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  • MIL-OSI: EfTEN Real Estate Fund AS unaudited results for 3rd quarter and nine months of 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    The decrease in euro interest rates is quietly increasing transaction activity on the Baltic real estate market and has a positive effect on the financial results of EfTEN Real Estate Fund AS. Thus, in the third quarter of 2024, the fund’s consolidated interest expense decreased by more than 60 thousand euros compared to the previous quarter. From the transactions perspective, the third quarter was the most active in recent years – the Fund’s subsidiary EfTEN Tähesaju tee OÜ sold the Tähesaju Hortes property, and the fund established two new 100% subsidiaries to acquire the logistics centers Paemurru and Härgmäe respectively in Tallinn and Harjumaa. The acquisition cost of the two new properties will be almost 15 million euros upon their final completion. In the third quarter of this year, the construction work was completed and the ERM elderly care home was also opened next to Tartu.

    A further decline in interest rates is expected. This has already had a positive effect on listed share and bond prices of real estate sector companies on the Scandinavian stock exchange. In the wake of these developments, banks with Nordic owners operating in the Baltics are again looking more positively at financing the real estate sector. According to the fund manager, this creates a good basis for overcoming the decline of the past few years in the Baltic commercial real estate market. However, since local major real estate investors lack capital at the moment and there is no sign of foreign investors entering the local market, the recovery will not be quick. The market still remains a so-called buyer’s market, where it is possible to acquire high-quality property at a good price level. For this reason, the fund announced its intention to launch a new share issue in the fall of 2024, with the aim of raising additional equity of up to a maximum of EUR 30 million. At the extraordinary general meeting held on 16 October 2024, the shareholders granted the supervisory board and management the necessary authorizations to organize the share issue.

    Financial overview

    The consolidated sales revenue of EfTEN Real Estate Fund AS for the third quarter of 2024 was 8.006 million euros (2023 third quarter: 7.965 million euros). The consolidated sales revenue of EfTEN Real Estate Fund AS for the 9 months of 2024 was 23.924 million euros (2023: 23.714 million euros). The Group’s net rental income in the 9 months of 2024 was a total of 22.203 million euros (2023: 22.201 million euros). The group’s net profit in the same period was 10.104 million euros (2023: 6.880 million euros).

    The consolidated net rental income margin was 93% (2023: 94%) in the 9 months of 2024, so costs directly related to property management (including land tax, insurance, maintenance and improvement costs) and distribution costs constituted 7% (2023: 6%) of sales revenue.

    The volume of the Group’s assets as of 30.09.2024 was 377,723 million euros (31.12.2023: 380.944 million euros), of what the fair value of investment properties made up 96% (31.12.2023: 94%). 

    Investment portfolio

    As of the end of September 2024, the Group owns 34 (31 December 2023: 35) commercial investment properties, with a fair value of EUR 358.577 million as of the balance sheet date (31 December 2023: EUR 357.916 million) and an acquisition cost of EUR 356.156 million (31 December 2023: EUR 354.408 million). In addition, in September 2024, the Group entered into purchase agreements for the Härgmäe and Paemurru logistics centers, making advance payments under the agreements totaling EUR 2.173 million. After the balance sheet date, in October 2024, the Group’s subsidiary signed a real rights contract for the Härgmäe property, paying an additional EUR 8.3 million for the investment property on top of the previously made advance payment (a total of EUR 8.8 million).

    In September 2024, the Group sold the Tähesaju Hortese property for EUR 4.675 million.

    In addition to the investment properties held by the subsidiaries of the fund, the Group also holds a 50% stake in the joint venture that owns the Palace Hotel in Tallinn, with a fair value of EUR 8.543 million as of 30 September 2024 (31 December 2023: EUR 9.0 million).

    In the 9 months of 2024, the group earned a total of 23.043 million euros in rental income, which is 1% more than at the same time in 2023. Rental income increased the most in shopping centers. In the office segment, rental income decreased mainly due to the expiration of the lease agreement with the anchor tenant in the Menulio 11 office building in Vilnius.

    As of 30.09.2024, the vacancy of investment properties belonging to the Group was 3.2% (31.12.2023: 2.6%). The largest vacancy is in the office segment (13.1%), where it takes longer than before to fill vacant rental premises.

    Financing

    During the 9 months of 2024, the Fund’s subsidiaries EfTEN Autokeskus OÜ and EfTEN Jurkalne SIA extended their loan agreements. In the next 12 months, the loan agreements of two subsidiaries of the Group will expire, the balance of which as of 30.09.2024 is 8,025 thousand euros in total. The LTV of the expiring loan agreements is 28.3% and 46.5%, and both investment property have a stable rental cash flow, therefore, according to the management of the Group, there are no obstacles to the extension of the loan agreements.

    The weighted average interest rate of the Group’s loan agreements is 5.35% as of 30.09.2024 (31.12.2023: 5.91%) and the LTV (Loan to Value) is 41% (31.12.2023: 42%). All loan agreements of the Fund’s subsidiaries are linked to a floating interest rate.

    After the balance sheet date, in October 2024, the Group entered into two loan agreements related to the purchase of the Härgmäe logistics center, with a total amount of EUR 7.3 million. This includes a loan agreement for EUR 2.8 million with an interest rate of 2.5% + 6-month EURIBOR, maturing on 31 December 2024, and a loan agreement for EUR 4.5 million with an interest rate of 1.8% + 6-month EURIBOR, maturing on 27 September 2029.

    Information on shares

    The net value of the share of EfTEN Real Estate Fund AS as of 30.09.2024 was 20.15 euros (31.12.2023: 20.21 euros). The net value of the share of EfTEN Real Estate Fund AS decreased by 0.3% in the 9 months of 2024. In April 2024, the Fund paid dividends in the total amount of 10.82 million euros. Without profit distribution, the net value of EfTEN Real Estate AS shares would have increased by 4.6% during the nine months of the year.

    As of 30.09.2024, the Fund has 10,819,796 shares.

    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

      III quarter 9 months
      2024 2023 2024 2023
    € thousands        
    Revenue 8,006 7,965 23,924 23,714
    Cost of services sold -473 -363 -1,232 -1,120
    Gross profit 7,533 7,602 22,692 22,594
             
    Marketing costs -111 -105 -489 -393
    General and administrative expenses -860 -841 -2,679 -2,568
    Profit / loss from the change in the fair value of investment property -415 0 -1,869 -6,182
    Other operating income and expense -41 10 45 23
    Operating profit 6,106 6,666 17,700 13,474
             
    Profit / loss from joint ventures 83 84 -171 -25
    Interest income 51 77 216 97
    Other finance income and expense -2,171 -2,156 -6,644 -5,693
    Profit before income tax 4,069 4,671 11,101 7,853
             
    Income tax expense -215 -236 -997 -973
    Net profit for the reporting period 3,854 4,435 10,104 6,880
    Total consolidated profit for the reporting period 3,854 4,435 10,104 6,880
    Earnings per share        
    – basic 0.36 0.41 0.93 0.64
    – diluted 0.36 0.41 0.93 0.64

    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION

      30.09.2024 31.12.2023
    € thousands    
    ASSETS    
    Cash and cash equivalents 10,637 14,712
    Current deposits 2,142 3,400
    Receivables and accrued income 1,603 2,360
    Prepaid expenses 200 106
    Total current assets 14,582 20,578
         
    Non-current receivables 355 214
    Shares in joint ventures 1,907 2,078
    Investment property 360,750 357,916
    Property, plant, and equipment 129 158
    Total non-current assets 363,141 360,366
    TOTAL ASSETS 377,723 380,944
         
    LIABILITIES AND EQUITY    
    Borrowings 13,809 16,907
    Payables and prepayments 3,110 3,417
    Total current liabilities 16,919 20,324
         
    Borrowings 132,094 130,849
    Other non-current liabilities 1,832 1,790
    Deferred income tax liability 8,896 9,283
    Total non-current liabilities 142,822 141,922
    Total liabilities 159,741 162,246
         
    Share capital 108,198 108,198
    Share premium 84,721 84,721
    Statutory reserve capital 2,799 2,749
    Retained earnings 22,264 23,030
    TOTAL EQUITY 217,982 218,698
    TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY 377,723 380,944

    Marilin Hein
    CFO
    Phone +372 6559 515
    E-mail: marilin.hein@eften.ee

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: TGS Quarterly Dividend

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    OSLO, NORWAY (24 October 2024) – Following the authorization from the Annual General Meeting on 28 June 2024, the Board of TGS ASA has resolved to distribute a quarterly dividend of the NOK equivalent of USD 0.14 per share (NOK 1.53 per share) in Q4 2024.

