

    “Dragons, phoenixes, and the twelve Chinese zodiac animals are particularly popular among Western audiences,” Yang said.

    The zodiac-themed pieces, in particular, draw significant attention around the Lunar New Year, a time of cultural celebration.

    Yang emphasized the importance of sharing Chinese stories through art, aiming to build a bridge between cultures. “Each LIULI piece carries a core message of love. Every creation is unique, with its own story to tell. Each work comes with a dedicated poem, telling its story, imparting blessings, and establishing a connection between the artist and the viewer,” Yang explained.

    “We hope to showcase the charm of Chinese art and help foreign audiences understand Chinese culture through the poems and narratives behind each artwork,” she added.

    Founded in 1987 and expanding into the U.S. market in 1999, LIULI Crystal Art has grown from a modest workshop into one of Asia’s leading creators of crystal art.

    Yang said the company has developed strong partnerships with prominent American museums and galleries. “Through collaborative exhibitions and cultural exchanges, LIULI Crystal Art is committed to sharing the values of Chinese culture and fostering meaningful dialogue between East and West.”

    A visitor takes photos of a Liuli artwork at South Coast Plaza in Orange County, California, the United States, on Feb. 25, 2025. A brand new collection of LIULI Crystal Art, “One Thought, One Universe,” has become a major attraction at South Coast Plaza in Orange County, Southern California. (Photo by Zeng Hui/Xinhua)

    INSPIRING SUSTAINABLE INNOVATION

    In response to the challenges posed by global warming, LIULI Crystal Art continues to integrate sustainability into its design process, prioritizing waste reduction and increasing the recycling of materials.

    “We place a strong emphasis on environmental consciousness in our design process,” Yang told Xinhua. “Our team is committed to adopting green production techniques that reduce manufacturing processes and repurpose leftover materials, aiming to improve carbon emissions and contribute to sustainable development.”

    One of the company’s iconic pieces, the Earth Table, reduces carbon emissions by 341 kilograms — equivalent to the carbon absorption of two camphor trees over 36 feet tall for a year, according to Yang.

    Building on over 30 years of revitalizing the ancient art of pâte de verre, LIULI Crystal Art continues to evolve this Asian craft with modern technology, producing artworks that honor China’s cultural heritage while embracing sustainable practices, Yang said. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Healthcare Safety – Staffing shortages putting patient safety at risk at Nelson Hospital

    Source: Association of Salaried Medical Specialists

    Nelson Hospital is operating with no medical registrar today as ongoing staffing shortages put patients and clinicians at risk, the Association of Salaried Medical Specialists says.
    An email sent to clinicians earlier today (February 28) advised between 1600 and 2200 the hospital will have no medical registrar. As a result, the hospital’s rapid response team – who handle acute deterioration of patients – will be supported by a newly graduated doctor, no ward consultations will be possible and there are likely be flow-on delays to the functioning of the emergency department.
    “Compounding the situation further is that the emergency department was also short staffed with no second senior medical officer on duty between 2pm and 4pm,” ASMS Executive Director Sarah Dalton says.
    “This is due to the hospital’s refusal to employ enough staff to cover absences.”
    Nelson’s emergency department is staffed to see 70 to 80 patients a day, but they regularly see more than 100 a day.
    Dalton says staffing issues at Nelson Hospital have been an issue for years and have been left unaddressed by DHB hospital management and now Te Whatu Ora.
    “We have advocated for years to get staffing to safe levels, yet the people of Nelson still have an under-staffed hospital,” she says.
    “On January 30 we held a crisis meeting with the regional Deputy Chief Executive Martin Keogh and still nothing has been done.
    Our President, Dr Katie Ben, has also raised the matter directly with Minister of Health Simeon Brown. She says staffing shortages have become “business as usual”.
    “Local managers, regional managers and central government are compromising patient care through continued inaction to resolve the healthcare worker shortages. It is unfair, unsafe and unacceptable.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Lifestyle and Health – Making Exercise More Affordable Could Transform Health in Aotearoa

    Source: Exercise New Zealand

    A new report reveals that reducing the cost of exercise facilities could significantly increase physical activity levels in Aotearoa, delivering major health and economic benefits. The 2024 HFA-Portas Price Elasticity Report identifies affordability as the primary barrier preventing more New Zealanders from joining gyms, despite clear evidence of the health benefits of structured exercise.

    Physical inactivity is a growing public health crisis, contributing to preventable chronic diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and obesity. Alarmingly, the report finds that 53.5% of New Zealanders fail to meet the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommended physical activity levels, placing an increasing strain on the healthcare system. Childhood and adolescent obesity rates have also reached unprecedented levels, elevating the risk of lifelong health issues.

    Key Findings from the Report:

    • 67% of non-gym members cite affordability as their main reason for not joining.
    • Gym users are 54% more likely to meet WHO exercise guidelines than non-users.
    • A 10% reduction in membership fees could encourage up to 291,000 more Kiwis to join structured exercise facilities.

