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  • MIL-OSI Submissions: WHO – Ten additional countries in the Western Pacific Regionpledge to invest in WHO

    Source: World Health Organization (WHO)

    MANILA, 23 October 2024 – In a historic show of support, 10 more countries in the Western Pacific Region pledged to provide an additional US$ 12.1 million to the World Health Organization (WHO) through its first-ever Investment Round. This comes in addition to US$ 18 million announced by Singapore in May. The WHO Investment Round aims to secure predictable, flexible, and resilient resources for WHO’s core work over the next four years.

    The seventy-fifth session of the WHO Regional Committee for the Western Pacific began on Monday with Member States formally endorsing the new regional vision Weaving Health for Families, Communities and Societies in the Western Pacific Region (2025-2029): Working together to improve health, well-being and save lives.

    The financial commitments were made during a Special Event on the Investment Round at the Regional Committee today. Governments and partners from across Asia and the Pacific in attendance emphasized the importance of ensuring WHO has robust financing to implement its global strategy for the 2025-2028 period, the 14th General Programme of Work, which was approved by Member States at the World Health Assembly in May 2024.

    The Government of the Philippines co-hosted the Special Event and made a historic pledge of US$ 10 million to the WHO Investment Round. During his remarks, Secretary of Health Dr Teodoro J. Herbosa of the Philippines said “A robust, reliable, and sustainably funded WHO is crucial for the Western Pacific Region and the world to address inequities and inequalities in health which were amplified by the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, we have taken a significant first step towards a future where health and well-being are accessible to everyone.”

    Malaysia also demonstrated its support of WHO’s work through a US$ 2 million pledge towards the Investment Round.

    In a powerful symbol of Pacific leaders’ commitment to health and WHO’s pivotal role in supporting them, eight Pacific Island countries pledged to double their funding contributions to WHO for 2025.  First-ever voluntary contributions to WHO were announced today by Papua New Guinea, and Cook Islands, Palau, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu.

    Speaking to the Regional Committee through a live video connection on Tuesday morning, WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus noted that to support the implementation of the Organization’s new global strategy, “we have launched the first WHO Investment Round, which aims to mobilize the sustainable and predictable resources we need to do our work. Thank you all for your commitment to promoting, providing and protecting health, for all people of the Western Pacific.”

    During the Investment Round Special Event, WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific, Dr Saia Ma’u Piukala, thanked Member States and partners for their pledges, which will enable the Organization to support countries more effectively.

    “The commitments made today are truly historic,” Dr Piukala said. “They include a doubling of financial contributions from several of our small island developing states, and significant sums from the Philippines and Malaysia.

    “It’s a sign of governments’ confidence in WHO as their partner in health, and a recognition of the need for sustainable financing in order to deliver on the vision of weaving health for families, communities and societies in the Western Pacific,” he said.

    Prior to the meeting, WHO launched the document All for Health, Health for All: WHO Investment Case 2025-28 Western Pacific to capture the impact of a fully-funded Western Pacific Region over the next four years.

    Partners joined Members States in statements of support for WHO. Organizations including the Asian Development Bank, the Institute of Philanthropy and Temasek Trust committed to working closely with WHO during the next four years. Earlier this month, the Institute of Philanthropy made a US$10 million pledge to the Investment Round during the World Health Summit in Berlin, following a $1.2 million pledge in May at the World Health Assembly. The Temasek Foundation also pledged $10 million on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in September.

    “We are off to a great start for the Investment Round in the Western Pacific based on today’s event,” said Dr Piukala. “Today we also heard that we should expect to see more countries and partners stepping up to provide additional resources in the coming weeks.”

    With a fully and sustainably funded operating budget for 2025–2028, WHO will be better able to tackle emergencies and outbreaks that jeopardize health security and threaten lives, reduce the burden of both infectious diseases and noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), and continue working to improve the health and well-being of everyone, especially the most vulnerable.

    Launched at the World Health Assembly in May 2024, the Investment Round aims to mobilize contributions that are flexible and thereby aligned with WHO’s strategy as approved by its Member States, predictably provided at the start of the four-year programme cycle to enable strategic decision-making, and resilient in that they will derive from a larger, more diverse set of donors.

    WHO’s Investment Round will culminate at the G20 leaders’ summit chaired by Brazilian President Lula da Silva next month.

    Notes:

    The seventy-fifth session of the Western Pacific Regional Committee began on 21 October and runs through 25 October at WHO’s Regional Office for the Western Pacific in Manila, Philippines. The agenda (https://cdn.who.int/media/docs/default-source/wpro—documents/regional-committee/session-75/wpr-rc75-01-provisional-agenda.pdf ) and timetable (https://cdn.who.int/media/docs/default-source/wpro—documents/regional-committee/session-75/tentative-timetable_rc75.pdf ) are available online. A livestream of proceedings, all other official documents, as well as fact sheets and videos on the issues to be addressed can be accessed here. https://www.who.int/westernpacific/about/governance/regional-committee/session-75

    Working with 194 Member States across six regions, WHO is the United Nations specialized agency responsible for public health. Each WHO region has a regional committee – a governing body composed of ministers of health and senior officials from Member States. Each regional committee meets annually to agree on health actions and to chart priorities for WHO’s work.

    The WHO Western Pacific Region is home to more than 1.9 billion people across 37 countries and areas: American Samoa (United States of America), Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, China, Cook Islands, Fiji, French Polynesia (France), Guam (United States of America), Hong Kong SAR (China), Japan, Kiribati, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Macao SAR (China), Malaysia, the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, Mongolia, Nauru, New Caledonia (France), New Zealand, Niue, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (United States of America), Palau, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, Pitcairn Islands (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland), the Republic of Korea, Samoa, Singapore, Solomon Islands, Tokelau, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu and Viet Nam, Wallis and Futuna (France).

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs) – 23 October 2024

    Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)

    Watch PMQs with British Sign Language (BSL) –

    Prime Minister’s Question Time, also referred to as PMQs, takes place every Wednesday the House of Commons sits. It gives MPs the chance to put questions to the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer MP, or a nominated minister.

    In most cases, the session starts with a routine ‘open question’ from an MP about the Prime Minister’s engagements. MPs can then ask supplementary questions on any subject, often one of current political significance.

    The Leader of the Opposition, Rishi Sunak MP, asks six questions and the leader of the second largest opposition party asks two. If another minister takes the place of the Prime Minister, opposition parties will usually nominate a shadow minister to ask the questions.

    Want to find out more about what’s happening in the House of Commons this week? Follow the House of Commons on:

    Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/HouseofCommons
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ukhouseofcommons
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ukhouseofcommons

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LWlUy6vEdWo

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK Prime Minister’s Questions with British Sign Language (BSL) – 23 October 2024

    Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)

    Prime Minister’s Question Time, also referred to as PMQs, takes place every Wednesday the House of Commons sits. It gives MPs the chance to put questions to the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer MP, or a nominated minister.

    In most cases, the session starts with a routine ‘open question’ from an MP about the Prime Minister’s engagements. MPs can then ask supplementary questions on any subject, often one of current political significance.

    The Leader of the Opposition, Rishi Sunak MP, asks six questions and the leader of the second largest opposition party asks two. If another minister takes the place of the Prime Minister, opposition parties will usually nominate a shadow minister to ask the questions.

    Want to find out more about what’s happening in the House of Commons this week? Follow the House of Commons on:

    Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/HouseofCommons
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ukhouseofcommons
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ukhouseofcommons

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eqvw5q64AtM

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Emergency beds for people experiencing rough sleeping this winter

    Source: City of Oxford

    As the nights get colder and longer, Oxford City Council has confirmed how it will offer emergency beds to people experiencing rough sleeping this winter.  

    The Council activates its severe weather emergency protocol (SWEP) during freezing weather.  

    While the Council commissions St Mungo’s to deliver an intensive outreach service helping people off the streets all year round, not everyone is usually entitled to support – for example, people from abroad with no right to claim benefits or housing. 

    Other people experiencing rough sleeping may have previously refused all offers of support or have returned to the streets even though they have accommodation available to them.  

    SWEP is emergency accommodation for anyone experiencing rough sleeping. 

    The Council will activate SWEP on every night the Met Office forecasts freezing overnight temperatures. It will also use its discretion to open emergency beds in other severe weather conditions. 

    These can include snow on the ground, sub-zero ‘feels like’ temperatures or a warmer night in the middle of a prolonged freezing spell.  

    SWEP provision 

    Working with a range of partners, the Council has secured a minimum of 41 bed spaces in Oxford.  

    SWEP was activated on 24 nights last winter, providing 534 stays for 104 different people. The number of people accessing a SWEP bed on any one night ranged from 15 to 34.  

    While weekly estimates for the number of people sleeping rough are now typically in the mid-40s, not everyone will accept the offer of an emergency bed and others will already have accommodation available to them.  

    The Council therefore believes there will be enough SWEP beds to meet likely demand. Contingency plans are in place to provide more spaces if the need arises.  

    Accessing SWEP  

    The St Mungo’s outreach and assessment team will allocate SWEP beds to people experiencing rough sleeping during the day – letting them know where and when they need to go.  

    People who have not been allocated a SWEP bed in advance will be able to present at O’Hanlon House between 11 pm and midnight.  

    One of the SWEP venues is suitable for people with dogs and St Mungo’s can also arrange free kennels if necessary. Kennels must be arranged in advance and are not available on the night.  

    Find out more about how SWEP works on the Council website 

    Comment  

    Councillor Linda Smith, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities, said: “Nobody should have to sleep rough in Oxford and SWEP provides a lifeline for people at risk during freezing winter weather. SWEP also gives us another chance to offer the support they might need to leave the streets behind for good.  

    “SWEP relies on people in Oxford’s homelessness services stepping up and taking on extra shifts on top of their day jobs, and I’m grateful for everyone who will help us deliver this vital service.  

    “St Mungo’s works intensively with people on the streets and will allocate SWEP rooms during the day, telling them how to access the service and where and when to go. If you are concerned about someone experiencing rough sleeping, please contact the outreach team.”   

