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  • MIL-OSI Australia: TV interview with Andrew Clennell, Sky News Sunday Agenda

    Source: Australian Government – Minister of Foreign Affairs

    Andrew Clennell, Host: Foreign Minister Penny Wong has been at the UN General Assembly this week calling for an immediate ceasefire in Lebanon and a deadline for the UN to declare Palestinian statehood.

    Yesterday I spoke to the Foreign Minister after her big address to the UN in New York.

    Penny Wong, thank you for your time. You’ve given a speech there in New York where you say Lebanon cannot become the next Gaza, but Benjamin Netanyahu’s arrived in New York and said there’s no ceasefire coming. He says we won’t rest until our citizens return safely to our homes in northern Israel. He says we’ll continue degrading Hizballah until all our objectives are attained. Are you shouting into the void here?

    Penny Wong, Foreign Minister: We’ve joined with the United States, the United Kingdom, the European Union and many other countries to call for a ceasefire in Lebanon, and I would say to Israel, you know, we want you to listen to the international community.

    It is true that Hizballah is a terrorist organisation, it is true that they have not been complying with UN Security Council Resolutions, but we see the horrific loss of life in Gaza, we see 11,000 children killed, you know, the world does not want to see more civilian deaths; we have to find a different way to deal with the legitimate issues of concern in relation to the border.

    Clennell: He’s not listening though, is he, no matter how many times you and even the US says it?

    Foreign Minister: I can’t speak for the government of Israel. What I can say to you is when you have a coalition of countries, which includes many historic friends and allies of Israel, making the same point, then that is a very clear demonstration of the will of the international community.

    Clennell: Did you expect Israel to attack Hizballah in the manner it has? What is the end game to this conflict, including in Gaza, to the Israeli Government, do you think?

    Foreign Minister: Well, this is a – that’s a very good question, and what is the end game, and one of the points that we have made, and many others have made, that ultimately the end game should be peace and security in the region, peace and security for Israelis, peace and security for the people of Israel, and that will require a two‑state solution, that is the only pathway to long‑term peace and security for both Israelis and for Palestinians.

    Clennell: Many, many leaders before you have attempted this, as you well know. It just doesn’t look possible; I hate to say and ask you. So is there a way out of this without a two‑state solution because perhaps there has to be?

    Foreign Minister: If there is, I don’t think the international community is seeing it. We have 11,000 children who’ve been killed in Gaza, we have hostages who were taken by Hamas in the terrorist attack on Israel who are still being held, so you know, we have to work together as an international community, and that is what, you know, we have been trying to do this week saying that, you know, we have to come together, because ultimately the international community has to find a way to get on that pathway to peace, and it really comes down to the very simple proposition, Andrew, where is the long‑term security and peace for Israelis without a two‑state solution?

    Clennell: What did you make of the coordinated pager attack that took place? Do you support Israel doing that to target the Hizballah leadership, or do you condemn it?

    Foreign Minister: Well, I was asked about this, and obviously Hizballah is a terrorist organisation, and we understand the security position Israel is in.

    Having said that, we’ve seen so much violence in the Middle East, and I talked tonight about that cycle of violence, the continued escalation, the continued retribution, that continued cycle of violence, and ultimately that will not bring peace and it will not bring security, which is why Australia and others, including the United States and the United Kingdom have called for a ceasefire in Lebanon and diplomacy to try and resolve this, because we have seen so many people, so many people die.

    Clennell: You say retribution, Israel would say they’re acting in self-defence. Would you accept that they’re acting in self-defence at all?

    Foreign Minister: One of the points I made in the speech tonight is that the international community has agreed rules, even in war there are rules, even when attacking terrorists there are rules, even when defending your borders there are rules, and we agreed them as an international community 75 years ago in the Geneva Conventions because we understood what it means when humanity goes into conflict with no rules. So Australia –

    Clennell: So what rules do you think are implicit in that?

    Foreign Minister: Well –

    Clennell: Is it that you think Israel are breaking rules, isn’t it; isn’t that implicit in that statement? So what rules are being broken?

    Foreign Minister: Ultimately the decision about whether international law is breached or not is a decision for international courts. But what I am saying and what the international community is saying is that civilians must be protected, aid workers must be protected, and you know, we are months, eleven months into this conflict. We’ve seen so many people killed, we’ve seen so many civilians have been lost, we’ve seen so many children who have been killed, and this is really a cycle of violence that we have to find a way out of.

    Clennell: The government’s spoken a lot about fears of a broader regional conflict, you’ve spoken of that. Is the big fear of a war between Iran and Israel?

    Foreign Minister: I think there’s a lot of points of regional escalation people have been worried about, obviously Lebanon is one, as you said, you know, Hizballah, which is a terrorist organisation and is an Iranian proxy, you know, there is always the risk of even further escalation.

    We’ve been concerned about that for a long time, as have others in the international community, and we’ve been engaging with all the parties we can to urge de-escalation and restraint, and I know that sometimes it isn’t popular in Australia, certainly with some of the Coalition to talk about restraint, but sometimes that is the only pathway to ensure you don’t see more lives lost.

    Clennell: Have you had an opportunity there to speak to Israeli and Lebanese, or indeed Iranian representatives, and if so what have been the nature of those conversations?

    Foreign Minister: Yes, well, I haven’t seen – I’ve engaged with the Foreign Minister of Israel, but he, I don’t think he’s been here. I have had a conversation with the Foreign Minister of Lebanon today. Obviously with the attacks on Beirut, they’re very concerned, very worried, hoping that there can be – that conflict can be averted, very concerned about the situation, and you know, I expressed to him, you know, our desire to – for all parties to de-escalate, you know, we obviously know that it’s important that the Lebanese Government urge Hizballah to de-escalate, to not engage in further violence and aggression.

    I also expressed to him that, you know, we understood the humanitarian situation, and I have just authorised another couple of – $2 million in humanitarian relief to Lebanon.

    Clennell: Do you think there’s any aspect of the approach of Benjamin Netanyahu which is affected by the fact the US are about to go to an election and he thinks he may have a different administration to deal with?

    Foreign Minister: You’ll have to ask Prime Minister Netanyahu that.

    Clennell: What’s your belief?

    Foreign Minister: Well, that’s not a – that’s an opinion that I think I’ll leave to you and other commentators. I’m the Foreign Minister of Australia, and my job is to articulate our foreign policy and our position. That’s what I’ve done tonight, and that’s what I’ve done to Israel. I’ve said very clearly, no, we understand the circumstances of October 7, it was horrific, but from day one, we have said international humanitarian law matters, civilian lives matter, all lives have value.

    Clennell: You’ve made comments once again supporting a Palestinian state just now. What’s the government’s position on the requirements for that? Would you have a requirement after the October 7 attacks that there would have to be a ban of Hamas membership of any government before that could occur, or do you think some remnants of that leadership could remain?

    Foreign Minister: I’ve said that – well, I’ve said there is no place for terrorists in the future Palestinian government, and Hamas is a terrorist organisation. I’ve said that there has to be reform of the Palestinian Authority, but fundamentally, you’d have to ensure that any Palestinian state did not threaten the security and viability of Israel. The whole logic of two states, of a Palestinian state and an Israeli state is that there are sufficient security guarantees that both states can live, can exist side by side securely. That is the whole logic of two states.

    Clennell: What’s the status of a potential evacuation of Australians from Lebanon?

    Foreign Minister: I’m very worried about Lebanon, as you know, Andrew. As you probably know I’ve been calling, advising Australians to leave I think since October. I have said very clearly this is – sorry, for some months, I should say. I’ve said very clearly, you know, we are worried about regional escalation, we have had do not travel for some time, for months now we have been saying please come home, we’ve done that over and over again, and the reason is we have so many Australians in Lebanon, and we are concerned about regional escalation, so I would again say to any Australian in Lebanon, please leave, please leave by whatever means are available whilst Beirut airport is still open.

