NewzIntel.com

Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Top of the South floods – ongoing travel disruptions can be expected

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    With weather damage affecting critical routes across the top of the South Island, road users are warned to expect ongoing state highway closures and travel disruptions.

    Mark Owen, Regional Manager Lower North Island/Top of the South, says with the school holidays ending this weekend, people can’t expect travel to be simple or easy.

    “The fact is some routes have suffered significant damage from flooding, slips, and treefalls and won’t reopen to the public today.”

    “Our advice is, don’t queue at state highway closure points and avoid the inland route between Nelson and Murchison. If you’re travelling between the top of the South and Canterbury, use State Highway 1 and the east coast instead,” Mr Owen says.

    Nelson/Tasman

    SH6 Rocks Road

    State Highway 6 Rocks Road is not expected to reopen this weekend, and Mr Owen says it may remain closed into early next week. This will affect traffic, and delays and congestion can be expected while the closure remains in place.

    “There are multiple slip zones and a serious risk of debris falling onto the road. Until these risks are mitigated, Rocks Road will remain closed to traffic, cyclists, and pedestrians. Please, for your own safety, stay out of the closure zone.”

    “We will have a soft closure at the intersection of Russell Street, so local businesses can continue operating. Rest assured, contractors will do their best to reopen the route, but it is going to take some time,” Mr Owen says.

    SH6 Belgrove to Murchison

    Mr Owen says this route is expected to remain closed today as well.

    “Our priority here is to punch a route through for first responders and restore a connection to cut-off communities like Tapawera. After that, we will work as hard as we can to get it open to the public.”

    “There have been slips, tree falls, and flood damage along this section of the highway, and they will take time to clear,” Mr Owen says.

    SH60 Tākaka Hill

    Mr Owen says contractors are working hard to restore this route and reopen a connection to Tākaka and Golden Bay.

    “A lifeline route for first responders and emergency services is the priority, and the highway is not expected to open to the public today.”

    “There are a number of slips on the route, and these need to be inspected and assessed before the road can be safely reopened to the public,” Mr Owen says.

    Marlborough

    There is better news in Marlborough with all of the region’s highways open.

    “Contractors managed to reopen State Highway 63 from Renwick to Korere-Tophouse Road to residents and essential travel at around 12:30 pm. The diversion at Andersons Bridge, put in place after flood damage two weeks ago, has held up to the heavy rain well.”

    “Elsewhere it’s been a case of surface flooding and minor slips. Drivers can expect to see warnings in place and, with more rain forecast, they must drive to the conditions,” Mr. Owen says.

    Next steps

    While the worst of the weather has passed, Mr Owen says its effect on State Highways will be ongoing.

    “We are in response mode at the moment. Our focus is on reconnecting the network and restoring connections to cut-off communities.”

    “However, once this passes, we will shift into recovery mode. This is where we plan and design what needs to be done to fix highways and infrastructure that have been badly damaged. This will take some time to finalise, and we don’t have the details yet. When we do, we will ensure affected communities are updated,” Mr Owen says.

    More information

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Top of the South floods – ongoing travel disruptions can be expected

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    With weather damage affecting critical routes across the top of the South Island, road users are warned to expect ongoing state highway closures and travel disruptions.

    Mark Owen, Regional Manager Lower North Island/Top of the South, says with the school holidays ending this weekend, people can’t expect travel to be simple or easy.

    “The fact is some routes have suffered significant damage from flooding, slips, and treefalls and won’t reopen to the public today.”

    “Our advice is, don’t queue at state highway closure points and avoid the inland route between Nelson and Murchison. If you’re travelling between the top of the South and Canterbury, use State Highway 1 and the east coast instead,” Mr Owen says.

    Nelson/Tasman

    SH6 Rocks Road

    State Highway 6 Rocks Road is not expected to reopen this weekend, and Mr Owen says it may remain closed into early next week. This will affect traffic, and delays and congestion can be expected while the closure remains in place.

    “There are multiple slip zones and a serious risk of debris falling onto the road. Until these risks are mitigated, Rocks Road will remain closed to traffic, cyclists, and pedestrians. Please, for your own safety, stay out of the closure zone.”

    “We will have a soft closure at the intersection of Russell Street, so local businesses can continue operating. Rest assured, contractors will do their best to reopen the route, but it is going to take some time,” Mr Owen says.

    SH6 Belgrove to Murchison

    Mr Owen says this route is expected to remain closed today as well.

    “Our priority here is to punch a route through for first responders and restore a connection to cut-off communities like Tapawera. After that, we will work as hard as we can to get it open to the public.”

    “There have been slips, tree falls, and flood damage along this section of the highway, and they will take time to clear,” Mr Owen says.

    SH60 Tākaka Hill

    Mr Owen says contractors are working hard to restore this route and reopen a connection to Tākaka and Golden Bay.

    “A lifeline route for first responders and emergency services is the priority, and the highway is not expected to open to the public today.”

    “There are a number of slips on the route, and these need to be inspected and assessed before the road can be safely reopened to the public,” Mr Owen says.

    Marlborough

    There is better news in Marlborough with all of the region’s highways open.

    “Contractors managed to reopen State Highway 63 from Renwick to Korere-Tophouse Road to residents and essential travel at around 12:30 pm. The diversion at Andersons Bridge, put in place after flood damage two weeks ago, has held up to the heavy rain well.”

    “Elsewhere it’s been a case of surface flooding and minor slips. Drivers can expect to see warnings in place and, with more rain forecast, they must drive to the conditions,” Mr. Owen says.

    Next steps

    While the worst of the weather has passed, Mr Owen says its effect on State Highways will be ongoing.

    “We are in response mode at the moment. Our focus is on reconnecting the network and restoring connections to cut-off communities.”

    “However, once this passes, we will shift into recovery mode. This is where we plan and design what needs to be done to fix highways and infrastructure that have been badly damaged. This will take some time to finalise, and we don’t have the details yet. When we do, we will ensure affected communities are updated,” Mr Owen says.

    More information

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI: Papanicolaou outlines Intesa Sanpaolo’s commitment to rebuilding Ukraine

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Paola Papanicolaou, Head of Intesa Sanpaolo’s International Banks Division

    ROME, July 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — At the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Rome, Paola Papanicolaou, Head of Intesa Sanpaolo’s International Banks Division, explained the Group’s concrete commitment to Ukraine’s reconstruction, highlighting the role of Italy’s only banking group operating in the country in supporting recovery efforts through blended finance, ESG principles, and long-term investment.

    Key takeaways:

    • Intesa Sanpaolo, through its subsidiary Pravex Bank – part of the International Banks Division – is the only Italian banking group with an operational presence in Ukraine.
    • In today’s complex geopolitical landscape, prudence is a strategic choice. Intesa Sanpaolo acts responsibly, avoiding excessive risk exposure while remaining ready to support reconstruction with concrete projects as soon as conditions allow.
    • The Group actively collaborates with supranational institutions such as the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the European Investment Bank (EIB), contributing to development projects aimed at rebuilding Ukraine.
    • Rebuilding and revitalizing Ukraine’s economy requires both private capital and support from supranational financial institutions, through blended finance mechanisms. In both areas, strong international groups like Intesa Sanpaolo play a key role.
    • Stability and local development are essential. Long-term investors—like Intesa Sanpaolo—invest where conditions allow for sustained presence and growth.
    • Across the nearly 40 countries where Intesa Sanpaolo operates—including 12 countries with commercial banking branch networks—the Group works to create conditions that attract investment and foster economic resilience.
    • Wherever present, the Group promotes inclusive growth, financial education, and ESG-aligned financing. In Ukraine too, the goal is to support not only economic reconstruction but also the long-term sustainable development of local communities.
    • As one of Europe’s leading players in the transition to a low-carbon economy, Intesa Sanpaolo offers dedicated green credit lines for households and businesses, along with a growing portfolio of sustainable products—a model that can also support Ukraine’s future rebuilding efforts.

