NewzIntel.com

Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI China: Aid allowed into Gaza ‘woefully inadequate’ to sustain life: UN

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

    A Palestinian child receives free food from a charity kitchen in Gaza City, on July 24, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The little aid allowed to reach supply facilities inside Gaza is “woefully inadequate” to curb starvation or sustain life-saving relief operations, UN humanitarians said Thursday.

    The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said that while UN teams were able to collect food aid, mainly flour, from Kerem Shalom/Karem Abu Salem and Zikim crossings on Wednesday, civilians still face death, injury, hunger, displacement and trauma amid the hostilities and inadequate access to food, water, health care and shelter.

    Following Israeli allegations that the world body and its partners were not collecting aid at the border crossing, OCHA listed the obstacles it faces in obtaining relief for Gazans.

    The humanitarian office said that challenges the United Nations and its partners face include bureaucratic, logistical, administrative and other operational obstacles imposed by Israeli authorities, ongoing hostilities, and access constraints within Gaza, including incidents of criminal looting and shooting that have killed and injured people gathering to offload aid supplies along convoy routes.

    OCHA said violence connected with aid distribution has put civilians and humanitarian staff at grave risk and forced aid agencies on many occasions to pause the collection of cargo from Israeli-controlled crossings.

    The office said that out of 16 attempts to coordinate movements with Israeli authorities on Wednesday, only eight were facilitated, including the collection and transfer of limited fuel. Two other movements were initially approved but then faced obstacles in Gaza.

    OCHA said its partners reported that more than 1 million children are bearing the brunt of deepening starvation and malnutrition, with reports of death from malnutrition increasing by the day.

    “According to partners working in nutrition, in the first two weeks of July, nearly 5,000 of the 56,000 children under the age of 5 screened for malnutrition in the governorates of Gaza, Deir al-Balah and Khan Younis were found to be acutely malnourished,” the humanitarians said, adding that the figure is a staggering 9 percent, compared with 6 percent in June and 2.4 percent in February.

    Philippe Lazzarini, commissioner-general of the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, said on Thursday that one in every five children in Gaza City is malnourished.

    OCHA said that families have been squeezed into just 12 percent of Gaza’s area, while the remaining 88 percent of the Gaza Strip now either falls within Israeli-militarized zones or has been placed under displacement orders.

    The office said the blockade on critical items, such as tents and other shelter materials, has lasted more than 20 weeks. The trickle of fuel now let in is also wholly insufficient.

    OCHA said that aid workers in Gaza who themselves are affected, displaced and going hungry insist on staying and providing life-saving assistance. They join voices across the UN system in continuing to call for a ceasefire and an end to the devastation.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China win first athletics gold, Walaza claims 200m gold at Universiade

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

    Long jumper Shu Heng leaped 8.09 meters to claim China’s first track and field gold medal, while South Africa’s teenage sprinting sensation Bayanda Walaza won his second gold in as many days Thursday at the Rhine-Ruhr World University Games.

    Shu Heng of China competes during the men’s long jump final at the Rhine-Ruhr 2025 FISU World University Games in Bochum, Germany, July 24, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Ying)

    Shu improved on his leading mark of 8.07 meters from the fourth round by two centimeters in his final attempt to win the event, 13cm shy of his 8.22m gold-winning performance at the Asian Athletics Championships in May.

    Japan’s Koki Fujihara finished second with 8.00m, edging Germany’s Luka Herden by four centimeters.

    “Every international competition helps strengthen my confidence. Winning the Asian championship boosted me mentally, and now winning at the University Games further paves the way and reinforces my confidence for bigger stages ahead,” said Shu.

    Another Chinese athlete, Xing Jialiang, the top qualifier in men’s shot put, earned silver with a throw of 20.08m, just 17cm behind South Africa’s Aiden Smith, who took gold. Italy’s Riccardo Ferrara claimed bronze with 17.91m.

    Walaza, 18, a Paris 2024 Olympian, was third fastest out of the blocks and surged past Spain’s Adria Alfonso Medero in the outer lane to win the men’s 200m final from lane seven. Walaza clocked 20.63 seconds to Medero’s 20.70, with South Korea’s Lee Jae-song taking bronze in 20.75.

    Walaza’s time was an improvement on his 20.93 in the heats and 20.76 in the semifinals earlier in the day.

    “It’s wonderful to say that I’m the fastest in all of the universities around the world. It’s a great honor to be here and to win this,” Walaza said after the race.

    “I arrived in Germany with not a lot of training under my belt, but I quickly convinced myself that I am a warrior and a fighter.”

    The reigning world U20 champion also won the men’s 100m on Tuesday in 10.16 seconds, edging Thailand’s Puripol Boonson (10.22), whom he had previously defeated in last year’s junior world final in Peru.

    Italy led the night’s medal haul with three golds from women’s track events.

    In the women’s 200m, Tokyo 2020 Olympian Vittoria Fontana ran a personal best of 22.79 seconds to take gold, bettering her previous mark of 22.97.

    Eloisa Coiro won the women’s 800m in 1:59.84 ahead of Switzerland’s Veronica Vancardo (2:00.08) and Spain’s Garcia Tena (2:00.12).

    Alice Muraro added Italy’s third track gold with a personal best of 54.60 in the women’s 400m hurdles. Michelle Smith of the U.S. Virgin Islands earned silver in 55.65 and Hungary’s Sara Mato took bronze in 55.92.

    Turkish Ozlem Becerek won the women’s discus with a season-best 61.15m. Sweden’s Ana Lindfors took silver at 58.80 and Germany’s Antonia Kinzel secured bronze with 58.43.

    Israel claimed its first athletics medal of the meet as Jonathan Kapitolnik won men’s high jump with a 2.27m clearance. Totsuki Abe delivered Japan’s first athletics gold by winning the men’s 110m hurdles in 13.47 seconds.

    Poland picked up two golds on the night. Filip Ostrowski won the men’s 1,500m in 3:46.10, and the Polish team captured the 4x400m mixed relay title with a season-best 3:15.18.

    In table tennis, China’s Zhao Shang swept past Huang Yu-jie of Chinese Taipei 4-0 to win women’s singles. Vladimir Sidorenko defeated Maksim Grebnev 4-1 in the men’s singles final between individual neutral athletes, concluding the table tennis competitions.

    In men’s basketball, Brazil and the United States advanced to Saturday’s final. Brazil edged host Germany 83-78, while Team USA overcame Lithuania 72-64.

    “When we’re making a bunch of mistakes and we’re down, we all come together and smile and stay positive and keep working hard. I am blessed from God to be in this position I am in,” said U.S. forward Daniel Skillings Jr., who had a game-high 17 points.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: British business leader: China’s innovation-driven growth provides new opportunities for global investors

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

    British business leader: China’s innovation-driven growth provides new opportunities for global investors

    This photo shows electric vertical take-off-and-landing (eVTOL) aircraft parking in a charging hangar at Luogang Park in Hefei, east China’s Anhui Province, July 2, 2025. (Xinhua/Zhou Mu)

    China is reshaping its growth model around strategic self-reliance, innovation-driven productivity, and systemic capabilities, which present fresh opportunities for foreign investors, said Jack Perry, Chairman of The 48 Group Club in Britain.

    In a recent interview with Xinhua, Perry highlighted China’s economic performance in the first half of 2025. He pointed to robust GDP growth, alongside the rapid expansion of the high-tech and equipment manufacturing sectors, the digital economy, and research and development investments. All of which, he said, underscores China’s pivot toward high-quality development.

    “China is not only rebalancing what it produces, but also how and why it produces,” Perry said. “There is a clear emphasis on integrated artificial intelligence (AI) deployment, green energy transformation, industrial sovereignty, and the dual-circulation model designed to weather geopolitical turbulence.”

    Perry praised China’s accelerating pace of innovation, asserting that the country is now a global leader in productivity and technological advancement. “AI is already being deployed at scale, robotics are being commercialized, and digital infrastructure is operational,” he noted. “China is executing a long-term strategy that other economies still only talk about.”

    A robot makes coffee at a booth at the 26th China High-Tech Fair (CHTF) in Shenzhen, south China’s Guangdong Province, Nov. 14, 2024. (Xinhua/Mao Siqian)

    As CEO of London Export Corporation, Perry noted growing global demand for Chinese innovations. “Companies across the Middle East, Europe, and South America are seeking high-quality, smart technologies from China, not because they are cheaper, but because they are better.”

    China’s vast and evolving consumer market also plays a pivotal role in shaping global product strategies, Perry added. With a growing middle-income population that is digitally integrated, quality-conscious, and values-driven, the Chinese market is driving a shift in how multinational firms design and adapt their products.

    “This is no longer about exporting to China,” he said. “It’s about designing with China.”

    He cited The 48 Group’s recent delegation visit to China’s Shandong, Zhejiang, and Beijing, where British companies were invited to co-develop new platforms with Chinese partners in areas such as smart retail and low-carbon urban logistics.

    Visitors view a car of Xiaomi SU7 series at the Zhongguancun Exhibition Center in Beijing, capital of China, June 20, 2025. (Xinhua/Ju Huanzong)

    In a time of rising protectionism and fragmented trade worldwide, Perry commended China’s continued commitment to openness. “While many economies are turning inward and building walls, China is doing the opposite. It is expanding partnerships, deepening trade ties, and strengthening global engagement,” he said.

    He pointed to initiatives such as the Belt and Road development and new trade agreements as evidence of China’s proactive approach.

    According to Perry, multinational corporations remain optimistic about China. “Some of the world’s most forward-looking companies are moving closer to China, not away. They recognize the scale, capability, and innovation ecosystem as essential to their own competitiveness.”

    He identified several sectors that offer significant opportunities for foreign investors, including AI compliance frameworks, energy infrastructure, robotics export services, smart mobility systems, and trusted commodity platforms.

    Jack Perry, chairman of the 48 Group Club, delivers a speech during the 2025 “Invest in China” UK Session in London, Britain, April 4, 2025. (Xinhua/Jia Yuchen) 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: SCO scholars expect better connectivity for regional development

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

    Participants of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Media and Think Tank Summit pose for photos outside the venue in Zhengzhou, central China’s Henan Province, July 24, 2025. Themed “Upholding the ‘Shanghai Spirit’ to Build a More Beautiful Home,” the SCO Media and Think Tank Summit is held here from July 23 to 27. (Xinhua/Wu Jingdan)

    Scholars from the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) countries are upbeat that greater connectivity will enhance cooperation and joint development, as they gathered in central China’s Henan Province to discuss the SCO’s role and sustainable development in a changing world.

    The ongoing SCO Media and Think Tank Summit is taking place in Zhengzhou, the capital of Henan, from Wednesday to Sunday. Co-hosted by Xinhua News Agency, the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS), and the Henan provincial government, the event has attracted more than 400 representatives from media outlets, think tanks and governments of 26 SCO countries, as well as international and regional organizations.

    Since its establishment in 2001 with a focus on security cooperation, the SCO has expanded from six member states to 10 member states with two observer states and 14 dialogue partners. The participating scholars believe that the SCO can support closer economic and people-to-people ties, creating a new pattern of regional cooperation.

    “The SCO possesses the practical conditions to become a new type of geo-economic entity,” said Sun Zhuangzhi, head of the Institute of Russian, Eastern European and Central Asian Studies under the CASS, at a think tank forum held at the summit on Thursday.

    Sun highlighted that with the accession of Iran and Belarus as member states, the SCO has the potential to develop multiple overland corridors, which can support regional economic prosperity.

    As a key Eurasia hub, the SCO can establish an open and efficient transportation system, significantly contributing to economic development and connectivity across the continent, he added.

    Cholpon Koichumanova, a senior scholar at Kyrgyz State University named after I. Arabaev, remarked that the SCO has gained increased influence and respect over the past few years, demonstrating its relevance in global processes.

    “In the context of global transformations and shifting values, economic cooperation between Central Asia and China is especially important,” she said, noting that the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan Railway will play a critical role not just for the countries involved but also for infrastructure development and mutual ties enhancement across Central Asia.

    Economic connectivity has evidently grown within the SCO since its establishment. China’s customs data show that from 2001 to 2020, the share of global trade of SCO member states rose from 5.4 percent to 17.5 percent. In 2024, trade between China and other SCO member states, observers and dialogue partners reached a record 890 billion U.S. dollars.

    Zhang Ting, a senior researcher at the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation with China’s Ministry of Commerce, said that while the potential for economic cooperation among SCO members continues to be unleashed, there remains a shortage in connectivity regarding infrastructure and digital trade.

    “Such factors have limited deeper regional economic integration and development,” she said.

    She thus suggested strengthening policy research collaboration to build an institutional framework for coordinated regional development based on the sustainable development strategies of member states, and deepening research in key areas such as the digital economy, green development, and industrial chain cooperation.