    Clennell: Peter Dutton has essentially said there’s only one good side on this war and that’s Israel, and we should be giving Israel all our support as a country. When he went to Israel he was left with the impression the administration was bemused Australia had not provided more support to it. What do you make of that view of Mr Dutton, because it creates a clear partisan difference on Foreign Affairs, doesn’t it?

    Foreign Minister: Well, I think our support for the existence of the state of Israel, which is bipartisan, does not mean we walk away from supporting international humanitarian law. It does not mean we don’t say each civilian should be protected. I mean Mr Dutton should remember Australia is, you know, we’re a country that prides ourself on our respect for the rule of law, and that has to apply internationally as well, and that is why it is appropriate for Australia to talk about the need to protect civilians.

    Clennell: The US this week said they were banning certain Chinese electric vehicles from their country because they could be remotely operated in a war situation. Chris Bowen said at the moment we’re not going to do the same. Have you had any advice in relation to this, what’s behind our stance on this?

    Foreign Minister: Well, look, we will continue to discuss this with the United States, we will continue to take advice from our security agencies about this and about all other matters.

    Clennell: You called Vladimir Putin a coward in your speech for using the veto of the Security Council to protect his illegal actions in Ukraine. You want reform of the UN Security Council, is that maybe too ambitious?

    Foreign Minister: Well, I do think it’s an act of a coward to use a veto to avoid, you know, your responsibility, and you know, the extraordinary thing, the really immoral thing about what Russia is doing, apart from their illegal and immoral invasion of Ukraine, is the use of a veto that the international community gave them in order to protect the UN Charter, in order to protect international law and the sovereignty of all nations is being used by this man to protect himself as he breaches that law, right, and I think that is cowardly.

    You know, we continue to stand with Ukraine in the defence of their sovereignty.

    Clennell: So Donald Trump just met President Zelenskyy and said that if he’s elected there will be a peace deal soon, and he has good relations with both Putin and Zelenskyy. What do you make of that?

    Foreign Minister: Well, you know, we all would hope for peace on terms that are satisfactory to Ukraine.

    Clennell: Just finally, you’re on the Expenditure Review Committee of Cabinet, one of the key leaders of the government. Has there been in recent months any discussions that the government could take a policy to alter negative gearing to an election; is this something the Treasurer and or Housing Minister are interested in?

    Foreign Minister: That’s a good try, Andrew, but you know, you know, we don’t discuss what happens in Cabinet, and what I would say is what I’ve said publicly, we don’t have any plans in relation to negative gearing. What we do want to do though is increase the supply of housing, and that’s what we’re trying to do.

    Clennell: Foreign Minister Penny Wong in New York. Thanks so much for your time.

    Foreign Minister: Good to speak with you, Andrew.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Public urged to stay vigilant against cardiovascular diseases in support of World Heart Day

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Department of Health (DH) today (September 29) urged members of the public to take positive steps to care for their hearts and prevent cardiovascular diseases. This appeal was made in support of World Heart Day held on September 29 annually.      Cardiovascular diseases, including heart disease and stroke, are the leading cause of death globally. However, 80 per cent of premature deaths from cardiovascular diseases are preventable by limiting risk factors and practising heart-healthy behaviours. The most important behavioural risk factors of heart disease and stroke are unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, use of tobacco and alcohol. The effects of behavioural risk factors may show up in individuals as overweight and obesity, raised blood pressure, raised blood glucose, and raised blood lipids. These “intermediate risks factors” can be measured in primary care facilities and indicate an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, heart failure and other complications. Identifying those at a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases and ensuring they receive appropriate treatment can prevent premature deaths.     In Hong Kong, cardiovascular diseases are a major cause of mortality and morbidity. In 2023, there were 11 138 registered deaths* attributed to cardiovascular diseases, including 7 258 deaths* due to heart diseases. The Population Health Survey (PHS) 2020-22 adopted the Framingham Risk Model to predict the risk of cardiovascular outcomes including coronary heart diseases, strokes, peripheral artery diseases and heart failure. Among asymptomatic persons aged 40 to 74 living in the community, 18.4 per cent were classified as high risk for cardiovascular issues, with a likelihood of 20 per cent or more over the next 10 years. The proportion of persons classified as high risk was much higher in males (34.0 per cent) than females (4.9 per cent) and increased with age (from 1.1 per cent among persons aged 40 to 44 to 44.5 per cent among persons aged 65 to 74).     More importantly, local surveys revealed that risk factors of cardiovascular diseases were prevalent among the general population. Among persons aged 15 or above, 97.9 per cent reported consuming an average of less than five servings of fruit and vegetables per day, which is the amount recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO), 9.1 per cent were daily conventional cigarette smokers, and 8.7 per cent consumed alcohol regularly (i.e. at least once a week). In addition, the PHS 2020-22 revealed that 24.8 per cent of persons aged 18 or above did not meet the WHO’s recommended levels of aerobic physical activity for optimal health. The prevalence of overweight and obesity, raised blood pressure, raised blood glucose and raised total blood cholesterol among persons aged between 15 and 84 was 54.6 per cent, 29.5 per cent, 8.5 per cent and 51.9 per cent, respectively.      To guard against cardiovascular diseases, members of the public are urged to lead a healthy lifestyle that includes eating a balanced diet with at least five daily servings of fruit and vegetables, reducing fat, salt and sugar intake, being physically active, avoiding smoking, and refraining from alcohol consumption.     Apart from healthy living, early identification and proper management of risk factors for cardiovascular diseases, including diabetes mellitus (DM) and hypertension (HT), is another key strategy for lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases. The Government launched the three-year Chronic Disease Co-Care Pilot Scheme (CDCC Pilot Scheme) on November 13, 2023, to subsidise Hong Kong residents aged 45 or above with no known medical history of DM or HT to undergo DM and HT screening services in the private healthcare sector. As at August 7, 2024, around 40 per cent* of participants who have completed the screening have been diagnosed with prediabetes, DM or HT. They can then receive long-term follow-up care in the community provided by Family Doctors, District Health Centre (DHC)/DHC Express, and other healthcare service providers according to clinical conditions. For more details, members of the public may browse the dedicated website of the CDCC Pilot Scheme (www.primaryhealthcare.gov.hk/cdcc/en).     To help members of the public maintain heart health, the Government will continue organising health promotional campaigns and work in close partnership with community partners to increase public awareness about the importance of healthy living in preventing cardiovascular diseases and to foster a heart-healthy environment.     For more information about healthy living, please visit the Change4Health website of the DH. *Provisional figures

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi awards national medals, honorary titles

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Chinese President Xi Jinping on Sunday presented medals to recipients of the national medals and honorary titles, the highest state honors, ahead of the 75th founding anniversary of the People’s Republic of China.
    Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, conferred the highest state honors at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi to award national medals, honorary titles

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

    BEIJING, Sept. 29 — Chinese President Xi Jinping will award national medals and honorary titles at a ceremony held on Sunday ahead of the 75th founding anniversary of the People’s Republic of China.

    Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, will confer the highest state honors at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.

    As the ceremony started, senior official Cai Qi read out a presidential order signed by Xi on the awards.

    Four people will be awarded the Medal of the Republic.

    Dilma Rousseff, president of the New Development Bank and former Brazilian president, will receive the Friendship Medal.

    Ten people will be awarded medals of national honorary titles.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: NFRA creates special science, tech insurance system

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

    The National Financial Regulatory Administration is working to support the growth of the insurance industry by creating a special system for science and technology insurance. This was shared by Yin Jiang’ao, an NFRA official, during a media conference in Beijing on Friday.

    The goal is to improve insurance services for technology-based businesses throughout their entire lifecycle. The NFRA plans to introduce new products, refine policies and support pilot projects in areas like cybersecurity insurance and research and development loss insurance. Yin emphasized that the insurance products will cover all stages of innovation, including the first batch of equipment and intellectual property protection.

    The NFRA, along with other government departments, will also increase policy support for this type of insurance. They aim to build a system that offers broad coverage, while also providing rewards, subsidies and tax incentives for companies involved in technological innovation. This support is designed to reduce risk and encourage the development of new ideas and industries.

