Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
LCQ2: Development of Northern Metropolis
Question:
There are views pointing out that the Northern Metropolis and the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone (Hetao Zone) are the key engines of Hong Kong’s innovation and technology development, and that the Government should expedite the development and promote the stationing of enterprises in the area. In addition, the Government should enhance public participation in its fundraising through bond issuance for promoting the related infrastructure projects, so that the public can share the dividends of development. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
(1) whether it will consider setting up a “Northern Metropolis Online Office” first to provide consolidated planning and land information as well as the latest progress through an online platform, with a view to inviting enterprises interested in stationing there to register in Hong Kong in advance, and to study the provision of support or policy incentives for the registered enterprises, such as the provision of virtual showrooms, online negotiation and pre-registration services, so that enterprises can make early preparations for seamless integration with the physical facilities upon their completion;
(2) in order to attract enterprises as a priority to establish a presence in the Northern Metropolis and Hetao Zone, whether it will introduce targeted support measures, such as the provision of transitional office space and special recruitment programmes for talents; and
(3) whether it will conduct a study on allowing members of the public to have priority in subscribing to the relevant government bonds for the Northern Metropolis projects with their Mandatory Provident Fund contributions, so that members of the public can share the dividends of the development?
Reply:
President,
The Northern Metropolis (NM) is crucial to the social and economic development of Hong Kong, providing impetus for the growth of innovation and technology as well as other industries, enabling more in-depth participation in the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, while creating quality job opportunities and living environment for our people. Since 2019, works related to multiple New Development Areas (NDAs) in the NM have been rolled out progressively and are advancing at full steam. It is anticipated that the NM will produce considerable “spade-ready sites” and floor spaces for various industries in the coming years. Additionally, the Hong Kong Park of the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone (Hetao Hong Kong Park) is set to commence operation this year.
In consultation with relevant departments, our reply to the question raised by Dr the Hon Starry Lee is as follows:
(1) The NM project is a cross-bureaux undertaking. The Steering Committee on the Northern Metropolis led by the Chief Executive oversees the NM development. The Northern Metropolis Co-ordination Office (NMCO) under the Development Bureau (DEVB) has assumed an overall championing and co-ordinating role in the development of the NM, including joining hands with other bureaux, the Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises (OASES) and Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK) in promoting the NM and facilitating the development of various industries therein.
In particular, OASES is tasked with attracting high-potential and representative strategic enterprises from around the globe, and has announced four batches of 84 strategic enterprises that have set up or expanded their businesses in Hong Kong, many of which have also expressed interest in establishing their presence in the NM. InvestHK, on the other hand, is committed to assisting Mainland and overseas enterprises to set up and expand in Hong Kong by providing one-stop support services. Last year, InvestHK assisted over 500 enterprises to set up or expand in Hong Kong, including those which have expressed interest in the land for industries in the NM. The NMCO focuses on presenting the latest progress of various planning and engineering projects in the NM to various sectors home and abroad, and also organises large-scale investment promotion activities to encourage local, Mainland and overseas enterprises to support and participate in the development of the NM. Moreover, the three offices mentioned above, namely OASES, InvestHK and the NMCO, will further collaborate to follow up on the needs of those enterprises interested in setting up businesses in the NM, such as forming a dedicated team consisting of representatives from all three parties.
On information dissemination, OASES and the DEVB have set up online media such as dedicated webpages and social media platforms to introduce the support services of OASES and promote Hong Kong’s advantages, as well as to disseminate the latest information on various development projects in the NM respectively. InvestHK has also promoted the latest developments in the NM and publicised the NM’s investment opportunities through its global network. In addition, the Civil Engineering and Development Department has established Community Liaison Centres in some of the NDAs to introduce the latest information on these areas. The DEVB is also preparing for the launch of a booklet on attracting enterprises and investments in the NM, which will holistically provide information on the overall planning, priority industries, and engineering works/tenders of the NM.
(2) Considering the diverse backgrounds of enterprises interested in coming to Hong Kong, the Government’s efforts on attracting businesses and investment focus on understanding and suitably catering to the different needs of individual enterprises. During the process of assisting Mainland and overseas enterprises to establishing their presence in Hong Kong, OASES and InvestHK will help them identify premises for operation, among which the NM is one of the recommended highlights. They will also help those enterprises, at the initial preparatory stage and in need to establish their presence, to move into other locations in Hong Kong so that fundamental work such as research and development can be commenced to lay the groundwork for their future presence in the NM.
