NewzIntel.com

Category: Vehicles

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Feb retail sales down 13%

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The value of total retail sales for February, provisionally estimated at $29.4 billion, decreased 13% compared with the same month a year earlier, the Census & Statistics Department announced today.

    After netting out the effect of price changes over the same period, the provisional estimate represents a 15% year-on-year decrease.

    Of the total retail sales value in February, online sales accounted for 7.8%. Provisionally estimated at $2.3 billion, the value of this segment dropped 7.3% from the same month a year earlier.

    Noting that retail sales tend to show greater volatility in the first two months of a year due to the timing of the Lunar New Year, the department said consumer spending in the local market normally attains a seasonal high before the festival.

    It added that as the Lunar New Year fell on January 29 this year but on February 10 last year, it is more appropriate to analyse the retail sales figures for January and February taken together in making a year-on-year comparison.

    For the first two months of 2025 taken together, it was provisionally estimated that the value of total retail sales decreased 7.8% year-on-year, while the value of online retail sales dropped 2.4% compared with the same period in 2024.

    The value of sales of other consumer goods not elsewhere classified dropped by 2% in the first two months of 2025 compared with a year earlier.

    This was followed by sales of jewellery, watches and clocks, and valuable gifts (down 15.8%); commodities in supermarkets ( down 4.4%); wearing apparel (down 5.4%); electrical goods and other consumer durable goods not elsewhere classified (down 5.3%); commodities in department stores (down 9.9%); fuels (down 8.5%); motor vehicles and parts (down 49.9%); footwear, allied products and other clothing accessories (down 12.3%); books, newspapers, stationery and gifts (down 10.9%); furniture and fixtures (down 25.6%); Chinese drugs and herbs (down 9.1%); and optical shops (down 7.6%).

    On the other hand, the value of sales of food, alcoholic drinks and tobacco increased by 0.7% in the first two months of 2025 over the same period a year earlier. This was followed by sales of medicines and cosmetics (up 0.6%).

    The Government commented that the year-on-year decline in the value of total retail sales in February widened, partly due to the earlier arrival of Lunar New Year in late January this year as compared to mid-February last year. 

    Taking the first two months of 2025 together to remove this effect, the value of total retail sales saw a narrower decline on a year-on-year basis than December 2024.

    Looking ahead, the Government said the various measures by the central government to boost the Mainland economy and benefit Hong Kong, together with the Special Administrative Region Government’s efforts to promote tourism and mega events and the sustained increases in employment earnings in local labour market, would benefit the retail sector.

    This is despite the continued challenge from the change in consumption patterns of visitors and residents, it added.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM remarks at the Organised Immigration Summit in central London: 31 March 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    PM remarks at the Organised Immigration Summit in central London: 31 March 2025

    The Prime Minister’s remarks at the Organised Immigration Summit in central London today (Monday 31 March).

    It’s great to welcome you all to Lancaster House. It was right here, earlier this month that the UK convened leaders from across Europe together with President Zelenskyy to support a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.

    Because we know that Ukraine’s security is our security. And we can only deliver it by taking bold action at home, with the biggest increase in defence spending since the Cold War.

    And also, by working together with our international partners. 

    Now – the same is clearly true for the security of our borders.

    Illegal migration is a massive driver of global insecurity. It undermines our ability to control who comes here. And that makes people angry. 

    It makes me angry, frankly because it is unfair on ordinary working people who pay the price, from the cost of hotels to our public services struggling under the strain.

    And it’s unfair on the illegal migrants themselves. Because these are vulnerable people being ruthlessly exploited by vile gangs.

    So look, we must each take decisive action in our own countries to deal with this. Nobody can doubt that the people we serve want this issue sorted.

    But the truth is – we can only smash these gangs, once and for all if we work together.

    Because this evil trade, it exploits the cracks between our institutions. Pits nations against one another. Profits from our inability at the political level to come together.

    And that’s why from the moment I took office we said the UK would convene this Summit.

    And I’m delighted today to be joined by all of you. Representatives from more than 40 countries across the world, building a truly international effort to defeat organised immigration crime.

    And let me tell you why. Let me take you back to a visit I made as a relatively new Member of Parliament in 2016 to the camp on the outskirts of Calais.

    I can still picture it now. The muddy ground, sodden with rain and human waste. 

    Children as young as five and seven, the same age as my children were then huddling together in freezing temperatures with almost nothing to keep them warm.

    Now, of course, that infamous camp has long since gone. But the evil of the people smuggling businesses that put people there, that remains.

    The gangs remain. That exploitation of desperation, misery and false hope – that all remains.

    There’s nothing progressive or compassionate about turning a blind eye to this. Nothing progressive or compassionate about continuing that false hope which attracts people to make those journeys.

    No – we have got to get to grips with it once and for all. That’s why when I spoke at the INTERPOL meeting in Glasgow last year I said we need to treat people-smuggling as a global security threat similar if you like to terrorism.

    We’ve got to bring to bear all the powers we have at our disposal in much the same way we do against terrorism.

    Before I was a politician, I was the Director of Public Prosecutions in England and Wales. We worked across borders throughout Europe and beyond to foil numerous plots.

    Saving thousands of lives in the process. We prevented planes from being blown up over the Atlantic. And we brought the perpetrators to justice.

    So I believe we should treat organised immigration crime in the exactly same way. I simply don’t believe organised immigration crime cannot be tackled.

    So – we’ve got to combine resources. Share intelligence and tactics. Tackle the problem upstream at every step of the people smuggling journey, from North Africa and the Middle East to the high streets of our biggest cities. 

    And look, to that end, we’ve already got to work. Begun to make progress since I came into office. The UK has re-set its entire approach to international collaboration.

    I’ve put smashing the gangs on the agenda of international summits. Showing that the UK now means business. Working together with our allies. We’ve struck new agreements and plans with so many of the countries represented in the room here today.

     Take our work with France as a good example. Now previously – their maritime doctrine prevented French law enforcement from responding to small boats in shallow waters.

    But now we’re working with them to change that, to make sure we get new border patrols and specialist units on the French coast using state-of-the-art surveillance technology.

    With Germany another example, if you can believe it, it wasn’t technically illegal to facilitate people-smuggling to a country outside the EU, like the United Kingdom. But now it will be.

    And with our new bilateral agreement Germany will be able to prosecute the criminal networks facilitating this vile trade.

    Just a few examples of the international collaboration that is so important to taking this challenge on. And it’s beginning to bear fruit.

    At the end of last year, a major operation by French, German and British law enforcement smashed an Iraqi smuggling network with multiple arrests and the seizure seizing hundreds of boats and engines.

    In Amsterdam, a man was arrested on suspicion of supplying hundreds of small boat parts to people smugglers.

    That was a joint operation with our National Crime Agency together with Dutch and Belgian police.

    We’re also working upstream to address factors that drive people towards small boats in the first place.

    Working with the authorities in Albania and Vietnam on campaigns to deter those who are thinking about making that perilous journey.

    Because there is also nothing progressive about allowing working age people to come here illegally instead of supporting them to build their own economies, secure a better future for their own countries, and build a safer, more prosperous world.

    But look – as we work together more closely I think than ever before we’ve also got to take the tough measures at home in our own countries.

    That doesn’t mean gimmicks. You may be familiar with the gimmicks of the last 14 years here in Britain. It means understanding the problem.

    And coming up with pragmatic solutions that work. Actually, fixing what’s wrong.

    Few things show this more clearly, than our approach to border security. We inherited this total fragmentation between our policing, our Border Force and our intelligence agencies.

    A fragmentation that made it crystal clear, when I looked at it, that there were gaps in our defence. An open invitation at our borders for the people smugglers to crack on.

    To be honest it should have been fixed years ago. But we’re doing it now with our new Border Security Command. Led by Martin Hewitt – who many of you I think will know.

    We’re recruiting hundreds of specialist investigators from across our police, our Border Force and intelligence agencies. Creating an elite Border Force. Working with our international partners. Ending the fragmentation. 

    £150 million invested over the next two years and new powers and criminal offences to get the job done. So the police will be able to seize the phones and devices of migrants arriving on our shores and gather intelligence about the smugglers. 

    The police will be able to act when they have reason to believe preparations are being made for criminal activity instead of waiting for a crime to happen before they can act.

    And it will be an offence to endanger lives at sea to prevent more tragic deaths in the Channel.

    We are also redeploying resources away from the Tory’s wasteful Rwanda scheme. A scheme that spent over 700 million pounds of taxpayer money to remove just four volunteers.

    You know, even if that scheme had gone well, they were claiming they might remove – 300 people a year.

    Since coming to office – I can announce today we have returned more than 24,000 people who have no right to be here. 

    That would have taken the Rwanda scheme 80 years to achieve. This is what I mean about not giving in to gimmicks. Just focusing our efforts and resources on the nuts and bolts of removing people. Getting the asylum system working properly. That’s how we’ve delivered the highest returns rate for eight years and the four biggest return flights ever.

    We’re also ramping up the deportation of Foreign National Offenders with a new team of specialist frontline staff going into our prisons, speeding up the removal of prisoners who have no right to be in this country.

    Now, all of this is providing a real disincentive to people thinking about coming to Britain illegally. But if we’re talking about incentives – we need to talk about the people smugglers as well.

    Because they don’t care about borders. They don’t care about the people they traffic. And they don’t care about our country and our people.

    They only care about one thing: money. They make huge profits out of ruining people’s lives. I mean – a few months ago, I went to see some of the boats that had been seized at the NCA headquarters. 

    Now we call them small boats, but honestly they’re not worthy of the name boat. I don’t know what you would call them. To me they look like death traps.

    Flimsy. Rubber. No firm structure. You would not let your children climb aboard, even for a second in shallow waters.

    Seriously – if they were a car, they’d be off the road in minutes. The police would intervene. 

    And don’t tell me they’ve got any purpose other than people smuggling. So I see no reason why we can’t go after them. And so we are.

    We have seized hundreds of boats and engines, driving up the costs for the smugglers.

    We have taken down 18,000 social media accounts. That’s 10,000 more than last year, disrupting the way smugglers promote their services.

    And more than that, we have announced a new sanctions regime. Treating people smugglers like terrorists. Freezing their assets, banning their travel.

    Putting them behind bars – where they belong. But just as important – putting their entire model, out of business, securing our borders on behalf of working people.

    Because as I said at the start – this is about fairness. And there is little that strikes working people as more unfair than watching illegal migration drive down their wages, their terms and their conditions through illegal work in their community. 

    We have to be honest here. For too long, the UK has been a soft touch on this. While the last government were busy with their Rwanda gimmick, they left the door wide open for illegal working.

    Especially in short-term or zero-hours roles like in construction, beauty salons and courier services.

    And while of course most companies do the responsible thing and carry out right to work checks.

    Too many dodgy firms have been exploiting a loophole to skip this process: hiring illegal workers, undercutting honest businesses, driving down the wages of ordinary working people. 

    And all of this, of course fuelling that poisonous narrative of the gangs who promise the dream of a better life to vulnerable people yet deliver a nightmare of squalid conditions and appalling exploitation.

    Well, today we are changing that because this government is introducing a tough new law to force all companies to carry out these checks on right to work.

    They take just minutes to complete – so they are not burdensome for business. And they can be done free of charge – so there will be no excuses.

    And no ability to claim they didn’t know they had illegal workers. And failure to comply will result in fines of up to £60,000. Prison terms of up to 5 years and the potential closure of their business.

    Now, none of these strategies on their own are a silver bullet. I know that.

    But each of them is another tool. An arsenal we are building up to smash the gangs once and for all.

    We must pull every lever available. And that is what this Labour government is doing. 

    No short cuts, no gimmicks. Just the hard graft of sleeves-rolled-up, practical government. 

    Securing our borders. Getting a grip on illegal migration. Delivering our Plan for Change.

    We want to work with you and with everyone who is as determined as we are to end the misery and evil of people-smuggling.

    Because together we will save lives.

    We will secure our borders.

    We will smash the gangs that undermine our security…

    And deliver fairness for the working people we serve.

    Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: African Rare Earth Projects Advance Amid Rising Global Demand

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    CAPE TOWN, South Africa, March 31, 2025/APO Group/ —

    The global demand for rare earth elements (apo-opa.co/3FI1pbZ) is projected to increase four-fold by 2030, driven by the energy transition and increasing investments in industrialization. African nations rich in rare earth minerals are accelerating exploration and production efforts to capitalize on this growth. With up to eight rare earth projects set for commissioning across the continent by 2029 – boosting Africa’s share of the global supply chain to 10% – the upcoming African Mining Week will spotlight opportunities across the rare earth value chain.

    Africa’s rare earth sector remains largely untapped, thereby attracting the interest of global project developers eager to unlock its full potential. South African asset manager Novare, for example, signed a R1.8 billion agreement (apo-opa.co/3E9EG8f) in February 2025 with American firm ReElement Technologies to develop a rare earth refining and battery manufacturing facility. ReElement will contribute its refining technology while Novare will provide funding for the value addition initiative, with construction expected to begin in the second half of 2025.

    In Namibia, the Japan Organization for Metals and Energy Security and Namibia Critical Metals (apo-opa.co/427nfNI) completed a production pilot for the Lofdal Project, one of only two xenotime-type heavy rare earth deposits currently under development worldwide. Meanwhile, in Angola, Pensana (apo-opa.co/43A3nW0) secured an $80 million loan from Absa Bank Limited in January 2025 to expedite the rollout of the Longonjo Project, which is expected to supply 5% of the world’s magnet metal rare earths demand – essential for the development of wind turbines and electric vehicles.

    Major investors are also making bold moves in Africa’s rare earth sector. Billionaires Jeff Bezos and Bill Gates (apo-opa.co/3FJsOdC) have injected $537 million into exploration and mine development through mining startup KoBold Metals, further accelerating Africa’s rare earth ambitions. The funding will be directed toward rare earth mining ventures. Additionally, recognizing the strategic value of rare earths, multinational financial institution the African Development Bank proposed the development of the African Units of Account (AUA) (apo-opa.co/3FOTDxe) – a new currency backed by Africa’s critical mineral reserves, including rare earth elements. The initiative would help stabilize regional currency markets and attract more international investment in green energy projects, amidst the growing demand of critical minerals globally and Africa’s vast reserves.

    The year 2025 continues to mark significant milestones in the growth of Africa’s rare earth sector, with the advancement of key projects (apo-opa.co/43uodGd) such as Phalaborwa and Steenkampskraal (South Africa), Makuutu (Angola), Ngualla (Tanzania) and Songwe (Malawi). Amid these developments, African Mining Week serves as a strategic platform for African regulators, industry stakeholders and global investors to engage in deal signings and forge partnerships, further solidifying Africa’s role in the global rare earth supply chain.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI: Westport Announces Agreement to Divest the Light-Duty Segment for $73.1 Million

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, March 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Westport Fuel Systems Inc. (“Westport” or the “Company”) (TSX:WPRT / Nasdaq:WPRT), has entered into a binding agreement (the “Agreement”) to sell its interest in Westport Fuel Systems Italia S.r.l., which includes the Light-Duty segment, including the light-duty OEM, delayed OEM, and independent aftermarket businesses, to a wholly-owned investment vehicle of Heliaca Investments Coöperatief U.A. (“Heliaca Investments”), a Netherlands based investment firm supported by Ramphastos Investments Management B.V. a prominent Dutch venture capital and private equity firm (the “Transaction”). The Transaction provides for a base purchase price of $73.1 million (€67.7 million), subject to certain adjustments, and potential earnouts of up to an estimated $6.5 million (€6.0 million) if certain conditions are achieved, in accordance with the terms of the Agreement.

    Moving forward, Westport intends to concentrate fully on providing affordable solutions for hard-to-decarbonize mobility and industrial applications, centered around the unique opportunities created by the HPDI technology and our Cespira joint venture. The Transaction also strengthens Westport’s balance sheet and enables Westport to consider strategic acquisition opportunities consistent with the above strategic focus and extend its runway to fund near-term growth.

    “This Transaction marks a significant milestone in our evolution as an alternative fuel systems enterprise. By returning to our roots and focusing on our core strengths, providing solutions in hard-to-decarbonize mobility and industrial applications, we are positioning Westport for sustainable growth and enhanced operational efficiency. The Light-Duty segment has been an important part of our history, and we are confident that Heliaca Investments is the right partner to continue its development. This Transaction allows us to streamline our operations, sharpen our focus on innovation, and create long-term value for our stakeholders. We are excited about the opportunities ahead and look forward to building on our momentum,” said Dan Sceli, Chief Executive Officer of Westport Fuel Systems.

    Under the terms of the Agreement, Heliaca Investments through its subsidiary will acquire Westport’s Light-Duty segment, including its related assets and customer contracts. The Transaction is subject to shareholder approval and other customary closing conditions and is expected to close in late Q2 of 2025.

    The proceeds from the proposed Transaction are expected to enable Westport to significantly improve its financial stability, while also supporting key growth initiatives focused on providing solutions for hard-to-decarbonize mobility and industrial applications. Following closing, Westport intends to align its cost structure to be more reflective of a smaller, more efficient organization, while also seeking further opportunities for efficiency gains.

    Strategic Transformation

    The proposed divestiture is a pivotal step in refocusing Westport on its competitive strengths. Westport remains committed to providing affordable, alternative fuel solutions for the heavy-duty truck, off-road, and industrial markets. Westport believes that hydrogen will play a role in decarbonizing mobility applications long-term. However, Westport’s products are timeline-agnostic, allowing the Company to leverage its High-Pressure Controls and Systems segment and its stake in Cespira, which both have solutions available now, to address decarbonization with net zero and low carbon fuels while also providing affordable solutions utilizing zero carbon hydrogen in the future. Westport’s remaining assets, when combined, create the potential for fuel agnostic high-pressure storage solutions, complementing HPDI and Cespira’s growth aspirations.

    As the hydrogen ecosystem evolves, Westport views the natural gas market, including LNG, CNG and RNG as our foundation, with strong economics in many geographies and diverse growth opportunities. The Company’s GFI products are already industry leading on a global scale and backed by intellectual property rights that are expected to strengthen our already significant competitive advantage in high-pressure fuel solutions.

    Moreover, the Company will consider strategic merger and acquisition opportunities that align with the reimagined strategic focus.

    Creating Focus

    The resurgence of natural gas and renewable natural gas globally provides a market opportunity for Westport. In particular, while HPDI technology is well positioned and established in Europe, the North American market presents many growth opportunities. North America is again embracing natural gas and renewable natural gas as an important part of the solution to reduce the cost and the carbon footprint of heavy-duty long-haul trucking. Natural gas infrastructure is abundant and RNG production is growing.

    As we wait for hydrogen adoption, both Cespira and our High-Pressure Controls & Systems segment have products and technologies enabling the use of lower-carbon fuels today. These same products are equally viable in the future as hydrogen adoption ramps up. In the near-term, our High-Pressure Controls and Systems business has expertise in high-pressure components, providing the capability to rapidly develop CNG high pressure solutions for heavy-duty, off-road and industrial applications, providing effective solutions for decarbonization by utilizing alternative fuels today while advancing zero-emissions hydrogen solutions for the future. Additionally, the Company holds extensive intellectual property assets related to high-pressure fuels for HPDI engines. These initiatives are being designed to strengthen Westport’s competitive position and reinforce its role in advancing low-carbon fuel solutions for hard-to-decarbonize mobility applications.

    Advisors

    J.P. Morgan is acting as financial advisor to Westport and is providing a fairness opinion to the board of directors in connection with the Transaction. Bennett Jones LLP and Delfino Willkie are acting as legal advisors to Westport, and E&Y is acting as tax advisor to the Company.

    Gianni & Origoni, NautaDutilh, Wardyński & Partners and PwC are advising Heliaca Investments in connection with the Transaction.

    About Westport Fuel Systems

    At Westport Fuel Systems, we are driving innovation to power a cleaner tomorrow. We are a leading supplier of advanced fuel delivery components and systems for clean, low-carbon fuels such as natural gas, renewable natural gas, propane, and hydrogen to the global transportation industry. Our technology delivers the performance and fuel efficiency required by transportation applications and the environmental benefits that address climate change and urban air quality challenges. Headquartered in Vancouver, Canada, with operations in Europe, Asia, North America, and South America, we serve our customers in approximately 70 countries with leading global transportation brands. At Westport Fuel Systems, we think ahead. For more information, visit www.wfsinc.com.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements, including statements regarding the closing of, and timing for closing of, the Transaction, shareholder approval of the Transaction, the anticipated benefits of the Transaction, including potential earn-out payments, the Transaction alleviating liquidity concerns, the ability to strengthen our balance sheet and align our cost structure, the ability to capitalize on growth initiatives, including fund strategic acquisitions, the ability to transition to a smaller, more efficient organization and our expectations regarding the future success of our business, the adoption of hydrogen and the future growth and development of HPDI. Other forward-looking statements included in the release include those relating to Westport’s future strategic plans, business opportunities and use of the Transaction proceeds. These statements are neither promises nor guarantees but involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on both the views of management and assumptions that may cause our actual results, levels of activity, performance, or achievements to be materially different from any future results, levels of activities, performance, or achievements expressed in or implied by these forward-looking statements. These risks, uncertainties, and assumptions include those related to completion and satisfaction of all conditions to closing of the Transaction set out in the Agreement, governmental policies, regulation and approval, the achievement of the performance criteria required for the earn out described above, purchase price adjustments contained in the Agreement, the demand for high-pressure storage solutions and other products, as well as other risk factors and assumptions that may affect our actual results, performance, or achievements, as discussed in our most recent Annual Information Form and other filings with securities regulators. Readers should not place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date they were made. We disclaim any obligation to publicly update or revise such statements to reflect any change in our expectations or in events, conditions, or circumstances on which any such statements may be based, or that may affect the likelihood that actual results will differ from those set forth in these forward-looking statements except as required by National Instrument 51-102. The contents of any website referenced in this press release are not incorporated by reference herein.