    Increased participation could:

    • Prevent 7,600 cases of chronic disease annually.
    • Save 1,600 disability-adjusted life years (DALYs).
    • Generate $148 million in annual health savings.
    • Improve life satisfaction for 35,000 people and enhance community trust for 33,700.
    • Stimulate $209 million in additional consumer spending.
    • Create 4,500+ new jobs in the exercise industry.

    Richard Beddie, CEO of ExerciseNZ, says the findings present a compelling case for affordability initiatives to boost participation. “New Zealanders recognise the benefits of exercise, but for many, cost remains a barrier. This report shows that even a modest reduction in gym fees could profoundly impact our nation’s health, economy, and social wellbeing. Exercise facilities must be recognised as critical health infrastructure and supported accordingly.”

    The report’s release coincides with ExerciseNZ’s upcoming ‘Fit for Office’ initiative, where New Zealand MPs will have their physical activity levels tracked via heart rate monitors and displayed on a competitive leaderboard. “This initiative highlights that everyone, including busy MPs, can stay active and benefit from exercise,” says Beddie.

    ExerciseNZ urges policymakers, industry leaders, and community organisations to collaborate on improving affordability through potential subsidies or membership incentives. This is about more than just gyms—it’s about improving public health, reducing healthcare costs, and fostering stronger communities.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Asia Pacific – Korea Expert Jean Lee Named East-West Center’s Inaugural Presidential Chair

    Source: East-West Center

    HONOLULU (Feb. 27, 2025) – The East-West Center (EWC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Jean H. Lee as the Center’s inaugural Presidential Chair. This prestigious position is funded through the Charles Morrison Endowed Fund, made possible by a private donor in recognition of former EWC President Charles E. Morrison’s exceptional service to the Center.

    The establishment of the Presidential Chair underscores EWC’s commitment to seeking out exceptional leaders who will drive transformative discoveries and inspire innovation across the Center’s endeavors. In this role, Lee will work closely with the EWC president to pursue interdisciplinary initiatives that advance the Center’s federally mandated mission of fostering cooperative study, research, and dialogue centered on US relations in the Indo-Pacific region.

    Lee, who first joined EWC in 2023 as a visiting fellow, brings a distinguished career as an award-winning journalist, commentator, and expert on North Korea. Co-host of the Peabody Award-nominated podcast The Lazarus Heistfor the BBC World Service, Lee’s extensive experience includes her tenure as the Associated Press bureau chief for the Korean Peninsula, where she became the first American reporter to join Pyongyang’s foreign press corps. Her groundbreaking work includes opening AP’s Pyongyang bureau in 2012, producing exclusive, award-winning coverage of North Korea.
     
    Lee’s career reflects her commitment to fostering global understanding, with reporting assignments spanning Asia, the Pacific, Europe, Africa and North America. As a policy expert, she has held leadership positions at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars, where she served as director of the Hyundai Motor-Korea Foundation Center for Korean History and Public Policy, and is an active member of the Council of Korean Americans and the National Committee on North Korea. A respected analyst and sought-after speaker, she has been invited to testify before the US House Foreign Affairs Committee and speak at the Aspen Security Forum, and regularly provides analysis to major media outlets and documentaries exploring Korea issues.

    “This appointment is a testament to the importance of private philanthropic support in advancing EWC’s mission during a pivotal time,” said EWC Interim President Dr. James K. Scott. “We are grateful to the private donor whose dedicated support has enabled Center to recruit an internationally known authority of Jean Lee’s caliber as our inaugural Presidential Chair. Her experience and expertise will be vital in helping the Center fulfill our collaborative mission while rising to meet the needs of a fast-changing region and world.”

    For more information about the East-West Center and its programs, please visit www.EastWestCenter.org

    For more information about the East-West Center Foundation, please visit Give.EastWestCenter.org
     
    The EAST-WEST CENTER promotes better relations and understanding among the people and nations of the United States, Asia, and the Pacific through cooperative study, research, and dialogue. Established by the US Congress in 1960, the Center serves as a resource for information and analysis on critical issues of common concern, bringing people together to exchange views, build expertise, and develop policy options.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Foxconn breaks ground on new business headquarters in central China

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    A new business headquarters building for Foxconn, the world’s leading electronics manufacturer, broke ground in Zhengzhou, the capital of central China’s Henan Province, on Thursday.

    This move marks a significant step forward for the Taiwanese company in advancing its new strategic industry layout in the mainland market.

    The new headquarters will span over 2.67 hectares, with the first phase expected to involve an investment of approximately 1 billion yuan (about 139.39 million U.S. dollars).

    Cui Zhicheng, chairman of Foxconn Innovation Industry Development Group Co., Ltd., said that the new headquarters is expected to be the core base for the company’s development in the electric vehicle, new energy, and energy storage industries on the Chinese mainland.

    “Foxconn’s determination and confidence in investing in the Chinese mainland and Henan Province remains steadfast,” Cui said, adding that the new headquarters aims to serve as the starting point for Foxconn’s focus on emerging industries, the core of its transformation and development, as well as a crucial engine driving the company’s industrial upgrading.