As for the Hetao Hong Kong Park, the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park Limited (HSITPL) is pressing ahead with the work on attracting tenants. The first batch of tenants is expected to move in starting from the second half of this year, and so far the HSITPL has entered into a more intensive phase of negotiations with around 30 enterprises.
(3) All proceeds raised from the Government green bonds and infrastructure bonds are credited to the Capital Works Reserve Fund, with a view to supporting various infrastructure works including those in the NM. The Financial Secretary proposed in the Budgets in recent years that the Government planned to earmark a certain proportion of the future issuances of these two bonds for priority investment by Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF) funds. To this end, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority and the Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Authority have established a mechanism, which was first applied to the institutional green bonds issued under the Government Green Bond Programme in June 2023. A similar mechanism will continue to apply to the institutional bonds issued under the Government Sustainable Bond Programme (formerly known as the Government Green Bond Programme (Note)) and the Infrastructure Bond Programme, aiming to allow MPF scheme members to participate in promoting infrastructure development, including those in the NM, through MPF funds, while obtaining relatively stable investment returns at a low risk and sharing the development outcomes.
Note: The Government Green Bond Programme was renamed the Government Sustainable Bond Programme starting from May 10, 2024.
Issued at HKT 19:21
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LCQ12: Support for small and medium-sized law firms and young barristers
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Following is a question by the Hon Maggie Chan and a written reply by the Secretary for Justice, Mr Paul Lam, SC, in the Legislative Council today (May 7):
Question:
There are views that, as Hong Kong is the centre for international legal and dispute resolution services in the Asia-Pacific region and where the International Organization for Mediation is located, the development of the legal profession is crucial to enhancing Hong Kong’s business environment governed by the rule of law and giving full play to the unique advantages of Hong Kong’s common law. It is learnt that small and medium-sized law firms and young barristers in Hong Kong face many challenges in terms of market competition, resource allocation and professional development. Regarding the support for small and medium-sized law firms and young barristers, will the Government inform this Council:
(1) whether it has currently formulated specific policies or measures to assist the professional development of small and medium-sized law firms and young barristers; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;
(2) whether it has assessed the effectiveness of the policies or measures mentioned in (1); if it has assessed, whether there are statistics or examples showing that such policies or measures have effectively enhanced the quality and competitiveness of the professional legal services provided by small and medium-sized law firms; and the number of small and medium-sized law firms and young barristers that have benefited so far; if it has not assessed, of the reasons for that;
(3) whether it has assessed the response of the legal profession to the policies or measures mentioned in (1); what specific measures will the Government implement in the future to further support the professional development and enhance the competitiveness of small and medium-sized law firms and young barristers; and
(4) whether it has formulated key performance indicators for supporting the professional development and enhancing the competitiveness of small and medium-sized law firms and young barristers; if so, of the specific details (including the indicators set); if not, the reasons for that?
Reply:
President,
In response to the enquiry raised by the Hon Maggie Chan, the consolidated reply is as follows:
A self-regulatory regime is applied for Hong Kong’s legal profession. On the premise of fully respecting the self-regulatory regime of the legal profession, the Department of Justice (DoJ) has all along been implementing various initiatives and new policies to foster an environment conducive to the professional development of the legal sector and create opportunities for them. According to statistics from the Law Society of Hong Kong (Law Society), nearly 90 per cent of law firms in Hong Kong are sole proprietorships or consist of no more than five partners. In formulating and introducing policies, the DoJ will take into account the needs of small and medium-sized law firms.
Over the years, the DoJ has devised various policies and/or measures to support the professional development of solicitors from small and medium-sized law firms and young barristers with details set out below:
Understudy Programme (Civil/Prosecution Work)
Launched in mid-2020, the programme aims to provide training opportunities for the less-experienced barristers and solicitors (i.e. with less than five years’ post call/admission experience) to handle civil and prosecution work of the Government in order to broaden their horizon, enrich them with valuable experience and improve their case management skills. The trainings include drafting of legal opinions, conducting legal research, observing lawyers in action in different levels of courts and various hearings, participating in hearing preparation works, acting as junior counsel to senior counsel or counsel or Government Counsel, and assisting in handling more complex cases conducted in the District Court or the Court of First Instance or magistracy cases with lengthy trials. As at March 31, 2025, a total of 297 solicitors and barristers with less than five years’ qualification participated in various civil and criminal works through the programme with satisfactory response. The DoJ has, from time to time, received expressions of interest from solicitors and barristers to participate in the programme, reflecting the continued support and participation from the sector. The DoJ will continue to review and select suitable work to provide more training opportunities to participating solicitors and barristers.