    Investor Inquiries:

    Investor Relations
    T: +1 604-718-2046
    E: invest@wfsinc.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Maris-Tech Announces Full Year 2024 Financial Results and Reports Record 51% Revenue Growth for 2024 with Improved Profitability

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Revenues Increased by 51%, Gross Profit Increased by 82% and Net Loss Reduced by 54% for the Year Ended December 31, 2024

    Rehovot, Israel, March 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Maris-Tech Ltd. (Nasdaq: MTEK, MTEKW) (“Maris-Tech” or the “Company”), a global leader in video and artificial intelligence (“AI”)- based edge computing technology, today announced its financial results for the full year ended December 31, 2024. The Company reported record revenues of approximately $6.1 million, an increase of 51% compared to approximately $4 million for the year ended December 31, 2023. Gross profit for the year ended December 31, 2024, grew by 82%, reaching approximately $3.5 million compared to approximately $1.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2023.

    Mr. Israel Bar, Chief Executive Officer of Maris-Tech, said, “In 2024, we focused on new developments, strategic partnerships and expanding our presence in key markets. We strengthened our position in the defense sector, particularly in the miniature drone and unmanned aerial vehicles industry, and in armored vehicles and tanks. Among our key achievements, we launched the Uranus Drones – a miniature codec tailored for the drone industry – and introduced the Diamond System, which is already deployed in the battlefield, providing comprehensive protection for thousands of vehicles. We also increased our investment in marketing and business development in the United States, which has contributed to our accelerated growth.”

    Financial Highlights

    ●    Revenues: Revenues for the year ended December 31, 2024, were approximately $6.1 million, an increase of 51% compared to approximately $4 million for the year ended December 31, 2023.

    ●    Gross Profit: Gross profit for the year ended December 31, 2024, was approximately $3.5 million, an increase of 82% compared to approximately $1.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2023.

    ●    Net Loss: Net loss for the year ended December 31, 2024, was approximately $1.2 million, a decrease of 54% compared to approximately $2.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2023.

    ●    Net Loss per Ordinary Share: Net loss per ordinary share for the year ended December 31, 2024, was approximately $0.16, a decrease of 53% compared to approximately $0.34 for the year ended December 31, 2023.

    ●    Cash, Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Bank Deposits: Cash and cash equivalents and short-term bank deposits as of December 31, 2024, were approximately $2.3 million, compared to approximately $5.2 million as of December 31, 2023.

    ●    Trade Receivables Balance: Increased to approximately $3.5 million as of December 31, 2024, compared to approximately $3.0 million as of December 31, 2023.

    We expect that our existing cash and cash equivalents as of December 31, 2024, along with anticipated revenue from existing customers pursuant to existing orders and the availability of a $4 million line of credit, will be sufficient to fund our operations and meet our obligations for the next twelve months.

    Year Ended 2024 Highlights

    We strengthened our position in the defense and homeland security (“HLS”) markets, and accelerated revenue growth:

    ●    In January 2024, we secured a new purchase order for approximately $590,000 for an AI-based HLS and Defense Surveillance Application based on the Jupiter AI platform;

    ●    In February 2024, we received a purchase order for approximately $190,000 for a miniature low-power solution to enhance gun sight capabilities in tactical applications;

    ●    In February 2024, we received a repeat purchase order for approximately $600,000 with an option to increase the purchase order to approximately $730,000 to provide armored and autonomous vehicles with enhanced situational awareness;

    ●    In April 2024, we secured a new purchase order for $415,800 for a defense solution based on our Jupiter Nano platform;

    ●    In April 2024, we received a new purchase order for approximately $110,000 for a novel miniature intelligence-gathering product based on the Maris platform technology;

    ●    In June 2024, we received a new purchase order for $225,000 from Aero Sol military drone manufacturer for our Uranus-Drones solution;

    ●    In June 2024, we secured a repeat purchase order for approximately $957,000 for our situational awareness solution for Armored Vehicles;

    ●    In August 2024, we secured a $700,000 purchase order for innovative AI-Based Video Distribution Solution; and

    ●    In December 2024, we secured a $1 million purchase order from a U.S. repeat customer in the HLS industry for our advanced Jupiter-based video solution.

    Strategic Partnerships

    ●    In March 2024, we entered into a collaboration agreement with Renesas Electronics Corporation, one of the world’s largest semiconductor manufacturers, and we were accepted into the Renesas’ Preferred Partner Program; and

    ●    In June 2024, we entered into a collaboration agreement with LightPath Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: LPTH) (“LightPath”) for AI-Ready Infrared Cameras, providing AI accelerated hardware, software and algorithms for LightPath’s infrared cameras.

    New Products & Developments

    ●    In February 2024, we launched Emerald, a Jupiter-based multiple-channel high-definition and standard-definition raw video recording platform especially designed for defense armored vehicles;

    ●    In July 2024, we unveiled Diamond – a revolutionary defense 360° 3D Situational Awareness Solution for armored fighting vehicles;

    ●    In September 2024, we announced that our Amethyst Edge Computing video solution now supports 5G, enabling ultra-speed and high data transfer;

    ●    In September 2024, we enhanced our Diamond platform ability to combat airborne threats with Diamond Ultra; and

    ●    In December 2024, we completed the development of Uranus-Drones technology, which is now available for large-scale delivery.

    Expanded Global Awareness

    Maris-Tech strengthened our presence in the U.S. with the engagement of new sales representatives and increased participation in international defense and technology exhibitions, showcasing the Company’s cutting-edge solutions to a global audience.

    Backlog and Outlook

    Our backlog as of January 1, 2025, was approximately $9.8 million, which represents an increase from our backlog as of January 1, 2024, of approximately $9.76 million. Our backlog, as of March 28, 2025, was approximately $9.9 million.

    We define backlog as the accumulation of all pending orders with a later fulfillment date for which revenue has not been recognized, and we consider valid. The backlog consists of executed purchase orders from new customers and existing customers with which we have had long standing relationships and from governmental agencies.

    Mr. Bar concluded, “We remain committed to driving long-term growth by focusing on strategic innovation, expanding our market presence, and strengthening our relationships with global defense and homeland security customers. We believe that our pipeline of opportunities and strong order backlog position us well for continued growth in 2025 and beyond.”

    About Maris-Tech Ltd.

    Maris-Tech is a global leader in video and AI-based edge computing technology, pioneering intelligent video transmission solutions that conquer complex encoding-decoding challenges. Our miniature, lightweight, and low-power products deliver high-performance capabilities, including raw data processing, seamless transfer, advanced image processing, and AI-driven analytics. Founded by Israeli technology sector veterans, Maris-Tech serves leading manufacturers worldwide in defense, aerospace, Intelligence gathering, homeland security (HLS), and communication industries. We’re pushing the boundaries of video transmission and edge computing, driving innovation in mission-critical applications across commercial and defense sectors.

    For more information, visit https://www.maris-tech.com/

    Forward-Looking Statement Disclaimer

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, that are intended to be covered by the “safe harbor” created by those sections. Forward-looking statements, which are based on certain assumptions and describe the Company’s future plans, strategies and expectations, can generally be identified by the use of forward-looking terms such as “believe,” “expect”,” “may”, “should,” “could,” “seek,” “intend,” “plan,” “goal,” “estimate,” “anticipate” or other comparable terms. For example, the Company is using forward-looking statements when it is discussing: its growth in 2025 and beyond; expanding its market presence; strengthening its relationships with global defense and homeland security customers; future pipeline and opportunities; its backlog and the anticipated fulfillment of that backlog; the demand for its defense and AI-powered solutions; expanding its  presence in key markets; and its position in the defense sector, particularly in the miniature drone and unmanned aerial vehicles industry, and in armored vehicles and tanks. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of the Company’s control. The Company’s actual results and financial condition may differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause the Company’s actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements include, among others, the following: the Company’s ability to successfully market its products and services, including in the United States; the acceptance of its products and services by customers; its continued ability to pay operating costs and ability to meet demand for its products and services; the amount and nature of competition from other security and telecom products and services; the effects of changes in the cybersecurity and telecom markets; its ability to successfully develop new products and services; its success establishing and maintaining collaborative, strategic alliance agreements, licensing and supplier arrangements; its ability to comply with applicable regulations; and the other risks and uncertainties described in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2024, filed with the SEC on March 28, 2025, and its other filings with the SEC. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise.

    Investor Relations:

    Nir Bussy, CFO
    Tel: +972-72-2424022
    Nir@maris-tech.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Westport Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2024 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, March 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Westport Fuel Systems Inc. (“Westport”) (TSX: WPRT / Nasdaq: WPRT) today reported financial results for the fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 2024, and provided an update on operations. All figures are in U.S. dollars unless otherwise stated.

    “The past year has been transformative for Westport as we sharpened our strategic focus, advanced our clean transportation technologies, and enhanced operational efficiencies. We have made significant strides in aligning our operations with our competitive strengths, improving margins, and reinforcing our commitment to delivering cost-effective solutions that drive decarbonization in the transportation sector. We have also transformed our culture to be one built on discipline and excellence, driving a high-performance mindset in everything we do.

    The launch of Cespira, our joint venture with Volvo Group, was a key milestone for us in 2024. Cespira is committed to accelerating the commercialization of HPDI™ technology with carbon-neutral fuels like hydrogen and renewable natural gas. This partnership underscores the industry’s recognition of HPDI as a leading solution to enable affordable, sustainable heavy transport.

    Additionally, we are taking bold steps to streamline our operations and strengthen our financial footing, allowing us to focus on areas with the highest growth potential. A prime example of this strategic realignment is our recently announced proposed divestiture of the Light-Duty business. This decision is expected to enable us to concentrate fully on providing affordable solutions for hard to decarbonize mobility applications like long haul and heavy-duty trucking that can take advantage of the unique, practical and affordable HPDI technology and our world class high-pressure components and systems technologies and scalable alternative fuel solutions, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of emissions-reducing innovations that are cost effective.

    Looking ahead, we are focused on scaling our alternative fuel-based solutions, including advancements in CNG, RNG, and hydrogen systems, while navigating a rapidly evolving transportation landscape. Hydrogen remains a critical component of the future but, in the meantime, we are delivering practical, commercially viable low-carbon solutions today such as natural gas and renewable natural gas solutions which, in some cases, can represent a lower total cost of ownership than incumbent technologies. Driven by these environmental and economic considerations we are seeing a global resurgence of interest in the heavy-duty transport sector towards utilizing natural gas as an alternative to diesel. While we will continue to invest in technology, we are positioned to take advantage of markets that are embracing products enabled by our years of investment in innovation as the world pivots to more practical and cost-effective solutions to decarbonize.  

    We are committed to providing sustainable, high-performance solutions that help our customers achieve their commercial and environmental goals, now and for years to come.”

    Dan Sceli, Chief Executive Officer

    2024 Highlights

    • Revenue was $302.3 million for 2024 and $75.1 million for the fourth quarter. Full year results were primarily driven by the transition of the Heavy-Duty OEM business into Cespira, partially offset by an increase in revenue in our Light-Duty segment. Cespira earned $22.8 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024 and $43.1 million for the period from June 3, 2024 through to December 31, 2024.
    • Net loss for the year ended December 31, 2024 was $21.8 million, or $1.27 loss per share, compared to net loss of $49.7 million for the prior year. Net loss for the fourth quarter in 2024 was $10.1 million, or $0.59 loss per share, compared to net loss of $13.9 million, or $0.81 loss per share, for the same period in 2023. For the year, the net positive change was primarily a result of improvements in gross margin, a $15.2 million gain on deconsolidation of the HPDI business in the formation of the joint venture with Volvo Group on June 3, 2024, reductions in operating expenditures and depreciation and amortization expense due to continuation of the HPDI business in Cespira, partially offset by higher income tax expense and foreign exchange losses in the year.
    • Adjusted EBITDA1 loss of $11.2 million, compared to a loss of $21.5 million in the prior year. Adjusted EBITDA for the fourth quarter was a loss of $1.8 million.
    • Cash and cash equivalents were $37.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2024. Cash provided by operating activities during the year was $7.2 million.
    • Announced the closing the HPDI joint venture, Cespira, with Volvo Group, working together to accelerate the commercialization and global adoption of the HPDI™ fuel system technology for long-haul and off-road applications.

    1 Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes and depreciation is a non-GAAP measure. Please refer to GAAP and NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES in Westport’s Management Discussion and Analysis for the reconciliation.

    Consolidated Results            
    ($ in millions, except per share amounts)     Over / (Under)
    %    		     Over / (Under)
    %
      4Q24 4Q23 FY24 FY23
    Revenue $75.1 $87.2 (14)% $302.3 $331.8   (9)%  
    Gross Profit(2) 14.3 8.0 79% 57.6 48.9   18%  
    Gross Margin(2) 19% 9% — 19% 15%   —  
    Income (loss) from Investments Accounted for by the Equity Method(1) (2.0) 0.1 (2,100)% (5.4) 0.8   (775)%  
    Net Loss (10.1) (13.9) 27% (21.8) (49.7)   56%  
    Net Loss per Share – Basic (0.59) (0.81) 27% (1.27) (2.90)   56%  
    Net Loss per Share – Diluted (0.59) (0.81) 27% (1.27) (2.90)   56%  
    EBITDA (2) (6.1) (10.9) 44% (6.6) (35.9)   82%  
    Adjusted EBITDA (2) (1.8) (10.0) 82% (11.2) (21.5)   48%  

    (1)This includes income or loss primarily from our investments in Cespira and Minda Westport Technologies Limited
    (2)Gross margins, EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are non-GAAP measures. Please refer to GAAP and NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES for the reconciliation to equivalent GAAP measures and limitations on the use of such measures.

    Segment Information

    Light-Duty Segment

    Revenue for the three months and year ended December 31, 2024 was $68.0 million and $262.2 million, respectively, compared with $63.4 million and $263.6 million for the three months and year ended December 31, 2023.

    Light-Duty revenue increased by $4.6 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024 as compared to the prior year. This was primarily driven by a significant increase in sales of LPG fuel system solutions to a global Original Equipment Manufacturer (“OEM”) for their Euro 6 vehicle applications in our light-duty OEM business and an increase in delayed OEM business, partially offset by lower revenues in other business lines.

    Light-Duty revenue decreased by $1.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to the prior year. This was primarily driven by a decrease in sales in our delayed OEM business in the first half of 2024, decrease in sales to customers in developing markets, and our fuel storage business. This was partially offset by the aforementioned increase in sales of LPG fuel system solutions in our light-duty OEM business.

    Gross profit increased by $2.0 million to $14.0 million, or 21% of revenue for the three months ended December 31, 2024, as compared to $12.0 million, or 19% of revenue, for the same prior year period. This was primarily driven by a change in sales mix with an increase in sales to European customers and a reduction in sales to developing regions along with an increase in sales volumes.

    Gross profit for the year ended December 31, 2024 increased by $6.3 million to $55.4 million, or 21% of revenue, compared to $49.1 million, or 19% of revenue, for the prior year. This was primarily driven by a change in sales mix with an increase in sales to European customers and a reduction in sales to developing regions. The segment’s manufacturing operations continues to implement operational improvement initiatives lowering its manufacturing overhead costs in the year. For the year ended December 31, 2024, Light-Duty recorded inventory write-downs of $2.1 million related to our restructuring activities in India for $0.9 million and $0.5 million related to components for markets that we have exited, and the remainder due to our periodic analysis of excess and obsolete inventory.

    Westport began supplying its Euro 6 LPG fuel system to its global OEM customer in early 2024. This production supply agreement has been instrumental in improving revenue and delivering higher margins, which more than offset the decline in revenue as a result of a key delayed OEM customer continuing to work through their inventory. Production for the Euro 7 LPG fuel system for the same global OEM customer is anticipated to begin mid-to-late 2025.

    High-Pressure Controls & Systems Segment

    Revenue for the three months and year ended December 31, 2024 was $1.4 million and $8.8 million, respectively, compared with $2.5 million and $12.0 million for the three months and year ended December 31, 2023. Revenue for the three months ended December 31, 2024 decreased by $1.1 million compared to the prior year period. Revenue for the year ended December 31, 2024 decreased $3.2 million compared to the prior year.

    The decrease in revenue for the three months and year ended December 31, 2024 compared to the prior year periods continues to be primarily driven by the general slowdown in hydrogen infrastructure development, leading to a slower adoption of automotive and industrial applications powered by hydrogen.

    Gross profit for the three months ended December 31, 2024 decreased by $0.4 million to nominal, or 0% of revenue, compared to $0.4 million, or 16% of revenue, for the same prior year period. This was primarily driven by lower sales volumes, increasing the per unit manufacturing costs in the quarter.

    Gross profit for the year ended December 31, 2024 decreased by $1.3 million to $1.5 million, or 17% of revenue, compared to $2.8 million, or 23% of revenue, for the prior year. This was primarily driven by decrease in sales volume for the year. The segment recorded $0.8 million in inventory write-downs in the year due to slow-moving inventory.

    Heavy-Duty OEM Segment

    Revenue for the three months and year ended December 31, 2024 includes revenue until the closing of the transaction to form Cespira, which occurred on June 3, 2024. Revenue for the three months and year ended December 31, 2024 was $5.7 million and $31.3 million, respectively, compared with $21.3 million and $56.2 million for the three months and year ended December 31, 2023.

    The decrease in revenue for the three months and year ended December 31, 2024 is a result of the continuation of the business in Cespira. Refer to the “Selected Cespira Financial Information” for more information on the performance of the business. Revenue earned in the three months ended December 31, 2024 reflects revenue earned from a transitional services agreement in place with Cespira that we expect to expire by the end of Q2 2026.

    Gross profit for the three months ended December 31, 2024 increased by $4.7 million to $0.3 million, or 5% of revenue, compared to negative $4.4 million or negative 21% of revenue, for the three months ended December 31, 2023. The Heavy-Duty OEM segment was impacted by a $4.5 million inventory write-down in the prior year period.

    Gross profit increased by $3.7 million to $0.7 million, or 2% of revenue, for the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to negative $3.0 million, or negative 5% of revenue, for the prior year. Heavy-Duty OEM recorded $0.4 million in inventory write-downs in the year. The segment was impacted by the aforementioned inventory write-down of $4.5 million in the prior year.

    Selected Cespira Financial Information

    We account for Cespira using the equity method of accounting. However, due to its significance to our long-term strategy and operating results, we disclose certain financial information from Cespira in notes 8 and 22 in our consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2024 and the period from June 3, 2024 to December 31, 2024.

    The following table sets forth a summary of the financial results of Cespira for the three months ended December 31, 2024 and the period between June 3, 2024 to December 31, 2024:

      (in millions of U.S. dollars)   Three months ended December 31,   Change   Year ended December 31,   Change
        2024   2023   $   %   2024   2023   $   %
    Revenue   $ 22.8     $ —     $ 22.8     — %   $ 43.1     $ —     $ 43.1     — %
    Gross profit     1.4       —       1.4     — %     0.5       —       0.5     — %
    Gross margin1     6 %     — %             1 %     — %        
    Operating loss     (4.8 )     —       (4.8 )   — %     (12.1 )     —       (12.1 )   — %
    Net loss attributable to the Company     (2.6 )     —       (2.6 )   — %     (6.7 )     —       (6.7 )   — %

    1Gross margin is non-GAAP financial measure. See the section ‘Non-GAAP Financial Measures’ for explanations and discussions of these non-GAAP financial measures or ratios.

    Cespira revenue was $22.8 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024. For the prior year period, the Heavy-Duty OEM segment, which included our HPDI business, earned $21.3 million. This was primarily driven by an increase in HPDI fuel systems sold in the period.

    Cespira gross profit was $1.4 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024. For the prior year period, the Heavy-Duty OEM segment had negative $4.4 million in gross profit primarily driven by the aforementioned $4.5 million inventory write-down in the prior year period.

    Cespira incurred operating losses of $4.8 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024. For the prior year quarter, the Heavy-Duty OEM had operating losses of $9.3 million. Aside from the aforementioned inventory write-down in the prior year period, the Heavy-Duty OEM had comparable operating losses compared to Cespira.

    As previously announced, Westport and Weichai are parties to a technology development and supply agreement which contains an obligation for Weichai to order, and Westport to supply, certain volumes of HPDI fuel system components prior to December 31, 2024. Significant orders for HPDI fuel system components against this agreement were not received prior to year-end. Westport and Cespira continue to collaborate with Weichai Power Co. Ltd (“Weichai Power”) on an HPDI fuel system equipped version of the Weichai Power engine platforms. The parties are currently discussing the next stages of this work and the obligations of each party going forward.

    Liquidity and Going Concern

    In addition, as disclosed in Westport Management Discussion & Analysis, for the year ended December 31, 2024, we continue to sustain operating losses and use cash to support our business activities. Cash provided by operating activities was $7.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 was primarily driven by reductions in working capital.