    Henan and Foxconn share a deep bond. Foxconn, the principal assembler of Apple iPhones, established operations in the inland province in 2010. By the end of 2023, its Zhengzhou factory spanned around 2.8 million square meters and had recorded 12 consecutive years of growth in industrial output. Over the years, Foxconn has further expanded its footprint across Henan, setting up facilities in cities such as Jiyuan, Hebi and Zhoukou.

    The cooperation has also transformed Henan’s economy, turning the province into a global hub for intelligent terminal manufacturing. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: New silicon carbide device fab inaugurated in southwest China

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    A new 8-inch silicon carbide device manufacturing facility officially commenced operations on Thursday in southwest China’s Chongqing Municipality.

    The project, which was established in 2023 by Sanan Optoelectronics, a leading compound semiconductor company in China, and STMicroelectronics, a world leader in semiconductor solutions, is expected to achieve mass production in the fourth quarter of this year, both companies announced at the project’s inauguration ceremony.

    The new facility has a total investment of about 23 billion yuan (3.2 billion U.S. dollars) and was launched in just 16 months. It will primarily manufacture automotive-grade chips. Once fully operational, it will produce approximately 10,000 automotive-grade wafers per week, providing strong support for the development of Chongqing’s integrated circuit industry and intelligent connected new energy vehicle sector.

    In recent years, Chongqing has focused on developing its power semiconductor and integrated circuit industries. In 2024, the output value of Chongqing’s integrated circuit industry was 45.5 billion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 9.3 percent, and its power semiconductor production capacity ranked among the top three in the country. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: UN humanitarians work to improve living conditions for Gazans

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Israeli soldiers prevent displaced Palestinians in the West Bank city of Jenin from getting back to their houses in the Jenin refugee camp, on Feb. 19, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The increasing number of kitchens, water points and healthcare facilities signal continuing improvements in Gazan residents’ challenging living conditions, UN humanitarians said on Thursday.

    The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said the world body and its partners seize every opportunity to scale up the provision of life-saving aid.

    “Partners working on food security report that, as of the third week of February, some 860,000 cooked meals prepared in around 180 kitchens were being distributed daily, an increase of more than 10 percent compared to 780,000 meals in the second week of February,” OCHA said.

    The World Food Programme (WFP) reported that subsidized bread is available at 24 retail shops in the south, allowing safe access to basic staples without overcrowding. As part of daily production, WFP delivers an average of 54,000 free bread bundles to families daily. The market relies heavily on WFP wheat flour as the primary or only source of wheat flour in Gaza.

    WFP said at least four food distribution points have been re-established in North Gaza Governorate to ease the burden on families forced to travel long distances for food with increased transport costs and protection risks.

    The World Health Organization (WHO) continues to support the health response, providing supplies to three hospitals and five health partners that will serve 250,000 people across the Gaza Strip. In Gaza City, the WHO supported the expansion of the triage and emergency department capacity in Al-Shifa Hospital with tents and an additional 20 beds.

    The UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) delivered essential health kits, pediatric medicines and newborn supplies for more than 20,000 people to Al Awda Hospital in North Gaza.

    OCHA said the latest polio campaign wound up on Wednesday after reaching more than 600,000 children under 10.

    The office said work continues to improve access to water and sanitation with two water points established and expanded in the North Gaza Governorate. Two sections of water networks were also repaired to support long-term water provision to communities in Khan Younis.

    More than 100,000 students have enrolled in school following the start of the new academic year on Sunday. So far, 165 public schools across Gaza have reopened. For most students, it is their first time returning to in-person learning in 16 months.

    However, OCHA reported a dangerous picture in the West Bank. The office said Israeli military operations continue in Jenin, Tulkarm and Tubas, leading to further casualties and displacement and hindering access to healthcare, water, electricity and other critical services.

    “The situation across the West Bank is deeply alarming,” OCHA said, once again stressing that international law must be respected and civilians protected.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: US-Russia talks conclude in Istanbul

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    A vehicle carrying the Russian delegation leaves the U.S. Consulate General in Istanbul, Türkiye, on Feb. 27, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Talks between U.S. and Russian delegations on bilateral issues concluded in Istanbul on Thursday.

    The meeting, held at the U.S. Consulate General in Istanbul and conducted behind closed doors, lasted over six hours. The Russian delegation departed the premises at 4:20 p.m. local time (1320 GMT).

    No official statement was released following the discussions.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lee Introduces the Saving Privacy Act for 119th Congress

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Utah Mike Lee

    WASHINGTON – Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced the Saving Privacy Act, a bill to end government abuse of Americans’ financial information. For years, federal agencies have been overreaching in their surveillance, collecting vast amounts of personal financial data from law-abiding citizens without just cause. Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) is an original co-sponsor of the bill.

    “The federal government has no business surveilling the financial activities of millions of innocent Americans,” said Senator Lee. “The current system erodes the privacy rights of citizens, while doing little to effectively catch true financial criminals. My Saving Privacy Act ensures that Americans’ personal information is protected and that government agencies operate within the bounds of the Constitution.” 