Professional Exchange Programme
The programme aims to facilitate the exchange of best practices between lawyers in the private sector and DoJ. Qualified private sector lawyers can apply through their law firms/chambers for attachment to DoJ; law firms/chambers interested in accepting exchange lawyers from DoJ can also contact DoJ.
The feedback of participants on the programme has been positive. Participants considered that their attachment facilitated cross-fertilisation of knowledge and experience and the exchange of best practices.
The programme was launched in September 2019. As of 2024-25, a total of 19 lawyers (eight lawyers in the private sector and 11 government counsel) have participated in the programme.
The Professional Exchange Programme has been well-received by the legal sector since its launch. We will continue to maintain close communication with law firms/chambers to facilitate the formulation of suitable exchange arrangements; and will continue to review the implementation of the programme and make refinement in a timely manner.
Secondment Programmes to Relevant International Organisations
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region has, with the support of the Central Government, made standing secondment arrangements with the Hague Conference on Private International Law and the International Institute for the Unification of Private Law, which are open to application by all qualified local legal professionals from the public and private sectors (irrespective of the size of the law firms they work in). Since the said secondment arrangements have been put in place, a total of six local barristers and solicitors from the private sector, who have worked in law firms of different sizes, have participated. The DoJ will continue to promote to the legal sector (including young legal professionals) the relevant secondment programmes.
Hong Kong International Legal Talents Training Academy
Capitalising on Hong Kong’s bilingual common law system and the unique strengths and advantages under the “one country, two systems” principle, the Hong Kong International Legal Talents Training Academy was launched on November 8, 2024. The Academy will make the most of Hong Kong’s bilingual common law system (in English and Chinese), as well as the international status, regularly organise different practical legal courses, seminars and international exchange initiatives, so as to promote talent exchanges in the region and beyond, and provide foreign-related legal talent training for our country, and practical training for the local solicitors and barristers (including young legal professionals) for professional development.
The capacity-building programmes that the Academy will organise include the “Mainland Civil and Commercial Legal Practice Training Course 2025” from June 13 to 14, 2025, which aims to enable the local legal industry to fully understand the latest developments in civil and commercial practice in the Mainland, the procedures and practical arrangements for handling relevant cases by the Mainland courts and arbitration institutions, and to promote cooperation between local and the Mainland legal industries, so as to provide more comprehensive services to clients; and a seminar on criminal prosecution for prosecutors from the country and Association of Southeast Asian Nations member states, and local solicitors and barristers in September 2025, etc.
The Academy will design and organise short-term training programmes taking into account the practical needs of small and medium-sized law firms and young barristers. By flexibly arranging the course content and format, the training programmes will address the diverse professional development needs of participants, thereby achieving more focused and effective training outcomes, and fostering the professional growth of small and medium-sized law firms and young barristers.
Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) Legal Professional Examination (GBA Examination)
Since 2021, eligible Hong Kong and Macao legal practitioners may provide legal services in the nine Mainland municipalities in the GBA on certain civil and commercial matters to which Mainland laws apply (including litigation and non-litigation matters), after passing the GBA Examination and having obtained the Lawyer’s License (GBA). In September 2023, the General Office of the State Council published the revised pilot measures for Hong Kong and Macao legal practitioners to obtain Mainland practice qualifications and to practise law in the nine Mainland municipalities in the GBA (the revised pilot measures), which lowered the practice experience threshold for Hong Kong and Macao legal practitioners to enroll in the GBA Examination from five years to three years. DoJ has worked closely with the Mainland authorities and continued to keep close contact with the two legal professional bodies as well as encouraging more Hong Kong legal practitioners to enroll in the GBA Examination.
There are now Hong Kong legal practitioners who are GBA lawyers taking up court cases of the nine Mainland municipalities in the GBA and appearing in court as litigation representatives, as well as taking up GBA arbitration cases, with cases being duly completed. With the benefit of the lowered practice experience threshold, from 2024, more Hong Kong and Macao legal practitioners, including young Hong Kong barristers and solicitors, would be eligible to enroll in the GBA Examination, thus obtaining dual qualification in the Mainland and Hong Kong, and be able to seize the unlimited opportunities brought by the developments in the GBA.
The GBA Examination has been held four times. As at the end of March 2025, over 550 Hong Kong and Macao legal practitioners have obtained the Lawyer’s License (GBA).
Hong Kong legal practitioners have responded enthusiastically towards the GBA Examination. Before September 2023, there were some legal practitioners interested in practising in the nine Mainland municipalities but were unable to enroll in the GBA Examination due to the practice experience threshold. The revised pilot measures lowered the practice experience threshold for Hong Kong and Macao legal practitioners to enroll in the GBA Examination, responded to the aspirations of young Hong Kong legal practitioners and encouraged them to participate in the construction of rule of law in the GBA.