    Several regions, such as Ningbo in Zhejiang province, Lingang in Shanghai and Hudong in Hubei province, have already experimented with science and technology insurance. These areas are being used as examples for other regions to follow. According to Yin, this type of insurance is more specialized than regular insurance, with unique risks that require cooperation across industries to manage.

    Luo Yanjun, another official from the NFRA, added that the administration will continue guiding insurance companies to invest more in emerging industries and advanced manufacturing. By the end of August, the balance of insurance fund usage reached 31.8 trillion yuan ($4.5 trillion), with 28.8 trillion yuan supporting the real economy through investments in debt, equity and other areas.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Alibaba’s Taobao introduces Tencent’s WeChat Pay

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Photo taken on July 3, 2020 shows the research center of the Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba on the “AIsland” of Zhangjiang Science City in Pudong New Area, east China’s Shanghai. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Starting Friday, consumers shopping on Alibaba’s Taobao platform can now use Tencent’s WeChat Pay for transactions, according to an official statement from Taobao.

    The new payment option allows users to complete purchases with WeChat Pay, and subsequent updates will enable users to access transaction records and bills directly within the WeChat app, WeChat Pay said.

    Additionally, Taobao and Tmall are set to officially integrate JD Logistics, with the service expected to be available by mid-October. Once live, sellers on Taobao and Tmall will have the option of selecting JD Logistics for shipments.

    JD.com will also introduce services from Cainiao’s delivery network, including Cainiao Express and Cainiao Post, which offers parcel pickup points.

    JD.com is also preparing to add Alipay as a payment option, expected to launch ahead of the Nov. 11 shopping festival. Both companies have confirmed that their logistics and payment cooperation agreements are now in place. 

    The collaboration indicates that Chinese tech companies are moving toward more efficient resource integration and enhanced user experiences, said Liang Qiang, dean of Shantou University’s School of Business.

    The partnership is also aligned with China’s macro policies to advance digital infrastructure and facilitate the dual circulation of domestic and international markets while enhancing the competitiveness of Chinese e-commerce platforms in the global supply chain, he added.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese, European EV professionals call for cooperation, oppose trade protectionism

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    This photo taken on Sept. 27, 2024 shows a scene at the 2024 World New Energy Vehicle Congress (WNEVC) in Haikou, south China’s Hainan Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Both Chinese and European electric vehicle (EV) makers and experts are calling for global cooperation and opposing trade protectionism at the ongoing 2024 World New Energy Vehicle Congress (WNEVC).

    With the deep development of advanced technologies, collaborative research and global industrial chain cooperation have become more important to the automotive industry, Hildegard Mueller, president of the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA), said Saturday on the congress.

    “However, in 2024, we observe a rise in protectionist sentiments globally. An example is the EU’s anti-subsidy investigation into EVs imported from China,” Mueller said.

    “For EU, imposing anti-subsidy tariffs is not yet an answer to the challenges facing the European automotive industry. Rather, it could easily escalate into a new trade conflict, sparking a spiral of protectionism,” Mueller said.

    She believed that for any country and region, any market, any industry, what’s needed is simply an active industrial strategy, adding that Europe in particular must ensure that the conditions for business are improved.

    She noted that the German automotive industry stands firm on the principles of free and fair trade. “We at the VDA will continue to advocate for open markets, globalization, international trade and investment and, above all, cooperation and continued dialogue,” she added.

    Gan Jiayue, CEO of Geely Auto Group, also called on the new energy vehicle (NEV) industry to strengthen its collaboration to achieve mutual benefits.

    Some countries and regions are trying to restrict the application of China’s NEVs by imposing additional tariffs and setting technical standards, Gan said on Saturday’s congress, adding that if imposing additional tariffs, the EU will not only hamper China’s economic development but also harm its own interests.

    The automobile industry is an industry of global cooperation, and Geely always adheres to free trade and fair competition, Gan said.

    Jochen Goller, member of the board of management of BMW AG, also addressed the conference, sharing insights on low-carbon transition and global cooperation, and expressing optimism about China’s NEV market.

    “BMW Group strongly believes technology openness is the only sustainable path towards a carbon-neutral future, as we need to cater to the diverse needs of customers worldwide, and to advance individual mobility towards a green future,” Goller said in his speech.

    BMW firmly believes that cooperation fosters prosperity and growth, he said, adding that to continue the unique automotive success story, key challenges have to be tackled and resolved jointly.

    Themed with “Low Carbon Evolution and Global Cooperation,” the 2024 WNEVC is taking place in Haikou, capital of south China’s Hainan Province, running from Sept. 27 to 29.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi addresses ceremony awarding China’s highest state honors

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

    BEIJING, Sept. 29 — Chinese President Xi Jinping on Sunday addressed a ceremony held to award the highest state honors ahead of the 75th founding anniversary of the People’s Republic of China.

    Before his speech, Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, presented the Medal of the Republic, the Friendship Medal, and medals of national honorary titles at the Great Hall of the People.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi extends congratulations to recipients of China’s highest state honors

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

    BEIJING, Sept. 29 — Chinese President Xi Jinping on Sunday extended warm congratulations and high respects to recipients of China’s highest state honors ahead of the 75th founding anniversary of the People’s Republic of China.

    Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks at a ceremony held to award the Medal of the Republic, the Friendship Medal, and medals of national honorary titles at the Great Hall of the People.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi calls for forming mighty force to build strong China

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

    BEIJING, Sept. 29 — President Xi Jinping on Sunday called on the Chinese people to learn from heroes and role models to form a mighty force to build a strong China.

    Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks at a ceremony awarding the country’s highest state honors ahead of the 75th founding anniversary of the People’s Republic of China.

    China is in a crucial period for building a great modern socialist country in all respects and achieving national rejuvenation through Chinese modernization, Xi said.

    Xi emphasized the need to bear in mind the aspirations, hone the skills, and make contributions to building a strong China.

    He encouraged the Chinese people to strive for extraordinary achievements at ordinary job posts.

    He also urged them to make contributions to resolving challenges to development and reform, and safeguarding social harmony and stability.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi reiterates China’s commitment to safeguarding world peace, boosting common development

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

    Xi reiterates China’s commitment to safeguarding world peace, boosting common development

    BEIJING, Sept. 29 — President Xi Jinping on Sunday said Chinese people stand ready to work together with people of various countries to safeguard world peace and boost common development.

    Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks at a ceremony conferring the country’s highest state honors ahead of the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

    Xi called for joint efforts to build a human community with a shared future and create an even brighter future for humanity.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Benjamin Netanyahu is triumphant after Hassan Nasrallah’s assassination. But will it change anything?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ian Parmeter, Research Scholar, Centre for Arab and Islamic Studies, Australian National University

    Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has claimed a major victory following the assassination of longtime Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, saying it would change “the balance of power in the region for years to come”.

    This may be going further than the circumstances warrant, however. Certainly, the killing of Nasrallah is a remarkable personal victory for Netanyahu, who ordered the strike so he could claim direct responsibility for the action. And it goes a long way towards restoring the Israeli public’s faith in Netanyahu as a security guarantor for Israel.

    But there are many questions that now follow this action. Will Israel, for example, launch a ground invasion against Hezbollah in Lebanon?

    If it does, it would certainly find Hezbollah at its weakest point because of the destruction of its communications network in the Israeli attack on its pagers and walkie-talkies earlier this month.

    Israel has also killed eight of Hezbollah’s nine most senior military commanders and about half of its leadership council.

    To ensure this is a lasting victory, Israel really needs to follow up somehow. It needs to take the opportunity of Hezbollah’s disarray to destroy as much of the organisation and its arsenal of 150,000 missiles, rockets and drones as it can.

    By the same token, Hezbollah would certainly be able to inflict serious losses on Israeli ground forces if they go into southern Lebanon, not least because Hezbollah is reported to have an extensive tunnel network in the border area.

    And Hezbollah is a large organisation that claims to have as many as 100,000 fighters, though US intelligence believes it’s probably somewhere closer to 40,000–50,000. Even so, that is a formidable number of militants.