    “Big government has no place in law-abiding Americans’ personal finances. It is a massive overreach of the government and a gross violation of their privacy,” said Senator Rick Scott. “That is why I am teaming up with Senator Lee so that we can protect Americans’ personal financials for good. Our Saving Privacy Act will allow federal agencies to go after criminals while also protecting innocent Americans’ data. This is commonsense legislation, and I am urging my colleagues to support its immediate passage.”   

    “For decades, outdated banking regulations have subjected citizens to excessive financial surveillance, compelling institutions to enforce intrusive measures that directly led to the debanking of innocent Americans spending their own money. The Saving Privacy Act offers comprehensive reforms, striking a balance that restores consumer rights, establishes sensible standards for innovators while curbing illicit activities, and reinvigorates the commitment to sound consumer financial privacy. –Yaël Ossowski, Deputy Director at the Consumer Choice Center.

    “Senator Lee has been an indefatigable leader in the effort to end the federal government’s mass surveillance of Americans financial lives. A precondition of liberty is the ability to go about your business without the government tracking your every move, and the Saving Privacy Act is an important step in the right direction. The Taxpayers Protection Alliance thanks Senator Lee for his hard work and commitment to preserving liberty and privacy.” –David Williams, Taxpayers Protection Alliance President 

    “This kind of reform restores the proper balance—as provided by the Fourth Amendment—between Americans’ privacy rights and law enforcement’s ability to gather evidence to enforce laws. It would protect individuals’ financial privacy and improve federal agencies’ abilities to prosecute criminal activity rather than sift through millions of low-value reports. This kind of reform is long overdue.” – Norbert Michel, Jennifer Schulp, and Nicholas Anthony of the Cato Institute

    Government surveillance efforts have been largely ineffective, as demonstrated by the dismal success rate of suspicious activity reports (SARs) submitted to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). In FY2023, financial institutions submitted 25.4 million SARs and currency transaction reports (CTRs), yet less than 0.3% of these reports resulted in relevant IRS-CI and FBI cases.

    In recent years, FinCEN and the FBI surveilled the financial transactions of individuals and solicited banks for information on purchases related to “Trump,” “MAGA,” firearms, and even religious texts. Meanwhile, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has quietly been constructing a centralized database, the Consolidated Audit Trail (CAT), designed to track every single stock market transaction and the personal information of millions of Americans without any congressional approval.

    Senator Lee’s bill, the Saving Privacy Act, seeks to curb these abuses and restore Fourth Amendment protections for all Americans.

    Key Provisions of the Saving Privacy Act:

    • Repeals the Bank Secrecy Act’s SAR and CTR reporting requirements while maintaining recordkeeping provisions.
    • Repeals the Corporate Transparency Act.
    • Strengthens Fourth Amendment protections, bolstering warrant requirements in the Right to Financial Privacy Act of 1978.
    • Repeals the SEC’s Consolidated Audit Trail (CAT) database.
    • Requires congressional approval for any new databases that collect personally identifiable information of U.S. citizens.
    • Prohibits the creation of a Central Bank Digital Currency.
    • Requires congressional authorization for financial regulations deemed major rules.
    • Institutes penalties for federal employees who illegally seek constitutionally protected financial information.
    • Establishes a private right of action for Americans and financial institutions harmed by illicit government activity.

    For bill text, click HERE.
    For a two-pager, click HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Minister acknowledges outgoing Chief Executive

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Associate Health Minister David Seymour has today acknowledged the resignation of Chief Executive of Pharmac Dr Sarah Fitt, and thanked her for her service.

    “I would like to thank Sarah for her work and commitment to improving medicines access over the past 12 years at Pharmac, seven spent as Chief Executive,” says Mr Seymour.

    “Since becoming Minister responsible for Pharmac I have been impressed by Sarah’s commitment to focussing Pharmac on its core role of expanding opportunities and access for patients. 

    “I acknowledge Sarah’s decision to step down from the role and thank her for her work in providing modern healthcare for New Zealanders.

    “I wish her all the very best for the future,” Mr Seymour says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: University Research – SMART Researchers Pioneer First-of-its-Kind Nanosensor for Real-Time Iron Detection in Plants

    Source: Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)

    • This is the first nanosensor capable of simultaneously detecting and differentiating between two different forms of iron, Fe(II) and Fe(III), in living plants with high spatial and temporal resolution 
    • This innovation enables real-time, non-destructive iron tracking within plant tissues across different plant species, optimising plant nutrient management, reducing fertiliser waste, and improving crop health
    • The new nanosensor also has potential applications beyond agriculture, in environmental monitoring, food safety, and health sciences, particularly in studying iron metabolism, iron deficiency, iron-related diseases in humans and animals.

    Singapore, 28 February 2025 – Researchers from the Disruptive & Sustainable Technologies for Agricultural Precision (DiSTAP) interdisciplinary research group (IRG) of Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART), MIT’s research enterprise in Singapore, in collaboration with Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory (TLL) and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), have developed a groundbreaking near-infrared (NIR) fluorescent nanosensor capable of simultaneously detecting and differentiating between iron forms – Fe(II) and Fe(III) – in living plants.

