Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)
Did you know that some spouses, survivors, and dependent children are eligible for VA benefits?
Learn more at https://www.va.gov/family-and-caregiver-benefits/
Blog
-
MIL-OSI Video: FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell Daily Press Briefing – October 11th, 2024
Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)
FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell hosts a virtual briefing on Friday to discuss FEMA’s actions responding to Hurricane Milton and the ongoing recovery efforts for Hurricane Helene.
*Disclaimer: Audio is choppy for the first 9 minutes, and this is an audio only recording.*
Administrator’s Opening Remarks:
Good afternoon, everyone. I’m coming to you from Martin County and Port St. Lucie, Florida to provide updates on early recovery efforts to Hurricane Milton and the incredible work being done to help people recover from Hurricane Helene.
My heart goes out to all those impacted by these two storms, and I want to assure you that the Biden-Harris Administration is committed to being with those impacted every step of the way as they jumpstart their recovery.
I spent yesterday and today visiting communities across Florida, assessing damage and meeting with survivors.
I saw neighbors helping neighbors and communities coming together during this difficult time.
In fact, I just came back from a community event where organizations have banded together to serve barbeque and other hot meals to people who have been impacted by devastating tornados caused by Hurricane Milton.
When people picture hurricanes, wind and floods most often come to mind. But Milton was a stark reminder of the threat tornados pose and the importance of heeding the warnings provided by emergency alerts.
Over 30 (38) tornados touched down as Milton swept across the state. As we surveyed the damage, we saw dozens of homes completely destroyed.
Our strong partnership with Florida enabled us to take swift action to pre-position people, resources and supplies so we could be prepared to meet the needs of survivors as soon as it was safe to do so. I want to recognize the heroic work of first responders and rescue teams, many of which FEMA brought in from across the country before the storm. Together, we were ready for a catastrophic storm.
While the wind and storm surge impacts from Milton were less than originally forecast on Florida’s west coast, the tornado damage in the eastern parts of the state showed that this was a statewide disaster that will require the whole federal family to support Florida’s recovery.
Today, I want to break down for you exactly what we are doing to help the state and Floridians recover from both storms.
I am committed to ensuring people get the help they need and deserve to make a full recovery. In fact, I’m pleased to share that we have already flowed over $150 million dollars to Floridians from Helene alone. Just this morning, Governor DeSantis submitted an expedited Major Disaster Declaration for Hurricane Milton, and I have directed my team to process the request as quickly as possible to open up FEMA’s programs immediately.
I will be heading back to North Carolina tonight, and I look forward to seeing our progress there. My Deputy Administrator, Erik Hooks, a North Carolina native, has been on the ground the last few days.
The President and Vice President have called on me to do everything I can to help people recover and my leadership team on the ground across the southeast continues to work every day to do just that.
As I look back on nearly two weeks in the field since the onset of Helene, I have seen people rise above unimaginable tragedy and communities come together to mend each other’s hearts. Helping people is a simple human reaction, and that’s what we’ll continue to do. -
MIL-OSI Video: Secretary Pete visits FEMA HQ
Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)
Dedicated public servants at FEMA’s National Response Coordination Center are working tirelessly to support those affected by Milton and Helene. Their commitment to helping communities recover is inspiring.
-
MIL-OSI Video: Middle East: “Region on the brink of an all-out war” – DPPA Briefing | United Nations
Source: United Nations (Video News)
Remarks by Ms. Rosemary A. DiCarlo, Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, on the situation in the Middle East – Security Council, 9746th meeting.
———————–
The Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs Rosemary DiCarlo told the Security Council that “the devastating conflict in Lebanon, coupled with intensified strikes in Syria and the raging violence in Gaza and the occupied West Bank, points to a region dangerously teetering on the brink of an all-out war” and said, “our collective inability to stop the violence and stem the bloodshed is damning.”
DiCarlo said, “Hizbullah and other non-state armed groups must stop firing rockets and missiles into Israel. We urge Israel to stop its bombardment of Lebanon and to withdraw its ground forces. The parties must seize the diplomatic options put on the table before them, not the weapons by their side.”
She urged the parties to commit to a return to a cessation of hostilities, and the full implementation of Security Council resolutions 1559 (2004) and 1701 (2006).
DiCarlo said, “the Lebanese state must have control over all weapons within its territory. We see what happens when it does not. The political impasse for the election of a president is approaching two years. At this time of crisis, I urge Lebanon’s political leaders to take resolute steps towards addressing the vacuum.”
She added, “the state sovereignty and territorial integrity of both Lebanon and Israel must be respected.”
-
MIL-OSI Video: UN Chief urges efforts to advance peace in Myanmar
Source: United Nations (Video News)
Declaring that the people of Myanmar need peace, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres called on countries to leverage their influence towards an inclusive political solution to the conflict there. In remarks to reporters in Laos, he also said priority should go to the protection of civilians in line with international humanitarian law.
-
MIL-OSI Submissions: Africa – Huawei opens registration for the 2024-2025 ICT Competition in Kenya
Source: Huawei Kenya
· The competition targets university and technical college students studying ICT-related courses
Nairobi, Kenya: October 11, 2024 – Huawei Kenya has kicked off the registration for the 2024-2025 ICT Competition in collaboration with leading universities and TVET institutions in Kenya.
This annual competition is part of Huawei’s ongoing commitment to nurture digital talent and enhance ICT skills among the youth, aligning with Kenya’s digital transformation agenda.
The Huawei ICT Competition is designed to offer a platform for students to demonstrate their knowledge in key ICT areas such as networking, cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI), 5G, and cybersecurity. The competition gives students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience, access training resources, and network with industry professionals, ultimately contributing to the development of Kenya’s ICT sector.