    As at December 31, 2024, we had cash and cash equivalents of $37.6 million and long-term debt of $33.7 million, of which $14.7 million was current. Based on our projected capital expenditures, debt servicing obligations and operating requirements under our current business plan, we are projecting that our cash and cash equivalents will not be sufficient to fund our operations through the next twelve months from the date of the issuance of this MD&A. These conditions raise substantial doubt about Westport’s ability continue as a going concern within one year after the date our December 31, 2024 Consolidated Financial Statements are issued.

    We plan to improve our liquidity position by selling certain subsidiaries in Europe and Argentina which comprise substantially all the assets and liabilities reported within the Light-Duty segment and continue our cost reduction initiatives. On March 30, 2025, we entered into a share purchase agreement (“SPA”) with a wholly-owned investment vehicle of Heliaca Investments Coöperatief U.A. (“Heliaca Investments”), a Netherlands based investment firm supported by Ramphastos Investment Management B.V. a prominent Dutch venture capital and private equity firm, to sell all of the issued and outstanding shares of Westport Fuel Systems Italia S.r.l for a base purchase price of $73.1 million (€67.7 million), subject to certain adjustments and potential earnouts of up to an estimated $6.5 million (€6.0 million) if certain conditions are achieved, in accordance with the terms of the Share Purchase Agreement. If we are successful in closing the sale, we will receive sufficient cash to fund our operations for the next twelve months and alleviate the risk of substantial doubt identified. As of the date of issuance of our December 31, 2024 financial statements, we are seeking shareholder approval of the plan to complete the sale of these businesses to the buyer. As such, there can be no assurances that Westport will be successful in obtaining sufficient funding. Accordingly, we concluded under the accounting standards that these plans do not alleviate the substantial doubt about Westport’s ability to continue as a going concern.

    Divestment of the Light-Duty Business and 2025 Outlook

    Westport recently announced the proposed divestment of its Light-Duty business, which includes the light-duty OEM, delayed OEM, and independent aftermarket businesses (the “Transaction”). The Transaction is designed to focus the Company’s strategy and streamline its operations allowing Westport to direct its energy on solution to address hard to decarbonize sectors like long-haul, heavy-duty trucking and off-road applications that can take advantage of Cespira and our High-Pressure Controls & Systems technology – where Westport sees the largest opportunities to grow and where the Company has a unique and differentiated offering generating interest with customers as the world transitions to a more practical and easier to adopt approach to decarbonization.

    Highlights of the Transaction include:

    • Provides immediate up front proceeds to alleviate liquidity concerns, strengthening the balance sheet and funds near-term growth in Cespira and the High-Pressure Controls & Systems business;
    • Brings forward more cash today than the Light-Duty business was projected to earn over 5-years on an undiscounted cash basis; and
    • Enables management to focus exclusively on the higher growth HPDI and high-pressure segments.

    In light of the evolving market and regulatory environment, over the long term, the Light-Duty business’ ability to grow LPG / CNG sales in developed markets is expected to continue facing increased competition from pure electrification or petrol – electrification hybrids.

    The base purchase price of the Transaction is $73.1 million (€67.7 million), subject to certain adjustments and potential earnouts of up to an additional $6.5 million (€6.0 million) if certain conditions are achieved, in accordance with the terms of the Share Purchase Agreement. The purchaser is a wholly-owned investment vehicle of Heliaca Investments Coöperatief U.A. (“Heliaca Investments”), a Netherlands based investment firm supported by Ramphastos Investment Management B.V. a prominent Dutch venture capital and private equity firm.

    Net proceeds from the transaction are to be used to bolster the balance sheet, fund organic growth opportunities through Cespira and High-Pressure Controls & Systems over the near term as well as opportunistic bolt on acquisitions. The Transaction ultimately eliminates future restructuring costs required by the Italian operations in the light-duty business.

    Westport is shifting to a smaller, more focused organization, that is positioned to provide solutions to decarbonize challenging segments of the mobility and industrial markets.​ Westport has 30 years of experience delivering component solutions and developing HPDI fuel technology​. We are focused on scaling our alternative fuel-based solutions, including advancements in CNG, RNG, and hydrogen systems, while navigating a rapidly evolving transportation landscape.

    The Company anticipates that the closing of the transaction will occur late in Q2 2025, subject to receiving shareholder approval.

    Conference call

    Westport has scheduled a conference call for Monday, March 31, 2025, at 10:30 am Pacific Time (1:30 pm Eastern Time) to discuss these results. To access the conference call please register at https://register.vevent.com/register/BI1ba7402b85a5491292e48354a2e80b90. 

    The live webcast of the conference call can be accessed through the Westport website at https://investors.wfsinc.com/. 

    Participants may register up to 60 minutes before the event by clicking on the call link and completing the online registration form. Upon registration, the user will receive dial-in info and a unique PIN, along with an email confirming the details.

    The webcast will be archived on Westport’s website at https://investors.wfsinc.com. 

    Financial Statements and Management’s Discussion and Analysis

    To view Westport full financials for the fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 2024, please visit https://investors.wfsinc.com/financials/. 

    About Westport Fuel Systems

    At Westport Fuel Systems, we are driving innovation to power a cleaner tomorrow. We are a leading supplier of advanced fuel delivery components and systems for clean, low-carbon fuels such as natural gas, renewable natural gas, propane, and hydrogen to the global transportation industry. Our technology delivers the performance and fuel efficiency required by transportation applications and the environmental benefits that address climate change and urban air quality challenges. Headquartered in Vancouver, Canada, with operations in Europe, Asia, North America, and South America, we serve our customers in approximately 70 countries with leading global transportation brands. At Westport Fuel Systems, we think ahead. For more information, visit www.wfsinc.com.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements
    This press release contains forward-looking statements, including statements regarding future strategic initiatives and future growth, future of our development programs (including those relating to HPDI and Hydrogen) including testing to the HPDI fuel system, scaling our alternative fuel-based solutions, our expectations for 2025 and beyond, including the demand for our products, the future success of our business and technology strategies, shareholder approval of the Transaction, our ability to successfully close the Transaction and realize the benefits therefrom, including, potential earn-out payments, the Transaction alleviating liquidity concerns, our focus on providing affordable solutions to decarbonize long haul and heavy-duty trucking, our ability to bolster our balance sheet, fund organic growth as well as opportunistic bolt on acquisitions, a shift to operating as a smaller, more efficient organization. These statements are neither promises nor guarantees, but involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on both the views of management and assumptions that may cause our actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, levels of activities, performance or achievements expressed in or implied by these forward-looking statements. These risks, uncertainties and assumptions include those related to our revenue growth, operating results, industry and products, changes in business strategy, shifts in market demand, the general economy including impacts due to inflation, the effects of competition and pricing pressures, conditions of and access to the capital and debt markets, solvency, governmental policies, trade restrictions or other changes to international trade agreements, sanctions and regulation including the imposition of tariffs, technology innovations, fluctuations in foreign exchange rates, operating expenses, continued reduction in expenses, ability to successfully commercialize new products, the performance of our joint ventures, the availability and price of natural gas, new environmental regulations, the acceptance of and shift to natural gas and hydrogen vehicles, the relaxation or waiver of fuel emission standards, the inability of fleets to access capital or government funding to purchase natural gas vehicles, the development of competing technologies, our ability to adequately develop and deploy our technology, the actions and determinations of our joint venture and development partners, the effects and duration of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, supply chain disruptions as well as other risk factors and assumptions that may affect our actual results, performance or achievements or financial position discussed in our most recent Annual Information Form and other filings with securities regulators. Readers should not place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date they were made. We disclaim any obligation to publicly update or revise such statements to reflect any change in our expectations or in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statements may be based, or that may affect the likelihood that actual results will differ from those set forth in these forward-looking statements except as required by National Instrument 51-102. The contents of any website, RSS feed or twitter account referenced in this press release are not incorporated by reference herein.

    Inquiries:
    Investor Relations
    T: +1 604-718-2046
    invest@wfsinc.com

    GAAP and Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    Our financial statements are prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP“). These U.S. GAAP financial statements include non-cash charges and other charges and benefits that may be unusual or infrequent in nature or that we believe may make comparisons to our prior or future performance difficult. In addition to conventional measures prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP, Westport and certain investors use EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA as an indicator of our ability to generate liquidity by producing operating cash flow to fund working capital needs, service debt obligations and fund capital expenditures. Management also uses these non-GAAP measures in its review and evaluation of the financial performance of Westport. EBITDA is also frequently used by investors and analysts for valuation purposes whereby EBITDA is multiplied by a factor or “EBITDA multiple” that is based on an observed or inferred relationship between EBITDA and market values to determine the approximate total enterprise value of a company. We believe that these non-GAAP financial measures also provide additional insight to investors and securities analysts as supplemental information to our U.S. GAAP results and as a basis to compare our financial performance period-over-period and to compare our financial performance with that of other companies. We believe that these non-GAAP financial measures facilitate comparisons of our core operating results from period to period and to other companies by, in the case of EBITDA, removing the effects of our capital structure (net interest income on cash deposits, interest expense on outstanding debt and debt facilities), asset base (depreciation and amortization) and tax consequences. Adjusted EBITDA provides this same indicator of Westports’ EBITDA from continuing operations and removing such effects of our capital structure, asset base and tax consequences, but additionally excludes any unrealized foreign exchange gains or losses, stock-based compensation charges and other one-time impairments and costs which are not expected to be repeated in order to provide greater insight into the cash flow being produced from our operating business, without the influence of extraneous events.

    Segment Information

    EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are intended to provide additional information to investors and analysts and do not have any standardized definition under U.S. GAAP, and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA exclude the impact of cash costs of financing activities and taxes, and the effects of changes in operating working capital balances, and therefore are not necessarily indicative of operating profit or cash flow from operations as determined under U.S. GAAP. Other companies may calculate EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA differently.

    Segment earnings or losses before income taxes, interest, depreciation, and amortization (“Segment EBITDA”) is the measure of segment profitability used by the Company. The accounting policies of our reportable segments are the same as those applied in our consolidated financial statements. Management prepared the financial results of the Company’s reportable segments on basis that is consistent with the manner in which Management internally disaggregates financial information to assist in making internal operating decisions. Certain common costs and expenses, primarily corporate functions, among segments differently than we would for stand-alone financial information prepared in accordance with GAAP. These include certain costs and expenses of shared services, such as IT, human resources, legal, finance and supply chain management. Segment EBITDA is not defined under US GAAP and may not be comparable to similarly titled measures used by other companies and should not be considered a substitute for net earnings or other results reported in accordance with GAAP. Reconciliations of reportable segment information to consolidated statement of operations can be found in section “NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES & RECONCILIATIONS” within this press release.

      Year ended December 31, 2024
      Light-Duty   High-Pressure Controls & Systems   Heavy-Duty OEM   Cespira   Total Segment
    Revenue $ 262.2   $ 8.8     $ 31.3     $ 43.1     $ 345.4  
    Cost of revenue   206.8     7.3       30.6       42.6       287.3  
    Gross profit   55.4     1.5       0.7       0.5       58.1  
    Operating expenses:
    Research & development   13.0     4.4       4.2       4.7       26.3  
    General & administrative   19.2     1.0       3.1       5.6       28.9  
    Sales & marketing   9.9     0.7       0.9       1.0       12.5  
    Depreciation & amortization   2.6     0.3       0.1       1.7       4.7  
    Equity income   1.3     —       —       —       1.3  
    Add back: Depreciation & amortization1   6.4     0.5       1.4       3.8       12.1  
    Segment EBITDA $ 18.4   $ (4.4 )   $ (6.2 )   $ (8.7 )   $ (0.9 )
      Year ended December 31, 2023
      Light-Duty   High-Pressure Controls & Systems   Heavy-Duty OEM   Total Segment
    Revenue $ 263.6   $ 12.0     $ 56.2     $ 331.8  
    Cost of revenue   214.5     9.2       59.2       282.9  
    Gross profit   49.1     2.8       (3.0 )     48.9  
    Operating expenses:
    Research & development   13.1     3.6       9.3       26.0  
    General & administrative   21.6     1.3       6.4       29.4  
    Sales & marketing   10.6     0.7       2.9       14.1  
    Depreciation & amortization   3.2     0.2       0.4       3.8  
    Equity income   0.8     —       —       0.8  
    Add back: Depreciation & amortization1   6.7     0.4       4.9       11.9  
    Segment EBITDA $ 8.1   $ (2.6 )   $ (17.1 )   $ (11.6 )


    NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES RECONCILIATION

    Gross Profit   Years ended December 31,
    (expressed in millions of U.S. dollars)   2024   2023
    Revenue   $ 302.3   $ 331.8
    Less: Cost of revenue   $ 244.7   $ 282.9
    Gross Profit   $ 57.6   $ 48.9
    Gross Margin as a percentage of Revenue   Years ended December 31,
    (expressed in millions of U.S. dollars)     2024       2023  
    Revenue   $ 302.3     $ 331.8  
    Gross Margin   $ 57.6     $ 48.9  
    Gross Margin as a percentage of Revenue     19 %     15 %
      Year ended December 31, 2024
      Total Segment   Less: Cespira   Add: Corporate & unallocated   Total Consolidated
    Revenue $ 345.4   $ 43.1   $ —     $ 302.3  
    Cost of revenue   287.3     42.6     —       244.7  
    Gross profit   58.1     0.5     —       57.6  
    Operating expenses:
    Research & development   26.3     4.7     —       21.6  
    General & administrative   28.9     5.6     14.4       37.7  
    Sales & marketing   12.5     1.0     1.2       12.7  
    Depreciation & amortization   4.7     1.7     0.4       3.4  
    Equity income (loss)   1.3     —     (6.7 )     (5.4 )
      Year ended December 31, 2023
      Total Segment   Add: Corporate & unallocated   Total Consolidated
    Revenue $ 331.8   $ —   $ 331.8
    Cost of revenue   282.9     —     282.9
    Gross profit   48.9     —     48.9
    Operating expenses:
    Research & development   26.0     —     26.0
    General & administrative   29.4     14.8     44.2
    Sales & marketing   14.1     2.2     16.3
    Depreciation & amortization   3.8     0.5     4.3
    Equity income   0.8     —     0.8
    Reconciliation of Segment EBITDA to Loss before income taxes   Years ended December 31,
        2024       2023  
    Total Segment EBITDA   $ (0.9 )   $ (11.6 )
    Adjustments:
    Depreciation and amortization     8.7       12.5  
    Cespira’s Segment EBITDA     (8.7 )     —  
    Cespira’s equity loss     6.7       —  
    Corporate and unallocated operating expenses     15.6       17.0  
    Foreign exchange loss     6.2       4.0  
    Loss on sale of assets     0.7       —  
    Gain on deconsolidation     (15.2 )     —  
    Loss on sale of investment     0.4       —  
    Impairment of long-term investment     —       0.4  
    Loss on extinguishment of royalty payable     —       2.9  
    Interest on long-term debt and accretion of royalty payable     2.8       3.0  
    Interest and other income, net of bank charges     (1.2 )     (2.7 )
    Loss before income taxes   $ (16.9 )   $ (48.7 )
    EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA                
    Three months ended   31-Mar-23   30-Jun-23   30-Sep-23   31-Dec-23   31-Mar-24   30-Jun-24   30-Sep-24   31-Dec-24
    Income (loss) before income taxes   $         (9.7 )   $         (13.0 )   $         (12.0 )   $         (14.0 )   $         (12.9 )   $         6.8             $         (2.5 )   $         (8.3 )
    Interest expense, net             0.4                       (0.1 )             0.2                       (0.2 )             0.5                       0.5                       0.4                       0.2          
    Depreciation and amortization             3.0                       3.0                       3.2                       3.3                       3.2                       1.7                       1.8                       2.0          
    EBITDA   $         (6.3 )   $         (10.1 )   $         (8.6 )   $         (10.9 )   $         (9.2 )   $         9.0             $         (0.3 )   $         (6.1 )
    Stock based compensation (recovery)   $         0.7             $         0.8             $         (0.3 )   $         1.4             $         0.3             $         1.2             $         (0.1 )   $         —          
    Unrealized foreign exchange (gain) loss   $         1.1             $         2.4             $         1.4             $         (0.9 )   $         1.8             $         0.1             $         (1.1 )   $         5.4          
    Loss on extinguishment of royalty payable   $         —             $         2.9             $         —             $         —             $         —             $         —             $         —             $         —          
    Severance costs   $         —             $         —             $         4.5             $         —             $         0.5             $         0.2             $         0.1             $         0.1          
    Gain on deconsolidation   $         —             $         —             $         —             $         —             $         —             $         (13.3 )   $         —             $         (1.9 )
    Loss on sale of investment   $         —             $         —             $         —             $         —             $         —             $         —             $         0.4             $         —          
    Restructuring costs   $         —             $         —             $         —             $         —             $         —             $         0.8             $         0.2             $         —          
    Loss on sale of assets   $         —             $         —             $         —             $         —             $         —             $         —             $         —             $         0.7          
    Impairment of long-term investment   $         —             $         —             $         —             $         0.4             $         —             $         —             $         —             $         —          
    Adjusted EBITDA   $         (4.5 )   $         (4.0 )   $         (3.0 )   $         (10.0 )   $         (6.6 )   $         (2.0 )   $         (0.8 )   $         (1.8 )
    WESTPORT FUEL SYSTEMS INC.
    Consolidated Balance Sheets
    (Expressed in thousands of United States dollars, except share amounts)
    December 31, 2024 and 2023
        December 31,
          2024       2023  
    Assets        
    Current assets:        
    Cash and cash equivalents (including restricted cash)   $ 37,646     $ 54,853  
    Accounts receivable     73,054       88,077  
    Inventories     53,526       67,530  
    Prepaid expenses     5,660       6,323  
    Total current assets     169,886       216,783  
    Long-term investments     39,732       4,792  
    Property, plant and equipment     41,956       69,489  
    Operating lease right-of-use assets     19,019       22,877  
    Intangible assets     5,277       6,822  
    Deferred income tax assets     9,695       11,554  
    Goodwill     2,876       3,066  
    Other long-term assets     3,180       20,365  
    Total assets   $ 291,621     $ 355,748  
    Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity        
    Current liabilities:        
    Accounts payable and accrued liabilities   $ 88,123     $ 95,374  
    Current portion of operating lease liabilities     2,624       3,307  
    Short-term debt     —       15,156  
    Current portion of long-term debt     14,660       14,108  
    Current portion of warranty liability     3,861       6,892  
    Total current liabilities     109,268       134,837  
    Long-term operating lease liabilities     16,433       19,300  
    Long-term debt     19,067       30,957  
    Warranty liability     1,456       1,614  
    Deferred income tax liabilities     4,029       3,477  
    Other long-term liabilities     4,343       5,115  
    Total liabilities     154,596       195,300  
    Shareholders’ equity:        
    Share capital:        
    Unlimited common and preferred shares, no par value        
    17,282,934 (2023 – 17,174,502) common shares issued and outstanding     1,245,805       1,244,539  
    Other equity instruments     9,472       9,672  
    Additional paid-in-capital     11,516       11,516  
    Accumulated deficit     (1,096,275 )     (1,074,434 )
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss     (33,493 )     (30,845 )
    Total shareholders’ equity     137,025       160,448  
    Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity   $ 291,621     $ 355,748  
    WESTPORT FUEL SYSTEMS INC.  
    Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss)  
    (Expressed in thousands of United States dollars, except share and per share amounts)  
    Years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023  
        Years ended December 31,
          2024       2023  
    Revenue   $ 302,299     $ 331,799  
    Cost of revenue     244,708       282,862  
    Gross profit     57,591       48,937  
    Operating expenses:        
    Research and development     21,587       26,003  
    General and administrative     37,679       44,234  
    Sales and marketing     12,676       16,278  
    Foreign exchange loss     6,248       3,974  
    Depreciation and amortization     3,367       4,299  
    Loss on sale of assets     703       32  
          82,260       94,820  
    Loss from operations     (24,669 )     (45,883 )
             
    Income from investments accounted for by the equity method     (5,402 )     780  
    Gain on deconsolidation     15,198       —  
    Loss on sale of investment     (352 )     —  
    Loss on extinguishment of royalty payable     —       (2,909 )
    Interest on long-term debt and accretion of royalty payable     (2,797 )     (2,981 )
    Impairment of long-term investment     —       (413 )
    Interest and other income, net of bank charges     1,161       2,690  
    Loss before income taxes     (16,861 )     (48,716 )
    Income tax expense (recovery):        
    Current     3,183       1,786  
    Deferred     1,797       (784 )
          4,980       1,002  
    Net loss for the year     (21,841 )     (49,718 )
    Other comprehensive income (loss):        
    Cumulative translation adjustment     (2,535 )     4,473  
    Ownership share of equity method investments’ other comprehensive loss   $ (113 )   $ —  
        $ (2,648 )   $ 4,473  
    Comprehensive loss   $ (24,489 )   $ (45,245 )
    Loss per share:        
    Net loss per share – basic and diluted   $ (1.27 )   $ (2.90 )
    Weighted average common shares outstanding:        
    Basic and diluted     17,248,090       17,173,016  
    WESTPORT FUEL SYSTEMS INC.
    Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
    (Expressed in thousands of United States dollars)
    Years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023
        Years ended December 31,
          2024       2023  
             
    Operating activities:        
    Net loss for the year   $ (21,841 )   $ (49,718 )
    Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:        
    Depreciation and amortization     8,661       12,490  
    Stock-based compensation expense     1,066       1,727  
    Unrealized foreign exchange loss     6,248       3,974  
    Deferred income tax expense (recovery)     1,797       (784 )
    Loss (income) from investments accounted for by the equity method     5,402       (780 )
    Interest on long-term debt and accretion of royalty payable     74       9  
    Impairment of long-term investment     —       413  
    Change in inventory write-downs to net realizable value     3,283       7,066  
    Gain on deconsolidation     (15,198 )     —  
    Loss on sale of investment     352       —  
    Net loss on sale of assets     627       32  
    Loss on extinguishment of royalty payable     —       2,909  
    Change in bad debt expense     282       56  
    Changes in operating assets and liabilities:        
    Accounts receivable     25,567       5,340  
    Inventories     (6,836 )     9,481  
    Prepaid expenses     (153 )     2,869  
    Accounts payable and accrued liabilities     2,233       (2,448 )
    Warranty liability     (4,380 )     (5,829 )
    Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities     7,184       (13,193 )
    Investing activities:        
    Purchase of property, plant and equipment     (16,923 )     (15,574 )
    Proceeds on sale of investments     29,994       —  
    Proceeds on sale of assets     998       161  
    Dividends received from investments accounted for by the equity method     297       —  
    Capital contributions to investments accounted for by the equity method     (9,900 )     —  
    Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities     4,466       (15,413 )
    Financing activities:        
    Drawings on operating lines of credit and long-term facilities     19,336       46,367  
    Repayment of operating lines of credit and long-term facilities     (44,546 )     (39,904 )
    Payment of royalty payable     —       (8,687 )
    Net cash used in financing activities     (25,210 )     (2,224 )
    Effect of foreign exchange on cash and cash equivalents     (3,647 )     (501 )
    Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents     (17,207 )     (31,331 )
    Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year (including restricted cash)     54,853       86,184  
    Cash and cash equivalents, end of year (including restricted cash)     37,646       54,853  

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Secretary-General of ASEAN joins ASEAN Foreign Ministers in a Special Emergency Meeting in the aftermath of the earthquake in Myanmar

    Source: ASEAN – Association of SouthEast Asian Nations

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today joined ASEAN Foreign Ministers and the Foreign Minister of Timor-Leste in a Special Emergency Meeting to discuss ASEAN’s humanitarian assistance to Myanmar in the wake of the devastating earthquake that struck central Myanmar, on 28 March 2025. At the Meeting, held via videoconference, ASEAN reaffirmed its support of relief and recovery efforts, based on priorities identified by Myanmar, with the assistance of the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (AHA Centre).