    Contact: international.media@intesasanpaolo.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/14e96349-0102-4b8f-bf93-5ef05e72a6ce

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: CEO of Iranian Engineering Company Arrested for Allegedly Shipping Sophisticated Electronics to Iran in Violation of U.S. Sanctions

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LOS ANGELES – An Iranian national and United States lawful permanent resident has been arrested on a four-count federal indictment charging him with unlawfully exporting electronics used in railway signaling and telecommunications systems from the United States to Iran, in violation of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) and the Iranian Transactions and Sanctions Regulations (ITSR).

    Bahram Mohammad Ostovari, 66, a resident of Tehran, Iran, and Santa Monica, was arrested Thursday afternoon upon his arrival at Los Angeles International Airport.

    Ostovari is charged with one count of conspiracy to violate the International Emergency Economic Powers Act and three counts of violating the IEEPA.

    He pleaded not guilty to the charges at his arraignment today in United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles. A federal magistrate judge ordered him released on $1.3 million bond and scheduled a September 2 trial date.

    According to the indictment unsealed today, Ostovari is the founder and CEO of a Tehran-based engineering company – identified in the indictment as “Company A” – that supplied signaling and communications systems to Iran and its government, including on projects for the Islamic Republic of Iran Railways. From at least May 2018 to July 2025, Ostovari and his co-conspirators obtained and shipped sophisticated computer processors, railway signaling equipment, and other electronics and electronic components to Company A in Iran. Many of these items were controlled under federal regulations, and their export to Iran without a license was prohibited.

    To perpetrate his illegal export scheme, Ostovari used two front companies he controlled in the UAE – MH-SYS FZCO and Match Systech FZE – as conduits. Ostovari directed co-conspirators at these front companies to acquire the electronics and electronic components for Company A. Ostovari and his co-conspirators intentionally concealed from electronics suppliers in the United States and elsewhere that the goods were destined for Iran, falsely stating that MH-SYS and Match Systech in the UAE were the end users when in fact the true end user was Company A in Iran. Ostovari then directed his co-conspirators to arrange to ship the goods from the UAE to Company A in Iran.

    After he became a lawful permanent resident of the United States in May 2020, Ostovari continued to export, sell, and supply electronics and electrical components to Company A in Iran.

    Ostovari knew of the U.S. sanctions against Iran, mentioning them in emails to co-conspirators and directing one co-conspirator to provide false information to a federal export control officer regarding the end use of U.S.-origin goods they had shipped to Company A in Iran.

    The IEEPA and the ITSR impose controls and restrictions on transactions involving Iran based on the threats posed by Iran to the national security of the United States including, among others, its pursuit of nuclear weapons and sponsorship of terrorism. The IEEPA and ITSR, among other things, prohibit the export, re-export, sale, or supply, directly or indirectly, from the United States or by a United States person, wherever located, of any goods, technology, or services to Iran or the Government of Iran without first obtaining authorization from the U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC).

    At no time did Ostovari, his companies, or his co-conspirators apply for or obtain authorization from OFAC to export, sell or supply goods and technologies from the United States to Iran.

    An indictment contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.

    If convicted, Ostovari would face a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison for each count.

    Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security Office of Export Enforcement, and IRS Criminal Investigation are investigating this matter.

    Assistant United States Attorneys David C. Lachman and Colin S. Scott of the Terrorism and Export Crimes Section are prosecuting this case. Trial Attorney Kathryn DeMarco of the Justice Department National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section provided valuable assistance.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: CEO of Iranian Engineering Company Arrested for Allegedly Shipping Sophisticated Electronics to Iran in Violation of U.S. Sanctions

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LOS ANGELES – An Iranian national and United States lawful permanent resident has been arrested on a four-count federal indictment charging him with unlawfully exporting electronics used in railway signaling and telecommunications systems from the United States to Iran, in violation of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) and the Iranian Transactions and Sanctions Regulations (ITSR).

    Bahram Mohammad Ostovari, 66, a resident of Tehran, Iran, and Santa Monica, was arrested Thursday afternoon upon his arrival at Los Angeles International Airport.

    Ostovari is charged with one count of conspiracy to violate the International Emergency Economic Powers Act and three counts of violating the IEEPA.

    He pleaded not guilty to the charges at his arraignment today in United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles. A federal magistrate judge ordered him released on $1.3 million bond and scheduled a September 2 trial date.

    According to the indictment unsealed today, Ostovari is the founder and CEO of a Tehran-based engineering company – identified in the indictment as “Company A” – that supplied signaling and communications systems to Iran and its government, including on projects for the Islamic Republic of Iran Railways. From at least May 2018 to July 2025, Ostovari and his co-conspirators obtained and shipped sophisticated computer processors, railway signaling equipment, and other electronics and electronic components to Company A in Iran. Many of these items were controlled under federal regulations, and their export to Iran without a license was prohibited.

    To perpetrate his illegal export scheme, Ostovari used two front companies he controlled in the UAE – MH-SYS FZCO and Match Systech FZE – as conduits. Ostovari directed co-conspirators at these front companies to acquire the electronics and electronic components for Company A. Ostovari and his co-conspirators intentionally concealed from electronics suppliers in the United States and elsewhere that the goods were destined for Iran, falsely stating that MH-SYS and Match Systech in the UAE were the end users when in fact the true end user was Company A in Iran. Ostovari then directed his co-conspirators to arrange to ship the goods from the UAE to Company A in Iran.

    After he became a lawful permanent resident of the United States in May 2020, Ostovari continued to export, sell, and supply electronics and electrical components to Company A in Iran.

    Ostovari knew of the U.S. sanctions against Iran, mentioning them in emails to co-conspirators and directing one co-conspirator to provide false information to a federal export control officer regarding the end use of U.S.-origin goods they had shipped to Company A in Iran.

    The IEEPA and the ITSR impose controls and restrictions on transactions involving Iran based on the threats posed by Iran to the national security of the United States including, among others, its pursuit of nuclear weapons and sponsorship of terrorism. The IEEPA and ITSR, among other things, prohibit the export, re-export, sale, or supply, directly or indirectly, from the United States or by a United States person, wherever located, of any goods, technology, or services to Iran or the Government of Iran without first obtaining authorization from the U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC).

    At no time did Ostovari, his companies, or his co-conspirators apply for or obtain authorization from OFAC to export, sell or supply goods and technologies from the United States to Iran.

    An indictment contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.

    If convicted, Ostovari would face a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison for each count.

    Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security Office of Export Enforcement, and IRS Criminal Investigation are investigating this matter.

    Assistant United States Attorneys David C. Lachman and Colin S. Scott of the Terrorism and Export Crimes Section are prosecuting this case. Trial Attorney Kathryn DeMarco of the Justice Department National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section provided valuable assistance.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican national, illegally living in Beaumont, guilty of immigration violations in the Eastern District of Texas

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BEAUMONT, Texas –A Mexican national has pleaded guilty to an immigration violation in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.

    Jesus Adame-Nunez, 43, a Mexican national illegally residing in Beaumont, pleaded guilty to illegal reentry by a previously deported person before U.S. Magistrate Judge Zack Hawthorn on July 10, 2025.

    According to information presented in court, Adame-Nunez was arrested in Beaumont on February 11, 2025, after an investigation revealed that he had been previously deported from the United States to Mexico in 2006.

    Adame-Nunez faces up to 2 years in federal prison and deportation at sentencing.  The maximum statutory sentence prescribed by Congress is provided here for information purposes, as the sentencing will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.  A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the U.S. Probation Office.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    This case was investigated by Department of Homeland Security-Immigration and Customs Enforcement and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Jackson. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican national, illegally living in Beaumont, guilty of immigration violations in the Eastern District of Texas

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BEAUMONT, Texas –A Mexican national has pleaded guilty to an immigration violation in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.

    Jesus Adame-Nunez, 43, a Mexican national illegally residing in Beaumont, pleaded guilty to illegal reentry by a previously deported person before U.S. Magistrate Judge Zack Hawthorn on July 10, 2025.

    According to information presented in court, Adame-Nunez was arrested in Beaumont on February 11, 2025, after an investigation revealed that he had been previously deported from the United States to Mexico in 2006.