    How to report concern about someone experiencing rough sleeping  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Housing maintenance and improvement

    Source: Scotland – City of Dundee

    A SERIES of major policy documents aimed at protecting and enhancing public housing in Dundee are set to be discussed by councillors.
    Updated versions of Dundee City Council’s empty homes strategy, five-year strategic investment plan and the annual review of rents will be tabled next week.
    Mark Flynn, convener of the neighbourhood regeneration, housing and estate management committee said: “To be able to deliver strong communities where people feel empowered, safe, and proud to live and where the root causes of poverty are being tackled needs a good supply of warm, easy to heat homes.
    “But these things do not appear from nowhere, they need detailed, well thought out and realistic documents like these to put down in black and white what we need to do, how we are going to do it and how long it is going to take to get where we want to be.”
    Lynne Short, the committee’s deputy convener added: “The framework that these policies and others provides is crucial not only to delivering on our goals, but also in allowing people to see what progress is being made towards them over time.”
    The new 22-page empty homes strategy aims to build on the 132 empty homes already brought back into use by using the 1,067 unoccupied houses in the city to provide accommodation. This figure is put into context in the report which notes that there were 1,430 new homeless applications made to Dundee City Council in 2022/2023.
    Empty homes are classified as dwellings that have been empty for six months or more and are liable for council tax. The most recent figures published by the Scottish Government in September 2023, show that almost 75% of the long-term empty properties in Dundee are privately owned.
    It has been developed through a clear understanding of the impact of empty homes across Dundee on neighbourhoods, communities, homeowners and residents.
    The Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) 2025-2030 sets out Dundee’s affordable housing priorities for the next five years and aims to ensure that the city continues to successfully deliver new-build affordable housing for rent.
    It reveals that 286 new build social homes are expected to be completed before spring 2027, with more than 500 more “in the pipeline” with start dates between 2025 and 2028.
    According to the SHIP. the council will work with partners to ensure that all new build properties constructed within the investment programme meet or surpass the current building regulations.
    In addition, where possible energy efficiency measures such as insulation, solar energy, wind power or other suitable measures will be integrated into the construction to help reduce carbon emissions, address fuel poverty and ensure that tenants live in warm, affordable homes.
    It also includes additional accessible housing for adults with learning, physical or mental health disabilities, to allow them to receive the appropriate care and support that they need within their local community.
    Members of the neighbourhood regeneration, housing and estate management committee will be asked to approve discussions with tenants on annual increases ranging from an average of £3.92 to £4.36 per week.
    Council house tenants could be consulted on three proposed rent increases between 4.5% and 5% if councillors back the move.
    During the two-month consultation as many tenants as possible will be encouraged to share their views on the three options before a report is prepared and considered in January.
    Cllr Flynn added: “Every year we try to offer tenants a balanced choice between services remaining at the same high standard they have now or giving the council additional resources to spend more on the things tenants have told us that they want, such as tackling anti-social behaviour.”
    As well as using as many ways as possible of gauging tents’ opinions including face to face engagement, social media and continued collaboration with Dundee Federation of Tenants Association and registered tenants’ organisations; information will also be made available about the support services available for people affected by the cost-of-living crisis.
    The neighbourhood resources, housing and estate management committee meets on Monday (October 28).

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Students, postgraduates and young scientists discussed current issues of modern construction at a conference at SPbGASU

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Information Systems and Technologies Section

    The LXXVII National Scientific and Practical Conference of Students, Postgraduates and Young Scientists “Current Issues of Modern Construction” was held at the Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering from October 15 to 18. The conference brought together more than 1,000 participants and listeners not only from SPbGASU, but also from Moscow State University of Geodesy and Cartography, National Research Moscow State University of Civil Engineering, Chuvash State University named after I.N. Ulyanov, Saint Petersburg State University of Railway Engineering named after Emperor Alexander I, Novosibirsk State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Donbass National Academy of Civil Engineering and Architecture and other universities, giving them the opportunity to exchange ideas and test scientific results.

    The topics of the reports covered a wide range of issues in modern construction, including those related to computer science, information systems and technologies, technosphere safety, economic security, legal regulation of urban development and transport, and many others. The work was organized within 31 sections.

    Several reports at the architectural design section were devoted to the topic of Arctic development. Nikita Milov, a second-year master’s student at the SPbGASU Faculty of Architecture, presented a report entitled “Functional Zoning of a Site and Planning Structure of a Marine Terminal in the Northern Conditions (the City of Kandalaksha)” (supervised by Aleksey Mikhalychev, Associate Professor of the Department of Architectural Design).

    According to the author of the report, Kandalaksha can become a cultural and tourist hub for water routes of river and sea cruise transport. Nikita proposed breathing new life into this city by creating a new sea passenger terminal in it. It could include hotels, exhibition transformable spaces, and office centers.

    Museum complexes are necessary in the cities of the Far North, says Artem Martynenko, a second-year master’s student at the Faculty of Architecture of our university (his academic supervisor is Associate Professor of the Department of Architectural Design Sergey Ivanov). According to Artem, the development of territories located in the Arctic zone is one of the main tasks of the Russian Federation. To do this, it is necessary to create a pleasant, well-maintained environment, including for cultural leisure. It is also worth considering the modern policy aimed at patriotic education of youth and awakening interest in studying the history and culture of our country. Given these factors, the design and construction of museum complexes is becoming an urgent task for architects. Artem formulated the principles of designing museum complexes beyond the Arctic Circle: multifunctionality, which allows the complex to gather the maximum number of consumers and remain in demand all year round, taking into account climatic features when choosing design solutions, etc.

    Anzhelika Ivanikhina, a fourth-year bachelor’s student at the Faculty of Architecture (supervised by Milena Zolotareva, Deputy Dean for Research, Associate Professor of the Department of History and Theory of Architecture), spoke about the algorithm for using generative neural networks to form an architectural concept using the example of creating a glamping site at the section on the history and theory of architecture. The audience learned how work on one of the projects was carried out in the workshop where the student works. According to Anzhelika, there is nothing wrong with using generative neural networks. You need to start with analyzing the territory and the initial data; then you should develop a functional plan and functional zoning, determine the concept of a specific part of the general plan and develop sketches. After that, you can start creating a prototype for the neural network, then analyze and adjust it. The final stage will be color correction of the result, post-processing in editing programs.

    The architectural and spatial features of Omsk, using the central part of the city as an example, became the topic of the report by the second-year undergraduate student of the Faculty of Architecture Arina Peteshova (supervised by Milena Zolotareva). Arina believes that the central part of Omsk has unique architectural and spatial characteristics that can be successfully used for the further development of the city. It is necessary to optimize the planning of the urban environment, pay attention to the development of integration solutions for historical and modern buildings, and study the impact of new architectural projects on the existing urban structure.

    The creation of tools for processing data on the working hours of the organization’s employees is being carried out by a second-year master’s student of the Faculty of Engineering Ecology and Urban Economy Egor Abramov under the supervision of the acting head of the Department of Information Systems and Technologies Olga Yarkova. Egor gave a report on the topic of his research at the section of information systems and technologies. The student analyzed the information environment of the enterprise, formulated the requirements for the developed tools, and determined the methods and technologies for implementation. The researcher plans to develop an application for solving work tasks and performing additional functions.

    The conference “Current Problems of Modern Construction” was held within the framework of a subsidy from the federal budget to educational institutions of higher education for the implementation of events aimed at supporting student scientific communities No. 075-15-2024-854. Scientific materials of the conference will be published in a collection of materials indexed in the Russian Science Citation Index.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Import expo in Shanghai to promote high-level opening up: official

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

    BEIJING, Oct. 23 — The 7th China International Import Expo (CIIE), scheduled to be held in Shanghai from Nov. 5 to 10, will play its role as a platform to promote high-level opening up, an official said Wednesday.

    The CIIE serves to showcase China’s major opening-up measures and confidence, to share China’s new development opportunities with other countries, and to help improve global economic governance rules and promote the building of an open world economy, Tang Wenhong, assistant minister of commerce, told a press conference.

    This edition of the CIIE has attracted participants from 152 countries, regions and international organizations, and achieved a new record with 297 Fortune Global 500 companies and industry leaders set to attend, Tang said.

    As an important part of the CIIE, the Hongqiao International Economic Forum will include a main forum and 19 sub-forums.

    Since its first edition in 2018, this expo has become an important stage spotlighting China’s new development paradigm, a platform for high-level opening up, and a public good for the whole world.

    The previous six editions saw nearly 2,500 new products, technologies and services make their debuts, with combined intended turnover reaching over 420 billion U.S. dollars.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ4: Application for refund of stamp duty in respect of redevelopment project

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Louis Loong and a reply by the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, in the Legislative Council today (October 23):
     
    Question:
     
         During the past decade or so when demand-side management measures for residential properties were in place, the Government levied the Buyer’s Stamp Duty (BSD) on residential property transactions and applied a higher rate of ad valorem stamp duty (AVD) to collect AVD. Under sections 29DD and 29DE of the Stamp Duty Ordinance, an applicant may apply for a refund of the BSD paid and a partial refund of the AVD paid upon redeveloping a residential property, thereby reducing the effective stamp duty rate after the refund to no more than 4.25 per cent. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) of the respective numbers of refund applications involving BSD and AVD and the amounts involved in the past three years, as well as the time taken by the authorities from receipt of applications to completion of refunds (set out in a table);
     
    (2) among the applications mentioned in (1), of the respective numbers of those for which refunds have been completed and those still being processed; and
     
    (3) as it is learnt that the Government is not required to pay interest on the refund amounts concerned, what measures the Government has put in place to expedite the processing of applications and the completion of refunds under the current high interest rate environment?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         To maintain steady development of the private residential property market, the Government had implemented a series of demand-side management measures for residential properties before, which included imposing Buyer’s Stamp Duty (BSD) and charging Ad Valorem Stamp Duty (AVD) at higher rates (i.e. the rates at Scale 1). BSD applied to acquisition of residential properties by a non-Hong Kong permanent resident (HKPR) or a company. The higher rates of AVD applied to all transactions of residential properties except for circumstances where the buyer was a HKPR and did not own any other residential property in Hong Kong at the time of acquiring the relevant property. The Government has been closely monitoring changes in the residential property market and timely adjusted relevant measures. Since the end of February this year, all stamp duty measures relating to demand-side management of residential properties have been abolished.
     