GBA Mediator Training Course of Hong Kong
To promote the interface of the non-litigation dispute resolution services in the GBA and to enhance the understanding of Hong Kong mediators regarding the mediation systems in Guangdong and Macao, the DoJ held the GBA Mediator Training Course of Hong Kong on August 16, 2024. Since the number of registered participants far exceeded the maximum capacity of the event venue, the DoJ specially introduced online mode to accommodate more participants. More than 400 participants have attended the Course, including young lawyers from Hong Kong. Mediation experts from Guangdong and Macao were invited to share the respective mediation systems, culture and experience of Guangdong and Macao, as well as to explore the latest developments of cross-boundary disputes mediation in the GBA and the cultural difference and integration in mediation of the three places. The course discussed topics including the means and skills in handling cross-boundary disputes, enhancing Hong Kong lawyers’ understanding of handling cross-boundary disputes in the GBA. The DoJ will consider conducting further relevant courses as necessary in the future.
The Deputy Secretary for Justice led delegations of young lawyers to visit GBA Mainland cities
The Deputy Secretary for Justice led two delegations of young representatives from the legal sector to visit GBA Mainland cities, including Huizhou, Shenzhen and Foshan in September and November 2023. The visits helped young legal professionals and law students deepen their understanding of the legal systems of the GBA Mainland cities and that of the Mainland, further connect their career development with the overall national development and deepen their collaboration with the legal sector of other GBA cities, so as to jointly promote high-quality national development. Number of delegates of the two delegations exceeded 70 people, including young representatives of the Law Society and the Hong Kong Bar Association, young government counsel of the DoJ, and law students from the three law schools.
Updating the Talent List
The Government announced to update the Talent List to include “Legal Knowledge Engineers”. The new arrangement took effect on March 1, 2025 in response to the legal profession’s need for artificial intelligence. The introduction of “Legal Knowledge Engineers” helps improve the efficiency of legal professional services and promote high value-added development of Hong Kong’s economy and society.
By developing artificial intelligence systems, “Legal Knowledge Engineers” act as a bridge between lawyers and other general programmers, developing artificial intelligence systems specifically for law firms. They can help law firms (including small and medium-sized law firms) improve work efficiency, for example, when conducting due diligence, the searching of key terms within huge volumes of documents can produce highly accurate responses within a short period of time.
ROLE Stars Train-the-Leaders Programme (TTL Programme)
Since the launching of the TTL Programme in November 2023, through collaboration with relevant organisations and stakeholders, three phases of courses have been developed. Young lawyers have been invited as speakers and facilitators. The DoJ enhances the law-abiding awareness of young people and the public in a holistic manner, and to increase the understanding of the rule of law principles and the legal system through the TTL Programme. Since its launch, the TTL Programme has attracted over 350 trainees, including 36 young lawyers as facilitators.
DoJ i-Day
The event was led by young in-house lawyers of the DoJ “DoJ Fellows” in August and September 2023, and there are plans to hold a similar open day in June 2025. The event provided young lawyers with an opportunity to meet young people who aspire to join the legal profession, and also allowed those who have not yet joined the legal sector to deepen their understanding of the legal field and the work of the DoJ. The event in 2023 attracted more than 330 trainee solicitors, trainee barristers, legal professionals, law-degree students and students from other degrees and the general public to participate.
Given the nature of the work of the DoJ, the benefits of a measure or policy to society may not be entirely quantifiable, the DoJ does not possess the relevant key performance indicators on the above measures or policies in support of the professional development of solicitors from small and medium-sized law firms and young barristers. The Government will continue to introduce measures or policies at appropriate times and update existing ones from time to time to align them with the latest development of the profession.
MOU for deepening cooperation & peace as enshrined in the teachings of the Buddha
Source: Government of India
Posted On: 07 MAY 2025 8:31PM by PIB Delhi
During the exposition in Vietnam of the Holy Relics of the Buddha from India to coincide with the United Nations (UN) Day of Vesak 2025, in the presence of the Head of Indian Delegation, Union Minister of Minority Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs, Shri Kiren Rijiju an MOU was signed by the Secretary General of International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) Ven. Shartse Khensur Rinpoche Jangchup Choeden and the President of the National Vietnam Buddhist Sangha (VBS), and Dhamma Council member of IBC, Most Ven. Dr Thich Thien Nhon.