    Hassan Daud Butt, a senior associate professor at Bahria University in Pakistan, highlighted the importance of regional connectivity and integration in transforming underperforming regions into centers of opportunity.

    Butt regards the SCO as a critical framework for inclusive globalization, where “development is attuned to regional realities while connected to global opportunities,” in a world striving to balance resilience with openness.

    Therefore, he anticipates that the SCO framework will not only promote trade and logistics but, more importantly, empower and connect people, with a focus on quality, sustainability, digital and green connectivity.

    Kin Phea, director general of the International Relations Institute of Cambodia, Royal Academy of Cambodia, recommended leveraging digital technologies to encourage shared knowledge and real-time cooperation. This includes the establishment of a shared digital platform for media and research institutions.

    He also advised inclusive dialogue mechanisms that facilitate the exchange and cooperation among municipal authorities, think tanks, and academic institutions of the SCO countries in specific sectors such as urban innovation and public health.

    According to Sun Zhuangzhi, as the SCO has entered a “relatively mature stage of development,” it should shift from emphasizing the construction of consultation mechanisms to focusing more on action-oriented mechanisms, with measures to build a community with a shared future within the SCO framework.

    Building a community with a shared future under the SCO is a shared aspiration of countries in the region, and also a long-term task, Sun said.

    “Based on broad consensus, member states need to deepen practical cooperation across political, security, economic and cultural fields to gradually turn this vision into reality,” he said. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China, EU leaders chart course for future cooperation amid global challenges 2025-07-25 10:17:22 As China and the European Union mark the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic ties, Chinese President Xi Jinping has made new propositions on how the two sides can navigate a fast-changing and turbulent world through partnership, cooperation and multilateralism.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense

    Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with President of the European Council Antonio Costa and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, who are in China for the 25th China-EU Summit, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, July 24, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Xiang)

    BEIJING, July 24 (Xinhua) — As China and the European Union mark the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic ties, Chinese President Xi Jinping has made new propositions on how the two sides can navigate a fast-changing and turbulent world through partnership, cooperation and multilateralism.

    China-EU relations have come to another critical juncture in their history, Xi said on Thursday, calling on Chinese and European leaders to once again demonstrate vision and leadership, and to provide more stability and certainty for the world through sound, steady China-EU relations.

    The Chinese leader made the remarks when meeting with President of the European Council Antonio Costa and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, both of whom are in Beijing to attend the 25th China-EU Summit.

    For the future development of China-EU relations, Xi made three proposals: The two sides should uphold mutual respect and consolidate the positioning of China-EU relations as partnership; uphold openness and cooperation and properly manage differences; practice multilateralism and uphold international rules and order.

    On the same day, Chinese Premier Li Qiang co-chaired the summit with Costa and von der Leyen, with both sides pledging to promote cooperation on the economy, trade and investment.

    After the summit, Li and von der Leyen attended the China-EU Business Leaders Symposium, at which some 60 business leaders were present.

    UPHOLDING MUTUAL RESPECT

    Xi said that China and the EU should uphold mutual respect and consolidate the positioning of China-EU relations as partnership.

    Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with President of the European Council Antonio Costa and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, who are in China for the 25th China-EU Summit, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, July 24, 2025. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)

    The current challenges facing the EU do not come from China, and there are no fundamental conflicts of interest or geopolitical contradictions between China and the EU, Xi said. The fundamentals and prevailing trend of China-EU relations featuring cooperation over competition and consensus over differences have remained constant.

    China has regarded the EU as an important pole in a multipolar world, and consistently supported European integration and the strategic autonomy of the EU, he said, voicing hope that the EU will respect the path and system chosen by the Chinese people, respect China’s core interests and major concerns, and support its development and prosperity.

    He called on both sides to deepen strategic communication, enhance understanding and mutual trust, and foster a correct perception of each other.

    Echoing the Chinese leaders’ remarks, the EU side affirmed its commitment to deepening EU-China relations, managing differences in a constructive manner, and achieving more positive outcomes in bilateral cooperation that is balanced, reciprocal and mutually beneficial.

    ADHERING TO OPENNESS, COOPERATION

    China and the EU should uphold openness and cooperation, and properly manage differences and frictions, Xi said, adding that history and reality show that interdependency is not a risk, and convergent interests are not a threat.

    He said that “reducing dependency” should not lead to reducing China-EU cooperation, and the bilateral economic and trade relationship, which is by nature complementary and mutually beneficial, can indeed achieve dynamic equilibrium through development.

    China’s high-quality development and opening-up will provide new opportunities and potentials for China-EU cooperation, Xi noted.

    It is hoped that the EU can remain open in trade and investment market, refrain from using restrictive economic and trade tools, and foster a sound business environment for Chinese enterprises investing and operating in the EU, he stressed.

    China welcomes more European businesses to invest and pursue long-term operations in China, Premier Li said, calling on the EU to provide a fair, equitable and non-discriminatory environment for Chinese enterprises investing in Europe.

    Li said both sides can forge an “upgraded version” of the China-EU export control dialogue mechanism to ensure the stability of industrial and supply chains between China and Europe.

    The EU side noted that the EU does not seek “decoupling and severing supply chains” and welcomes Chinese enterprises to invest and operate in Europe.

    Feng Zhongping, director of the Institute of European Studies at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, said that China-EU cooperation aligns with the fundamental interests of both sides, carries profound global significance, and will provide certainty and stability for the world.

    PRACTICING MULTILATERALISM

    Confronted with the critical choice between war and peace, competition and cooperation, or seclusion and openness, multilateralism and solidarity-based cooperation remain the only viable approach, Xi said.

    He said that China and the EU should practice multilateralism, and uphold international rules and order.

    Xi said China and the EU should jointly uphold the international rules and order established after World War II, advance a more just and equitable global governance system in keeping with the times, and work together to address global challenges such as climate change.

    He said China stands ready to strengthen coordination with the EU to ensure the success of this year’s UN Climate Change Conference in Belem (COP30), and contribute more to global climate response and green transition.

    The EU leaders called on the two sides, faced with a turbulent and uncertain world, to uphold multilateralism, safeguard the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, address global challenges such as climate change, facilitate resolutions to regional hotspot issues, and safeguard world peace and stability.

    On the same day, leaders of China and the EU issued a joint statement on climate change, in which they recognized that strengthening China-EU cooperation on the issue will impact the well-being of people on both sides, and is of great and special significance to upholding multilateralism and advancing global climate governance.

    Wang Yiwei, director of the Institute of International Affairs at Renmin University of China, said that China-EU relations go beyond mere bilateral ties and are of great importance to safeguarding international law and order, and to upholding the international system with the UN at its core.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: City Cast Las Vegas Podcast: Why Sen. Rosen Says Trump’s Bill Is Screwing Over Las Vegans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

    LAS VEGAS, NV – This week, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) joined the City Cast Las Vegas podcast for a conversation about the devastating impacts that Donald Trump’s extreme tax-and-spending “Big Beautiful Bill” will have on Southern Nevada. With the help of Republicans in Congress, Trump pushed through a bill that will gut access to health care, cut funding for hospitals and food assistance programs, and even harm Nevada’s gaming industry. 
    City Cast Las Vegas: Why Sen. Rosen Says Trump’s Bill Is Screwing Over Las Vegans
    Below are quotes from Senator Rosen throughout the episode:

    On the cuts from the Republican law: “Hospitals are closing, kids are getting kicked off of Medicaid, seniors are getting kicked out of nursing homes, people aren’t going to get their school lunches and food, the list goes on and on. And the real plot twist is this: billionaires get more money.”
    On hospital funding cuts: “UMC is our level one trauma center, our public university hospital. They’re going to lose 45-50 million dollars. What does that mean? Well, it’s a Level One Trauma Center. God forbid you get in an accident and you go there, there will be less doctors, less nurses, less services. 45-50 million bucks is a big hit on a community hospital.”
    On SNAP cuts: “One in five kids in Nevada is food insecure. One in five. That’s a pretty high number. We think about school lunch and breakfast programs, and we think about their families and how over 130,000 Nevadans get SNAP. In the wealthiest nation in the world, kids will go hungry and families will go hungry, all to give money to Trump’s billionaire buddies? It’s despicable.”
    On new Republican tax on gambling: “This doesn’t only hurt Nevada, it hurts everyone… It’s going to hurt our gambling industry all across the nation.”
    On No Tax On Tips: “I put myself through college as a waitress. I know how hard it is to live on tips. Something that people don’t understand is that tips are variable. You could work a shift and not make enough money for the day. What we wanted to do was introduce the no tax on tips bill on its own so that Republicans in the House couldn’t tie it to Medicaid and snap cuts.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Gangs are going global and so is the illegal gun trade – NZ can do more to fight it

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alexander Gillespie, Professor of Law, University of Waikato

    According to the Global Organised Crime Index, international criminal activity has increased over the past two years. And the politically fractured post-pandemic world has made this even harder for nations to combat.

    New Zealand is far from immune. According to official advice in late March to Minister of Customs and Associate Minister of Police Casey Costello:

    The threat posed by organised crime in New Zealand has increased substantially in the last five years. Even with the best of will, New Zealand is losing the fight.

    New criminal groups are becoming active here – from Burma via Malaysia, to the Comancheros and Mongols gangs. Each brings new networks, violent tactics and the potential to corrupt institutions in New Zealand and throughout the Pacific.

    As of October 2024, the national gang list contained 9,460 names. While there is debate about the accuracy of the figures, gang membership has grown considerably. This is fuelled by the global trade in illegal drugs, with local criminal profits conservatively estimated at NZ$500–600 million annually.

    The one relative bright spot is that New Zealand hasn’t yet seen the levels of firearms-related violence driven by organised crime overseas. For example, European research shows the illegal trade in guns and drugs becoming increasingly intertwined.

    But waiting to catch up with those trends should not be an option. New Zealand already has a lot firearms. In the past six years, police conducting routine patrols have reportedly encountered 17,000 guns, or nearly ten every day, nationwide.

    In 2022, official figures showed, on average, approximately one firearms offence had been committed daily by gang members since 2019.

    The risk had become apparent much earlier, in 2016, with the discovery of fourteen military assault-grade AK47s and M16s in an Auckland house being used to manufacture methamphetamine. This year, another firearms cache, including assault rifles and semiautomatics, was found in Auckland.

    Progress and problems

    On the legal front, the main avenues New Zealand gangs use to obtain illegal firearms are being closed off. Under the Arms Act, members or close affiliates of a gang or an organised criminal group cannot be considered “fit and proper” to lawfully possess a firearm.

    These people may have specific firearms prohibition orders added against them, which allow the police additional powers to ensure firearms don’t fall into the wrong hands.

    The firearms registry is key to this. There are now more than 400,000 firearms fully accounted for, making it harder for so-called “straw buyers” to onsell them to gangs.

    Despite the progress, several challenges remain. In particular, the nature of the gun registry has been politicised, with the ACT and National parties disagreeing over a review of the system’s scope.

    Arguments over the types of firearms covered and which agency looks after the registry risk undermining its central purpose of preventing criminals getting guns.

    Theft of firearms from lawful owners needs more attention, too. Making it a specific offence – not just illegal possession – would be an added deterrent.

    Tighter and targeted policy

    Accounting for all the estimated 1.5 million firearms in New Zealand will be very difficult – especially with the buy-back and amnesty for prohibited firearms after the Christchurch terror attack likely being far from complete.

    There are also tens of thousands of non-prohibited firearms in the hands of unlicensed but not necessarily criminal owners.

    Given all firearms must be registered by the end of August 2028, there should be another buy-back (at market rates) of all guns that should be on the register. This might be expensive, but the cost of opening a large pipeline to criminals would be worse.

    There needs to be greater investment in staff, education and technology within intelligence services and customs. This will help inform evidence-based policy, and support targeted law enforcement. A recent European Union initiative to track gun violence in real time is an example of how data can help in this way.

    New Zealand is a party to the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organised Crime (and its two protocols on people trafficking and migrant smuggling). But it is not a party to a supplementary protocol covering the illicit manufacturing and trafficking of firearms and ammunition.

    That should change. Amendments to the Arms Act since 2019 mean New Zealand law and policy fit the protocol perfectly. By joining, New Zealand could strengthen regional cooperation and increase public safety, given the scale of the problem and its potential to get worse.

    Alexander Gillespie is a member of the Ministerial Arms Advisory Group (MAAG). He is also the 2024 recipient of the Borrin Justice Fellowship, and is researching revision of the NZ Arms Act. His views and opinions here are independent of both the MAAG and the Borrin Foundation.