    Iron is crucial for plant health, supporting photosynthesis, respiration, and enzyme function. It primarily exists in two forms: Fe(II), which is readily available for plants to absorb and use, and Fe(III), which must first be converted into Fe(II) before plants can utilise it effectively. Traditional methods only measure total iron, missing the distinction between these forms – a key factor in plant nutrition. Distinguishing between Fe(II) and Fe(III) provides insights into iron uptake efficiency, helps diagnose deficiencies or toxicities, and enables precise fertilisation strategies in agriculture, reducing waste and environmental impact while improving crop productivity.

    This first-of-its-kind nanosensor by SMART researchers enables real-time, non-destructive monitoring of iron uptake, transport, and changes between its different forms, such as Fe(II) and Fe(III) – providing precise and detailed observations of iron dynamics. Its high spatial resolution allows precise localisation of iron in plant tissues or subcellular compartments, enabling the measuring of even minute changes in iron levels within plants – these minute changes can inform how a plant handles stress and uses nutrients.

    DiSTAP researchers develop sensors for rapid iron detection and monitoring in plants, enabling precision agriculture and sustainable crop management. Credit: SMART DiSTAP

    Traditional detection methods are destructive or limited to a single form of iron. This new technology enables the diagnosis of deficiencies and optimisation of fertilisation strategies. By identifying insufficient or excessive iron intake, adjustments can be made to enhance plant health, reduce waste, and support more sustainable agriculture. While the nanosensor was tested on spinach and bok choy, it is species-agnostic, allowing it to be applied across a diverse range of plant species without genetic modification. This capability enhances our understanding of iron dynamics in various ecological settings, providing comprehensive insights into plant health and nutrient management. As a result, it serves as a valuable tool for both fundamental plant research and agricultural applications, supporting precision nutrient management, reducing fertiliser waste, and improving crop health.

    “Iron is essential for plant growth and development, but monitoring its levels in plants has been a challenge. This breakthrough sensor is the first of its kind to detect both Fe(II) and Fe(III) in living plants with real-time, high-resolution imaging. With this technology, we can ensure plants receive the right amount of iron, improving crop health and agricultural sustainability,” said Dr Duc Thinh Khong, DiSTAP research scientist and co-lead author of the paper.
    “In enabling non-destructive real-time tracking of iron speciation in plants, this sensor opens new avenues for understanding plant iron metabolism and the implications of different iron variations for plants. Such knowledge will help guide the development of tailored management approaches to improve crop yield and more cost-effective soil fertilisation strategies,” said Dr Grace Tan, TLL Research Scientist and co-lead author of the paper.
    The research, recently published in Nano Letters and titled, “Nanosensor for Fe(II) and Fe(III) Allowing Spatiotemporal Sensing in Planta”, builds upon SMART DiSTAP’s established expertise in plant nanobionics, leveraging the Corona Phase Molecular Recognition (CoPhMoRe) platform pioneered by the Strano Lab at SMART DiSTAP and MIT. The new nanosensor features single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) wrapped in a negatively charged fluorescent polymer, forming a helical corona phase structure that interacts differently with Fe(II) and Fe(III). 
    Upon introduction into plant tissues and interaction with iron, the sensor emits distinct NIR fluorescence signals based on the iron type, enabling real-time tracking of iron movement and chemical changes.
    The CoPhMoRe technique was used to develop highly selective fluorescent responses, allowing precise detection of iron oxidation states. The NIR fluorescence of SWNTs offers superior sensitivity, selectivity, and tissue transparency while minimising interference, making it more effective than conventional fluorescent sensors. This capability allows researchers to track iron movement and chemical changes in real-time using NIR imaging. 
    “This sensor provides a powerful tool to study plant metabolism, nutrient transport, and stress responses. It supports optimised fertiliser use, reduces costs and environmental impact, and contributes to more nutritious crops, better food security, and sustainable farming practices,” said Professor Daisuke Urano, TLL Senior Principal Investigator, DiSTAP Principal Investigator, NUS Adjunct Assistant Professor, and co-corresponding author of the paper.
    “This set of sensors gives us access to an important type of signalling in plants, and a critical nutrient necessary for plants to make chlorophyll. This new tool will not just help farmers to detect nutrient deficiency but also give access to certain messages within the plant. It expands our ability to understand the plant response to its growth environment,” said Professor Michael Strano, DiSTAP Co-Lead Principal Investigator, Carbon P. Dubbs Professor of Chemical Engineering at MIT, and co-corresponding author of the paper.
    Beyond agriculture, this nanosensor holds promise for environmental monitoring, food safety, and health sciences, particularly in studying iron metabolism, iron deficiency, and iron-related diseases in humans and animals. Future research will focus on leveraging this nanosensor to advance fundamental plant studies on iron homeostasis, nutrient signaling, and redox dynamics. Efforts are also underway to integrate the nanosensor into automated nutrient management systems for hydroponic and soil-based farming and expand its functionality to detect other essential micronutrients. These advancements aim to enhance sustainability, precision, and efficiency in agriculture.
    The research is carried out by SMART, and supported by the National Research Foundation under its Campus for Research Excellence And Technological Enterprise (CREATE) programme.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI—Hagerty Joins The Story With Martha MacCallum on Fox News to Discuss Trump’s Peace Negotiations

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Tennessee Bill Hagerty

    WASHINGTON—United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and former U.S. Ambassador to Japan, today joined The Story With Martha MacCallum on Fox News to discuss President Donald Trump’s peace negotiations to end the war between Russia and Ukraine.