    Hezbollah, however, does not want to get involved in further fighting with Israel at this stage, if it can avoid it. It’s significant that, even after Israel’s most recent attacks, Hezbollah has not been firing thousands of missiles, rockets and drones daily into Israel, which it is believed to be capable of doing.

    Can Hezbollah regroup?

    There is no doubt this is an unprecedented blow to Hezbollah’s leadership and to the organisation itself.

    The first thing the group needs to do is re-establish its leadership. There are two names that have already been suggested: Hashem Safieddine, Nasrallah’s cousin, and Naim Qassem, Hezbollah’s deputy secretary-general.

    Then, the new leadership needs to investigate how deeply Hezbollah has been penetrated by Israeli intelligence. The killing of Nasrallah and the explosion of the pagers and walkie-talkies illustrate that Israel has extraordinarily good intelligence on the internal workings of Hezbollah.

    Lastly, Hezbollah has lost a lot of face in the eyes of the Lebanese public. Those in Lebanon who are against Hezbollah’s standing as a state within a state will oppose it even more now because they’ll say it’s simply not doing what it claims to do, which is protecting Lebanon from Israel.

    Hezbollah has never faced a critical situation like this before. That’s why whoever takes over is going to have a massive job to re-establish its credibility as a fighting force.

    But that said, it does have the capacity to re-establish itself because Hezbollah is a major organisation and very much a part of the Lebanese political scene. The Hezbollah-led coalition has a bloc of more than 60 seats in the Lebanese parliament – not a majority but significant nonetheless. It also provides social services for poor Shi’a residents in southern Beirut and southern Lebanon.

    The other major question is whether Iran, Hezbollah’s military backer, will react to the killing of Nasrallah.

    When Israel assassinated Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in July, Iran promised retaliation, but has not taken it yet.

    After the US assassination of Qassem Soleimani, the commander of the Quds Force in the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps, in Baghdad in 2020, Iran fired more than a dozen missiles at two bases in Iraq housing US troops, and that was it.

    In April, its reaction to the Israeli killing of some Islamic Revolutionary Guard personnel in the Iranian consulate in Damascus, Syria, was more intense. Tehran launched about 300 missiles, drones and rockets at Israel. But it also telegraphed its retaliation well in advance, and Israel’s Iron Dome, with the help of US defensive support, was able to prevent any significant damage.

    These recent reactions show it is clearly not in Iran’s interest to have a wider war take place at this time.



    Read more:
    Is Iran’s anti-Israel and American rhetoric all bark and no bite?

    Where does the region go from here?

    Hezbollah doesn’t have many friends in the Middle East, mainly because it is a militant group from the minority Shi’a sect of Islam, which has been seen as opposed to the interests of more moderate Sunni Arab states, including Egypt, Jordan and the Gulf states.

    Essentially, there will be some quiet satisfaction among Sunni Arab leaders that Nasrallah has gone because he was seen as someone who could cause a great deal of trouble for the region.

    Briefly, following the 2006 war between Hezbollah and Israel, Nasrallah was the most popular leader in the Arab world, according to opinion polls. That didn’t last very long, but he remained influential across the region.

    The other aspect that would make Sunni Arab states and leaders quietly comfortable with the removal of Nasrallah and the disarray (if only temporary) of Hezbollah is that all the fighting in the Middle East – the war in Gaza and now the conflict in Lebanon – is causing anger at street level in countries such as Egypt, Jordan and others in the region. This makes the region more unstable – and Sunni leaders nervous.

    At this stage, the elements that would be prepared to support Hezbollah are limited to the Houthi rebels in Yemen and Shi’a militia groups based in Iraq. But they’re both some distance away and aren’t able to materially affect the conflict in the region.

    With Iran not wanting an all-out war in the region, it’s not likely its leaders will be encouraging these proxy groups to get involved in a situation that could get further out of hand.

    So there are a lot of players who want to restore some sort of normality to the region. That includes the Biden administration, which fears the ongoing conflicts will divide the Democratic vote in the November US presidential election.

    This plays into Netanyahyu’s hands, as he is able to act independently of US attempts to rein him in. Whatever he does, he will continue to receive US military support.



    Read more:
    Does Hezbollah represent Lebanon? And what impact will the death of longtime leader Hassan Nasrallah have?

    Ian Parmeter does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Benjamin Netanyahu is triumphant after Hassan Nasrallah’s assassination. But will it change anything? – https://theconversation.com/benjamin-netanyahu-is-triumphant-after-hassan-nasrallahs-assassination-but-will-it-change-anything-240090

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 09/28/2024 Sen. Blackburn, Gov. Lee, Rep. Harshbarger Survey Storm Damage in East Tennessee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)

    BLOUNTVILLE, Tenn. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), along with Governor Bill Lee, Representative Diana Harshbarger (R-Tenn.), Tennessee House Speaker Cameron Sexton (R-Tenn.), and Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) Director Patrick Sheehan surveyed storm damage and met with local officials in East Tennessee.

    “I am heartbroken by the devastating damage in East Tennessee caused by the horrific storm. Thank you to our first responders, Tennessee National Guard, TEMA, and the countless other agencies that have been working around the clock to rescue Tennesseans.” – Senator Blackburn

    Click here to view Senator Blackburn’s remarks following tour of storm damage. 

    Following the devastating damage, Senator Blackburn led the entire Tennessee Congressional delegation in swiftly securing federal assistance. 

    RELATED 

    • The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) has established a hotline for the public needing to report a missing person in the ongoing East Tennessee flood emergency: 1-800-TBI-FIND.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The area near the Kashirskaya metro station is being reorganized by the owner under the KRT program

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    In the Nagatino-Sadovniki district, a site near the Kashirskaya station of the Big Circle Line of the metro will be reorganized. The owner of the site has given consent to the implementation of the project under the program of integrated development of territories (KRT). This was reported by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Urban Development Policy and Construction Vladimir Efimov.

    “The city plans to conclude a KRT agreement with the land owner. The area of 0.88 hectares is planned to be used for the construction of 53.6 thousand square meters of public and business real estate. Investments in the project implementation will exceed 16 billion rubles, and the annual budget effect will amount to almost 500 million rubles. As a result of the redevelopment of the site in Nagatino-Sadovniki, over 1.2 thousand jobs will appear,” said Vladimir Efimov.

    The site is located between Kashirskoe Shosse and Marshal Shestopalov Street. The rights to it belong to Avest LLC.

    “Over the course of four years, the construction of public and business facilities is planned on the site, including a 250-room hotel. A non-permanent shopping center with an area of 980 square meters will also be built on the territory,” noted the Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the capital’s Department of City Property

    Maxim Gaman.

    Earlier Sergei Sobyanin approved the plans for the integrated development of territories in the North-Eastern and Southern Administrative Districts.

    Sobyanin: KRT helps make city blocks modern and attractiveThe city has published 32 integrated territorial development projects since the beginning of the yearBy the end of the year, the number of implemented KRT projects will almost double

    According to the program of integrated development of territories, multifunctional city quarters are being created, where roads, comfortable housing and all necessary infrastructure are being designed on the site of former industrial zones and inefficiently used areas. Currently, 236 KRT projects with a total area of more than 3.1 thousand hectares are at various stages of implementation in Moscow. The projects are being developed on behalf of Sergei Sobyanin.

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

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/144529073/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The Moscow Longevity Project invites city residents to events in honor of the Day of the Older Generation

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    For the Day of the Older Generation, which is traditionally celebrated on October 1, master classes, intellectual games and creative meetings will be held at venues throughout the city.

    “The Day of the Older Generation is the best reason to visit the Moscow Longevity Centers and become part of a large community of active Muscovites of the “silver” age. The city has created unique opportunities for self-realization, creativity, communication and health improvement, and more than 580 thousand people have already taken advantage of them, changing their lives. On the Day of the Older Generation, the centers will host events that can be attended by the whole family, because it is fundamentally important for us that Muscovites begin to think about their longevity as early as possible,” said the deputy head of the capital’s Department of Labor and Social Protection of the Population.

    Vladimir Filippov.