    – ref. Gangs are going global and so is the illegal gun trade – NZ can do more to fight it – https://theconversation.com/gangs-are-going-global-and-so-is-the-illegal-gun-trade-nz-can-do-more-to-fight-it-261827

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for July 25, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on July 25, 2025.

    Gangs are going global and so is the illegal gun trade – NZ can do more to fight it
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alexander Gillespie, Professor of Law, University of Waikato According to the Global Organised Crime Index, international criminal activity has increased over the past two years. And the politically fractured post-pandemic world has made this even harder for nations to combat. New Zealand is far from immune. According

    Historic ICJ climate ruling ‘just the beginning’, says Vanuatu’s Regenvanu
    By Ezra Toara in Port Vila Vanuatu’s Minister of Climate Change Adaptation, Ralph Regenvanu, has welcomed the historic International Court of Justice (ICJ) climate ruling, calling it a “milestone in the fight for climate justice”. The ICJ has delivered a landmark advisory opinion on states’ obligations under international law to act on climate change. The

    3 reasons young people are more likely to believe conspiracy theories – and how we can help them discover the truth
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jean-Nicolas Bordeleau, Research Fellow, Jeff Bleich Centre for Democracy and Disruptive Technologies, Flinders University Conspiracy theories are a widespread occurrence in today’s hyper connected and polarised world. Events such as Brexit, the 2016 and 2020 United States presidential elections, and the COVID pandemic serve as potent reminders

    Waiting too long for public dental care? Here’s why the system is struggling – and how to fix it
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Santosh Tadakamadla, Professor and Head of Dentistry and Oral Health, La Trobe University Just over one-third of Australians are eligible for public dental services, which provide free or low cost dental treatment. Yet demand for these services continues to exceed supply. As a result, many Australian adults

    Butter wars: ‘nothing cures high prices like high prices’ – but will market forces be enough?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alan Renwick, Professor of Agricultural Economics, Lincoln University, New Zealand RobynRoper/Getty Images The alarming rise of butter prices has become a real source of frustration for New Zealand consumers, as well as a topic of political recrimination. The issue has become so serious that Miles Hurrell, chief

    Ultrafast fashion brand Princess Polly has been certified as ‘sustainable’. Is that an oxymoron?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Harriette Richards, Senior Lecturer, School of Fashion and Textiles, RMIT University Carol Yepes/Getty Images Last week, the ultrafast fashion brand Princess Polly received B Corp certification. This certification is designed to accredit for-profit businesses that provide social impact and environmental benefit. Established on the Gold Coast in

    AI will soon be able to audit all published research – what will that mean for public trust in science?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alexander Kaurov, PhD Candidate in Science and Society, Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington Jamillah Knowles & Digit/Better Images of AI, CC BY-SA Self-correction is fundamental to science. One of its most important forms is peer review, when anonymous experts scrutinise research before it is

    Columbia’s $200M deal with Trump administration sets a precedent for other universities to bend to the government’s will
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Brendan Cantwell, Associate Professor of Higher, Adult, and Lifelong Education, Michigan State University Students at Columbia University in New York City on April 14, 2025. Charly Triballeau/AFP via Getty Images Columbia University agreed on July 23, 2025, to pay a US$200 million fine to the federal government

    Miles Franklin 2025: Siang Lu’s Ghost Cities is a haunting comedy about tyranny. Is it the funniest winner ever?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Joseph Steinberg, Forrest Foundation Postdoctoral Fellow, English & Literary Studies, The University of Western Australia Siang Lu David Kelly/UQP The Miles Franklin judges described Siang Lu’s Ghost Cities, winner of the 2025 award, as “a grand farce and a haunting meditation on diaspora”. To my mind, it

    Keep fighting for a nuclear-free Pacific, Helen Clark warns Greenpeace over global storm clouds
    Asia Pacific Report Former New Zealand prime minister Helen Clark warned activists and campaigners in a speech on the deck of the Greenpeace environmental flagship Rainbow Warrior III last night to be wary of global “storm clouds” and the renewed existential threat of nuclear weapons. Speaking on her reflections on four decades after the bombing

    Business coalition calls for 25% cut in the cost of red tape by 2030
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra Business, universities, and investors have jointly urged the federal government to commit to cutting the cost of red tape by 25% by 2030, in a submission for next month’s Economic Reform Roundtable. The push to reduce regulation is in line

    Grattan on Friday: net zero battle has net zero positives for Sussan Ley
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra There’s no other way of looking at it: Sussan Ley faces a diabolical situation with the debate over whether the Coalition should abandon the 2050 net zero emissions target. The issue is a microcosm of her wider problems. The Nationals,

    The Murray–Darling Basin Plan Evaluation is out. The next step is to fix the land, not just the flows
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michael Stewardson, CEO One Basin CRC, The University of Melbourne Yarramalong Weir is one of many barriers to the passage of fish in the Murray-Darling Basin. Geoff Reid, One Basin CRC A report card into the A$13 billion Murray–Darling Basin Plan has found much work is needed

    The Murray–Darling Basin Plan Evaluation is out. The next step is to fix the land, not just the flows
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michael Stewardson, CEO One Basin CRC, The University of Melbourne Yarramalong Weir is one of many barriers to the passage of fish in the Murray-Darling Basin. Geoff Reid, One Basin CRC A report card into the A$13 billion Murray–Darling Basin Plan has found much work is needed

    Reserve Bank says unemployment rise was not a shock, inflation on track
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Hawkins, Head, Canberra School of Government, University of Canberra Reserve Bank Governor Michele Bullock has fleshed out the central bank’s thinking behind its surprise decision to keep interest rates on hold this month. In a speech today to the Anika Foundation, Bullock said there has been:

    Reserve Bank says unemployment rise was not a shock, inflation on track
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Hawkins, Head, Canberra School of Government, University of Canberra Reserve Bank Governor Michele Bullock has fleshed out the central bank’s thinking behind its surprise decision to keep interest rates on hold this month. In a speech today to the Anika Foundation, Bullock said there has been:

    Israel waging ‘horror show’ starvation campaign in Gaza, says UN chief
    This is Democracy Now!. I’m Amy Goodman. More than 100 humanitarian groups are demanding action to end Israel’s siege of Gaza, warning mass starvation is spreading across the Palestinian territory. The NGOs, including Amnesty International, Oxfam, Doctors Without Borders, warn, “illnesses like acute watery diarrhea are spreading, markets are empty, waste is piling up, and

    Israel waging ‘horror show’ starvation campaign in Gaza, says UN chief
    This is Democracy Now!. I’m Amy Goodman. More than 100 humanitarian groups are demanding action to end Israel’s siege of Gaza, warning mass starvation is spreading across the Palestinian territory. The NGOs, including Amnesty International, Oxfam, Doctors Without Borders, warn, “illnesses like acute watery diarrhea are spreading, markets are empty, waste is piling up, and

    Historic ruling finds climate change ‘imperils all forms of life’ and puts laggard nations on notice
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jacqueline Peel, Professor of Law and Director, Melbourne Climate Futures, The University of Melbourne Hilaire Bule/Getty Climate change “imperils all forms of life” and countries must tackle the problem or face consequences under international law, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) has found. The court delivered its

    Jet ski accidents are tragic but preventable. Here’s how to reduce the risk
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Milad Haghani, Associate Professor & Principal Fellow in Urban Risk & Resilience, The University of Melbourne Richard Hamilton Smith/Getty Two teenage boys were thrown from a jet ski during a ride on the Georges River in Sydney’s south this week. One died at the scene. The other

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: What makes a song ‘Australian’? Triple J’s Hottest 100 reignites a bigger question of national identity

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Catherine Strong, Associate Professor, Music Industry, RMIT University

    On July 26, Triple J will broadcast the Hottest 100 Australian Songs, as voted by the public. While predictions for winners and even preemptive complaining about the shortlist are taking up column space and social media posts, there is an underlying question: what we mean when we talk about “Australian songs”?

    Do these songs sound a particular way? Do they express something about what it means to be Australian? Or is it purely about where the artist was born?

    Importantly, how will each of these factors influence voting?

    Can a song sound Australian?

    Musical cultures with their own unique sounds have existed on this continent for tens of thousands of years. The sound of the didgeridoo is often used as a shorthand to signify Australianness in films, television and, to a lesser extent, popular songs.

    However, the history of dispossession and genocidal practices that have accompanied settlement in Australia means much has been lost from these musical traditions. Indigenous performers have been actively excluded from the same music-making spaces where other songs we think of as “Australian” have been created.

    Since British colonisation in the late 18th century, Australian music has also been part of global music flows. Settlers arrived with songs and musical influences from their own cultures. Jazz, country, rock and pop inspired local versions of these genres.

    But is there anything truly Australian about such music, or is it just imitation? And this conundrum connects to wider issues of Australia’s identity debated during the 20th century: was it a country, or still just a colony?

    Back in the 1970s, this question was also on then prime minister Gough Whitlams’s mind. After his election in 1972, Whitlam gave a huge boost to funding for cultural and creative activities to “help establish and express an Australian identity through the arts”, as part of a suite of nation-building activities.

    Building the pub rock canon

    The dirty guitar sounds of the pub rock scene of the 1970s, with its associated subcultures, are sometimes said to be Australia’s first distinct offering in post-rock ‘n’ roll music.

    This was followed by the rise of bands such as Midnight Oil and Cold Chisel, who found success not just by drawing on more local sounds, but also by referencing Australian places, politics and cultures.

    The Whitlam government’s broadcasting reforms meant this music had homes on community radio and the new youth station 2JJ (now Triple J).

    The bands from this era have come to make up what might be described as the Oz rock canon – a collection of works seen to make up the “best” of the art form. Canons exert a strong influence over how we assess music, meaning these bands will probably appear in the tomorrow’s countdown.

    This idea of the rock canon is almost perfectly reflected in the ten entries by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to tomorrow’s countdown. His selection of almost 100% white male musicians encapsulates the exclusionary nature rock of this period.

    The fact that our last two prime ministers, despite being from opposite sides of politics, produced very similar lists, gives us insight into the persistence of this canon, and what ideas about “Australian culture” circulate in the halls of power.

    It’s questionable whether any of the bands or songs on Albanese’s list could be said to have a coherent “Australian” sound, yet they have come to hold a place in the national imagination.

    Changing canons and new sounds

    Triple J’s Hottest 100 of All Time in 2009 was seen as a surprising recapitulation of the (male) rock canon, especially given the station’s otherwise diverse playlists.

    However, the highest-placed Australian song on the list was The Nosebleed Section by Hilltop Hoods, representing the recent and rapid rise of Aussie hip-hop.

    The 2011 Hottest 100 Australian Albums of All Time (the closest forerunner to the current poll) further updated the canon, with Powderfinger’s Odyssey Number Five (2000) in the top spot, and other top ten entries by electronic groups The Presets and The Avalanches.

    Nonetheless, the canon remained male dominated, with the highest woman-fronted album being Missy Higgins’s The Sound of White (2004) at number 29.

    The past decade has seen a boom in Indigenous representation on Australian airwaves and stages, with artists such as Thelma Plum, Barkaa, A.B. Original and Baker Boy.

    These artists use a range of genres and styles to express pride in their Indigeneity, and critique Australian identity. A.B. Original’s song January 26 was number 17 in 2016’s Hottest 100 countdown. This was also the last year Triple J chose this date for its annual broadcast, speaking to the power of music to reflect – and even inform – popular sentiment.

    Given recent national debates, a strong contender for the upcoming poll is Treaty (Radio Mix) by Yothu Yindi (which ranked number 11 of all time in 1991). These shifts show how canons can be unsettled over time.

    What if we don’t all agree?

    Recently, Creative Australia came under fire for trying to stifle Khaled Sabsabi’s politically-informed art in the interests of “social cohesion”.

    But others pointed out art provides crucial space for challenging prevailing ideas, and that social cohesion in a democracy is not about reaching complete agreement, but being able to handle disagreement.

    A Hottest 100 that reflects the diversity and even the tensions in Australian society may provoke arguments, but it is in these spaces that we can reflect on what it means to live on these lands.

    Ben Green receives funding from the Australian Research Council and the Australasian Performing Right Association.

    Catherine Strong 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. What makes a song ‘Australian’? Triple J’s Hottest 100 reignites a bigger question of national identity – https://theconversation.com/what-makes-a-song-australian-triple-js-hottest-100-reignites-a-bigger-question-of-national-identity-261560

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy introduces bill to open door to homeownership for American families

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)

    WASHINGTON – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.), a member of the Senate Banking Committee, today introduced the Build Now Act, which would incentivize new home construction by tying federal funds to cities’ rates of homebuilding. Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ranking Member of the Senate Banking Committee, joined Kennedy in introducing the bill.