“As we embark on the journey to create a digitally empowered Kenya, this competition is an integral part of developing the next generation of ICT leaders. Through initiatives like the ICT Competition, we are offering students in Kenya a platform to showcase their talent, gain practical skills, and contribute to the country’s digital economy,” said Michael Kamau, Partnerships and Corporate Affairs Manager at Huawei Kenya.
The competition offers participants a unique opportunity to sharpen their ICT skills, with access to free learning materials, expert mentorship, and industry-recognized certifications. Top-performing students also stand to win, and potential job offers at Huawei and its partners. It also offers winners the chance to represent Kenya on the global stage in the final rounds, competing against other bright finalists from across the world.
“The competition is also part of Huawei’s broader collaboration with Kenyan universities to integrate practical ICT training into academic curricula,” Mr. Kamau said.
Registration
The registration exercise for the 2024-2025 ICT Competition will run until November 30, 2024. with several rounds of the competition taking place, including a national qualifier, regional semifinals, and the global finals in mid-2025.University and technical college students studying ICT-related courses are encouraged to register for the competition via the link: https://e.huawei.com/en/talent/ict-academy/#/ict-contest?compId=85131998
Huawei has been a key partner in Kenya’s digital transformation efforts, providing cutting-edge ICT solutions and nurturing local talent through training programs such as the Huawei Seeds for the Future and the ICT Academy, alongside the annual ICT Competition.
-
MIL-OSI China: Iran rejects claims linking Tehran to Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack on Israel
Source: China State Council Information Office
Smoke billows following an Israeli airstrike in Gaza City on Oct. 7, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua]
Iran’s permanent mission to the United Nations in New York rejected on Saturday claims linking Tehran to Hamas’ October 7 surprise attack on Israel, according to the official news agency IRNA.
In a statement, the Iranian mission responded to questions from The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal regarding Israel’s claim of having access to minutes from Hamas’ secret meetings, which allegedly indicated Tehran was informed of the group’s plan for the October 7 attack, the report said.
“While Hamas officials based in (the Qatari capital) Doha have announced that they had no information about the operation and solely Hamas’ military wing based in Gaza had been responsible for the planning, deciding about and directing the operation, any claim aiming to partially or entirely link the operation to Iran or Hezbollah is invalid and comes from fabricated documents,” said the mission.
The New York Times reported on Saturday that minutes of Hamas’ secret meetings, seized by the Israeli military and obtained by the American newspaper, provided a detailed record of the planning for the Oct. 7 attack, as well as the determination of Yahya Sinwar, Hamas’ incumbent political bureau chief, to persuade the Palestinian group’s allies, Iran and Hezbollah, to join the operation or at least commit to a broader fight with Israel if Hamas staged a surprise cross-border raid.
On Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas launched an unprecedented attack on southern Israel, killing around 1,200 people and taking approximately 250 hostages. In response, the Israeli military has been conducting a large-scale offensive on Gaza.
Iranian officials have consistently stated that while Iran supports Palestinian resistance groups, including Hamas, it had no prior knowledge of the attack on Israel and was not involved in its execution.
-
MIL-OSI China: Vice premier stresses delivery of homes to stabilize property sector
Source: China State Council Information Office 3
Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng has called for efforts to ensure the delivery of homes, and increase loans for real estate projects under the “white list” mechanism in order to facilitate the bottoming out of the housing market.
He, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks during an investigation and research trip to Taiyuan, Shanxi and Xi’an, Shaanxi from Thursday to Saturday.
The property market is a barometer of the macroeconomy, and doing a good job in the sector is crucial for promoting sustained economic recovery and safeguarding the vital interests of the people, he said.
China in January announced a plan to establish a financing coordination mechanism for the real estate sector with the aim of satisfying the legitimate financing needs of property projects on the “white list” and supporting the stable and sound growth of the market.
He urged giving full play to the role of the real estate financing coordination mechanisms, and accelerating fixing problematic projects to meet the “white list” standards as soon as possible. Financial institutions should increase their efficiency in credit approval and loan disbursement, he said.
To ensure the quality and on-time delivery of homes, the vice premier called for further expanding the scopes of property projects under the mechanisms, by including all eligible commercial housing projects under construction and sold into the scope of support, and safeguarding the demand for project construction funds.
The acquisition of existing commercial housing for use as affordable housing should also be advanced, he said. The affordable housing re-lending policy should be implemented well in order to accelerate the reduction of inventory in the commercial housing market, he added.
He also visited large supermarkets in Taiyuan and key foreign trade enterprises in Xi’an to learn about trade-in programs for consumer goods and the export situation of enterprises.
-
MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s message on the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction: “The role of education in protecting and empowering youth for a disaster-free future” [scroll down for French version]
Source: United Nations secretary general
When disasters strike, they unleash enormous devastation on individuals, societies and economies. The ripple effects of death, destruction and displacement are unimaginable. Today, disasters are often supercharged by the climate crisis, increasing their frequency and intensity.
No one is safe, but children are particularly vulnerable. In recent years the number of children affected by destructive flooding worldwide has reached the highest levels in more than three decades. In the aftermath of a disaster, children face serious repercussions including disrupted education, nutrition and healthcare.
Yet children are more than victims of disaster. They have a huge stake in the future, and their ideas and innovations can help to reduce risk and build resilience.
As this year’s International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction reminds us, education is key for not only protecting children but enabling them to take part in decision-making to reduce risks for all.
All countries can take steps to reduce risks to children, by ensuring universal coverage of multi-hazard early warning systems, constructing and retrofitting disaster-resilient schools; signing up to the Comprehensive School Safety Framework; and providing young people with the space and tools to become champions of resilience.
On this International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, and every day, we owe it to future generations to shape a safer, more resilient tomorrow.
*****
Lorsque les catastrophes frappent, tout est dévasté : individus, sociétés, économies. La mort, la destruction et les déplacements ont des conséquences inimaginables. De nos jours, les catastrophes sont bien souvent aggravées par la crise climatique, qui en augmente la fréquence et l’intensité.Personne n’est à l’abri, mais les enfants sont particulièrement vulnérables. Ces dernières années, le nombre d’enfants touchés par des inondations destructrices à travers le monde a atteint son niveau le plus élevé depuis plus de trente ans. Les catastrophes laissent les enfants en proie à des situations critiques, telles que la perturbation de l’éducation, de la nutrition et des soins de santé.
Cependant, face aux catastrophes, les enfants ne sont pas seulement des victimes. Tout leur avenir est en jeu, et ils peuvent être sources d’idées et d’innovations propres à réduire les risques et à renforcer la résilience.
Comme nous le rappelle cette année la Journée internationale pour la réduction des risques de catastrophe, l’éducation est essentielle non seulement pour protéger les enfants, mais aussi pour leur permettre de participer à la prise de décision afin de réduire les risques pour toutes et tous.
Tous les pays peuvent prendre des mesures pour réduire les risques qui pèsent sur les enfants : ils peuvent universaliser la couverture des systèmes d’alerte précoce multidangers, construire ou moderniser des écoles de façon qu’elles résistent aux catastrophes, adhérer au Cadre global de sécurité scolaire ou encore offrir aux jeunes l’espace et les outils nécessaires pour qu’ils puissent devenir des champions de la résilience.
En cette Journée internationale pour la réduction des risques de catastrophe, et de manière générale, nous devons aux générations futures de leur offrir des lendemains plus sûrs et plus résilients.
-
MIL-OSI China: China rolls out measures to promote green finance
Source: China State Council Information Office
China has unveiled a guideline on the development of green finance, outlining 19 important measures for key areas to promote the building of a beautiful China.
Focusing on key areas such as the green development of key industries and ecological protection and restoration, China will work to create a project library for the building of a beautiful China and effectively improve the precision of financial support, according to the guideline jointly issued by four government agencies, including the People’s Bank of China and the Ministry of Ecology and Environment.
The guideline stresses enhancing the capacities of financial institutions to provide green financial services and enriching products and services for the area.
Efforts should be made to increase loan issuance and beef up financing support for green development, the document states.
It also calls for stepping up innovation in green financial products for key links and areas such as regional ecological and environmental protection projects, the development of the carbon market and green consumption.
A coordination mechanism across government agencies will be established to ensure implementation of these measures, the guideline says.
-
MIL-OSI China: China’s auto sector reports growth momentum
Source: China State Council Information Office
China’s automobile industry has revealed a growth trend, with its production and sales of vehicles increasing steadily in the first nine months of 2024, data from the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers showed on Saturday.
From January to September, China’s auto production totaled about 21.47 million units, up 1.9 percent year on year. Auto sales stood at 21.57 million units, an increase of 2.4 percent from the same period last year.
In September, auto production came in at nearly 2.8 million units, down 1.9 percent year on year, while monthly sales totaled about 2.81 million units, down 1.7 percent year on year.
China’s passenger vehicle market has been gradually picking up, with retail sales growing stronger in the third quarter of this year, thanks to government policies encouraging vehicle trade-ins and manufacturers launching new models during “Golden September and Silver October”, a peak period for car sales, said Chen Shihua, deputy secretary-general of the association.
In August, China increased the financial stimulus to encourage consumers to scrap their old vehicles and buy new ones. Subsidies for trade-ins of new-energy passenger vehicles have doubled from 10,000 yuan (about 1,414 U.S. dollars) to 20,000 yuan, while those for trade-ins of fuel passenger vehicles have been lifted from 7,000 yuan to 15,000 yuan.
-
MIL-OSI Security: Deep Brook — Missing youth: Help the RCMP find Summer Herman-Fontaine
Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police
Annapolis District RCMP is asking for the public’s assistance in locating 14-year-old Summer Herman-Fontaine, who was last seen in the early evening of October 12 in Deep Brook.
Summer Herman-Fontaine is described as being 4′ 8″, slim build, with dark hair. She was last seen wearing a pink jacket and blue jeans. She is believed to be on foot.
When someone goes missing, it has deep and far-reaching impacts for the person and those who know them. We ask that people spread the word respectfully.
Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Summer Herman-Fontaine is asked to contact Annapolis District RCMP at 902 665-4481 Should you wish to remain anonymous, call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at http://www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips App.
-
MIL-OSI Africa: Secretary-General’s message on the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction: “The role of education in protecting and empowering youth for a disaster-free future” [scroll down for French version]
Source: United Nations – English
hen disasters strike, they unleash enormous devastation on individuals, societies and economies. The ripple effects of death, destruction and displacement are unimaginable. Today, disasters are often supercharged by the climate crisis, increasing their frequency and intensity.
No one is safe, but children are particularly vulnerable. In recent years the number of children affected by destructive flooding worldwide has reached the highest levels in more than three decades. In the aftermath of a disaster, children face serious repercussions including disrupted education, nutrition and healthcare.
Yet children are more than victims of disaster. They have a huge stake in the future, and their ideas and innovations can help to reduce risk and build resilience.
As this year’s International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction reminds us, education is key for not only protecting children but enabling them to take part in decision-making to reduce risks for all.
All countries can take steps to reduce risks to children, by ensuring universal coverage of multi-hazard early warning systems, constructing and retrofitting disaster-resilient schools; signing up to the Comprehensive School Safety Framework; and providing young people with the space and tools to become champions of resilience.
On this International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, and every day, we owe it to future generations to shape a safer, more resilient tomorrow.
*****
Lorsque les catastrophes frappent, tout est dévasté : individus, sociétés, économies. La mort, la destruction et les déplacements ont des conséquences inimaginables. De nos jours, les catastrophes sont bien souvent aggravées par la crise climatique, qui en augmente la fréquence et l’intensité.Personne n’est à l’abri, mais les enfants sont particulièrement vulnérables. Ces dernières années, le nombre d’enfants touchés par des inondations destructrices à travers le monde a atteint son niveau le plus élevé depuis plus de trente ans. Les catastrophes laissent les enfants en proie à des situations critiques, telles que la perturbation de l’éducation, de la nutrition et des soins de santé.
Cependant, face aux catastrophes, les enfants ne sont pas seulement des victimes. Tout leur avenir est en jeu, et ils peuvent être sources d’idées et d’innovations propres à réduire les risques et à renforcer la résilience.
Comme nous le rappelle cette année la Journée internationale pour la réduction des risques de catastrophe, l’éducation est essentielle non seulement pour protéger les enfants, mais aussi pour leur permettre de participer à la prise de décision afin de réduire les risques pour toutes et tous.
Tous les pays peuvent prendre des mesures pour réduire les risques qui pèsent sur les enfants : ils peuvent universaliser la couverture des systèmes d’alerte précoce multidangers, construire ou moderniser des écoles de façon qu’elles résistent aux catastrophes, adhérer au Cadre global de sécurité scolaire ou encore offrir aux jeunes l’espace et les outils nécessaires pour qu’ils puissent devenir des champions de la résilience.
En cette Journée internationale pour la réduction des risques de catastrophe, et de manière générale, nous devons aux générations futures de leur offrir des lendemains plus sûrs et plus résilients.
-
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CE congratulates Sam Hou-fai on election as Chief Executive-elect of Macao SAR
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
​The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, today (October 13) congratulated Mr Sam Hou-fai on being elected as the sixth-term Chief Executive-elect of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR).
Mr Lee said, “Mr Sam has been serving as the President of the Court of Final Appeal of Macao since the establishment of the Macao SAR, leading the courts of Macao in performing judicial functions and contributing significantly to the long-term prosperity and stability of Macao. He has remained committed to serving Macao over the years and made immense contributions. I congratulate Mr Sam on being elected as the sixth-term Chief Executive-elect of the Macao SAR and on leading Macao to new heights again.
“Hong Kong and Macao enjoy close geographical ties and share the same cultural roots. Our two places share deep bonds and affinity with frequent people-to-people and cultural exchanges, alongside solid economic and trade relations. As the country’s SARs, both Hong Kong and Macao firmly uphold the principle of ‘one country’ and leverage the benefits of ‘two systems’. As participants and beneficiaries of the country’s reform and opening up, Hong Kong and Macao enjoy the advantages of ‘one country, two systems’, and can directly tap into the huge markets of the Mainland, whilst staying connected to the world. On the other hand, Hong Kong and Macao are both core cities of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and are engines for regional development. I have every confidence in working closely with Mr Sam in the future to achieve complementarity and mutual benefits for Hong Kong and Macao, giving full play to the cities’ strengths to serve the country’s needs and making new and greater contributions to building a great country and moving towards national rejuvenation through Chinese modernisation.”
-
MIL-OSI China: Osaka Expo faces construction, ticket sales challenges ahead of opening
Source: China State Council Information Office
This photo taken on June 27, 2024 shows the construction site of the Grand Ring, the symbol for Expo 2025 Osaka, on the Yumeshima artificial island in Japan. [Photo/Xinhua]
The preparations for the 2025 World Exposition in the western Japanese city of Osaka are facing significant challenges six months ahead of its opening, local media reported.
One major concern is the delay in the construction of pavilions and other key facilities. Construction of many of the pavilions has fallen behind schedule, with concern growing some will not be completed by the opening, Kyodo News reported.
A plan to operate flying taxis, viewed as one of the event’s highlights, has been dropped after all four operators gave up on carrying passengers in their electric aircraft due to safety challenges, according to the report.
As of Oct. 6, over 7 million tickets had been sold, half of the 14 million advance tickets aimed for, the report cited organizers, adding some officials from participating companies say they are not very optimistic about sales.
The World Expo 2025 is scheduled to be held from April 13 to Oct. 13, 2025, on the artificial island of Yumeshima in Osaka Bay.
The budget for construction has grown 1.9-fold from the original plan to 235 billion yen (about $1.6 billion) and that for operation of the venue has risen 1.4-fold to 116 billion yen (about $780 million).
-
MIL-OSI China: Scotland’s former First Minister Alex Salmond dies
Source: China State Council Information Office
Scotland’s former First Minister Alex Salmond has passed away at the age of 69, local media reported on Saturday.
Salmond took ill and collapsed while giving a speech in North Macedonia earlier today, according to the BBC. So far, the cause of his death has not yet been officially disclosed.
His passing was described as sudden and unexpected. Anas Sarwar, leader of Scottish Labour, told local media that the news of Salmond’s passing came “as a shock to all who knew him in Scotland, across the UK (the United Kingdom) and beyond.”
Salmond, a former member of Parliament, served as Scotland’s first minister between 2007 and 2014.
He led the Scottish National Party (SNP) to power after winning the Scottish Parliament election in 2007. A passionate advocate for Scottish independence, he resigned as first minister after 55 percent of Scottish voters backed remaining in the UK in the 2014 referendum.
In 2021, he formed the pro-independence Alba Party, following his resignation from the SNP three years earlier.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer paid his tribute to Salmond, calling him a “monumental figure of Scottish and UK politics” who leaves behind a “lasting legacy.”
-
MIL-OSI China: Bumpy start for UK’s new Labour government
Source: China State Council Information Office
People attend the Labour Party Conference in Liverpool, Britain, on Sept. 23, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
As the United Kingdom’s Labour government marks 100 days in office on Saturday, political commentators are markedly less enthusiastic than in the aftermath of the party’s landslide win in the July 4 general election. Instead, they are asking whether Labour will be able to get back on course after an apparently bumpy start.
Labour had been in opposition since 2010 before Prime Minister Keir Starmer led the party to victory this year, securing a massive 174-seat majority in the UK parliament.
The honeymoon period of popularity enjoyed by a new government was short-lived for Starmer, however, as his government’s accomplishments so far have been overshadowed by moves including the deeply unpopular plans to cut winter fuel benefits for pensioners.
Among the most-touted achievements during Starmer’s first 100 days in power are the government’s success in resolving the junior doctors’ and train drivers’ strikes, cancelling the controversial Rwanda scheme proposed by the previous Conservative government, making good progress in launching GB Energy and scrapping no-fault evictions for tenants. Starmer’s handling of the far-right riots that rocked the country this summer has also been applauded.
On Thursday, the government also unveiled the Employment Rights Bill, outlining reforms aimed at boosting economic growth and upgrading workers’ rights across the country. Official figures on Friday showed that the UK economy returned to growth in August after flatlining for two months, a welcome boost for the government.
However, the government has come under fire for announcing plans to scrap winter fuel allowances worth up to 300 British pounds (392 U.S. dollars) for 10 million pensioners, and refusing to lift a two-child cap on child benefit.
There has also been heavy criticism of Starmer for accepting thousands of pounds from a wealthy party donor to pay for clothes. Other Labour ministers have also received free gifts including tickets for major sporting events and Taylor Swift concerts.
Professor Iain Begg from the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) told Xinhua: “Labour, in power for its first 100 days, has been frantic. It’s had considerable difficulties and shown a lack of political experience, but it’s also tried to push forward a very large number of agenda items which had been lapsed under the previous administrations.”
“The verdict, therefore, is a rather checkered one,” Begg said.
An Opinium poll revealed in late September that Starmer’s approval rating had plunged below that of the Tory leader Rishi Sunak, suffering a huge 45-point drop since July. Meanwhile, a YouGov poll revealed this week that Starmer is now as unpopular as the controversial Brexiteer Nigel Farage.
Nevertheless, Begg said that in British politics, a government will often make tough decisions and policy announcements in its first year in power, leaving another four years to turn such decisions around.
“It’s fair to say that Starmer can expect a few more storms over the next year or so, until some of his initiatives start to show that they’re genuinely making a difference. There’ll be easy tests for the public to apply and if he passes those tests, he’ll be seen as a more successful prime minister than maybe he has been in his first 100 days,” he said.
Andrew Roe-Crines, a researcher in British politics at the University of Liverpool, thinks the Budget will be an opportunity for Starmer and his party to sway public opinion when it is delivered on Oct. 30.
“If they are right and they’re able to show this in the Budget by being able to invest in things which people expect to see, then maybe there’s hope for positive things later down the line,” Roe-Crines told Xinhua.
-
MIL-OSI China: Hamas claims killing, wounding of Israeli soldiers in N. Gaza
Source: China State Council Information Office
The al-Qassam Brigades, the armed wing of Hamas, announced on Saturday that they had killed and injured members of a 15-person Israeli patrol by detonating a powerful explosive device in northern Gaza City.
In a press statement, the Brigades said that their forces targeted the Israeli patrol as it attempted to raid a house west of the Jabalia camp in northern Gaza.
Members of the patrol were either killed or injured, the statement said, without providing further details. The Israeli army has not yet commented on the incident.
In separate statements, the Brigades claimed that their forces had shelled a gathering of Israeli troops east of the Jabalia camp with mortar fire, and targeted an Israeli Merkava tank with a missile in the Tawam area north of Gaza City.
The Brigades did not mention the casualties of the two attacks.
These developments came amid a large-scale operation by the Israeli army in Jabalia and surrounding areas for about a week, along with a blockade imposed on the residents there.
On Oct. 6, the Israeli army’s spokesman Avichai Adraee announced that the Jabalia area had been “encircled.” He explained that the operation was based on prior intelligence indicating the presence of armed elements and infrastructure, along with efforts by Hamas to rebuild its militant capabilities.
For its part, the Civil Defense Authority in Gaza warned on Saturday that 200,000 Palestinians in Jabalia face the risk of death either from Israeli shelling or from hunger and thirst, amid a land blockade that has been ongoing for the seventh consecutive day.
Spokesman Mouhammed Bassil said that the Israeli army “has not allowed medical teams and civil defense personnel to obtain fuel and medical supplies, which negatively impacts the situation of the besieged citizens.”
Bassil called on international organizations to fulfill their humanitarian duty to protect the residents of Jabalia in northern Gaza.
Meanwhile, the World Food Program (WFP) warned that the escalating violence in northern Gaza is “having a disastrous impact on food security for thousands of Palestinian families,” noting that the main crossings into the north have been closed and no food aid has entered since Oct. 1.
In a statement, the WFP said food distribution points, as well as kitchens and bakeries in northern Gaza, have been forced to shut down due to airstrikes, military ground operations and evacuation orders. The only functioning bakery in the area, supported by the WFP, caught fire after being hit by an explosive munition.
-
MIL-OSI China: Chinese premier to attend SCO meeting, visit Pakistan
Source: China State Council Information Office
Chinese Premier Li Qiang will attend the 23rd Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of Member States of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) to be held in Islamabad and pay an official visit to Pakistan from October 14 to 17, at the invitation of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan, foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning announced on Sunday.
-
MIL-OSI China: Sam Hou Fai elected Macao SAR chief executive designate
Source: China State Council Information Office 2
Sam Hou Fai was elected by an overwhelming majority as the sixth-term chief executive designate of China’s Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) on Sunday, pending appointment by the Central People’s Government.
He won the election with 394 votes in favor out of 398 valid ballots. Song Man Lei, president of the Electoral Affairs Commission for the Chief Executive Election, announced Sam the winner.
According to Macao’s Chief Executive Election Law, an election is valid if two-thirds of the 400-member election committee are present to vote. To be elected, a candidate must receive support from more than half of the total members of the committee, which is at least 200 votes.
As prescribed by the Basic Law of the Macao SAR, the chief executive is elected by a broadly representative Chief Executive Election Committee and is then appointed by the Central People’s Government. The chief executive serves a five-year term and may be re-elected once. -
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Man arrested following Dairy Flat incident
Source: New Zealand Police (District News)
A man has been arrested after allegedly stealing a vehicle in Point Chevalier before being involved in a multi-vehicle crash on the northern motorway, near Dairy Flat.
Around 2:40pm Police responded to Walmer Road, Point Chevalier, after a man allegedly attempted to steal a vehicle from an elderly woman before stealing a vehicle from a second person on the same road. Luckily no serious injuries were sustained.
Police maintained observations of the vehicle to northern motorway with the assistance of the Air Support Unit and traffic cameras.
Inspector Daniel Meade says a pursuit was not initiated due to safety concerns. Instead, Police attempted to spike the vehicle, however the driver continued.
“At around 3pm the driver came to a stop following a multi-vehicle crash where the vehicle has rolled,” says Inspector Meade.
Two people, including the offender, received moderate injuries.
“While the offender was travelling along the northern motorway he has allegedly damaged a number of vehicles and knocked a motorcyclist off of their bike.
“The Serious Crash Unit have completed a scene examination and the road is due to be reopened within the next hour.”
Charges are being considered for the 34-year-old man and enquiries into the circumstances of the incident are ongoing.
The incident will be referred to the IPCA.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
-
MIL-OSI Australia: Update: fatal crash at Balhannah
Source: South Australia Police
A man has died after a motorcycle crashed at the intersection of Kerr Road and Beaumont Road, Balhannah, at 1pm on Sunday 13 October.
Sadly, the rider, a 48-year-old man from Greenhill, died at the scene
Road diversions remain in place and motorists are advised to avoid the area.
Anyone who witnessed the crash or who has dashcam footage that may assist the investigation is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at http://www.crimestopperssa.com.au
The man’s death is the 68th life lost on South Australian roads so far this year.
-
MIL-OSI China: Experts, officials call for stronger China-Africa cooperation via Global Development Initiative
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Experts, officials call for stronger China-Africa cooperation via Global Development Initiative
ADDIS ABABA, Oct. 13 — Experts and policymakers from various United Nations (UN) agencies, the African Union (AU) and African countries stressed the need to further bolster China-Africa cooperation across various sustainable development areas while attending a recent dialogue on the Global Development Initiative (GDI) here.
Addressing the gathering, Mohamed Belhocine, the AU Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology and Innovation, said China-Africa ties have evolved into “an outstanding and mutually beneficial partnership.”
Describing China-Africa cooperation as “a bright example of South-South cooperation that addresses and harnesses global challenges and opportunities in several priority areas,” the AU commissioner said the China-proposed GDI has the capacity to further strengthen the ever-growing China-Africa relationship and broaden South-South cooperation.
“The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Agenda 2063 (the AU’s 50-year continental development blueprint) both provide strategic frameworks for tackling issues confronting Africa and the world at large. In the same vein, the Global Development Initiative builds on the foundations of the SDGs to chart a path towards the realization of a global community,” said Belhocine.
Belhocine further said China-Africa cooperation has achieved mutually beneficial development outcomes over the years. “The Forum on China-Africa Cooperation is a vivid testament to the benefits of a partnership which covers science and technology, peace and security, climate change, education, agriculture, and information and communications technology, among many other sectors.”
Participants attending the high-level dialogue emphasized the critical need to promote synergy in development plans and strategies to enhance broader China-Africa cooperation as the two sides strive to realize the vision of the GDI.
Zhao Fengtao, vice chairman of the China International Development Cooperation Agency, highlighted China’s readiness to work with Africa to fully implement the GDI and continue to strengthen China-Africa development cooperation, ultimately contributing to advancing the modernization and building of a China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era.
“The GDI calls for staying committed to development as a priority, staying committed to a people-centered approach and staying committed to benefits for all,” Zhao said.
He also stressed China’s strong commitment to supporting Africa’s economic integration and modernization, improving the well-being of the African people and facilitating the implementation of the sustainable development agenda.
Teshale Berecha, Ethiopia’s state minister of labor and skills, said the “remarkable” China-Africa cooperation, which exemplifies the spirit of South-South cooperation, is a vivid manifestation of the two sides’ shared commitment to mutual growth, sustainable development and empowerment of the two peoples.
Highlighting some of the significant achievements of China’s cooperation with Ethiopia in particular and the wider African continent in general, the state minister said China has been a major partner for Ethiopia and beyond, particularly through its Belt and Road Initiative and other major development initiatives.
“Our collaboration has yielded significant advancements in the area of science and technology too,” he said. “The establishment of joint research centers and technology transfer initiatives has enabled us to harness our collective expertise and address pressing challenges.”
-
MIL-OSI China: Iran rejects claims linking Tehran to Hamas’ attack on Israel
Source: China State Council Information Office 3
Smoke billows following an Israeli airstrike in Gaza City on Oct. 7, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua]
Iran’s permanent mission to the United Nations in New York rejected on Saturday claims linking Tehran to Hamas’ October 7 surprise attack on Israel, according to the official news agency IRNA.
In a statement, the Iranian mission responded to questions from The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal regarding Israel’s claim of having access to minutes from Hamas’ secret meetings, which allegedly indicated Tehran was informed of the group’s plan for the October 7 attack, the report said.
“While Hamas officials based in (the Qatari capital) Doha have announced that they had no information about the operation and solely Hamas’ military wing based in Gaza had been responsible for the planning, deciding about and directing the operation, any claim aiming to partially or entirely link the operation to Iran or Hezbollah is invalid and comes from fabricated documents,” said the mission.
The New York Times reported on Saturday that minutes of Hamas’ secret meetings, seized by the Israeli military and obtained by the American newspaper, provided a detailed record of the planning for the Oct. 7 attack, as well as the determination of Yahya Sinwar, Hamas’ incumbent political bureau chief, to persuade the Palestinian group’s allies, Iran and Hezbollah, to join the operation or at least commit to a broader fight with Israel if Hamas staged a surprise cross-border raid.
On Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas launched an unprecedented attack on southern Israel, killing around 1,200 people and taking approximately 250 hostages. In response, the Israeli military has been conducting a large-scale offensive on Gaza.
Iranian officials have consistently stated that while Iran supports Palestinian resistance groups, including Hamas, it had no prior knowledge of the attack on Israel and was not involved in its execution.
-
MIL-OSI: Discover the SEP (Smart Energy Pay) Listing on XT Exchange
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
SINGAPORE, Oct. 13, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SEP (Smart Energy Pay) is excited to announce the listing of Smart Energy Pay (SEP) on XT Exchange. The SEP/USDT trading pair will be available in the Innovation Zone, offering a new opportunity for traders to engage with a blockchain project focused on transforming the energy sector. Please find the go-live schedule below:
- Deposit: 09:00 on October 13, 2024 (UTC)
- Trading: 09:00 on October 14, 2024 (UTC)
- Withdrawal: 09:00 on October 15, 2024 (UTC)
Trading pair link: https://www.xt.com/en/trade/sep_usdt
SEP’s listing on XT Exchange marks a significant step in bringing green energy to the forefront of the blockchain space. With this listing, SEP gains access to XT’s vast global community, enhancing its liquidity and providing exposure to a broader audience. By joining XT Exchange, SEP is poised to drive innovation in both the DeFi and renewable energy sectors, paving the way for a more sustainable future.
Albin Warin, CEO of XT Exchange, shared his thoughts on the listing: “We are proud to welcome Smart Energy Pay to our platform. SEP’s commitment to sustainable energy and innovation resonates with our mission to support transformative projects that make a difference. We believe that the listing of SEP will provide our users with substantial value and contribute to the advancement of both the blockchain and energy sectors.”
About XT
Founded in 2018, XT serves more than 7.8M registered users, over 1M monthly active users, 40+ million users in the ecosystem, and more than 800 tokens with 1000+ trading pairs. XT crypto exchange offers a rich variety of trading categories to provide a secure, trusted, and intuitive trading experience for its large user base. This includes crypto futures trading (USDT-M Futures and coin-M futures perpetual contracts) and copy trading that allows users to replicate top traders in real-time with just one click. Additionally, the futures grid allows users to automate the buying and selling of futures contracts for profits.
Website: https://www.xt.com/
Telegram: https://t.me/XTsupport_EN
About SEP (Smart Energy Pay)
Smart Energy Pay is at the forefront of combining blockchain technology with renewable energy solutions. SEP leverages its own blockchain to enable secure and transparent transactions within the energy sector. A unique feature of the SEP platform is its integration with a patented 3D wind device, which allows for the efficient generation of renewable energy. By blending decentralized finance (DeFi) with green energy, SEP aims to build sustainable and accessible energy markets that cater to both consumers and businesses.
Blockchain Explorer: https://secexplorer.io/
Whitepaper: https://smartenergypay.com/whitepaper
Social Links
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/smartenergypay/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smartenergypay/
Telegram: https://t.me/+BtBJIPxsn21iOGQ8
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@smart.energy.token
CoinMarketCap: https://coinmarketcap.com/community/profile/smartenergytoken/
Github: https://github.com/EtherAuthority/Smart-Contracts-Library
Press Contact
Brand: Smart Energy Provider Ltd.
Contact: Mr. Tahssin Asfour
Email: marketing@smartenergypay.com
Website: https://smartenergypay.com/
-
MIL-OSI China: Rural charms harvest online appeal
Source: China State Council Information Office 3
Mo (right) and his team livestream the benefits of pomelos. [Photo/Xinhua]
As the morning light streams through the window and roosters crow, Mo Zhou yawns, steps out, calls his dog, grabs his tools, and embarks on a day’s work.
The 26-year-old differs from other farmers in that he always carries a smartphone to record his day-today life. He’s a vlogger, filming snippets of rural life and traditional homemade food for his 12 million followers on short-video platform Douyin.
From traditional dishes to heartfelt narratives, his videos capture the essence of rural life, showcasing the beauty of his hometown and its culinary delights.
His recording of the tranquil village of Chenjiazhai in Tongren, Southwest China’s Guizhou province, has garnered a total of 320 million likes on Douyin. Named Zhouzhou on the platform, he has posted 577 videos.
I cherish the earthy scent I carry and hope to encourage more young people to stay in rural areas and contribute to their hometowns through my experiences,” Mo says.
Mo cuts preserved pork for a video shooting. [Photo/Xinhua]
Born to a rural family in 1998, Mo has two older sisters. His life changed when his mother was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015. To ease the financial burden, Mo decided to quit school and take care of his mother at home in 2019 as his mother’s health deteriorated.
Hearing about the man’s story, fellow villager Mo Zhilin found that Mo Zhou had the potential to become a vlogger by sharing his daily life. Later in 2020, Mo Zhilin, Mo Zhou, Mo Jun and Yang Xudong set up their e-commerce company.
Facing challenges with shyness and camera presence, Mo Zhou overcame his inhibitions by studying other accounts, taking online courses in video production and seeking advice from others on how to authentically showcase rural life and cuisine in his videos.
As their fan base grew, they raised the bar for video quality, embracing the natural rhythm of rural life. They sourced local ingredients based on the seasons, fostering a sense of nostalgia and connection with their audience.
“I will continue to anchor myself in the countryside, utilizing my online influence to capture and share more of Guizhou’s beauty, culture and culinary heritage,” the man says.