    Key information relating to the cash dividend:

    • Dividend amount and declared currency: USD 0.14 per share (equivalent to NOK 1.53 per share)
    • Last trading day including right: 30 October 2024
    • Ex-date: 31 October 2024
    • Record date: 1 November 2024
    • Payment date: 14 November 2024
    • Date of approval: 23 October 2024   

    About TGS
    TGS provides advanced data and intelligence to companies active in the energy sector. With leading-edge technology and solutions spanning the entire energy value chain, TGS offers a comprehensive range of insights to help clients make better decisions. Our broad range of products and advanced data technologies, coupled with a global, extensive and diverse energy data library, make TGS a trusted partner in supporting the exploration and production of energy resources worldwide. For further information, please visit www.tgs.com (https://www.tgs.com/).

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Public Policies in Focus as APEC Pushes for Sustainable Finance Solutions Lima, Peru | 23 October 2024 APEC Finance Ministers’ Process

    Source: APEC – Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation

    The growing urgency to address climate change and environmental challenges has propelled sustainable finance into the spotlight as governments, businesses and investors increasingly prioritize sustainability considerations. This shift is transforming the financial landscape and driving capital toward projects that promote sustainability from renewable energy infrastructure to social impact initiatives.

    Against this backdrop, APEC Finance Ministers from across the APEC region convened in Lima on Sunday to discuss strategies for promoting low-carbon, climate-resilient economies. Representatives from international organizations, business leaders, and experts also offered their views on transition to a sustainable economy and the potential for investment it may bring.

    Opening the High-Level Event on Sustainable Finance: Public Policies in Action for Sustainable Development, José Arista Arbildo, Peru’s Minister of Economy and Finance, emphasized the importance of recognizing the interconnection between economic growth, environmental sustainability and social well-being.

    “We are facing unprecedented global environmental challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss and natural resource scarcity,” Minister Arista said. “These challenges not only pose a threat to the environment, but also have significant implications for economic stability and the well-being of the populations of our economies.”

    Sustainable finance, a broad term that refers to investments aimed at generating both financial returns and positive environmental or social outcomes, has seen unprecedented growth. With the global economy increasingly focused on mitigating climate risks and achieving long-term sustainable development, financial institutions are responding by integrating sustainability criteria into their portfolios.

    “The strengthening of economic and financial systems is necessary to ensure their efficient adaptation to new paradigms that will make it possible to promote environmental, social and economic sustainability,” he added. “In this context, public policies are a transformative tool for integrating sustainability into the financial framework of our economies.”

    To successfully embed sustainability into the financial system, economies must embrace a strategic vision that shapes public policies promoting environmentally responsible practices.

    “Strategic planning for this integration is not only an ethical imperative, but also an economic necessity,” Minister Arista explained. “Providing a predictable framework for sustainable finance is one such policy.”

    During the panel discussion, experts called for holistic strategies that harmonize economic and financial activities to foster competitiveness and productivity. They stressed the importance of setting clear, long-term sustainability goals including the importance of governance frameworks and spaces for coordination; and fostering collaboration among stakeholders.

    The conversation also tackled the practical challenges member economies face in implementing sustainable financial practices. It further underscored the critical role of public-private partnerships in overcoming obstacles such as limited funding and regulatory barriers.

    APEC Business Advisory Council Chair, Julia Torreblanca, echoed the sentiment, highlighting the importance of business and public sector collaboration in driving sustainable development.

    “Sustainable finance is a joint endeavor where the private sector plays a critical role,” Torreblanca said. “However, it needs a policy environment that fosters innovation, facilitates sustainable investments and nurtures public-private collaboration.”

    According to experts, the transition to a sustainable economy presents significant investment opportunities despite the challenges. From renewable energy projects to sustainable agriculture, sectors aimed at reducing carbon emissions and promoting social equity are poised for growth. Experts also explored the potential for innovative economic instruments to support sustainability initiatives.

    One key takeaway from the event was the importance of fostering partnerships between governments, businesses and financial institutions. Such collaborations are seen as essential for creating innovative financial instruments and policies that will enhance the implementation of sustainable finance initiatives across the APEC region.

    “Being appropriately prepared to address emerging challenges and seize opportunities along the path to sustainable finance is essential,” Minister Arista concluded. “Public policies are thus a powerful tool that can guide us. If designed and implemented correctly, they can transform our economies and societies.”

    For further details, please contact:

    APEC Media at [email protected]

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Expanding automotive cyber security innovations with VERZEUSE(TM) series

    Source: Panasonic

    Headline: Expanding automotive cyber security innovations with VERZEUSE(TM) series

    Yokohama, Japan, October 24, 2024 – Panasonic Automotive Systems Co., Ltd. has further expanded its series of VERZEUSE , automotive cyber security innovations, to accommodate the security needs in each phase (design, implementation, evaluation, production, and operation) of the entire vehicle lifecycle, from the development to operation (after vehicle shipment).
    This expansion offers efficiency and high quality standardization for security measures throughout the entire vehicle lifecycle by introducing tools to automate cyber security work which has been often performed manually, and to link input and output information in each phase.VERZEUSE for Virtualization Extensions Type-3, a containerized virtualization security innovation to combat cyber attacks on in-vehicle software, has been evaluated highly by car manufacturers as a unique innovation, and has been newly adopted for in-vehicle deployment.
    This newly announced system in the VERZEUSE series will be exhibited at EdgeTech+ 2024*1 to be held from November 20 to 22, 2024.

    ＜Development background＞

    In recent years, the risk of security threats, including cyber attacks targeting cars, has constantly been on the rise alongside the evolution of software-defined vehicles (SDVs) whose functions are enhanced with software and the increase in the number of vehicles connected to networks, known as connected cars. In January 2021, UN Regulation UN-R155 has come into effect, and it has been applied to new vehicles*2 in Japan and Europe since July 2022. In order to comply with UN-R155, there is an urgent need to establish a cyber security system in accordance with ISO/SAE 21434.
    In this environment, the company foresees future demand for implementation of even more comprehensive security measures in each phase of vehicle lifecycle from development to shipment (design, implementation, evaluation, production, and operation) and streamlining of the enormous amount of work needed for vulnerability countermeasures.

    ＜VERZEUSE series features＞

    1. Provides solutions for each phase of the vehicle lifecycle from development to shipment (design, implementation, evaluation, production, and operation).Supports further streamlining and high quality standardization for security measures by linking input/output information in each phase.

    2. VERZEUSE for TARA(Threat Analysis and Risk Assessment): ISO/SAE 21434 compliant threat analysis innovations contributing to substantial reduction of workload by automating threat analysis in the development and design phase.

    3. VERZEUSE for Virtualization Extensions Type-3: Attack detection and protection solution adapting to container technology for in-vehicle software, adopted by car manufactures.

    ＜VERZEUSE series features in detail＞

    1. Provides solutions for each phase of the vehicle lifecycle from development to shipment (design, implementation, evaluation, production, and operation).Supports further streamlining and high quality standardization for security measures by linking input/output information in each phase.

    The VERZEUSE series provides innovative systems for each phase of the entire vehicle lifecycle (design, implementation, evaluation, production, and operation) from development to shipment. The input and output information of each phase can be linked through the Panasonic Group’s database of Threat Intelligence which collects threat information from various industries such as factory automation, home appliances, and IoT devices.
    For example, the analysis result information output from the design phase (1) VERZEUSE for TARA is referenced as input information in the evaluation phase (4) VERZEUSE for Threat Evaluation and Security Test Assistance toolkit and the post-shipment phase (6) VERZEUSE for SIRT. Likewise, the vulnerability assessment results output from the evaluation phase (4) VERZEUSE for Threat Evaluation and Security Test Assistance toolkit is referenced as input information in the post-shipment phase (5) VERZEUSE for SIRT.
    This linkage between phases not only further streamlines security measures, but also helps to consistently manage security information throughout the entire vehicle lifecycle and to maintain security risk management to a high standard.

    2. VERZEUSE for TARA: ISO/SAE 21434 compliant threat analysis innovations contributing to substantial reduction of workload by automating threat analysis in the development and design phase.

    During the early stages of vehicle development, even developers who are not security experts can simply answer a few questionnaires to determine countermeasure requirements based on the characteristics of in-vehicle devices from Panasonic Automotive Systems’ Threat Intelligence, which collates threats, vulnerabilities, and security controls.
    This innovative system has been applied to more than 80 of the company’s in-vehicle products. For example, compared to the conventional manual process of threat analysis, this system has been proven to reduce workload by up to 90%*3 for large-scale products such as navigation systems. Car manufacturers that have used the system have highly evaluated its usefulness, and we have been commissioned to provide multiple consulting projects for risk assessment. For details, please refer to the press release*4.

    3. VERZEUSE for Virtualization Extensions Type-3: Attack detection and protection solution adapting to container technology for in-vehicle software, adopted by car manufactures.