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN joins ASEAN Foreign Ministers in a Special Emergency Meeting in the aftermath of the earthquake in Myanmar appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Statement on the Outcome of the Special Emergency Meeting of ASEAN Foreign Ministers in the Aftermath of the Earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand

    Source: ASEAN – Association of SouthEast Asian Nations

    1. A Special Emergency Meeting of the ASEAN Foreign Ministers was held on 30 March 2025 via videoconference following the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck central Myanmar on 28 March 2025, affecting the peoples of Myanmar and Thailand.

    2. The ASEAN Foreign Ministers extended their deepest sympathies and condolences to the peoples of Myanmar and Thailand who were affected by the earthquake, resulting in significant loss of life, injuries, and widespread destruction, particularly in Mandalay, Nay Pyi Taw, Sagaing, Bangkok, Chiang Mai and surrounding areas.

    To read full statement please click here.
    The post ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Statement on the Outcome of the Special Emergency Meeting of ASEAN Foreign Ministers in the Aftermath of the Earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Global: ‘Adolescence’ pulls in audiences with its dramatic critique of teenage masculinity

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Michael Kehler, Research Professor, Masculinities Studies, School of Education, University of Calgary

    Owen Cooper plays Jamie Miller in Adolescence which looks at the experiences of youth at a British school, showcasing their messy and disturbing experiences. (Netflix/Adolescence)

    This story contains spoilers about ‘Adolescence.’

    Adolescence is a turbulent time. And the transition to adulthood from youth is complicated.

    The recently released British series Adolescence on Netflix has struck a chord for many viewers. The show delves into the messy and often disturbing experiences of youth at a British school including bullying, misogyny, gender-based violence and the manosphere.

    Adolescence explores the impact of masculinity on gender-based violence and youth identities. Viewers step into the life of Jamie (Owen Cooper), a 13-year-old boy who is accused of killing a 13-year-old girl, Katie (Emilia Holliday). Exploring Katie’s violent stabbing death reveals the troubling ways masculinity and gender are manifested in the lives of students.

    An equally compelling part of the narrative is the familiar struggle of parents trying to communicate with, make sense of and support the young people in their lives.

    The routine interactions among the students and the exchanges between parents makes this a disturbing yet compelling part of the series.

    Throughout Adolescence, it’s made clear that too often, parents do not see or hear what is playing out before their very eyes.

    Silences between youth and parents

    We know too well the struggles of adolescence: trying to fit in, experiences with bullying, the impact of Instagram and other social media platforms, incels, the popularity of athletic boys, avoiding phys-ed classes when fearing they’re not athletic, homophobia and the silence between parents and their children.

    Adolescence viewers are unsettled by what we see, but desperate to hear and see more.

    The school depicted in the show portrays almost all students struggling to be heard. It also reveals a rebelliousness and a resistance among teachers required to enforce rules of cellphone bans and uniform regulations amid a chaotic school environment.

    The challenging communication between father and sons is highlighted in this show. Here, Jamie’s father (played by Stephen Graham) speaks with Jamie (played by Owen Cooper).
    (Netflix)

    At the centre of the story is Jamie, the 13-year-old accused boy. He is a child, fearing needles while a teddy bear is nestled on his bed. Ostensibly, he is any boy. And Katie is any girl.

    But Katie is murdered, leaving the viewer to sort though a tangled web of adolescent relationships in which Jamie shows what he believes about being a man, about being masculine. He is both innocent and deeply troubling.

    Gender-based violence

    Police detective Luke Branscombe (Ashley Walters) cannot fathom the anger expressed by Katie’s best friend, Jade (Fatima Bojang), about the murder. He thinks her furious reaction is out of kilter with the murder. He questions why she is over-reacting.

    In his reaction, he shows just how normalized, how routine, gender-based violence has become.

    Katie’s best friend, portrayed by Fatima Bojang, expresses her grief.
    (Netflix)

    A violent outburst by Jamie, who verbally attacks the counsellor who is struggling to understand what being a man feels like for Jamie, is chilling.

    He belittles the counsellor (played by Erin Doherty), suggesting she should be ashamed to be afraid of a 13-year-old boy. The counsellor is subjected to extreme anger and violence pent up in an adolescent boy who has been harbouring feelings of inadequacy but struggling to express them.

    It becomes clear that Jamie had no venue nor language to speak about his feelings about masculinity, his relationships or his deeply held belief that he is “ugly.”

    Like many young people, the youth in Adolescence — Jamie, Jade, Katie, Ryan and Tommy — navigate online sexual harrassment alone. They do so, in part, because they lack support and education in critical media literacy, digital consent and online harassment.

    Teaching them to be boys

    Watching adults struggling to talk with teenagers is not shocking. Notions that boys don’t talk or aren’t emotional are familiar stereotypes of masculinity.

    But what might be shocking to viewers in Adolescence is the raw and unfiltered ways some boys talk violently, aggressively, dismissively and defensively.

    “You do not control what I fucking [do]. Look at me now!” Jamie screams at his counsellor, struggling to express his emotions and his pent-up feelings.

    Boys are not supposed to be vulnerable or emotionally honest, and as Jamie points out, parents are supposed to ignore how boys are feeling or whether they have feelings at all. Like many boys, Jamie has been taught to be a particular kind of boy, which includes years of surveillance, bullying and being ostracized by other, more popular boys.

    Boys learn to hide feelings, repress vulnerabilities and present stoicism and strength above all else.



    Read more:
    Why are school-aged boys so attracted to hateful ideologies?

    Struggling to fit in, desperate to be heard

    Adolescence is a story about adolescent youth with a sharp focus on how they negotiate and embody power. It is a complex story about the ways youth communicate through bullying, surveillance and social media harrassment that is evident both in school lives as well as behind closed doors.

    The viewer is invited to look more closely at the subtle and not so subtle ways gender, power and violence manifest themselves. The show questions how complicit we might be in what young people are learning and how we might respond to both the rebellion as well as the silences, particularly among boys.

    The lure of the manosphere, the attraction of incel groups and the banning of cell phones in schools reflect a deep failure to understand how to communicate with youth. The character Adam, (played by Amari Bacchus), son of the detective investigating the case, is understated and overlooked as he reveals just how little parents understand emojis as yet another language among youth.



    Read more:
    Social media misogyny: The new way Andrew Tate brought us the same old hate

    The circulation of intimate images and picture collecting further speaks to relationships, power and adolescence that is punctuated by a lesson from Adam to his dad about emojis that go far beyond red hearts.

    Adam extends a hand to educate his dad, to open up communication even in the face of assumptions that “boys don’t talk.” He demonstrates a counter-narrative to rigid rules and stereotypes about boys.

    ‘Boys will be boys’

    After all, we are in an era when boys and men are aware of the narratives of masculinity — as muscled, dominant and controlling. But the rules for being a man are being questioned. At the same time, far-right conservatives and online manfluencers have asserted that boys/men are victims in a system that won’t let “boys just be boys.”

    In all of this, we — the viewers, the critics and myself, the masculinity scholar — tread dangerously close to forgetting to say “Katie,” the victim’s name. We focus on boys as pawns with no agency or accountability for what they do in their daily efforts to be accepted as real men.

    We are left then with an invitation to see and hear boys differently, not through stereotypes of masculinity. The loss of membership in the boys club is often too much for many boys to withstand. This includes alienation, bullying, and verbal and physical attacks. And so too many remain silent and complicit, as just “one of the boys.”

    Michael Kehler 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. ‘Adolescence’ pulls in audiences with its dramatic critique of teenage masculinity – https://theconversation.com/adolescence-pulls-in-audiences-with-its-dramatic-critique-of-teenage-masculinity-253093

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Trump’s tariffs could push grocery prices even higher, but there are steps Canada could take to protect consumers

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Mathew Iantorno, Doctoral Candidate, Faculty of Information,, University of Toronto

    The first months of Donald Trump’s presidency have been defined by a single word: tariffs. He has framed tariffs as a panacea to the woes of the American economy, promising they will restore the country’s manufacturing sector and reduce the national deficit.

    As the United States’ largest trading partner, Canada’s smaller economy is poised to suffer the most from a prolonged trade war. Although the price of all consumer goods will be affected, the grocery aisle has become a particular battleground.

    Canadians have remained defiant, with vows to “buy Canadian” already spurring rapid drops in the sale of American products.

    But with calls for the country to strengthen its economic backbone and reduce dependence on the U.S., perhaps it’s also time to consider rebooting Canada’s grocery sector to better serve Canadians as well.



    Read more:
    Canada is now in a trade war with the U.S. — here’s what you need to know to prepare for it

    Canada’s supermarket problem

    Rising grocery bills have been an ongoing concern for Canadians long before Trump’s inauguration. Today, an estimated 18 per cent of Canadians are struggling with food insecurity owing to persistent inflation and the rising cost of living. Food banks saw a record number of monthly visits in 2024 as a result.

    Yet, even as consumers feel the squeeze, Canada’s grocery giants have been posting record profits. Loblaw Companies Limited, whose supermarkets hold a dominant 28 per cent share of the sector, has become the poster child for this trend.

    In the final quarter of 2022, as Canadians were grappling with rapid inflation on their grocery bills, Loblaw posted $529 million in profits — up 30 per cent from the previous year.

    This has led customers to accuse Loblaw and other large grocery chains of profiteering, provoking both a 100,000 signature petition against “greedflation” and a month-long boycott of Loblaw chains. All this while Loblaw was still reeling from a bread price-fixing scandal yielding a $500 million antitrust settlement.



    Read more:
    Food giants reap enormous profits during times of crisis

    In response to the mounting concerns, the federal government met with the heads of Loblaw, Sobeys, Metro, Costco and Walmart in 2023 to discuss stabilizing grocery prices in Canada. Former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau would threaten and later implement amendments to the Competition Act through Bill C-56, although these reforms were focused less on immediately lowering grocery bills and more on giving new tools to Canada’s competition watchdog.

    Investing in the future

    Another area of concern is the initiatives supermarket chains such as Loblaw and Metro have been investing their profits in.

    Since 2020, supermarkets in Canada have invested heavily in self-checkout aisles. While initially a concession to the social distancing measures of the COVID-19 pandemic, these kiosks have become a ubiquitous — and often unwelcome — part of the retail experience for both workers and consumers.

    Beyond the concern that self-checkouts pressure customers to perform more work, they have also increased the precarity of supermarket employees. These technologies generally reduce total worker hours and eliminate well-paying full-time positions, all with an eye towards boosting profit margins.



    Read more:
    The rise of robo-retail: Who gets left behind when retail is automated?

    Loblaw has also invested in automating their fleet of delivery vehicles, jeopardizing jobs in the logistics sector at a time when Canada’s unemployment rate, already struggling to recover, is expected to rise due to Trump’s tariffs.

    There is also the looming concern of dynamic pricing. Following the lead of American grocery stores such as Kroger, chains run by Loblaw, Metro and Sobeys have begun to implement electronic price tags. These tags enable retailers to instantaneously update prices based on supply and demand, similar to surge pricing on ride-sharing apps like Uber.

    Electronic price labels seen at a Walmart in Los Angeles in 2024.
    (Shutterstock)

    While online commentators were quick to mock fast food chain Wendy’s for potentially using dynamic pricing to charge more for a Frosty on a hot day, this practice becomes more problematic as the availability of family staples like baby formula, which already experiences perennial scarcity, are affected by the trade war.

    The sector won’t reform itself

    There is little reason to believe Canada’s grocery industry will reform itself. Many of the pro-consumer and pro-worker initiatives put forth by these chains have amounted to little more than public relations moves.

    The much-lauded COVID hero pay for front-line grocery workers disappeared only months into the pandemic, despite pressure from unions and MPs during the Omicron wave.

    Loblaw’s widely publicized price freeze on No Name products was similarly criticised for its short duration and for merely repackaging seasonal price freezes as a pro-consumer initiative.

    When Loblaw froze prices on No Name products in 2022, its competitor Metro quickly pointed out that seasonal price freezes are in fact a standard industry practice. (CBC News)

    The company’s promise to create a discounted version of its already discounted grocery chain No Frills drew further scepticism, with the stock being entirely sourced from Loblaw brands that generate higher revenue for the company.

    The question remains: what concrete measures can be implemented to safeguard Canadian grocery bills as our country navigates this next crisis?

    Lowering grocery bills for Canadians

    A report from the Broadbent Institute suggests the idea of a windfall profit tax, which would incentivize grocery companies to invest excess profits into price reductions or higher wages.

    A more durable reform would involve creating a central bank-style regulatory entity to oversee the grocery industry, instead of relying on industry-born measures such as Canada’s recently introduced grocery code of conduct.



    Read more:
    The new Grocery Code of Conduct should benefit both Canadians and the food industry

    Federal or provincial legislation could be also passed that places guardrails on dynamic pricing in the grocery aisle, if not banning the controversial practice altogether. Government grants and tax incentive programs could be withheld from companies that invest heavily into automating workforces so the government isn’t inadvertently subsidizing job losses.

    The Competition Bureau’s 2023 report highlights another key issue: there is a need for all levels of government to shift from subsidizing large chains and encourage the growth of independent grocers in the Canadian market, driving down prices for consumers through meaningful, local competition.

    Trump’s trade war has filled Canadians with a newfound pride and motivation to buy local to support the economy. Perhaps it’s time our grocery chains showed the same commitment to the people they serve.

    Mathew Iantorno 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. Trump’s tariffs could push grocery prices even higher, but there are steps Canada could take to protect consumers – https://theconversation.com/trumps-tariffs-could-push-grocery-prices-even-higher-but-there-are-steps-canada-could-take-to-protect-consumers-252879

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Call for information – Stolen motor vehicles – Alice Springs

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force is calling for information in relation to stolen motor vehicles that were sighted driving dangerously in Alice Springs early this morning.

    At 4:15am, police CCTV operators sighted two vehicles being driven recklessly on Todd Street in Alice Springs. One of the vehicles, a white Haval SUV, was allegedly driving behind a security vehicle and attempting to ram it, however no contact was made. The second vehicle, a silver Mazda hatchback, was following closely behind the SUV.

    The two vehicles subsequently left the area and were last sighted travelling towards East Side. Police commenced investigations and Strike Force Viper members located both vehicles a short time later abandoned on Coolibah Crescent. Both have been seized to undergo forensic examination.

    Police attended the registered address of the vehicles in East Side and confirmed they had been stolen earlier in the night.

    Members from the Dog Operations Unit, Strike Force Viper and general duties conducted area patrols to locate the unknown offenders, however they currently remain outstanding.

    Investigations are ongoing and police urge anyone with information to make contact on 131 444. Please quote reference P25087519. Anonymous reports can also be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom proclaims Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day

    Source: US State of California 2

    Mar 30, 2025

    Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring March 30, 2025, as Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day. 

    The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below:

    PROCLAMATION

    It has been over a half century since the last American troops returned home from the Vietnam War, which claimed the lives of more than 58,000 U.S. service members, including 5,822 Californians. Today, we pay tribute to the courageous men and women who served and sacrificed in one of our nation’s most challenging wars.

    During a time of great turmoil, Vietnam veterans answered our country’s call throughout more than a decade of harrowing combat – leaving many with lifelong scars, both visible and invisible. These veterans returned home to a deeply divided society and tragically did not receive the support and gratitude they deserved – a shameful reality we must never repeat.

    Let us recommit to lifting up the legacy of our Vietnam veterans and upholding our fundamental duty to honor all service members with the support, gratitude, and respect they are rightfully owed. California is proud to stand by our veterans and remains committed to ensuring they and their families receive the care and benefits they have earned many times over.

    NOW THEREFORE I, GAVIN NEWSOM, Governor of the State of California, do hereby proclaim March 30, 2025, as “Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day.”

    IN WITNESS WHEREOF I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Great Seal of the State of California to be affixed this 28th day of March 2025.

    GAVIN NEWSOM
    Governor of California

    ATTEST:
    SHIRLEY N. WEBER, Ph.D.
    Secretary of State

    Recent news

    Mar 28, 2025

    News What you need to know: The Master Plan for Developmental Services: A Community-Driven Vision was released today with recommendations for strengthening support for Californians with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families to live in the…

    Mar 28, 2025

    News What you need to know: Owner-occupied condos, multi-family units, and certain commercial properties may now eligible for the LA fire debris removal program. The deadline to submit Right of Entry Forms has been extended to April 15. LOS ANGELES – Building on…

    Mar 27, 2025

    News What you need to know: California has formally requested that the federal government add commercial structures and multi-family units to the ongoing fire debris removal efforts in Los Angeles.  LOS ANGELES – Working to expand the scope of the fast-moving wildfire…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: LIN MCU with Touch Sense Technology for Automotive Applications

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MILPITAS, Calif., March 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Lumissil Microsystems expanded its automotive MCU portfolio with the introduction of the IS32CS8976 and IS32CS8978 family of AEC-Q100 general purpose 8-bit MCU featuring an integrated LIN Controller and Physical Layer and Gen 3 touch key controller.

    For flexibility, the IS32CS8976 and IS32CS8978 integrate 64KB ECC (Error Correction Code) flash memory that can be used to customize GPIO pins and features up to 20 Gen 3 touch sensors with auto wake and sleep modes. The IS32CS8976 and IS32CS8978 also feature onboard touch sensors that are reconfigurable from self-capacitance to mutual-capacitance mode. In mutual-capacitance mode, Shield is offered as a feature which provides dust and water immunity and offers proximity detection. Further, the integrated LIN protocol handler is compliant with SAE J2602 LIN 2.0A, LIN 2.1A and LIN 2.2A standards, ensuring seamless communication and interoperability with electrical sub-systems within vehicle’s LIN networks.

    To support this claim, Lumissil submitted an MCU with LIN stack to iHR Automotive®, a third-party LIN test house for LIN 2.2 OSI Layer 2 data link layer certification. LIN conformity ensures that a LIN master can transmit 19.2kbps LDF (LIN Definition Frames) to the IS32CS8976 and IS32CS8978 and makes certain that the devices process LDF commands as a protocol handler.

    To address EMI concerns, the IS32CS8976 and IS32CS8978 incorporate oscillators with spread-spectrum modulation which effectively disperses energy at the operating frequency thereby reducing EMI-related radiated noise. To further ease the design, the IS32CS8976 and IS32CS8978 were designed to utilize an easy-to-use software calibration GUI which eliminates touch calibration issues and are designed around VS Code, a popular off-the-shelf IDE.

    The new IS32CS8976 and IS32CS8978 MCU’s enable command-control GPIO applications while simultaneously processing touch key functions. “Automotive engineers can achieve LIN command-control operation while processing touch sensor operations with the IS32CS8976 and IS32CS8978,” said Ven Shan, VP of Lumissil Marketing. “Both the IS32CS8976 and IS32CS8978 will facilitate the development of complex MCU applications by providing LIN command-control initiated by user interaction.”