    Adame-Nunez faces up to 2 years in federal prison and deportation at sentencing.  The maximum statutory sentence prescribed by Congress is provided here for information purposes, as the sentencing will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.  A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the U.S. Probation Office.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    This case was investigated by Department of Homeland Security-Immigration and Customs Enforcement and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Jackson. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • PM Modi hands out 51,000 appointment letters in 16th Rozgar Mela, says youth driving nation-building

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday distributed over 51,000 appointment letters to newly-inducted recruits in various Central government departments and organisations through video conferencing during the 16th edition of the Rozgar Mela.

    The employment drive was conducted simultaneously at 47 locations across the country.

    According to an official statement, the new recruits, selected from across India, will be joining key departments including the Ministry of Railways, the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Department of Posts, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the Department of Financial Services, and the Ministry of Labour and Employment, among others.

    Addressing the new appointees, PM Modi said, “Our campaign to hand out appointment letters to youth in the Central Government is underway. Today, over 51,000 youth have been given appointment letters. Through such employment initiatives, till now, lakhs of youth have secured permanent jobs in the Indian government. These individuals are now contributing significantly to nation-building.”

    He highlighted the wide spectrum of departments where the recruits will be deployed, highlighting their contribution to diverse national missions.

    “Many of you have started your careers in Indian Railways, and many will be a part of India’s security. People appointed in the postal department will take the government’s initiatives to every village. Many will be a part of the ‘Health for All’ mission, some will enhance the engine of financial inclusion, and others will further strengthen the industrial development of the country. Your department might be different, but the focus is one — service to the nation and ‘Citizen First’,” he said.

    The Prime Minister congratulated the appointees and wished them well as they begin their new professional journey.

    Stressing India’s “unlimited power — demography and democracy,” PM Modi said, “India has the largest youth population and the largest democracy. This is India’s most cherished wealth and guarantee. Our government is working day and night to make this wealth a source of progress.”

    Referring to his recent international engagements, PM Modi said, “Two days ago, I returned from a five-nation tour. In every country, India’s youth power was acknowledged. The agreements made during this tour will all benefit Indian youth.”

    Launched on October 22, 2022, the Rozgar Mela is part of the Prime Minister’s mission to prioritise employment generation. It is aimed at expediting recruitment across government departments and organisations and ensuring that vacant posts do not slow down public service delivery.

    Official data reveals that more than 10 lakh appointment letters have been issued across the country through Rozgar Melas since its inception.

    The initiative has played a key role in streamlining recruitment, improving efficiency in public services, and strengthening critical infrastructure in schools, hospitals, railway stations, police units, and tax offices.

    The appointees under the Rozgar Mela will serve in a variety of sectors, reinforcing the government’s workforce and contributing towards national development goals.

    By accelerating the selection process, the initiative is ensuring that employment generation remains at the core of India’s governance agenda.

    (IANS)

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A regular bus route has opened linking China’s Yanji and Russia’s Vladivostok

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    CHANGCHUN, July 12 (Xinhua) — A regular passenger bus route has recently been launched between Yanji (northeast China’s Jilin Province) and Russia’s Vladivostok.

    The total length of the route is 399.2 km, travel time is 8 hours 50 minutes. Currently, buses depart from Yanji and Vladivostok daily, and in the future the frequency of trips will increase depending on passenger traffic.

    Yanji City, the capital of Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture (YKAO) in Jilin Province, is located more than 100 km from the border city of Hunchun, located at the junction of the state borders of China, Russia and the DPRK. In recent years, YKAO has become one of the main tourist destinations for residents of the Russian Far East. To meet the needs of tourists, transport companies of YKAO and Primorsky Krai signed an agreement last year to launch the above-mentioned route.

    As it became known, travelers on the new route will enjoy benefits such as customs clearance immediately upon arrival. In order to provide tourists from the two countries with safe and comfortable travel conditions, the Chinese side provides 50-seater luxury buses and charter services using luxury 9-seater minivans. -0-

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Health chief attends Nanjing forum

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Health Prof Lo Chung-mau attended the 13th Nanjing Academic Symposium on Hepatobiliary Surgery & Liver Transplantation in Nanjing today to share with liver transplant experts from around the world Hong Kong’s latest developments in organ transplantation, and the work of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government in co-operation with the Mainland on organ donation and transplantation.
     
    In his address at the opening ceremony, Prof Lo said: “Hong Kong and the Mainland have a long-standing collaboration in hepatobiliary surgery. I have personally witnessed experts from both places jointly performing a number of complex liver transplant surgeries, achieving in-depth integration of technology and resources, which is an exemplary model of medical co-operation under the ‘one country, two systems’ framework.

    “In recent years, Hong Kong and the Mainland have also made breakthroughs in organ donation and transplantation. In December 2022 and February this year, two cases of cross-boundary heart donation successfully saved the lives of two infants, exemplifying to the fullest the inseparable ties between the Mainland and Hong Kong as well as our shared principle and mission in protecting and saving lives.”
     
    Apart from stressing that with the accumulation of experience, the channels and procedures for handling urgent cross-boundary organ transplant requests have now been streamlined and standardised, Prof Lo made it clear that the Hong Kong SAR Government will continue to explore arrangements for regularising this mechanism.
     
    He also shared the latest developments in the prevention and control of liver disease in Hong Kong.
     
    “Since 1988, Hong Kong has provided universal hepatitis B vaccination for all newborns, significantly reducing infection rates among younger generations.
     
    “As outlined in last year’s Policy Address, the Chief Executive also proposed to implement hepatitis B screening to prevent liver cancer. If patients can be identified at an early stage, it will facilitate early identification and early treatment, thereby effectively reducing risks of developing complications including cirrhosis and liver cancer.”
     
    Prof Lo then visited the Jiangsu Province Hospital (the First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University), where he exchanged views and shared experiences on enhancing hospital management and services with the hospital’s President Prof Liu Yun.
     
    He highlighted that the Hospital Authority is adopting China’s International Hospital Accreditation Standards (2021 Version) developed by the Shenzhen Hospital Accreditation Research Centre to resume the hospital accreditation programme at its public hospitals.
     
    Moreover, the authority seeks to optimise the diagnosis process of the relevant specialties and improve the treatment outcomes through the establishment of the first stroke centre at Tuen Mun Hospital, as well as chest pain centres at both Queen Mary Hospital and Prince of Wales Hospital.
     
    Prof Lo added that the Hong Kong SAR Government will continue to promote the accreditation programme under the standards as well as the establishment of chest pain centres and stroke centres.
     
    “These initiatives will not only improve healthcare integration within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and support Hong Kong’s integration into national development, but also leverage Hong Kong’s advantages of enjoying strong support of the motherland and being closely connected to the world, so as to demonstrate the excellence of the national hospital accreditation standards to the international community.”

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Former Uruguay midfielder Lodeiro rejoins Nacional

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

    Uruguayan midfielder Nicolas Lodeiro has returned to his boyhood team Nacional on a free transfer, the Montevideo club said on Friday.

    Lodeiro signed a one-year deal with Nacional after parting ways with MLS side Houston Dynamo.

    “I was drawn by the challenge and the opportunity to close a cycle,” the 36-year-old said at his official presentation.

    “I don’t want to go anywhere else from here. This is the place where I grew up, and the chance to wear the shirt again is something I don’t take lightly.”

    Lodeiro began his professional career at Nacional in 2007 before spells at Ajax, Botafogo, Corinthians, Boca Juniors, Seattle, Orlando and Houston.

    He has 60 Uruguay caps and was a part of the Celeste’s FIFA World Cup squads in 2014 and 2018.

    Lodeiro added: “I’m a lot more experienced now but I have the same desire and enthusiasm as when I left.” 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Sinner beats Djokovic to face Alcaraz in Wimbledon final

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

    Top seed Jannik Sinner will take on defending champion Carlos Alcaraz in the Wimbledon final after the Italian ruthlessly dismantled Novak Djokovic 6-3, 6-3, 6-4 on Friday.