    On September 29, guests are invited to attend the autumn festival for the whole family “Harvest Fest – 2024”, where an exhibition and fair of products from the project participants will be open all day “Moscow Longevity”. Visitors will be able to purchase unique handmade items: jewelry, household items, T-shirts with designer prints, as well as homemade preserves and seasonal vegetables. Guests will be treated to the art exhibition “Harvest” with designer installations and art objects with vegetables and fruits grown by participants in the “Moscow Longevity” project. The food court will feature dishes made from seasonal products. The festival will also feature concerts, master classes, and a carving lab (cutting out figures from fruits and vegetables). Find out the detailed schedule and You can register using the link.

    The festival will take place from 12:00 to 20:00 in the courtyard of the Moscow Longevity Center “Presnensky” (Presnensky Val Street, Building 14, Building 5).

    A photo exhibition will open on Tverskoy Boulevard and in Yekaterininsky Park on September 30 “Territory of the Future. Moscow 2030”. The stand of the Moscow Longevity project became one of the brightest and most creative at the site in Gostiny Dvor. The participants of the photo shoot, in the lens of photographer Dmitry Iskhakov, tried on the images of the younger generation and fantasized about what the long-livers of the future might be like.

    On October 1, the Day of the Older Generation, several events await city residents at once. Muscovites and their families are invited to the “Guest Day”, which will be held in all 134 centers Moscow longevityFrom 10:30 to 20:30 a unified festive program will be organized there.

    The morning will begin with energetic exercises and a culinary master class on baking charlotte. During the day, guests will be able to participate in creative activities: create souvenirs with their own hands, learn dance moves, learn about personal style, and study information technology.

    At 18:00, everyone is invited to the game “Longevity Quiz”. For the first time, 134 teams from Moscow longevity centers will play a quiz at the same time. Cinema, music, travel, sports, cooking – these are just some of the topics in which participants will test their knowledge. To play, you need to choose the nearest center, form a team of up to 10 people and register via the link. 

    At 19:30 the premiere of the series “I’m not OLD” will begin, the main characters of which are not professional actors, but participants of “Moscow Longevity”.

    The center’s specialists will tell guests about the project’s possibilities, help them choose classes, and enroll them in suitable groups.

    On October 2, from 09:00 to 18:00, the Sber office at 41 Oruzheyny Pereulok will host the Dobry Market, where they will present about a thousand products created by the hands of Moscow Longevity participants: toys, decorative items, jewelry, candles, bags, paintings, and more. Admission is free.

    New directions, “Longevity exercises” and star guests: how the summer season of the “Moscow Longevity” project wentFamily recipes and national cuisine: about 100 culinary clubs opened by participants of Moscow LongevityThe number of Moscow longevity centers has increased to 134 — Sergei Sobyanin

    All interested senior citizens are invited to join the classes of the Moscow Longevity project. You can choose a group and sign up for the project on the mos.ru portal or by contacting any center Moscow longevity.

    Moscow Longevity Projectis being implemented within the framework of the regional project “Older Generation” of the national project “Demography”. More information about this and other national projects implemented in Moscow, you can find out here.

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

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    https://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/144530073/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Rachmaninov, Glinka and Mozart: VDNKh to host concerts and lectures in honor of International Music Day

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    A thematic creative program was prepared at VDNKh in honor of International Music Day, which is celebrated annually on October 1. The events will last the entire month. This was reported by Natalia Sergunina, Deputy Mayor of Moscow.

    “The Worker and Kolkhoz Woman pavilion will host concerts, lectures and performances for Muscovites and tourists. For example, visitors will hear works by classics – Rachmaninov, Glinka, Bizet and Mozart,” said Natalia Sergunina.

    Entry to events is free, with prior registration required. on the VDNKh lecture hall page.

    The play “The Sign of the Opera” staged by the Moscow Puppet Theatre will be presented on October 2 at 19:00. The audience will travel through four famous stories – “The Magic Flute” by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, “Ivan Susanin” by Mikhail Glinka, “Orpheus and Eurydice” by Christoph Gluck and “Carmen” by Georges Bizet.

    On October 3 at 19:00 there will be a musical program “Russian Basses”. Arias and romances from the repertoire of the singer Fyodor Chaliapin will be performed by soloists of the State Academic Bolshoi Theater of Russia and the Moscow Academic Musical Theater named after K.S. Stanislavsky and V.I. Nemirovich-Danchenko.

    The Gnessin Baroque ensemble will perform ancient compositions from the 17th century on October 5 at 19:00.

    On October 9 at 19:00 there will be a concert “Sounding Canvases: Roerich” with sand animation inspired by the works of the famous artist. Guests will hear Armenian folk and liturgical melodies, as well as music performed on the duduk.

    On October 12 at 6:00 p.m. guests will be invited to the lecture “The Unearthly Beauty of the Soprano: From Ariadne to the Queen of Shemakha” from the series “The Opera Voice in History: Changing and Unchanging”.

    Listeners will get acquainted with the late works of the famous Russian composer Sergei Rachmaninoff and his last work, “Symphonic Dances,” at a lecture that will take place on October 27 at 16:00.

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

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    https://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/144532073/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Murder charge laid following Dargaville homicide

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police have today charged a man with murder following the discovery of a body in a vehicle on Ripiro Beach, Dargaville earlier this month.

    Jasmaine Corin Reihana, 35, was found dead inside a burnt out vehicle on 9 September.

    Since then, Police have been working to piece together the events leading up to her death and who was responsible.

    Detective Inspector Al Symonds, of Northland CIB, says today, Police have charged a 34-year-old man with murder.

    “Police have conducted an extensive investigation to ensure the person responsible for her murder can be held to account.

    “I would like to acknowledge the investigation team, who have worked tirelessly to get this result, and also those members of our community who have assisted our enquiries.

    “Thank you to everyone who has come forward with information during the course of this investigation.”

    Detective Inspector Symonds says Police are not looking for anyone else.

    “It has been our team’s focus to hold to account the person we will allege is responsible for Jasmine’s murder, and we hope this brings some relief to her whānau.”

    The murder accused will appear in Whangārei District Court on Monday 30 September.

    As this matter is before the Court, Police are unable to make any further comment.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Call for information – Parole revoked – Darwin

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Northern Territory Police are calling for public assistance to locate 29-year-old Norman Kernan.

    Mr Kernan’s parole was revoked yesterday, he is believed to be in the Darwin area.

    Members of the public are urged not to approach him and to immediately contact police.

    Anyone with information as to his whereabouts can make contact through 131 444 or report it anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Please quote occurrence NTP2400096609.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Discovery day of the Drize construction site in the heart of the future districts of the Praille Acacias Vernets (PAV) project on October 5, 2024 in Sicli

    MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

    Source: Switzerland – Canton Government of Geneva in French

    A discovery day of the Drize construction site is organized by the territorial department and the urban operator PAV. The public will have the opportunity to discover the work of restoring the Drize to the open air around the Sicli pavilion. On this occasion, exceptional access to the construction site of this first stage of 450 meters of river will be open to the public.

    Construction site focus on two key locations

    Launched at the end of 2023, the first stage of the work to restore the Drize to the open air in the Praille Acacias Vernets (PAV) area will allow the renaturation of 450 meters of river on two sections located on either side of the Route des Acacias, one on Rue Boissonnas, the other at the foot of the Pictet Campus in Rochemont currently under construction.

    These two sections will be available to visit on October 5 as part of tours organized and accompanied by professionals. Participants will be able to go down and see the structure under the Acacias road that allows the river to cross this major road axis. The installation of this exceptional structure of 15 concrete blocks of 50 to 60 tons was carried out during the coup de poing operation of the Easter weekend 2024.

    Another point of interest on the construction site: a 3D view of the Drize brought back into the open air in the future Acacias district from the Boissonnas viewpoint, complete with explanations on the role of water in an urban environment.

    A varied program for everyone

    The public is invited to discover the prototype wall of the Drize section. An opportunity to deepen one’s knowledge of the different stones used, ancestral masonry techniques and the benefits of the project in favor of biodiversity.

    Workshops for children are organized throughout the day on the theme of the river and water in an urban environment.