    “In my book, homeownership shouldn’t be a pipe dream for the average American family. Unfortunately, not everyone agrees with me. Government overregulation has brought homebuilding to a grinding halt and left ordinary people twisting in the wind as existing home prices went through the roof. I’m proud to introduce the Build Now Act to discourage pointless roadblocks and incentivize cities to help make the American Dream possible again,” said Kennedy. 

    “Americans are suffering under sky-high housing prices caused by a worsening housing shortage. The Federal government should use the tools at our disposal to reward communities that are taking bold action to build more housing and reduce families’ biggest monthly expense. It’s time for Congress to act—and this bipartisan proposal is a call to action to communities across the country to build housing now,” said Warren.

    The United States today faces a housing crisis. Since 2021, the annual income needed to qualify for a mortgage has increased by 60%, driving the median age of a first-time home buyer to a record-high 38 years old.

    By May 2025, new home construction rates had collapsed to their lowest level since the pandemic. On an annual basis, new home construction has fallen nearly 5%. 

    Currently, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)’s Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG) provides annual grants to states, cities and counties irrespective of their rate of homebuilding.

    The Build Now Act would:

    • Require HUD to remove 10% of CDBG funding from cities that fail to improve their rate of homebuilding above the national median.
    • Order HUD to proportionally reallocate those CDBG funds to cities that exceeded the national median rate of homebuilding. Under the Build Now Act, cities with the highest rates of growth would receive larger shares as funds are reallocated.
    • Allow metropolitan areas two years to start building homes before HUD determines their level of CDBG funding.

    The bill would not apply to cities where the median home value is below the national median or cities that issued an emergency disaster declaration in the last year.

    In his role on the Senate Banking Committee, Kennedy has championed the cause of making homeownership easier for families, raising the issue frequently during recent hearings:

    • In Jan. 2025, Kennedy questioned then-HUD Secretary nominee Scott Turner about the failures of previous affordable housing policies. During this hearing, he suggested an approach that would incentivize localities to allow more new home construction without affording excessive power to the federal government.
    • At a hearing one week later, Kennedy outlined a potential “carrot-and-stick” system that would spur new home construction while allowing local governments to determine their exact means of doing so.
    • In Feb. 2025, Kennedy questioned then-Director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency nominee Bill Pulte on the consequences of Americans borrowing large amounts of money to buy homes, noting that “we’ve got a house of cards here.”

    Full text of the bill is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China, EU leaders chart course for future cooperation amid global challenges

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

    Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with President of the European Council Antonio Costa and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, who are in China for the 25th China-EU Summit, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, July 24, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Xiang)

    As China and the European Union mark the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic ties, Chinese President Xi Jinping has made new propositions on how the two sides can navigate a fast-changing and turbulent world through partnership, cooperation and multilateralism.

    China-EU relations have come to another critical juncture in their history, Xi said on Thursday, calling on Chinese and European leaders to once again demonstrate vision and leadership, and to provide more stability and certainty for the world through sound, steady China-EU relations.

    The Chinese leader made the remarks when meeting with President of the European Council Antonio Costa and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, both of whom are in Beijing to attend the 25th China-EU Summit.

    For the future development of China-EU relations, Xi made three proposals: The two sides should uphold mutual respect and consolidate the positioning of China-EU relations as partnership; uphold openness and cooperation and properly manage differences; practice multilateralism and uphold international rules and order.

    On the same day, Chinese Premier Li Qiang co-chaired the summit with Costa and von der Leyen, with both sides pledging to promote cooperation on the economy, trade and investment.

    After the summit, Li and von der Leyen attended the China-EU Business Leaders Symposium, at which some 60 business leaders were present.

    UPHOLDING MUTUAL RESPECT

    Xi said that China and the EU should uphold mutual respect and consolidate the positioning of China-EU relations as partnership.

    Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with President of the European Council Antonio Costa and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, who are in China for the 25th China-EU Summit, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, July 24, 2025. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)

    The current challenges facing the EU do not come from China, and there are no fundamental conflicts of interest or geopolitical contradictions between China and the EU, Xi said. The fundamentals and prevailing trend of China-EU relations featuring cooperation over competition and consensus over differences have remained constant.

    China has regarded the EU as an important pole in a multipolar world, and consistently supported European integration and the strategic autonomy of the EU, he said, voicing hope that the EU will respect the path and system chosen by the Chinese people, respect China’s core interests and major concerns, and support its development and prosperity.

    He called on both sides to deepen strategic communication, enhance understanding and mutual trust, and foster a correct perception of each other.

    Echoing the Chinese leaders’ remarks, the EU side affirmed its commitment to deepening EU-China relations, managing differences in a constructive manner, and achieving more positive outcomes in bilateral cooperation that is balanced, reciprocal and mutually beneficial.

    ADHERING TO OPENNESS, COOPERATION

    China and the EU should uphold openness and cooperation, and properly manage differences and frictions, Xi said, adding that history and reality show that interdependency is not a risk, and convergent interests are not a threat.

    He said that “reducing dependency” should not lead to reducing China-EU cooperation, and the bilateral economic and trade relationship, which is by nature complementary and mutually beneficial, can indeed achieve dynamic equilibrium through development.

    China’s high-quality development and opening-up will provide new opportunities and potentials for China-EU cooperation, Xi noted.

    It is hoped that the EU can remain open in trade and investment market, refrain from using restrictive economic and trade tools, and foster a sound business environment for Chinese enterprises investing and operating in the EU, he stressed.

    China welcomes more European businesses to invest and pursue long-term operations in China, Premier Li said, calling on the EU to provide a fair, equitable and non-discriminatory environment for Chinese enterprises investing in Europe.

    Li said both sides can forge an “upgraded version” of the China-EU export control dialogue mechanism to ensure the stability of industrial and supply chains between China and Europe.

    The EU side noted that the EU does not seek “decoupling and severing supply chains” and welcomes Chinese enterprises to invest and operate in Europe.

    Feng Zhongping, director of the Institute of European Studies at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, said that China-EU cooperation aligns with the fundamental interests of both sides, carries profound global significance, and will provide certainty and stability for the world.

    PRACTICING MULTILATERALISM

    Confronted with the critical choice between war and peace, competition and cooperation, or seclusion and openness, multilateralism and solidarity-based cooperation remain the only viable approach, Xi said.

    He said that China and the EU should practice multilateralism, and uphold international rules and order.

    Xi said China and the EU should jointly uphold the international rules and order established after World War II, advance a more just and equitable global governance system in keeping with the times, and work together to address global challenges such as climate change.

    He said China stands ready to strengthen coordination with the EU to ensure the success of this year’s UN Climate Change Conference in Belem (COP30), and contribute more to global climate response and green transition.

    The EU leaders called on the two sides, faced with a turbulent and uncertain world, to uphold multilateralism, safeguard the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, address global challenges such as climate change, facilitate resolutions to regional hotspot issues, and safeguard world peace and stability.

    On the same day, leaders of China and the EU issued a joint statement on climate change, in which they recognized that strengthening China-EU cooperation on the issue will impact the well-being of people on both sides, and is of great and special significance to upholding multilateralism and advancing global climate governance.

    Wang Yiwei, director of the Institute of International Affairs at Renmin University of China, said that China-EU relations go beyond mere bilateral ties and are of great importance to safeguarding international law and order, and to upholding the international system with the UN at its core.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: King Criticizes VA Nominee for Harmful “Ready, Fire, Aim” Contract Terminations

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Angus King
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME), in a hearing of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee (SVAC), questioned a Trump Administration nominee about the reckless approach it’s taking to contract and staff reductions at the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (VA). In his exchange with John Bartrum, Nominee to be Under Secretary for Health, King reasoned that it is virtually impossible to make dramatic, across-the-board reductions with thought, care and precision while protecting care for veterans because of the speed in which the reductions are happening.
    Senator King began, “I’ve done a little examination, this is full of contracts for nursing services, nursing home services you mentioned prosthetics, probably a dozen prosthetics contracts being canceled. It is hard for me to believe that all of these are unnecessary contracts. $13 billion worth of contracts. It worries me is that there seems to be a pattern of ready, fire, aim at Veterans’ Affairs. You started with hiring freeze applying to everybody, then, oh no, it doesn’t apply to medical people. That was a good decision, but it should not have been, it shouldn’t have been made in the first place. Then it was 83,000 people are going to be fired by the end of the year, now it is 30,000, not fired, but we are going to downsize by 30,000. And I just wonder if upon review, I can’t believe all 16,000 of these contracts, and then the email, of course, lists three or four ones that we would all say, okay, those probably aren’t necessary but prosthetics contracts, nursing contracts, nursing home contracts, it really bothers me. Mr. Bartrum, you mentioned we don’t have a good staffing model. That may well be true, but I think you should start with the staffing model and then decide what the right size of the staff is. Not start with 30,000 or a month ago, it was 83,000 and work backwards. Do you see what I’m saying? Analyze the staff, do the staffing model, determine what you need and then make those decisions instead of starting with what amounts to a quota, and reverse engineering. Give me some thoughts about that.
    “Senator King, I don’t disagree with the way using analytics to determine what you need for staffing, building to the staffing, which is why my earlier comment was, I really want to work on our staffing and what the staffing should be. On your question about the contracts, a lot of those we also found that we had multiple contracts in multiple areas for similar things and we could also consolidate into more regional and national contracts. Where you see some contracts that might be terminated on the list, there may be additional contracts expanded out or scope changed to renegotiate it into a regional contract because you have the same contractor in some cases providing service in certain areas,” Bartrum replied.
    Senator King replied, “It is hard for me to believe in the time we have had in the last few months, this list of 16,000 contracts has had the kind of careful review that, I will predict, that a month or two from now there will be another memo saying, well, there are a bunch of contracts we are not going to cut or eliminate. I want to see more planning before the decisions are made that could so significantly affect veteran care.”
    Representing one of the states with the highest rates of military families and veterans per capita, Senator King is a staunch advocate for America’s servicemembers and veterans. A member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee (SVAC), he works to ensure American veterans receive their earned benefits and that the VA is properly implementing various programs such as the PACT Act, the State Veterans Homes Domiciliary Care Flexibility Act, and the John Scott Hannon Act. Recently, in a letter to VA Secretary Doug Collins, Senator King joined his colleagues in urging for immediate action to secure veterans’ personal information provided by VA or other agencies to Elon Musk and his “Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE), a measure that would protect millions of veterans’ medical records stored in VA’s computer systems. In addition, he helped pass the Veterans COLA Act, which increased benefits for 30,000 Maine veterans and their families.
    Recently, Senator King introduced bipartisan legislation alongside SVAC Chairman Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS) to improve care coordination for veterans who rely on both VA health care and Medicare. In February, Senator King was honored by the Disabled American Veterans as its 2025 Legislator of the Year. Last year, he was recognized by the Wounded Warrior Project as the 2024 Legislator of the Year for his “outstanding legislative effort and achievement to improve the lives of the wounded, ill, and injured veterans.” Senator King also recently joined his colleagues in raising concerns over proposed plans to terminate 83,000 VA employees, and participated in a special investigative SVAC hearing to question witnesses who were terminated due to DOGE cuts. In May, Senators King and Blumenthal wrote again to Secretary Collins demanding an explanation for DOGE cuts to cancel contracts at VA that would impact health care for Maine veterans.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health – Hip hip hooray – government finally updates antiquated funding formula – Genaro

    Source:  General Practice Owners Association (GenPro)

    25 July 2025 – General practice owners are delighted that the Government is modernising the way it funds community doctors to better reflect the needs of patients.

    Cabinet has broadened the range of factors which influence funding from just age and sex, to include deprivation, multi-morbidity, and rurality.

    “The capitation system, which determines how general practices are funded, hasn’t been meaningfully updated since it was established in 2002,” says Dr Angus Chambers, Chair of the General Practice Owners Association (GenPro).

    “Despite numerous reviews and the widely supported recommendations of the 2022 Sapere report, little progress had been made. This lack of action by successive governments perpetuates inequities and undermines the sustainability of primary care.”

    “GenPro has been calling for a funding review for years, so hats off to Health Minister Simeon Brown for finally getting it done and implemented from July next year.

    “In particular we support the addition of funding criteria such as deprivation – a marker of high health needs – and rurality, as rural areas have less access to health services under the current formula. GenPro also supports regular updates of capitation every five years, starting in 2028.

    “GenPro also welcomes Minister Brown’s announcement of increased funding to support general practitioners in training, and putting more structure around feedback from the sector. We invite him to work with GenPro to design a health target so we can see patients as soon as we can.

    “GenPro is also pleased with the announcement of a group to advise the minister on primary care. We believe that decisions made by successive ministers have suffered from poor advice from the Ministry of Health and Health New Zealand leading to the current workforce and funding crisis affecting General Practice. Better advice will be essential to a high performing system in the future.