    The victory sent Sinner into a maiden Wimbledon final and set up a re-match of last month’s French Open final, where the world No. 1 squandered three championship points before losing to Alcaraz.

    “It’s amazing,” Sinner said in his on-court interview. “I can’t believe it. It’s a tournament I always watched when I was young, and I would never have imagined I could play in the final.”

    When asked what he took to beat Djokovic, he said: “I served very well and was moving much better today. We all saw, especially in the third set, he was a bit injured.”

    Sinner broke Djokovic five times while the Serb broke only once in the third set, where Sinner remarkably won five games in a row to secure a spot in the final.

    Sunday’s final will give Sinner a chance for revenge against Alcaraz, who beat American fifth seed Taylor Fritz 6-4, 5-7, 6-3, 7-6 (8-6) in the other semifinal.

    “It’s a huge honor for me to share the court again with Carlos,” Sinner said.

    “Hopefully it will be a good match like the last one – I don’t know if it will be better because I don’t know if that’s possible, but we will try – hopefully it will be an enjoyable match,” he added. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • Over 1.63 lakh pilgrims perform Amarnath Yatra in first 9 days

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Over 1.63 lakh devotees have performed the sacred Amarnath Yatra since it began on July 3, even as a fresh batch of 6,639 pilgrims departed from Jammu for Kashmir early Saturday morning.

    According to officials, the pilgrims who have so far undertaken the yatra have successfully had ‘darshan’ at the holy cave shrine, which is situated at an altitude of 3,888 metres in the Himalayas of south Kashmir. On Saturday, two escorted convoys carrying the latest group of pilgrims left from Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu. The first convoy of 116 vehicles, carrying 2,337 yatris, departed at 2:50 a.m. for the Baltal base camp. The second convoy, consisting of 161 vehicles and 4,302 pilgrims, left at 3:55 a.m. for the Nunwan base camp near Pahalgam.

    Meanwhile, the Bhumi Pujan ceremony of the sacred ‘Chhari Mubarak’ (Lord Shiva’s Holy Mace) was performed at Pahalgam on Thursday. The ceremonial mace was taken from the Dashnami Akhara Building in Srinagar by a group of sadhus led by Mahant Swami Deependra Giri, the sole custodian of the Chhari Mubarak. The procession carried the mace to the Gauri Shankar temple in Pahalgam, where the traditional Bhumi Pujan was conducted. The Chhari Mubarak is scheduled to reach the holy cave shrine on August 9, the final day of the yatra, which coincides with Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.

    In light of heightened security concerns, particularly following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam’s Baisaran meadow that claimed 26 lives, authorities have deployed extensive multi-tier security arrangements. The central government has sent an additional 180 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) to reinforce existing deployments from the Army, BSF, CRPF, SSB, and local police.

    The Indian Army has also launched a comprehensive security initiative named “Operation SHIVA 2025.” More than 8,500 troops have been deployed alongside advanced surveillance and combat technology to ensure the safety of pilgrims. The operation includes a dedicated counter-UAS (Unmanned Aerial System) grid with over 50 counter-drone and electronic warfare systems to tackle aerial threats.

    Live monitoring via UAVs (drones) and PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) cameras is being used to track yatra convoys and activity near the cave shrine. Engineer task forces have been deployed to maintain and improve infrastructure along the route, including bridge construction, track widening, and landslide mitigation.

    Medical preparedness has also been enhanced significantly. The Army has positioned more than 150 doctors and paramedics, two Advanced Dressing Stations, nine Medical Aid Posts, a 100-bed hospital, and 26 oxygen booths supported by 2 lakh litres of oxygen. Additional support includes bomb detection squads, technical detachments, and communication teams.

    Transit camps, base camps, and the entire route from Jammu to the holy cave are under strict surveillance and protection. Notably, helicopter services have been suspended this year due to security concerns.

    Pilgrims undertake the yatra to visit the naturally formed ice stalagmite inside the cave shrine, believed by devotees to represent Lord Shiva. The structure is known to wax and wane with the lunar cycle, reinforcing its mystical significance.

    The Amarnath Yatra remains one of Hinduism’s holiest pilgrimages. According to legend, it was in this cave that Lord Shiva revealed the secrets of immortality and eternal life to Mata Parvati.

    This year’s pilgrimage spans 38 days, with thousands of pilgrims trekking via the two main routes: the traditional 46-kilometre Pahalgam route, which typically takes four days, and the shorter 14-kilometre Baltal route, which allows pilgrims to complete the round-trip in a single day.

    (With agencies inputs)

  • Over 1.63 lakh pilgrims perform Amarnath Yatra in first 9 days

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Over 1.63 lakh devotees have performed the sacred Amarnath Yatra since it began on July 3, even as a fresh batch of 6,639 pilgrims departed from Jammu for Kashmir early Saturday morning.

    According to officials, the pilgrims who have so far undertaken the yatra have successfully had ‘darshan’ at the holy cave shrine, which is situated at an altitude of 3,888 metres in the Himalayas of south Kashmir. On Saturday, two escorted convoys carrying the latest group of pilgrims left from Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu. The first convoy of 116 vehicles, carrying 2,337 yatris, departed at 2:50 a.m. for the Baltal base camp. The second convoy, consisting of 161 vehicles and 4,302 pilgrims, left at 3:55 a.m. for the Nunwan base camp near Pahalgam.

    Meanwhile, the Bhumi Pujan ceremony of the sacred ‘Chhari Mubarak’ (Lord Shiva’s Holy Mace) was performed at Pahalgam on Thursday. The ceremonial mace was taken from the Dashnami Akhara Building in Srinagar by a group of sadhus led by Mahant Swami Deependra Giri, the sole custodian of the Chhari Mubarak. The procession carried the mace to the Gauri Shankar temple in Pahalgam, where the traditional Bhumi Pujan was conducted. The Chhari Mubarak is scheduled to reach the holy cave shrine on August 9, the final day of the yatra, which coincides with Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.

    In light of heightened security concerns, particularly following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam’s Baisaran meadow that claimed 26 lives, authorities have deployed extensive multi-tier security arrangements. The central government has sent an additional 180 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) to reinforce existing deployments from the Army, BSF, CRPF, SSB, and local police.

    The Indian Army has also launched a comprehensive security initiative named “Operation SHIVA 2025.” More than 8,500 troops have been deployed alongside advanced surveillance and combat technology to ensure the safety of pilgrims. The operation includes a dedicated counter-UAS (Unmanned Aerial System) grid with over 50 counter-drone and electronic warfare systems to tackle aerial threats.

    Live monitoring via UAVs (drones) and PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) cameras is being used to track yatra convoys and activity near the cave shrine. Engineer task forces have been deployed to maintain and improve infrastructure along the route, including bridge construction, track widening, and landslide mitigation.

    Medical preparedness has also been enhanced significantly. The Army has positioned more than 150 doctors and paramedics, two Advanced Dressing Stations, nine Medical Aid Posts, a 100-bed hospital, and 26 oxygen booths supported by 2 lakh litres of oxygen. Additional support includes bomb detection squads, technical detachments, and communication teams.

    Transit camps, base camps, and the entire route from Jammu to the holy cave are under strict surveillance and protection. Notably, helicopter services have been suspended this year due to security concerns.

    Pilgrims undertake the yatra to visit the naturally formed ice stalagmite inside the cave shrine, believed by devotees to represent Lord Shiva. The structure is known to wax and wane with the lunar cycle, reinforcing its mystical significance.

    The Amarnath Yatra remains one of Hinduism’s holiest pilgrimages. According to legend, it was in this cave that Lord Shiva revealed the secrets of immortality and eternal life to Mata Parvati.

    This year’s pilgrimage spans 38 days, with thousands of pilgrims trekking via the two main routes: the traditional 46-kilometre Pahalgam route, which typically takes four days, and the shorter 14-kilometre Baltal route, which allows pilgrims to complete the round-trip in a single day.