This Memorandum of Understanding was in pursuance to the agreement signed on 29 May 2022 between the two bodies in the spirit of deepening cooperation and advancing the shared ideals of compassion, wisdom, and peace as enshrined in the teachings of the Buddha.
This declaration, the official launch of the Vietnam Chapter of the International Buddhist Confederation was also signed, as a witness by the Vice President of the Sangha, Most Ven. Thich Thien Phap and from India by the Director General of IBC, Mr. Abhijit Halder, in the presence of the Indian Ambassador to Vietnam, Shri Sandeep Arya and Most Ven. Dr Thich Nhat Tu, Standing Vice Chancellor, Vietnam Buddhist University and Vice President of IBC. It was attended by several senior Sangha members from the Vietnamese, including VBS members who have been actively involved in India related activities on the VBS.
This Chapter shall broadly serve as a platform to promote the core values of Buddha Dhamma in Vietnam and beyond, contributing to global peace, harmony, and sustainable development; besides strengthen the bonds of brotherhood among Buddhist traditions, schools, and practitioners across nations.
It would also facilitate cultural, educational, and humanitarian exchange programs and support research, publications, and events that enhance understanding and dissemination of Buddhist teachings.
The agreement also enables representation of Vietnam’s Buddhist community in regional and international forums coordinated by the IBC.
The IBC and the VBS have been traditional partners since the inception of IBC. Senior members of the VBS are members in the governing Body of IBC. This agreement will further strengthen bonds between the Buddhist bodies of the two countries.
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Sunil Kumar Tiwari
(Release ID: 2127603) Visitor Counter : 15
Union Home Minister, Shri Amit Shah, chairs a security review meeting with the Lieutenant Governors and Chief Ministers of border states adjoining Pakistan and Nepal
Source: Government of India
Union Home Minister, Shri Amit Shah, chairs a security review meeting with the Lieutenant Governors and Chief Ministers of border states adjoining Pakistan and Nepal
All Chief Ministers and Lieutenant Governors present during the meeting congratulates Prime Minister Modi and the three armed forces for the success of Operation Sindoor
Operation Sindoor, Bharat’s befitting reply to those who dare to challenge its borders, military, and citizens
Appropriate response has been given to Pahalgam terror attack through Operation Sindoor, sending a strong message to the entire world
Operation Sindoor demonstrates Modi government’s zero-tolerance policy against terrorism to the entire world
The unity displayed by the nation at this time has boosted the morale of the countrymen
Ensure smooth operation of essential services such as hospitals, fire services, etc.; ensure uninterrupted supply of essential goods
Home Minister directs states to keep SDRF, Civil Defence, Home Guards, NCC, etc., on alert to handle any situation
Anti-national propaganda by undesirable elements in social and other media platforms should be strictly monitored; prompt action should be taken in coordination with state governments and central agencies
Every possible effort should be made to maintain seamless communication and the security of vulnerable points should also be improved
Posted On: 07 MAY 2025 7:12PM by PIB Delhi
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, today chaired a security review meeting in New Delhi with the Lieutenant Governors and Chief Ministers of border states adjoining Pakistan and Nepal. The meeting was attended via video conferencing by the Lieutenant Governors of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, Chief Ministers of Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and West Bengal, and a representative from the Sikkim government. Senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), including the Union Home Secretary, Director of Intelligence Bureau (IB), Director General of Border Security Force (BSF), and Director General of Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), were also present.
In the meeting, Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah said that after the heinous terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, on April 22, 2025, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi had said that the country would give a befitting reply to the perpetrators and supporters of the terror attack. The Home Minister expressed gratitude for Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s firm resolve and decision regarding Operation Sindoor. He stated that Operation Sindoor is a befitting reply from Bharat to those who dare to challenge India’s borders, military, and citizens. All Chief Ministers and Lieutenant Governors present in the meeting congratulated Prime Minister Modi and the three armed forces for the success of Operation Sindoor.
Union Home Minister said that, without ignoring the Pahalgam terrorist attack, an appropriate response was given through Operation Sindoor, sending a strong message to the world. He said that Operation Sindoor, launched by the Indian armed forces against terrorist camps after specific inputs, is a testament to the Modi government’s zero tolerance policy against terrorism to the entire world. Shri Shah said that the unity shown by the country at this time has boosted the morale of the countrymen.
Shri Amit Shah said that in the intervening night of May 6-7, 2025, the Indian armed forces attacked nine specific locations linked to terrorists, destroying their infrastructure. The Home Minister said that in the operation carried out by Indian armed forces, terrorist training camps, weapon bases, and hideouts of organizations such as Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed, Hizbul Mujahideen, and other terrorist groups were completely destroyed.