    This in-vehicle software innovation meets the security requirements*5 of next-generation cockpit systems that utilize a virtualization environment and monitors the communication between the software area which has a high risk of being targeted by attackers via the external network connection (e.g. externally connected virtual machine) and the software area which implements essential functions of the vehicle controls and software update functions (e.g., cluster containers). The monitoring function placed in an isolated container can check communications from the secure area to block abnormal communications, protecting critical functions of the vehicle from attacks and improving vehicle safety.
    It is also possible to import optional monitoring function as a plug-in via the security interface. The plug-in management function enables to select the appropriate monitoring function according to the characteristics of the communication. Since there is no need to change the application side when importing, this in-vehicle software can be introduced at low cost, and car manufacturers have decided to adopt it for in-vehicle deployment.

    Supplementary explanation

    VERZEUSE for Threat Evaluation and Security Test Assistance toolkit: Enabling high-quality, efficient security evaluation by users without security expertise.

    This innovative toolkit allows users to efficiently carry out high-quality threat evaluation and security testing, which previously has been often performed manually during the evaluation phase, even without security expertise.The procedures and standards for conducting various security evaluations, such as fuzz testing*10, vulnerability testing, and penetration testing*11, can be comprehensively defined with this toolkit. The defined procedures and standards can be flexibly customized according to evaluation items required for in-vehicle ECU development. In addition, its automated evaluation tool allows for efficient vulnerability assessment.

    *1 EdgeTech+ 2024 https://www.jasa.or.jp/expo/english/*2 In Japan, it applies only to vehicles supporting OTA (Over The Air: a process of updating and changing the software of devices such as smartphones and cars using wireless communication such as data communication).*3 When the company analyzed its navigation system (220 resources, 1250 threat scenarios, and 3230 countermeasure requirements), it reduced the workload from 30 to 3 person-months*4 October 24, 2024, Development of ISO/SAE 21434 compliant threat analysis innovations: VERZEUSE for TARA. https://news.panasonic.com/global/press/en241024-4*5 ST-CSP-18: Requirements Definitions Document for In-vehicle Security Functions Using Software Isolation Technology Ver.1.01 (JASPAR(Japan Automotive Software Platform and Architecture), 2023).*6 January 16, 2023, Virtualization Security Solution Developing VERZEUSE for Virtualization Extensions: Contributing to the Cybersecurity of Next-generation Cockpit Systems https://news.panasonic.com/global/press/en230116-2*7 December 11, 2023, Cyber Security Robustness Innovations, Developed VERZEUSE for Runtime Integrity Checker, Strengthen In-Vehicle Cyber Security Measures https://news.panasonic.com/global/press/en231211-2*8 March 23, 2021, Panasonic and McAfee agree to jointly start building Vehicle SOC for commercialization of Vehicle Security Monitoring Services https://news.panasonic.com/global/press/en210323-2*9 September 9, 2024, Development of Vulnerability Analysis Innovations, VERZEUSE for SIRT https://news.panasonic.com/global/press/en240909-4*10 Fuzzing test: A software testing technique that injects invalid, unexpected, or random data called fuzz into a target product or system to intentionally cause exceptions and detect potential bugs and vulnerabilities.*11 Penetration test: A testing technique that checks for vulnerabilities of computer system connected to a network with hacking attempts using known technologies. It is also called pentest or intrusion testing.

    About VERZEUSE
    Panasonic Automotive Systems Co., Ltd. markets VERZEUSE (https://automotive.panasonic.com/en/technology/cyber-security)*12 cybersecurity technology and services globally. Engineers at Panasonic Automotive Systems who worked together in the development of security technologies in various Panasonic Group products, including TVs, recorders, mobile phones, smartphones, payment terminals, and semiconductors, have turned their expertise toward developing cyber security technologies since 2014, drawing on their individual strengths to apply these technologies to automotive products. Panasonic Automotive Systems helps to ensure the safety and security of automated driving functions and network services to benefit society with technologies underpinned by a wealth of knowledge and experience.

    *12 VERZEUSE was coined by combining the Spanish word “ver” meaning “look” and the god Zeus. The name is meant to inspire the feeling of a protective god of the sky watching over the safety of society.

    Media Contact:

    Corporate Communications Office, Corporate Planning Center, Panasonic Automotive Systems Co., Ltd.e-mail: press-pas@ml.jp.panasonic.com

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Development of ISO/SAE 21434 compliant threat analysis innovations: VERZEUSE(TM) for TARA

    Source: Panasonic

    Headline: Development of ISO/SAE 21434 compliant threat analysis innovations: VERZEUSE(TM) for TARA

    Yokohama, Japan, October 24, 2024 – Panasonic Automotive Systems Co., Ltd. (“Panasonic Automotive Systems”) has developed VERZEUSE for TARA (Threat Analysis and Risk Assessment), an innovative ISO/SAE 21434-compliant threat analysis system that supports rapid development by automating the threat analysis necessary to protect vehicles from cyber-attacks during the early stages of vehicle development.It will be showcased at EdgeTech+ 2024*1 which will take place from November 20 to 22, 2024.
    VERZEUSE for TARA provides comprehensive analysis of cyber security risks for vehicles and in-vehicle devices in the early stages of development and efficiently derives ISO/SAE 21434 compliant threat analysis results. Even developers who are not security experts can simply answer a few questionnaires to determine countermeasure requirements based on the characteristics of in-vehicle devices from Panasonic Automotive Systems’ Threat Intelligence database, which collates threats, vulnerabilities, and security controls.
    This innovative system helps streamline the threat analysis process and has been applied to more than 80 of our company’s in-vehicle products. Compared to the conventional manual process of threat analysis, this system has been proven to reduce workload by up to 90%*2 for large-scale products such as navigation systems. Car manufacturers that have used the system have highly evaluated its usefulness, and we have been commissioned to provide multiple consulting projects for risk assessment.

    *1 EdgeTech+ 2024 https://www.jasa.or.jp/expo/english/*2 When our company analyzed the navigation system (220 assets, 1250 threat scenarios, and 3230 countermeasure requirements), the workload was reduced from 30 to 3 person-months by using this system.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN attends the Opening Ceremony of the 11th AMCA and Related Meetings

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN Dr. Kao Kim Hourn today attended the Opening Ceremony of the 11th AMCA and Related Meetings, where Melaka was announced as the new ASEAN City of Culture for 2024-2026.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN attends the Opening Ceremony of the 11th AMCA and Related Meetings appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: FS promotes HK’s advantages in US

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Financial Secretary Paul Chan delivered a speech and held discussions with President of the National Committee on United States-China Relations Steve Orlins as he continued a visit to New York, the US.

    Mr Chan gave his speech at a lunch co-hosted by the Hong Kong Economic & Trade Office in New York and the Hong Kong Association of New York and attended by around 80 representatives from the business sector and from various institutions, chambers of commerce and think tanks.

    At the lunch, he also discussed topics of interest relating to Hong Kong in US political and business circles with Mr Orlins.

    In his address, Mr Chan spoke about Hong Kong’s economic situation and development strategies. He focused in particular on new initiatives in areas such as finance and innovation and technology, policies and achievements related to attracting businesses and talent, and Hong Kong’s increasingly close co-operation and collaborations with sister cities in the Greater Bay Area.

    Mr Chan stated that the “one country, two systems” arrangement will in place in Hong Kong for the long term. He emphasised that the city will continue to play a unique role as a super-connector and super value-adder, linking the Mainland’s capital markets and investors with those of the global community to create value and opportunities for all.

    He highlighted that Hong Kong maintains its common law system, upholds the rule of law, provides an open, free, and simple low-tax business environment, and protects investors’ rights. Following the implementation of national security legislation, he added, foreign businesses continue to have confidence in Hong Kong, and various international institutions have affirmed the city’s excellent business environment and competitiveness.

    The Financial Secretary highlighted that Hong Kong values the strengthening of relationships with traditional markets and welcomes continued investments from the US business community. He said that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government will continue to present the real situation in Hong Kong through objective facts and data, and will maintain communication and connections with political and business sectors in the US.

    Earlier, Mr Chan had breakfast with local political and business figures, followed by a roundtable meeting with local financial and banking professionals in which he briefed them on Hong Kong’s latest situation and opportunities, and took questions.