    (With agencies inputs)

  • Over 1.63 lakh pilgrims perform Amarnath Yatra in first 9 days

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Over 1.63 lakh devotees have performed the sacred Amarnath Yatra since it began on July 3, even as a fresh batch of 6,639 pilgrims departed from Jammu for Kashmir early Saturday morning.

    According to officials, the pilgrims who have so far undertaken the yatra have successfully had ‘darshan’ at the holy cave shrine, which is situated at an altitude of 3,888 metres in the Himalayas of south Kashmir. On Saturday, two escorted convoys carrying the latest group of pilgrims left from Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu. The first convoy of 116 vehicles, carrying 2,337 yatris, departed at 2:50 a.m. for the Baltal base camp. The second convoy, consisting of 161 vehicles and 4,302 pilgrims, left at 3:55 a.m. for the Nunwan base camp near Pahalgam.

    Meanwhile, the Bhumi Pujan ceremony of the sacred ‘Chhari Mubarak’ (Lord Shiva’s Holy Mace) was performed at Pahalgam on Thursday. The ceremonial mace was taken from the Dashnami Akhara Building in Srinagar by a group of sadhus led by Mahant Swami Deependra Giri, the sole custodian of the Chhari Mubarak. The procession carried the mace to the Gauri Shankar temple in Pahalgam, where the traditional Bhumi Pujan was conducted. The Chhari Mubarak is scheduled to reach the holy cave shrine on August 9, the final day of the yatra, which coincides with Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.

    In light of heightened security concerns, particularly following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam’s Baisaran meadow that claimed 26 lives, authorities have deployed extensive multi-tier security arrangements. The central government has sent an additional 180 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) to reinforce existing deployments from the Army, BSF, CRPF, SSB, and local police.

    The Indian Army has also launched a comprehensive security initiative named “Operation SHIVA 2025.” More than 8,500 troops have been deployed alongside advanced surveillance and combat technology to ensure the safety of pilgrims. The operation includes a dedicated counter-UAS (Unmanned Aerial System) grid with over 50 counter-drone and electronic warfare systems to tackle aerial threats.

    Live monitoring via UAVs (drones) and PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) cameras is being used to track yatra convoys and activity near the cave shrine. Engineer task forces have been deployed to maintain and improve infrastructure along the route, including bridge construction, track widening, and landslide mitigation.

    Medical preparedness has also been enhanced significantly. The Army has positioned more than 150 doctors and paramedics, two Advanced Dressing Stations, nine Medical Aid Posts, a 100-bed hospital, and 26 oxygen booths supported by 2 lakh litres of oxygen. Additional support includes bomb detection squads, technical detachments, and communication teams.

    Transit camps, base camps, and the entire route from Jammu to the holy cave are under strict surveillance and protection. Notably, helicopter services have been suspended this year due to security concerns.

    Pilgrims undertake the yatra to visit the naturally formed ice stalagmite inside the cave shrine, believed by devotees to represent Lord Shiva. The structure is known to wax and wane with the lunar cycle, reinforcing its mystical significance.

    The Amarnath Yatra remains one of Hinduism’s holiest pilgrimages. According to legend, it was in this cave that Lord Shiva revealed the secrets of immortality and eternal life to Mata Parvati.

    This year’s pilgrimage spans 38 days, with thousands of pilgrims trekking via the two main routes: the traditional 46-kilometre Pahalgam route, which typically takes four days, and the shorter 14-kilometre Baltal route, which allows pilgrims to complete the round-trip in a single day.

    (With agencies inputs)

  • Over 1.63 lakh pilgrims perform Amarnath Yatra in first 9 days

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Over 1.63 lakh devotees have performed the sacred Amarnath Yatra since it began on July 3, even as a fresh batch of 6,639 pilgrims departed from Jammu for Kashmir early Saturday morning.

    According to officials, the pilgrims who have so far undertaken the yatra have successfully had ‘darshan’ at the holy cave shrine, which is situated at an altitude of 3,888 metres in the Himalayas of south Kashmir. On Saturday, two escorted convoys carrying the latest group of pilgrims left from Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu. The first convoy of 116 vehicles, carrying 2,337 yatris, departed at 2:50 a.m. for the Baltal base camp. The second convoy, consisting of 161 vehicles and 4,302 pilgrims, left at 3:55 a.m. for the Nunwan base camp near Pahalgam.

    Meanwhile, the Bhumi Pujan ceremony of the sacred ‘Chhari Mubarak’ (Lord Shiva’s Holy Mace) was performed at Pahalgam on Thursday. The ceremonial mace was taken from the Dashnami Akhara Building in Srinagar by a group of sadhus led by Mahant Swami Deependra Giri, the sole custodian of the Chhari Mubarak. The procession carried the mace to the Gauri Shankar temple in Pahalgam, where the traditional Bhumi Pujan was conducted. The Chhari Mubarak is scheduled to reach the holy cave shrine on August 9, the final day of the yatra, which coincides with Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.

    In light of heightened security concerns, particularly following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam’s Baisaran meadow that claimed 26 lives, authorities have deployed extensive multi-tier security arrangements. The central government has sent an additional 180 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) to reinforce existing deployments from the Army, BSF, CRPF, SSB, and local police.

    The Indian Army has also launched a comprehensive security initiative named “Operation SHIVA 2025.” More than 8,500 troops have been deployed alongside advanced surveillance and combat technology to ensure the safety of pilgrims. The operation includes a dedicated counter-UAS (Unmanned Aerial System) grid with over 50 counter-drone and electronic warfare systems to tackle aerial threats.

    Live monitoring via UAVs (drones) and PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) cameras is being used to track yatra convoys and activity near the cave shrine. Engineer task forces have been deployed to maintain and improve infrastructure along the route, including bridge construction, track widening, and landslide mitigation.

    Medical preparedness has also been enhanced significantly. The Army has positioned more than 150 doctors and paramedics, two Advanced Dressing Stations, nine Medical Aid Posts, a 100-bed hospital, and 26 oxygen booths supported by 2 lakh litres of oxygen. Additional support includes bomb detection squads, technical detachments, and communication teams.

    Transit camps, base camps, and the entire route from Jammu to the holy cave are under strict surveillance and protection. Notably, helicopter services have been suspended this year due to security concerns.

    Pilgrims undertake the yatra to visit the naturally formed ice stalagmite inside the cave shrine, believed by devotees to represent Lord Shiva. The structure is known to wax and wane with the lunar cycle, reinforcing its mystical significance.

    The Amarnath Yatra remains one of Hinduism’s holiest pilgrimages. According to legend, it was in this cave that Lord Shiva revealed the secrets of immortality and eternal life to Mata Parvati.

    This year’s pilgrimage spans 38 days, with thousands of pilgrims trekking via the two main routes: the traditional 46-kilometre Pahalgam route, which typically takes four days, and the shorter 14-kilometre Baltal route, which allows pilgrims to complete the round-trip in a single day.

    (With agencies inputs)

  • UN report urges stronger measures to detect AI-driven deepfakes

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Companies must use advanced tools to detect and stamp out misinformation and deepfake content to help counter growing risks of election interference and financial fraud, the United Nations’ International Telecommunication Union urged in a report on Friday.

    Deepfakes such as AI-generated images and videos, and audio that convincingly impersonates real people, pose mounting risks, the ITU said in the report released at its “AI for Good Summit” in Geneva.

    The ITU called for robust standards to combat manipulated multimedia and recommended that content distributors such as social media platforms use digital verification tools to authenticate images and videos before sharing.

    “Trust in social media has dropped significantly because people don’t know what’s true and what’s fake,” Bilel Jamoussi, Chief of the Study Groups Department at the ITU’s Standardization Bureau, noted. Combatting deepfakes was a top challenge due to Generative AI’s ability to fabricate realistic multimedia, he said.

    Leonard Rosenthol of Adobe, a digital editing software leader that has been addressing deepfakes since 2019, underscored the importance of establishing the provenance of digital content to help users assess its trustworthiness.

    “We need more of the places where users consume their content to show this information…When you are scrolling through your feeds you want to know: ‘can I trust this image, this video…’” Rosenthol said.