Union Home Minister said that all states should make their preparations as per the guidelines issued for the mock drill. He said that arrangements should be made for smooth operation of essential services like hospitals, fire brigade etc. and uninterrupted supply of essential goods should be ensured. The Home Minister asked the states to keep SDRF, Civil Defence, Home Guards, NCC etc. on alert to deal with any situation. He said that efforts should be made to ensure public participation through citizens and non-governmental organisations.
Shri Amit Shah said that strict vigil should be kept on anti-national propaganda by unwanted elements on social and other media platforms and prompt action should be taken in coordination with state governments and central agencies. The Home Minister said that every effort should be made to maintain seamless communication and the security of vulnerable points should also be further strengthened. He asked the states to stop spreading unnecessary fear among the public and take steps to spread awareness among the people against rumours. He said that coordination between the local administration, army and paramilitary forces should be further enhanced.
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RK/VV/PR/PS
(Release ID: 2127583) Visitor Counter : 147
C-DOT and CSIR-NPL Sign MoU to Advance Collaborative Research in Classical and Quantum Communications
Source: Government of India
C-DOT and CSIR-NPL Sign MoU to Advance Collaborative Research in Classical and Quantum Communications
The two institutions will work together for Quantum Key Distribution (QKD), standardization and characterization of quantum communication systems, single-photon sources and detectors, EIT (Electromagnetically Induced Transparency)-based quantum systems, FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array)-based control electronics.
Posted On: 07 MAY 2025 6:21PM by PIB Delhi
In a significant step towards advancing indigenous capabilities in classical and quantum communication technologies, the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) and the CSIR–National Physical Laboratory (CSIR-NPL) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a collaborative framework for joint research and innovation. C-DOT, India’s premier telecom R&D institution under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), continues to lead innovation in telecommunications, including switching systems, network protocols, IoT, M2M, wireless and quantum communications. CSIR-NPL, the National Metrology Institute (NMI) of India, is the custodian of national standards and has a rich legacy of conducting cutting-edge research in metrology, materials, and environmental sciences.
The primary objective of the agreement is to establish a long-term collaborative framework to support research, development, standardization, and delivery of next-generation communication technologies. C-DOT brings deep expertise in network protocols, IoT, software applications, and quantum communications, while CSIR-NPL contributes unmatched capabilities in scientific measurement, standardization, and traceability to SI units, creating a powerful synergy.
Collaborative research support is a cornerstone of this partnership, with both organizations agreeing to extend access to their research facilities, technical expertise, and administrative support for the successful execution of joint initiatives. They also intend to pursue additional grant funding and other resources to advance shared goals.
In addition to joint R&D, the MoU promotes academic exchange and knowledge sharing through guest lectures, workshops, seminars, and collaborative teaching initiatives. Faculty, researchers, and students from both organizations will have opportunities to engage in cross-institutional learning and skill development. Furthermore, a strong emphasis is placed on intellectual property and data sharing, with a commitment to develop a joint framework defining ownership, usage rights, and publication guidelines to ensure equitable and transparent management of outcomes arising from the collaboration.
Speaking at the MoU signing ceremony, Dr. Rajkumar Upadhyay, CEO, C-DOT, highlighted the critical role of quantum communications in securing the nation’s future digital infrastructure. He stated, “Quantum communication represents the next frontier in safeguarding data and ensuring the integrity of critical information infrastructure. This partnership with CSIR-NPL is not just a strategic alignment of capabilities, but a commitment to national priorities of self-reliance and technological sovereignty. Through this collaboration, we aim to harness the complementary strengths of both institutions to accelerate the development of indigenous solutions that are globally competitive and future-ready.”
Prof. Venugopal Achanta, Director, CSIR-NPL, conveyed his appreciation for the collaboration with C-DOT, stating that the partnership holds significant promise in elevating India’s global standing in the field of quantum secure communication technologies. Echoing on the statement of Dr. Upadhyay, he stressed on the need for joint activities to strengthen the quality infrastructure in the country. This will boost the Government’s initiatives like “Make India” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat”.
The agreement was signed during a formal ceremony attended by Dr. Rajkumar Upadhyay, CEO, C-DOT, Ms. Shikha Srivastava, EVP, C-DOT, along with Prof. Venugopal Achanta, Director, Dr. S. R. Dhakate, Chief Scientist, Dr. Poonam Arora, Senior Principal Scientist, and Dr. Paramita Guha, Senior Scientist, from CSIR-NPL and other senior officials from C-DOT.
This partnership stands as a testament to the nation’s growing emphasis on self-reliance in high-tech research and development. By combining C-DOT’s telecom innovation with CSIR-NPL’s foundational scientific leadership, this MoU paves the way for India to become a global leader in secure, scalable, and standardized communication technologies for the future.
Dr. Upadhyay, CEO, C-DOT and Prof. Venugopal Achanta from NPL along with other officials from C-DOT & NPL present at the MOU signing ceremony.
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SAMRAT
(Release ID: 2127568) Visitor Counter : 7
Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy Launch Website and Stakeholders’ Portal to Strengthen Non-Ferrous Metal Recycling Ecosystem
Source: Government of India
Posted On: 07 MAY 2025 5:56PM by PIB Delhi
Union Minister of Coal and Mines,Shri. G Kishan Reddy today launched a dedicated Non-Ferrous Metal Recycling Website and Stakeholders’ Portal – https://nfmrecycling.jnarddc.gov.in – in the presence of the Minister of State for Coal and Mines, Shri Satish Chandra Dubey and senior officials from the Ministry of Mines and JNARDDC. The initiative aims to promote a structured, transparent, and sustainable recycling ecosystem in India.
Developed under the implementation guidelines of the National Non-Ferrous Metal Scrap Recycling Framework, the platform is designed to bring together key stakeholders, improve data visibility, and support evidence-based policymaking in the recycling of aluminium, copper, lead, zinc, and critical elements.
Speaking at the launch, Union Minister Shri G. Kishan Reddy said, “India is committed to building a circular economy that optimally utilises its resources. This portal will not only provide real-time visibility into the recycling landscape but also empower all stakeholders to make informed decisions, bridge gaps, and unlock the full potential of our non-ferrous metal sector.”
The Minister of State Shri Satish Chandra Dubey lauded the initiative, stating that “this portal is a much-needed step in strengthening the recycling value chain and enhancing industry participation through transparency and data-driven policy support.”
The website will act as a national hub for information dissemination, awareness generation, and engagement with recyclers, dismantlers, aggregators, industry associations, and research institutions. It highlights government initiatives, provides updates on stakeholder meetings and policy developments, and offers access to national statistics, standards, and infrastructure-related achievements.
The integrated portal also enables registration of industry participants and collection of crucial data on raw material consumption, recycling capacity, technology usage, and workforce trends—supporting future interventions in R&D, infrastructure development, and skill enhancement.
Key Features Include:
- National registry for dismantlers, recyclers, traders, and collection centres
- Tools to track raw material flows, product types, technology adoption, and workforce data
- Performance benchmarking mechanisms
- Identification of regional and sectoral infrastructure and skill gaps
- Support for development of standards, certification systems, and awareness campaigns
This initiative marks a major step toward strengthening India’s non-ferrous metal recycling ecosystem and aligns with the national vision of circular economy, sustainability, and resource efficiency.
Significant step towards advancing circular economy!
Launched the Non-Ferrous Metal Recycling Website & Stakeholders’ Portal, an initiative of the Ministry of Mines, today in New Delhi.
The portal is a one-stop platform for industry registration, data integration, and… pic.twitter.com/fjBatusGzH
— G Kishan Reddy (@kishanreddybjp) May 7, 2025
Union Minister Shri G. Kishan Reddy, along with MoS Shri Satish Chandra Dubey, launched the Non-Ferrous Metal Recycling Website & Stakeholders’ Portal today, in the presence of senior officials of the Ministry of Mines and JNARDDC. 🇮🇳
This platform will drive India’s circular… pic.twitter.com/8DCPDTEeP6
— Ministry of Mines (@MinesMinIndia) May 7, 2025
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Shuhaib T
(Release ID: 2127564) Visitor Counter : 53
Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, invites suggestions from experts/public on Draft Framework of ‘India’s Climate Finance Taxonomy by 25th June 2025
Source: Government of India
Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, invites suggestions from experts/public on Draft Framework of ‘India’s Climate Finance Taxonomy by 25th June 2025
India’s climate finance taxonomy will facilitate greater resource flow to climate-friendly technologies and activities, enabling India to achieve the vision of being Net Zero by 2070 while ensuring long-term access to reliable and affordable energy
Posted On: 07 MAY 2025 5:53PM by PIB Delhi
In pursuance of the Union Budget 2024-25 announcement (Paragraph 104 of the budget speech) to develop India’s Climate Finance Taxonomy, the Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, invites expert/public comments (format below) on the Draft framework. (CLICK HERE TO ACCESS — DRAFT FRAMEWORK OF INDIA’S CLIMATE FINANCE TAXONOMY)
The Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs announced in the Union Budget 2025-26:
“We will develop a taxonomy for climate finance for enhancing the availability of capital for climate adaptation and mitigation. This will support achievement of the country’s climate commitments and green transition”
A Draft Framework of the Climate Finance Taxonomy has been developed pursuant to this announcement. This framework outlines the approach, objectives, and principles that will guide the taxonomy. It also details the methodology for classifying activities, projects, and measures that contribute to India’s climate commitments, while also taking into account goals associated with achieving Viksit Bharat by 2047.