         When formulating demand-side management measures for residential properties, the Government established a duty refund mechanism in order not to hinder redevelopment projects. Any person acquiring a residential property for redevelopment purpose may apply for refund of the BSD paid and part of the AVD paid under sections 29DD and 29DE of the Stamp Duty Ordinance respectively. The refundable amount of AVD paid is the difference between the duties calculated at the higher and lower rates.
     
         My reply to Hon Loong’s question is as follows:
     
    (1) In the past three financial years, the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) received 2 724 applications for refund of BSD in respect of redevelopments, involving about $8.1 billion, and 2 688 applications for refund of part of the AVD in respect of redevelopments, involving about $5.4 billion. The breakdown by each financial year is set out in Table (1):
     

    Table (1)：The number of applications and the amounts involved in applications for refund of part of the stamp duty in respect of redevelopment projects

    Financial Year in which the application was received
    BSD
    Part of AVD

    No. of applications
    (Note 1)
    Amount of refund applied for
    No. of applications
    (Note 1)
    Amount of refund applied for

     
    $ million
     
    $ million

    2021-22
    723
    3,100
    688
    2,100

    2022-23
    828
    2,147
    831
    1,331

    2023-24
    1 173
    2,860
    1 169
    1,967

    Total
    2 724
    8,107
    2 688
    5,398

    Note 1: As an applicant may apply for refund of BSD and part of AVD in respect of the same residential property transaction, there is overlap in the properties involved in the applications in Table (1).
     
         In the past three financial years, the time taken by the IRD from receipt of applications to completion of processing them is set out in Table (2):
     

    Table (2)：Time taken to complete the refunds of BSD and part of the AVD (Note 2)

    Financial Year in which the application was received
    Below three months
    Three months to below five months
    Five months to below nine months
    Nine months or above

    2021-22
    25
    352
    292
    738

    2022-23
    94
    127
    642
    709

    2023-24
    24
    337
    480
    363

    Total
    143
    816
    1 414
    1 810

    Note 2: As at end of September 2024

         The time taken set out in Table (2) includes the time for the IRD to wait for some applicants to submit all the required information and documents. Almost all the applicants of applications that took five months or above to process failed to submit all the required information and documents when submitting the applications, and needed to make further submission(s) afterwards. Some applicants would take a few months or even more than a year to submit all the required information and documents. Generally speaking, the IRD is able to complete the approval and refund procedures within three to four months after receiving all the required information and documents.
     
    (2) In respect of the applications received from 2021-22 to 2023-24, as at end of September this year, the IRD has finished processing 2 097 applications for refund of BSD and 2 086 for refund of part of AVD. A total of 627 applications for refund of BSD and 602 for refund of part of AVD are still being processed, involving 11 redevelopment projects. As an applicant may apply for refund of BSD and part of AVD in respect of the same residential property transaction, there is overlap in the properties involved in the above approximately 1 200 applications.
     
    (3) Redevelopment projects typically involve dozens, or even more than a hundred stamp duty refund applications, involving a significant amount of stamp duty. Therefore, the IRD needs to carefully examine a large number of documents, including the agreement for sale and purchase, information about the applicant and the associated body corporate(s), the consent or approval issued by the Building Authority in respect of the new development, etc. for each application, so as to avoid any abuse of the refund mechanism. As previously mentioned, most applicants whose applications took five months or longer to complete processing needed to submit supplementary information after making the applications. In order to reduce correspondence between the IRD and the applicants regarding the submission of required information and to shorten the time to wait for applicants to supplement required information, the IRD will update the stamp duty refund application form and guidelines by the end of this year. The updated form will provide a detailed list of all necessary documents and remind applicants that their applications will only be considered valid after all documents have been submitted. Following the updating of the stamp duty refund application form, the IRD will organise a briefing session for the Real Estate Developers Association of Hong Kong and developers to help the industry understand the IRD’s requirements. The IRD will also publish guidelines to explain the common issues encountered during the processing of stamp duty refund applications and how the IRD handles them. Furthermore, the IRD will review the current application processing procedures and deploy resources to expedite the processing of applications.
     
         After implementing the aforementioned enhancement measures, the IRD anticipates that most of the stamp duty refund applications can be completed within two months after receiving all the documents.

         Thank you, President.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Food retailer convicted of supplying and in possession of duck liver with false claims (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Food retailer convicted of supplying and in possession of duck liver with false claims (with photo)
    Food retailer convicted of supplying and in possession of duck liver with false claims (with photo)
    ******************************************************************************************

         A food retailer was convicted of supplying and in possession of a kind of Chinese duck liver that was falsely claimed as “Hungarian goose liver”, in contravention of the Trade Descriptions Ordinance (TDO), and was fined $30,000 at the Shatin Magistrates’ Courts today (October 23). A total of 27 packs of duck liver involved in the case were also confiscated.     During a territory-wide inspection conducted earlier, Hong Kong Customs purchased a food product claimed to be goose liver from the food retailer and sent the samples to the Government Laboratory for testing. The testing results revealed that the products were actually duck livers.     Customs subsequently took enforcement action and seized a total of 27 packs of related products with a total value of about $3,900 from four branches of the food retailer.       Customs reminds traders to comply with the requirements of the TDO and urges consumers to procure products at reputable shops.     Under the TDO, any person who supplies goods with a false trade description in the course of trade or business, or is in possession of any goods for sale with a false trade description, commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $500,000 and imprisonment for five years.     Members of the public may report any suspected violations of the TDO to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).

     
    Ends/Wednesday, October 23, 2024Issued at HKT 16:45

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Result of the auction of 2.25 per cent DGB 2026 and 2.25 per cent DGB 2033 G

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Bids, sales, cut-off price, pro rata and yield are presented in the table below:           

    ISIN Bid mill. DKK (nominal) Sale mill.DKK (nominal) Cut-off price Pro rata Yield
    99 24888 DGB 2.25% 15/11/2026 510 510 100.785 100 % 1.86 % p.a.
    99 24615 DGB 2.25% 15/11/2033 G 1,510 1,410 101.00 100 % 2.13 % p.a.
    Total 2,020 1,920      

    Settlement: 25 October 2024

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Exclusive Markets’ Mr. Lambros Lambrou Honoured with ‘Top 50 Financial Markets CEO Awards 2024’ in Dubai

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Oct. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Exclusive Markets proudly announces that Mr. Lambros Lambrou, CEO of the esteemed organization, has been awarded the prestigious ‘Top 50 Financial Markets CEO Awards’ at the Middle East Financial Markets Awards Ceremony Dubai 2024 – 2ndEdition. This award is not only a testament to his exceptional leadership, visionary approach, and significant contributions to the financial sector but also highlights his dedication to excellence and his role in driving the success and growth of Exclusive Markets.

    Lambros Lambrou leads Exclusive Markets, guiding the firm through dynamic market landscapes and ensuring sustained growth. His strategic vision has been instrumental in positioning Exclusive Markets as one of the top players in the global trading sector. Under his leadership, the firm has expanded its portfolio and consistently delivered exceptional value to its clients.

    On receiving the award, Lambros Lambrou expressed his gratitude for the recognition, saying, “I am deeply honoured. It reflects the collective efforts of the entire team at Exclusive Markets. Together, we have strived to create an environment that fosters innovation, integrity, and excellence. This award inspires us to continue our journey towards setting new standards in the industry.”

    This marks the relentless commitment to excellence of Lambros Lambrou. His innovative strategies and client centric approach have set new benchmarks in the industry. The leadership in Exclusive Markets is characterized by a deep understanding of market dynamics, a keen eye for emerging trends, and a passion for nurturing talent within the organization.

    About Exclusive Markets

    Exclusive Markets is committed to delivering a robust, secure, and transparent platform for investors in various financial instruments. With a strong emphasis on advanced technology and ISO/IEC 27001:2013 Certification from MSECB, Exclusive Markets provides traders with an outstanding platform that seamlessly blends advanced features with user-friendly interfaces.

    Traders can explore a diverse selection of trading instruments, including CFD stocks, commodities, currencies, and spot metals. The company’s expert team is dedicated to meeting the evolving demands of clients by broadening the array of products and services, enabling traders to invest according to their unique preferences.

    Risk Warning: Trading involves risk.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/25d6ff93-af6f-4d51-b584-4e27a0ed10ed

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Suspended trading due to challenges with NAV calculations

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

                                                                                                              Lysaker, 23 October 2024

    The below funds are suspended from the live trading on Nasdaq Copenhagen due to technical issues which affect NAV calculations, and hence, challenges to provide intrinsic values for the funds.

    Regards

    Storebrand Asset Management AS

    Contacts:

    Kim Toftegaard Andreassen, Director, Kim.Toftegaard.Andreassen@storebrand.com

    Frode Aasen, Product Manager, fdc@storebrand.com

    Fund name and share class Symbol ISIN
    SKAGEN Focus A SKIFOA NO0010735129
    SKAGEN Global A SKIGLO NO0008004009
    SKAGEN Kon-Tiki A SKIKON NO0010140502
    SKAGEN m2 A SKIM2 NO0010657356
    SKAGEN Vekst A SKIVEK NO0008000445
    Storebrand Indeks – Alle Markeder A5 STIIAM NO0010841588
    Storebrand Indeks – Nye Markeder A5 STIINM NO0010841570
    Storebrand Global ESG Plus A5 STIGEP NO0010841604
    Storebrand Global Solutions A5 STIGS NO0010841612
    Storebrand Global Multifactor A5 STIGM NO0010841596

    Storebrand is Norway’s largest private asset manager with an AuM of around DKK 900 billions, and also a leading Nordic provider of sustainable pensions and savings. The company has been a global pioneer in ESG investing for over 25 years, offering broad and scalable solutions for both institutional and private investors in the Nordic region and other European countries. Storebrand delivers sustainable investment solutions and client value through a multi-boutique platform, with the brands Delphi Funds, SKAGEN Funds and Storebrand Funds.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: WHO – Government leaders and multisectoral partners unite to tackle noncommunicable diseases and mental health issues in the Commonwealth

    Source: World Health Organization (WHO)

    APIA, Samoa l 23 October 2024 – High-level government leaders and multistakeholder partners came together today to strengthen their commitment to addressing noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and mental health at a side event held during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Apia, Samoa. The event, titled “Weaving a Healthy Commonwealth Aiga for Combating Noncommunicable Diseases and Promoting Mental Health,” was jointly organized by the Ministry of Health, Samoa, the World Health Organization (WHO) Representative Office in Samoa, and the Commonwealth Secretariat.