    Dr. Farzaneh Badiei, founder of digital governance research firm Digital Medusa, stressed the importance of a global approach to the problem, given there is currently no single international watchdog focusing on detecting manipulated material.

    “If we have patchworks of standards and solutions, then the harmful deepfake can be more effective,” she told Reuters.

    The ITU is currently developing standards for watermarking videos – which make up 80% of internet traffic – to embed provenance data such as creator identity and timestamps.

    Tomaz Levak, founder of Switzerland-based Umanitek, urged the private sector to proactively implement safety measures and educate users.

    “AI will only get more powerful, faster or smarter… We’ll need to upskill people to make sure that they are not victims of the systems,” he said.

    (Reuters)

  • UN report urges stronger measures to detect AI-driven deepfakes

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Companies must use advanced tools to detect and stamp out misinformation and deepfake content to help counter growing risks of election interference and financial fraud, the United Nations’ International Telecommunication Union urged in a report on Friday.

    Deepfakes such as AI-generated images and videos, and audio that convincingly impersonates real people, pose mounting risks, the ITU said in the report released at its “AI for Good Summit” in Geneva.

    The ITU called for robust standards to combat manipulated multimedia and recommended that content distributors such as social media platforms use digital verification tools to authenticate images and videos before sharing.

    “Trust in social media has dropped significantly because people don’t know what’s true and what’s fake,” Bilel Jamoussi, Chief of the Study Groups Department at the ITU’s Standardization Bureau, noted. Combatting deepfakes was a top challenge due to Generative AI’s ability to fabricate realistic multimedia, he said.

    Leonard Rosenthol of Adobe, a digital editing software leader that has been addressing deepfakes since 2019, underscored the importance of establishing the provenance of digital content to help users assess its trustworthiness.

    “We need more of the places where users consume their content to show this information…When you are scrolling through your feeds you want to know: ‘can I trust this image, this video…’” Rosenthol said.

    Dr. Farzaneh Badiei, founder of digital governance research firm Digital Medusa, stressed the importance of a global approach to the problem, given there is currently no single international watchdog focusing on detecting manipulated material.

    “If we have patchworks of standards and solutions, then the harmful deepfake can be more effective,” she told Reuters.

    The ITU is currently developing standards for watermarking videos – which make up 80% of internet traffic – to embed provenance data such as creator identity and timestamps.

    Tomaz Levak, founder of Switzerland-based Umanitek, urged the private sector to proactively implement safety measures and educate users.

    “AI will only get more powerful, faster or smarter… We’ll need to upskill people to make sure that they are not victims of the systems,” he said.

    (Reuters)

  • UN report urges stronger measures to detect AI-driven deepfakes

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Companies must use advanced tools to detect and stamp out misinformation and deepfake content to help counter growing risks of election interference and financial fraud, the United Nations’ International Telecommunication Union urged in a report on Friday.

    Deepfakes such as AI-generated images and videos, and audio that convincingly impersonates real people, pose mounting risks, the ITU said in the report released at its “AI for Good Summit” in Geneva.

    The ITU called for robust standards to combat manipulated multimedia and recommended that content distributors such as social media platforms use digital verification tools to authenticate images and videos before sharing.

    “Trust in social media has dropped significantly because people don’t know what’s true and what’s fake,” Bilel Jamoussi, Chief of the Study Groups Department at the ITU’s Standardization Bureau, noted. Combatting deepfakes was a top challenge due to Generative AI’s ability to fabricate realistic multimedia, he said.

    Leonard Rosenthol of Adobe, a digital editing software leader that has been addressing deepfakes since 2019, underscored the importance of establishing the provenance of digital content to help users assess its trustworthiness.

    “We need more of the places where users consume their content to show this information…When you are scrolling through your feeds you want to know: ‘can I trust this image, this video…’” Rosenthol said.

    Dr. Farzaneh Badiei, founder of digital governance research firm Digital Medusa, stressed the importance of a global approach to the problem, given there is currently no single international watchdog focusing on detecting manipulated material.

    “If we have patchworks of standards and solutions, then the harmful deepfake can be more effective,” she told Reuters.

    The ITU is currently developing standards for watermarking videos – which make up 80% of internet traffic – to embed provenance data such as creator identity and timestamps.

    Tomaz Levak, founder of Switzerland-based Umanitek, urged the private sector to proactively implement safety measures and educate users.

    “AI will only get more powerful, faster or smarter… We’ll need to upskill people to make sure that they are not victims of the systems,” he said.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Commissioner of Police encourages graduates to demonstrate team spirit (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Commissioner of Police encourages graduates to demonstrate team spirit  
    Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Chow said this was his first time attending the Police College passing-out parade in the capacity of the Commissioner of Police, and serving as the reviewing officer. He mentioned his participation in the parade as a graduate at the same venue 29 years ago, and hence could fully understand the feelings of the graduates.
     
    He stated that the HKPF, with a history of 181 years, is a world-renowned, professional and highly efficient team. Over the years, the Force has encountered countless challenges, but has always overcome obstacles with team spirit, upholding the motto of “Serving Hong Kong with Honour, Duty and Loyalty”, ensuring the safety and stability of Hong Kong.
     
    He said that police officers have to serve in various posts throughout their career, and policing work requires concerted efforts to overcome adversities. Team members have to share weal and woe with each other and express care for their fellow colleagues; whereas team leaders win respect through personal integrity and take the initiative and stand at the forefront.
     
    He shared that he had worked closely with a number of outstanding team members in his 30-year policing career. He stressed that team culture is indispensable and with great pride in HKPF, and since his appointment as the Commissioner of Police in April, one of his work priorities is strengthening the team culture.
     
         Mr Chow wished that graduates would stay in touch with their fellow classmates and peers from the same batches, to support and encourage each other, as well as bearing in mind that if each member goes the extra mile for the team, much more could be achieved. He also encouraged graduates to uphold their original aspiration when facing challenges ahead, and remember the steadfast support from their families, friends, colleagues, and the entire Force, and they are never fighting alone.
    Issued at HKT 14:21

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China prepares to launch cargo spacecraft Tianzhou-9

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    WENCHANG, HAINAN PROVINCE, July 12 (Xinhua) — The combination of the Tianzhou-9 cargo spacecraft and the Long March-7 Y10 carrier rocket was delivered to the launch pad of the Wenchang Satellite Launch Center in south China’s Hainan Province in a vertical position on Saturday, according to the China Manned Space Administration (CMSA).

    The CMSA noted that the launch of the Tianzhou-9 cargo spacecraft will be carried out in the coming days at an appropriate time.

    The facilities and equipment on the launch pad are functioning normally. Functional checks and joint tests will be carried out before the launch, according to the plan, CMSA added. -0-

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Delhi Parks 10°C Cooler, But 8 out of 10 parks Lack Water, Gates Shut in Heat

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    Delhi, 12 July, 2025: A recent audit of 50 parks across Delhi has revealed stark contrasts in surface temperatures – with shaded green areas being up to 20°C cooler in some parks than nearby unshaded concrete spaces, while an average 10°C temperature difference was recorded. In one instance, the concrete zones peaked at 53.3°C, while tree-covered spots within the same park remained at 35°C, underscoring the critical cooling power of urban forests.

    Yet despite this natural relief, the audit led by Greenpeace India in collaboration with COHAS and Youth For Climate Justice, South Asia highlights a troubling picture: 8 out of 10 parks lack drinking water facilities for the public, and none of the parks had official provisions for nests or birdhouses to protect urban birdlife from soaring temperatures.

    The audit was conducted to assess how well Delhi’s green spaces, which serve as vital buffers against extreme heat, are currently equipped to meet the needs of residents, animals, and birds during peak summer months. It surveyed basic amenities such as access to water, cooling infrastructure, biodiversity support, and equitable access across Delhi’s zones.

    While Delhi is said to have green cover across 25% of its geographical area, the reality is that most parks are concentrated in just five districts, leaving large swathes of the city, particularly low-income, congested areas with minimal access to green relief. This inequity, combined with concretisation of urban forests, further enhances heat vulnerability in the capital.