    “These are all positive signs and, along with recent funding increases announced in the Budget, indicate improvements that will make a real difference for patients.”

    GenPro members are owners and providers of general practices and urgent care centres throughout Aotearoa New Zealand. For more information visit  www.genpro.org.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health – ProCare welcomes announcement from Minister to strengthen primary care funding and access

    Source: ProCare

    Leading healthcare provider, ProCare, has today welcomed the announcement from Health Minister Simeon Brown which outlines a number of initiatives aimed at improving access to primary care, particularly in rural and high-needs communities.

    The proposed update to the capitation funding model—set to take effect from 1 July 2026—is particularly encouraging.

    Bindi Norwell, Chief Executive at ProCare says: “The current model has been long overdue for reform. By factoring in multimorbidity, rurality, and socioeconomic deprivation, the new approach promises to better reflect the realities faced by general practices and the whānau and communities they serve.

    “This is a positive step forward for the health system and for patients across Aotearoa, and we’re pleased to see the Government recognising the critical role primary care plays in delivering timely, equitable, and community-based healthcare,” continues Norwell.

    “Additionally, the Minister stated that some practices would not see a benefit from re-weighting capitation, and whilst this might be so, we will be advocating hard to make sure additional money is invested in the new formula to avoid any practices going backwards through this change. It would be a shame to lose ground after such a successful PSAAP round only a month ago”

    ProCare also supports the introduction of a new national health target to ensure more than 80 percent of people can access a GP within one week.

    “As we’ve said time and time again, primary care is the fence at the top of the cliff, rather than the ambulance at the bottom. Timely access to care is essential for preventing more serious health issues and reducing pressure on hospitals. We look forward to working with the Government to help shape this target in a way that is both ambitious and achievable, and that works for both patients and practices,” says Norwell.

    “We also remain committed to recognising and mitigating unintended consequences of targets on the health system. We are well aware of issues when similar targets have been introduced in hospitals in NZ, and overseas in general practice, and will work on our members’ behalf to mitigate these”.

    The additional investment in general practice training is another welcome move.

    “Funding the full pathway for GPEP trainees is an absolute game-changer. We know how difficult financially it is for GPEPs, and anything that can be done to ease the financial burden and cover costs will be welcomed by those trainees.

    “The funding for GPEPs also s

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Belarus estimates volume of recoverable hydrocarbon reserves at 46 million tons

    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

    MINSK, July 24 /Xinhua/ — Belarus has 46 million tons of recoverable hydrocarbon reserves, of which 56 percent are hard to recover, Deputy Director General for Geology of the Belarusian state company Belorusneft Pyotr Povzhik said on Thursday. The relevant information was published by the online publication sb.by.

    “The volume of hydrocarbon production in our region will only grow every year. In this regard, our task is to increase competencies, knowledge and technological breakthroughs, to acquire and implement the best world practices so that we can continue to improve the quality of development and increase the volume of extraction of hard-to-recover reserves,” noted P. Povzhik.

    In Belarus, in the first half of this year, the increase in the volume of oil produced compared to the 2024 level amounted to more than 4.5 percent. The task for 2025 is to exceed the oil production level of 2 million tons, which Belorusneft reached more than 30 years ago. By 2030, annual oil production is projected to increase to 2.3 million tons.

    The production association “Belorusneft” was established in 1966. The enterprise conducts exploration, prospecting and development of oil fields, drilling wells, producing oil and associated petroleum gas in Belarus, and operates in the oil sector of other countries. –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 Russia: China Makes Important Contribution to Green Development – Chinese Foreign Ministry

    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

    BEIJING, July 24 (Xinhua) — China is willing to work with all parties to comprehensively implement the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), adhere to the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, and promote the building of a fair and reasonable global climate governance system for win-win cooperation, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said Thursday.

    Guo Jiakun made the remarks at a regular briefing, commenting on the advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice on the obligations of states with respect to climate change. On July 23, the International Court affirmed that the UNFCCC system is the primary legal instrument guiding international efforts to address the global problem of climate change, and clearly outlined the rights and obligations of countries under international environmental law. Several states said this marked a critical moment in advancing global climate justice.

    “The Chinese side noted that the advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice stated that the UNFCCC system is the main legal instrument regulating international efforts to address the global problem of climate change, and also confirmed that the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, the principle of sustainable development and the principle of equity serve as guiding principles for the interpretation and application of relevant international law,” the official representative said.

    Guo Jiakun noted that the conclusion emphasizes the leading role of developed countries in combating climate change and the commitment of states to strengthen international cooperation. According to the Chinese diplomat, the conclusion reflects the long-standing position and approach of developing countries, including China, which has positive implications for maintaining and promoting international climate cooperation.

    China actively participated in the preparation of this advisory opinion, Guo Jiakun emphasized. The diplomat pointed out that, as the largest developing country, China is a staunch supporter and important participant in green development, and is actively and confidently working to realize its goals of achieving peak carbon emissions and carbon neutrality.

    “We will achieve the world’s largest reduction in carbon intensity and move from peak emissions to carbon neutrality in the shortest time in world history,” Guo Jiakun said.

    At the same time, China’s high-quality and low-cost clean energy technologies and products greatly reduce the costs of the global green and low-carbon transition, the official noted, adding that China also provides maximum assistance to other developing countries through South-South cooperation channels.

    No matter how the world changes, China will not slow down its actions to combat climate change, will not reduce its support for international cooperation, and will not stop its efforts to build a community with a shared future for mankind, Guo Jiakun said. –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 Banking: Samsung Launches Galaxy Z Fold7, Galaxy Z Flip7 and Galaxy Watch8 Series Globally Starting Today

    Source: Samsung

    Samsung Electronics today announced the global availability of its latest foldable smartphones, Galaxy Z Fold7 and Galaxy Z Flip7, as well as its new Galaxy Watch8 series.
     
     
    Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7: Ultra-Thin and Light With Intuitive Intelligence
    Refined by years of breakthrough engineering and elevated with advanced intelligence, Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7 represent the next leap in smartphone innovation. Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7 are Samsung’s thinnest, lightest and most advanced Z series devices yet. Powered by cutting-edge performance and seamlessly integrated Galaxy AI,1 they are intelligent, adaptive companions that anticipate and respond to user needs in real time. With expansive, flexible displays, pro-grade cameras and context-aware intelligence, Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7 open up new realms of ultra experience with productivity, creativity and connection.
     

     
    Galaxy Z Fold7 brings Galaxy advancements together and broadens their scope, delivering an ultra-level experience in the thinnest, lightest and most advanced Z series yet. It offers immersive, high-octane performance on an expansive screen, empowering users to game, stream, connect and create all at once. Galaxy’s true AI companion experience has also been optimized for the foldable format, enabling fluid interactions across more apps and the larger screen. And with camera and screen sharing with Gemini Live,2 users can talk naturally to Gemini about what they’re viewing. They can simply share a picture of a local delicacy while they’re exploring a new city and ask Gemini whether there is a nearby restaurant where they can try it. Plus, Galaxy Z Fold7’s ultra-grade 200 MP high-resolution camera gives the freedom to shoot at flexible angles, putting professional-quality content creation at users’ fingertips. For example, convenient editing features like Generative Edit3 now automatically detect passersby in the background of photos and proactively recommend what to remove, eliminating the need to make manual selections and edits. Apart from these features, Galaxy Z Fold7 brings familiarity and durability in a head-turning new design that unfolds into something extraordinary.

     
    As for Galaxy Z Flip7, it distills flagship power, intelligence and personality into a compact and iconic form. With its edge-to-edge FlexWindow, users can express themselves, access key features at a glance and stay connected — all without opening the device. Built for dynamic lifestyles, Galaxy Z Flip7 transforms the way users capture and share content, from flawless selfies to cinematic video, all with the agility and creativity only Flip devices can offer. Now Bar4 delivers helpful information right on Galaxy Z Flip7’s FlexWindow to help users stay in control of their day, such as what song is playing, workout progress and even rideshare ETAs at a glance. Gemini Live also allows users to share what they see through their camera and chat with Gemini in real time directly on FlexWindow. So, they can ask for travel tips while road tripping with their dog or outfit suggestions based on the day’s weather. Users can also simply share the camera in Flex Mode and converse with Gemini hands-free. Galaxy Z Flip7’s FlexCam makes it easier than ever to capture the perfect selfie. Real-time filters on the FlexWindow instantly enhance users FlexCam selfies, so that they can be ready to post or share without the need for any extra editing. And with fun new features like Portrait Studio5 for pets, users can instantly transform any snapped or downloaded pet photo into a work of art. They can choose from styles that resemble artistic paintings, 3D cartoons, fisheye lens photos or professional-quality portraits and create frame-worthy masterpieces with one quick tap.

     
    Years of breakthrough engineering have led foldables to become flexible canvases for the new AI experience. As a new class of smartphones designed to fit in with and elevate user lives, Galaxy Z Fold7 and Galaxy Z Flip7 represent this achievement. Familiar yet transformative, they blend power, portability, style and substance, whether users seek a revolutionary, ultra-level experience or an AI powerhouse that fits in their pocket. As form factors evolve to look and think differently, this generation of foldables represents the next leap in smartphone innovation.
     

     
     
    Galaxy Watch8 Series: Ultra-Comfort Meets Real-Time Health Motivation
    Completing the Galaxy ecosystem, the Galaxy Watch8 series — including Galaxy Watch8 and Galaxy Watch8 Classic — brings the same spirit of re-engineering found in the new phones to the wrist. Galaxy Watch8 features advanced sensor technology and creates an intuitive AI-powered experience to help users fulfill a healthier, more connected life, while its ultra-thin cushion design and Dynamic Lug system flex naturally for all-day comfort and more precise sensor contact. Leveraging Samsung’s BioActive Sensor for continuous health tracking, the watches deliver real-time insights and instant rewards or alerts across sleep, stress, nutrition and activity, turning healthy intentions into immediate, motivating feedback.6 Plus, for the first time in a smartwatch, Galaxy Watch8 has introduced the Antioxidant Index,7 enabling users to measure carotenoid levels in just five seconds and make informed lifestyle choices for healthy aging.

     
     
    Hands-On With the Galaxy Z Series and the Watch8 Series at Galaxy Experience Spaces
    After Unpacked, Samsung opened its Galaxy Experience Spaces in major cities including Dubai, London, New York, Paris and Seoul. Designed to offer consumers an early, hands-on experience of the newest Galaxy devices, these spaces featured interactive zones that highlighted the devices’ design, performance and Galaxy AI features. Samsung also partnered with local communities including running, photography and skateboarding groups to host various sessions, teaching visitors how they can get the most out of their new devices.
     
    In addition, Samsung launched a new Experience Store locator feature on Samsung.com, making it easier for users to find nearby stores and try the newest devices in person.
     

     

     

     

     

     

     
     
    Availability
    Galaxy Z Fold7, Galaxy Z Flip7, Galaxy Watch8 and Galaxy Watch8 Classic will be available for purchase at Samsung.com and in stores across 49 markets starting July 25, before being made available in over 110 markets worldwide. Galaxy Z Fold7 is offered in Blue Shadow, Silver Shadow, Jetblack8 and an online-exclusive Mint.9 Galaxy Z Flip7 comes in Jetblack, Blue Shadow, Coralred10 and an online-exclusive Mint.11 Galaxy Z Flip7 FE, which brings the foldable experience to a wider audience, is available in Black or White.

     
    So far, Blue Shadow has emerged as the most popular color globally for both Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7, accounting for nearly 40% of pre-orders for both devices.
     
    Galaxy Watch8 is available in two sizes — 44 mm and 40 mm — and comes in Graphite or Silver. Galaxy Watch8 Classic comes in 46 mm with Black or White options, while the new Galaxy Watch Ultra is offered in four titanium finishes, including the new Titanium Blue.
     
    For greater peace of mind, Samsung Care+12 offers comprehensive coverage for accidental damage, repairs and replacements. Plus, for users who love having the latest technology, Samsung is introducing the New Galaxy Club.
     
    Users can get expanded access to Google AI Pro and 2 TB of cloud storage for 6 months at no cost with Galaxy Z Fold7, Galaxy Z Flip7 and Galaxy Z Flip7 FE.
     
    For more information about the Galaxy Z series and Galaxy Watch8 series, please visit: Samsung Newsroom, SamsungMobilePress.com and Samsung.com.
     