    Mr Chan met Acting Consul General of China in New York Ma Xiaoxiao in the afternoon to discuss China-US economic and trade relations.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Webinar: Towards a Regional, Rural and Remote Jobs and Skills Roadmap

    Source: Australia Jobs and Skills

    Webinar: Towards a Regional, Rural and Remote Jobs and Skills Roadmap
    Timothy

    Join Jobs and Skills Australia’s Professor Peter Dawkins AO, Professor Barney Glover AO, Kirsty Leslie, and the Regional Australia Institute CEO Liz Ritchie, as they present the Regional Jobs and Skills Roadmap interim report.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Tourism – Crown Princess Kicks Off 2024/2025 Cruise Season in Picton

    Source: Port Marlborough

    The Crown Princess arrived at Port Marlborough in Picton this week as the first cruise ship of the 2024/2025 season, marking the beginning of what is expected to be another strong season for cruise tourism in Marlborough.
    The ship’s arrival was celebrated with a formal ceremony, where Mayor Nadine Taylor and members of Port Marlborough’s Port & Marine team presented the ship’s captain with a locally made plaque and a gift of Marlborough wine. The plaque is specially designed and handcrafted in Picton from local timber with paua shell inlay, and the Marlborough wine was presented in a locally crafted box. Both gifts are specially chosen to represent the community’s involvement in creating a memorable visitor experience and to showcase the pride we take in sharing the best of Marlborough with our international guests.
    Cruise tourism plays a significant role in Marlborough’s economy, contributing around $500,000 to the local economy per day during each cruise visit. This season, we are expecting a steady flow of visitors, with the total number of ships set to match pre-pandemic levels, supporting local businesses and the wider community. 
    Port Marlborough’s ongoing investment in infrastructure has ensured we can continue to provide exceptional service to cruise lines. Recent improvements include a $50,000 upgrade to the passenger marshalling area for improved safety and efficiency, and a $120,000 investment in an additional gangway setup to enhance the passenger experience during peak times.
    Port Marlborough CEO Rhys Welbourn commented: “The Crown Princess’s maiden call visit is a wonderful way to open the season, and we are honoured to have welcomed the captain and crew to Picton for the first time. Our region is ready for another strong cruise season, with both local businesses and the wider community set to benefit. The economic impact of cruise tourism is undeniable, and it is great to see Marlborough once again thriving as a key destination.
    Environmental sustainability remains a key focus for Port Marlborough, and we are working closely with the cruise industry to balance economic benefits with environmental and community outcomes. This includes working with necessary agencies to ensure that all visiting ships adhere to the highest international maritime environmental standards.”
    Port Marlborough continues to invest in the region’s long-term infrastructure. Alongside cruise-specific improvements, the port has introduced a new $11.5m tugboat, Kaiana, to boost resilience and environmental efficiencies in the marine fleet. Other projects include sealing the remaining unsealed areas of the Shakespeare Bay log yard and installing a water truck for dust suppression, an investment aimed at improving environmental outcomes. Upgrades to the wharf fendering system on Waimahara Wharf, valued at $2 million, are also underway to enhance the port’s resilience and capacity.
    With 48 total berth side calls, including nine maiden visits scheduled for the season, Port Marlborough expects that despite the slight global downturn in Cruise tourism, Picton will maintain its position as a preferred destination for international cruise tourism.
    To enable this important regional trade, and its positive impact for local businesses and community, Port Marlborough is committed to delivering excellent customer service to cruise lines, supporting seamless logistics support, towage, pilotage through the Marlborough Sounds, berthing, and passenger disembarkation. The port also collaborates with shipping agents, tourism operators, New Zealand Customs Service, and MPI to ensure each visit runs smoothly, to support Marlborough’s reputation as a world-class cruise destination.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: $44 million convention and performing arts centre nearing completion

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    A world-class Convention and Performing Arts Centre in Busselton, Western Australia is a step closer to becoming a reality, with construction set to be complete in mid-2025. 

    Once completed, the centre, to be named ‘Saltwater’ will be a multi-purpose facility used for a variety of creative, cultural, community and business events. 

    Key features of the venue include a 640-seat tiered theatre that can be transformed into an open space with a 1000-person standing capacity, perfect for large trade shows and conventions. 

    Equipped with high performance light and sound equipment, the venue is also ideal for concerts and other musical performances. 

    Significant progress on construction has been made to the façade and interior spaces including the foyer, the Saltwater Gallery, the auditorium and back of house areas. 

    Window frames have been installed and glazing is almost complete. Ceilings, internal wall frames and doors are being progressively installed.

    The $44.5 million project is jointly funded, with the Australian Government committing $12.2 million, the City of Busselton Council providing over $30.2 million, Lottery West providing $1.8 million and RIO Tinto contributing the remaining $250,000 toward the project. 

    Saltwater has been named after the Wadandi (Saltwater People), the Traditional Owners of the land (Undalup) on which this new venue is located. 

    The project supported 377 jobs during construction and will create another 15.1 ongoing jobs. 

    For more information visit: www.saltwaterbusselton.com.au  

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

    “Through our funding for the Saltwater precinct, the Australian Government is investing in new community facilities including a multi-purpose hall for large performances, convention centres and business events.

    “This will result in a fantastic new space for world-class entertainment, national conferences and exhibitions, breathing new life into the Busselton’s cultural landscape.”

    Quotes attributable to Senator for Western Australia Louise Pratt:

    “Saltwater will allow an increase in the amount of live music performances and concerts held in the region, which will boost visitation during both the peak and off-peak tourism periods. 

    “It will bring more visitors to Busselton and will be the jewel in the crown of the Busselton Cultural Precinct.” 

    Quotes attributable to Mayor of Busselton Phill Cronin:

    “Saltwater is nearing completion and the countdown to opening has well and truly commenced.

    “Considerable progress has been made and construction is approximately 70 per cent complete.

    “Looking at the construction site from Queen Street, you can see the venue is really starting to take shape now.

    “Window frames have been installed and glazing is almost complete, which contributes to the sense of anticipation that the venue is rapidly moving into the final stage of construction.

    “When I toured the site recently, I could see that significant progress has been made with internal fit out and finishing in key areas including the multi-functional auditorium.

    “You can imagine yourself sitting in the spacious tiered-seat theatre for a show or visualise the area converted to a flat-floor space for a concert.

    “The auditorium will diversify the range of events we can host in Busselton, as it will provide a large enough venue to attract some of Australia’s finest touring theatre productions and concerts to region for the first time in history.

    “Not only has the City secured a diverse range of exciting shows for Saltwater’s first few years of operation, the venue has also been booked for some large national conferences during the off-peak tourism season.

    “On the second floor, you can picture the conference suite set up for a range of different business events and delegates will enjoy beautiful views of the Foreshore Precinct from the alfresco balcony.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Charges – Indecent Acts – Nakara

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Northern Territory Police have charged a youth in relation to indecent acts in Nakara overnight.

    Around 10pm, two female paramedics were called to assist a 14-year-old male youth on a street in Nakara.

    Whilst being conveyed in the back of an ambulance, the youth has allegedly indecently assaulted the paramedics before spitting in the vehicle.

    Police were immediately notified and attended Royal Darwin Hospital and arrested the youth. While being walked outside the hospital, the youth has allegedly damaged a medical vehicle, and while being conveyed to the watchhouse, has allegedly damaged electronic equipment within a police vehicle.

    During processing, the youth has allegedly spat in the direction of multiple police officers and has now been charged with:

    • 2 x Indecent Acts
    • 2 x Damage to property

    He was bailed to appear in court at a later date. 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: CMA launches programme of work to support growth mission

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The CMA announces a new growth-focused work programme from its Microeconomics Unit alongside publication of its third State of Competition report.

    To support the UK government’s growth mission and Industrial Strategy, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has today announced the next programme of work to be conducted by economists in the CMA’s specialist Microeconomics Unit (MU).

    In its recently published Industrial Strategy Green Paper,  the UK government noted the importance of “competitive and innovative business ecosystems, particularly in industries with low market dynamism and high barriers to entry” and the need for “competitive markets to improve efficiency and improve the performance of interconnected value chains, ultimately benefiting consumers through better prices, quality, and choice”.

    The CMA’s new MU Growth Programme will focus on critical drivers and blockers of growth including: how easily or not new technology spreads across the economy; the impact of upstream market power on economic performance and supply chain resilience; and how competition impacts investment.

    This new work programme follows the CMA’s third State of Competition report, also published today.

    Sarah Cardell, Chief Executive of the CMA, said:

    At a time of tremendous opportunity for the UK, effective competition has a key role to play in driving economic growth, investment, and innovation. That’s why the CMA is launching the new MU Growth Programme to help inform the government’s growth mission and Industrial Strategy.

    This follows our latest State of Competition Report, which indicates that levels of effective competition in the UK have weakened slightly over time, although by less than in other economies, and that levels of business dynamism have fallen. The report reinforces the important role of effective competition enforcement to drive greater business dynamism and sustained innovation, productivity, and growth across the economy.

    The CMA’s third State of Competition report is the most comprehensive assessment to date of how competition is working in the UK. Today’s report reinforces the importance of continued action by the CMA and wider UK government to keep markets open, competitive, and dynamic.