    The event highlighted the importance of strong political commitment, partnerships and community involvement in tackling the global health challenges posed by NCDs and mental health issues. Participants from various sectors, including health, education, sports, finance, agriculture, trade, and media, shared their insights and strategies to create environments that promote healthier lifestyles and build more resilient health systems.

    Noncommunicable diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, cancers, chronic respiratory diseases, and diabetes, are the leading cause of death in most countries. These diseases account for 150 million premature deaths among people aged between 30 and 70 years, most living in developing countries.

    Director General of Health, Professor Aiono Dr Alec Ekeroma, highlighted Samoa’s unique approach, “The Ministry of Health has successfully introduced the ‘Package of Essential NCD Services (PEN) Fa’a Samoa’ into our communities, demonstrating our strong commitment to tackling NCDs and mental health issues. We continue to seek innovative ways to strengthen our partnerships with other sectors to reduce NCDs and improve mental health. The Samoan government is dedicated to fostering these collaborations to ensure sustainable and impactful health outcomes for our people.”

    “Tackling NCDs and mental health is not just a job for the health sector. It requires the dedicated involvement of the whole-of-government and whole-of-society. By working together across different sectors and tapping into community strengths, we can significantly reduce the burden of NCDs and mental health conditions,” said Dr Kim Eva Dickson, WHO Representative to Samoa, American Samoa, Cook Islands, Niue and Tokelau.

    NCDs have also become a serious challenge for people under 30, who make up 60% of the Commonwealth population. In the previous CHOGM held in Rwanda in 2022, the Commonwealth youth-led NCD Guiding Framework was developed to provide a road map for collective action to address the root causes of NCDs and promote healthier lifestyles, especially among the younger population.

    Commonwealth Secretary-General, the Rt Hon Patricia Scotland, KC said, “In Rwanda, we committed to take bold multisectoral action to reduce the incidence of NCDs. This year here in Samoa, the Commonwealth remains committed to strengthening partnerships that support health equity and sustainable development. By coming together as a Commonwealth ‘aiga’ or family today, our leaders and stakeholders have underscored the collective resolve to combat NCDs and promote mental health.”

    Alongside the focus on addressing NCDs and mental health, the event also highlighted the importance of healthy ageing. A report, authored by Professor Dame Carol Black, the Commonwealth Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Ageing Well was presented at the event. As people live longer by prioritizing strategies to prevent NCDs, it is equally important that they continue to thrive and live productive lives.

    The event concluded with renewed commitments from various sectors and stakeholders to work together to combat NCDs and promote mental health, helping set the stage for continued collaboration and action within the Commonwealth.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Irina Dolzhenko, People’s Artist of Russia

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Mikhail Mishustin congratulated the opera singer, teacher, and soloist of the Bolshoi Theater on her anniversary.

    The telegram states, in particular:

    “Your uniquely beautiful voice, artistry and rare charm have brought you professional recognition and the love of opera lovers. Your teaching activities and worthy contribution to the preservation and development of the best traditions of the national opera school deserve special respect.

    I wish you new creative ideas, inexhaustible inspiration, good health and prosperity.”

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Bazaar Carnival in Celebration of 75th Anniversary of Founding of People’s Republic of China to run from October 25 to 29

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Bazaar Carnival in Celebration of 75th Anniversary of Founding of People’s Republic of China to run from October 25 to 29
    Bazaar Carnival in Celebration of 75th Anniversary of Founding of People’s Republic of China to run from October 25 to 29
    ******************************************************************************************

         ​The Home Affairs Department and 28 provincial-level Clansmen Associations will hold the Bazaar Carnival in Celebration of the 75th Anniversary of the Founding of the People’s Republic of China from October 25 to 29 at Sha Tin Park, sharing the joyful atmosphere of the National Day with members of the public. The Bazaar Carnival is free for entry and does not require admission tickets.     The five-day Bazaar Carnival will feature 75 market stalls, offering specialty foods and hometown products from across the country. There will also be diverse cultural performances, film screenings and culture introductions of the different provinces, enabling members of the public and tourists to experience a rich variety of customs and unique cultures from across the country.     For information about celebratory events of the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, please visit http://www.nationalday75.gov.hk.

     
    Ends/Wednesday, October 23, 2024Issued at HKT 17:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Local Government Association of Queensland Annual Conference

    Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development

    I’d like to thank LGAQ CEO, Alison Smith, for the warm invitation to this year’s annual conference.

    It’s really great to be here with you.

    It’s also nice to be in QLD without my kids! 

    Don’t get me wrong, I know how important family holidays are for your economies across Queensland.

    But it’s actually quite nice not to be running around in swimmers at a water park!

    Just don’t tell my kids I said this!

    I’d also like to give a huge shout out to Mayor Matt Burnett, and congratulate him on his appointment as the new Australian Local Government Association National President.

    He’s a strong, passionate voice for the sector and I look forward to working with him in this new capacity.

    Once a regional mayor myself, I’m can’t help but note that Matt and the two new Vice Presidents all hail from regional Australia!

    Like all of you in the room, I’m committed to strengthening the local government sector. 

    The Albanese Government takes this seriously, because when we work together, we get the best outcomes for our communities.

    You are a trusted deliver partner of the services every community across Queensland relies on.

    We value this, and we’re investing in it.

    We’ve brought you back to the national conversation, at both National Cabinet, and at our two successful Australian Council of Local Government forums. 

    We had over 770 people from the local government sector participate this year, many from the Sunshine State! 

    This open-door, collective dialogue is incredibly important, because there’s nothing worse than decisions being made for you – without you – from Canberra. 

    It’s how we can deliver funding where it’s needed, so that we can continue to get projects that matter to your communities off the ground. 

    It’s why your input into the federal inquiry into local government sustainability underway right now is incredibly important, because it will help us shape how we can deliver the support you need.

    This is one of the reasons we’ve significantly increased road funding to all local councils across Queensland – acting on feedback from you.

    Much like my home state of NSW, your roads have more people on them than ever before.

    Many of them are regional, and many of them have been totally washed away by extreme weather events.

    We are progressively doubling Roads to Recovery from $500 million to $1 billion nationally, which will have a huge impact on how you upgrade and maintain your local roads.

    Almost $900 million is flowing to local governments in Queensland over the next five years, a boost of over $353 million thanks to the Albanese Government. 

    A pipeline of new work will build on the thousands of projects being delivered under Roads to Recovery.

    Projects on the roads your communities drive every day – the ones they call or email you about to improve!

    This builds on funding under our Road Black Spot program – which is also increasing from $110 million to $150 million per year. 

    Under this program in this financial year, we’re already supporting 31 Black Spot sites across Queensland, with more than two thirds of this funding supporting projects in regional areas.

    Projects like upgrading Kajabbi Road in the Cloncurry Shire – fixing a problem which often saw this road closed during wet weather.

    But it’s not just roads that our local communities want to see delivered.

    We obviously need safe and reliable roads to get around, because we all have somewhere to go – from work, holidaying, to catching up with family and friends.

    That’s why we’re also investing in projects that bring our communities together.

    Projects that unlock new jobs and economic opportunities.

    We’ve introduced our Growing Regions and Thriving Suburbs programs.

    For the first time, a funding opportunity for everyone community – regardless of your postcode.

    Projects supported through these programs will be truly region-shaping.

    Out of the 40 successful projects under Round 1 of Growing Regions, nine are in Queensland.

    Among them is the Agnes Water Skate Park Revitalisation at Gladstone.

    This is something long called for by the community – and will really be a whole community facility, because skate parks really are for all ages.

    Trust me, there’s vision on my socials to prove that! 

    I don’t know how good I was, but there’s vision!

    In Mackay, the Regional Council will construct the Northern Beaches Community Hub.

    This will be a central gathering place for the community, and really change how they come together for major events and activities.

    Applications for Round 2 – now with a single stage process, which is updated after feedback from you – closed earlier this month.

    A further $393 million is available, and we look forward to seeing many more amazing projects under this round! 

    One of the big things councils across Queensland talk to me about is housing.

    It’s why we’re investing $32 billion in housing initiatives – the biggest investment in over a decade.

    This will see 1.2 million new homes built over the next five years, including many in our regions.

    But increasing housing supply requires collaboration and investment across all levels of government.

    It’s why we launched our $1.5 billion Housing Support Program, to get enabling infrastructure underway, and build more homes sooner. 

    And they say imitation is the best form of flattery, and I note the Opposition have copied this program, so good on them.

    $7 million is flowing to Queensland under Round 1 of our program to 16 projects, with 15 of these in regional locations.

    This is where we know more people are moving to, but where we need more housing to attract and retain the workers our community needs.

    Among the Queensland funding is support for precinct planning around the new Bundaberg Hospital development.

    Support for developing and delivering a Townsville Housing Strategy.

    Plus funding to the Torres Shire Council, to develop and deliver a Horn Island Housing Growth Master Plan.

    Getting more people under a safe and secure roof starts with strengthen your planning abilities.

    The second phase of this program is support for the enabling infrastructure we need to get underway. 

    Successful applications for those programs will be announced later this year. 

    I mentioned before roads getting washed away – and that’s just one of the things that happens when our communities are struck by disasters.

    All of us in the room can agree that when a disaster does hit us, response and recovery is led from the local level up.

    I had this experience myself as Mayor of Bega Valley Shire in NSW – where I had nine declared disasters.

    Black Summer bushfires, which were only put out from extreme floods!

    Ensuring communities are in the best possible position to recover, but that they’re also better prepared, is something very close to my heart.

    My community is still rebuilding, as are so many across Queensland.

    I’m really proud of our $1 billion Disaster Ready Fund.

    We not long had 165 successful projects under Round 2 this program announced nationally.

    This included over $55 million for 29 local projects across Queensland.

    Among them is funding for the Burke Shire towards establishing a multi-sensor warning system.

    Funding towards a back-up generator for the Badu Council Administration Centre in the Torres Straits.

    And funding for a 120-metre long stepped concrete seawall in Deception Bay, to replace a failed rock and shotcrete seawall.

    When we work together we get more done – and this is especially the case for Disaster response and recovery.

    A partnership approach has been our focus since we came to government.

    You’re central to turning federal funding into local results – and I want to thank you for this.

    I’d also like to thank LGAQ for your continued support of the sector, and for your advocacy.

    I know there will be many productive conversations today, so I’ll let you get to it. 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Second extrapolation for 2024: Confederation reckoning on financing deficit of CHF 900 million

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Finance

    The Federal Council was informed about the current extrapolation on 23 October 2024. The Confederation is reckoning on a financing deficit of CHF 900 million for this year. The expected deficit is thus likely to be lower than forecast in the June extrapolation (-1.6 bn) and in the budget (-2.6 bn), as a result of lower expenditure and the deferral to next year of the extraordinary capital contribution to SBB.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The London Fire Brigade: Is its culture changing?

    Source: Mayor of London

    Two years on from a review which identified institutional misogyny, racism and issues in handling mental health, what progress has the London Fire Brigade (LFB) made in tackling its cultural problems?

    Tomorrow, the London Assembly Fire Committee will ask academics, unions, and women in the fire service about how much progress has been made since the review and what work can still be done.

    Members will closely examine whether the LFB’s recently launched Professional Standards Unit and its External Complaints Service are working effectively to drive up standards in the service, and will learn more about the challenges of the delivery of complex cultural change in other institutions.

    The guests are:

    Panel 1: 10am-10.45am

    • Ann-Marie Barlow, Director, Energise Development
    • Suzanne McCarthy, Independent Chair, Fire Standards Board
    • Dr Jessica White, Acting Director of Terrorism and Conflict Studies, Royal United Services Institute
    • Dr Rowena Hill MBE, Professor of Resilience, Emergencies and Disaster Science, Nottingham Trent University

    Panel 2: 10.55am-12.15pm

    • Paula Lyons, Company Secretary, Women in the Fire Service
    • Anna Snelson, LFB Women in the Fire Service
    • Gareth Cooke, London Regional Organiser, Fire Brigades Union
    • Adam Shaw, London Regional Treasurer, Fire Brigades Union
    • Deborah Riviere Williams, Chair of Unison within the LFB

    The meeting will take place on Thursday 24 October from 10am, in the Chamber at City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, E16 1ZE.

    Media and members of the public are invited to attend.

    The meeting can also be viewed LIVE or later via webcast or YouTube.

    Follow us @LondonAssembly.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: On your marks – 100 days to file Self Assessment

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government Non-Ministerial Departments 2

    Self Assessment customers encouraged to prepare and file their tax return early as 31 January deadline is in sight.

    • People have 100 days until 31 January deadline to file their Self Assessment tax return and pay tax owed  
    • Self Assessment customers urged to prepare and file their tax return early 

    The countdown clock has begun as HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) reminds customers they have 100 days to file and pay their Self Assessment tax return before the 31 January deadline. 

    Anyone who is yet to start, can access information and guidance on GOV.UK to help them complete their tax return. 

    More than 3.5 million have already beaten the clock and submitted their returns. HMRC is reminding others that starting their Self Assessment early means they are more likely to complete an accurate tax return, avoid any last-minute panic plus they will know what they owe sooner and can budget. 

    Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Director General for Customer Services, said: 

    The countdown to the Self Assessment deadline has begun but there is still time to thoroughly prepare and file an accurate tax return by 31 January. You can access online help and support to help you file. Search ‘help with Self Assessment’ on GOV.UK to find out more. 

    More than 12 million people need to file a tax return for the 2023 to 2024 tax year and pay any tax owed by the 31 January 2025 deadline.  

    HMRC has produced a series of  YouTube videos to help people complete their return and a step-by-step guide to check what customers need to do to file their first tax return.    

    Customers who are unsure if they need to file a tax return can visit GOV.UK to check if they need to send a Self Assessment tax return.  

    Anyone who is new to Self Assessment needs to register to receive their Unique Taxpayer Reference before they can send a tax return for the 2023 to 2024 tax year. 

    People who no longer need to file a tax return should tell HMRC as soon as possible to avoid any penalties. HMRC has produced 2 videos explaining how customers can go online and stop Self Assessment if they are self-employed and those who are not self-employed.  

    How to go online and stop Self Assessment if you’re self-employed

    How to go online and stop Self Assessment if you’re not self-employed

    HMRC recommends that anyone who regularly sell goods or provides a service through an online platform to find out more about selling online and paying taxes. The information on GOV.UK will help them decide if their activity should be treated as a trade and if they need to complete a Self Assessment tax return. 

    Criminals use emails, phone calls and texts to try to steal information and money from taxpayers. Before sharing their personal or financial details, people should search ‘HMRC tax scams’ on GOV.UK to access a checklist to help them decide if the contact they have received is a scam 

    People should never share their HMRC login information with anyone. Someone could use them to steal from them or claim benefits or a refund in their name.

    Further Information

    More information on Self Assessment 

    The deadlines for tax returns for 2023 to 2024 tax year are 31 October 2024 for paper returns and 31 January 2025 for online returns. 

    More than 97% of Self Assessment returns are filed online. 

    People can use the HMRC app to find out how to register for Self Assessment, check their Unique Taxpayer Reference, get their National Insurance number and employment income and history and pay their tax bill.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SHYA expresses sorrow over passing of Mr Michael Suen

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         â€‹The Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Miss Alice Mak, today (October 23) expressed sorrow over the passing of Mr Michael Suen, and extended her sincere condolences to his family.
          
         Mr Suen served as Secretary for Home Affairs from November 1991 to March 1997 and was the first Secretary for Home Affairs from July to early August 1997 after Hong Kong’s return to the motherland.
          
         “With decades of service in the Government, Mr Suen was dedicated to serving the Government and the people of Hong Kong. He made significant contributions when he took charge of matters in relation to home affairs in the period following Hong Kong’s return to the motherland. I am saddened by the passing of Mr Suen and would like to extend my deepest condolences to his family,” Miss Mak said.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government welcomes passage of Rating (Amendment) Bill 2024

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Government welcomed the passage of the Rating (Amendment) Bill 2024 by the Legislative Council today (October 23). The Bill gives effect to the progressive rating system for domestic tenements, which will take effect from the fourth quarter of this financial year (i.e. January to March 2025), to uphold the principle of “affordable users pay”.

         Starting from the fourth quarter of this financial year, for domestic tenements with a rateable value (RV) of $550,000 or below, rates will continue to be charged at 5 per cent of the RV. For domestic tenements with an RV exceeding $550,000, rates will be charged at the same rate of 5 per cent for the first $550,000, 8 per cent for the next $250,000, and 12 per cent for the remaining RV.

         Non-domestic tenements, including tenements used for business activities or social services, e.g. commercial building, industrial building, shop, hotel, nursery, home for the elderly, youth hostel, holiday camp, etc, will not be subject to the progressive rating system.

         The Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, said, “The progressive rating system endeavours to strike a balance between upholding the ‘affordable users pay’ principle and minimising the number of ratepayers affected. In formulating the progressive rating system, the Government has taken into account a basket of factors, including the affordability of ratepayers of domestic tenements, the market rentals as reflected in the RV, the number of affected ratepayers and the amount of additional rates to be paid, the estimated increase in revenue from rates, as well as the fundamental principle of maintaining a simple rating system. The progressive rating system is part of the Government’s comprehensive fiscal consolidation programme. It is expected that government revenue will increase by about $820 million each year. The affected domestic tenements account for about 1.9 per cent of the total number of private domestic tenements in Hong Kong.”

         The Bill will be gazetted on November 1. The Rating and Valuation Department will inform the affected ratepayers. The quarterly demands to be issued in the fourth quarter of this financial year will reflect the progressive rates for applicable cases.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK How did the Speaker mark Black History Month 2024?

    Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)

    Last week, the Speaker of the House of Commons welcomed Members, House staff and special guests to Speaker’s House to mark Black History Month.

    This month offers an opportunity to unite in reflection but also to learn about the culture and history of those in the community, past and present. Thank you to the cast of ‘Just My Imagination’ – The Temptations tribute act, showcasing some of the best of British performing arts.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YKAQvNdzdS0

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: South China Sea conference 2024: speech by UK Minister for the Indo-Pacific

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Minister Catherine West gave a keynote speech to the South China Sea conference in Ha Long, Vietnam.

    Location:
    Ha Long, Vietnam
    Delivered on:
    (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)

    Good morning everybody, and it’s lovely to be here on such a perfect morning with those beautiful mountains and sea in front of us.

    As we’ve heard from Dr Dung and Vice Minister Viet, thank you to our local government partners who’ve put on such a beautiful event for us. And thank you to our Indonesian collaborator who spoke first, it was so good to hear from him.

    In the UK we have a relatively new government, elected in July this year…

    … and many people have asked me as the new Minister for the Indo-Pacific, “how do we know that the UK is committed to the Indo-Pacific?”.

    After three weeks my boss, David Lammy, who is the Foreign Secretary, visited Vientiane as part of the ASEAN discussions and this is my third country in the region to visit since July.

    So we know that working together with European partners and with others in the region, we can be allies with all of the partners in ASEAN and we can join together to have a very good discussion about peace and security.

    On Monday, I will go to Manila for the Women, Peace and Security conference, which will I think create a really deep understanding for myself as a new Minister as to the challenges in the region. And also the importance of promoting women’s leadership around this area of partnerships, rooted in respect and mutual trust. 

    Positioning the UK as a long-term reliable partner of the Indo-Pacific, underpinned by a shared respect for ASEAN leadership and centrality. And after that conference I will return to the UK, bringing back news of the conference and your thoughts.

    Because we know that after nearly 25 years of the landmark UN Security Council Resolution 1325,… 

    …in which the UK played a leading role,… 

    …I will underline that our commitment to advancing participation in conflict prevention, reduction and resolution is unwavering, both in ASEAN but also globally.  

    And it is in the same spirit that I join you here today, to set out the UK’s support for collective efforts to maintain regional security and uphold international law.

    Global Maritime Security  

    Let me begin by stating unambiguously that the UK wants a free and open Indo-Pacific.  

    Because put simply, our collective global prosperity hinges on keeping the vital sea-lanes in the South China Sea open. Or the East Sea, as I believe in Vietnam you call it.

    Our shared security interests also demand that we stand-up for principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity… 

    …through the international legal framework that protects these principles,… 

    …for example, the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea – or UNCLOS as we call it.    

    But it’s not just the Indo-Pacific.   

    Undermining international law in any situation, in any context… 

    … has the potential to corrode the wider system of global governance that protects security and prosperity. 

    Take for example the sustainable development goals.  

    We can hardly hope to achieve those goals without peace and security spurring on economic growth.  

    And all of that relies heavily on having stable seas where the rule of law is upheld.  

    And this year we’ve seen a serious and sustained series of incidents,… 

    …representing one of the sharpest spikes in tensions over recent years.  

    The use of water cannons, blocking, and ramming manoeuvres have interfered… 

    …with Philippine rights and freedom of navigation.  

    These actions, and the responses they may incite, raise the risk of serious miscalculation… 

    …as well as posing a direct threat to international law. 

    And last month Chinese law enforcement attacked Vietnamese fishermen, leaving them seriously injured.  

    The grave risk of instability and escalation that these incidents pose is a significant concern for the international community. 

    Not just because of the impact it could have on global prosperity and security, but also on livelihoods and local biodiversity.   

    That is why the UK has and will continue to protest any action which threatens peace and stability… 

    …or seeks to undermine the primacy of UNCLOS.  

    Keeping the South China Sea safe is our priority. 

    And the only way we can achieve that is by working together with partners including those represented here today.  

    Climate and nature security 

    Now another crucial element to our security and prosperity is climate and nature.

    After this session I will be going to visit some of the areas affected by Typhoon Yagi, to understand more deeply how the Red Cross is working to mitigate those terrible floods and hear from local people as to how they’re managing about those floods.

    We were among the first countries to sign the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Agreement… 

    …and we remain focussed on its ratification.   

    Home to over a third of world’s coral reefs – this region is critical… 

    …to halting and reversing the loss of the natural ecosystem. 

    Rising sea levels risk leading to worsening maritime disputes. 

    And we cannot tackle the various risks unless we understand them well.  

    So the UK is using its expertise to help.  

    For example, the UK Met Office is studying how changes in sea surface temperature affect migratory fish and coastal ecosystems,… 

    …playing a role not just on food security but also on addressing the poor environmental impact of rising temperatures.

    Back home, we have also set a landmark goal – to be the first major economy to deliver clean energy power by 2030.  

    But acting alone is not a solution.  

    That is why we want to work with you and partners across the world to accelerate the clean energy transition. 

    So we are boosting progress by building on existing programmes. 

    Such as the Just Energy Transition Partnerships – JETP – in Indonesia and Vietnam,… 

    …supporting innovative clean energy… 

    …and the expansion of grids and storage. 

    Growth and Technology 

    Technology also plays a key role… 

    …and is something the UK is keen to harness to help solve global challenges.  

    Modern maritime ecosystems is becoming increasingly interconnected and digital in its nature.  

    And more and more sophisticated technology supports improved port operations across the globe,… 

    …the development of Autonomous Surface Ships will reduce the number of seafarers needed to operate a vessel. 

    We know how essential undersea telecoms cables are.  

    And they will only grow in importance with the use of AI becoming more widespread.  

    That is why the UK is working transparently with partners to develop inclusive global norms and standards… 

    …for the responsible and ethical use of technology and AI, including in maritime contexts. 

    Working together 

    Finally, we know that we live in a rapidly changing world where the more closely we work, the stronger we are.   

    Next year, the UK will hold its third Regional Maritime Security Symposium in Southeast Asia to discuss collaboration on a range of maritime issues. 

    It’s so encouraging to be here today and to work with Asia-Pacific partners, and as I speak, HMS Spey and HMS Tamar, our two Offshore Patrol Vessels, continue their operations in the Indo-Pacific,… 

    …exercising with partners,… 

    …responding to humanitarian disasters,… 

    …and tackling maritime challenges.

    Thank you so much for the opportunity to speak today, and I look forward to questions afterwards.

    Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: GUU at the forum “Voice of the generation. Vice-rectors, teachers”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    A team of teachers from the State University of Management took part in the program “Voice of a Generation. Vice-Rectors Teachers”, held with the support of the Federal Agency for Youth Affairs and the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation.

    Representatives of more than 50 universities of our country gathered at the Mashuk Knowledge Center in Pyatigorsk.

    This year, the main topic of the meeting was educational work, which was examined from different points of view: psychology, law, neurobiology.

    The delegation of the State University of Management included: Deputy Director of the Institute of Economics and Finance for educational work Valeria Ivanova, Deputy Director of the Institute of Social and Cultural Studies and the Bureau of Culture Svetlana Grishaeva, Deputy Director of the Institute of Information Systems for educational work Kirill Putilov, Deputy Head of the Department of Management in the Sphere of Culture, Cinema, Television and Entertainment Industry Anna Akopyan and Lecturer of the Department of Marketing Alina Gorchakova.

    The forum’s guests of honor were Deputy Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation Olga Petrova and Advisor to the Head of the Federal Agency for Youth Affairs Madeleine Baturina.

    The forum program included not only the usual presentations by speakers, master classes and seminars, but also other formats of work: quiz, business games, round tables, reflection and an immersive game with immersion, where teachers together decided what the future world will be like in terms of values, specialties and what the student of the future will be like.

    During four days of intensive work, the team from each university had the opportunity not only to reconsider their views on the educational process at the university, but also to plan specific actions applicable in their work, as well as to exchange experiences with colleagues from other universities and even make their own proposals for changing the points of the educational work program at their university.

    At the end of the final evening, all participating teams had to formulate a phrase describing the main insight after completing the program.

    The quote from the GUU team is: “The happiness of discovering yourself through discovering others.”

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 23.10.2024

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: HazardCo takes its leading health and safety system to the UK

    Source: Press Release Service – Press Release/Statement:

    Headline: HazardCo takes its leading health and safety system to the UK

    HazardCo is proud to announce its expansion into the UK market, marking a significant milestone in its journey as a New Zealand-born tech company. With its roots in New Zealand and a proven track record in Australia, HazardCo is ready to help UK builders feel confident in their compliance and focus on delivering high-quality projects.

    The post HazardCo takes its leading health and safety system to the UK first appeared on PR.co.nz.

    – –

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Immigration Department repatriates 19 Vietnamese illegal immigrants to Vietnam (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

          The Immigration Department (ImmD) carried out a repatriation operation today (October 23). A total of 19 Vietnamese illegal immigrants were repatriated to Vietnam. The persons removed comprised seven men and 12 women, all of whom were unsubstantiated non-refoulement claimants. Among them were discharged prisoners who had committed criminal offences and had been sentenced to imprisonment.
     
          The ImmD has been committed to promptly removing unsubstantiated non-refoulement claimants from Hong Kong to maintain effective immigration control and safeguard the public interest. Under the updated removal policy effective from December 7, 2022, the ImmD may generally proceed with the removal of a claimant whose judicial review case has been dismissed by the Court of First Instance of the High Court, thereby enhancing the efficiency of and efforts in removing unsubstantiated claimants. 

          The ImmD will remain committed to expediting the removal process to repatriate illegal immigrants and overstayers from Hong Kong as soon as practicable according to the actual situation through appropriate measures as necessary.      

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ1: Waivers of land lease restrictions of industrial buildings

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         â€‹Following is a question by the Hon Jimmy Ng and a reply by the Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette Linn, in the Legislative Council today (October 23):
     
    Question:
     
         At present, the Lands Department allows owners of industrial building (IB) units to put their units to uses other than those permitted under the land leases through applications for waivers to temporarily relax the restrictions under the land leases. However, some owners have relayed to me that the fee for a waiver application is very high, and the original amount of the fee must be paid in the first place even if the appeal lodged by the owner against the amount of the fee is yet to be concluded. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) of the respective numbers of waiver applications in respect of IB land leases received, approved and rejected by the Government in each of the past five years; the number of approved applications for which waiver fees had been paid, as well as the respective amounts and floor areas involved; the respective numbers of appeals lodged against the amount of the waiver fee and successful appeals;
     
    (2) whether it will enhance the mechanism of appeal against the amount of the waiver fee to allow owners to pay the fee only after the appeal has been concluded; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and
     
    (3) given that at present, the Government has put in place an arrangement for relaxing waiver application in respect of IB land leases, under which owners are allowed to put their units to specific non-industrial uses without applying for a waiver, and such arrangement will expire on January 31, next year, whether the Government will extend or regularise the arrangement and expand the scope of the relevant specific non-industrial uses; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         Under land leases granted in earlier years, many existing industrial buildings (IB) may only be used for industrial use. In general, if owners wish to convert all or part of the units in such IBs for non-industrial uses, applications for waivers must first be made to the Lands Department (LandsD), subject to payment of a waiver fee and an administrative fee.
          
         With a view to encouraging the transformation of aged IBs, and making good use of the floor space of IBs in the urban area to meet the needs of economic development, the Government has rolled out concessionary measures, through exemption of waiver fees, to encourage owners to carry out wholesale conversion of IBs aged 15 years or above and situated in designated planning zones for non-industrial uses.

         If owners simply convert individual IB units for non-industrial uses, subject to compliance with the regulations of land planning and fire safety, the Government has also put in place measures to facilitate approval currently, including:
     

    Under the policy support of the Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau, if some units in an IB are converted for the use of operating data centres or testing and calibration laboratories, the LandsD would exempt the waiver fees payable for such units;
     
    If the individual IB units are used for some common non-industrial uses such as office, information technology and telecommunication premises, offices for professionals, etc (Note), the LandsD has since 2003 promulgated standard rates for waiver fees for those designated uses , so as to expedite the approval process. The LandsD would make reference to market information to review and adjust the standard rates annually so as to reflect the changes in market rent;

         As for those cases where the abovementioned waiver fee exemption or standard rates are not applicable, the relevant waiver fees would be assessed and determined on a case-by-case basis under the conventional assessment mechanism. If applicants do not agree with the fees proposed by the LandsD, they may lodge an appeal with the LandsD.

         In this policy context, my reply to the various parts of the question raised by the Hon Ng is as follows:
     
    (1) In the past three years, the LandsD received 198 applications for waivers relating to individual IB units. Setting aside those rejected or withdrawn cases, there are 154 cases approved or under processing, over half of which, or some 80 cases, are exempted from waiver fees or are subject to calculation of waiver fees at standard rates. Among the 87 approved cases in the past three years, 31 cases are subject to individual assessment for waiver fees, including three cases in respect of which appeal on the fees have been lodged and are under processing. Details of the relevant figures are set out at Annex. Given the time constraint, the LandsD could only provide the figures for the past three years.

    (2) As I mentioned earlier, the LandsD promulgates the standard rates for waiver applications for designated uses. The merit of the standard rates is to allow the applicants to know the fee calculation method upfront and decide whether to make the applications. This would help shorten the processing time. Therefore, applications calculated at standard rates are not subject to appeal.

         As for other cases under the conventional assessment mechanism, applicants may lodge an appeal against the fees assessed by the LandsD, which would consider the justifications received to make a decision. If the premises has not yet been used for the proposed non-industrial uses at the time of application, applicants do not need to pay the waiver fees immediately during the appeal period.

         If the premises has already been used for non-industrial uses at the time of application, which means that the use has already changed before the application is approved, the relevant use is indeed in breach of the user restriction of industrial use under the lease. Before accepting the appeal on waiver fees for handling, the LandsD would request the applicants to pay upfront the administrative fee and the fees already assessed by the LandsD, so as to avoid the continuation of non-compliant uses without any payment by the applicant through making an appeal. Subject to the review result, if the applicants have overpaid, the relevant amount would be deducted accordingly in the next quarter.

         Even though the above mechanism operates relatively smoothly, the Development Bureau and the LandsD would conduct a review, covering whether there is room for applying standard rates to more uses under waiver applications, and whether standards and targets can be set for the appeal procedures in terms of processing time, so as to optimise and expedite the approval procedures for facilitating businesses.

    (3) To continue encouraging redevelopment and wholesale conversion of aged IBs, the Policy Address delivered last week announced the extension of an array of measures under the revitalisation scheme for IBs to end-2027, including the measures of concern to the Hon Ng as cited in the question, i.e. the conversion of individual units into the non-industrial uses designated by the Government without the need for applying for waivers in the case of those IBs that may not have been able to undergo wholesale conversion due to multiple ownership. The Government has introduced this measure (waiver measure) since 2019, permitting these units to be used for the following uses, including (a) Art Studio; (b) Office (Audio-visual Recording Studio); (c) Office (Design and Media Production); (d) Office (used by “specified creative industries” only); and (e) Research, Design and Development Centre. As no waiver application is required, no waiver fee is payable. For public safety, the designated non-industrial uses under the waiver measure should not involve any uses or activities with direct provision of services or goods, to prevent attracting the public to visit buildings that still have industrial activities..

    Note: Designated non-industrial/non-residential uses are: (1) headquarters or back-office operations; (2) offices for professional consultants, such as architects, engineers, surveyors, planning consultants, solicitors and accountants; (3) offices for business services, such as advertising agencies, management consultants, public relations agencies and interior/graphic designers; (4) information technology and telecommunications industries; (5) cargo handling and forwarding facilities; (6) recyclable collection centres; and (7) such other uses for non-industrial/non-residential purposes not involving direct provision of customer services or goods to the general public.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Meet Hedwige Lauwaert, who supported NATO’s media relations for more than 25 years

    Source: NATO

    During her long career at NATO, Hedwige Lauwaert served as the principal assistant to four NATO Spokespersons. In this behind-the-scenes role, she helped the Alliance communicate with thousands of international journalists – and witnessed turning points in NATO history, such as the accession of the first countries from the former Eastern Bloc in 1999, NATO’s operation Allied Force conducted in March 1999 to halt the humanitarian catastrophe that was then unfolding in Kosovo, and the invocation of Article 5 after the 9/11 terrorist attacks against the United States.

    The journey to NATO’s press office

    Hedwige was born in the Belgian city of Ninove in 1950, just a year after Belgium became a founding member of NATO. She studied modern languages and worked for 12 years in the private sector, for air transportation and engineering companies, before applying for a job at NATO Headquarters in Brussels.

    Hedwige’s journey at NATO started in 1984, when she joined the International Military Staff at the Allied Long Lines Agency (ALLA). ALLA’s mission was to ensure telecommunication services in times of conflict and peace, and to provide support to NATO and the Allies in commercial procurement.

    After one year of working in ALLA, Hedwige transferred to a new role in NATO’s Office of Information and Press, where she was part of the team in charge of organising visits to NATO Headquarters and offering group briefings to students, opinion makers, government officials and academics in English, French and Dutch. Additionally, she assisted the Dutch Liaison Officer in organising visits and conferences for groups from the Netherlands.

    “When I worked in the Visits Section, I realised how important communication was for NATO’s image. It was a difficult time for the Alliance because of the protests against the storage of cruise missiles on European military bases in the 1980s and nuclear activism demonstrations, so when I was offered the position of personal assistant to soon-to-be Spokesperson Jamie Shea at the Press Office, I accepted it immediately.”

    Working with the NATO Spokespersons

    From 1995 to 2011, Hedwige served as the principal assistant to the NATO Spokesperson, working with Jamie Shea, Yves Brodeur, James Appathurai and Oana Lungescu. Hedwige’s main role was to organise interviews for the Spokesperson, the NATO Secretary General and other NATO officials with journalists and media outlets from all over the world, and to accompany the Spokesperson to NATO summits and ministerial meetings abroad.

    During her sixteen years working for the NATO Spokesperson, Hedwige witnessed key episodes in the Alliance’s history. One particularly challenging moment was the Kosovo crisis in 1999. The pace of work was relentless, with daily press conferences, non-stop calls, long working hours and a considerable amount of stress as Spokesperson Jamie Shea explained NATO’s intervention over a 78-day air campaign to halt the humanitarian catastrophe.

    “The Kosovo crisis was probably the most intense period of my career at NATO. Every day felt like a summit day. At the time, our offices were located in the entrance hall of the press building, and journalists would constantly approach us until a Media Operations Centre was created in the secure zone.”

    Another key event of 1999 was NATO’s 50th anniversary summit in Washington, D.C. – where the North Atlantic Treaty had been signed in 1949.

    “I remember this meeting as being quite historical, because the Heads of State and Government of the new NATO members – Czechia, Hungary and Poland – were participating in their first NATO summit meeting,” Hedwige recalls. “This was also the time when I first visited the CNN studios, where I met my media contact for many years to come.”

    The 9/11 terrorist attacks

    The 9/11 terrorist attacks were a turning point in NATO’s history. Hedwige remembers the moment she learned about the collapse of the World Trade Center in New York City and the never-ending night when the crisis team scrambled to understand what had happened, with no sustenance other than leftover birthday cake.

    “Then-Spokesperson Yves Brodeur had just briefed a group of Finnish journalists when he returned to the office and told me to turn on the TV to see the images of the plane impact. Essential staff were required to stay working that night while all catering facilities were closed on the premises. It also happened to be the birthday of Jamie Shea, at the time the Director of Information and Press, and his cake was the only thing to eat all evening and night, and it had to be shared with approximately 20 people.”

    Over the following days and weeks, Hedwige supported the Spokesperson and the Secretary General as they communicated NATO’s response to the world – including the invocation of Article 5 for the first time in NATO’s history.

    During her time as contact point for international journalists, Hedwige learned about some of the professional difficulties they faced, particularly when it came to covering NATO’s meetings abroad. For this reason, on the occasion of the Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Reykjavik in May 2002, Hedwige established a partnership with the Belgian Ministry of Defence that allowed her to use one of their planes as a means of transportation for journalists to such events. Hedwige’s creativity and innovation were commended by Secretary General Lord Robertson with NATO’s Award of Excellence, a recognition dedicated to honouring the professionalism of hard-working NATO staff members.

    Life after NATO

    Hedwige retired from NATO in 2011 and currently lives in Provence, France. She has become a keen gardener and helps to organise visits to the gardens in the region for the organisation ‘Mediterranean Gardening France’.

    Hedwige Lauwaert’s message for the Alliance’s 75th anniversary

    “It is probably a cliché, but I hope that NATO will be around for another 75 years, and longer, to make sure that future generations will live in peace.

    There have always been difficult periods in NATO’s history, and frequently its relevance was put into question, but in the current hostile world, NATO is the only guarantee to stability and hopefully peace.”

    This article is part of the 75th anniversary #WeAreNATO series.

    These interviews feature former NATO staff members who share their personal stories and first-hand experiences related to the Alliance’s key moments and historic turning points, such as the Cold War and 1989, the first out-of-area missions, partnerships, 9/11 and more.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Kaspersky uncovers new Grandoreiro light variant, the threat also expands to Asia and Africa

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

    JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, October 23, 2024/APO Group/ —

    Despite the arrest of important operators in early 2024, Grandoreiro continues to be used by its partners in new campaigns. Kaspersky Global Research and Analysis team (GReAT) (www.Kaspersky.co.za) has discovered a new light version focused on Mexico targeting around 30 banks. These findings are to be highlighted at the Security Analyst Summit (SAS) 2024. Remaining one of the most active threats globally and targeting users of more than 1,700 banks, Grandoreiro variants account for around five percent of banking trojan attacks this year.  Mexico is one of the most targeted countries by various Grandoreiro strains, including the new light version, seeing 51,000 recorded incidents this year.

    Kaspersky data indicates Grandoreiro has been active since 2016. In 2024, the threat targets more than 1,700 financial institutions and 276 cryptocurrency wallets across 45 countries and territories, lastly adding Asia and Africa to the list of its targets, making it a truly global financial threat. Among countries affected in Africa are Algeria, Angola, Ethiopia, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Mozambique, Nigeria, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda.

    After assisting an INTERPOL-coordinated action, which has led to Brazilian authorities arresting (http://apo-opa.co/3BUqgrb) operators behind a Grandoreiro banking trojan operation, Kaspersky discovered that the group’s codebase has been split into lighter, fragmented versions of the trojan, to continue its attacks. Recent analysis has identified a specific light version focused primarily on Mexico, which has been used to target approximately 30 financial institutions. The creators likely have access to the source code and are launching new campaigns using the simplified legacy malware.

    “All the recent developments underscore the evolving nature of the threat. Fragmented and lighter versions may represent a trend that could extend beyond Mexico and into other regions, including beyond Latin America. However, we believe that only some trusted affiliates have access to the malware source code to develop such lighter versions. Grandoreiro operates differently from the traditional ‘Malware-as-a-Service’ model we are accustomed to. You won’t find announcements on underground forums selling the Grandoreiro package; instead, access to it appears to be limited,” explains Fabio Assolini, head of the Latin American (GReAT) at Kaspersky.

    Multiple variants of Grandoreiro, including the new light version and the primary malware, accounted for approximately five percent of global banking trojan attacks detected by Kaspersky in 2024, making it one of the most active threats worldwide. Kaspersky has also analysed the newer samples of the primary Grandoreiro from 2024, and observed new tactics. It records mouse activity to mimic real user patterns, aiming to evade detection by machine learning-based security systems that analyse behaviour. By replaying natural mouse movements, the malware aims to trick anti-fraud tools into seeing the activity as legitimate.

    Additionally, Grandoreiro has adopted a cryptographic technique known as Ciphertext Stealing (CTS), which Kaspersky has never seen being used in malware. In this case, its aim is to encrypt the malicious code strings. “Grandoreiro has a large and complex structure, which would make it easier for security tools or analysts to detect if its strings were not encrypted. This is likely why they introduced this new technique – to complicate the detection and analysis of their attacks,” Fabio Assolini elaborated.

    To protect from financial malware, Kaspersky security experts recommend organisations to:

    • Enable a Default Deny policy for critical user profiles, particularly those in financial departments; this ensures that only legitimate web resources can be accessed.
    • Provide cybersecurity awareness training (http://apo-opa.co/4e3nlKa) to staff, especially to employees responsible for accounting, that includes instructions on how to detect phishing pages.
    • Use protection solutions for mail servers with anti-phishing capabilities such as Kaspersky Security for Mail Server, to decrease the chance of infection through a phishing email.

    While banks should educate its customers, individuals are advised to:

    • Never open links or documents included in unexpected or suspicious-looking messages. Be attentive to web pages – from the right web address to details of interface.
    • Use a reliable security solution, such as Kaspersky Premium (http://apo-opa.co/4dWrbEW), that protect digital assets from a wide range of financial cyberthreats.
    • Install only applications obtained from reliable sources.
    • Refrain from approving rights or permissions requested by applications without first ensuring they match the application’s feature set.
    • Install the latest updates and patches for all software used.

    Read more on Securelist (http://apo-opa.co/3C4N5bD). The comprehensive Grandoreiro analysis and overview is to be presented by GReAT at Kaspersky’s sixteenth Security Analyst Summit (SAS) (http://apo-opa.co/3BPHtly), which takes place from October 22-25, 2024, in Bali.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Cuba: Amnesty declares four new prisoners of conscience in midst of new wave of state repression

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Widespread state repression has been enforced since the July 2021 protests, but a renewed effort to suppress dissent began this September

    Félix Navarro, Dama de Blanco Sayli Navarro, Roberto Pérez Fonseca and Luis Robles have been named as prisoners of conscience

    ‘This is a recognition of the courage and resistance of the people of Cuba who … fighting for their rights and the rights of all people’ – Ana Piquer

    Amnesty International has declared political dissident Félix Navarro, independent journalist Dama de Blanco Sayli Navarro, 11J protester Roberto Pérez Fonseca and activist Luis Robles as prisoners of conscience.

    These designations come in the context of renewed repression by the Cuban authorities against activists, human rights defenders, journalists, intellectuals and independent media in the last weeks of September. This includes an alarming increase in ill-treatment, harassment, arbitrary detentions, new threats of criminalisation, denial of prison benefits and worrying reports of deterioration in the health and physical integrity of detainees.

    Ana Piquer, Director of the Americas at Amnesty International, said:

    “These designations are a recognition of the dozens of people who remain in prison in Cuba for peacefully exercising their rights, and of all those who live under constant surveillance, harassment and the threat of criminalisation. This is a recognition of the courage and resistance of the people of Cuba who are standing up to constant and generalised repression and fighting for their rights and the rights of all people.

    “Following the widespread state repression unleashed by the July 2021 protests, and with many activists, political opponents and dissidents unjustly imprisoned, the Cuban state seems intent on eradicating any capacity for resistance within Cuban society, which now extends to projects, spaces and activism not linked to traditional political opposition or dissidence.

    “It is imperative that the international community show solidarity and demand the immediate release of those imprisoned for exercising their rights, and an end to the repression and harassment of dissidents in Cuba.”

    Prisoners of conscience

    • Félix Navarro is a 71-year-old political dissident and founder of the “Pedro Luis Boitel” Party for Democracy. For over 30 years, he has been the coordinator of the Patriotic Union of Cuba and has been associated with the Cuba Decides platform and the Council for the Democratic Transition in Cuba. Félix is currently serving his third prison sentence for political reasons. He was imprisoned in 1992 on charges of “enemy propaganda” for putting up “anti-revolution” posters in his hometown. In 2003, he was sentenced to 25 years in prison in the criminal proceedings following the crackdown known as the “Black Spring”, along with 75 other dissidents, journalists and activists. In this context, he was declared a prisoner of conscience by Amnesty. He was released on extra-penal leave on 23 March 2011, together with fellow prisoner of conscience José Daniel Ferrer, as the last of the group of 75 to be freed after previously refusing to be released in exchange for exile.
    • Sayli Navarro, Félix Navarro’s daughter, is a 38-year-old activist and co-founder of the Damas de Blanco (Ladies in White), a group of mothers, wives and daughters of the group of 75 people arrested during the “Black Spring”. Sayli has lived with the consequences of the state repression exercised against her father since she was a child. She was expelled from university in 2010 because of her “counter-revolutionary links”, and has been arbitrarily detained, subjected to interrogation and threatened on a number of occasions by state security agents and police authorities.  

    Félix and Sayli Navarro were sentenced in March 2022 to 9 and 8 years in prison respectively for events related to the protests of July 2021. Both were violently arrested on 12 July at their local police station in the town of Perico, Matanzas province, when they went to enquire about the situation of members of their movement who had been arrested during the protests the day before.  

    • Luis Robles, 32, was sentenced to four years and six months in prison in March 2022 on charges of enemy propaganda and disobedience for peacefully protesting on a pedestrian street in central Havana in December 2020. Luis was holding up a sign that read “Freedom”, “No+Repression” and “#Free-Denis” while walking in circles as dozens of people began to film him. Luis held up the sign for several minutes until the police approached him, took the sign from him and arrested him, with Luis putting up no resistance. This happened a few days after the San Isidro Movement staged a lockdown and hunger strike to demand the release of rapper Denis Solís. Luis wanted to express his solidarity with the rapper and the San Isidro Movement.
    • Roberto Pérez Fonseca, 41, was sentenced in October 2021 to 10 years imprisonment for his participation in the protests of July 2021. Roberto was charged with the offences of contempt, assault, public disorder and incitement to commit a crime, all of which are typically used by the Cuban authorities against those who exercise their right to freedom of peaceful assembly and association. The United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention found Roberto’s detention to be arbitrary and motivated by the peaceful exercise of his right to freedom of assembly and association, as well as to freedom of opinion and expression. It also found that Roberto’s right to a fair and impartial trial had been violated.

    Climate of repression

    Independent media organisations El Toque, Periodismo de Barrio and Cubanet have claimed in editorials and on social media that their contributors have received threats of criminalisation from the authorities in recent weeks. According to these reports, contributors have repeatedly been summoned by police and state security agents and informed of possible criminal prosecution for “mercenarism”. In addition, activists and independent media contributors reported on their social networks that they had received arbitrary summonses followed by interrogations by the authorities and state security agents about their journalistic work and their links to certain individuals or media outlets considered to be “counter-revolutionary”.

    Amnesty has had access to the testimonies of at least 20 activists who have reported being threatened with imprisonment, forced to record themselves and sign declarations of self-incrimination, and deprived of their mobile phones and computers. Similarly, Cuban human rights organisations reported that at least three independent media contributors were forced to write public resignations on their social networks, expressing their intention not to work with independent media.

    On 16 September, cultural magazine PM Magazine announced that it was closing down permanently due to increasing pressure and harassment against its director by state security agents.

    Ana Piquer said:

    “This climate of constant fear and intimidation adds to our concern at the continuing reports of the deteriorating health and ill-treatment of prisoners of conscience Loreto Hernández, Pedro Albert and José Daniel Ferrer, and the increasing and systematic harassment of journalist Carlos Michael Morales, and Damas de Blanco leader Berta Soler.”

    Amnesty calls for the immediate and unconditional release of prisoners of conscience, and of all those unjustly imprisoned solely for exercising their human rights. The organisation also calls on the government of Miguel Díaz-Canel to respect human rights, including the right to freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly, to repeal repressive legislation, and to end the repression of dissidents.

    In order to determine whether a person is a prisoner of conscience, Amnesty uses the information available to it regarding the circumstances leading to their detention. By designating a particular person as a prisoner of conscience, Amnesty is affirming that this person must be immediately and unconditionally released but is not endorsing their past or present views or conduct.

    MIL OSI NGO –