    “At a time of record-breaking heat waves, Delhi cannot afford to lose its lung spaces. Urban forests and parks are not ornamental — they are life-saving infrastructure and help our cities fight climate change. This audit clearly shows that green cover lowers temperatures dramatically, yet our policies prioritize concrete over canopies. The forest cover in Delhi has and is still under threat of being converted into big infrastructural projects. Forest areas like Dwarka forest, Aravalis act as carbon sinks for Delhi and destroying these will further aggravate the impacts of climate change. There is a need to save some of the forests. If we are serious about climate resilience, we need urgent, actionable changes,” said Aakiz Farooq, Climate & Energy Campaigner at Greenpeace India.

    “We conducted this audit in the middle of the heat as we wanted to understand what people are really going through. In many low-income neighbourhoods, the heat lingers late into night, yet most parks are locked. It made us realise that parks aren’t luxuries, they’re life-saving infrastructure. We also noticed how tree roots were choked with concrete, green patches were disappearing under paving, and drinking water was missing. We recorded a significant temperature difference between green, shaded spaces. Parks should be open 24×7, with water facilities and shade as these are basic, life-saving necessities,” said Priyanka, member of the audit team from COHAS. 

    Key Findings of the Audit:

    • Temperature Variance: Up to 20°C difference between shaded green areas and adjacent concrete zones in some parks while an average of 10°C difference was recorded. 
    • Average Surface Temperatures: 39.2°C in unshaded concrete spaces vs. 28.9°C under tree cover.
    • Lack of Drinking Water: 78% of parks lacked public drinking water points.
    • Neglected Wildlife Needs: While 73% of parks had water bowls for animals and birds, almost all were set up by local residents or caretakers, not authorities.
    • Poor Water Body Management: Only 28% of parks had water bodies, many of which were dirty or drying up.
    • No Birdhouses: None of the parks had installed nests or birdhouses.
    • Access Restrictions: 74% of parks were closed at some time of the day, with 64% shut during night hours — limiting respite for residents in heat-stressed neighborhoods.

    This audit report, part of Delhi Rising campaign underscores an urgent truth: our cities cannot survive rising heat without inclusive, well-maintained green spaces. Public parks and urban forests must be protected — not converted into malls, parking lots, or gated “clean zones.” They must be accessible, equitable, and ecologically alive.

    ENDS

    Find the full report here

    For Media queries: Nibedita Saha, Media Officer, [email protected]

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC MD 1653

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Mesoscale Discussion 1653
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    1146 PM CDT Fri Jul 11 2025

    Areas affected…parts of the Texas Panhandle and adjacent east
    central New Mexico

    Concerning…Severe Thunderstorm Watch 510…

    Valid 120446Z – 120645Z

    The severe weather threat for Severe Thunderstorm Watch 510
    continues.

    SUMMARY…Stronger thunderstorm development, and the risk for strong
    to severe surface gusts, probably will begin to wane as activity
    spreads southeastward through 1-2 AM CDT.

    DISCUSSION…Stronger convection within an evolving cluster has been
    generally maintaining intensity over the past hour or two, based on
    observational data, but it has been becoming increasingly displaced
    to the cool side of south-southeastward surging convective outflow.
    This has coincided with strengthening surface pressure rises
    (including up to 4-5 mb 2-hourly in 04Z observations at Dalhart and
    Tucumcari), and an increase in strong to severe surface gusts.
    However, this probably will begin to diminish over the next couple
    of hours, as convection begin to wane in the presence of increasing
    inhibition, associated with boundary-layer cooling, and weakening
    forcing for ascent.

    ..Kerr.. 07/12/2025

    …Please see www.spc.noaa.gov for graphic product…

    ATTN…WFO…LUB…AMA…ABQ…

    LAT…LON 34950253 35360190 35890140 34920049 33700177 34140328
    34510338 34800299 34950253

    MOST PROBABLE PEAK WIND GUST…55-70 MPH

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC MD 1653

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Mesoscale Discussion 1653
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    1146 PM CDT Fri Jul 11 2025

    Areas affected…parts of the Texas Panhandle and adjacent east
    central New Mexico

    Concerning…Severe Thunderstorm Watch 510…

    Valid 120446Z – 120645Z

    The severe weather threat for Severe Thunderstorm Watch 510
    continues.

    SUMMARY…Stronger thunderstorm development, and the risk for strong
    to severe surface gusts, probably will begin to wane as activity
    spreads southeastward through 1-2 AM CDT.

    DISCUSSION…Stronger convection within an evolving cluster has been
    generally maintaining intensity over the past hour or two, based on
    observational data, but it has been becoming increasingly displaced
    to the cool side of south-southeastward surging convective outflow.
    This has coincided with strengthening surface pressure rises
    (including up to 4-5 mb 2-hourly in 04Z observations at Dalhart and
    Tucumcari), and an increase in strong to severe surface gusts.
    However, this probably will begin to diminish over the next couple
    of hours, as convection begin to wane in the presence of increasing
    inhibition, associated with boundary-layer cooling, and weakening
    forcing for ascent.

    ..Kerr.. 07/12/2025

    …Please see www.spc.noaa.gov for graphic product…

    ATTN…WFO…LUB…AMA…ABQ…

    LAT…LON 34950253 35360190 35890140 34920049 33700177 34140328
    34510338 34800299 34950253

    MOST PROBABLE PEAK WIND GUST…55-70 MPH

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s Tianzhou-9 cargo craft transported to launch site

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

    The combination of the Tianzhou-9 cargo craft, tasked with carrying supplies to China’s space station, and a Long March-7 carrier rocket was vertically transferred to the launch site on Saturday, according to the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA).

    The cargo spacecraft will be launched in the near future at an appropriate time, according to the CMSA.

    Currently, the facilities and equipment at the Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Site in the southern island province of Hainan are in good condition, and comprehensive functionality checks and joint tests are scheduled to proceed as planned ahead of the launch, said the CMSA. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by SCST at opening ceremony of City University of Hong Kong’s “City Quest” programme (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Speech by SCST at opening ceremony of City University of Hong Kong’s “City Quest” programme (English only) 
    Chairman Ngai (Council Chairman of City University of Hong Kong (CityU), Mr Michael Ngai), 屈總 (Vice President and Chairman of the Group Technology Committee, Xiaomi Corporation, Mr Qu Heng), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
     
    Good morning. It is my great pleasure to be in the CityU today for the opening ceremony of the “City Quest 尋‍城記” programme.  
     
    Today, we gather here to mark the official launch of a visionary community engagement programme that embodies the spirit of “tourism is everywhere”,「香港無處不旅遊」. I was particularly impressed that this programme is inviting every member of the public to become a storyteller of our city through the “hands” by sharing personal narratives about Hong Kong, through the “feet” by becoming docent ambassadors and through the “eyes” by capturing the beauty of Hong Kong. This resonates with what I have been advocating ever since assuming the post as Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, which is “Everyone is a tourism ambassador”, 「人人都是旅遊大使」.
     
    With the travel patterns and traveller preferences progressing into more in-depth explorations, the Working Group on Developing Tourist Hotspots, as led by the Deputy Chief Secretary for Administration, with myself as Deputy Leader, has recently announced nine hotspot projects to offer new and more in-depth tourist experiences, with one project in Old Town Central and the other in Kowloon City. The Old Town Central project will take the Central to Mid-Levels Escalator as a conduit connecting various offerings in the vicinity to guide visitors to explore the beauty of our alleys and streets. On the other hand, the Kowloon City project features the “Kowloon Walled City: A Cinematic Journey” Movie Set Exhibition as the starting point to extend visitors’ experience further in the district. Through these projects, we encourage visitors to experience Hong Kong’s authentic local flavour from widened perspectives. I am confident that the “City Quest” programme will complement our hotspot projects to curate more fascinating experiences to a wider audience, thereby bringing more visitors to the unique beauty of Hong Kong.
     