    Key findings of the CMA’s third State of Competition report include:

    • Indicators suggesting levels of competition across the economy have weakened slightly over time, but at a slower rate than some other advanced economies. Markups – the difference between the selling price of a good or service and the amount it costs to make have risen by around 10% in Great Britain over the past 25 years. And the increase in markups is greater among firms that already have higher markups.

    • Business dynamism has fallen  across all measures, cementing concerns identified in the 2022 State of Competition report – as referenced in the UK government’s Industrial Strategy Green Paper. Competition between firms jostling for market share spurs growth, but firm entry and exit rates have declined across most sectors. At the top of most industries, the largest firms are more likely to keep their position over multiple years , while new entrants are less successful than they used to be in displacing them.

    • Technology plays an important role in markups. Investment in upfront fixed costs (like research and development, software, and branding) have become increasingly important for firms to compete effectively. As a result, markups in firms making these investments are higher, to cover upfront costs. But where investments in technology create barriers to entry, this can also lead to lower levels of effective competition.

    • In an environment where dynamism is falling, and technological change may be benefitting larger firms, effective competition policy – merger control and the enforcement of competition law – is critical to keep market power in check. Competition may be weaker in some ‘upstream’ sectors, where markups tend to be higher and trade contributes positively to competition – markups are lower in sectors exposed to international trade.

    The CMA’s MU Growth Programme will focus analysis across a range of issues including: 

    • barriers to the spread of new technology and knowledge across the economy, recognised in the report as a potential barrier to dynamism and growth
    • the role of competition in driving and directing productive investment
    • the strength of competition along supply chains, and the impact of ‘upstream’ market power on downstream sectors – reflecting the importance of competitive markets for key inputs to UK economic performance and resilience
    • pro-growth industrial policy interventions, and lessons from past experience and other countries, to help inform the UK government’s Invest 2035

    Notes to editors

    1. The previous State of Competition Report was published in 2022.
    2. Recognising the importance of competition, in 2020 the then Chancellor and the Business Secretary asked the CMA to regularly publish a report assessing the state of competition in the UK economy over the last 25 years, which will continue under the new government.
    3. For media enquiries, contact the CMA press office on 020 3738 6460 or press@cma.gov.uk.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Leave measure to be monitored

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Government will closely monitor the implementation of a new policy giving civil servants who are parents three days of childcare leave per year and review it if necessary, Secretary for the Civil Service Ingrid Yeung said today.

    Ms Yeung made the remarks at a media session after she appeared on a radio programme to talk about initiatives related to the civil service in last week’s Policy Address.

    “We will review how this works out and see if there is room for improvement or whether it really affects our work seriously,” she said. “We cannot tell at the present moment as it is a new measure but we will review this after it has (been) implemented for some time.”

    Asked about the issue of civil service manpower, Ms Yeung said the Government is proceeding at full steam in its recruitment efforts but added that it must be careful in its deployment of manpower.

    “One of our measures, in fact this year in the Policy Address, is to see if technological solutions can be introduced to make better use of existing manpower, whether processes can be streamlined, whether priorities can be changed to make better use of existing manpower.”

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Sydney Airport hosts emergency exercise to test airport’s resilience

    Source: Sydney Airport

    Thursday 24 October 2024

    • Multi-agency emergency management exercise conducted at Sydney Airport
    • Emergency exercise tested the emergency response and flexibility of processes in the event of a major emergency
    • 11 agencies and 200 personnel participating in exercise including NSW Police Force and Fire and Rescue NSW

    Today, Sydney Airport hosted a multi-agency emergency management exercise scenario with 11 agencies and 200 personnel to test the response procedures as part of a simulated flight disaster scenario.

    More than six months’ in the planning, the emergency management exercise scenario involved an international flight on a Boeing 737-800 arriving from South-East Asia with 150 passengers on board which crashed on landing, resulting in numerous injuries and one fatality.

    Sydney Airport joined forces with representatives from NSW Police, Fire and Rescue NSW, NSW Ambulance, NSW Health, the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) and Airservices Australia to test their response plans in the event of a major emergency.

    The Agencies tested their responses and protocols around firefighting and evacuation, rescue and retrieval of trapped and injured passengers, triage and transport for injured passengers, and crash scene management and investigation.

    Sydney Airport CEO Scott Charlton said: “Air travel remains the safest way in the world to travel, and today’s exercise was about putting our response plans into practice, so we are ready in the unlikely event of an emergency.

    “These emergency scenarios provide an invaluable opportunity for our teams to coordinate with agencies and test our response plans in real-time.

    “I want to extend my thanks to all the agencies involved for their participation and collaboration. Together, we are ensuring that Sydney Airport remains safe, secure and well-prepared.”

    Assistant Commissioner Peter McKenna, Central Metropolitan Region NSW Police said: “The purpose of this training is not just to test our emergency response capabilities but the whole process and flow of the emergency plan in a real testing scenario. We use these experiences and skills from the exercise to work more collaboratively in a multi-agency environment and to achieve the operational goal.”

    Acting Area Commander Metro South Peter Cleary Fire and Rescue NSW said: “These types of exercises are vital to ensure our preparedness in the event of a real-life incident. By training side-by-side with our emergency services counterparts, we gain a better understanding of each other’s operating procedures, communications, and equipment in a realistic environment.”

    Sydney Airport hosts an emergency exercise every two-years to test the resilience of the airport’s emergency response plan in partnership with emergency agencies and organisations and is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for everyone.

    Images from today’s Emergency Exercise can be found here.

    Notes to editor

    Sydney Airport emergency scenario 2024:

    • Sydney Airport and emergency management agencies conducted an emergency management field exercise involving a simulated aircraft crash on the airfield
    • More than 200 personnel across multiple agencies tested their response plans
    • The scenario involved the crash landing of an international flight from South-East Asia flight (Boeing 737-800)
    • Under the scenario 150 passengers were on board the flight, 1 is deceased, 39 were transported to hospital and the remaining were treated onsite and released

    Participating agencies and organisations:

    • Sydney Airport
    • Australian Border Force 
    • NSW Police Force 
    • Airservices Australia – Aviation Rescue & Fire Fighting  
    • Fire & Rescue NSW 
    • NSW Ambulance 
    • Airservices Australia – Air Traffic Control 
    • Department of Agriculture
    • Transport for NSW
    • NSW Health
    • NSW State Emergency Service (SES)

    Agencies undertook the following emergency response:

    • Initial firefighting and evacuation  
    • Rescue and retrieval of trapped and injured persons 
    • Triage and transport of injured persons 
    • Initial crash scene management and investigation 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: 231-2024: Urgent Scheduled Service Disruption: Friday 25 October to Saturday 26 October 2024 – Biosecurity Portal

    Source: Australia Government Statements – Agriculture

    25 October 2024

    Who does this notice affect?

    Approved arrangements operators, customs brokers, importers, manned depots, and freight forwarders who will be required to book and manage requests for import inspections using the Biosecurity Portal during this scheduled maintenance window.

    Approved arrangements operators who will be required to view and/or update details of their Approved Arrangement via the Approve Arrangement Management Product (AAMP).

    Approved…

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN Calls for Culture-Driven Development at 11th AMCA Meeting in Melaka, Malaysia

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN Dr. Kao Kim Hourn today participated in the 11th ASEAN Ministers Responsible for Culture and Arts (AMCA) Meeting held in Melaka, Malaysia. Centred on the theme “Bridging Cultures, Building Futures: Unity in Diversity,” Dr. Kao exchanged substantive views with AMCA Ministers, and underlined the pivotal role of culture and the arts as a catalyst to drive social change, and build trust and mutual understanding. Dr. Kao further emphasised the importance of enhancing cooperation in creative economy development and cultural heritage preservation in ASEAN which could serve as crucial building blocks for the development of the ASEAN Community Post-2025 Vision.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN Calls for Culture-Driven Development at 11th AMCA Meeting in Melaka, Malaysia appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Swiss Labour Force Survey (SLFS) – One person in seven changed job in 2023

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Home Affairs

    In Switzerland 14.7% of people who pursued a professional activity changed their job between 2022 and 2023. Mobility is particularly strong among young people and those without children. For 15.1% of employed persons, a change of job led to a higher work-time percentage and for 38.1% of employees, a wage increase. These are some of the results from the ‘Occupational mobility in Switzerland 2023’ publication from the Federal Statistical Office (FSO).

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Underwriting Auction for sale of Government Securities for ₹32,000 crore on October 25, 2024

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    Government of India has announced the sale (re-issue) of Government Securities, as detailed below, through auctions to be held on October 25, 2024.