     
    1 Samsung Account login may be required to use certain AI features. Samsung does not make any promises, assurances or guarantees as to the accuracy, completeness or reliability of the output provided by AI features. Availability of Galaxy AI features may vary depending on the region/country, OS/One UI version, device model and phone carrier. Galaxy AI features will be provided for free until the end of 2025 on supported Samsung Galaxy devices. Different terms may apply for AI features provided by third parties. Galaxy AI service may be limited for minors in certain regions with age restrictions over AI usage.
    2 Gemini Live feature requires internet connection and Google Account login. Service availability may vary by country, language, device model. Features may differ depending on subscription and results may vary. Compatible with certain features and certain accounts. Only available to users 18 years or older. Accuracy of results is not guaranteed.
    3 Generative Edit feature for Photo Assist requires a network connection and Samsung Account login. Editing with Generative Edit may result in a resized photo. A visible watermark is overlaid on the image output upon saving in order to indicate that the image is generated by AI. The accuracy and reliability of the generated output is not guaranteed.
    4 Availability of functions supported within the apps may vary by country. Some functional widgets may require a network connection and/or Samsung Account login.
    5 Portrait Studio feature for Photo Assist requires a network connection and Samsung Account login. Editing with Portrait Studio results in a resized photo. A visible watermark is overlaid on the image output upon saving in order to indicate that the image is generated by AI. The accuracy and reliability of the generated output is not guaranteed.
    6 Not intended for use in detection, diagnosis or treatment. Intended for general wellness and fitness purposes only. The result is for your personal reference only. Please consult a medical professional for advice.
    7 Antioxidant index available on Android phones (Android 10 or above) and requires the Samsung Health app (v6.30 or above). Samsung account login required. To measure, place the center of your finger on the sensor at the back of the Watch and hold it for 5 seconds. While Anti-oxidant index can be measured using any finger, the thumb is recommended for the most accurate result. Repeat measurement due to uneven skin texture may lead to inaccurate results. Antioxidant index is for fitness and wellness only. Not intended for use in detection, diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. Please consult a medical professional for advice if you’re concerned about your antioxidant level. This is a Labs feature that you can preview before its official launch. If you don’t want to use this experimental feature, you can turn it off in Samsung Health settings.
    8 Color availability may vary depending on market, country or carrier.
    9 Online exclusive colors only available on Samsung.com.
    10 Color availability may vary depending on market, country or carrier.
    11 Online exclusive colors only available on Samsung.com.
    12 Terms and conditions apply. Samsung Care+ coverage, service type and promotion details may vary by country/region and deductible (service fee) may apply. To be eligible for Samsung Care+ promotion benefit, registration may be required. For detailed Samsung Care+ information, please visit https://www.samsung.com/samsung-care-plus/.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Consultation on reforms to non-compete clauses to boost wages and productivity

    Source: Australian Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Industry

    The Government is taking the next step in reforming non‑compete clauses that are holding back Australian workers from switching to better, higher‑paying jobs.

    Today we are releasing a consultation paper to gather insights and feedback from workers, business and the broader community about how we ban non‑compete clauses to boost productivity and wages across the Australian economy.

    Reforming non‑compete clauses is about encouraging aspiration, unlocking opportunity, lifting wages for working people, and making Australia’s economy more dynamic and competitive.

    Right now, more than three million Australian workers are covered by these clauses, including childcare workers, construction workers, disability support workers and hairdressers.

    Workers should not be handcuffed to their current job when there are better opportunities available for them and that’s what these reforms address.

    Research suggests a ban on non‑competes could lift the wages of affected workers by up to four per cent, or about $2,500 per year for a worker on median wages.

    Productivity Commission modelling suggests the changes could improve productivity and add $5 billion or 0.2 per cent to GDP annually, as well as reduce inflation.

    The Government committed to consult on policy details to support these reforms and to seek views on whether further changes are required to other worker restraints and what these changes could look like.

    The consultation paper also seeks views on complementary reforms to close loopholes in Australia’s competition laws that allow businesses to make anti‑competitive agreements that cap workers’ wages or block staff from being hired by competitors.

    This important step is just one part of the government’s broad and ambitious competition agenda, including progressing a national licensing scheme for electrical trades people.

    Both changes form part of a second tranche of reforms under the Government’s revitalised National Competition Policy.

    They are part of the Albanese Government’s economic plan to help workers earn more and keep more of what they earn, and build a stronger and more productive economy.

    The feedback we receive from this consultation will be used to inform legislation for these important reforms.

    Submissions can be made online on the Treasury consultation hub until 5 September 2025.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Opens Disaster Loan Outreach Center in Clayton

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced today the opening of a Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) in St. Louis County to assist small businesses, private nonprofit (PNP) organizations and residents affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and wildfires occurring March 14–15 and also for those affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding occurring May 16.

    Beginning Friday, July 25, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the Disaster Loan Outreach Center in Clayton to answer questions and assist with the disaster loan application process. No appointment is necessary, walk-ins are welcome. Those who prefer to schedule an in-person appointment in advance can do so at appointment.sba.gov.

    The center’s hours of operation are as follows:

    ST. LOUIS COUNTY

    Disaster Loan Outreach Center

    Mid-County Branch Library

    7821 Maryland Ave.

    Clayton, MO  63105

    Opens at 9:00 a.m., Friday, July 25

    Mondays – Thursdays, 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

    Fridays – Saturdays, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

    The following locations are also open and continue to serve survivors:

    THE INDEPENDENT CITY OF ST. LOUIS

    Business Recovery Center

    St. Louis Community College

    Harrison Education Center

    3140 Cass Ave., Rm. #104

    St. Louis, MO  63106

    Mondays – Fridays, 8:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

    ST. LOUIS COUNTY

    Disaster Loan Outreach Center

    St. Louis County Library

    Florissant Vallet Branch

    Quiet Room

    195 S. New Florissant Rd.

    Florissant, MO  63031

    Mondays – Thursdays, 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

    Fridays – Saturdays, 9:00 – 5:00 p.m.

    “When disasters strike, SBA’s Disaster Loan Outreach Centers perform an important role by assisting small businesses and their communities,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the U.S. Small Business Administration. “At these centers, our SBA specialists help business owners and residents apply for disaster loans and learn about the full range of programs available to support their recovery.”

    Businesses and nonprofits are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans and may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.

    Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence.

    Applicants may be eligible for a loan increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements include insulating pipes, walls and attics, weather stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows to help protect property and occupants from future disasters.

    The SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and private nonprofit organizations impacted by financial losses directly related to these disasters. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    For SBA declaration MO 21094 for the March storms, interest rates are as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.625% for nonprofits, and 2.75% for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years.

    For SBA declaration MO 21129 for the May storms, interest rates are as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.625% for nonprofits, and 2.813% for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years.

    Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA determines eligibility and sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    Although the deadline to return applications for physical property damage due to the March storms has passed, there is a grace period of 60 days the SBA will accept applications beyond the July 22 deadline. The grace period will end on Sept. 20, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Feb. 23, 2026.

    The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage due to the May storms is Aug. 11, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is March 9, 2026.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Available to New Mexico Small Businesses, Private Nonprofits and Residents Affected by Severe Storms, Flooding and Landslides

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – In response to a Presidential disaster declaration issued July 22, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans to New Mexico small businesses, private nonprofit (PNP) organizations and residents affected by severe storms, flooding and landslides beginning June 23.

    The disaster declaration covers the New Mexico county of Lincoln which is eligible for both Physical damage loans and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) from the SBA. Small businesses and PNP organizations in the following adjacent counties are eligible to apply only for SBA EIDLs: Chaves, De Baca, Guadalupe, Otero, Sierra, Socorro and Torrance.

    Businesses and nonprofits are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans and may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.

    Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence.

    Applicants may be eligible for a loan increase of up to 20% of their physical damage, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements include insulating pipes, walls and attics, weather stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows to help protect property and occupants from future disasters.

    SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to eligible small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries and PNPs including faith based impacted by financial losses directly related to this disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. They may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “One distinct advantage of SBA’s disaster loan program is the opportunity to fund upgrades reducing the risk of future storm damage,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “I encourage businesses and homeowners to work with contractors and mitigation professionals to improve their storm readiness while taking advantage of SBA’s mitigation loans.”

    Interest rates can be as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.625% for PNPs and 2.813% for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    As soon as Federal-State Disaster Recovery Centers open throughout the affected area, SBA will provide one-on-one assistance to disaster loan applicants. Additional information and details on the location of disaster recovery centers is available by calling the SBA Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955.

    To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Tax Time 2025 update – 22 July

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    Welcome and governance

    The ATO Co-chair welcomed members and ATO attendees to the Tax Practitioner Stewardship Group (TPSG) Tax Time 2025 meeting.

    ATO Updates

    Frontline Services

    We confirmed 2.8 million individual lodgments have been received. This is a 4% decrease from the same time last year. Lodgment numbers for self-preparers have decreased 4% and agent lodged returns are down 7% compared to this time last year. We reminded members these numbers are expected to level out as tax time progresses.

    We’ve received on average 22,000 calls from agents each week, totalling 66,000 this tax time. This is 11% down from this time last year.

    There were 15,000 returns for accounts with compromised indicators that were tax agent lodged without needing to call the ATO as part of the new process.

    In response to a member query from the TPSG Tax Time 15 July meeting around the frequency of PAYGI correspondence to tax agents (which was a courtesy notification of what was sent to the client), we confirmed that notifications default to the existing preference of their client. If a tax agent would like to change the notifications for their client new to PAYGI, they can update the Communication preferences via Online Services for Agents at the client level.

    IT system updates & maintenance

    All Tax Time systems are currently operating well and reporting green across the board.

    We recently experienced two issues causing a slight degradation to services.

    One issue was reported on the evening of Sunday 20 July between 6 pm and 7 pm AEST impacting all online services. Users may have experienced slowness or possible error pages. This issue was resolved shortly after it was reported.

    The second issue was reported on Monday 21 July. It related to our internal case management system, where the ability to provide advice over the phone may have been limited due to availability of internal systems used by call centre staff. This issue has also since been resolved and all systems are operating as intended.

    ATO Digital services

    We noted that this week there is nothing to report.

    In response to a member query from the TPSG Tax Time 15 July meeting around reports of tax agents receiving correspondence for incorrect clients through Practice Mail in OSfA, we provided the following information:

    Tax agents have been receiving emails which are part of a Tax Time campaign reminding people to use their myID if they log into ATO Online services. This is part of an online access strength fraud prevention initiative where individuals who create a digital identity and use it to log into ATO Online Services ‘lock in’ the strength of their digital identity so that a fraudster can’t then go in and create a lower-level credential with stolen identity information and access their ATO account.

    Under the Digital Identity legislation, digital identity providers like myID are only able to disclose information about the user of a digital identity to government services under specific circumstances. Tax Time messaging doesn’t fall under those circumstances, so we are unable to access the email address the myID owner used when they signed up for their myID. We must rely on the information that it has on the client register for mail campaigns, and in some cases, client’s contact information, including their nominated email address, will be that of their agent.

    This feedback has been passed onto the relevant area responsible for the campaign. They have been asked to include the intended recipient’s surname wherever possible.

    ATO Communications

    A key focus for ATO communications is the ATO app with a media release to be issued on Thursday 17 July. It will remind taxpayers to download the ATO app to protect against scammers and fraudsters. The ATO highlighted that the block functionality of the app is having significant outcomes preventing fraud attempts.

    As most pre-filled data is now available, our upcoming media release and messaging is focused around ‘the go-ahead’ campaign for taxpayers and tax agents to start lodging their tax returns.

    We continue to talk about the importance of getting work-related expenses right.

    We are also continuing to develop content for diverse and First Nations communities, which outlines the support options available for these taxpayers, including Tax Help and Tax Clinic services.

    Member comments

    A member queried whether ATO communications relating to pre-fill includes references to engaging with a registered tax agent. We confirmed that the planned media release does refer to the use of a registered tax agent.

    Member Insights and Experience

    Member comments

    Members are interested in receiving insights into employer obligations Single Touch Payroll (STP) finalisations and Taxable Payments Annual Reporting (TPAR), as well as any notable trends in common errors. We confirmed that they intend to share these insights at future meetings.

    A member raised a query around whether it is possible for the ATO to include the number of days a taxpayer has had hospital cover in prefill to help taxpayers understand their liability to Medicare Levy Surcharge (MLS). We confirmed they will investigate the feasibility for next year’s Tax Time.

    Useful links

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bill to Fund Key Transportation and Housing Programs in Maine Clears Appropriations Committee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Appropriations Committee, announced that she secured significant funding and provisions for Maine in the Fiscal Year 2026 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD) Appropriations Act. The bill, which was officially approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee today, now awaits consideration by the full Senate and House.

    The measure, which was advanced by a vote of 27-1, provides $400 million in defense funding and $99.8 billion in nondefense funding.