    *Click the photo above or here to watch*

    Partial Transcript

    Hagerty on Trump’s peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine: “I think what President Trump has done in many ways is completely shift the dynamic, Martha. He’s finding a new place and frankly, giving [President] Vladimir Putin more room to negotiate, to get to a place where President Trump wants him to be […] One thing I’d point out, Martha, is that Trump’s relationship with Putin has been quite different. You recall during Trump’s first Administration; Putin did not take aggressive actions like this. It was under [Former President Barack] Obama that Putin came in and took Crimea. It was under [Former President Joe] Biden when he came in and had the most recent invasion and launched the war in Ukraine. Things will be very different with President Trump, and I think he’s setting up the circumstances so that they will be. So, I won’t be surprised at all to see President Trump and President Putin talk. I’ve been with the two of them before, and I can say this, Martha: there’s a great deal of respect from President Putin toward President Trump. And I think President Trump is going to leverage that respect to get to a deal that’s going to be better off for all concerned. He’s been clear at the outset; he wants this carnage to come to an end in Ukraine. Ukrainian people have died. Their country has been decimated. He wants it to end. He wants it to end under terms that are more favorable to the U.S. taxpayer. I think that’s going to come clear tomorrow, and by having more U.S. investment in Ukraine, Ukraine will be more secure and in a better place going forward.”

    Hagerty on U.S. competitive advantage with a strong economic foundation: “It certainly is a way that I look at it, and I think President Trump has a similar view. A strong economic foundation is at the core of our diplomacy, a strong military presence to top that. And [when] we have [a] strong economic relationship, a strong military posture, then diplomacy is effective and it’s possible. That’s the approach that President Trump is taking. In terms of comparing it to the [Chinese Communist Party] and their Belt and Road initiative, I might take a different tack there. The CCP uses what they call Debt-trap diplomacy. They come in making very strategic investments, often ones that countries can’t handle. They often use corruption as a tool, as a weapon. I think when you look at the United States and particularly conversations President Trump and I have had directly, what we look at is providing, for example, clean U.S. LNG to other parts of the world. That is a geostrategic tool that we can use that makes everyone better off economically and also aligns our economic interests, our energy interests, and our national security interests at the same time.”

    Hagerty on economic opportunities in a deal that could benefit the U.S.: “President Trump, if anything, is a world-class negotiator. And as I said, he tries to find a position to get on different footing. He’s been trying to get President [Volodymyr] Zelensky to the table on this critical minerals deal. We had him very close, then suddenly he wasn’t there. Now we’re back where we need him to be again. And on Friday, I look forward to [seeing] this deal come forward. It may be even more than just a critical minerals deal, but President Trump has been negotiating in his own style to get Zelensky back here in the United States, signing up to a deal that’s going to be better for all parties.”

    Hagerty on the importance of U.S. production of aluminum: “Aluminum is a critical national security interest for the United States. We have aluminum interest in my home state of Tennessee. I want to see the industry stronger here. And from a national security standpoint, I’m very focused on maintaining U.S. production of aluminum.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fischer Questions Expert Witnesses on Grand Theft Cargo

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nebraska Deb Fischer

    Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, questioned expert witnesses on the importance of giving the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMSCA) authority to enforce penalties against unauthorized brokers engaged in freight fraud.

    During the hearing, Fischer questioned Chief Special Agent of the Burlington Northern and Santa Fe (BNSF) Railway Police Department Will Johnson about collaboration between local authorities and federal agencies on investigations that cross state lines.

    She also asked Principal and CEO of Tanger Logistics and Double Diamond Transport Adam Blanchard and Executive Vice President of Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association Lewie Pugh what additional tools and authorities could improve the enforcement of cargo freight fraud.

    Click the image above to watch a video of Senator Fischer’s questioning

    Click here to download audio

    Click here to download video

    Senator Fischer questions experts:

    Senator Fischer: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you, Mr. Pugh and Mr. Blanchard, for referencing my bill. I appreciate you doing that. I appreciate the support for the bill. I think it’s extremely important that we get that to move. It’s the Household Goods Shipping Consumer Protection Act that I’ve introduced with Senator Duckworth, and as you know, it would allow the FMCSA to impose those civil penalties against the unauthorized brokers, and it would require companies in the household goods sector to establish a principal place of business to prohibit fraudulent companies from skirting those existing regulations. I’d like to thank you also for bringing up suggestions on what else we can do to be able to combat this.

    It’s eye opening, the amount of money harm to companies, but also to consumers when we add all this together. So, thank you for that. Chief Johnson, in your testimony, you reference jurisdictional concerns that often arise when investigating cargo theft crimes, and I believe it’s particularly important that local and state law enforcement agencies have the support of the federal government when dealing with crimes that pertain to interstate commerce. In your experience, what is the relationship like between law enforcement and agencies like the FBI and the HSI when investigating cargo theft that crosses state lines?

    Will Johnson: Ma’am, the short answer is they are good relationships. The challenge is not necessarily with the relationships, but the capacity of organizations to be able to balance or juggle the myriad of threats that they’re faced with. Cargo theft, historically, has not risen to the same level of attention as maybe some other competing interests have for these federal entities.

    Also, it’s important to understand how those agencies prioritize the work within their AOR, or area of responsibility, and that’s largely a local decision by local executive leaderships for those agencies involved, absent some sort of national direction coming out of headquarters or the Attorney General’s office. I think for this topic, national direction either authorized by Congress for the task force that we’ve mentioned previously or prosecutorial direction coming out of the Attorney General’s Office directing all of the United States attorneys to prioritize this issue and focus resources on effective prosecutions will aid in the assistance of bringing these cases forward.

    Senator Fischer:     Thank you. You know, Mr. Blanchard, you spoke about your frustration in trying to just bring it to the attention of authorities—federal, state, I assume local as well that you were trying to work with. And when you mentioned some of your suggestions, I know Mr. Pugh wanted to chime in, so I’ll let you chime in now on what needs to be done. And it’s not, I don’t think it’s just throwing more money at being able to have more enforcement out there, necessarily. I think it’s also to be able to put some teeth in what we need to do here and just have more awareness.

    Adam Blanchard: I’d be happy to start, Senator. And again, thank you for your support of our industry and your introduction of the Household Goods Shipping Consumer Protection Act. I think that’s certainly a great first step. As I have come to understand, Senator, is currently, to piggyback off of Chief Johnson, the current threshold that’s established by the United States Sentencing Commission for the DOJ to interdict in cargo theft cases requires the instance to be at least $1.5 million in losses. So, the average loss in a cargo case is around $200,000 today. So therefore, to reach that threshold of $1.5 million is going to require law enforcement agencies to be directed to look into the continual criminal activity of these organizations to meet that threshold—or for Congress to otherwise change that and create a new directive in order for them to start pursuing these through a unified task force, which is something that we have included in the Safeguard Our Supply Chains Act, which has not been filed. But certainly, we would appreciate any member of this committee to review that bill, and the willingness to author that would be fantastic. And that would provide the coordination between agencies and law enforcement.

    And I think really, Senator, this begins with the FMCSA, and to further elaborate on Senator Young’s question earlier, in terms of the FMCSA, we have to start with them. I think to your point, Senator Fischer, throwing money at the problem, I would agree, is not the solution. I think first, we need Congress to direct FMCSA on the things that need to occur and the coordination necessary to address this very issue that we’re dealing with, they need to be able to distinguish between fraudulent businesses and legitimate businesses. DOT needs enhanced cyber capabilities and real time fraud detection tools and greater interagency collaboration with law enforcement to identify these frauds. FMCSA needs to be directed to remove fraudulent companies from the SAFER website. We rely on that heavily in order to vet companies that we work with. FMCSA needs to explicitly authorize to withhold registration from applicants who fail to provide verifications.

    Also Congress, we believe, should conduct rigorous oversight of FMCSA transition to a single USDOT number, which we believe they’re going to do in the future—or considering doing without placing undue burden on legitimate carriers. And DOT should expeditiously implement the 13 recommendations issued by the Government Accountability Office to strengthen FMCSA’s national consumer complaint database.

    And so those are things we believe that Congress could do without the necessity of additional funding in order to provide the coordinated effort necessary for law enforcement. Because we simply don’t have the tools, Senator, to be able to do the reverse IP searches to break through the cyber space in order to find who’s spoofing our emails. I have a very sophisticated IT director, and he’s great, but only law enforcement agencies have that capability.

    Lewie Pugh: I thank you, Senator Fisher, and you and Senator Duckworth on your bill. We very much appreciate that, and glad you’re trying to do something different and to help these things. It will pay dividends if we can get it across the finish line. A couple other things is this whole national consumer complaint database. It seems to be that FMCSA needs to be directed more to do something with that. From our experience and with our members—and we tell members to send these complaints, plus many other complaints that happen to them in trucking—it seems like this is where all complaints go to die at FMCSA. Usually, they hear nothing back. Or if they get anything, it’s just “Hey, thanks for letting us know.”

    Also, we’ve said for a long time, it would probably be helpful to have a different name. Most of our small business people and truckers, they don’t even realize that this is a place for them to go file a complaint because national consumer complaint database, who would think that’s a trucking complaint hotline? So that would be helpful.

    We feel FMCSA probably has enough funds to do some investigating on this. It’s just to reallocate where they’re putting, because they continually say that there’s not a safety effect to this. So that’s why they don’t have to do anything with this. But we know there is because it’s putting people out of business. It’s causing people not to be able to maintain their equipment. So there’s definitely a safety thing here. Plus, you know, who knows what happens to a trucker or something happens at gunpoint or something like that.

    And I would agree with my colleague here, FMCSA is the first line of defense on this—100 percent, they have all this information. They have everybody’s registrations and all that. And finally, I would say FMCSA needs to step back and take a long look of making the barrier of entry into being a motor carrier or a broker much harder, much stricter. We pretty much let people file for insurance, pay for it. We don’t know who these people are, have no idea if they even know what they’re doing—and maybe every 12 to 18 months, we audit them.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Wicker Leads SASC Hearing on Secretary of the Navy Nominee John Phelan

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Mississippi Roger Wicker

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today chaired a hearing reviewing the nomination of Mr. John Phelan to be Secretary of the Navy.

    In his opening statement, Chairman Wicker described the crisis of readiness and growth within the fleet even as the Navy receives increased budgetary support. These challenges, the Chairman argued, demand bold leadership to achieve better outcomes for U.S. naval strength.

    Chairman Wicker highlighted past naval leadership failures to address amphibious ship and submarine construction, ship repair, and an overall vision for future force structure.

    Phelan, an accomplished financier and business leader, met with Chairman Wicker in January to discuss his nomination. Read more about Chairman Wicker’s vision for the Navy here and here.

    Read Senator Wicker’s opening statement as delivered below.

    The hearing will come to order. The committee on Armed Services is meeting to consider the nomination of Mr. John Phelan to be Secretary of the Navy.

    Mr. Phelan has had a distinguished career in the private sector. His background showcases his ability to manage complex business deals to drive efficiency and to deliver results. Our Navy will need someone with all three of those skills and more to get our Navy back on the right track.

    The Navy is up against significant challenges, and the nominee before us can be a crucial part of that solution. We, also, my colleagues – need to be part of that solution.

    Congress, industry, and Navy leadership have all contributed to these problems. We must all work together to solve the issues facing us. We must begin by addressing the most urgent need – getting ship building back on track. Our sailors have performed admirably in combat operations, but Navy leadership has been unable to grow the fleet even as its budget has been increased.

    The Navy remains woefully short of the statutory requirement of 355 ships – the statutory requirement. Just about every major shipbuilding program is behind schedule, over budget, or irreparably off track. For years, we’ve seen significant delays. The failures are everywhere. Ford-class carriers, Virginia-class submarines, Constellation-class frigates all are behind schedule. Every year, the Navy shipbuilding plan promises future growth. In reality, we’ve only watched as the fleet diminished.

    In December 2020, the shipbuilding plan said the Navy would grow to 315 ships by 2025. Here we are in 2025, and we have only 287 ships. It’s clear that we have not gotten the job done. We have not gotten the job done. Together, we can work to fix that.

    We must stabilize shipbuilding programs, adopt commercial best practices, and incentivize the shipyards to address workforce and productivity issues in a collaborative, rather than combative manner. And we can quickly inject innovation into naval procurement, particularly on unmanned ships.

    The story of naval maintenance is no better than the story of shipbuilding. Our maintenance performance is unimpressive across ship classes. For just one example, last year, multiple amphibious ships were unable to deploy on time. Instead, they sat in the yards waiting for repairs. Sailors have been trained on fewer than half the required maintenance tasks and only have enough time to accomplish 40% of required maintenance. The reduced quality of recruits exacerbates the situation.

    This chain of events raises cost and creates schedule challenges for ship repair yards down the line. Deployments increase and the number of older ships decreases, sending the Navy into a death spiral.

     

    I’m painting a dismal picture, but an accurate picture.

    The Navy struggles to man the fleet. The previous administration paid too much attention to demographic traits, which contributed to the Navy’s failure to meet its recruiting goals. The Navy did eventually meet last year’s recruiting targets, but only by lowering standards. Last year, nearly 20% of Navy recruits were considered category IV – they tested below the 30th percentile on the military aptitude test – below the 30th percentile.

    Recruiting has improved significantly over the last few months, but the Navy must keep up this recruiting pace for the next three years to fill the estimated 20,000 vacancies on our ships today. Consistently deploying undermanned ships exhausts sailors and creates real operational risks, as the Navy knows all too well from its own accident investigations.

    The stakes are high. We face a threat environment more complex than any since World War II. Our Naval forces must be ready to operate in highly contested environments from the Western Pacific to the Atlantic, and from the North Sea to the Red Sea and beyond.

    The Navy’s role in our national security is more important than any moment since World War II at exactly the worst time the service has been beset with poor management and a lack of vision.

    I’m pleased with the nominee’s track record. He has rescued companies in distress. Our Navy is certainly in distress and needs that same kind of leadership.

    So, I look forward to hearing Mr. Phelan’s views about how to fix shipbuilding, maintenance, and recruitment in the Navy, and I now recognize ranking member Reed for his opening remarks.

    MIL OSI USA News –