The draft framework will be the basis for developing sectoral annexures. The sectoral annexes will outline the measures, activities, and projects considered climate-supportive, and those identified for promoting the transition.
India’s climate finance taxonomy aims to facilitate greater resource flow to climate-friendly technologies and activities, enabling the country to achieve the vision of being Net Zero by 2070 while also ensuring long-term access to reliable and affordable energy. The Climate Finance Taxonomy will serve as a tool to identify activities consistent with a country’s climate action goals and transition pathway.
Comments may be emailed to aditi.pathak[at]gov[dot]in by 25th June 2025 with the Subject “Comments on the Draft Framework for the Taxonomy”.
The comments received through public consultation will be duly considered and examined, following which the Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, will release the Framework of India’s Climate Finance Taxonomy.
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Stamp duty bill passage welcomed
Source: Hong Kong Information Services
The Government welcomed the passage of the Stamp Duty (Amendment) Bill 2025 by the Legislative Council today, which implements the adjustment of the maximum value of properties chargeable to the $100 stamp duty from $3 million to $4 million.
Proposed in the 2025-26 Budget, the adjustment aims to ease the burden on buyers of properties at lower values.
Based on the 2024-25 property transaction data, the Government said it estimates that the measure will benefit about 15% of property transactions, with government revenue reduced by about $400 million annually.
The legislation as passed will be published in the Government Gazette on May 16.
The relevant adjustment, which took effect at 11am on February 26 this year under the Public Revenue Protection (Stamp Duty) Order 2025 gazetted on the same day, applies to instruments executed on or after February 26, 2025.
MOFA response to Chinese Foreign Ministry affirming Somalia’s entry ban on Taiwan nationals
Source: Republic of China Taiwan
MOFA response to Chinese Foreign Ministry affirming Somalia’s entry ban on Taiwan nationals
Date：2025-05-01
Data Source：Department of West Asian and African Affairs
May 1, 2025
In response to a question from Reuters on April 30, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that it highly commended Somalia for having banned the entry of Taiwan nationals. The comments from the Chinese ministry clearly show that the Somalian government’s extremely unfriendly action against Taiwan was instigated by China.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) once again strongly condemns the Chinese authorities and demands that they immediately stop suppressing the Taiwanese people’s freedom of travel and deliberately misrepresenting United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758. This egregious behavior of the Chinese and Somalian governments that ignores people’s freedom and safety of travel can do nothing but undermine international peace and cause more instability around the world.
MOFA congratulates Friedrich Merz on appointment as German chancellor and formation of new government
Source: Republic of China Taiwan
MOFA congratulates Friedrich Merz on appointment as German chancellor and formation of new government
Date：2025-05-07
Data Source：Department of European Affairs
May 7, 2025
No. 142
The Bundestag officially elected Friedrich Merz of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) as the new federal chancellor of Germany in a vote on May 6. The new government of Germany was formed by a coalition comprising the CDU/Christian Social Union faction and the Social Democratic Party of Germany. The new cabinet was sworn in on the same day.
On behalf of the government of the Republic of China (Taiwan), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs extends sincere congratulations to the people and government of Germany. It has also instructed the Taipei Representative Office in Germany to promptly forward a congratulatory letter from President Lai Ching-te conveying expectations for even closer and more cordial relations between Taiwan and Germany.
In the new government’s coalition agreement, the chapter on foreign relations, national defense policy, development cooperation, and human rights states that Germany will continue to foster relations with Taiwan and reiterates that any change to the status quo regarding Taiwan must be carried out in a peaceful manner. It further maintains that a free, stable, and secure Indo-Pacific is in Germany’s fundamental interests. Such content underlines the new German government’s high regard for Taiwan-Germany relations and peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.
Taiwan and Germany share the core values of freedom, democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. Taiwan looks forward to building on the existing solid foundation to steadily deepen comprehensive collaboration with the new German government and to jointly advance peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific. (E)