    “Strengthening local economies throughout Maine starts with prioritizing and improving our infrastructure and transportation network. This legislation would build on previous investments, providing funding to enhance safety, move people and products more safely and efficiently, and create jobs across the state. It would also maintain existing rental assistance for more than 4.6 million households throughout the United States and invest in programs aimed at tackling homelessness,” said Senator Collins. “As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to advocate for this funding as the appropriations process moves forward.”

    Since joining the Appropriations Committee in 2009, Senator Collins has helped to secure more than $1 billion in competitive transportation grants for the State of Maine.

    Bill Highlights:

    Local Projects: Nearly $135 million for Congressionally Directed Spending projects in Maine. This includes more than $46 million for six MaineDOT projects.

    Department of Transportation:

    • Bridge Repair and Rehabilitation Funding: $350 million for a competitive rural bridge rehabilitation and replacement program, of which Maine is guaranteed to receive at least $32.5 million and is eligible for up to $55 million.
    • BUILD Grants: $250 million for BUILD grants, a program championed by Senator Collins to provide federal assistance for vital transportation projects across the country. Maine has received more than $393 million since the program, previously known as TIGER and RAISE, was established in 2009.
    • Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvement (CRISI) Grants: $100 million for discretionary CRISI grants to support projects that improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of intercity passenger and freight rail.
    • State Maritime Academies (SMAs): $143 million for SMA Operations, which includes $115 for the National Security Multi-Mission Vessels program and associated SMA shore-side infrastructure improvements, benefitting Maine Maritime Academy.
    • Ports and Shipyards: $75 million for the Port Infrastructure Development Program to support improvements to ports and $30 million for the Small Shipyard Grant program to support capital improvements and workforce training in shipbuilding, ship repair, and associated industries. Maine shipyards that have benefitted from the Small Shipyards Grant program include Rockland Marine Corporation, Washburn & Doughty, and Front Street Shipyard.
    • Aviation Improvement Program (AIP): $4 billion, which includes $25 million in discretionary supplemental AIP funding, which has benefited airports in Bangor, Presque Isle, Old Town, and Wiscasset in prior years. This also includes $25 million for a new discretionary rural airport grant program that targets those airports who have typically received a smaller amount of entitlement money based on their annual AIP formula amounts. Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport would be eligible to receive funds from this new rural airport program.
    • Essential Air Service (EAS): $513.6 million to support all existing EAS communities, including Augusta, Hancock County-Bar Harbor, Presque Isle, and Rockland.

    Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD):

    • Community Development Block Grants (CDBG): $3.1 billion for the CDBG program, which helps state and local governments promote economic development and job creation.
    • HOME Investment Partnerships Program: $1.25 billion for the HOME program, which provides critical funding for the development of new affordable housing.
    • Youth Homelessness: $107 million for the Youth Homelessness Demonstration program and $25 million for Family Unification Program (FUP) vouchers for youth exiting foster care and at risk of homelessness.
    • Aging-in-Place Home Modifications for Seniors: $30 million for home modification grants to enable low-income seniors to “age in place” and remain in their own homes. The bill addresses several barriers to greater participation, including streamlining environmental reviews, adjusting the cost per property cap to account for increased labor and materials costs, and encouraging rather than requiring the use of occupational therapists.
    • Housing for the Elderly: $972 million for the Housing for the Elderly (Section 202) program, of which $122 million is for the development of new HUD-assisted senior housing properties.
    • Housing During Substance Abuse Recovery: $30 million for states to provide individuals in recovery with stable, temporary housing. This includes more than $1 million for transitional housing support for addiction recovery programs in Maine.
    • Lead Hazard Reduction Grants: $295.6 million to remediate lead-based paint hazards, helping communities protect children from the harmful effects of lead-based paint poisoning in homes.

    This funding and language advanced through the Committee’s markup of the FY 2026 THUD Appropriations bill—an important step that now allows the bill to be considered by the full Senate.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warnock Leads Bipartisan Push to Address Physician Workforce Shortage

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

    Senator Reverend Warnock introduced the bipartisan Resident Physician Shortage Reduction Act of 2025 with Senator Boozman to increase the number of physicians in communities across the country

    The legislation would increase the number of Medicare funded residency positions by expanding the number of available slots

    143 counties in Georgia are designated as a “Health Professional Shortage Area” by the federal government. 10 Georgia counties had no physicians in 2024

    Over one third of practicing Georgia physicians said they completed their residency in Georgia, showing that increasing residency slots in Georgia will increase the number of doctors that practice in the state

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and John Boozman (R-AR) introduced the bipartisan Resident Physician Shortage Reduction Act of 2025. The legislation would help address the nation’s doctor shortage by increasing the number of Medicare funded residency positions by 14,000 over seven years. The legislation would also make progress toward providing the necessary primary care and specialty physicians necessary to meet the country’s workforce needs.

    “Our state faces a critical shortage of primary care and specialty physicians, preventing many Georgians from accessing health care services in their community,” said Senator Reverend Warnock. “Where you live shouldn’t determine the type of medical care you receive, and I will not stop working to help our hospitals hire and retain the health care workforce that Georgians deserve.”

    “There is an urgent, demonstrated need to strengthen our health care system by combating the alarming shortage of providers, particularly in rural areas,” said Senator Boozman. “Lifting the outdated cap on residency positions supported by Medicare can expand the supply of physicians while helping ensure access to quality care and treatment in more communities nationwide. I am proud to work in a bipartisan way on this important medical workforce solution that also supports better health outcomes.”

    The Resident Physician Shortage Reduction Act of 2025 will address the United States’ impending physician shortage of up to 86,000 physicians by 2036. As a large portion of the physician workforce nears traditional retirement age, there is a critical need to educate and train more physicians to ensure there are enough medical professionals to care for patients across all communities. The legislation prioritizes increasing the number of graduate medical education (GME) positions in states with hospitals in rural and underserved areas, hospitals training physicians in excess of their cap, hospitals affiliated with a historically Black medical school, new or expanding medical schools, and hospitals that serve areas designated as health professional shortage areas.

    As a lifelong advocate for public health, Senator Warnock has advocated tirelessly for greater investment in Geogia’s health care workforce. In 2022, Senator Warnock helped secure federal funding for GA-STRONG, a proposal that provides funds to teaching hospitals across Georgia to help hire, train, and retain more health care workers. In 2023, Senator Warnock secured $500,000 for Emory University’s Nursing Program through annual appropriations process. Most recently, Senator Warnock published a report, “Healthy People, Healthy Economy” that outlines the risk of placing bureaucratic red tape between working people and their healthcare.

    The legislation is supported by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), the National Rural Health Association (NRHA), the American Medical Association (AMA), and the Greater New York Hospital Association (GNYHA). A companion bill was introduced in the House by Representatives Terri Sewell (D-AL-07) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01).

    Read the Resident Physician Shortage Reduction Act of 2025 HERE

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warnock, Ossoff Urge DOJ to Investigate Conditions at Bibb County Jail

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

    U.S. Senators Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and Jon Ossoff (D-GA) urged the Department of Justice to open a federal investigation into conditions at the Bibb County Jail in Macon, Georgia.

    Senator Reverend Warnock and Senator Jon Ossoff: “given the extremity of the reported health, safety, and civil rights concerns that persist in the jail, we urge the DOJ to conduct a full and thorough investigation into conditions at this jail and whether the rights of any individuals who work at or are incarcerated at these facilities may have been violated.”

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and Jon Ossoff (D-GA) urged the Department of Justice to open an investigation into conditions at the Bibb County Jail in Macon, Georgia. The Senators are demanding action following recent reports of health, safety, and civil rights concerns at the facility. In recent years, multiple inmates have been killed or injured in outbreaks of violence at the jail, including a 22-year-old inmate who was stabbed to death at the facility in June.

    “The reports emerging from Bibb County Jail are disturbing. On June 4, 2025, Breele Jahiem Johnson, 22, was stabbed to death. Multiple other inmates were injured in the same incident. Unfortunately, violence at this facility is not rare. In April, an inmate had boiling water thrown on his face, causing severe burns. In May 2024, an inmate died after being tasered by officers. Just last week, another inmate was stabbed and had to be taken to a local hospital. Since 2020, four individuals have died by suicide. The pattern of violence at this facility is troubling.” the Senators wrote to Attorney General Pam Bondi. “We have been encouraged by local officials’ recent efforts to address Bibb County Jail conditions. However, given the extremity of the reported health, safety, and civil rights concerns that persist in the jail, we urge the DOJ to conduct a full and thorough investigation,” the Senators added. 

    The effort builds on Senator Warnock’s previous work to ensure humane conditions in prisons in Georgia and across the nation. In February of 2024, Senator Warnock led his colleagues in successfully urging the Justice Department prioritize the investigation into Fulton County Jail following multiple deaths at the facility in recent years. In 2025, the Justice Department entered a consent decree over the conditions at Fulton County Jail.

    Full text of the letter can be found HERE and below:

    Dear Attorney General Bondi:

    We are writing you today to request that the Department of Justice (DOJ) open an investigation into conditions at the Bibb County Jail in Macon, Georgia.

    Throughout our time in office, we have conducted oversight and taken action to expose and address civil and human rights abuses in prisons and jails, including in federal, state, and local institutions across Georgia. The reports emerging from Bibb County Jail are disturbing. On June 4, 2025, Breele Jahiem Johnson, 22, was stabbed to death.1 Multiple other inmates were injured in the same incident. Unfortunately, violence at this facility is not rare. In April, an inmate had boiling water thrown on his face, causing severe burns. In May 2024, an inmate died after being tasered by officers. Just last week, another inmate was stabbed and had to be taken to a local hospital. Since 2020, four individuals have died by suicide.6 The pattern of violence at this facility is troubling.

    Living conditions at the Bibb County jail are also unacceptable. After touring the jail, the president of the Georgia NAACP stated that the “cracked walls, broken plumbing, poor lighting and unsanitary conditions create an environment no human should be subjected to.” According to others, rodents and waste are regularly seen in the hallways.

    We have been encouraged by local officials’ recent efforts to address Bibb County Jail conditions. However, given the extremity of the reported health, safety, and civil rights concerns that persist in the jail, we urge the DOJ to conduct a full and thorough investigation into conditions at this jail and whether the rights of any individuals who work at or are incarcerated at these facilities may have been violated. Our offices are ready to assist your work in any capacity.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Broader, improved medical coverage for a healthier country

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

    BEIJING, July 24 — During the 2021-2025 period, China’s basic medical insurance has maintained a coverage rate of around 95 percent, with over 1.32 billion people enrolled in 2024, according to the National Healthcare Security Administration (NHSA).

    Zhang Ke, head of the administration, unveiled the data on Thursday at a press conference highlighting achievements during the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025).

    Medical assistance schemes cover approximately 80 million people in China each year, helping to ensure that they can benefit from the insurance program, Zhang said.

    According to Li Tao, deputy head of the administration, during the 2021-2025 period, relevant authorities nationwide have spent about 72.3 billion yuan (about 10.1 billion U.S. dollars) to assist people from disadvantaged groups, providing support for 350 million instances of insurance coverage.

    Thanks to this support, over 99 percent of China’s low-income population and those lifted out of poverty in the country’s rural areas are now covered by medical insurance.

    SUPPORTING PARENTHOOD, THE VULNERABLE

    A total of 253 million people were covered by maternity insurance as of June 2025, with cumulative fund expenditures reaching 438.3 billion yuan, Zhang said.

    Maternity insurance benefits have been accessed 96.14 million times since 2021, he added.

    Notably, assisted reproductive services are now covered by medical insurance across 31 provincial-level regions and in the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, Zhang revealed.

    At the same time, China had expanded its long-term care insurance to cover 190 million people by the end of 2024, according to the NHSA.

    The long-term care insurance fund has raised over 100 billion yuan and paid out more than 85 billion yuan during the 2021-2025 period. Meanwhile, this insurance program has supported over 2 million people unable to care for themselves — reducing the financial burden of care services by more than 50 billion yuan, Li said.

    China now has over 8,800 designated institutions providing long-term care insurance services, with a workforce of 300,000 caregivers — with both these figures marking a more than 50-percent increase since the start of the 14th Five-Year Plan period, he noted.

    BETTER DRUGS, FAIRER PRICES

    During the 2021-2025 period, China’s medical insurance spending on innovative drugs has grown significantly with an increase of 40 percent annually. In 2024, meanwhile, related spending reached 3.9 times the amount recorded in 2020, Zhang said.

    Since 2021, China has approved over 100 domestically developed innovative drugs for market entry, while its 14th Five-Year Plan period has witnessed the approval of more than 160 groundbreaking medical devices. Many of these advanced devices incorporate cutting-edge technologies — including deep learning, magnetic levitation and magnetic resonance monitoring.