    Finally, the development project for the future districts of the Praille Acacias Vernets project will be presented around the large model installed in the Sicli pavilion. Professionals will be present to present the project to visitors and answer their questions.

    A unique project in Switzerland with a strong impact on the environment

    Restores the open air, the Drize will make it possible to secure the future districts built in the PAV perimeter against the risk of flooding and will become a real ecological corridor in the city center with a positive impact on the future districts of the PAV. It will contribute to the development of biodiversity and will bring freshness to the city.

    Along its banks, public spaces and a greenway for soft mobility as well as relaxation areas will be developed for the well-being of all. Finally, this renaturation will allow better management of urban water which will return to its natural cycle.

    By 2035, the entire original route of the Drize will return to the open air, crossing the future districts over 2.0 km between Grange-Collomb and the Arve.

    This open-air restoration of the Drize, eventually completed by that of the Aire, is part of the major regeneration project of the Praille Acacias Vernets area, the objective of which is to create nine new housing and business districts that meet the challenges of the ecological transition.

    Discovery day of the Drize construction site in Sicli (meeting place)

    Saturday October 5 from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

    Two visits every 30 minutes (last departure at 3:30 p.m.) A workshop and children’s walk every hour (last workshop at 3:00 p.m.) Photo exhibition of the construction site Presentation of the model of the Praille Acacias Vernets perimeter Prototype wall of the Drize Photo booth Small catering

    Practical arrangements

    Information and registration

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-Evening Report: New Australian opera Gilgamesh captures the power of one of the world’s most ancient masterpieces

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Louise Pryke, Honorary Research Associate, University of Sydney

    Daniel Boud/Opera Australia, Sydney Chamber Opera, Carriageworks

    Gilgamesh, a new opera from Opera Australia, Sydney Chamber Orchestra and Carriageworks, gives a visceral retelling of a story from a forgotten age, exploring ideas of love, tyranny and what it means to be human.

    This new production reimagines the legend for 21st century audiences, while engaging cleverly with the epic’s timeless themes.

    The young king, Gilgamesh (Jeremy Kleeman), starts out as a tyrant and goes on a journey to find the wisdom needed to become a just ruler.

    Along the way, he meets his companion, Enkidu (a remarkable Mitchell Riley), a man born in the wilderness and civilised through two weeks of sex with the wise priestess Shamhat (Jessica O’Donoghue).

    Together, Gilgamesh and Enkidu fight the monstrous forest guardian Humbaba (Daniel Szeisong Todd) and the mighty Bull of Heaven. They also unwisely provoke the beauteous goddess of love and war Ishtar (Jane Sheldon).

    The heroes’ rash actions anger the gods, leading to Enkidu’s untimely death. Gilgamesh seeks eternal life and renewed youth, before finally returning home.



    Read more:
    Guide to the classics: the Epic of Gilgamesh

    A rediscovered story

    This production is the first English language opera of the Epic of Gilgamesh, a literary masterpiece from ancient Mesopotamia.

    The story was first written down on clay tablets in the cuneiform script more than 4,000 years ago. Although Gilgamesh was famous in the ancient world, his story disappeared from cultural awareness along with the ability to read cuneiform around the 1st century CE.

    The story was first written down in cuneiform script over 4,000 years ago.
    Daniel Boud/Opera Australia, Sydney Chamber Opera, Carriageworks

    In a feat of scholarly virtuosity, 19th century scholars deciphered the rediscovered cuneiform script, using a kind of Persian Rosetta Stone known as the Behistun monument.

    In 1857, the Royal Asiatic Society held a kind of “cuneiform competition”, where scholars completed secret translations of a previously unseen inscription.

    When their translations were found to be very similar, it was clear the secrets of the complex script had finally been unlocked.

    Music and myth

    In the 150 years since the Epic of Gilgamesh was rediscovered, the legend has inspired music spanning numerous genres, from hip hop, to Australian indie pop, to metal.

    As with this new opera, many of these modern adaptations have focused on the loving relationship between the story’s two heroes, Gilgamesh and Enkidu. Their connection has been viewed as the world’s first bromance, or one of the oldest known love stories.

    The opera leans into the transformative nature of heroes’ epic love: Enkidu’s wildman innocence is corrupted by Gilgamesh; Gilgamesh is emboldened by the presence of his lover.

    There is much to admire in the approach to the text taken by composer Jack Symonds and librettist Louis Garrick.

    At times, excerpts of text from an English translation of the epic are incorporated into the score. This use of ancient prose is particularly effective in the scene where Gilgamesh rudely rejects Ishtar’s marriage proposal; it would be difficult to create a more brutal polemic than that employed by Gilgamesh against the goddess in the ancient narrative.

    At other times, new scenes and dialogue are crafted to draw deeper from the rich well of narrative ideas. This can be seen where Ishtar and Shamhat plan to civilise Enkidu (engineered by Gilgamesh in the original story), and a scene where Gilgamesh and Enkidu become lovers in the Cedar Forest.

    The production

    Kleeman gives a heroic turn as a man struggling to comprehend his mortality and his growing love for Enkidu.

    Sheldon is divine as Ishtar the vengeful goddess of love, seamlessly blending the deity’s power and unpredictability.

    As Utanapishti, the legendary flood survivor often compared with biblical Noah, Jessica O’Donoghue gives a haunting performance suited to one who has witnessed the destruction of most of humanity.

    The set design mirrors the combination of scale and simplicity seen in the narrative.
    Daniel Boud/Opera Australia, Sydney Chamber Opera, Carriageworks

    The set (design by Elizabeth Gadsby) uses as its centrepiece a Chinese elm tree with 1,000 gold fabric leaves, mirroring the combination of scale and simplicity seen in the narrative.

    This reflects the creative team’s engagement with the epic’s ecological themes. The Cedar Forest is recognised in the original epic for its aesthetic and commercial value. Its destruction by the heroes is an act of sacrilege.

    Directed by Kip Williams, Gilgamesh emphasises the violence of environmental destruction through the bloody death of the forest guardian Humbaba in a stomach-turning scene slippery with gore.

    At times, the production is stomach-turning and slippery with gore.
    Daniel Boud/Opera Australia, Sydney Chamber Opera, Carriageworks

    The love story between Gilgamesh and Enkidu is at the opera’s heart. Building on the intimate connection between the heroes in the ancient story, the two heroes sing songs of love together. Their vocal performances are matched with a dynamic physicality as they wrestle, embrace and cradle one another.

    Those familiar with Gilgamesh will enjoy discovering where new creative directions have been taken in the opera. For those new to the story, the opera gives a vibrant introduction into the power and drama of one of the world’s most ancient masterpieces.

    In the Babylonian legend, Gilgamesh finally abandons his quest for immortality. With this exciting new production of the epic, his ancient song of love and loss will continue to live on long into the future.

    Gilgamesh,by Opera Australia, Sydney Chamber Orchestra and Carriageworks, is at Carriageworks, Sydney, until October 5.

    Louise Pryke was a guest of the Gilgamesh production.

    – ref. New Australian opera Gilgamesh captures the power of one of the world’s most ancient masterpieces – https://theconversation.com/new-australian-opera-gilgamesh-captures-the-power-of-one-of-the-worlds-most-ancient-masterpieces-237765

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Convenient routes will be laid between the Perovo MCD-3, metro and Shosse Entuziastov MCC stations

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Specialists from the city services complex are developing convenient pedestrian and transport routes between the Perovo station of the third Moscow Central Diameter, the metro and Shosse Entuziastov of the Moscow Central Circle in the east of the capital. This was reported by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Housing and Public Utilities and Improvement Petr Biryukov.

    “The main task is to ensure pedestrian and transport accessibility of the stations and significant objects that are located nearby, this is a medical center, a hospital, a clinic, several schools. The improvement boundaries include Elektrodnaya, Perovskaya, Kuskovskaya and Plekhanova streets,” noted Petr Biryukov.

    Specialists will widen sidewalks and replace their surfaces with a total area of 47.3 thousand square meters. 42 thousand square meters of asphalt will be laid on the roadway, parking will be organized for almost 250 cars. There will also be 17 public transport stops with wireless communication and charging slots.