    As per the extant scheme of underwriting notified on November 14, 2007, the amounts of Minimum Underwriting Commitment (MUC) and the minimum bidding commitment under Additional Competitive Underwriting (ACU) for the underwriting auction, applicable to each Primary Dealer (PD), are as under:

    (₹ crore)
    Security Notified Amount Minimum Underwriting Commitment (MUC) amount per PD Minimum bidding commitment per PD under ACU auction
    6.79% GS 2034 22,000 524 524
    7.46% GS 2073 10,000 239 239

    The underwriting auction will be conducted through multiple price-based method on October 25, 2024 (Friday). PDs may submit their bids for ACU auction electronically through Core Banking Solution (E-Kuber) System between 09:00 A.M. and 09:30 A.M. on the day of underwriting auction.

    The underwriting commission will be credited to the current account of the respective PDs with RBI on the day of issue of securities.

    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    

    Press Release: 2024-2025/1362

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Stalking rates in Australia are still shockingly high – one simple strategy might help

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Troy McEwan, Professor of Clinical and Forensic Psychology, Swinburne University of Technology

    UfaBizPhoto/Shutterstock

    New data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) reveals one in seven adult Australians have been stalked in their lifetime: one in five women and one in 15 men.

    While shocking to many, for those of us who work in the field, there is nothing surprising about these figures.

    The ABS has conducted similar surveys roughly every five years since 2005, which reveal basically the same results each time.

    About 3-4% of women and 1-2% of men are victims of stalking every year.

    These rates are consistent with those reported in research from the United Kingdom and United States, with small variations depending on definition.

    Stalking rates have remained stubbornly consistent despite the same ABS survey showing reductions in the rates of intimate partner violence and general violence over the past decade.

    The reasons for this are unclear, though there are obvious differences in the level of government and community investment in countering intimate partner violence versus awareness of and attention to stalking.

    What exactly is stalking?

    Stalking is a pattern of repeated and unwanted behaviour in which one person pushes their way into the life of another where they have no legitimate right to be, causing the target distress and fear.

    The most common methods are unwanted communication (by phone or digital media) and unwanted contacts (such as following someone or loitering nearby).

    Threats of violence and assault occur in at least a quarter of cases.

    Stalking that persists for more than two weeks is more likely to continue and cause significant harm.

    The impact of stalking

    Victims of persistent stalking have described it as “psychological rape”, with the stalker invading every part of their life.

    The cumulative impact of seemingly never-ending intrusions, and their social and financial toll, is probably why stalking victims report high rates of depression, anxiety and traumatic stress disorders.

    Researchers have estimated being stalked for 14 months costs victims approximately $A140,000, including direct costs from lost work and legal expenses and indirect costs of physical and mental harm.

    Who stalks?

    Most stalking is perpetrated by people who are known to the victim, either as an acquaintance or an ex-partner, with strangers responsible for about 20-25% of stalking.

    Stalking usually starts either because the person feels mistreated and stalks to take revenge or right the wrong, or they stalk to start or enact a relationship with the victim that does not exist. In a small number of cases, stalking has a sexual motivation and can sometimes be part of planning or preparation for a sexual assault.

    Regardless of motivation, most stalking is communicative – the stalker wants the victim to know they exist and to feel like they must respond.

    However, responding to a stalker is not advisable as it usually just adds fuel to the emotional fire that drives them.

    Ex-partners account for just under half of all stalking cases and many more women than men are stalked by an ex.

    Stalking in this context is a type of intimate partner violence and it receives by far the most attention and response.

    Research suggests that intimate partner stalking is more often identified as being perpetrated by former rather than current partners.

    Psychological abuse or coercive control during a relationship might be linked to increased potential for stalking after a break-up.

    Physical violence is much more common in cases of ex-partner stalking, with the ABS survey and earlier research finding half of intimate partner stalkers used physical violence.

    Thankfully, most stalking-related violence does not cause severe physical harm and homicide is extremely rare.

    Although prior stalking is common in ex-partner homicides, recent Victorian research showed that of 5,026 intimate partner violence reports to police involving stalking, only nine involved fatal or near fatal violence in the following 12 months.

    This means the presence of stalking is not a useful risk factor for trying to predict intimate partner homicide.

    Strategies against stalking

    Numerous strategies have been identified to prevent and reduce stalking-related harms. Among those tried largely outside Australia:

    The Victorian Law Reform Commission’s 2022 review of stalking laws recommended adoption of several of these strategies, though to date the state government has committed only to revising the stalking law.

    A simple but powerful strategy

    Stalking is a complicated problem and a comprehensive response needs multi-faceted systemic change that will be costly and take much effort and time.

    Currently, there doesn’t seem to be an appetite in Australia for the work required.

    However, there is one relatively straightforward thing the federal, state and territory governments could do right now to help: establish a national stalking helpline that can provide specialist information, advice and advocacy for all victims.

    Such a helpline was established in the UK in 2010 and has supported more than 65,000 people.

    The helpline provides online and telephone advice to potential stalking victims, including basic risk assessment, advocacy and links to local support services. It also provides advice to mental health professionals and others who are supporting stalking victims.

    The helpline serves all people, regardless of their gender or relationship with the stalker. Nearly half (45%) of its clients are stalked by a stranger or acquaintance, not an ex-partner. This highlights the importance of a specialised stalking response separate to existing services for family and intimate partner violence.

    An Australian equivalent would provide immediate support for victims and a focal point for necessary research and evaluation into what works to stop stalking.

    An Australian national stalking helpline would be a practical, relatively inexpensive and immediately helpful strategy that governments could implement to support the hundreds of thousands of Australians who are stalked every year.

    Troy McEwan has received funding from the Australian Research Council and Victoria Police for stalking-related research.

    – ref. Stalking rates in Australia are still shockingly high – one simple strategy might help – https://theconversation.com/stalking-rates-in-australia-are-still-shockingly-high-one-simple-strategy-might-help-241891

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK supports rugby development in Solomon Islands through SOS Kit Aid

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Rugby Solomon Islands received donation of training kits from UK charity SOS Kit Aid through partnership with the British High Commission in Solomon Islands.

    A group photo with the SOS Aid kit donated to SIRUF.

    SOS Kit Aid is a charity organisation that distributes both new and second-hand rugby kits to children all over the world, with the support of World Rugby. It was founded back in 2001, by rugby dad, John Broadfoot, who, whilst during a trip to Romania witnessed a smiling 8-year-old boy running with the ball under one arm, whilst he used the other arm to hold up his shorts. John wanted to do something about this.

    John knew that his sons had several pairs of boots and other kit lying around at home, and so, to test out the potential, he collected kit from ten schools, to see how much was available on a wider scale. The test was an outstanding success and so SOS Kit Aid was born.

    Handing over the kits to the Solomon Islands Rugby Union Federation (SIRUF), High Commissioner His Excellency Thomas Coward said:

    Rugby teaches children values and teamwork. The Solomon Islanders Rugby Union Federation Get into Rugby programme frames this through its approach to Respect, Integrity, Solidarity, Discipline and Fun. Rugby is a great bridge between our two countries and brings us all together.

    Receiving the kits on SIRUF’s behalf was Secretary of the Executive Board, Angikinui Francis Tekatoha who said rugby has a long history and they have been developing the sport in Solomon Islands. He added:

    Our partnership with the British High Commission supports our Get into Rugby programme, Get into Rugby Plus and Rise Rugby. Our most recent rugby development programme is focusing on women, young people and schools so the gifts you are giving us today will be used in those programmes for training. The donation of kit deepens the partnership between the Rugby Federation and the British High Commission.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Sale of Pel-Air

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    Today the administrators for Rex Airlines have advised the sale of Pel-Air, part of the Rex business, to Helicorp Pty Ltd, part of Toll Aviation. 

    Pel-Air is the contractor supplying ambulance services to Ambulance Victoria and NSW Ambulance, along with specially-modified aircraft for international and domestic aeromedical transfers. 

    This is part of the ongoing administration process and proceeds from the sale will be used by the Rex Group to repay secured debt.

    The Commonwealth continues to work closely with the administrators as Rex’s regional aviation business remains in voluntary administration.

    We have made clear our commitment to support Regional Aviation in Australia and the ongoing viability of key regional services. 

    The Commonwealth continues to guarantee ticket sales throughout the Voluntary Administration and we are pleased that Australians have confidence booking flights as bookings are holding up well.

    I encourage passengers to continue to support Rex’s regional operations.

    My department continues to meet daily with the administrator and we will provide any relevant updates as the voluntary administration period continues.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Global Principles for Effective Border Adjustments

    Source: International Chamber of Commerce

    Headline: Global Principles for Effective Border Adjustments

    We use necessary cookies to make our site work. We’d also like to set optional cookies to optimize site functionality and to give you the most relevant experience. We won’t set optional cookies unless you enable them. Using this tool will set a cookie on your device to remember your preferences.

    The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the subscriber or user, or for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network.

    The technical storage or access is necessary for the legitimate purpose of storing preferences that are not requested by the subscriber or user.

    The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes. The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. Without a subpoena, voluntary compliance on the part of your Internet Service Provider, or additional records from a third party, information stored or retrieved for this purpose alone cannot usually be used to identify you.

    The technical storage or access is required to create user profiles to send advertising, or to track the user on a website or across several websites for similar marketing purposes.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Kenya, Uganda cross-border polio vaccination reaches 6.5 million children

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

    NAIROBI, Kenya, October 24, 2024/APO Group/ —

    Between October 3 and 6, 2024, more than 6.5 million children were vaccinated in a successful synchronized polio campaign between Kenya and Uganda. This cross-border achievement began with a coordinated launch in Bungoma District, Kenya, and Mbale District, Uganda. 

    Both countries have set an exemplary standard in their recent synchronized polio vaccination campaign conducted this week, which focused on high-risk cross-border regions. By conducting these campaigns on the same dates, sharing real-time information, both countries ensured that children under five in these vulnerable areas were reached effectively, reducing the chance of cross-border virus transmission. This joint effort is the result of recent detections in Kenya (with 6 polioviruses in 2024 alone) and Uganda (with 1 virus reported this year through environmental surveillance) and it reflects the broader principle that no child should be left unprotected simply because they live near an international boundary. 

    “Our health workers will vaccinate every child against polio door-to-door. Vaccination has eradicated many diseases in Uganda. We thank all our partners for their support in ensuring a polio-free future. Protect your children from paralysis & vaccinate today”. Said Dr. Daniel Kyabayinze, the Director of Public Health in the Ministry of Health of Uganda.  

    Health authorities have therefore put in place common strategies not only at national levels in Kenya and Uganda, but also regionally, with particular focus on all the 10 districts bordering both countries, covering a total of 772 kilometers. 

    “The virus is spreading fast in the East African region putting our children – particularly aged 5 years or below at the risk of contracting this incurable yet vaccine-preventable disease” – affirmed Dr. Charles Njuguna, the World Health Organization (WHO) country representative in Uganda. 

    This entailed putting in place micro plans: mapping the cross-border communities, migratory routes, cross-border entry/exit points, and transit routes for each of the cross-border facilities. 

    “The Current Polio outbreak in Eastern Africa is fueled by heavy movement of high-risk populations between countries. The decision by the Governments of Kenya and Uganda to conduct two synchronized in October 2-6 and November 6-10 is a laudable effort support by the GPEI partnership”. – confirmed the Global Polio Eradication Initiative Coordinator in Kenya, Charles Korir. 

    The collaborative initiative comes as part of a broader strategy supported by the World Health Organization (WHO) and other GPEI partners, aiming to close immunization gaps and address the persistent challenge of “zero-dose” children—those who have never been vaccinated. Both Kenya and Uganda have recognized that polio eradication cannot be achieved in isolation, and their united front is a powerful example of how regional cooperation can help achieve public health goals. 

    Polio knows no borders, and neither should the fight to eradicate it. Cross-border communities, especially those living in remote or nomadic areas, are at heightened risk of infection due to their mobility and the porous nature of international boundaries. This is why the coordination of vaccination efforts between neighboring countries is critical to achieving comprehensive immunization coverage, so that the risk of paralysis due to the virus can be avoided.  

    As the world moves closer to eradicating polio, this synchronized approach will be key in ensuring that no pockets of the virus remain in these hard-to-reach areas. Kenya and Uganda’s coordinated actions not only protect their own populations but also contribute to global health security by preventing the virus from spreading beyond their borders. 

    This collaboration serves as a model for other countries facing similar challenges. By continuing to prioritize cross-border vaccination synchronization, Kenya, Uganda, and their health partners are leading the way toward a polio-free future for all. 

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Enhancing polio detection with advanced sequencing technology

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

    BRAZZAVILLE, Congo (Republic of the), October 24, 2024/APO Group/ —

    The African region, declared free of indigenous wild poliovirus in August 2020, faces an urgent threat: the intense transmission of type 2 variant poliovirus (cVDPV2). This year alone, 290 poliovirus detections have been reported in 23 African countries.

    As countries ramp up vaccination efforts to protect children against the virus, one of the most critical components of the response is early and accurate detection. To enhance the effort, the World Health Organization Regional Office for Africa (WHO AFRO), together with the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US CDC) and the Gates Foundation, is focusing on equipping and training laboratories across Africa with an innovative advanced sanger sequencing technology, a crucial method in investigating new regions in the poliovirus genome.

    The poliovirus has a genome that is 7.5 kilobases long (a kilobase, or kb, is a unit of measurement used to describe the length of DNA). This genome has one main part that is used to create four proteins, named VP1 to VP4. The VP1 protein is important for how the virus attaches to cells and has been used to identify and track the spread of poliovirus.

    In 2024, WHO AFRO initiated targeted training on Advanced Sanger Sequencing training aimed at diversifying the diagnostic windows for polioviruses which will eventually reduce turn-around-time of poliovirus detection. These trainings are essential to equip lab personnel with the skills to operate advanced sequencing technologies and provide timely results for public health decision-makers.

    Sequencing allows laboratories to pinpoint genetic changes in poliovirus strains, providing critical data for tracking transmission pathways and understanding viral evolution. The technology offers a level of precision that helps identify mutations in real-time, making it possible to detect emerging threats swiftly. This technique has hitherto been limited to VP1 region of the gene but after this training laboratories will be able to use the entire five prime untranslated region and the remaining VP4/2 of the poliovirus gene.

    “Expanding our sequencing window to the other regions of the poliovirus, alongside the VP1 region, enhanced our ability to classify cases more accurately – bringing us one step closer to polio eradication”, says Irene Turyahabwe, participant from Uganda.

    “Advanced sequencing will not only open different diagnostic windows for efficient and rapid diagnosis but will also provide much needed evidence for the success of specific vaccination campaigns essential for ongoing polio eradication efforts. The data gathered through this technology informs decision-making, ensuring that the right public health interventions are deployed in time to prevent further spread of the virus” says Dr Jude Kfutwah, coordinator of the Regional Polio Laboratory Network at the WHO Regional Office for Africa. 

    South Africa hosted the first round of the training, where laboratory personnel received hands-on experience in Advanced Sanger Sequencing techniques. The training, under the umbrella of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI), is part of a broader initiative to ensure that countries have the necessary capacity to detect polioviruses quickly and accurately, without delays that could hinder response efforts.

    Following South Africa’s success, WHO plans to expand the training to key countries across the continent. Algeria, Central African Republic and Madagascar are among the next in line, where national laboratories will benefit from this knowledge transfer. This regional expansion ensures that multiple countries are better prepared to contribute to Africa’s polio eradication journey.

    In addition, WHO is supporting 16 polio laboratories in the African region who are providing environmental surveillance support, testing for poliovirus in stool and wastewater samples to track geographic patterns of spread.

    With laboratories across Africa enhancing their capacity to process samples quickly, there is an added layer of regional cooperation that strengthens the entire surveillance network. This collaborative spirit is vital in eradicating polio once and for all.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK Strengthens Cyber Partnership with Singapore

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The UK and Singapore deepen cyber security collaboration, building on their Strategic Partnership.

    MOD Crown Copyright

    The UK recently welcomed Brigadier Edward Chen, Defence Cyber Chief of the Singapore Digital and Intelligence Service (DIS), in a visit focused on strengthening the UK-Singapore relationship in the cyber domain. During his visit, the Singaporean Defence Cyber Chief attended the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) Cyber Power Workshop and participated in bilateral engagements with key UK stakeholders, including the Ministry of Defence, the National Cyber Security Centre, and industry leaders.  

    This visit took place ahead of the Singapore International Cyber Week, reflecting the UK’s commitment to international collaboration in the cyber domain, as emphasised by Deputy Commander Strategic Command, Lt Gen Tom Copinger-Symes:

    External relationships are vital in this domain which spans national and geographic boundaries. 

    MOD Crown Copyright

    The UK and Singapore are global leaders in cyber and electromagnetic capabilities, working closely with international partners to promote a secure and stable digital environment. This visit built on the UK-Singapore Strategic Partnership established last September, highlighting the commitment of both nations to deepen collaboration in areas of mutual interest, including cyber and emerging technologies. The partnership with Singapore is crucial to addressing shared cyber challenges and ensuring a resilient digital future.

    MOD Crown Copyright

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Why Woolworths workers can’t sleep at night: inside the supermarket giant’s controversial ‘Framework’

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lauren Kate Kelly, PhD Candidate, ARC Centre of Excellence for Automated Decision-Making and Society, RMIT University

    In early 2024, Woolworths introduced a new worker performance management program across warehouses run by the company’s distribution arm, Primary Connect.