    Hong Kong is an international tourist city with significant advantages in developing city walk routes, with our diverse gourmet food, high accessibility and efficient transportation system. I wish the “City Quest 尋城‍記” programme a success and would love to see more efforts of this kind from different stakeholders in the community in promoting the Hong Kong neighbourhoods.  
     
    Before I close, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to City University of Hong Kong and its partners for organising this meaningful programme to promote Hong Kong from fresh perspectives. Thank you very much.
    Issued at HKT 13:08

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Al Green Issues Statement for the Record in Opposition to H.R. 1 During Debate on the Rule

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Al Green (TX-9)

    (Houston, TX)—On Wednesday, July 2, 2025, Congressman Al Green issued the following statement for the record on the rule for H.R. 1: 

    RE: Statement for the Record in Opposition to H.R. 1 During Debate on the Rule

    Mr. Speaker, and still I rise now, as I did during the Joint Address to Congress when I told the President and the nation that there is no mandate to cut Medicaid. The waste, fraud, and abuse argument is a façade, because no empirical evidence has been presented to justify cutting more than $1 trillion from Medicaid, Medicare, and the Affordable Care Act. These deep cuts will allow the richest Americans to receive, on average, an additional $30,000 annually, while the poorest Americans will lose approximately $700 annually. 

    This legislation is a complete betrayal of the American people, extending additional tax breaks to the wealthiest individuals in this country while cutting lifesaving, urgent services for the most vulnerable among us. The cuts to Medicaid, Medicare, and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) alone will take health care and food assistance away from millions of veterans, seniors, and families across the country. 

    Congressional Democrats offered many amendments to ensure that critical services would not be cut. I submitted an amendment to ensure that individuals who have had their SNAP benefits stolen are able to receive a reimbursement. I also submitted an amendment which would help raise awareness of the risk of renal medullary carcinoma, an aggressive form of kidney cancer found in young individuals with the sickle cell trait. These common-sense amendments would not substantially add to the deficit, yet they were still rejected by Congressional Republicans, alongside all other amendments submitted to make this bill less cruel. 

    With H.R. 1, President Trump and Congressional Republicans have shown that they want a billionaire bailout at the expense of working families. 

                                                                                                                                                                                               Sincerely,

                                                                                                                                                  

                                                                                                                                                                                                Al Green

                                                                                                                                                                                                Member of Congress

                                                                                                                                                                                                Scion of the Enslaved Africans – 

                                                                                                                                                                                                Sacrificed to Make America Great

                                                                                                                                                                                                Progenitor of August and August 20th 

                                                                                                                                                                                                as Slavery Remembrance Month and Day

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget Launchpool to List Chainbase (C) with 2.75M in Token Rewards

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, July 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget, the leading cryptocurrency exchange, and Web3 company has announced the listing of Chainbase (C) in the Innovation and AI Zone, for spot trading. Besides being available for spot trading, Bitget will launch an exclusive Launchpool rewards campaign with up to 2,750,000 C up for grabs. Chainbase is an omnichain data network.

    Spot trading for Chainbase (C) will begin on 14 July 2025 at 12:00 (UTC) under the C/USDT trading pair. Withdrawals will be available starting 15 July 2025 at 13:00 (UTC).

    To celebrate the listing, Bitget will launch a Launchpool campaign offering 2,750,000 C in total rewards. Eligible users can participate by locking either BGB or C tokens during the event, which runs from 14 July 2025 at 12:00 to 16 July 2025 at 12:00 (UTC). In the BGB pool, users can lock between 5 and 50,000 BGB, with maximum limits determined by their VIP tier, for a chance to earn a share of 2,500,000 C. In the C pool, participants can lock between 30 and 2,778,000 C to receive a portion of 250,000 C in rewards.

    Chainbase is building a decentralized interoperability layer to streamline how blockchain data is accessed and used across multiple chains. At the heart of its vision is the development of the “Crypto World Model”, an AI-powered system designed to unify on-chain and off-chain data into a single, usable layer. This model acts as a bridge, allowing developers and applications to pull standardized, real-time data from across the crypto ecosystem without needing to manage fragmented sources or infrastructure complexity.

    By delivering a consistent and intelligent data experience, Chainbase enables a wide range of use cases—from DeFi analytics and smart contract automation to decentralized social platforms and advanced AI systems. Its omnichain network and Crypto World Model are designed to translate raw blockchain activity into structured insights, laying the foundation for a smarter, more connected Web3.

    Bitget continues to solidify its role as a top-tier cryptocurrency exchange, offering over 800 listed tokens across spot and derivatives markets. The addition of BOOM to Launchpool aligns with Bitget’s ongoing effort to support innovative projects whose value continues to evolve the ecosystem.

    Find more details on Chainbase, visit here.

    About Bitget

    Established in 2018, Bitget is the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company. Serving over 120 million users in 150+ countries and regions, the Bitget exchange is committed to helping users trade smarter with its pioneering copy trading feature and other trading solutions, while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, and other cryptocurrency prices. Formerly known as BitKeep, Bitget Wallet is a leading non-custodial crypto wallet supporting 130+ blockchains and millions of tokens. It offers multi-chain trading, staking, payments, and direct access to 20,000+ DApps, with advanced swaps and market insights built into a single platform. Bitget is at the forefront of driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships, such as its role as the Official Crypto Partner of the World’s Top Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA and LATAM markets, as well as a global partner of Turkish National athletes Buse Tosun Çavuşoğlu (Wrestling world champion), Samet Gümüş (Boxing gold medalist) and İlkin Aydın (Volleyball national team), to inspire the global community to embrace the future of cryptocurrency.

    For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Bitget Wallet

    For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com

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

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b4536f5f-1e3d-4a0f-8931-e63653cf4649

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Krishnamoorthi to Partner With Stevens, Carbajal to Introduce Bill Blocking Unilateral Military Deployments Against Peaceful Protesters

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (8th District of Illinois)

    Legislation comes after Trump deployed National Guard to LA, threatened to ramp up ICE enforcement in Chicago

    WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08) announced he would co-lead the Stop Trump’s Abuse of Power Act with Representatives Haley Stevens (MI-11) and Salud Carbajal (CA-24) to amend the Insurrection Act and limit the President’s ability to deploy active-duty military forces against peaceful protests without the request of a state’s elected leadership. The bill comes in direct response to former President Donald Trump’s recent deployment of U.S. Marines to Los Angeles in the absence of such a request, raising grave concerns about presidential overreach and the misuse of the armed forces for domestic suppression. In recent weeks, Trump and his administration have called to ramp up ICE deportation efforts in Chicago, going so far as to suggest that the city is “next” for a militarized crackdown. 

    “No American President should be able to unilaterally deploy active-duty troops against citizens who are exercising their right to peaceful protest. After watching President Trump send United States Marines into Los Angeles, it’s clear we need to strengthen the guardrails of our democracy to hold this administration accountable. I’m proud to join Representatives Stevens and Carbajal in introducing this legislation to reaffirm the foundational principle that the U.S. military serves to defend our freedoms, not suppress them.”

    The legislation would prohibit the President from unilaterally ordering active-duty military personnel into any U.S. state or territory to respond to peaceful protests or demonstrations unless explicitly requested by that state or territory’s governor or chief executive. The Stop Trump’s Abuse of Power Act reinforces constitutional checks on executive authority and protects the right to peaceful assembly by ensuring that domestic military deployments are not used to intimidate or silence political dissent.

    The text of the bill is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Krishnamoorthi Slams Senate Republicans For Passing Budget That Guts Social Safety Net And Slashes Medicaid To Bankroll Tax Breaks For Ultra-Wealthy

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (8th District of Illinois)

    SCHAUMBURG, IL – Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi issued the following statement in response to Senate Republicans passing their budget reconciliation bill:

    “Senate Republicans just rammed through a budget bill that guts our social safety net and slashes over $1 trillion from Medicaid—all to bankroll massive tax cuts for the ultra-wealthy. Millions will lose health care, families will go hungry, and the ultra-wealthy will cash in. This isn’t fiscal responsibility—it’s moral failure. I’ll fight this cruel betrayal of working Americans every step of the way.”

    MIL OSI USA News –