    The IS32CS8976 and IS32CS8978 feature a built-in LIN Physical Layer LDO capable of 100mA and are available in 3.3V or 5V options. For cost sensitive applications, the IS32CS8976 is available in a TSSOP-24 package offering 16kB flash ECC and 10 GPIO pins while the IS32CS8978 is available in a compact wettable flank WQFN-40 package and features large 64kB flash ECC and 20 GPIO pins. Both devices are RoHS compliant and Pb-Free available with a 2,500 unit per reel MOQ.

    About Lumissil Microsystems
    Lumissil Microsystems specializes in analog/mixed-signal products for automotive, Communications, industrial, and consumer markets. Lumissil’s primary products are LED drivers for low to mid-power RGB color mixing and high-power lighting applications. Other products include audio, sensors, high-speed wire communications, optical networking, and application specific microcontrollers. Lumissil Microsystems has worldwide offices in the US, Taiwan, Japan, Singapore, mainland China, Europe, Hong Kong, India, Israel, and Korea.  

    Website: https://www.lumissil.com

    Ven Shan

    P: 408-969-4622

    vshan@lumissil.com

    Herbe Chun

    P. 408-969-5128

    hchun@lumissil.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/871f8a4f-88e9-413f-8101-b87b58d8b7eb

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Welnax BioClear Reviews [Read Before Buying]: The Real Truth About This Toenail Fungus Device!

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KOWLOON, Hong Kong, March 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Struggling with fungal infections, discolored, or brittle nails? You are not alone, as Millions of people worldwide suffer from the same annoying issue of nail fungus. Finding a solution that truly works is difficult for many people, trapping them in a cycle of routine clinic visits, topical creams and recurrent illnesses.

    Welnax BioClear Toenail Reviews
    Welnax BioClear claims to employ advanced light therapy to address the underlying cause of fungal infections without the use of harsh chemicals or prescription medications. It is intended to be used at home and offers a hassle-free substitute for pricey therapies that frequently have unintended side effects. Does it, however, fulfill its promises?

    We noticed the Welnax BioClear is trending in the USA. Many intending buyers have gone to many online forums like Reddit and TrustPilot in search of a detailed product description. We have decided to put together all you need to know to make an informed purchase in this concise Welnax BioClear Reviews.

    Many individuals are in search of a non-invasive, safer therapy for toenail fungus, and the Welnax BioClear claims to meet this standard by providing a small, user-friendly gadget that only needs a few minutes of daily use. Users report seeing noticeable improvements in as little as a few weeks, while others value the ease of caring for their nails without the need for messy lotions or trips to the podiatrist.

    Is the Welnax BioClear just another overhyped device? Does it work? We will analyze its mechanism of action, user reviews, and whether it is worth buying by people with chronic nail fungus. Find out if the Welnax BioClear is the long-term fix you’ve been looking for by reading on.

    Overview (Welnax Reviews)
    What Is Welnax BioClear?

    Welnax BioClear is a non-invasive device that uses light therapy to address toenail fungus. Welnax BioClear uses Low Light Laser Therapy (LLLT) to attack fungal infections at their source, unlike conventional therapies that depend on lotions, ointments, or oral drugs that may have negative side effects. By penetrating the nail bed with particular light wavelengths, the gadget breaks down fungal cells and encourages better nail development.

    The Welnax BioClear is a hassle-free remedy for people with recalcitrant nail fungus because it just needs to be used for a few minutes each day. It offers a straightforward, at-home substitute that blends in perfectly with any routine, unlike messy topical treatments or expensive clinical procedures.

    According to customer feedback, many users claim observable changes after only a few weeks of regular use. Verified customers, such as Sophia T. and Dylan P., have discussed their positive experiences, complimenting the gadget on its efficiency, ease of use, and capacity to repair nail health without the use of chemicals or negative side effects. Welnax BioClear provides a safe, scientifically supported answer to a long-standing toenail fungal infection.

    Working Principle of Welnax BioClear Toenail Device
    (Does Welnax BioClear Really Work?)

    Welnax BioClear fights toenail fungus at its root with the innovative Low Light Laser Therapy (LLLT). The device targets the fungal infection without damaging the surrounding skin or tissue by emitting potent light wavelengths that go deep into the nail bed.

    The fungal cells are disrupted by the light energy, which stops them from growing and eventually causes them to be eliminated. Users experience progressive improvement in nail thickness, texture, and color with regular use. Customer reviews attest to its efficacy. While complete healing usually takes a few months, users report noticeable improvements in as little as a few weeks.

    DON’T MISS OUT: Welnax BioClear is Available At A Special Price – Click Here To Order From The Official Website

    Features (Welnax BioClear Reviews)

    Below are some unique features that set Welnax BioClear apart from your other alternatives:

    • Advanced Low Light Laser Therapy (LLLT): Welnax BioClear’s application of Low Light Laser Therapy (LLLT) targets fungal infections at their source without causing damage to surrounding tissues by penetrating the nail bed using potent light wavelengths. LLLT fights fungal spores deep into the nail at the cellular level, unlike conventional therapies that primarily address surface symptoms.
    • Drug-Free and Non-Invasive Treatment: Welnax BioClear is a chemical-free, safe substitute that doesn’t include any invasive medications. Without causing pain or running the risk of negative reactions, the gadget promotes the body’s natural healing processes.
    • Quick and Notable Results: Welnax BioClear produces noticeable changes in a matter of weeks, unlike many antifungal therapies that take months to show results. Within the first month of use, users report significantly less discolouration and healthier nail growth.
    • Clinically-Tested: The technology used in the creation of Welnax BioClear has been extensively researched for its efficacy in addressing fungal infections. Light therapy has been shown in numerous scientific investigations to effectively remove fungus without the need for prescription medicines.
    • User-Friendly Design: A key feature of any at-home medical gadget is its ease of use. Welnax BioClear’s design prioritizes portability, ease of use, and lightweight design. The device is easy to use; all that is needed to start a therapy session is the push of a button. According to David S., a happy client, his wife found it easy to integrate the gadget into her daily routine: She was quite pleased with the outcome after using Welnax BioClear for a few months.
    • Painless and Gentle Therapy: Conventional fungal therapies, such as oral antifungal drugs, sometimes have adverse effects. Additionally, some topical treatments may irritate or burn your skin. Welnax BioClear offers a totally painless experience, which makes it perfect for people with sensitive skin or those who are unable to endure traditional treatments. Emily W. stated she was tired of using creams and ointments that didn’t seem to help. She was going to quit trying out different therapies until the Welnax took her by surprise. The Welnax BioClear actually works!
    • No Need for Expensive Prescription Drugs: You probably have spent a lot of money on doctor visits, prescription drugs, and recurrent antifungal cream purchases. A one-time investment for long-term nail health is offered by Welnax BioClear.
    • Strengthens Nails and Prevents Reinfection: The recurrent nature of toenail fungus, even after treatment, is one of its most annoying aspect. In addition to addressing the infection, Welnax BioClear strengthens nails, which lowers the chance of recurrence. Over time, stronger, healthier nails result from the light therapy’s promotion of circulation and cellular repair.
    • Portable and Travel-Friendly: Welnax BioClear is small and portable. Users can now maintain the health of their nails whether they are at home or on the go.

    Is Welnax BioClear Safe?

    Welnax BioClear is designed to be a non-invasive, safe therapy for brittle nails and toenail fungus. The gadget employs low-light laser therapy, a professionally proven technique renowned for its efficacy and safety, unlike conventional therapies that depend on harsh chemicals or prescription drugs. Without causing harm to the surrounding skin or tissue, the technique targets fungal diseases at their source by emitting potent light wavelengths that enter the nail bed.

    Welnax BioClear’s drug-free design has been praised by many users in the USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. Strong antifungal ingredients included in many topical therapies might irritate skin, cause dryness, or trigger allergic responses. Welnax BioClear is a mild yet efficient light-based therapy without these side effects.

    Furthermore, because it is intended for home usage, customers can effortlessly make their nails better without a doctor’s supervision. For best results, users just need to adhere to the recommended 7-minute daily use.

    Customer reviews confirm its safety even more. Verified purchasers such as John H. and Dylan P. have commended its efficacy, citing no adverse effects or discomfort. It’s easy and safe to get healthier nails with Welnax BioClear.

    Detailed Instructions on How to Use Welnax BioClear Toenail

    For the best results, use the Welnax BioClear consistently following the instructions below:

    • Clean the Affected Nail: Prior to using the therapy, wash and pat dry the fingernail or toenail. For optimal results, remove any nail polish.
    • Position the Device: Make sure the affected nail is completely covered with Welnax BioClear.
    • Activate the Light Therapy: Switch the machine on and leave it running for around seven minutes.
    • Let It Work: The light targets the fungus without causing pain or suffering by penetrating the nail bed.
    • Repeat Every Day: For reliable results, use once or twice daily. Within weeks, regular use guarantees noticeable improvement!

    DON’T MISS OUT: Welnax BioClear is Available At A Special Price – Click Here To Order From The Official Website

    Why Is Welnax BioClear So Affordable?
    (Welnax BioClear Toenail Reviews)

    Welnax BioClear’s cost-effective production, creative design, and direct-to-consumer business strategy all contribute to its affordability. Professional-grade Low Light Laser Therapy (LLLT) is now available in a small, one-time purchase device with Welnax BioClear, unlike costly laser treatments at clinics that can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars each session. For people looking for long-term relief from toenail fungus, this is a more affordable option because it does not require frequent trips to a doctor.

    The lack of ongoing expenses is another point that makes it affordable. Prescription drugs, lotions, and ointments are just a few examples of the common therapies that require ongoing expenses over several months, which can mount up over time. Welnax BioClear is a one-time purchase that customers can depend on for continuous use without incurring further costs.

    In addition, the Welnax company eliminates middlemen and costly retail markups by taking a direct-to-consumer strategy. Welnax BioClear passes up the savings to clients because it sells mostly online, eliminating the overhead expenses that come with running physical outlets.

    The efficacy of Welnax BioClear is not affected by its affordable price. According to verified USA customer reviews, it can effectively eradicate fungal infections in a few weeks, making it a reasonably priced alternative.

    Is Welnax BioClear Legit?

    Every day, new health and wellness gadgets are posted on different online platforms, leaving you wondering if the Welnax BioClear is a scam or a genuine product. However, Welnax BioClear stands out as a tested and trusted remedy for toenail fungus based on actual customer experiences and the science underlying its technology.

    The application of Low Light Laser Therapy, a non-invasive procedure that has been extensively researched for its efficacy in addressing fungal infections, is one of the main features that demonstrate its legitimacy. Welnax BioClear employs potent light wavelengths to enter the nail bed and combat fungus at its source, unlike conventional lotions and ointments that just target the surface. Without the use of harsh chemicals or costly medical appointments, this method guarantees deeper, more durable effects.

    Numerous users have expressed their satisfaction, highlighting observable enhancements in nail health after just a few weeks of regular use. For example, Sophia T., a verified customer, was skeptical at first but discovered that Welnax BioClear was a “game-changer.” After years of battling nail fungus, she saw noticeable improvements in a matter of weeks, and her nails looked healthy again in two months. In the same way, Emily W. was on the verge of giving up after trying countless unsuccessful therapies. She was astounded by how well Welnax BioClear removed her nail after four weeks of use.

    Additional testimonies support the product’s efficacy. David S. bought the gadget for his wife, who had long struggled with toenail fungus. Before using Welnax BioClear, she tried a number of drugstore remedies without success. Her nails seemed noticeably healthier in just two months, and she was thrilled with the outcome. John H. agreed, stating that the first therapy that truly worked was Welnax BioClear, which produced better nail growth in as little as one month.

    Beyond customer satisfaction, the device’s ease of use and convenience further demonstrate its legitimacy. Dylan P. valued that Welnax BioClear only needed a straightforward 7-minute daily session, free of chemicals and mess. His confidence returned when he noticed that his nails were getting healthier and that the discolored areas were progressively going away.

    Welnax BioClear Toenail Fungus Device is far from a fraud because of its tried-and-true technology, solid user reviews, and a hassle-free, secure application. It offers a practical, scientifically supported remedy for toenail fungus, enabling customers to attain healthier nails with less work.

    Welnax BioClear Reviews Consumer Reports and Complaints

    Many customers have reported getting exactly the result they wanted from the Welnax BioClear. Below are Real consumer reports from verified customers:

    • Sophia T.| Verified Buyer – “I’ve struggled with nail fungus for years, and nothing seemed to work. I was skeptical at first, but the Welnax™ BioClear has truly been a game-changer! The Low Light Laser Therapy is gentle yet effective. I noticed a visible difference in my nails after just a few weeks of consistent use. After about two months, my nails are finally looking healthy again. I no longer feel embarrassed about my feet, and I’m so glad I gave this product a try. It’s safe, simple, and most importantly, it works!”
    • John H.| Verified Buyer – “I’ve tried countless treatments for nail fungus, but Welnax™ BioClear is the first one that has actually made a difference. It’s super easy to use and doesn’t require a lot of time. Within a month, I started to see healthier nail growth. I’m really impressed with how well it works and how non-invasive it is. I would definitely recommend it to anyone who’s struggled with nail fungus and wants a simple, effective solution.”
    • Dylan P.| Verified Buyer – “I’ve been using Welnax for just over a month now, and I’m amazed at the results. My nails are noticeably healthier, and the thick, discolored spots are slowly fading. I love how easy it is to use—no mess, no chemicals, just a quick 7-minute session each day. I’m finally feeling confident about my nails again and will definitely keep using this device.”
    • Emily W.| Verified Buyer – “I was tired of using creams and ointments that didn’t seem to help. I was about to give up. But Welnax has really surprised me. I’ve been using it for about four weeks now, and my nail is almost completely cleared up. I was skeptical at first, but now I can honestly say it works. So glad I found this!’
    • David S.| Verified Buyer – “ I got this for my wife because she’d been dealing with toenail fungus for a while, and honestly, she hates going to the doctor. She’d tried everything from the drugstore, but nothing worked. After using Welnax™ BioClear for a couple of months, she was super happy with the results. Her nails actually look healthier now, and she’s really glad we gave it a shot. I’m pretty relieved too!”

    DON’T MISS OUT: Welnax BioClear is Available At A Special Price – Click Here To Order From The Official Website

    Pros Of Welnax BioClear (Welnax BioClear Toenail Reviews)

    • Welnax BioClear addresses nail fungus with laser treatment, which is less invasive and less irritating than oral antifungal drugs, which can have adverse effects.
    • For people who prefer natural cures, this is a safer alternative because it eliminates the need for prescription drugs and chemical-laden topical treatments.
    • The Welnax BioClear is made for domestic use, so it needs little work. Simply cover the damaged nail with it, click the power button, and let it take care of the rest.
    • After using the product consistently for a few weeks, many users report observable improvements in the health of their nails.
    • Welnax BioClear reaches deep into the nail bed to eradicate fungus at its source, unlike other therapies that simply address symptoms that are visible on the surface.
    • It’s ideal for folks with hectic schedules or who travel because it’s small enough to carry during trips.
    • No Mess or Residue
    • The Welnax BioClear Light therapy is a well-researched and proven treatment for fungal infections.
    • Compared to routine medical visits or continuous purchases of antifungal medications, a single purchase can ultimately result in financial savings.
    • Safe for All Ages
    • 30-Day money-back guarantee

    Cons Of Welnax BioClear Toenail Fungus (Welnax BioClear Reviews)

    • Needs Consistency and Patience: Depending on the extent of the infection, it may take a few weeks to months to see obvious effects.
    • Not an Instant Fix: It takes time for new, healthy nails to grow. Thus, this device does not offer instant aesthetic results like nail paints or temporary cosmetic remedies do.
    • Best purchased online: The Welnax BioClear is not available in Walk-in stores.

    How Much Does Welnax BioClear Cost?

    The Welnax BioClear is surprisingly affordable. The Welnax BioClear company is even running a 50% off discount currently, making it a wonderful bargain. The product is available at the following pricing:

    Welnax BioClear Where To Buy

    The official Welnax BioClear website is the best location to buy it. A genuine product with complete warranty coverage, customer service, and access to any available promotions or discounts is guaranteed when you purchase straight from the manufacturer.

    There are drawbacks associated with buying from third-party platforms, including poor customer service, lack of warranty, and counterfeit products. Always place your order on the official website to prevent problems.

    The money-back guarantee is an additional benefit of purchasing from the manufacturer. Within 30 days of purchase, you can return the product if it does not live up to your expectations. Additionally, clients can save extra when buying multiple units thanks to the official website’s bulk deals.

    Getting yours is simple. Just go to the website, choose the deal you want, and complete the payment process. The company offers safe payment methods to guarantee the security of your transaction. After completing the transaction, tracking information is supplied, and shipping is usually fast. To start down the path to healthier nails, visit the official website right now.

    CLICK HERE NOW TO BUY WELNAX BIOCLEAR DIRECTLY FROM THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE AT A DISCOUNTED PRICE

    Commonly Asked Questions (Welnax BioClear Reviews)

    We understand you might have questions regarding the Welnax BioClear, so we have provided answers to some frequently asked questions below:

    What is the duration required to observe results?

    Depending on the severity of the infection, different people experience noticeable improvements at different times. However, after four to six weeks of regular use, many individuals report observable changes. customer testimonials from confirmed purchasers such as Sophia T. and Dylan P. state that full recuperation happens after a few months, with noticeable progress after only a few weeks.

    Can my fingernails benefit from the Welnax BioClear?

    Of course! Although the gadget is promoted mostly for toenail fungus, it is equally helpful for fungal infections of the fingernails.

    Is it simple to use?

    Yes, Welnax BioClear is made to be used easily at home. Just cover the afflicted nail with the device, switch it on, and wait for the light therapy to begin; usually, only a few minutes per session. There is no need for further setup, and the procedure is totally painless.

    When is the best time to use Welnax BioClear?

    Depending on how severe the infection is, the gadget should be used once or twice a day for optimal effects. Achieving the intended result requires regular and consistent application.

    Can a single device be used by several people?

    As long as appropriate hygiene precautions are taken, several family members can share a Welnax BioClear. The Welnax is a personal device, though, so if possible, everyone should have one for personal use.

    What is the duration of each session?

    Each nail treatment takes about seven minutes. Users can carry on with their regular tasks while receiving therapy.

    Is it possible to combine Welnax BioClear with other treatments?

    Yes, Welnax BioClear can be used in conjunction with other treatments that promote nail health or antifungal lotions. Many customers, nevertheless, discover that the gadget is just enough to give them the result they want.

    Does it work on thick or discolored nails?

    Indeed, Welnax BioClear helps restore the natural look of nails in addition to getting rid of the fungal infection. After regular use, many users have experienced better nails, less discolouration, and better overall nail health.

    Will Welnax BioClear stop infections in the future?

    Indeed, regular application of Welnax BioClear not only gets rid of toenail fungus that is already there, but it also keeps them from coming back by promoting healthy nail development. Maintaining clean, dry, and clipped nails also improves defense against fungus infections in the future.

    What are the opinions of customers regarding Welnax BioClear? (Welnax BioClear Reviews Reddit)

    Welnax BioClear has received overwhelmingly excellent customer feedback. Users such as Emily W., along with John H., have talked about their experiences, emphasizing how convenient and effective the device is. Numerous reviews highlight how simple it is to use and how fast they saw improvements in the condition of their nails. Strong proof that Welnax BioClear is a reliable treatment for toenail fungus is found in the success stories of verified customers.

    Is Welnax BioClear effective for everyone?

    The majority of users report notable improvements, while individual factors such as intensity and consistency of use may affect results. After trying several other treatments with limited success, verified customers have hailed the Welnax as a game-changer in their battle against nail fungus.

    Can I wear nail paint and use Welnax BioClear at the same time?

    Before using the gadget, it is advised to remove any nail polish. Polish may function as a barrier, decreasing the efficiency of light therapy, which requires direct contact with the nail bed.

    What makes the Welnax BioClear special?

    Welnax BioClear provides a painless, practical, and drug-free alternative to messy lotions and ointments or oral drugs with adverse effects. For many users, its light therapy technology offers complete care all from the comfort of their home.

    Wrapping Up Welnax BioClear Reviews

    Welnax BioClear distinguishes itself from conventional toenail fungal treatments with its non-invasive, painless application, quick results, and Low Light Laser Therapy. Its efficacy, simplicity of use, and capacity to restore nail health without the use of harsh chemicals or expensive prescription drugs are the talk of many customer reviews on so many online platforms like Reddit and TrustPilot.

    Welnax BioClear is a drug-free, scientifically supported therapy for those with recalcitrant nail fungus that actually works, as confirmed by customers like John H., Sophia T., and Emily W., who have confirmed that this gadget is a tested and trusted way to get healthier, clearer nails.

    Welnax BioClear offers a straightforward, hands-free treatment that works with any routine, unlike messy lotions or prescription drugs that can take months to show benefits. After weeks of regular use, numerous USA-verified customers have shared their success stories, pointing to observable changes in nail health. The gadget was also made with safety in mind, so there is no chance of negative side effects even after prolonged use.

    Welnax BioClear is unique among nail fungus treatments due to its cost-effectiveness and efficiency. However, buying straight from the official website is advised to ensure authenticity and to take advantage of all manufacturer-backed warranty coverage, possible discounts, and access to authentic products.

    Welnax BioClear has given many consumers an easy-to-use and effective approach to repair healthier nails, even though individual outcomes may differ. Give the Welnax BioClear a try to see for yourself. Hurry while supplies last!

    DON’T MISS OUT: Welnax BioClear is Available At A Special Price – Click Here To Order From The Official Website

    Media Contact:
    Email: apexreviews200@gmail.com

    Disclaimer & Affiliate Disclosure
    This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition. The BioClear Toenail Fungus Device has not been evaluated by the FDA for medical claims. Individuals with severe or persistent medical concerns should consult a healthcare professional before using this device.
    Results may vary, and individual effectiveness depends on factors such as consistency of use, severity of the infection, and individual nail growth rates. The information provided in this article should not be considered professional medical advice.
    Some links within this article may be affiliate links, meaning the publisher may receive a commission if a purchase is made through these links at no extra cost to the buyer. This helps support the continued creation of valuable content and unbiased product reviews.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at: 
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/12617cd1-40f4-4656-94dd-3f6694b9860b

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2d47cfd5-4d7d-4c63-80ac-fa7eb4b55d62

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/bcb50d43-0cdf-4a6a-885b-d9c9258f9aca

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4ad8abe5-efc2-46b4-8617-a079756b8ec0

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN joins ASEAN Foreign Ministers in a Special Emergency Meeting in the aftermath of the earthquake in Myanmar

    Source: ASEAN – Association of SouthEast Asian Nations

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today joined ASEAN Foreign Ministers and the Foreign Minister of Timor-Leste in a Special Emergency Meeting to discuss ASEAN’s humanitarian assistance to Myanmar in the wake of the devastating earthquake that struck central Myanmar, on 28 March 2025. At the Meeting, held via videoconference, ASEAN reaffirmed its support of relief and recovery efforts, based on priorities identified by Myanmar, with the assistance of the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (AHA Centre).

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN joins ASEAN Foreign Ministers in a Special Emergency Meeting in the aftermath of the earthquake in Myanmar appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Statement on the Outcome of the Special Emergency Meeting of ASEAN Foreign Ministers in the Aftermath of the Earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand

    Source: ASEAN – Association of SouthEast Asian Nations

    1. A Special Emergency Meeting of the ASEAN Foreign Ministers was held on 30 March 2025 via videoconference following the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck central Myanmar on 28 March 2025, affecting the peoples of Myanmar and Thailand.

    2. The ASEAN Foreign Ministers extended their deepest sympathies and condolences to the peoples of Myanmar and Thailand who were affected by the earthquake, resulting in significant loss of life, injuries, and widespread destruction, particularly in Mandalay, Nay Pyi Taw, Sagaing, Bangkok, Chiang Mai and surrounding areas.

    To read full statement please click here.
    The post ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Statement on the Outcome of the Special Emergency Meeting of ASEAN Foreign Ministers in the Aftermath of the Earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Appointments to eighth term of New Energy Transport Fund Steering Committee

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The Environment and Ecology Bureau (EEB) today (March 31) announced the appointments to the New Energy Transport Fund (NET Fund) Steering Committee for a new two-year term starting from April 1. 
     
    The new term of the Steering Committee will continue to be chaired by the Chairman of the Council of Hong Kong Metropolitan University and Committee Member of the Chinese General Chamber of Commerce, Hong Kong, Dr Conrad Wong Tin-cheung, with members comprising experts and academics in green innovative transport technologies, representatives nominated from the transport trades, and representatives of relevant government departments.
     
    The Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Mr Tse Chin-wan, thanked the outgoing members, Mr Kent Lam Wing-keung, Mr Ling chi-keung, Professor Lo Hong-kam, Mr Ng Kwan-sing, Mr Wilson Or Chong-shing, Mr Matthew Wong Leung-pak, and Mr Yu Kwok-Tai, for their enormous contributions to the Steering Committee and expressed his deep appreciation for the invaluable advice from all members of the last term rendered to the Government on the enhancement measures under Applications for Trial, including adopting the merit-based assessment criteria and introducing subsidy schemes for electric franchised buses and electric taxis under Applications for Use.
        
    The membership of the Steering Committee in the new term is as follows:
     
    Chairman
    Dr Conrad Wong Tin-cheung
     
    Members
    Mr Chan Chi-fai*
    Professor Chau Kwok-tong*
    Miss Lai Hei-yan
    Mr Lau Kim-wan*
    Mr Jhonny Leung Huang
    Mr Davy Lui Kin-wing*
    Ms Venus Ma Chui-ki*
    Mr Mo Shing-fung*
    Mr James Wong Cheuk-on*
    Mr Rex Wong Siu-han
    Dr Daniel Yan Ting-kwan
    Representative of the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department
    Representative of the Environment and Ecology Bureau
    Representative of the Innovation and Technology Commission
    Representative of the Transport Department
     
    Secretary
    Principal Environmental Protection Officer (Air Policy), EEB

    * New members
     
    Transportation accounts for about 20 per cent of Hong Kong’s total carbon emissions. The development of green transportation is crucial to achieving the goal of carbon neutrality. The Government has put in place the Fund (previously named the Pilot Green Transport Fund) since March 2011 to subsidise and encourage the testing and wider use of green innovative transport technologies for a variety of commercial transport tools. Since its establishment, the Fund has approved a total of 298 trials, including different types of green innovative transportation technologies, such as electric commercial vehicles, electric waste collection vessels and an electric vehicle as a medical clinic, with a total funding amount of about $243 million. The NET Fund will continue to subsidise the transport trade to encourage trials of other types of new energy transport technologies apart from electric commercial vehicles, and promote the wider local application of mature new transport technology. Key projects include trial applications for hydrogen fuel cell heavy vehicles and the two subsidy schemes for electric taxis and electric franchised buses.
     
    The Steering Committee advises the Government on the operation of the Fund and the approval of funding for applications. For more information on the Fund, please visit: www.eeb.gov.hk/en/new-energy-transport-fund.html.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Applications begin for admission tickets for National Security Education Day – Fire and Ambulance Services Academy open day

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    In response to and support of the 10th National Security Education Day, the Fire Services Department (FSD) will organise an open day at the Fire and Ambulance Services Academy in Tseung Kwan O on April 13 (Sunday), with an opportunity to deepen the public’s understanding about the Constitution, the Basic Law and the Hong Kong National Security Law, as well as the FSD’s work on national security, public safety, public order and personnel training.

    The open day will feature a range of activities, including introduction of the department’s efforts in safeguarding national security, fire appliances parade, firefighting and rescue demonstrations, displays of training facilities, equipment and special vehicles, an exhibition on fire safety education, game booths, a recruitment experience area, as well as a demonstration of Fire Services working dogs. The Fire and Ambulance Services Education Centre cum Museum will also be open to the public on the day.

    The open day will be held from 9am to 5pm. A ticket is required for admission (children aged 3 or below do not need an admission ticket).

    Members of the public who are interested can apply for a maximum of four admission tickets from today (March 31) to April 2 through the latest version of the Hong Kong Fire Services Department Mobile Application, which can be downloaded from Apple App Store, Google Play and Huawei AppGallery for free. The tickets will be allocated by computer ballot, and successful applicants will receive a notification through the Application on April 3.

    Visitors are advised to use public transportation as no parking spaces will be provided at the Academy. The open day will be cancelled if Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 8 or above, or the Red/Black Rainstorm Warning Signal is still in force at 7am on the event day. Visitors should visit the FSD’s website (www.hkfsd.gov.hk) regularly for the latest information. For enquiries, please call 2411 8773.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: English rendering of PM’s speech at the launch of various development works in Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 30 MAR 2025 6:05PM by PIB Delhi

    Bharat Mata Ki Jai!

    Bharat Mata Ki Jai!

    Bharat Mata Ki Jai!

    Chhattisgarh Mahtari Ki Jai! (Hail Chhattisgarh!)

    Ratanpur Wali Mata Mahamaya Ki Jai!

    Karma Maya Ki Jai! Baba Guru Ghasidas Ki Jai!

    (Addressing the gathering in local language)

    Jai Johar from the bottom of my heart!

    Governor of Chhattisgarh, Shri Ramen Deka ji; the popular and dynamic Chief Minister of the state, Shri Vishnudeo Sai ji; my esteemed colleague in the Union Cabinet, Manohar Lal ji; the Member of Parliament from this region and Union Minister, Tokhan Sahu ji; Speaker of the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly and my dear friend, Raman Singh ji; Deputy Chief Minister, Vijay Sharma ji; Arun Sahu ji; all the ministers, MPs, and MLAs of the Chhattisgarh Government; and my brothers and sisters who have gathered here from far and wide!

    Today marks the beginning of the New Year. It is also the first day of Navratri, and this land is blessed as the abode of Mata Mahamaya. Chhattisgarh is the paternal home of Mata Kaushalya. In this sacred context, these nine days, dedicated to divine feminine energy, hold special significance for Chhattisgarh. I consider myself truly fortunate to be here on the very first day of Navratri. Only a few days ago, a postage stamp was issued in honour of Bhakta Shiromani Mata Karma, and I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all of you on this occasion.

    Friends,

    The festival of Navratri will culminate with the grand celebration of Ram Navami, and Chhattisgarh’s devotion to Lord Ram is truly remarkable. Our Ramnami Samaj (a sect) has devoted itself entirely to the divine name of Lord Ram. I extend my warmest wishes to the people of Lord Ram’s maternal land and to all of you, my friends. Jai Shri Ram!

    Friends,

    On this auspicious day, with the blessings of Mohbhatta Swayambhu Shivling Mahadev, I have been given the opportunity to further accelerate the development of Chhattisgarh. Just a short while ago, we laid the foundation stone and inaugurated projects worth more than Rs 33,700 crore. These projects encompass housing for the underprivileged, schools, roads, railways, electricity, and gas pipelines—initiatives that will significantly enhance the quality of life for the people of Chhattisgarh. They will also generate new employment opportunities for the youth. My heartfelt congratulations to all of you on these important developmental projects.

    Friends,

    In our tradition, providing shelter to someone is considered a great virtue. But what could bring greater joy than the fulfilment of a person’s dream of owning a home? Today, on this auspicious occasion of Navratri and the New Year, three lakh underprivileged families in Chhattisgarh are moving into their new homes. A short while ago, I had the opportunity to meet three beneficiaries, and I could see the immense joy on their faces. One of the women was so overwhelmed with happiness that she could hardly contain her emotions. I extend my heartfelt best wishes to all these families—three lakh families—on this new chapter of their lives. The possibility of a secure roof over the heads of these poor families has become a reality only because of all of you. I say this because you placed your trust in Modi’s guarantee. Under the previous government, the dream of a pucca house for lakhs of families in Chhattisgarh remained buried in files. We had assured you that our government would turn this dream into reality. That is why, as soon as Vishnudeo ji’s government was formed, the very first cabinet decision was to construct 18 lakh houses. Today, three lakh of those homes have been completed. I am particularly pleased that many of these houses have been built in tribal regions. Numerous families from Bastar and Surguja now have pucca houses. One can truly appreciate the significance of this for families whose generations have endured hardship in makeshift huts. For those who may not fully grasp the magnitude of this change, let me put it into perspective. Imagine you are on a long journey by train or bus, standing the entire way because you cannot find a seat. The moment you secure a seat, the relief and joy you feel are immense, aren’t they? Now, imagine families who have spent their entire lives in slums or huts. Today, as they move into pucca houses, their joy knows no bounds. When I see this transformation, it fills me with new energy and strengthens my resolve to work tirelessly for my fellow countrymen.

    Friends,

    While the government has provided assistance in constructing these homes, the decision on how each house is built rests with the beneficiaries themselves—not the government. These are the homes of your dreams, and our government does not just build houses; it strives to enrich the lives of those who live in them. Efforts have been made to equip these homes with essential amenities, including toilets, electricity, Ujjwala gas connections, and tap water. I can see that a large number of mothers and sisters are present here today. Most of these pucca houses have been registered in the names of our women. Thousands of sisters have, for the first time, had a property legally registered in their name. My dear mothers and sisters, the happiness on your faces and your heartfelt blessings are my greatest asset.

    Friends,

    When such a vast number of houses are built—lakhs of them—it leads to another significant development. Consider this: who constructs these houses? Where do the materials used in their construction come from? These materials are not sourced from Delhi or Mumbai; rather, they come from local markets. The large-scale construction of houses provides employment to our masons, skilled workers such as Rani Mistris (queen/head masons), and labourers in villages. It also benefits local small shopkeepers who supply construction materials. Additionally, those who transport these goods in trucks and other vehicles gain employment opportunities. In this way, the construction of lakhs of homes has not only provided shelter but also generated widespread employment across Chhattisgarh.

    Friends,

    The BJP government is steadfastly fulfilling every promise made to the people of Chhattisgarh. The Chief Minister just mentioned that elections for local self-governance institutions were recently held—the three-tier elections—and the overwhelming support you have shown is truly commendable. As I stand before you today, I take this opportunity to express my heartfelt gratitude for your trust and blessings.

    Friends,

    A large number of beneficiaries of various government schemes have gathered here today. You have personally witnessed how swiftly our government is honouring its commitments. We have fulfilled our promise to the women of Chhattisgarh. Paddy farmers have received the bonuses due for two years, and paddy has been procured at an increased Minimum Support Price (MSP). As a result, lakhs of farming families have collectively received thousands of crores of rupees. Under the previous Congress government, recruitment examinations were plagued by widespread corruption. The BJP government has ordered a thorough investigation into these examination scams. Moreover, we are now ensuring that recruitment exams are conducted with complete transparency. These honest efforts have strengthened public confidence in the BJP. Following the Assembly and Lok Sabha elections, the BJP has now triumphed in the civic elections as well, with its flag flying high across Chhattisgarh. The people of this state are wholeheartedly supporting the BJP government’s vision and initiatives.

    Friends,

    Chhattisgarh has now completed 25 years as a state, marking its silver jubilee year. Coincidentally, this year also commemorates the centenary of Atal Ji. In honour of his legacy, the Chhattisgarh government is celebrating 2025 as Atal Nirman Varsh. Our commitment is clear—we have built it, and we will make it even better. Every infrastructure project inaugurated or initiated today is a testament to this resolution.

    Friends,

    Chhattisgarh was created as a separate state to ensure that the benefits of development reached its people. However, under Congress rule, development remained stagnant, and wherever work was undertaken, corruption followed. The Congress party has never truly cared for your well-being. But we have. We have prioritised your lives, your comfort, and your children’s future. Our government is taking development initiatives to every village in Chhattisgarh. I have noticed a young girl here holding up a painting for quite some time. I request the security personnel to take note of her name and address. Daughter, I will send you a letter. Someone please collect it and ensure it reaches me. Thank you, dear child. Thank you very much. Today, you can see the transformation taking place—good roads are now reaching even the most remote tribal areas. For the first time, trains are connecting new regions, and I have just flagged off a new service here. Electricity is reaching these places for the first time, piped water supply is becoming a reality, and mobile towers are being installed in areas that never had connectivity before. New schools, colleges, and hospitals are being built. Chhattisgarh’s landscape is changing, and with it, its destiny is being rewritten.

    Friends,

    Chhattisgarh has now joined the ranks of states where 100% of the railway network operates on electricity—a remarkable achievement. Currently, railway projects worth approximately Rs 40,000 crore are underway in Chhattisgarh. Additionally, this year’s budget has allocated Rs 7,000 crore specifically for the state’s railway infrastructure. These developments will significantly enhance rail connectivity across various regions of Chhattisgarh while also improving links with neighbouring states.

    Friends,

    Along with financial resources, good intentions are essential for development. If there is dishonesty in both thought and action—like we witnessed under Congress rule—then even the largest treasury will be drained. We have seen this happen during Congress’s tenure, where corruption and mismanagement prevented development from reaching tribal areas. Take coal as an example—Chhattisgarh is rich in coal reserves, yet the state struggled to get enough electricity to meet its needs. Under Congress rule, the power sector remained neglected, and little effort was made to develop power plants. In contrast, our government is now actively setting up new power plants to ensure a reliable energy supply.

    Friends,

    We are also making significant efforts to generate electricity from solar energy. Let me introduce you to a remarkable scheme initiated by Modi—a scheme that will eliminate your electricity bill and even allow you to earn money by generating electricity at home. This initiative is called the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana. Under this scheme, our government is providing financial assistance of Rs 70,000–80,000 per household for installing solar panels. Here in Chhattisgarh, more than two lakh families have already registered for this scheme. I encourage you all to join as well and reap its benefits.

    Friends,

    Another example of good governance and vision is the development of gas pipelines. Chhattisgarh, being a landlocked state, is far from the sea, making gas supply a significant challenge. The previous government failed to invest adequately in gas infrastructure, leaving the state dependent on costly transportation methods. We are now addressing this issue head-on. Our government is actively laying gas pipelines in Chhattisgarh, reducing the reliance on transporting petroleum products by trucks. This will lead to lower prices for fuel and energy-related products. Additionally, the introduction of gas pipelines will enable vehicles to run on CNG, providing a cleaner and more affordable alternative. Moreover, this initiative will bring piped cooking gas directly to homes. Just as water flows to the kitchen through pipes, gas will now be supplied in the same way. We are currently working towards connecting over two lakh homes with direct piped gas supply. Beyond household benefits, the availability of gas will pave the way for new industries in Chhattisgarh. This, in turn, will create thousands of new job opportunities.

    Friends,

    In past decades, Congress’s policies fuelled the spread of Naxalism across several states, including Chhattisgarh. Wherever there was scarcity and lack of development, Naxalism took root and flourished. But what did the party that ruled for 60 years do? Instead of addressing the challenges, it simply declared such districts as backward and turned away from its responsibilities. As a result, entire generations of our youth were lost. Many mothers had to endure the heart-wrenching loss of their sons, and countless sisters were left grieving for their brothers.

    Friends,

    The indifference shown by those past governments only aggravated the crisis. You have witnessed first-hand how some of the most underprivileged tribal families were left struggling in various districts of Chhattisgarh. The Congress government never cared for them. We did. We ensured that poor tribal families had proper sanitation by launching the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan. We prioritised their healthcare needs by introducing Ayushman Bharat Yojana, providing free treatment of up to Rs 5 lakh. We made essential medicines affordable through PM Jan Aushadhi Kendras, where medicines are available at an 80% discount.

    Friends,

    Those who claim to be the champions of social justice were the very ones who ignored the tribal community for decades. This is why I say: Modi stands for those whom no one else cares for. We are actively working towards the upliftment of the tribal society through special initiatives. One such programme is the Dharti Aaba Janjati Utkarsh Abhiyan, under which Rs 80,000 crore is being invested in tribal development. This initiative is benefiting nearly 7,000 tribal villages in Chhattisgarh alone. Additionally, we recognise that within the tribal community, there exist extremely backward groups that need special attention. For the first time ever, our government has introduced the PM Janman Yojana, specifically designed for these communities. Under this scheme, development work is underway in more than 2,000 settlements across 18 districts of Chhattisgarh. Nationwide, 5,000 kilometres of roads have been approved in tribal settlements—half of these, approximately 2,500 kilometres, will be constructed in Chhattisgarh itself under the PM Janman Yojana. Moreover, many families present here today have received pucca houses through this scheme. This is the transformation we are bringing—development that reaches every doorstep.

    Friends,

    Today, under the double-engine government, Chhattisgarh is witnessing rapid transformation. When a health centre in Sukma district receives a national quality certificate, it instils a sense of confidence. When a health centre in Dantewada resumes operations after years of inactivity, it brings renewed optimism. These efforts are paving the way for a new era of lasting peace in Naxal-affected areas. In December’s Mann Ki Baat broadcast, I spoke about the Bastar Olympics. You may have heard how thousands of young people enthusiastically took part in the event. Their participation is clear proof of the positive change unfolding in Chhattisgarh.

    Friends,

    I can see a bright future for the youth of Chhattisgarh. The state’s implementation of the New Education Policy is commendable. Across the country, more than 12,000 modern PM Shri Schools have been established, with approximately 350 located in Chhattisgarh. These institutions will serve as model schools, elevating the entire education system of the state. Additionally, Eklavya Model Schools are already making remarkable progress in Chhattisgarh. Many schools in Naxal-affected areas have also been reopened, providing children with new opportunities for learning. Today, the Vidya Samiksha Kendra has also been launched in Chhattisgarh, marking another significant milestone in the state’s education sector. This initiative will enhance the quality of education, enabling real-time assistance for both teachers and students in classrooms.

    Friends,

    We have honoured yet another promise made to you. Under the new National Education Policy, medical and engineering studies have now commenced

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Police seeking witnesses to fatal crash in CBD

    Source: New South Wales – News

    Police have released images of two cars seen in the CBD just after a pedestrian died in a crash on Wakefield Street.

    Police and emergency services were called to the intersection of Wakefield Street and Frome Street, Adelaide about 9.30pm on Sunday 30 March by reports of a collision.

    It is believed the pedestrian was crossing Wakefield Street when he was struck by a Nissan four-wheel drive, then by a second vehicle, a Mazda station wagon.

    Sadly, the 65-year-old Adelaide man died at the scene.

    The driver of the Nissan, a 61-year-old Mitchell Park man, was arrested by Major Crash officers and charged with cause death by careless driving.  He was bailed to appear in the Adelaide Magistrates Court on 18 June.

    The driver of the Mazda, a 20-year-old Hillcrest man, is assisting police with their enquiries.

    Both vehicles were towed from the scene for forensic examination.

    Major Crash Investigation Section has released two images of two separate cars following an investigation.

    Following the initial collision between the Nissan utility and the pedestrian a dark sedan with a spoiler on the rear and a white SUV were seen in CCTV footage to pass through the collision scene in a westerly direction.

    These two vehicles are not believed to be involved in the collision (images below).

    Police are appealing for the driver of both vehicles or any other witnesses to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

    Please reference 25-034M.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: FSD open day scheduled for Apr 13

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    In support of National Security Education Day, the Fire Services Department will hold an open day at the Fire & Ambulance Services Academy in Tseung Kwan O on April 13. Citizens can apply for admission tickets from today until Wednesday.

    Activities will include an introduction to the department’s efforts in safeguarding national security, a fire appliances parade, firefighting and rescue demonstrations, and displays of training facilities, equipment and special vehicles.

    The event will also feature an exhibition on fire safety education, game booths, a recruitment area, and a demonstration involving Fire Services working dogs.

    The Fire & Ambulance Services Education Centre & Museum will also be open to the public on the day.

    The open day will be held from 9am to 5pm. People can apply for a maximum of four admission tickets by using the latest version of the Fire Services Department mobile application, which can be downloaded from the Apple App Store, Google Play or Huawei AppGallery for free.

    Tickets will be allocated by computer ballot and successful applicants will receive a notification through the mobile app this Thursday. Children aged three or below do not require a ticket.

    Call 2411 8773 for enquiries.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Text of the Vice–President’s address at valedictory session of National Conference on Environment- 2025 at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi (Excerpts)

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 30 MAR 2025 6:34PM by PIB Delhi

    Good evening, all of you. Frankly, I’m not used to such kind of order.

    I’m more used to disorder in the house. And secondly, when I sit in the chair, as Chairman Rajya Sabha, on my right is the Government, on the left is the Opposition. Today there’s a strange combination, excellence, sublimity, of bar and bench on my right side.

    One regret that I have, of parting with the jealous mistress, the legal profession, by becoming Governor-State of West Bengal and now the Vice-President, I did not have the occasion to appear before one of the finest judges of this country, Justice P. S. Narsimha. And similarly, I had no occasion to cross swords with another legal luminary, Shri Tushar Mehta. A source of inspiration and motivation for me.

    Because rarely there is a combination where dedication, excellence, commitment, and nationalism converge. Very soothing experience. Justice P. S. Narsimha, Judge Supreme Court of India, Justice Prakash Shrivastava, Chairperson of the National Green Tribunal, I know him while he was Chief Justice, Calcutta High Court, while I was in Kolkata, because the High Court continues to be known as Calcutta High Court, exemplified highest judicial decorum and standards, and was not eyesore to anyone, fructifying, game-changing decisions.

    A chairman of the National Green Tribunal, you know what he is. But I must share one thing, that is common between us. We both fear our wives. Pradeepti is here, so is Dr. Sudesh. They are our strength. Shri Tushar Mehta Ji has equal challenge in the family as we have. No issue on that. Shri Thirumal Kumar, an IAS officer, I have admired him for a long time, he knows it. So he was a little astounded that I still recollect that.

    Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, nothing has happened to me by virtue of these constitutional offices. I am what I am. The only loss that I have is, a legal profession is known as a jealous mistress. I quoted the jealous mistress. When I joined the bar, the year I was married. So along with my wife, there was a jealous mistress.

    But it was very thoughtful of the President of India, Ramnath Kovind Ji. He chose 20th of July 2019, that I forsake the jealous mistress, because that happened to be the birthday of my wife. We have in the audience distinguished Chief Justices, acting Chief Justices, judges, lawyers, environmentalists, boys and girls, but I must recognise the presence of some.

    Justice Vishwanath, some other, I have one thing in common with him. We both belong to the Daughters Club. He has a daughter, and so do we have. And had the satisfaction of knowing him for long. Justice Ashutosh Kumar, Acting Chief Justice, Patna High Court, I’m sure I’ll be making some mistakes. So I leave it at that. My greetings to all of you.

    When I reflected on 20th of July, my wife’s birthday, it doesn’t end there. 20th of July, Neil Armstrong in 1969, landed on the moon for the first time. But my wife was born 12 years before. But what Neil Armstrong said is extremely relevant today for what we are discussing and deliberating. Neil Armstrong reflected, I quote him, “there’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.”

    That is what we need to deal with the issue. Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, it’s a privilege to address the valedictory session of this National Conference on Environment. Grateful to Chairman Prakash Shrivastava for securing convergence of over 1,200 environmental experts, judicial and administrative minds, as also most vital stakeholders, young boys and girls.

    They are supremely interested, both in democracy and environment. They will go a long way. I am confident the deliberations over the last two days must have been very fruitful and must have generated a lot of hope and possibility.

    Our planet faces, in the shape of climate change, not an ordinary challenge. It’s an existential challenge. And the nature of the existential challenge is unknown to history ever before.

    The situation is critical and cliffhanging and far too long, engaging the attention of everyone, governments and people all over the globe. The solution to this burning issue is complexed by the belief that someone else will fix it. This is not to be true. We’ll have to do it on our own. There is now live realisation of this menace. It has to be moderated to begin with and solved by all of us in tenement togetherness.

    Resolute addressing of the problem is paramount. And neither we have the time nor we have another planet to cohabit. This problem of huge dimensions has to be fixed by all individuals acting individually, organisations and the governments with immediate, urgent, concerted and sustained effort.

    Let me share with the distinguished audience. Everyone is positioned to make his or her contribution. And the contribution when converges in totality will be result-orientated. We need to realise we are trustees of everything offered by Mother Earth and there is divine ordainment that we must pass on to the future generations all this in good shape writing on the wall. Have we done it? The answer comes from within. Certainly not.

    The present scenario is alarming, daunting and far distanced from what it should have been. In such a scenario an institution like the National Green Tribunal in the largest democracy habitat for one-sixth of humanity is playing vital and significant role catalysing scenarios for containment and searching for solutions. I join Justice P.S. Narsimha in complimenting Justice Shrivastava for taking this initiative and it is not a day too soon.

    India happens to be the third country as was reflected not by this number as such by Shri Tushar Mehta that we have taken a number of initiatives, innovative steps, affirmative government policies in the country but we were amongst the first three in the world to have an institution and regulator like the National Green Tribunal. Distinguished audience not many countries in the world can claim to have civilisational depth which we as Bharat have thousands of years of civilisational ethos. Long before sustainability became a global buzzword much long before centuries before it became a global buzzword India lived it for centuries where every banyan tree was a temple, every river a goddess and waste an unknown concept in a civilisation that worshipped circularity.

    Our Vedic literature is gold mine for nurturing of mother earth and propagating harmony between men and nature. From Ayurveda’s living harmony to Gandhi’s world has enough for need not for greed. The wise sage who transformed democratic landscape of the world bringing about change through non-violence he said the world has everything, earth has everything for need but not for greed.

    India’s DNA carries the only vaccine against ecological collapse, conspicuous consumption. We only have to read what is there in our gold mine. Environmental depredation if we see the cause of it is brought about on the planet only by one species amongst living beings.

    We do it, no one else does it. Distinguished audience we have to be aware the planet is not exclusive to us we are not its owners. Flora and fauna must flourish and blossom alongside and so must all other living beings.

    In such a scenario men will have to learn to live in harmony with nature and other living beings. Are we doing it? No. Every technological development increasing human prowess is used to captivate and make others’ lives vulnerable to other living beings.

    There will have to be individual focus on optimal utilisation of resources of nature. This has to be our habit. Our fiscal power and our fiscal capacity cannot determine the use of natural resources.

    The consumption has to be optimal. We are paying heavy price already for reckless exploitation of these resources and thoughtless consumption conspicuous and lacking empathy. Distinguished audience protecting earth for future generations, an urgent need calls for sustainable practices that recognise nature’s inherent worth while reconciling conservation with development needs. It’s a delicate balance and NGT is required to navigate the fine print of it.

    Human activities particularly climate change and water management now influence seismic events. Studies have revealed earthquakes we all know are normally because of tectonic processes but then the way we conserve waters, build dams and get them emptied is a cause of profound impact on geological situations and therefore there is a global need to evolve and believe in environmental ethics. This underscores human’s moral obligations to protect and preserve the environment.

    This is the interconnection of all living beings. I can assure you once we lose it we know the worth of it. Let us realise the worth before we lose it forever.

    Both ecological extension and conservation ethics advocate harmonious human-nature relationships and are so easy to bring about. It doesn’t call for anything but a positive mindset towards life, we have to focus on environmental preservation and prudent resource stewardship for generational sustainability. Friends, global environmental challenges necessitate cross-border cooperation and innovative strategies that simultaneously advance ecological sustainability and economic development.

    No individual, no group, no nation can by itself resolve this issue. It has to be done by one and all on the planet. There will have to be convergence.

    I am so glad that a step has been taken by the chairman NGT Mr. Shrivastava by having this conference. More of it and it’s kind of needed. Environmental security must inform nuclear policy also.

    We all know weapon systems have huge ecological impact from manufacturing through potential deployment and pose existential risk that undermines their perpetrated security benefits. Something that is for security will result in our defacement from the planet. There has to be a thought process.

    Developed nations must transcend the political boundaries, environmental thinking adopting models where planetary health becomes foundational to human prosperity and well-being. They cannot isolate themselves. Okay, we are doing fine. We have means, technological means to generate a healthy ecosystem. It can last for some years but not forever. They will have to be enveloped into the menace if they do not join the rest of the global community.

    Friends, just look around. Proliferation of air purifiers, masks, water filters, generators usually witnessed in the last few decades. They represent the grievous symptoms of environmental degradation rather than solutions.

    Authentic progress requires eliminating pollution sources. We have to eliminate them because they are created by us. They are man-made.

    Transforming our relationship with nature and exploitation to stewardship. The Bhopal gas tragedy relations are still unlearned. The Union carbide leakage of 1984. I think if I’m not wrong it was in 2015 that Justice Shrivastava, the judge of the Madhya Pradesh High Court dealt with as a commissioner what compensation could be given. It was mega environmental negligence. Even after four decades families suffered generation after generation genetic disorders and groundwater contamination.

    30 years after it as I reflected Justice Shrivastava dealt with an issue for welfare of the victims. Just imagine how pathetic was the lack of awareness. We did not have an institution like NGT.

    We did not have a regulatory regime that could address the issue. Things would have been very different if there had been a regulatory regime of the current level then. Distinguished audience there is a growing concern that environmental justice often follows a troubling pattern of 4Ds delay, deny, dispose, dissolve.

    This cycle must be broken. I am happy to note NGT is catalysing sensitisation on all fronts on this aspect. And I am sure intervention to the NGT exercise will be scarce.

    It is an expert body. I am not for a moment questioning anybody’s authority or power, sir. But then when expert bodies function and have the facility of getting expertise from people who are really knowledgeable, stalling their action delays environmental protection.

    It is soothing to note that the National Green Tribunal shifts from delay to decisiveness from denial to accountability from mere disposal to true restoration and from dissolution to sustainable resolution is increasingly getting respect of the people, institutions corporate world and workers. Our environmental jurisprudence in the country has to grow by looking into our reservoir I said, gold mine reflected in our Vedic literature. Fortunately, trends are emerging that now transcend remediation to embracing ecological preservation as a fundamental mandate.

    Why should we get into remediation, repair? Let us keep an eagle’s eye. Let us keep it in deep focus. Why should there be no preservation? I admire and compliment the Chairman NGT. He has made no efforts to secure scientific expertise to assist and this is turning out to be a cutting edge to NGT’s adjudicatory functions helping it play a visionary role in environmental governance. The tribunal’s environmental jurisprudence is progressively integrating emerging scientific understanding with established legal doctrines and I can share it with you. Having had modest global exposure, the tribunal’s judgments are looked at with great deference globally.

    Invoking the power to interpret the Constitution, the Supreme Court has, and I would say earliest in the world, given dimensions to Article 21, that healthy environment and right to clean air are integrated inalienable facets of Article 21. Friends, despite the synergy between our constitutional values and cultural ethos, there is now an urgent need to deal with citizenry neglect that is widely evident. I reflect on occasions when no Indian who is abroad throws a banana skin out of a running vehicle. No one does it. Why do we have negligence on our holy land? Citizens must be sensitised and made aware. Such kinds of conferences as indicated by Justice Narasimha play a pivotal role because they get media attention and traction. Steps have been taken by the government, and I can share many steps that are game-changing. Toilet in the house, gas connection in the house. Just imagine making that kind of bulbs, making solar power available. Just imagine. Just a decade ago, our solar power capacity was in single-digit gigawatts. It is now beyond 100 gigawatts. We have an international solar alliance here. During G20, India took the initiative for biofuels.

    So world is changing, but India is changing fastest in the last 10 years, both in economy and infrastructure. But we need to do more because we have to lead on the front foot for the entire world and humanity. Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.

    At an individual level, we have to be constantly mindful of the environment as guided by one of the पंच प्राण, पर्यावरण संरक्षण यह हमारा धर्म है, यह हमारा कर्म होना चाहिए, यह हमारा दैनिक कर्म होना चाहिए, इसको करने से हम खुद को लाभ देते हैं, देश को देते हैं, दुनिया को देते हैं।

    We should proactively try to reduce our carbon footprint. And mind you, India is the only country where the Prime Minister could declare that not only we abide by the Paris Declaration, but we will meet the target aead other nations and the world has applauded us. The way I look, Chairman Shrivastava, to NGT and for nurturing G for green and T for tomorrow. NGT for me is nurturing green for tomorrow.

    Friends, this is not just wordplay. It is the vision of an institution that connects law, science, and ethics to transform our relationship with nature. Let us draw from our Vedic roots, wield cutting edge tools, and uphold climate justice with unwavering resolve.

    Shanti path from Yajurveda I’ll conclude with that. Let peace prevail in the sky and space. Let peace reign and radiate in earth, in water, and in all plants. Let peace prevail everywhere.

    द्यौः शान्तिः अन्तरिक्षं शान्तिः पृथ्वी शान्तिः वनस्पतयः शान्तिः। ॐ शान्तिः शान्तिः शान्तिः॥

    The earth is not for us to conquer. It is for us to cherish and pass on to posterity to future generations. The NGT which it’s blend of judicial mind and moral clarity is uniquely positioned to lead the charge under the guidance of Justice Prakash Shrivastava. I am grateful for this opportunity. Thank you everyone for your patience.

    ****

    JK/RC/SM

     

    (Release ID: 2116858) Visitor Counter : 125

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi lays foundation stone, inaugurates development works in Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh worth over ₹33,700 crore

    Source: Government of India

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi lays foundation stone, inaugurates development works in Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh worth over ₹33,700 crore

    Today, on the auspicious day of Navratri, on the New Year, three lakh poor families of Chhattisgarh are entering their new houses: PM

    Government is concerned about providing health facilities and medical treatment for poor tribals: PM

    Government is running a special campaign for the development of tribal society: PM

    Posted On: 30 MAR 2025 6:17PM by PIB Delhi

    In line with his commitment to enhance infrastructure development and sustainable livelihood, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone, initiated commencement of work and dedicated to the nation multiple development projects worth over Rs 33,700 crore in Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh today. Marking the auspicious beginning of the New Year today and the first day of Navratri, he emphasized the significance of Chhattisgarh as the land of Mata Mahamaya and the maternal home of Mata Kaushalya. He highlighted the special importance of these nine days dedicated to feminine divinity for the state. He expressed his privilege to be in Chhattisgarh on the first day of Navratri and congratulated everyone on the recent issuance of a postal stamp in honor of Bhakt Shiromani Mata Karma. He further remarked that the Navratri festival will conclude with the celebration of Ram Navami, highlighting the unique devotion to Lord Ram in Chhattisgarh, particularly the extraordinary dedication of the Ramnami Samaj, which has devoted their entire being to the name of Lord Ram. He extended his heartfelt wishes to the people of Chhattisgarh, referring to them as the maternal family of Lord Ram.

    With the blessings of Mohbhatta Swayambhu Shivling Mahadev on this auspicious occasion, Shri Modi highlighted the opportunity to accelerate development in Chhattisgarh. He noted the inauguration and foundation laying of projects worth over ₹33,700 crore, which include housing for the poor, schools, roads, railways, electricity, and gas pipelines. He stressed that these projects are aimed at enhancing convenience for Chhattisgarh’s citizens and creating new employment opportunities. He extended his congratulations to all for the progress achieved through these development initiatives.

    Emphasizing the cultural significance of providing shelter, calling it a great virtue, the Prime Minister said that it was an unparalleled joy of fulfilling someone’s dream of owning a home. On the auspicious occasion of Navratri and the New Year, he highlighted that three lakh poor families in Chhattisgarh are entering their new homes. He extended his heartfelt wishes to these families for a new beginning. He credited the realization of these homes to the trust placed in his leadership, noting that the dream of permanent housing for lakhs of families in Chhattisgarh was previously lost in bureaucratic files. He recalled the Government’s commitment to fulfilling this dream. He remarked that under Shri Vishnu Deo’s leadership, the first Cabinet decision was to construct 18 lakh houses, of which three lakh have been completed. He expressed happiness that many of these homes are in tribal areas, benefiting families in Bastar and Surguja, acknowledging the transformative impact of these homes for families who have endured generations of hardship in makeshift shelters, calling it a significant gift.

    “While the Government provided assistance in building these homes, the beneficiaries themselves decided how their dream homes would be designed”, said Shri Modi, emphasising that these homes are not just four walls but a transformation of lives. He highlighted the efforts to equip these homes with essential facilities such as toilets, electricity, Ujjwala gas connections, and piped water. He noted the significant presence of women at the event and remarked that most of these homes are owned by women. He acknowledged the milestone achieved by thousands of women who, for the first time, have property registered in their names. He expressed his gratitude for the joy and blessings reflected on the faces of these women, calling it his greatest asset.

    Highlighting the broader impact of constructing lakhs of homes which not only created the employment opportunities for local artisans, masons, and laborers in villages, the Prime Minister said that the materials used for these homes are sourced locally, benefiting small shopkeepers and transport operators. He noted that these housing projects have generated significant employment in Chhattisgarh, contributing to the livelihoods of many.

    Underlining that their Government is fulfilling every promise made to the people of Chhattisgarh, Shri Modi highlighted the presence of a large number of beneficiaries from various schemes, emphasizing the swift implementation of government guarantees. He noted that the promises made to the women of Chhattisgarh have been honored, including the disbursement of two years’ pending bonuses to paddy farmers and the procurement of paddy at increased MSP rates. These measures have provided thousands of crores of rupees to millions of farming families. The Prime Minister criticized the previous Government for recruitment exam scams and highlighted their Government’s transparent investigations and fair conduct of examinations. He emphasized that these honest efforts have strengthened public trust with growing support, evident from its victories in Assembly, Lok Sabha, and now municipal elections in Chhattisgarh. He expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support of the people for their Government’s initiatives.

    Shri Modi noted that this year was 25th anniversary of Chhattisgarh’s statehood, celebrating it as the state’s Silver Jubilee Year was coinciding as this year also marked the birth centenary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee. He said that the Chhattisgarh Government is observing 2025 as “Atal Nirman Varsh” and reaffirmed the commitment, “We built it, and we will nurture it.” He emphasized that the infrastructure projects inaugurated and launched today are part of this resolution. 

    Mentioning that Chhattisgarh had to be formed as a separate state because the benefits of development were not reaching the region, the PM criticized the previous Government for its failure to deliver development and for corruption in the projects that were undertaken. He underscored that their Government has prioritized the well-being of the people, focusing on improving their lives, facilities, and opportunities for their children. He highlighted the efforts to bring development schemes to every village in Chhattisgarh.

    Underlining the progress in remote tribal areas, where quality roads are now reaching for the first time, Shri Modi mentioned the introduction of train services to several regions, including the flagging off of a new train earlier in the event. He also highlighted the arrival of electricity, piped water, and mobile towers in previously underserved areas. He remarked on the construction of new schools, colleges, and hospitals, emphasizing that these initiatives are transforming the landscape of Chhattisgarh. 

    Highlighting Chhattisgarh’s achievement of becoming one of the states with a fully electrified rail network, calling it a significant milestone, the Prime Minister noted that approximately ₹40,000 crore worth of rail projects are currently underway in the state, with ₹7,000 crore allocated in this year’s budget to improve rail connectivity in various regions and neighboring states. Stressing that development requires both budgetary support and honest intentions, Shri Modi criticized the previous Government for its corruption and inefficiency, which hindered progress in tribal areas. He cited the example of coal, noting that despite Chhattisgarh’s abundant reserves, the state faced electricity shortages due to the neglect of power plants by previous dispensations. He remarked that under their Government, new power plants are being established to address these issues and ensure reliable electricity for the state.

    Highlighting the Government’s focus on solar energy and introduction of the ‘PM Suryagarh Muft Bijli Scheme,’ which aims to eliminate electricity bills and enable households to generate income by producing electricity, the Prime Minister noted that the Government is providing ₹78,000 assistance per household for installing solar panels. He added  that over two lakh families in Chhattisgarh have already registered for the scheme and encouraged others to join for significant benefits.