    Under the program, known as the Coaching and Productivity Framework or simply “the Framework”, workers say they face potential disciplinary action if they fail to achieve 100% adherence to a speed-related metric known as pick rates. This represents a sharp break from previous approaches in which a pick rate of 100% was a non-enforceable goal, rather than a basic requirement.

    A Primary Connect spokesperson told The Conversation the Framework is more flexible, ensuring “a fair approach to the standards is applied to any personal circumstances or abilities”, with exemptions “for when a team member is unable to perform to standards, including pregnancy, disability or injury”.

    Workers say the new system creates huge stress and leads to unsafe work practices.

    An outline of the Woolworths Coaching and Productivity Framework.
    Woolworths

    ‘Scientific management’

    Although pick rates are common across warehousing, enforcing 100% compliance is highly unusual. In a memo to warehouse staff, Woolworths justified the strict enforcement of pick rates by claiming they are based on “engineered standards”, which are “the times that a trained and competent person should take to complete a set task safely using the ‘agreed method’ for that task”.

    Engineered standards (or engineered labour standards) are also widespread in the warehousing industry. Developed in the early 20th century by US management consultants, engineered standards follow the stopwatch studies and time-and-motion methodologies of Frederick Winslow Taylor, the pioneer of “scientific management”.

    To this day, engineered standards may be developed by “putting the stopwatch” on workers to record and standardise the time taken to perform a particular task. These data sets may be used to develop and justify pick rates.

    Turning workers into data points

    The use of engineered standards integrates workers into Woolworths’ ongoing program of increased automation and surveillance across its business.

    Much like inventory, workers’ bodies also become a data point to be monitored in terms of speed and movement. Engineered standards encode the assumption that human labour can be rationalised in the same way as the activity of a machine.

    Engineered standards promise the ability to control the output of workers at every moment. In practice, the application of engineered standards is often flawed and inaccurate.

    Regardless of accuracy, engineered standards and other algorithmic systems may have other benefits for management, providing a veneer of technological objectivity for decision-making.

    Confusing and inconsistent

    Through research for my PhD and my work with the United Workers Union, I have heard many concerns from workers subjected to the Framework.

    One common concern is that, due to the algorithmic nature of the Framework, the pick rate is opaque. In practice, workers do not know what 100% compliance means, so they do not even know what is expected of them.

    Workers report that rates seem to change and are applied inconsistently across different departments.

    The psychological impact has been significant. Workers have reported lying awake at night and experiencing heightened anxiety of job loss following the introduction of the Framework.

    One worker told me:

    I can’t sleep thinking about what would happen if I lost my job because I didn’t meet the standards a few times and my average wasn’t high enough.

    Another said:

    I frequently go to sleep and dream of picking at work. I find myself thinking of work at home and dreaming of work when I’m sleeping. I’m constantly on edge whenever I see a team leader, thinking I’ve done something wrong.

    And a third:

    I have some personal issues at home with my marriage and I’m laying awake thinking about my pick rate and if I will have a job tomorrow.

    Speed and safety

    Workers have also reported they feel compelled to prioritise speed over safety to meet the pick rate, or risk losing their job. At the same time, failure to work safely can also result in disciplinary action, injury or worse.

    Failure to meet the pick rate may result in a “tap on the shoulder” from management. This may be followed by notification that “coaching” will commence as part of a 12-week performance management program.

    Coaching consists of working under the close supervision of a manager who is tasked with observing the worker’s movements and appraising their speed against a company checklist.

    In the words of another worker:

    They are watching you, following you around with a clipboard, piece of paper and a pen. Writing stuff down behind you. It feels degrading.

    Monitoring ‘gap times’ such as toilet breaks

    Distribution centres are complex and dynamic environments. Congestion builds in aisles, equipment glitches and breaks, pallets spill, and batteries go flat.

    Woolworths claims the Framework takes into account “gap times”, which include reasonable periods of unavoidable delay, worker fatigue, rest breaks and so on.

    Gap times refer to any time during a shift when a worker is not actively on task. Workers report that time pressures have resulted in breaks being skipped, and safety measures disregarded, to meet pick rate targets and avoid disciplinary action.

    A question of control

    Following widespread worker disputes, including one filed with the Fair Work Commission in April, the Framework has been temporarily placed on pause. If reinstated, it would take effect at 15 distribution centres across the country, impacting about 8,000 permanent workers and, indirectly or directly, several thousand casual labour-hire workers.

    Woolworths team members represented by the United Workers Union are currently bargaining for a new enterprise agreement. Abolition of the Framework and related disciplinary action is a key demand of the union.

    In a statement to The Conversation, a Primary Connect spokesperson said:

    We have listened to the feedback from the union on the Framework, and will engage our teams in the distribution centres and the union in due course. As the country’s largest private sector employer, we are committed to ensuring that our workplaces are safe and productive for our teams and customers.

    Beyond Woolworths, the contest over pick rates raises a broader question: to what extent should an employer be able to dictate the speed of work?

    Clearly, an employer can assign the duration of a shift and ask workers to perform their role to the best of their abilities, but should workers retain the right to control the speed at which they move their own body?

    The future of the Woolworths Framework may have widespread implications for working life in Australia.

    Lauren Kate Kelly receives funding from the Australian Research Council (ARC) and the ARC Centre of Excellence for Automated Decision-Making and Society. She is affiliated with the United Workers Union, which represents workers across the supermarket supply chain.

    – ref. Why Woolworths workers can’t sleep at night: inside the supermarket giant’s controversial ‘Framework’ – https://theconversation.com/why-woolworths-workers-cant-sleep-at-night-inside-the-supermarket-giants-controversial-framework-242015

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Appeal to trace relatives of the late Elizabeth Gwynne

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    Elizabeth Gwynne, who was 64, had been living in the Merry Hill area of the city.

    Anyone who is related to Mrs Gwynne, or has any information which may help trace her relatives, is asked to please call Protection and Funerals Officer Donna Hulme on 07971 317893 or email her via donna.hulme3@wolverhampton.gov.uk as soon as possible.
     

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI China: Bridge girder erection machine enhances railway construction in SW China

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

    Bridge girder erection machine enhances railway construction in SW China

    Updated: October 24, 2024 14:52 Xinhua

    Meet China’s bridge-building robot! A 900-tonne level bridge girder erection machine has been put into use to build a bridge of the Chongqing-Wanzhou high-speed railway in southwest China.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China, Japan hold high-level consultations on maritime affairs

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

    TOKYO, Oct. 24 — China and Japan held the 17th round of high-level consultations on maritime affairs in Tokyo on Wednesday, exchanging in-depth views on maritime affairs and agreeing to make the East China Sea a sea of peace, cooperation and friendship.

    Director-General of the Department of Boundary and Ocean Affairs of the Chinese Foreign Ministry Hong Liang and Director-General of the Asian and Oceanian Affairs Bureau of the Japanese Foreign Ministry Hiroyuki Namazu co-chaired the 17th round of consultations of the High-level Consultation Mechanism on Maritime Affairs between China and Japan. Representatives of the departments related to maritime affairs from the two countries were present.

    This round of consultations saw a plenary meeting and three working group meetings on maritime defense, maritime law enforcement and security, and the marine economy.

    China elaborated on its position on issues related to the East China Sea, Diaoyu Dao, the South China Sea, and the Taiwan Straits, among others, and urged Japan to respect China’s territory, sovereignty and security concerns, and to take practical actions to promote the improvement and development of China-Japan relations.

    The two sides agreed to earnestly implement the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, continue to maintain close communication on maritime affairs, properly manage and control differences, strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation, and make positive efforts to build the East China Sea into a sea of peace, cooperation and friendship.

    The two sides agreed in principle to hold the 18th round of consultations of the High-level Consultation Mechanism on Maritime Affairs between China and Japan in China next year.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Scientific payloads of China’s first reusable, returnable satellite delivered to users

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

    Scientific payloads of China’s first reusable, returnable satellite delivered to users

    BEIJING, Oct. 24 — The scientific payloads for space breeding and other sci-tech experiments carried by China’s first reusable and returnable satellite, Shijian-19, were delivered to Chinese and foreign users on Thursday.

    At the payloads handover ceremony held by the China National Space Administration (CNSA) in Beijing on Thursday, the CNSA and the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation signed payload delivery certificates with domestic and international users, including those from Thailand and Pakistan.

    Bian Zhigang, deputy head of CNSA, said the Shijian-19 mission fully leverages the advantages of the new generation retrievable space experiment platform, conducting space breeding experiments of about 1,000 species of germplasm resources, providing crucial support for the innovation of germplasm resources in China. The mission has also offered a valuable in-orbit validation opportunity for domestically produced components and raw materials.

    The Shijian-19 satellite was sent into orbit from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China on Sept. 27, and was successfully retrieved at the Dongfeng landing site in north China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region on Oct. 11.

    MIL OSI China News –