    While promoting medical innovation and expanding access to advanced treatments, China has also strengthened efforts to ensure drug prices remain fair and sustainable.

    Since 2018, the country has carried out 10 rounds of centralized medicine procurement, covering 435 medicines, said Shi Zihai, deputy head of the NHSA.

    The NHSA has also actively handled cases of irregular drug pricing and urged pharmaceutical companies to rectify their practices. To date, the administration has issued notices to 566 companies — requiring price adjustments for 726 medicines across various specifications.

    In addition, the NHSA has implemented measures to regulate medicine prices, both online and at physical drugstores, Shi said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: CHINADA issues guidelines to protect rights of underage athletes

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

    The Chinese Anti-Doping Agency (CHINADA) has released its first comprehensive guidelines aimed at safeguarding the rights of underage athletes throughout the anti-doping process, marking a significant step toward a more athlete-centered approach.

    The “Guidelines on Protecting the Rights of Underage Athletes in Anti-Doping Work (Trial),” issued on Thursday, outline a full-chain protection framework covering testing, result management, and privacy protection.

    “This is not just a rule adjustment but a conceptual shift,” said Jiang Tao, associate professor at the China University of Political Science and Law. “The principle of prioritizing athletes’ best interests has now been implemented in detail.”

    A Chinese athlete competes during the women’s 4x100m medley relay final of swimming at the World Aquatics Championships in Fukuoka, Japan, July 30, 2023. (PHOTO / XINHUA)

    The guidelines are based on the World Anti-Doping Code and Chinese regulations, focusing on creating a supportive environment for young athletes during investigations and testing. Measures include “customized conversations” tailored to the athlete’s personality, psychological state, and background, as well as careful attention to the testing environment to prevent psychological stress.

    In line with the International Standard for Education, the guidelines emphasize that a young athlete’s first anti-doping experience should start with education. Testing officers are required to explain rights, obligations, and procedures if the athlete has not received prior anti-doping education, allowing for a “buffer period” during testing.

    To address the heightened stress faced by minors during doping violation cases, the guidelines introduce a “triple protection” system: easing evidentiary requirements, waiving financial penalties for athletes without income, and providing legal aid for hearings. Privacy protection measures also limit mandatory disclosure of personal information in violation cases.

    CHINADA has established a coordinated mechanism involving national and provincial anti-doping bodies as well as frontline personnel. Specialized educators and a team of legal and psychological experts will provide professional support to both athletes and guardians, raising awareness of rights protection.

    “These measures aim to ensure that young athletes can train and compete in a fair, safe, and clean environment,” CHINADA stated, adding that the initiative reflects China’s determination to contribute to the global fight against doping.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Historic ICJ climate ruling ‘just the beginning’, says Vanuatu’s Regenvanu

    By Ezra Toara in Port Vila

    Vanuatu’s Minister of Climate Change Adaptation, Ralph Regenvanu, has welcomed the historic International Court of Justice (ICJ) climate ruling, calling it a “milestone in the fight for climate justice”.

    The ICJ has delivered a landmark advisory opinion on states’ obligations under international law to act on climate change.

    The ruling marks a major shift in the global push for climate justice.

    Vanuatu — one of the nations behind the campaign — has pledged to take the decision back to the UN General Assembly (UNGA) to seek a resolution supporting its full implementation.

    Climate Change Minister Regenvanu said in a statement: “We now have a common foundation based on the rule of law, releasing us from the limitations of individual nations’ political interests that have dominated climate action.

    “This moment will drive stronger action and accountability to protect our planet and peoples.”

    The ICJ confirmed that state responsibilities extend beyond voluntary commitments under the UNFCCC and Paris Agreement.

    It ruled that customary international law also requires states to prevent environmental and transboundary harm, protect human rights, and cooperate to address climate change impacts.

    Duties apply to all states
    These duties apply to all states, whether or not they have ratified specific climate treaties.

    Violations of these obligations carry legal consequences. The ICJ clarified that climate damage can be scientifically traced to specific polluter states whose actions or inaction cause harm.

    As a result, those states could be required to stop harmful activities, regulate private sector emissions, end fossil fuel subsidies, and provide reparations to affected states and individuals.

    “The implementation of this decision will set a new status quo and the structural change required to give our current and future generations hope for a healthy planet and sustainable future,” Minister Regenvanu added.

    He said high-emitting nations, especially those with a history of emissions, must be held accountable.

    Despite continued fossil fuel expansion and weakening global ambition — compounded by the United States’ withdrawal from the Paris Agreement — Regenvanu said the ICJ ruling was a powerful tool for campaigners, lawyers, and governments.

    “Vanuatu is proud and honoured to have spearheaded this initiative,” he said.

    ‘Powerful testament’
    “The number of states and civil society actors that have joined this cause is a powerful testament to the leadership of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and youth activists.”

    The court’s decision follows a resolution adopted by consensus at the UNGA on 29 March 2023. That campaign was initiated by the Pacific Island Students Fighting Climate Change and backed by the Vanuatu government, calling for greater accountability from high-emitting countries.

    The ruling will now be taken to the UNGA in September and is expected to be a central topic at COP30 in Brazil this November.

    Vanuatu has committed to working with other nations to turn this legal outcome into coordinated action through diplomacy, policy, litigation, and international cooperation.

    “This is just the beginning,” Regenvanu said. “Success will depend on what happens next. We look forward to working with global partners to ensure this becomes a true turning point for climate justice.”

    Republished from the Vanuatu Daily Post with permission.

    The International Court of Justice (ICJ) delivers its historic climate ruling in The Hague on Tuesday. Image: VDP

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gillibrand Touts Big Wins For New York State In Senate Appropriations Transportation, Housing, And Urban Development Subcommittee’s Fiscal Year 2026 Appropriations Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand

    The Bill Bolsters Funding for New York State Projects, Including Phase 2 of the Second Avenue Subway, Tenant Protection Vouchers, and Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor

    Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, ranking member of the Transportation and Housing subcommittee of the U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations, touted big wins she worked to include for New York State and that were passed out of committee in the Fiscal Year 2026 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act.

    “New Yorkers from Brooklyn to Hamilton County know firsthand that our state needs critical infrastructure, transportation, and affordable housing investment,” said Senator Gillibrand. “I am proud that our committee worked together on a bipartisan basis and passed a bill that addresses these critical needs. The funding will help New Yorkers travel around our state more easily, make homes more affordable, and improve air traffic congestion at local airports. I’m proud of the work this subcommittee has done to produce a strong bill and urge my colleagues to pass it through the full Senate as soon as possible.”

    The bill includes funding for important priorities in New York State:

    1. $700 million to fund the Hudson River Tunnel;
    2. $307.3 million to fund Phase 2 of the Second Avenue Subway;
    3. $850 million to fully fund Amtrak’s budget request for the Northeast Corridor;
    4. $22 billion to fully fund the Federal Aviation Administration, which will help address congestion issues at John F. Kennedy, LaGuardia, and Newark Airports;
    5. $514 million for the Essential Air Service program to continue to support the Massena, Ogdensburg, Plattsburgh, Saranac Lake/Lake Placid, and Watertown airports;
    6. $62 million for the Reconnecting Communities program Senator Gillibrand created in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to fund projects to remove and mitigate infrastructure that divides communities;
    7. $20 million in new funding to support transit safety and security initiatives, including for the MTA;
    8. $161.5 million infunding for the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, including for campus and building renovations;
    9. Full funding to maintain rental assistance, including $430 million for tenant protection vouchers to assist the most at-risk residents in NYCHA;
    10. Invests in expanding and improving the homeless response system to help senior citizens, veterans, youth, and others facing homelessness;
    11. $1.25 billion to sustain the HOME Investment Partnerships Program, the primary federal program builds more affordable housing;
    12. And $73 million in congressionally directed spending for affordable housing, community development, and transportation projects across New York.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Gaza: MSF finds 1 in 4 young children and pregnant women malnourished as Israel’s policy of starvation continues

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF)

    Gaza Strip: Israeli authorities’ deliberate use of starvation as a weapon in Gaza has reached unprecedented levels, with patients and healthcare workers themselves now fighting to survive, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) warns.

    MSF staff are receiving an increasing number of malnourished patients at our clinics, while they themselves struggle to find sufficient food. Across screenings of children aged six months to five years old and pregnant and breastfeeding women, at MSF facilities last week, 25 per cent were malnourished. At the MSF clinic in Gaza City, the number of people enrolled for malnutrition has quadrupled since 18 May, while rates of severe malnutrition in children under five have tripled in the last two weeks alone.

    This is not just hunger – it’s deliberate starvation, manufactured by the Israeli authorities. The weaponisation of food to exert pressure on a civilian population must not be normalised. Israeli authorities must allow food and aid supplies into Gaza at scale.

    “We see the dire consequences of these shortages in Gaza on a daily basis in our clinic,” says Caroline Willemen, project coordinator at the MSF clinic in Gaza City. “We are now enrolling 25 new patients every single day for malnutrition. We see the exhaustion and the hunger in our own colleagues.”

     Meanwhile, hundreds of people seeking desperately needed aid continue to be attacked by Israeli forces and private security contractors at food distribution sites run by the Israeli proxy, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF).

    “What we are seeing is unconscionable; an entire population being deliberately cut off from food and water, all while the Israeli forces commit daily massacres as people scramble for scraps of food at distribution sites. Any shred of humanity in Gaza has been wiped out in the ongoing genocide,” says Amande Bazerolle, MSF head of emergency response in Gaza.

    In the last two months, more than 1,000 people have been killed and over 7,200 injured, according to the Ministry of Health, as they attempted to collect aid, including a large proportion at the distribution sites of the GHF, which is backed and funded by the US government. Despite these sites being set up to avoid aid diversion, they have done nothing to reduce the existence of looting.

    “These food distributions are not humanitarian aid, they are war crimes committed in broad
    daylight and presented to the world with compassionate language. Those who go to the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation’s food distributions know that they have the same chance of receiving a sack of flour as they do of leaving with a bullet in their head,” says Dr. Mohammed Abu Mughaisib, MSF deputy medical coordinator in Gaza.

    In addition to people wounded at GHF sites, our teams have treated dozens of patients from recurrent massacres by Israeli forces as people wait for flour from trucks that pass by.

    “In the emergency room of Sheikh Radwan clinic a few days ago, dozens of patients came in, both dead and wounded,” says Willeman. “These were people who had approached trucks for flour and were ruthlessly shot by Israeli forces.

    That day MSF and Ministry of Health medical teams at the clinic, in north Gaza, treated 122 people with gunshot wounds who had been fired on while waiting for flour and additional 46 people were dead on arrival.

    To make matters worse, in the last week, community kitchens who provide food to patients and medical staff in hospitals have struggled to do so, some shutting down for days at a time. Even if they can deliver, it is only one meal a day of plain rice for patients who need nutrient-rich food to heal properly, and often nothing for staff. This is no longer about what people can afford. There is barely any food available in most of the strip.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Additional funding for independent hospices

    Source: Scottish Government

    Support for pay parity with NHS staff.

    The Scottish Government is to distribute £5 million of funding in 2025-26 to support independent hospices with pay parity for clinical staff with their NHS counterparts.

    Hospices have now had their funding allocations confirmed and the investment, set out in the 2025-26 Budget, will ensure that frontline staff providing essential palliative and end-of-life care in independent hospices are fairly paid in line with NHS pay scales.

    The funding aims to help hospices recruit and retain skilled healthcare professionals during a time of rising workforce pressures and increasing demand for palliative care services.

    Health Secretary Neil Gray, said:

    “Independent hospices provide vital care and support to people and families across Scotland at the most difficult times in their lives. I am pleased we are able to support these organisations in supporting pay parity for their clinical staff.

    “This funding recognises the skilled, compassionate care that hospice staff deliver every day, and helps ensure their pay reflects the immense value of their work.”

    Chair of the Scottish Hospice Leadership Group Jacki Smart, said:

    “This is a welcome first step in recognising the needs of the hospice sector, which plays a key role in delivering specialist palliative care for Scotland. It is right for patients and staff that hospices can pay skilled professionals fairly and in line with NHS colleagues, and we need to keep pace on this.”

    Background

    Independent hospices across Scotland are independent charitable organisations providing care tailored to local needs. Integration Joint Boards (IJBs) are responsible for the planning and commissioning of independent hospices to meet the needs of their local population. Hospices work closely with a wide variety of health and social care services, including NHS Boards, to deliver high quality care and support.

    The Scottish Government is committed to developing a new national framework to support more effective planning and commissioning between hospices and IJBs. This work will continue alongside discussions about long-term pay parity and funding arrangements.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –