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  • MIL-OSI USA: Bennet, Hickenlooper Welcome $170 Million for Clean Water, Reliable Energy Infrastructure in Colorado

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Colorado Michael Bennet
    Denver — Colorado U.S. Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper welcomed over $170 million in loans and grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for 12 Colorado projects in rural and Tribal communities to expand access to safe drinking water and reliable energy. 
    “Everyone deserves access to clean and safe water, no matter where they live. However, far too many rural communities in Colorado face the challenges of aging or unsafe water infrastructure,” said Bennet. “I’m glad towns from Holly to Del Norte will receive this federal support to help them continue delivering reliable, clean water to Coloradans across the state.”’
    “Where you live shouldn’t determine if you have clean water to drink or reliable electricity to keep the lights on,” said Hickenlooper. “From Rocky Ford to Silverton, these investments will create thousands of good-paying jobs while expanding access to safe drinking water and reliable energy.” 
    The  funding announcement is part of a $1.3 billion nationwide investment to make water infrastructure and the electrical grid more resilient to extreme weather, while creating thousands of well-paying jobs in the process. This funding comes from USDA’s Water and Waste Disposal Loans and Grants and the Electric Infrastructure Loan and Loan Guarantee programs. It is divided between over $127 million in grant funding and over $42 million in federal loans to the 12 Colorado projects. 
    A full list of selected projects is below:

    Recipient

    Grant Awarded

    Loan Awarded

    Description

    Location

    Hunter Solar

    N/A

    $38,285,000

    Provide long term financing of a 75 MW solar farm

    Arapahoe County

    San Miguel Power Association

     
    N/A

    $29,784,000

    Build and improve power lines, invest in smart grid technologies

    San Miguel County

    City of Rocky Ford

    $7,935,000

    $20,351,000

    Replace problematic sections of the existing water system

    City of Rocky Ford

    Town of Del Norte

    $11,018,000

    $12,010,000

    Replace undersized and failing water piping and add fire hydrants to extend firefighting coverage

    Town of Del Norte

    Montezuma Water Company

    N/A

    $15,300,000

    Modernize the water system to increase capacity,  install new water pumps

    Montezuma County

    Town of Holly

    $6,189,000

    $4,740,000

    Construct a new well and treatment plant and improve system efficiency

    Town of Holly

    Town of Walsh

    $4,404,000

    $1,550,000

    Upgrade the water treatment system

    Town of Walsh

    Sedalia Water and Sanitation District

    $5,045,000

    $561,000

    Help replace an aging water distribution system and connect the system to Castle Rock’s water system

    Douglas County

    Town of Silverton

    $2,764,000

    $2,165,000

    Improve wastewater treatment facilities

    Town of Silverton

    Town of Bethune

    $2,662,000

    $1,523,000

    Decommission existing treatment plant and construct a new 3-pond evaporation system

    Town of Bethune

    Meadow Mountain Water Supply Company

     
    $1,974,000

     
    $441,000

    Repair failing water distribution system

    Allenspark, CO

    Marble Water Company

    $455,000

    $1,158,000

    Install new distribution lines, fire hydrants, and water pumps

    Town of Marble

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Following Disturbing Reports Of Veteran Mistreatment At Buffalo VA, Gillibrand, Kennedy Pledge To Hold VA’s Feet To The Fire; Demand Comprehensive VA-Wide Review Of Community Care Practices

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand
    Today, following disturbing allegations of veteran mistreatment at the Buffalo VA, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand held a press conference at Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 416 to discuss the failures at the Buffalo VA and to pledge to hold it accountable. She is leading a bipartisan push demanding that the Government Accountability Office conduct a VA-wide review of the Veterans Integrated Services Networks’ (VISN) community care consult practices to ensure that no veteran in New York or anywhere in the country suffers egregious delays in care again. Gillibrand was joined by Congressman Tim Kennedy, Amherst Town Supervisor Brian Kulpa, and veterans of VFW Post 416.
    “Caring for our veterans is our most sacred duty,” said Senator Gillibrand. “But the Buffalo VA failed to honor that duty and caused unimaginable suffering for Western New York veterans and their families as a result. This can never happen again – in Buffalo, in New York, or anywhere in the country. Today, I’m demanding a VA-wide review of veteran community care consultpractices to ensure that no one is slipping through the cracks. I am pledging to hold the VA accountable for its egregious failures last year and ensure that every patient has access to high-quality and timely care moving forward.”
    “This egregious neglect and failure is a betrayal to the women and men who have made incredible sacrifices to safeguard our nation. I join in requesting that the GAO conduct a full review of community care practices, which did not meet the needs of our veterans. I will not rest until the Buffalo VA has the leadership, staff, funding, and infrastructure—including a new state-of-the-art facility—to deliver the care that our heroes have earned and deserve,” said Congressman Tim Kennedy. 
    “I am proud of the work my office has done to shine a spotlight on the unacceptable, and at times inhumane, practices at the Buffalo VA. This report confirms what we long suspected in painful detail: the Buffalo VA has failed in its mission, allowing veterans to suffer unnecessarily and neglecting to treat life-threatening conditions. Such failures are a grave disservice to those who have bravely served our country, and we are committed to ensuring accountability and meaningful change,” said Assemblymember Patrick Burke.
    “Thank you to Senator Gillibrand for addressing this important issue and her commitment to ensuring timely, effective and high-quality care for all veterans. I am honored to stand here today as our federal elected officials work together to address any failures in service, and take the necessary steps to do better going forward for all who served our country,” said Amherst Town Supervisor Brian Kulpa. 
    “As a member of the military community, I know the struggles facing veterans when it comes to their mental and physical recovery and wellbeing. I want to thank Senator Gillibrand for putting a spotlight on this issue. We all need to come together to make improvements and assist veterans as best we can. Every man and woman who served under the American flag deserves the best care and resources possible, and today’s announcement is the right step in that direction,” said Amherst Deputy Town Supervisor Shawn Lavin. 
    The full text of Senator Gillibrand’s letter to the Government Accountability Office is available HERE or below:
    Dear Mr. Dodaro:
                On Friday, September 27th, the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General (“OIG”) released its findings following its inspection of the VA Western New York Health System in Buffalo, New York. The report – Leaders Failed to Address Community Care Consult Delays Despite Staff’s Advocacy Efforts at VA Western New York Healthcare System in Buffalo – found a shocking pattern of apathy and incompetence on the part of Department facility and community care leaders in addressing the needs of patients with complex and high-risk conditions.
                As the report indicates, these delays caused or led to an increased risk of harm to the patients. One veteran passed away while waiting months to receive palliative care that would have helped manage cancer pain in their final months. Another patient  waited nine weeks to schedule radiation therapy for a new cancer malignancy, despite efforts by the chief of oncology to get the community care team to schedule treatment. Another veteran in their twenties continued to suffer from seizures for another 10 months as they waited for a consult to be scheduled, the delay partially caused by a referral being canceled by the community care medical director. These are only some of the cases highlighted by an OIG report that identified incompetence and bureaucratic red tape that failed the veterans in Buffalo again and again.
                The failure by the leadership at the Buffalo VA Medical Center must never occur again, and veterans across the United States must be reassured that they can receive timely and high-quality health care across the VA health care system.  Therefore, I request that the Government Accountability Office (GAO) conduct a review of Veterans Integrated Services Networks’ (VISN) community care consult practices. The review should include, but not be limited to: 
    Oversight of medical centers’ adherence to Veterans Health Administration (VHA) requirements for processing consults for conditions considered high-risk or complex; 
    Whether consults are appropriately prioritized and consistently processed within VHA’s timeliness requirements;
    Reviewing how medical facility, VISN leaders, and the VHA Office of Integrated Veteran Care respond to concerns regarding delays in consult scheduling from providers, staff, patients, and their families and how this is built into VHA’s quality and risk management programs;
    Best practices to prevent and address leadership deficiencies within the community care scheduling process, including the prioritization of patient safety;
    I request a briefing on the preliminary findings with final results to be submitted on a date and in form mutually agreed upon. Please include recommendations, as appropriate, for agency or congressional action in your evaluation.
    Sincerely, 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gillibrand Visits Rush-Henrietta Senior High School, Discusses Her Legislation To Provide Free Breakfast, Lunch, And Dinner To All Students

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand
    Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand visited Rush-Henrietta Senior High School to meet with school leaders and discuss her legislation to provide free breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a snack to all schoolchildren regardless of income. The bill would also expand access to free meals over the summer and eliminate school meal debt. 
    Free school meals are associated with a variety of positive outcomes, including improved attendance rates and school performance, fewer behavioral incidents, lower suspension rates, better health outcomes, and reduced financial stress for students and families.Rush-Henrietta Central School District is one of many districts in New York State that is able to offer free school meals because of the federal Community Eligibility Provision (CEP). CEP reimburses schools in low-income communities for providing free breakfast and lunch to all enrolled students. In 2022, Gillibrand, a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, advocated directly to Congressional leadership to expand Community Eligibility for high needs schools.
    “In the richest country on earth, it is unacceptable that millions of kids go hungry each day. I’m proud that so many New York schools – including Rush-Henrietta High – already provide free meals for kids, but we must do more. The Universal School Meals Program Act would provide funding for free breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a snack for all students nationwide and slash burdensome red tape for school administrators,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This bill would make our families and communities healthier and stronger, keep kids in school, and work to fight the stigma too often associated with meal programs. I look forward to passing this critical legislation so every child in the United States has the food they need to succeed.”
    The Universal School Meals Program Act would: 
    Permanently provide free breakfast, lunch, and dinner to all schoolchildren regardless of income and put an end to burdensome application paperwork that poses a barrier to enrollment in meal programs.
    Increase the reimbursement rates for school authorities participating in the food and nutrition programs to more accurately reflect the true cost of providing meals.
    Reduce stigma associated with meal programs by eliminating meal debt and prohibiting school food authorities from discriminating against or overtly identifying a child participating in the free meal program.
    Expand the summer food service program and Summer EBT program by making all children eligible to participate in the programs. Currently, only communities where 50 percent of children are eligible for free or reduced-price lunch can operate a summer meals program; the Universal School Meals Program Act would make all communities eligible regardless of income.
    Senator Gillibrand is a longstanding champion for childhood nutrition. She leads the bipartisan MODERN WIC Act, which would make WIC benefits more accessible to low-income families by allowing them to certify and recertify for WIC services remotely. She also leads the bipartisan Summer Meals Act, which would provide meals to children and teens in low-income areas during the summer months when school is not in session.
    A summary of the Universal School Meals Program Act is available here.
    Gillibrand was joined by Superintendent of the Rush-Henrietta Central School District Dr. Barbara Mullen and Vice President of the Monroe County School Boards Association Scott Adair.
    “Food insecurity is a real challenge for many in our community,” said Dr. Barbara Mullen, Superintendent of the Rush-Henrietta Central School District in suburban Rochester. “This issue impacts many students, so the idea of expanding universal feeding is a critical area of discussion. With 5,400 students from incredibly diverse backgrounds, Rush-Henrietta would benefit from a national effort to expand access to meals. Research – and our own experience – shows us that students who are adequately fed are able to achieve and dream at higher levels. Our students are capable of so much, we want them to reach their full potential. This type of legislation would help school districts and local communities address the needs of the whole child, allowing them to flourish in ways that some of them simply cannot right now.”
    “The Monroe County School Boards Association is proud to support the Universal School Meals Program Act, as our membership believes that every child in America should have access to nutritious meals, regardless of income. Food insecurity remains a devastating reality for millions of children in the United States and certainly within Monroe County. Having a meal every day shouldn’t be a worry for any child, and this bill takes a significant step toward helping to alleviate that issue,” said Amy J. Thomas, Executive Director of the Monroe County School Boards Association. “By ensuring universal access to healthy meals, the Universal School Meals Program Act will not only combat hunger but also remove the stigma associated with receiving free or reduced-price meals, creating a more inclusive and supportive learning environment. It also offers support to families who are struggling to make ends meet by eliminating the financial burden of school meal costs. In addition, eliminating school meal debt will ease financial strains on both families and schools. We commend Senator Gillibrand for her advocacy of the Universal School Meals Program Act as we believe this legislation will promote the health and well-being of our children, foster educational equity, and build a brighter future for all.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Department of Justice Awards University of Colorado Nearly $2 Million Grant to Combat Hate Crimes

    Source: United States Department of Justice (Hate Crime)

    DENVER – Acting United States Attorney for the District of Colorado Matt Kirsch is pleased to announce that the United States Department of Justice has awarded the University of Colorado the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Program Grant.

    The grant, totaling $1,999,939, will go to support the work of The University of Colorado Boulder’s Police Department (CUPD), and the Center for the Study and Prevention of Violence (CSPV) to build and deliver a comprehensive approach to hate crimes prevention, intervention, and investigation for all CU locations including CU Boulder, CU Colorado Springs, and CU Denver. Funds will be used to educate audiences across the CU System and train campus officials on coordinated strategies for preventing, investigating, and addressing hate-based incidents and hate crimes in higher education. Grant funding will reach approximately 60,000 students, 23,000 faculty and staff, and 60 law enforcement officers while serving as a model for other colleges and universities around the country.

    “The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado has a long-standing commitment both to investigating and prosecuting hate crimes and to engaging with the community on this topic,” said Acting United States Attorney for the District of Colorado Matt Kirsch.  “Public education on the tools available to prevent and address hate crimes is fundamental to these efforts, and we are proud to work with University of Colorado.”

    “The University of Colorado and the CU Boulder Police Department is honored to receive the Matthew Shepard and Edward Byrne Hate Crimes Grant, which will help us continue the important work of building a comprehensive approach to preventing hate crimes across the CU System,” said Doreen Jokerst, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Public Safety and Chief of Police of the CU Boulder Police Department at the University of Colorado Boulder. “CUPD will continue to work collaboratively with violence prevention researchers and other experts to create an effective, broad-reaching campaign to combat targeted violence.”

    This grant is part of the Office of Justice Program (OJP) and its wide-ranging efforts to improve community safety, serve victims of crime, support America’s youth, advance science, and promote equal justice. OJP is the largest grantmaking component of the Department of Justice and houses its criminal and juvenile justice related science and statistical units.

    The Department of Justice (DOJ) offers funding opportunities to support law enforcement and public safety activities in state, local, and tribal jurisdictions; to assist victims of crime; to provide training and technical assistance; to conduct research; and to implement programs that improve the criminal, civil, and juvenile justice systems. DOJ grant-making components regularly engage with United States Attorneys’ offices (USAOs) to promote outreach and communication about DOJ-funded grant programs, training, and technical assistance. Such communication helps the Department increase public awareness, access, and utilization of these resources. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Lac La Biche — Alberta RCMP respond to social media post depicting arrest in Lac La Biche

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    We, the Alberta RCMP are aware of a social media post depicting an officer of the Lac La Biche RCMP arresting a man in the early hours of Oct. 1, 2024. This video has garnered concerns from the public with regards to the officer’s actions. This video depicts one moment in a much larger incident and the RCMP would like to provide background as well as a more fulsome video of this interaction.

    On Oct. 1, 2024, at 2 a.m., Lac La Biche RCMP received a report from a family member of an intoxicated individual outside of a residence being verbally aggressive towards the occupants and refusing to leave. A lone Lac La Biche officer was the first to arrive and attempted to arrest the individual by placing him in handcuffs. The individual initially resisted arrest and then attacked the officer punching him in the head. The officer attempted two separate deployments of a conducted energy weapon (Taser) while the suspect continued to pursue the officer, however both deployments were unsuccessful. When the offender momentarily became compliant the officer quickly moved in to gain control and arrested the suspect.

    Police immediately took the suspect to the hospital to be treated for injuries he received during the altercation. Once the suspect received treatment, he was taken to the detachment and later released on charges for resisting arrest and assaulting a police officer.

    The RCMP have initiated our internal review process to gather a full account of what took place during this incident, including police training, policy, and response.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI China: China, Bulgaria celebrate anniversaries together at Confucius Institute

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

    SOFIA, Oct. 4 — “Bulgaria and China — we celebrate together with a view to the future” event was held at the Confucius Institute here on Friday to mark the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Bulgaria.

    The event, organized by the Confucius Institute in Sofia, was also held to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, 20 years of Confucius Institutes, Global Confucius Institute Day, and the Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival.

    Spectators in the institute’s Multifunctional Hall enjoyed Chinese and Bulgarian songs and dances performed by Bulgarian and Chinese students from educational institutions.

    Earlier on Friday, those interested attended lectures dedicated to China, such as “Educational Exchanges Between China and Bulgaria: Development of Bulgarian Studies in China” and “The Cultural Dimension of China’s Foreign Policy.”

    Guan Xin, cultural counselor at the Chinese Embassy in Bulgaria said addressing the festivity that China’s National Day and the establishment of diplomatic relations between Bulgaria and China have become inseparable events that were celebrated together and gave double joy to the two peoples.

    Guan also said that by promoting the Chinese language and culture, Confucius Institutes have helped people around the world get to know China, creating conditions for mutual understanding and rapprochement.

    Chen Ying, Chinese director of the Confucius Institute in Sofia, said the Confucius Institute in Sofia confidently and steadfastly worked for the spread of Chinese culture in Bulgaria, for more and more Bulgarian youth to learn Chinese, to visit China, and to eventually become young ambassadors of friendship between the two peoples.

    Chen said that currently, there are 25 learning centers with Chinese language teaching in the country, among which were universities in Plovdiv, Ruse, Blagoevgrad, Stara Zagora, and Burgas.

    Confucius Institute in Sofia has built eight Confucius Classrooms, which became regional centers for the dissemination of Chinese language and culture, she said.

    A congratulatory address on behalf of Nikolay Marin, rector of the South-West University in Blagoevgrad, said that his university established itself as a bridge of friendship between Bulgaria and China.

    The sustained friendly relations between China and Bulgaria were a prerequisite for the expansion of cooperation between the two countries in various spheres, Marin said.

    “It is our honor and pleasure to share this special moment with you,” said a congratulatory address on behalf of Dobri Yarkov, rector of Trakia University in Stara Zagora, who said he was happy and proud that the relationship and partnership between China and Bulgaria has been deepening in the culture, science, technology, agriculture and education.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China urges EU to get back to right track of resolving trade disputes through consultations: commerce ministry

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

    China urges EU to get back to right track of resolving trade disputes through consultations: commerce ministry

    BEIJING, Oct. 4 — China has urged the European Commission to truly show concrete actions to implement its political will and get back to the right track of resolving trade frictions through consultations, said a spokesperson of the Ministry of Commerce on Friday.

    The remarks came after the commission’s proposal to impose definitive countervailing duties on imports of battery electric vehicles from China had obtained the necessary support from Member States of the European Union (EU) for the adoption of tariffs.

    “China firmly opposes the draft final ruling of the EU side, but has also noted its political will to continue to resolve the issue through negotiations,” said the spokesperson, noting that technical teams from both sides will continue with their negotiations on Oct. 7.

    The ministry urged the EU side to be clearly aware of the harm of imposing additional tariffs, as it will not solve any problems but only waver Chinese enterprises’ confidence and resolve in and prevent them from conducting investing cooperation in Europe.

    “China’s position is consistent and clear. China firmly opposes the unfair, illegal and unreasonable protectionist practices of EU in this case, and resolutely opposes the EU additional countervailing duty on Chinese electric vehicles,” said the spokesperson. “China will take all possible measures to firmly defend the interests of Chinese enterprises.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Hong Kong wins global acclaim as one of top places to do business

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

    HONG KONG, Oct. 4 — Hong Kong has been winning global acclaim for its ever-improving business and investment climate underpinned by its status as a global financial hub and relentless efforts to nurture industries and firms.

    A pilot Business Ready 2024 Report published by the World Bank Group has named Hong Kong one of the best-performing economies in business environment out of the 50 economies it surveyed worldwide, according to a spokesperson for the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government.

    The report gauges business and investment climate from 10 topics with three pillars under each topic. Hong Kong ranks fifth in the pillar of “Operational Efficiency” with a score of 78.52 points out of 100 points. Among the 10 topics, Hong Kong scored 90.77 points for “International Trade,” 85.49 points for “Business Entry,” and 77.71 points for “Utility Services.”

    The report also highlighted that Hong Kong has few restrictions on international trade in services and implements good practices in terms of information provision and regulations relating to company registration, the spokesperson said.

    The pilot report is the latest in a string of nods to the ease of doing business in Hong Kong. The World Competitiveness Yearbook 2024 published by the International Institute for Management Development in June put Hong Kong first in terms of “International trade” and “Business legislation.” Hong Kong ranks among the top five globally in “business environment,” “human capital” and “infrastructure” according to the latest Global Financial Centers Index.

    “Apart from London and New York, I think there’s no other international regulatory environment that is more valuable than Hong Kong’s. I’m absolutely confident that I’m in the right place,” said French entrepreneur Julien Martin, dubbing Hong Kong one of the most attractive destination for businesses to grow and thrive.

    Having worked in the financial industry in Hong Kong for more than 10 years, Martin founded a green finance startup, as he has every confidence that Hong Kong’s strong regulatory regime, free flow of capital, as well as abundant sources of technological innovation will help his company thrive.

    Many foreign firms share Martin’s upbeat sentiment for growth. According to a latest business confidence survey conducted by the German Industry and Commerce Ltd. and the German Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong, 86 percent of respondents stated their company was not considering a relocation in the immediate future, while one in four indicated further investments in Hong Kong in the next two years, suggesting a commitment to maintaining stable operations in Hong Kong.

    Adding to Hong Kong’s long-standing allures including a transparent regulatory environment, a competitive tax regime and top-notch professional services and talents, Hong Kong is nurturing its sci-tech innovation sector as a cradle of startups as well as offices of leading firms.

    “Aside from enjoying a long legacy as one of the most important international business centers and logistics hubs in the world, Hong Kong is also committed to becoming a leader in the innovation and technology industry and is well-placed to achieve such a status,” said Yang Ming, global strategic affairs vice president of WestWell, an autonomous-driving developer founded in Shanghai.

    Hong Kong’s strategic location at the center of Asia enables innovation and technology companies to establish extensive connections with the regional market and achieve deep insights, Yang added.

    Entrepreneurs also say that Hong Kong’s supportive ecosystem for startups can come in handy, with government-backed initiatives, incubators, accelerators, and funding schemes in place to help startups navigate regulatory frameworks, access capital, and connect with potential partners or clients.

    Heartened by Hong Kong’s efforts to make its business environment more appealing, leading firms are pivoting increasingly to Hong Kong. Artificial intelligence (AI) and intelligent speech giant iFLYTEK and its subsidiary iFLYHEALTH announced plans in July to set up their international headquarters in Hong Kong’s flagship incubator Cyberport.

    Hong Kong will maintain its international, open and friendly business environment, said Financial Secretary of the HKSAR government Paul Chan during his visit to Spain in late September. Chan had vowed to deepen cooperation with both developed and emerging markets for fresh impetus into Hong Kong’s capital market.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Expanding rail transit lines propel Greater Bay Area integration

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

    SHENZHEN, Oct. 4 — The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) is being closely-knit by a growingly extensive, interconnected transportation network, poised to become one of China’s largest cross-city rail transit systems.

    Spanning 56,000 square km with a total economic output of over 14 trillion yuan (around 2 trillion U.S. dollars) in 2023, the area encompasses the Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions, along with nine cities in south China’s Guangdong Province.

    Since May, two new intercity rail lines have joined the existing network. Its integrated infrastructure, ticketing, security and information systems allow passengers to travel seamlessly across Guangzhou, Foshan, Dongguan, Zhaoqing and Huizhou in the GBA with a single ticket.

    The nine cities of Guangdong in the GBA see an average of over 6 million daily intercity trips. The intercity rail network has greatly streamlined business travel, tourism and commuting.

    “Compared to a grueling five-hour drive in the past, my daily commute now takes me just over two hours through the intercity transit network,” said a passenger surnamed Xie who works in Guangzhou and lives about 70 km away in Foshan.

    “The transit is quick and comfortable. It feels like I’m commuting within a single city,” Xie added, noting that the convenience of intercity travel makes it easy to meet and hang out with friends across all five cities.

    Experts believe that a bustling, punctual metro system can reduce travel times and transportation costs. Hence, it is logical to develop an extensive cross-city rail transit system to accommodate the high commuter traffic generated by the GBA’s integration.

    China aims to develop the GBA into a world-class city cluster, a global technology and innovation center, a livable, business-friendly location, an exchange hub for the culture of the East and the West and a world-class tourism destination.

    Experts believe that the GBA’s integration is crucial for harnessing regional industrial strengths, driving collaborative development, optimizing the industrial landscape and aligning with the global value chain.

    According to Hu Gang, a professor at Guangzhou-based Jinan University, the intercity line connecting five cities stimulates vitality and fosters interconnectivity, coordinated development and efficient resource circulation in the area.

    With the launch of the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong high-speed railway and the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, the GBA’s transportation network has fostered new patterns of cross-city consumption, economic exchange and lifestyles.

    “On weekends, I often stay in Shenzhen, enjoy dim sum and go shopping before heading back to Hong Kong on Sunday,” said Lin Lin, who frequently takes the subway to Shenzhen after finishing work in Hong Kong on Fridays.

    Shenzhen and Hong Kong have implemented a mutual authentication system for digital payment in public transport. People can use payment apps including AlipayHK and Alipay for taking buses and subways in both cities, with fares automatically converted at current exchange rates.

    “The transportation network fosters regional economic cohesion and job growth, differentiating industries and boosting competitiveness,” said Li Peilin, an associate researcher at the National Development and Reform Commission’s Institute of Spatial Planning and Regional Economy.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Transformational plans for Liverpool’s Littlewoods Project given green light

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Last updated:

    Plans by Capital&Centric to transform the iconic former Littlewoods building in Liverpool into a new, world-class film and TV campus have been approved by Liverpool City Council’s Planning Committee.

    The plans for the Council-owned site, which include the restoration and repurposing of the 1930s Edge Lane building, were submitted by the social impact developers last year.

    The company has just completed the enabling works and securing planning is the next major milestone for the project.

    Subject to the next tranche of funding being agreed, the go ahead from the council will kick start the main restoration works, including two new 20,000 sq.ft studios for big budget productions, as well as spaces for offices, workshops, studio support facilities and an education facility.

    The site, which holds many memories for locals, will now be opened up and made accessible to surrounding communities. The former canteen which was housed in a barrel-vaulted hangar is to be transformed into a multi-purpose screening and performance zone, which will be for the use of occupiers on site, and then open up to the public out of hours. It’ll feature five small format cinema screens, an outdoor performance space and permanent foodhall.

    John Moffat, Joint Managing Director at Capital&Centric, said: “This is a huge moment for Littlewoods and for the city as we now have the green light to deliver the Hollywood of the North. Liverpool already has a reputation as a world-class filming destination.

    “The Littlewoods Project will take it to the next level, providing much-needed indoor studio space and support facilities. You can’t underestimate what this means for local people – me among them – not only seeing this iconic building brought back to life, but bolstering the city’s creative credentials and creating jobs and careers for generations. It’s the moment everyone’s been waiting for.”

    Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, said: “The transformation of the Littlewoods building into a world-class, cross-sector film, TV and creative campus is a game-changer for the Liverpool City Region. It’s a testament to our growing reputation as a centre for creativity and innovation.

    “This project not only preserves a cherished part of our heritage but will also drive economic growth, create thousands of jobs, and cement our place on the international stage as a destination for high-end productions.

    “It’s fantastic to see our vision for the ‘Hollywood of the North’ take another step towards becoming a reality, and we’re proud to support this iconic development with a £17m investment.”

    Councillor Nick Small, Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet member for Growth and Economy, said: “It’s fantastic news that the Littlewoods Project has been greenlit by the city’s Planning Committee. It means the stage is set for it to play a lead role in transforming Liverpool’s TV and Film offer.

    “There’s still some plot development to take place and we’ll be working closely with Capital & Centric and the Combined Authority to ensure a truly blockbuster scheme is delivered.”

    The planned new sound stages will take around a year to be built and become operational. The programme for repurposing the existing building is longer due to the complexity of dealing with the existing structures.

    Capital&Centric is working with Liverpool City Council as freeholder of the site and Liverpool City Region Combined Authority as project funders. The Combined Authority, led by Mayor Steve Rotheram, has committed up to £17m to the project.

    It is anticipated that the Littlewoods Project will bring around 4,000 full-time equivalent jobs in the region’s creative sector.

    Famed for their restoration of historic buildings such as Crusader in Manchester, Weir Mill in Stockport and Eyewitness Works in Sheffield, Capital&Centric recently announced its biggest project to date – delivering 2,000 homes for the UK’s largest new town, Northstowe in Cambridgeshire.

    The team behind the Littlewoods Project includes architect shedkm and planners Avison Young.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Amends South Carolina Disaster  Declaration

    Source: The White House

    Today, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. made additional disaster assistance available to the State of South Carolina by authorizing an increase in the level of Federal funding for emergency work undertaken in the State of South Carolina as a result of Hurricane Helene beginning on September 25, 2024, and continuing.

    Under the President’s order today, Federal funds for debris removal and emergency protective measures, including direct Federal assistance has been increased to 100 percent of the total eligible costs for a period of 90 days of the State’s choosing within the first 120 days from the start of the incident period.

    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION MEDIA SHOULD CONTACT THE  FEMA NEWS DESK AT (202) 646-3272 OR FEMA-NEWS-DESK@FEMA.DHS.GOV.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Disaster Declaration for the San Carlos Apache  Tribe

    Source: The White House

    Today, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. declared that a major disaster exists for the San Carlos Apache Tribe ordered federal aid to supplement the Tribal Nation’s efforts in the areas affected by the Watch Fire from July 10 to July 17, 2024.

    The President’s action makes Federal funding available to affected individuals for the San Carlos Apache Tribe.

    Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

    Federal funding also is available to the San Carlos Apache Tribe and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the Watch Fire.

    Lastly, Federal funding is available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures for the San Carlos Apache Tribe.

    Mr. Benigno Ruiz of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has been appointed to coordinate Federal recovery operations in the affected areas. 

    Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the Tribal Nation and warranted by the results of further damage assessments.

    Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance at http://www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362), or by using the FEMA App. Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service. 

    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION MEDIA SHOULD CONTACT THE FEMA NEWS DESK AT (202) 646-3272 OR FEMA-NEWS-DESK@FEMA.DHS.GOV.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley: Biden-Harris Stonewalling Prevents CBO from Conducting Complete Analysis of President’s 2025 Budget

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    WASHINGTON – Senate Budget Committee Ranking Member Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) today issued the following statement on the Congressional Budget Office (CBO)’s report, “An Analysis of the President’s 2025 Budget.”

    “Biden-Harris pie-in-the-sky policy proposals are so unrealistic CBO can’t even calculate their budget impact. This administration’s unprecedented lack of transparency and fiscal discipline is insulting to Congress and the taxpayer,” Grassley said. “President Biden and Vice President Harris shouldn’t count on Congress to go along with their plan to stick Americans with the bill for a bunch of unclear initiatives – especially today, when households are facing 20 percent higher prices than they were four years ago.”  

    The nonpartisan CBO has analyzed presidents’ budget proposals since the 1970s. Due to limited detail in many Biden-Harris policies, CBO hasn’t been able to estimate their budgetary effects as promptly or precisely as past administrations. 

    Grassley in March asked White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Shalanda Young if she would give CBO all the information it needs for this year’s report to Congress. In response, Director Young committed, “We will provide CBO what they need to do this independent assessment.” Despite this promise, CBO and the Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT) did not have enough information from OMB to produce independent estimates for more than 60 Biden-Harris budget proposals. Notably: 

    • CBO could not determine the total spending, revenues, deficits and debt under the Biden-Harris budget.
    • For the tax and mandatory spending policies CBO and JCT could assess, they found the administration overstated expected savings by over $1 trillion. 
    • CBO projects Biden-Harris’ base nondefense funding request exceeded the spending cap enacted in the Fiscal Responsibility Act. 

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: PHOTOS AVAILABLE: Governor Cooper Travels to Haywood and Jackson Counties, Meets With First Responders and People Impacted by Hurricane Helene

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: PHOTOS AVAILABLE: Governor Cooper Travels to Haywood and Jackson Counties, Meets With First Responders and People Impacted by Hurricane Helene

    PHOTOS AVAILABLE: Governor Cooper Travels to Haywood and Jackson Counties, Meets With First Responders and People Impacted by Hurricane Helene
    bconroy

    Today, Governor Roy Cooper visited Haywood and Jackson counties to meet with people affected by the storm and thank emergency personnel and volunteers for their continued hard work. Relief and recovery operations continue in Western North Carolina as coordinated efforts bring supplies and resources into the region.

    “Today I visited Canton, Waynesville and Cashiers along with the Emergency Operations Centers in Jackson and Haywood Counties, speaking with people impacted by this storm about our continuing support and current needs in their communities,” said Governor Cooper. “The people of Western North Carolina have shown remarkable strength and courage in the face of this unprecedented storm, and we will continue our efforts to surge resources into affected areas.”

    In Haywood County, the Governor visited Canton where he was joined by Mayor Zeb Smathers to walk through damaged downtown businesses and Pisgah Memorial Stadium. The Governor also visited the Haywood County Emergency Operations Center to thank volunteers. In Jackson County, the Governor visited the Cashiers Fire Department and the Jackson County Emergency Operations Center where he thanked first responders and spoke with them about ongoing rescue and recovery missions.

    North Carolina Emergency Management and officials are cautioning the public about false Helene reports and misinformation being shared on social media. Today, NCEM launched a fact versus rumor response webpage to provide factual information in the wake of this storm.

    Today, Gov. Cooper requested and was granted the addition of Swain and Mecklenburg counties to North Carolina’s Major Disaster Declaration. Residents affected by Helene in these counties can apply for FEMA assistance by going to disasterassistance.gov

    This week, President Biden approved 100% FEMA reimbursement for six months. To apply for Individual Assistance, visit disasterassistance.gov. President Biden also approved Governor Cooper’s request for active-duty military personnel and equipment to support ongoing operations in Western North Carolina. Aviation assets deployed earlier this week, and military personnel have deployed throughout the day today. That is in addition to the more than 1,200 North Carolina National Guard who are currently deployed, conducting search and rescue missions and distributing food, water and other supplies. In order to ensure that all resources are available for use in the response to Hurricane Helene, Governor Cooper issued Executive Order 316, which permits the use, sale, and distribution of dyed diesel fuel for highway use.

    Photos of today’s visit can be found here.

    Food, Water and Commodity Points of Distribution

    Efforts are underway to provide food, water and basic necessities to residents in affected communities, utilizing both ground resources and air drops from the NC National Guard. FEMA has delivered approximately 6.1 million liters of water and 4.1 million meals. More than 70,000 people have registered for individual assistance through FEMA. Food, water and commodity points of distribution have been opened at the following locations:

    • Buncombe County – Biltmore Baptist Church, 35 Clayton Road, Arden, NC 28704
    • McDowell County – Grace Community Church, 5182 Highway 70 West, Marion, NC 28752
    • Watauga County – First Baptist Church, 375 West King Street, Boone, NC 28607

    Points of distribution for commodities have been established in each impacted county. Many of these locations are also providing free public Wi-Fi for area residents. Seek information from local governments for the most up-to-date location in your county.

    Power Outages

    Across the region, approximately 148,000 customers remain without power, down from a peak of more than one million. Power has been restored to more than 800,000 customers.

    Missing Persons

    To report a missing person or request non-emergency support, please call NC 211 or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state.

    Shelters

    A total of 22 shelters are open in Western North Carolina, housing more than 1,162 people and 114 pets. Plans are in place to open additional shelters as needed to accommodate additional needs.

    Search and Rescue Operations

    Search and rescue operations are ongoing in Western North Carolina. A total of 53 search and rescue teams from North Carolina and beyond, consisting of more than 1600 personnel have conducted search and rescue operations during this event. The NC National Guard has interacted with over 5400 people, including assists, evacuations and rescues.

    Road Closures

    Travel remains dangerous, with approximately 600 roads closed as of Friday. As connectivity and reporting measures improve, this number may increase. NCDOT is asking people to refrain from unnecessary travel to or in Western North Carolina. Road access is limited to local and hurricane response traffic as crews work to restore critical routes and access to communities isolated by damage. First responders also want to keep the roads as clear as possible to help ensure they may carry out all response missions. NCDOT has posted at ncdot.gov an interstate detour map for travelers to avoid western N.C. NCDOT is currently using the following resources to assist with the recovery process:

    • 1,350+ employees, plus 70 contract companies
    • 1,200+ trucks, graders & backhoes/loaders
    • 900+ chainsaws
    • 5,000 barricades & signs

    Cellphone Provider Coverage

    Cellphone providers are working to fix the damage and coverage issues caused by the storm and get stopgap solutions, such as temporary cell phone towers, in place and rapid progress is being made. Restoring communications is critical to saving lives, finding where people are and getting in supplies, and Governor Cooper been in constant contact with cellphone companies urging action and offering support. Please turn your cell phone off and restart it periodically to allow it to reconnect when a network is reestablished.

    Fatalities

    Sixty-five storm-related deaths have been confirmed in North Carolina by Office of Chief Medical Examiner. We do expect that this number will continue to rise over the coming days. The North Carolina Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will continue to confirm numbers twice daily. If you have an emergency or believe that someone is in danger, please call 911. To report that you have been unable to reach a person in Western North Carolina, please call 211.

    North Carolina National Guard Deployed

    Gov. Cooper has activated more than 1,200 North Carolina National Guard soldiers and airmen to both conduct search and rescue operations and deliver critical supplies to Western North Carolina. As of Friday, 417 specialized vehicles and 26 aircrafts have been deployed in Western North Carolina to facilitate these missions.

    President Biden approved Governor Cooper’s request for active-duty military personnel and equipment to support ongoing operations in Western North Carolina. Currently, aviation assets and other equipment from Fort Liberty have been deployed and up to 1,000 active-duty military personnel are expected to begin deploying.

    Volunteers and Donations

    Due to dangerous road conditions, and the need to maintain open routes for emergency operations, travel to Western North Carolina is strongly discouraged. Instead, consider the following options for donations and volunteer opportunities:

    Storm Damage Cleanup

    If your home has damages and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386.

    Major Disaster Declaration and FEMA Assistance

    President Biden approved Governor Cooper’s request for an expedited request declaring a Major Disaster for 25 North Carolina counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. This declaration paves the way for Public Assistance to help our hard-hit local governments, as well as access to FEMA’s Individual Assistance program. On Wednesday, President Biden announced the approval of 100% FEMA reimbursement for six months, a significant funding commitment from the federal government.

    FEMA may be able to help with serious needs, displacement, temporary lodging, basic home repair costs, personal property loss or other disaster-caused needs. Homeowners and renters in Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Clay, Cleveland, Gaston, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Transylvania, Watauga, Wilkes and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians can apply.

    North Carolinians may apply for Individual Assistance by calling 1-800-621-3362 from 7am to 11pm daily or by visiting www.disasterassistance.gov, or by downloading the FEMA app.

    Additional Assistance

    There is no right or wrong way to feel in response to the trauma of a hurricane. If you have been impacted by the storm and need someone to talk to, call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990. Help is also available to anyone, anytime in English or Spanish through a call, text or chat to 988. Learn more at 988Lifeline.org.

    If you are seeking a representative from the North Carolina Joint Information Center, please email ncempio@ncdps.gov or call 919-825-2599.

    If you would like general information, access to resources, or answers to frequently asked questions, please visit ncdps.gov/helene.

    If you are seeking information on resources for recovery help for a resident impacted from the storm, please email IArecovery@ncdps.gov.

    Oct 4, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Uncovering impactful solutions through user research

    Source: US Government research organizations

    The purpose of user research is to understand the needs and behaviors of your users so you can develop a product or service that supports them. Combined with user testing, it helps ensure that your product or service meets the needs of your users.

    Types of user research

    There are two types of user research: generative, and evaluative.

    Generative research helps you discover behaviors and problems in the current environment. This is the type of research you’ll use most when you first start a user research exercise. Examples of generative research include observations (i.e., watching the user do something) and user interviews.

    Evaluative research takes place after you have a potential solution in mind. You use this type of research to pilot your solution with real users to see how it works. Examples of evaluative research include usability testing, where you watch a user try out your solution to see how they interact with it.

    Types of usability testing

    When conducting these two types of user research, be sure to apply some qualitative testing with users. As with the research types, there are two approaches here, each of which has its own unique benefits.

    Unmoderated user testing. In unmoderated testing, your users all receive the same questions (think of it like a script). This approach works best with a large sample size where you can gather quantitative data to identify the challenges users face when navigating through your digital offerings.

    Moderated user testing. In moderated testing, you have a moderator who can facilitate sessions to follow the needs and the questions of your testers in real time. This can help you discover more qualitative data from users, such as: what are your users thinking, feeling, and saying as they work with your digital content? This type of data can reveal themes and help you empathize with the people who will be accessing your content. Using this approach means you can also get a smaller group of people together and generate less paperwork, driving the goals of the Paperwork Reduction Act.

    Remember that the American public is not necessarily your end customer; they might be someone from another agency or even within your own agency.

    When conducting user testing, some important best practices to keep in mind include:

    • Be empathetic to the needs of differently-abled users.
    • Only ask questions that you really need answered. This shows respect for users’ time.
    • Make it clear from the beginning that the tester is driving the session, and check in often to make sure that they are comfortable proceeding.
    • Highlight that what they are sharing is valuable, and that they are in a safe environment, helping to inform trauma-responsive design of your digital content.

    Guidance within policy

    Recent memos from the Office of Management Budget (OMB) provide agencies with compliance and implementation guidance for two laws: Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (as amended), and the 21st Century Integrated Digital Experience Act (21st Century IDEA).

    Strengthening the federal government’s commitment to digital accessibility (M-24-08): Guidance for agencies to incorporate digital accessibility in their services, specifically building in guidelines and guardrails.

    Delivering a digital-first public experience (M-23-22): Guidance for agencies to test their digital solutions with individuals who have disabilities and people using different forms of assistive technology.

    Both policies are important to consider when conducting user research.

    If you have questions about either memo, contact OMB’s Office of the Federal CIO at ofcio@omb.eop.gov.

    User testing resources

    Utilize existing resources across the government for help with accessibility-focused user research journeys, such as identifying testers. There are online guides and communities to help you get started, like the usability testing card from 18F Methods and the Digital.gov User Experience Community.

    Your own agency may even have its own guide to conducting user research. For example, the Department of Homeland Security published Basics of User Research: What is User Research and worked with Digital.gov on a training session, DHS Usability Testing Kit — So Easy, Anyone Can Do It.

    Remember to use your contracts and associated documents — like a Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP) — to document accessibility requirements and identify the mandates in applicable laws and memos to ensure that contractor-driven developments meet accessibility needs.

    Learn more in the 18F De-risking Guide: Sample Quality Assessment Surveillance Plan (QASP).

    Case study

    Delivering on 21st Century IDEA: A case study from the GSA SmartPay team (Part 1)

    The GSA SmartPay program, the largest government charge card and commercial payment solutions program in the world, celebrated their 25th anniversary by launching three new websites with a user-centered, agile approach.

    While there are automated tools available to help test systems for accessibility, they can only get you so far. A thoughtful plan of action for user research and testing is the only way to calculate for the human element and to design digital services that meet a variety of accessibility and inclusivity needs.

    Join the UX and Section 508 communities of practice.

    User Experience Community

    The UX Community of Practice is a group of managers, subject matter experts, designers, developers, writers, and others interested in creating efficient, effective, and useful technologies. Join the UX Community.

    Section 508/IT Accessibility Community

    The IT Accessibility and Section 508 Community of Practice is a group of federal employees who manage agency Section 508 programs or create electronic content. They work to create accessible online experiences for federal employees and members of the public.

    Note

    This blog post was inspired by session 2 of the Spring 2024 Digital.gov Community Summit: Delivering a digital-first public experience. Panelists included:

    Beth Martin, Digital Source Expert with the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), session moderator

    Kristen Lohman, Design Strategist with the Service Delivery Team at GSA

    Mark Meyer, Software Developer with the Digital Service Team at GSA

    Martha Wilkes, the Lead Accessibility Strategist at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)

    Christopher Patten, a Human Centered Designer at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Murphy Directs the Lowering of U.S. and New Jersey Flags in Honor of the One-Year Anniversary of the October 7 Terrorist Attack on Israel and the Ongoing Humanitarian Crisis in the Middle East

    Source: US State of New Jersey

    TRENTON – Governor Murphy today signed Executive Order No. 368, ordering U.S. and New Jersey flags to fly at half-staff on Monday, October 7, 2024 in recognition and in mourning of the lives lost during the Hamas terrorist attack on Israel, those taken hostage, and the ongoing humanitarian suffering in Gaza and throughout the Middle East.

    On October 7, 2023, as the Jewish community observed Shabbat and Simchat Torah, Hamas terrorists carried out a horrific attack on Israel, murdering nearly 1,200 civilians and abducting more than 240 people. One year later, more than 97 individuals, including at least six Americans and New Jersey’s own Edan Alexander, remain hostage in Gaza. Israel continues to face significant threats from Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iranian missile attacks.

    The escalation of this conflict has also led to the loss of tens of thousands of innocent lives across Gaza, the West Bank, and Lebanon, and the displacement of approximately 90% of the Gazan civilian population. Governor Murphy believes that protecting innocent civilians must remain central in efforts to deescalate the conflict and foster future stability.

    New Jersey is the proud home to some of the largest Jewish, Israeli American, Muslim, Palestinian American, and Lebanese American communities in the United States.

    “One year after the tragedies of October 7, 2023, we continue to mourn the devastating losses and urge all parties to reach an agreement that immediately returns every hostage and puts an end to the continued suffering of civilians in Israel, Gaza, and throughout the region,” said Governor Murphy. “Our hearts go out to the families that have been shattered by the terrorist attacks on October 7th and the humanitarian suffering that followed, and we continue to pray for a swift end to the war and restoration of peace across the region.”

    For a copy of Executive Order No. 368, click here

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Vice President Harris Travels to Augusta, GA Following Hurricane Helene

    Source: United States of America – The White House (video statements)

    While in Georgia, Vice President Harris saw the devastation from Hurricane Helene firsthand.

    She also saw how communities are coming together and people are helping their neighbors.

    We know there are months of recovery ahead — and when Americans come together, we can accomplish anything.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4hZ8ZLbN6Ug

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Death of an inmate from Springhill Institution

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    On October 4, 2024, John Daley, an inmate from Springhill institution, died while in our custody.

    October 4, 2024 – Springhill, Nova Scotia – Correctional Service Canada

    On October 4, 2024,  John Daley, an inmate from Springhill institution, died while in our custody.

    At the time of death, the inmate was 61 years old and had been serving an indeterminate sentence, which commenced on March 11, 1988.

    The inmate’s next of kin have been notified.

    As in all cases involving the death of an inmate, the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) will review the circumstances. CSC policy requires that the police and the coroner be notified.

    -30-

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Government of Canada to make announcement regarding support for the health and safety of firefighters

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Government of Canada – in French 1

    Media Advisory

    October 4, 2024, Ottawa, ON – The Honourable Mark Holland, Minister of Health, will make an announcement regarding the National Framework on Firefighting-Related Cancers.

    The Minister will be joined by Yasir Naqvi, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health, and Sherry Romanado, Parliamentary Secretary to the President of the King’s Privy Council for Canada and Minister of Emergency Preparedness.

    A press briefing will take place immediately after the announcement.

    Date

    October 7, 2024

    Hour

    11:30 a.m.

    Place

    The event will take place in person at the following address:

    Station 13 – Côte-de-Sable530 King Edward Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario K1N 7N4

    Media can also participate via Zoom:https://hc-sc-gc-ca.zoom.us/j/68392760885Access code: 759384

    Please identify yourself (first and last name) and indicate your media when joining the event.

    Twitter:@GovernCanHealthFacebook :Healthy Canadians

    Media Information

    Matthew KronbergPress SecretaryOffice of the Honourable Mark HollandMinister of Health343-552-5654matthew.kronberg@hc-sc.gc.ca

    Media RelationsHealth Canada613-957-2983media@hc-sc.gc.ca

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Danala opens as the future of higher education in Darwin

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    It’s an important day for higher education in the Northern Territory with the official opening of Danala, the new Charles Darwin University Education and Community Precinct campus.

    Next semester, the new campus will throw its doors open to students, delivering courses in information technology, software engineering, law, accounting and more. 

    Students studying at Danala will be welcomed by first-class facilities in a modern, spacious environment, centrally located, close to public transport and retail facilities.

    Danala will feature two levels open to the public, including a new library co-locating the Charles Darwin University and Northern Territory Library collections – and will also support entertainment and events in the Darwin CBD.

    The opening of Danala is the culmination of over half a million work hours through the planning and construction phases, and provided over 1,500 jobs including nearly 1,000 for Territorians. First Nations employees comprised 12 per cent of the workforce, exceeding 70,000 work hours.

    The facility is expected to create 54 new direct jobs, as well as ongoing benefits across the broader Darwin CBD and community.  

    The $239.8 million project was supported with $97.3 million from the Australian Government and a $126.5 million loan from the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility with Charles Darwin University contributing the remainder of the funding. 

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

    “It’s been a privilege to see the development of this extraordinary campus over the past few years. 

    “Its construction has created over 1000 jobs for Territorians, and Danala’s completion is now revitalising the Darwin CBD and honouring Larrakia culture. 

    “Australia is known globally as a leader in world-class education and campuses like Danala mean that our students can access world-class facilities, no matter where they live.”

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Education Jason Clare: 

    “This modern, state of the art facility will make CDU an even better place to study.

    “It is great news for students, staff and the Top End.”

    Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Northern Australia Madeleine King:

    “This is another example of NAIF investment creating jobs and driving economic growth across northern Australia. 

    “A strong north means a strong Australia.”

    Quotes attributable to Member for Solomon Luke Gosling:

    “We said we’d deliver more community infrastructure in Darwin and Palmerston and that’s exactly what we’re doing.

    “As part of the Darwin City Deal, NAIF generously provided a loan of over $126.5 million towards the ECP.

    “Supporting projects like the new city campus supports Territorians, creating more jobs for locals and opportunities for local businesses. 

    “Danala will be a centre of educational excellence, attracting students from all over the country—and the world—to live, work, and study in the centre of Darwin.”

    Quotes attributable to CDU Vice-Chancellor Scott Bowman: 

    “Danala will stand as a beacon for Darwin, proudly showcasing the city as an education hub. 

    “This precinct will attract students from across Australia, around the world, and most importantly, from across the Northern Territory.

    “Danala will serve as a hub where ideas flourish and connections are made, reinforcing our commitment to being Australia’s most connected university.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada to make an announcement on supporting the health and safety of firefighters

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Media advisory

    October 4, 2024, Ottawa, ON – The Honourable Mark Holland, Minister of Health will make an announcement about the National Framework on Cancers Linked to Firefighting.

    The Minister will be accompanied by Yasir Naqvi, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health and Sherry Romanado, Parliamentary Secretary to the President of the King’s Privy Council for Canada and Minister of Emergency Preparedness.

    There will be a media availability following the announcement.

    Date

    October 7, 2024

    Time

    11:30 AM

    Location

    The event will be held in-person at:

    Station 13 – Sandy Hill
    530 King Edward Ave, Ottawa, ON K1N 7N4

    Media may also join by Zoom: https://hc-sc-gc-ca.zoom.us/j/68392760885
    Passcode: 759384

    Please indicate your name (first and last) and media outlet when joining the event.
    Twitter: @GovCanHealth
    Facebook: Healthy Canadians

    Media Inquiries:

    Matthew Kronberg
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Honourable Mark Holland
    Minister of Health
    343-552-5654
    matthew.kronberg@hc-sc.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Health Canada
    613-957-2983
    media@hc-sc.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: Trillion Energy Initiates Velocity String Program

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Vancouver, B.C., Oct. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Trillion Energy International Inc. (“Trillion” or the “Company”) (CSE: TCF) (OTCQB: TRLEF) (Frankfurt: Z62) is pleased to announce it is gearing up SASB gas field operations with the installation of Velocity Strings (VS) at this time.

    On September 30th, 2024, after the Company reached an agreement with its partner at SASB on the technical aspects of the program, it was assigned operatorship for the conduct of this program.

    The Company then was able to sign a service agreement with a snubbing provider “Snub Co” to install the velocity strings. Mobilization of the snubbing unit, which is currently in Romania, has begun. The propose of the operation is to increase or stabilize production rates in producing wells, by reducing water loading.

    Currently the Akcakoca-3 and South Akcakoca-2 are averaging 2.55 MMcf/d and 2.3 MMcf/over the past 30 days. The other two long reach directionally drilled wells Guluc-2 and West Akcakoca-1 were only produced intermittently due to water loading. Even still, Guluc-2 averaged 1.7 MMcf/d over the last 2 months.

    Arthur Halleran CEO of Trillion stated:

    “Initially it was assumed that the VS could only be run in using a drilling rig, however, we have now convinced all a snubbing unit can accomplish this activity. This has been a giant step forward. This strategic move underscores our commitment to maximizing shareholder value through operational excellence and innovative solutions in the dynamic European energy market.”

    Oil block update -The Company has continued to work to finalize a farm-in to earn a working and revenue interest in M46 and M47 oil exploration blocks within the Cudi-Gabar petroleum province, Southeastern Turkiye (the “Oil Blocks”). The Company initiated seismic work in 2023 on the Oil Blocks planned four exploration wells for 2024, however, such wells have not been drilled as the Company focused on its workover program at SASB.  As a result, the block license owner secured a third party to drill two wells on the Oil Blocks and gave up a 20% interest. As such, the first two wells will not be drilled by Trillion and Trillion is committed to earning an interest in the Oil Blocks subject to financing and finalizing participation terms.

    About the Company

    Trillion Energy International Inc is focused on oil and natural gas production for Europe and Türkiye with natural gas assets in Türkiye. The Company is 49% owner of the SASB natural gas field, a Black Sea natural gas development and a 19.6% (except three wells with 9.8%) interest in the Cendere oil field. More information may be found on http://www.sedar.com, and our website.

    Contact
    Arthur Halleran, Chief Executive Officer
    Brian Park, Vice President of Finance
    1-778-819-1585
    E-mail: info@trillionenergy.com;
    Website: http://www.trillionenergy.com

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release may contain certain forward-looking information and statements, including without limitation, statements pertaining to the Company’s ability to obtain regulatory approval of the executive officer and director appointments. All statements included herein, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking information and such information involves various risks and uncertainties. Trillion does not undertake to update any forward-looking information except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

    These statements are no guarantee of future performance and are subject to certain risks, uncertainties, delay, change of strategy, and assumptions that are difficult to predict and which may change over time. Accordingly, actual results and strategies could differ materially and adversely from those expressed in any forward-looking statements as a result of various factors. These factors include unforeseen securities regulatory challenges, COVID, oil and gas price fluctuations, operational and geological risks, changes in capital raising strategies, the ability of the Company to raise necessary funds for development; the outcome of commercial negotiations; changes in technical or operating conditions; the cost of extracting gas and oil may increase and be too costly so that it is uneconomic and not profitable to do so and other factors discussed from time to time in the Company’s filings on http://www.sedar.com, including the most recently filed Annual Report on Form 20-F and subsequent filings. For a full summary of our oil and gas reserves information for Turkey, please refer to our Forms F-1,2,3 51-101 filed on http://www.sedar.com, and or request a copy of our reserves report effective December 31, 2022 and updated January 31 2023.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: USCGC Oliver Henry completes strategic patrol in Palauan waters, strengthening regional security and maritime partnerships

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    SANTA RITA, Guam  –  

    The crew of USCGC Oliver Henry (WPC 1140) completed a two-week patrol from Sept. 16 – 30, 2024, as part of Operation Rematau, contributing to maritime security, domain awareness and the enhancement of strategic partnerships between the United States and the Republic of Palau.

    This patrol bolstered the United States’ commitment to supporting sovereign maritime nations in the Pacific and reinforcing good regional maritime governance.

    The crew of USCGC Oliver Henry (WPC 1140) conducted transits covering an area of over 15,000 square miles of Palau’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Their vigilance played a pivotal role in deterring illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing and other illicit maritime activities, thereby enhancing maritime security.

    “Our patrol, coordinated with our Palauan partners, demonstrates the ongoing importance of our presence in these waters,” said Lt. Ray Cerrato, commanding officer of Oliver Henry. “Through dedicated enforcement, professional exchanges, and bilateral operations, we are helping to secure not just Palau’s maritime resources but also contributing to regional stability and cooperation.”

    Notably, the crew conducted three bilateral law enforcement boardings with Palau’s Division of Marine Law Enforcement and monitored foreign fishing vessels within Palau’s EEZ. These actions resulted in no violations, reflecting positive compliance by local and foreign vessels operating in the region, supporting Palau’s efforts to maintain sustainable fisheries.

    The patrol also assessed the feasibility of Malakal Pier in Palau as a potential berth for larger Coast Guard cutters in future operations. This assessment ensures continued U.S. support and regional collaboration to counter potential maritime threats.

    In conjunction with law enforcement activities, the crew engaged in professional knowledge exchanges with Palau’s Division of Marine Law Enforcement members and U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam’s Sector Boarding Team (SBT), furthering mutual capacity-building efforts. Enhancing readiness and strengthening partnerships, the crew pursued training and certifications for Oliver Henry’s crew and additional members from USCGC Myrtle Hazard, USCGC Hollyhock, and U.S. Coast Guard District 8, supplementing Oliver Henry’s team.

    “The success of this mission demonstrates the strategic importance of maritime domain awareness and cooperation in the Pacific,” said Capt. Robert Kistner, commander, U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam. The operational knowledge gained from this patrol and continued collaboration between the U.S. and Palau enables future regional security initiatives.”
    -USCG-

    About Operation Rematau
    Operation Rematau is how U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam supports the overarching Coast Guard endeavor Operation Blue Pacific to promote security, safety, sovereignty, and economic prosperity in Oceania. Rematau means people of the deep sea. It reinforces the U.S. commitment to working together to advance Pacific regionalism based on the Blue Pacific narrative. This action supports U.S. national security objectives, bolstering regional maritime good governance and security.

    About USCGC Oliver Henry
    USCGC Oliver Henry (WPC 1140) is the 40th 154-foot Sentinel-class Fast Response Cutter named for Oliver T. Henry, Jr., an enlisted African American Coast Guard member first to break the color barrier of a then-segregated Service. Designed for many missions, including search and rescue, national defense, and maritime law enforcement, the Oliver Henry plays a significant role in safeguarding national interests and preserving good maritime governance.

    For more information about U.S. Coast Guard actions, please get in touch with CWO Sara Muir, public affairs officer, at sara.g.muir@uscg.mil or uscgforcesmicronesia@gmail.com.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: 168th Security Forces FAST Team supports Pacific Angel 24-2 search and rescue exercise in Nepal

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    NEPAL  –  

    The United States Air Force Security Forces watching over our aircraft as we depart on a mission may not always be at the forefront of our minds, but for the Defenders, security is their top priority. The 168th Wing Security Forces Defenders recently provided a Fly-Away Security Team (FAST) to support Pacific Angel 24-2 in Kathmandu, Nepal, Sept. 16-29, 2024.

    PA 24-2 is a bilateral search and rescue exercise sponsored by the U.S. and hosted by the Nepal Army. It facilitates field training and the exchange of information among subject matter experts on adverse terrain personnel recovery operations, swift water, and flood personnel recovery operations, patient movement in search and rescue operations, and medical response to hazardous materials. The exercise aims to enhance collaboration by building military and civilian trust in search and rescue capabilities.

    The FAST mission is to protect the aircraft in all areas throughout the mission to support humanitarian missions and Department of Defense anti-terrorism operations. These teams are responsible for safeguarding aircraft, crew members, and cargo from potential adversaries and play a key role in enhancing collaboration and trust for successful operations.

    “As part of this mission, in particular, we prepared by having each of our members become subject matter experts and brief the team,” said Tech Sgt. Zachory Dominique, 168th Wing Security Forces. “For example, regarding customs and courtesies, we do not want to go to Nepal and be disrespectful – knowing the customs and courtesies beforehand better prepares us – simple things like that. We prepared for weather, terrain, and conditions as well. We went through our load out, ensured we had proper protective equipment, and ensured everything was operational. Everything we have been doing follows a PACE plan, an acronym for primary, alternate, contingency, and emergency, so if our plan fails, we have plans b, c, and d.”

    The 168 SFS Defenders dedicated themselves to providing an impenetrable security perimeter around the military aircraft to protect aircrew and cargo. These highly trained and skilled defenders undergo rigorous selection and training processes to ensure they are prepared to handle any security threat. Their expertise lies in establishing and maintaining security measures to safeguard aircraft, personnel, and assets in challenging, high-risk environments.

    The role of FAST defenders is critical in enabling the safe and successful execution of operations. Their presence deters potential threats and reassures aircrew, passengers, and support personnel operating in these environments. In addition to their security duties, FAST defenders are trained to respond to medical emergencies, natural disasters, and other crises, highlighting their versatility and readiness to support a wide range of missions.

    The 168th FAST Defenders’ dedication and commitment to their mission make them an indispensable asset in ensuring the safety and security of air operations in austere environments. Their unwavering vigilance and expertise contribute to the overall success of humanitarian missions and DoD anti-terrorism efforts, earning them the reputation of being a formidable and reliable security force.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Digby — Missing person: Help the RCMP find Greggory Wagner

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Digby RCMP is asking for the public’s assistance in locating 30-year-old Greggory Wagner.

    Wagner is 6-foot-2, 200 lbs, and has short brown hair, a thin beard, and brown eyes. He was last seen leaving the Digby Sobeys parking lot on foot. He was wearing a blue and grey “Ecko Unlimited” shirt, blue jeans and grey sneakers, and he was carrying a yellow bag.

    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 through social media respectfully.

    Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Greggory Wagner is asked to contact the Digby RCMP at 902-245-2579. 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.

    File #: 2024-1465106

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Death of an inmate at Springhill Institution

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Government of Canada – in French

    On October 4, 2024, John Daley, an inmate at Springhill Institution, died while in our custody.

    October 4, 2024 – Springhill, Nova Scotia – Correctional Service Canada

    On October 4, 2024, John Daley, an inmate at Springhill Institution, died while in our custody.

    At the time of death, the person was 61 years old and had been serving an indeterminate sentence since March 11, 1988.

    The person’s relatives have been informed.

    As is always the case in the event of a death, the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) will review the circumstances of the incident. CSC policy requires that the police and the coroner be notified.

    -30-

    Sophia DoironCommunications AdvisorRegional Administration, AtlanticMedia.GEN-ATL@CSC-SCC.GC.CA

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese envoy urges Security Council to keep attention on probe of Nord Stream explosions

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    A Chinese envoy on Friday called on the UN Security Council to keep its attention on the investigation of the Nord Stream pipelines explosions, refrain from allowing it to fade away, and put an end to double standards.

    Two years ago, the Nord Stream pipelines exploded in the Baltic Sea, which “has serious negative impact on global energy supplies, marine ecosystems, and the safety of maritime shipping,” said Geng Shuang, China’s deputy permanent representative to the United Nations, at the Security Council briefing on Nord Stream.

    Over the past two years, the international community has been following with great interests the progress of the investigation into the incident, he said, adding that the council has conducted numerous deliberations with many council members repeatedly calling for “objective, impartial, and professional investigations to establish facts as soon as possible” and bring the perpetrators to justice.

    “Regrettably, we have not yet reached a definitive conclusion,” he said.

    “Two years later, the result is that Sweden and Denmark have announced the termination of their investigations one after another, yet the information they released is scant and lacking details,” said the ambassador, adding that the national investigation of Germany has so far produced no clear conclusion.

    He said the public can only obtain information and speculate based on media reports. “Was there a hidden agenda to the initial opposition to an international investigation? Has evidence been covered up and destroyed over the past two years or so? When will the trust and time we have given be rewarded with the truth about what happened?” Geng asked.

    The ambassador said China supports the draft presidential statement circulated by Russia on the Nord Stream pipeline explosions and welcomes the changes and adjustments Russia made to the draft in light of the comments of council members.

    Terming the draft as presenting facts objectively, reflecting the concerns of all parties, and “generally balanced in its content,” he expressed the hope that all parties will intensify consultations and reach agreement on the draft as soon as possible, so as to send a clear signal to the outside world.

    Geng also expressed the hope that Germany will announce the progress and results of the investigation through official channels as soon as possible, and the countries concerned will actively communicate and cooperate with Russia, the main party to the Nord Stream incident, and avoid politicizing the investigations.

    “We hope that the council will keep its attention on this matter, refrain from allowing it to fade away, and put an end to double standards,” he concluded. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Death toll rises to 42 after boat accident in central Nigeria

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    The death toll of a boat accident earlier this week in Niger State in central Nigeria has risen to 42, as more bodies were recovered Friday, a local official said.

    Abdullahi Baba-Arah, head of the State Emergency Management Agency, told reporters that at least 17 more bodies had been recovered since Thursday, six of them found early Friday.

    At least 25 bodies were earlier confirmed to have been recovered after the boat carrying more than 300 passengers capsized on Tuesday night, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu’s spokesman said on Thursday.

    More than 150 others were rescued after the overloaded wooden boat flipped over on the River Niger upstream Jebba Dam in the Mokwa local government area late Tuesday, Bayo Onanuga, a senior presidential spokesman, said in a statement issued on behalf of Tinubu.

    The victims were returning from a religious celebration in another community in Niger when the accident occurred, local authorities said in a separate statement issued earlier, noting mostly women and children were aboard the ill-fated boat. The exact cause of the accident is still under investigation.

    Baba-Arah told the media Friday that the search and rescue operation was continuing to recover the still-missing victims.

    Meanwhile, Tinubu has ordered the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) to investigate the spate of boat accidents in Niger and across the country and devise modalities to check the trend.

    The Nigerian leader also directed the NIWA to expand the scope of its surveillance of inland waters to ensure “people’s safety and prosecute boat operators violating the ban on night sailing.”

    Boat accidents are common in Nigeria, often due to overloading, adverse weather conditions, and operational errors. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Iran stands with Hezbollah, backs efforts for ceasefire in Lebanon, Gaza: FM

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi affirmed Friday that his country will stand with Hezbollah and always support Lebanon and its people.

    Araghchi made the remarks at a press conference after two separate meetings with Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri and Prime Minister Najib Mikati during his visit to Beirut.

    Araghchi described his visit “under current difficult circumstances” as the “best evidence that Iran stands by Hezbollah with all its capacity” and a gesture to show solidarity with “the Shiites in Lebanon and the entire Lebanese people.”

    The minister called Iran’s Tuesday missile attack on Israel “a legitimate self-defense based on the principles of the United Nations Charter.”

    He stressed that Iran “has no plans to continue attacks unless Israel decides to continue its attacks,” warning if Israel takes any step or action against Iran, the response will be “stronger and proportionate.”

    Araghchi pointed out that his talks with Lebanese officials center on the ceasefire and that “consultations are ongoing with concerned countries.”

    “We support the efforts toward a ceasefire, provided that, first, the rights of the Lebanese people are taken into account and it is accepted by the (Hezbollah) resistance, and second, that it comes simultaneously with a ceasefire in Gaza,” he said.

    Meanwhile, a statement released by Mikati’s office said Araghchi has expressed during the talks “his country’s concern and support for Lebanon in the face of the Israeli aggression.”

    According to the statement, Iran will launch a diplomatic campaign and request a meeting of the Organization of the Islamic Conference to support Lebanon.

    Araghchi arrived in Beirut for a visit on Friday, during which the top Iranian diplomat is scheduled to meet with high-ranking Lebanese officials. In addition, Iran will provide 10 tons of food and medicine in aid to Lebanon, according to Iran’s Foreign Ministry.

    The visit comes as Israel has recently intensified its strikes against Hezbollah across Lebanon, which fueled its ongoing clashes with Hezbollah since Oct. 8, 2023, when the Lebanon-based Shiite group fired rockets at Israel in support of Hamas in the Gaza Strip, prompting retaliatory fire and airstrikes from Israel in southeastern Lebanon. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: World Bank report ranks Hong Kong among top 10 global business hubs

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Hong Kong has been ranked among the top 10 economies to do business in by the World Bank Group on Thursday, a vote of confidence in the city’s regulations for business entry and utility infrastructure.

    In the inaugural Business Ready 2024 Report covering 50 economies, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region logged high scores in international trade, business entry and utility services.

    The ratings came after the United States in September alleged that businesses faced escalating risks associated with operations in Hong Kong, claiming that routine activities could be violated by the city’s national security law.

    A spokesman for the Hong Kong SAR government said the latest report recognizes the city’s role as an international trading center.

    “The report highlights that Hong Kong has few restrictions on international trade in services and implements good practices in terms of information provision and regulations relating to company registration,” he said.

    However, the government spokesman noted that the report, on the other hand, has not reflected some of Hong Kong’s elements “conducive to a friendly business environment”, such as implementing common law, robust rule of law and safeguarding gender equality.

    The administration said it will maintain close communication with the World Bank Group to explain comprehensively about the city’s situation, and its policies and measures that facilitate the business environment.

    Recent reports from multiple international organizations have validated Hong Kong’s robustness and competitiveness. For example, according to the latest Global Financial Centers Index issued in September, Hong Kong reclaimed its position as Asia’s top financial center and the third globally.

    Ratings showed that the city was among the top places in various competitive areas such as business environment, human capital and infrastructure. The report also ranked the SAR as one of the top 10 financial technology hubs worldwide.

    Billy Mak Sui-choi, an associate professor at Hong Kong Baptist University’s Department of Accountancy, Economics and Finance, said Hong Kong should embark on market diversification and talent cultivation to consolidate its international trade hub status.

    “Hong Kong should reach out to more ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) and Belt and Road countries as much as possible to strengthen its superconnector role in regional trade and investment flows,” Mak told China Daily.

    The professor added that Hong Kong should nurture more overseas students from ASEAN, Africa and Central Asia to become international trade talents that can act as the bridge for fostering trade between Hong Kong and those three regions.

    Simon Lee Siu-por, adjunct faculty at Shenzhen Finance Institute of CUHK (Shenzhen), said the report has reaffirmed Hong Kong’s previous efforts to consolidate its international trade center status, adding that the common law system, rule of law and freedom of information flow are very important to cement Hong Kong’s reputation as a business-friendly place.

    “Hong Kong should maintain the attribute of internationalization by welcoming and boosting the confidence of overseas enterprises to operate their businesses here,” Lee told China Daily.

    MIL OSI China News –