Since Li Ziqi, a rural Chinese woman, became an online sensation in the late 2010s, an increasing number of rural life vloggers have put their countryside in the frame.
Mo (right) and Yang Xudong promote kiwifruit online. [Photo/Xinhua]
Thanks to the popularity of short-video platforms, they share their lives online and use the internet as sales channels.
These channels not only bring higher incomes but also inject new life into the country’s rural vitalization.
Data from Douyin shows that last year, the platform had about 176 million rural content creators, posting more than 1 billion videos and selling about 4.73 billion orders of agricultural products.
According to data from the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, from 2012 to the end of 2022, over 12.2 million people had returned or moved to rural areas with the aspiration of starting businesses. The number is expected to reach 15 million by 2025.
-
MIL-OSI China: China Media Group airs 2024 Chongyang Festival Opera Gala
Source: China State Council Information Office 3
A Chinese opera artist performs in the Huguang Guild Hall in Beijing, China, October 11, 2024. [Photo courtesy of CMG]
The 2024 Chongyang Festival Opera Gala was held by China Media Group (CMG) on Friday, graced by many renowned Chinese opera artists.
Chongyang Festival, also known as the Double Ninth Festival, falls on the 9th day of the ninth lunar month on the Chinese lunar calendar. It fell on October 11 this year.
In Chinese folklore, the number nine is a homonym of the Chinese word “jiu,” which contains the auspicious meaning of “a long and healthy life.” It is an annual festival to show respect and care for the elderly throughout China.
The gala was held in the Huguang Guild Hall in Beijing, a theater with a history of 200 years. The gala saw performances from young and senior Chinese opera artists, stressing the importance of respecting and loving the elderly.
-
MIL-OSI China: Global artists celebrate Silk Road culture in NW China
Source: China State Council Information Office 3
An international arts festival opened on Saturday in the historic city of Xi’an in northwest China’s Shaanxi province, attracting artists to showcase their performances in an international arena.
The 10th Silk Road International Arts Festival, which is hosted by the provincial government of Shaanxi and will run until Nov. 10, has attracted artists from 15 countries and regions, according to the organizer of the event.
During the festival, 63 performances are scheduled to be staged. A series of activities will also take place during the festival, including shows and exhibitions.
The first Silk Road International Arts Festival was held in 2014.
-
MIL-OSI China: Sam Hou Fai elected Macao SAR’s sixth-term chief executive designate
Source: China State Council Information Office 3
Sam Hou Fai was elected by an overwhelming majority as the sixth-term chief executive designate of China’s Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) on Sunday.
He won the election with 394 votes in favor out of 398 valid ballots. Song Man Lei, president of the Electoral Affairs Commission for the Chief Executive Election, announced Sam the winner.
According to Macao’s Chief Executive Election Law, an election is valid if two-thirds of the 400-member election committee are present to vote. To be elected, a candidate must receive support from more than half of the committee’s members, which is at least 200 votes.
As prescribed by the Basic Law of the Macao SAR, the chief executive is elected by a broadly representative Chief Executive Election Committee and is then appointed by the Central People’s Government. The chief executive serves a five-year term and may be re-elected once.
After Song announced the election result, warm applause was heard in the hall.
In his speech upon election, Sam Hou Fai expressed his gratitude to the committee members.
“I am grateful to all the election committee members for their recognition and support, which allows me to continue serving Macao, the country, and the broader public in a higher, more comprehensive, and more strategic capacity,” he said.
According to the Basic Law, the chief executive is accountable to the central government and to the Macao SAR. Sam noted that he will be steadfast in these significant duties and responsibilities.
He highlighted his commitment to faithfully fulfilling his political platform and manifesto, with the primary goal of meeting people’s expectations for a better life. His highest principles will be fully, accurately, and steadfastly implementing the “one country, two systems” policy and safeguarding national sovereignty, security, and development interests, he said.
In accordance with the provisions of the Chief Executive Election Law, the election result will be submitted to the Court of Final Appeal for confirmation, and thereafter published in the Macao SAR Gazette.
-
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs seizes suspected scheduled dried shark fins, dried sea cucumbers and proprietary Chinese medicine with ingredients of suspected scheduled Gastrodia Elata (with photos)
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Hong Kong Customs seizes suspected scheduled dried shark fins, dried sea cucumbers and proprietary Chinese medicine with ingredients of suspected scheduled Gastrodia Elata (with photos)
Hong Kong Customs seizes suspected scheduled dried shark fins, dried sea cucumbers and proprietary Chinese medicine with ingredients of suspected scheduled Gastrodia Elata (with photos)
******************************************************************************************Hong Kong Customs on October 10 seized about 460 kilograms of suspected scheduled dried shark fins, 200kg of suspected scheduled dried sea cucumbers and 3 300 boxes of proprietary Chinese medicine with ingredients of suspected scheduled Gastrodia Elata, with a total estimated market value of about $2.3 million, at Hong Kong International Airport. Through risk assessment, Customs officers inspected an air consignment, declared as carrying household goods and arriving in Hong Kong from Indonesia, on that day. Upon inspection, the batch of dried shark fins, sea cucumbers and proprietary Chinese medicine suspected to be scheduled under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Ordinance) (Cap. 586), was found inside 33 carton boxes. The case was handed over to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) for follow-up action. Under the Ordinance, any person importing, exporting or possessing specimens of endangered species not in accordance with the Ordinance commits an offence and will be liable to a maximum fine of $10 million and imprisonment for 10 years upon conviction with the specimens forfeited. For licensing requirements for the species listed on different appendices, members of the public may visit the website: http://www.cites.hk. For enquiries, please contact the AFCD through email (hk_cites@afcd.gov.hk) or call 1823. Members of the public may report any suspected smuggling activities 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/Sunday, October 13, 2024Issued at HKT 15:15NNNN