    Stressing on the Government’s efforts to address the challenge of delivering gas pipelines to Chhattisgarh, a landlocked state, Shri Modi criticized the previous Government for neglecting necessary investments in gas infrastructure and highlighted the ongoing work to lay gas pipelines in the region. He noted that these pipelines will reduce dependency on truck transportation for petroleum products, lower costs for consumers, and enable the use of CNG vehicles. He remarked that households will benefit from piped cooking gas, with a target of reaching over two lakh homes. He also emphasized that the availability of gas will facilitate the establishment of new industries in Chhattisgarh, creating significant employment opportunities.

    Criticizing the previous dispensation’s policies over the decades, stating that they contributed to the rise of Naxalism in Chhattisgarh and other states, the Prime Minister said that Naxalism thrived in areas lacking development and resources, and instead of addressing these issues, such districts were declared as backward, shirking their responsibility. He highlighted the neglect faced by the most underprivileged tribal families in many districts of Chhattisgarh under previous Government’s rule. In contrast, he emphasized their Government’s efforts to address the needs of poor tribal communities. He noted the initiatives undertaken, such as the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan to provide toilets, the Ayushman Bharat scheme offering free treatment up to ₹5 lakh, and the establishment of PM Jan Aushadhi Kendras, which provide medicines at an 80% discount.

    The Prime Minister criticized those who falsely claim to champion social justice while neglecting the tribal community. He emphasized his Government’s commitment to the development of tribal societies, highlighting the launch of the “Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Utkarsh Abhiyan,” under which approximately ₹80,000 crore is being invested in tribal areas, benefiting nearly 7,000 tribal villages in Chhattisgarh. Noting the unique challenges faced by particularly vulnerable tribal groups, Shri Modi mentioned the introduction of the “PM Janman Yojana,” the first initiative of its kind for these communities. He remarked that under this scheme, over 2,000 settlements in 18 districts of Chhattisgarh are being developed. He highlighted the approval of 5,000 kilometers of roads for tribal settlements across the country, with nearly half—2,500 kilometers—being constructed in Chhattisgarh under the PM Janman Yojana. He also noted that many beneficiaries have received permanent homes under this initiative.

    Highlighting the rapid transformation of Chhattisgarh under the Union and State governments, Shri Modi remarked on the renewed confidence brought by achievements such as Sukma district’s health center receiving a national quality certificate and the reopening of a health center in Dantewada after several years. He emphasized that these efforts are ushering in a new era of lasting peace in Naxal-affected areas. Referring to the Bastar Olympics, discussed during his “Mann Ki Baat” program in December 2024, as evidence of the positive changes in Chhattisgarh, he noted the enthusiastic participation of thousands of youth in the event, reflecting the state’s progress. He expressed optimism about the bright future of Chhattisgarh’s youth and praised the state’s effective implementation of the New Education Policy. He highlighted the establishment of over 12,000 modern PM Shri Schools across the country, including approximately 350 in Chhattisgarh, which will serve as models for other schools and elevate the state’s education system.

    The Prime Minister acknowledged the excellent work being done by Eklavya Model Schools in Chhattisgarh and the reopening of schools in Naxal-affected areas. He also inaugurated the Vidya Samiksha Kendra in the state, calling it a significant step for the nation’s education system. He emphasized that this initiative will enhance the quality of education, providing real-time support to teachers and students in classrooms.

    Mentioning the fulfillment of another promise under the New National Education Policy, which enables medical and engineering studies

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Update: Vehicle sought in relation to investigation, Miramar

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Attributable to Detective Inspector Nick Pritchard:

    Police investigating a homicide and aggravated burglary in Miramar are appealing for information from the public regarding a vehicle seen in the area, and items of clothing located near the property that was burgled.

    At around 2am on Monday 17 March, Police were called to a Darlington Road address after the occupants located an intruder inside their home. A 28-year-old man has been arrested and charged with aggravated burglary in relation to this incident.

    Then at around 2.20am on Monday 17 March 63-year-old Abdul Nabizadah was located with serious head injuries at the intersection of Camperdown Road and Totara Road. Sadly, Mr Nabizadah subsequently died in hospital and a homicide investigation was launched.

    A large Police team is working to establish whether the incidents are connected and we are continuing to appeal for any information.

    We wish to speak to the driver of a Grey or Silver Mazda Atenza / Mazda 6, 2006 model that was seen driving through Darlington Rd / Camperdown Rd intersection several times between 11.50pm Sunday 16 March and 2.17am Monday 17 March. The CCTV image shows the vehicle and the reference image shows the make and model of the vehicle sought.

    We hope that the driver of this car will be able to assist Police with enquiries. If this was you or if you recognise this vehicle and know who the driver is, please contact Police.

    We are also interested in information about two items of clothing left at the Darlington Road burglary scene. We believe that both items were left by the burglar and, while a person has already been charged in relation to the burglary, we continue to seek any information about the clothing items.

    The first item is a white baseball hat with red swastika on the front.

    The second item is a pair of H & H size 8 woman’s gumboots. It is possible that these had been stolen from a nearby residence, maybe a back door, insecure shed or porch by the alleged burglar. Police ask that anyone who believes that these may be their gumboots to please contact us.

    We wish to thank the community for their help so far, and we note that community assistance helped identify the man running in Darlington Rd who was the subject of a previous appeal.

    We continue to appeal for information about a man seen walking down Camperdown Road from Totara Street and who turned right in to Darlington Road from Camperdown Road at 12.28am. The man was wearing a light-coloured top and dark pants. We urge this person, or anyone who may know them, to come forward as soon as possible.

    We understand these incidents are upsetting and concerning for the community and the investigation team are working tirelessly to determine the circumstances around Mr Nabizadah’s death and to bring closure for his family.

    If you have any information that could help the investigation teams, please update us at 105 online now or call 105.

    Please use the reference number 250317/6324, or reference Operation Celtic.

    Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Morwell brigade members welcome new heavy tanker to their fleet

    Source:

    Back L to R: Jeremy Martin, Jai Maher, Aaron Yates, Captain Wayne Draper, ACFO Bryan Russell, Michael Franchetto, Bayley Charalambous. Front L to R: Lynne O’Callaghan, Narelle Douthie, Jarod Rodway

    Morwell Fire Brigade has officially welcomed the arrival of its new heavy tanker through the station doors, which is set to boost firefighting capabilities to serve the local community.

    Brigade members gathered at the fire station on Thursday, 27 March to celebrate the new addition to their fleet, where CFA Assistant Chief Fire Officer Bryan Russell had the honour of handing over the keys.

    Morwell Captain Wayne Draper said the brigade was excited to use the new tanker which will put them in a better position to protect the community because of the increased water capacity of 4,000 litres.

    “The new tanker has been great for morale since coming into the station. It’s very user friendly and will be a great benefit to us,” Wayne said.

    “The extra 1,000 litres of water will go a long way out on the fireground.

    “It is also now a lot more comfortable for members to ride in the cab, and the simplicity of the layout has been easier for our volunteers to navigate.

    “Over the past few months, we’ve put a lot of work into adjusting to a completely different truck, as this one is a lot bigger than what we’ve had previously.

    “I’ve been really proud of how well our members have embraced the challenge. We’ve had eight drivers and operators do more than 15 hours of training each to become accredited and they are keen to put their training into practice.”

    CFA Assistant Chief Fire Officer Bryan Russell said the new tanker will not just be an asset for response but also for the safety of the members.

    “It has some fantastic enhancements, with updated crew protection systems and burnover protection, plus full equipment stowage,” Bryan said.

    “The new features also aim to reduce crew fatigue and improve safety and ergonomics including easy-to-read electric monitors and electric rewind hose systems.”

    “Environmentally, we’re reducing impacts through use of recyclable building materials and higher levels of emission controls.”

    The heavy tanker’s 4×4 capability and automatic transmission will also help crews access fires in difficult terrain.

    The new vehicle was funded through the Victorian Government’s CFA Capability Funding package and is one of 48 new tankers being rolled out to CFA fire brigades across Victoria to ensure volunteer firefighters are well-equipped to protect their communities.

    Morwell Fire Brigade has a strong membership of 78, with 31 of them operational, and a strong female presence of six operational, six auxiliary and 14 junior members.

    The brigade has a large response area in the Latrobe Valley area of Gippsland and averages 310 callouts a year.

    • Captain Wayne Draper and Assistant Chief Fire Officer Bryan Russell
    • Credit: Uniform Photography
    Submitted by CFA media

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: These 3 arguments are part of the long game in Trump’s trade wars

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Markus Wagner, Professor of Law and Director of the UOW Transnational Law and Policy Centre, University of Wollongong

    Since returning to office in January, US President Donald Trump has doubled down on using trade measures – mostly tariffs – to reshape global trade. He plans to impose reciprocal tariffs on what he has labelled “Liberation Day”, April 2.

    The Trump administration claims US producers face higher tariffs and more restrictions abroad than foreign producers when they export to the US.

    The administration also examined tax systems such as Europe’s Value Added Tax and Australia’s GST, import regulations and other factors. It believes – mostly wrongly – these unfairly disadvantage American businesses and contribute to the US trade deficit.

    As with many Trump initiatives, actual tariffs often change significantly between announcement and implementation, if they are implemented at all.

    His reciprocal tariffs have been narrowed to imports from the US’ largest trading partners instead of imports from all countries. There may also be tariffs on specific sectors. Last week, Trump announced 25% tariffs on cars from overseas. At the weekend said he “couldn’t care less” if this made cars more expensive for US consumers.

    Coercive control, revenue and re-shoring

    President Trump has raised a myriad of puzzling arguments in favour of tariffs. They largely fall into three categories:

    The first is the use of tariffs as a coercion tool against other countries. In the first Trump presidency, trading partners were pressured to renegotiate trade agreements such as the renamed but largely identical US-Mexico-Canada agreement.

    Similarly, the Trump administration used the threat of tariffs to gain market access, elicit better trade terms or as a form of weaponised trade to achieve unrelated foreign policy goals.

    Last week, Trump suggested he would consider a reduction in tariffs on China in exchange for a sale of TikTok by its Chinese owner.

    The second category is the use of tariffs as a source of revenue. The Trump administration envisions tariffs to be collected by a yet-to-be-created External Revenue Service. This would form the flip side of the powerful and much-maligned Internal Revenue Service.

    Trump claims tariffs will be paid by the exporting country. This would be in theory to finance future tax cuts. In practice, tariffs are almost always paid by the importer of goods and usually get passed on to consumers.

    There is a potential contradiction between these two rationales. It appears the Trump administration wants to make at least some tariffs permanent. But doing so would almost nullify the use of tariffs as a bargaining chip and coercion tool.

    The final category is to encourage companies to “re-shore” production to the US to avoid tariffs and to support US jobs.

    This would signal a reversal of what 1994 presidential candidate Ross Perot, speaking of the North American Free Trade Agreement, called the “giant sucking sound going south”. Some manufacturing may return to the US. But the high costs of building new factories, re-routing supply chains and uncompetitive US labour costs will hinder large-scale re-shoring efforts.

    A long-term plan?

    The Trump administration’s trade moves can be seen as part of a larger strategy to reshape the US domestic and the global economic system.

    In a recent speech, US Vice-President JD Vance argued for a structural reshaping of the US economy, to increase domestic innovation capacity.

    Vance warned “deindustrialisation poses risks both to our national security and our workforce”. Vance himself sums up this approach by characterising tariffs as a “necessary tool to protect our jobs and our industries”.

    This line of argument overlooks a number of critical factors. Tariffs lead to higher prices for consumers. Unless currencies adjust, the inflationary impact could disadvantage the very people that can least afford it.

    The same is true if other countries respond to US trade measures by responding in kind, as Canada and the European Union already have.

    American farmers and other export-oriented industries will be hard hit. From a strategic perspective, the US position as global leader has suffered a severe blow. Some countries are openly pivoting to its geopolitical and economic rival, China.

    If this scenario comes to pass, the US pullback – an outright withdrawal is unlikely – from the highly integrated international trading system might end up a more chaotic version of the UK’s pursuit of Brexit.

    A step back in time

    The world of liberalised trade that followed the end of the Cold War in 1990 is ending. Countries will turn inwards, prioritising their economic security and resilience. The costs of this turn away from multilateralism and international institutions, however, are not just economic.

    The close economic integration we have witnessed post-1990 has led to reduced uncertainty in international economic relations, increased international security and greater prosperity.

    A return of the “beggar thy neighbour” policies of the 1930s would be a dangerous path, with the world inching closer to the abyss. “Liberation Day” might push the world over the edge.



    Read more:
    What are non-tariff barriers – and why is agriculture so exposed?

    Markus Wagner 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. These 3 arguments are part of the long game in Trump’s trade wars – https://theconversation.com/these-3-arguments-are-part-of-the-long-game-in-trumps-trade-wars-252516

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Transporting New Zealand welcomes ferry certainty but warns of risks

    Source: Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand

    Transporting New Zealand has welcomed the detail provided by Minister for Rail Winston Peters in today’s procurement update about Cook Strait ferries.
    “It is positive that the road freight industry has some certainty around the Cook Strait connection. This includes a Christmas 2029 deadline for delivery of two new vessels, the fact they will be rail enabled, and that combined passenger and commercial vehicle lane metres will increase from 4,380 vehicle lane metres to 4,800 vehicle lane metres,” says Policy and Advocacy Lead Billy Clemens.
    “However, it is frustrating for many of our road freight members that it’s taken so long to get to this point, and that scheduled delivery now sits close to the end of the current fleet’s natural design life.
    “The Government cannot afford further delays. This tight timeframe makes bipartisan support for the current project particularly important.
    “Back in June 2024, the Ministerial Advisory Group on Future Ferry Services on the Cook Strait recommended that a contract for new ships be signed by 1 October 2024 at the latest. It noted this would mitigate the risk that ‘potentially advantageous options could be taken up by other operators and lost to the Crown while KiwiRail works to settle the HMD [iReX] claim’.”
    Transporting New Zealand also warns that procuring rail-enabled vessels will mean the Government has to keep a close eye on the project budget.
    “Transporting New Zealand hasn’t taken a fixed view on rail-enablement vs rail-compatibility, but we have noted that Ministry of Transport advised the Government in December 2023 that the rail-enabled iReX ferries and the associated land-side infrastructure were a key factor in the project’s cost escalation.”
    Transporting New Zealand looks forward to continuing to work with the Minister for Rail, Ministry of Transport, and KiwiRail to ensure a resilient Cook Strait Connection.
    About Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand
    Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand is the peak national membership association representing the road freight transport industry. Its members operate urban, rural and inter- regional commercial freight transport services throughout the country.
    Road is the dominant freight mode in New Zealand, transporting 92.8% of the freight task on a tonnage basis, and 75.1% on a tonne-km basis. The road freight transport industry employs over 34,000 people across more than 4700 businesses, with an annual turnover of $6 billion.  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Foreign auto brands seize growth opportunities in China

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    An increasing number of foreign-funded enterprises are seizing development opportunities in China’s new energy vehicle (NEV) sector by boosting investment, expanding their market presence, and advancing projects, research and cooperation.

    The global automotive industry’s shift from internal combustion vehicles to NEVs has opened new opportunities for both China and Germany, said Helmut Stettner, CEO of Audi FAW NEV Co., Ltd.

    “We see that the switch to electric mobility is accelerating in China, especially in the premium market. Despite some challenges, it continues to offer significant growth potential for Audi. We want to and will participate in this development,” he added.

    In March, German carmaker BMW partnered with Chinese tech giant Huawei to develop an in-car digital ecosystem specifically tailored for the Chinese market. Tesla’s Megafactory in east China’s Shanghai, the first of its kind built by Tesla outside the United States, also exported its first batch of Megapack energy-storage batteries this month.

    “China’s NEV market holds immense potential, continuously improving business environment and complete, efficient industrial and supply chains, which are the key factors driving foreign auto companies to invest and deepen their presence in the Chinese market,” said Gao Yuning, deputy dean of School of Public Policy and Management, Tsinghua University.

    In 2024, China’s production and sales of NEVs both exceeded 12 million units, solidifying the country’s leading position in the global market. China has established a comprehensive industrial chain, supplying 70 percent of the world’s battery materials and 60 percent of power batteries.

    In recent years, the Chinese government has created a favorable development environment for the NEV market through policies and measures such as purchase subsidies, extensive charging infrastructure, and the construction of intelligent connected vehicle demonstration zones.

    Data from the Ministry of Commerce showed that over 60 percent of vehicles purchased under the automobile replacement and renewal subsidy policy in 2024 were NEVs. As of Dec. 19, 2024, foreign brands accounted for more than 35 percent of the vehicles purchased through the policy.

    The open-mindedness of Chinese consumers toward new technologies and innovation, coupled with their focus on intelligent networking technology, has created new avenues for reform and business opportunities for foreign car companies.

    According to a Tesla salesperson in Changchun, northeast China’s Jilin Province, in the past, customers paid more attention to cruising range and cost performance, but now they look at the intelligent configuration of vehicles, such as smart cockpits and automatic parking.

    An increasing number of foreign car companies in China believe that developing new models tailored to the Chinese market is key to their future success. They are focusing on integrating smart driving, car networking and green solutions that align with the preferences and habits of Chinese consumers to achieve market breakthroughs.

    Among them, Volkswagen Group signed a strategic cooperation agreement with China’s First Automobile Works (FAW) in March to introduce 11 new models specifically tailored for the Chinese market, starting in 2026.

    “Our enduring partnership with FAW is a strong pillar of our success in China. Aligned with our ‘In China, for China’ strategy, we are further advancing FAW-VW’s product portfolio covering all powertrains, with a strong focus on NEVs, to meet evolving customer needs,” said Ralf Brandstaetter, chairman and CEO of Volkswagen Group China.

    The steady development of the Chinese economy and China’s continuous high-level opening-up are the biggest sources of confidence for foreign investment to boost their presence in China, Gao Yuning said. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Rocket crashes after liftoff in Europe’s 1st mainland commercial orbital launch

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    A German-built rocket launched from Norway’s Andoya Spaceport crashed and exploded shortly after liftoff on Sunday, marking the first commercial orbital launch from mainland Europe.

    The Spectrum rocket, developed by German startup Isar Aerospace, lifted off at 12:30 p.m. local time (1030 GMT). Around 30 seconds into the flight, it began to tilt before falling back to the ground and exploding. A loud bang was heard during the live broadcast of the event, and video footage showed the 28-meter-tall, 50-ton rocket crashing near the launch pad at Nordmela on the island of Andoya.

    No injuries were reported. Andoya Space, which operates the launch facility, said a crisis team had been activated and it was working closely with emergency services and Isar Aerospace to assess the situation. “Safety during operational activities is Andoya Spaceport’s highest priority,” the company said in a press release.

    The launch had faced several previous delays due to adverse weather conditions. Both Andoya Space and Isar Aerospace said they will provide updates as more information becomes available.

    Following the crash, Isar Aerospace issued a statement, saying that the launch had met its set goals and “the launch vehicle fell into the sea in a controlled manner.”

    “Our first test flight met all our expectations, achieving a great success,” said Daniel Metzler, CEO and Co-founder of Isar Aerospace. He emphasized that the mission provided important data and experience for future flights.

    “Now it’s time to analyze all data, learn, iterate and be back on the launch pad as soon as possible,” he added.

    Metzler also affirmed his company’s ambition “to serve customers from around the world to bring their satellites into space and to help Europe solve a major blind spot in its security architecture: access to space.”

    Before liftoff, Andoya Spaceport Operations Director Jon Harr described the event as “an important milestone” not only for Norway but for European space activities as a whole. However, Isar Aerospace had cautioned that no company has ever succeeded in achieving spaceflight in its first test launch.

    Andoya Spaceport officials stressed that such incidents are part of the development process for new space technologies. “Making this work day after day, with so many actors involved, is demanding,” Harr said.

    “Today’s maiden flight has not been launched nominally. But that doesn’t mean it wasn’t a success,” said Walther Pelzer, executive board member of the German Aerospace Center (DLR) and director general of the German Space Agency at DLR.

    He stressed the importance of today’s test, noting that it allows the team to detect errors and adapt quickly – “exactly what we expect from agile companies.”

    The project, known as “Going Full Spectrum,” had been in preparation for months. Sunday marked the final day of an initial 10-day launch window. Previous attempts had to be aborted due to high winds.

    Headquartered near Munich, Germany, Isar Aerospace was founded in 2018 and now has over 400 employees from more than 50 nations. Sponsored by private funding from international investors, it builds and operates launch vehicles for transporting small and medium-sized satellites as well as satellite constellations into Earth’s orbit.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Hong Kong mobilizes aid for victims of Myanmar’s deadly earthquake

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government has announced that it has earmarked 30 million Hong Kong dollars (3.86 million U.S. dollars) from the Disaster Relief Fund for emergency relief projects following the 7.9 magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar on Friday.
    Meanwhile, various sectors in Hong Kong have been making donations to support earthquake relief, including the Hong Kong Red Cross, which has allocated 200,000 Hong Kong dollars (25,712 U.S. dollars) to assist Myanmar and is currently providing emergency tracing services to help individuals in Hong Kong to locate family members who have lost contact due to the earthquake.
    Additionally, the HKSAR government has dispatched a 51-strong search and rescue team to Myanmar, equipped with approximately 9 tons of supplies to aid in the search and rescue operations in the earthquake-affected areas. 

    MIL OSI China News –