    The lighting systems in the area will be modernized. The area around transport facilities will be illuminated by more than 160 lanterns and 345 street lamps with energy-efficient bulbs. Unregulated pedestrian crossings will be equipped with 75 contrast lighting supports.

    Seven playgrounds and three sports areas will be renovated. Three more new playgrounds will be improved – for basketball, teqball and outdoor exercise equipment. A park will be improved on Plekhanov Street, and a 450-square-meter concrete pump track with skate park elements will be built for teenagers and young people.

    More than 71 thousand square meters of lawn and over a thousand square meters of flower beds will be laid out near the stations. In the fall, it is planned to plant more than 60 linden and maple trees, 4.1 thousand shrubs.

    The areas around 10 Moscow metro stations will be improved this year — SobyaninMoscow Mayor Announces Plans for Improvement of Areas Near Metro Stations

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

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/144537073/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Urban development plans for land plots for the construction of private homes in TiNAO have been released

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Private houses will be built in the Troitsky and Novomoskovsky administrative districts. The capital’s five urban development plans for land plots with a total area of 0.62 hectares have been drawn up Committee on Architecture and Urban Development (Moskomarkhitektura). This was reported by Juliana Knyazhevskaya, Chairman of the Committee.

    The plots are located in the villages of Konakovo, Krucha, Rassudovo and Pesye, as well as in the settlement of Rogovo. The settlements are in the districts of Bekasovo, Voronovo and Krasnopakhorsky.

    “The total area of development on each site will not exceed 440 square meters. The settlements where houses will appear as part of individual housing construction are promising territories. There, conditions are created for comfortable living in private houses with all the necessary infrastructure within the city limits,” noted Yuliana Knyazhevskaya.

    Earlier, Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Urban Development Policy and Construction Vladimir Efimov said that from 2020 Muscovites bought it out about 500 land plots with a 60 percent discount for individual housing construction.

    Muscovites have signed over 300 contracts with the city to purchase land for housing constructionMuscovites have purchased more than six hectares of land for the construction of private homes since the beginning of the year

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

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/144540073/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: FS begins UK visit

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Financial Secretary Paul Chan began his visit to London yesterday where he attended the annual “Hong Kong Dinner” engagement to share the latest developments in Hong Kong with participants.
     
    The dinner event, with about 350 leaders from the British political and business sectors and professionals invited to attend, was organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council.
     
    In his keynote speech delivered at the event, Mr Chan highlighted Hong Kong’s commitment to the rule of law and its competitive status in the global economy.
     
    “This is exemplified by the ranking, last year, of Hong Kong’s rule of law under the World Justice (Project) Rule of Law Index. Coming in 23rd out of 142 countries and jurisdictions, we may trail the UK, but we are still ahead of the US. And we were in the top 10 in the absence of corruption.
     
    “And, just two days ago, the Global Financial Centres Index announced that Hong Kong had climbed back to third overall – and gunning for London. We need to be ambitious.”
     
    Apart from pointing out that Hong Kong has a bright development outlook, Mr Chan welcomed British businesses and talent to explore opportunities in the city.
     
    In the morning, the Financial Secretary attended the plenary of the Hong Kong-Europe Business Council and a roundtable meeting hosted by the UK-based think tank Asia House. During the session, he introduced Hong Kong’s development strategies to European financial and business leaders, focusing on consolidating and enhancing the city’s development as international financial, trade, and shipping centre.
     
    In the afternoon, Mr Chan met UK Economic Secretary to the Treasury Tulip Siddiq and Governor of the Bank of England Andrew Bailey to discuss matters of mutual concern.
     
    He also called on Chinese Ambassador to the UK Zheng Zeguang, and introduced the latest situation and development directions of Hong Kong.
     
    Mr Chan will continue his visit in London today.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New appointment to the ABC Board

    Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development

    The Albanese Government has appointed Ms Katrina Sedgwick OAM as a non-executive Director to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) Board for a five-year term.

    Ms Sedgwick has extensive experience in the arts sector including performance, screen, festivals, museums, commissioning, and administration. In 2020 she received an Order of Australia Medal for Services to Film, Theatre, and Visual Arts Administration.

    Ms Sedgwick is currently the Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Melbourne Arts Precinct Corporation, and has previously held these positions at the Adelaide Film Festival and the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI).

     In addition, Ms Sedgwick has held board positions at Back to Back Theatre, the Australian Children’s Television Foundation, Chunky Move, Art Gallery of South Australia, and the Australian Film Television and Radio School, and was the Head of Arts at the ABC between 2012 and 2015.

    Ms Sedgwick’s skills and experience will support the ABC to continue to deliver on its Charter to provide programs that contribute to a sense of national identity and inform and entertain, and reflect the cultural diversity of the Australian community, as well as to encourage and promote the musical, dramatic and other performing arts in Australia.

    This non-executive Director was nominated for appointment by the Nomination Panel as part of the merit-based appointment process for the ABC and SBS Boards.

    Ms Sedgwick will commence in the role on 2 October 2024 and will replace the outgoing member, Mr Peter Lewis, whose term expires on 1 October 2024.

    The Government acknowledges and thanks Mr Lewis for his significant contribution to the ABC Board over two terms.

    For more information on the ABC Board visit www.abc.net.au/about/abc-board

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP:

     “I thank Peter Lewis for his service on the ABC Board, during which time he made a valuable contribution to supporting the ABC’s continuing success in keeping Australians informed and entertained, and I congratulate Katrina Sedgwick on her appointment. 

    “Ms Sedgwick brings a strong creative boost to the Board alongside relevant executive and board-level experience, and increases the geographic diversity of the board with resident Victorian representation. 

    “I look forward to working with the Board and Ms Sedgwick into the future.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Doing What Matters: Future-proofing the Cunningham Highway

    Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development

    Work is progressing to future-proof the Cunningham Highway, with critical planning funding being directed to long-term improvements in two priority areas.

    The Albanese and Miles Labor Governments jointly committed $20 million for detailed planning on the Cunningham Highway, which will be used to undertake businesses cases on the Ipswich-Rosewood Road (Amberley) intersection and Ripley Road and Swanbank Road interchanges.

    The Australian Government is providing $16 million towards the project, with the Queensland Government providing the remaining $4 million.

    The Ipswich-Rosewood Road (Amberley) intersection planning will investigate options for a long-term solution at the intersection, including grade separation, a bypass or duplication of the highway.

    It will also take into consideration feedback received from the community during the consultation process and focus on improving safety for all users of this important transport connection.

    The Ipswich-Rosewood Road (Amberley) intersection is a key connection for freight and the local community. It also acts as the main access point to Australia’s largest operational military air base – Royal Australian Air Force Base Amberley.  

    This project is part of the Australian Government’s broader $170 million investment in the Cunningham Highway.  

    As planning progresses, the Queensland Government will continue to keep the community and stakeholders updated.

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

    “Our aim is to identify and implement a way to improve safety and efficiency for both local residents and freight vehicles.

    “The business case will consider how best to improve connections to the Royal Australian Air Force Amberley base.

    “So much work goes into detailed planning for an upgrade of this calibre, and we want to ensure the design options reflect the needs of the community.”

    Quotes attributable to Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Bart Mellish:

    “Only a Miles Labor Government will work with the Albanese Government to prioritise Cunningham Highway funding to enable upgrades to priority locations.

    “The Cunningham Highway and Ipswich Rosewood Road (Amberley) intersection is our highest priority on the Cunningham Highway.

    “Following community feedback, we recognise the need to focus on the long-term solution given growing demands in the area.

    “The Ipswich-Rosewood Road (Amberley) intersection is a key connection for freight and the local community as well as servicing the main access point to Australia’s largest operational military air base—the Royal Australian Air Force Base Amberley.

    “Additionally we know the Ripley Road and Swanbank Road exits are important interchanges for the community and an upgrade of these is a priority for the Miles and Albanese governments.”

    Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Blair Shayne Neumann:

    “I have advocated strongly for a long-term solution to the Cunningham Highway and Amberley intersection to support our fast-growing Ipswich region.

    “This commitment is the first step in fixing the Amberley intersection and addressing growing traffic congestion challenges at the Ripley and Swanbank interchanges.

    “A long-term solution to the Cunningham Highway would improve safety at the Amberley intersection, boost freight connectivity through the region, and reduce congestion for residents in Ipswich’s growth corridor and defence personnel at RAAF Base Amberley.

     “The Australian and Queensland Governments will continue to work together to ensure Queensland receives the quality infrastructure it deserves.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI: Notice on Convening an Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders of AB Amber Grid

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    On the initiative and by decision of the Board of AB Amber Grid (legal entity code 303090867, registered office address Laisvės av. 10, LT-04215 Vilnius, Lithuania), the Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders of AB Amber Grid is convened at the Company’s registered office (address Laisvės av. 10, Vilnius) on 18 October 2024 at 10:00 am.

    Draft Agenda of the Meeting:

    1) Approval of the conclusion of the Humanitarian Aid Contract

    Shareholder registration will commence at 9.15 a.m., 18 October 2024.
    Shareholder registration will be closed at 9.45 a.m., 18 October 2024.

    Record day of the General Meeting of Shareholders: October 11, 2024. Attendance and voting at the General Meeting of Shareholders shall be open to those persons who will be shareholders of the Company at the end of the record day of the General Meeting of Shareholders.
    A person attending the General Meeting of Shareholders and entitled to vote must provide a proof of identity. A person who is not a shareholder shall, in addition to the aforementioned document, provide a document confirming his/her right to vote at the General Meeting.
    Participation and voting at the General Meeting of Shareholders by electronic means shall not be possible.

    On 26 September, 2024, the Board of the Company approved the agenda of the General Meeting of Shareholders and the draft decision of the Meeting:

    1) Approval of the conclusion of the Humanitarian Aid Contract

    Proposed draft resolution:

    “1.1. In accordance with the procedure laid down in Article 11(21) of the Law on Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Aid of the Republic of Lithuania, upon the recommendation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Lithuania and the approval of the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Lithuania, to enter into a Humanitarian Aid Contract with the Ukrainian company KHMELNYTSKOBLENERGO and to approve the following main terms of the Humanitarian Aid Contract:
    1.1.1. The subject matter of the Contract is humanitarian assistance to Ukraine’s energy sector. The humanitarian aid shall be provided through the transfer of 4 generators and 46 vehicles with a balance sheet value of EUR 60 285,53;
    1.1.2. The parties to the Contract shall be Amber Grid AB and the Ukrainian company KHMELNYTSKOBLENERGO;
    1.1.3. The purpose of humanitarian aid is the operation of energy infrastructure in wartime to meet the basic needs of people in wartime.
    1.2 To authorise the Chief Executive Officer of the Company (with the right to sub-delegate) to sign the Humanitarian Aid Contract in accordance with the material terms and conditions of the Contract as set out in Clause 1.1, and to agree the other (non-material) terms and conditions of the Contract on behalf of the Company.”.
    The Company’s shareholders may access the draft decisions of the General Meeting of Shareholders and other additional materials related to the General Meeting of Shareholders and the exercise of shareholders’ rights at the Central Regulated Information Database at www.crib.lt and on the Company’s website www.ambergrid.lt.

    The shareholders of Amber Grid AB, whose shares carry at least 1/20 of the total number of votes, shall have the right to supplement the agenda of the General Meeting of Shareholders. The proposal to supplement the agenda shall be submitted in writing by registered mail or delivered to the Company’s registered office at Laisvės av. 10, LT-04215 Vilnius (hereinafter referred to as the “Headquarters”). The proposal shall be accompanied by draft decisions on the proposed items or, where no decisions are required, explanations on each proposed item on the agenda of the General Meeting of Shareholders. The agenda shall be supplemented if the proposal is received by 4 October, 2024 at the latest.

    Shareholders holding shares representing at least 1/20 of the total votes shall have the right to propose new draft decisions in writing on the items on the agenda of the meeting at any time before or during the General Meeting of Shareholders. Such proposal shall be in writing and submitted to the Company by registered mail or delivered to the Headquarters. A proposal made at the meeting shall be registered in writing and forwarded to the Secretary of the General Meeting of Shareholders.

    Shareholders shall have the right to submit to the Company questions relating to the agenda of the General Meeting of Shareholders to be held October 18, 2024 in advance, no later than by 15 October, 2024. Questions shall be in writing and shall be submitted to the Company by registered mail or delivered to the Headquarters. The Company will not provide an answer to a question submitted by a shareholder in person if the relevant information is available on the Company’s website.

    Each shareholder shall have the right to authorise a natural or a legal person to attend and vote on his/her behalf at a General Meeting of Shareholders. The authorized person shall have an identity document and a power of attorney certified in accordance with the procedure established by laws, which shall be delivered to the Headquarters no later than by the close of registration for the General Meeting of Shareholders. The authorized person shall have the same rights at the General Meeting of Shareholders as the shareholder he/she represents. The form of a power of attorney for representation at the General Meeting of Shareholders is available on the Company’s website at www.ambergrid.lt.

    Shareholders may vote on the items on the agenda of the General Meeting of Shareholders in writing by completing a general ballot paper. If a shareholder so requests, the Company shall send the general ballot paper form by registered mail or deliver it in person against signature free of charge no later than 10 days before the General Meeting of Shareholders. The completed general ballot paper shall be signed by the shareholder or his/her authorised representative. If the completed general ballot paper has been signed by a person who is not a shareholder, the completed ballot paper shall be accompanied by a document confirming the right to vote. The duly completed general ballot paper shall be submitted to the Company by registered mail or delivered against signature at the Headquarters not later than the close of shareholder registration for the General Meeting of Shareholders. The form of the general ballot paper is available on the Company’s website at www.ambergrid.lt.

    The total number of shares at the date of convening of the meeting was 178 382 514. All these shares carry voting rights.

    The information provided for in Article 26 (2) of the Law on Companies of the Republic of Lithuania will be available on the Company’s website at www.ambergrid.lt.

    Information on supplements to the agenda and on the decisions adopted by the meeting will also be available on the Central Regulated Information Database www.crib.lt.

    Annexes:
    1. Voting ballot of AB Amber Grid;
    2. Form of the power of attorney of AB Amber Grid;
    3. Press release.

    More information:
    Laura Šebekienė, Head of Communications of AB Amber Grid,
    +370 699 61 246, l.sebekiene@ambergrid.lt

    Attachments

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Large capital gains on Danes’ securities holdings

    Source: Danmarks Nationalbank

    Securities

    Statistics period: August 2024

    Since the beginning of 2023, the value of Danes’ securities has grown by 294 billion kr. This development is almost exclusively driven by capital gains, especially on Danish and foreign stocks, as net purchases were merely 37 billion kr. In comparison, Danes bought securities for a net amount of 86 billion kr. from April 2020 to December 2021, which was the last time the stock market delivered high returns over a longer period. The net purchase since 2023 includes, among other things, sales of Danish stocks for 15 billion kr. and purchases of Danish bonds as well as foreign stocks and investment funds for 50 billion kr. At the end of August, the value of Danes’ securities was 1,258 billion kr., which is on par with their deposits in financial institutions.

    Growth in securities holdings driven by capital gains

    Note:

    Danes’ (employees and pensioners, etc.) investments in securities. The holdings include both individual pension savings in banks and freely invested funds.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI China: Shanghai Stock Exchange probing into slow confirmation of stock transactions

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    China’s Shanghai Stock Exchange said Friday it is probing into the slow confirmation of stock transactions found after the opening of Friday’s morning session.

    The exchange will continue to keep investors informed, and investors may contact their designated securities firms for assistance if they encounter any problems or have any questions, it said in a statement.

    China’s major stock indices surged in the morning session Friday. The benchmark Shanghai Composite Index rose 2.14 percent to 3,065.29 points at midday, and the Shenzhen Component Index soared 6.37 percent to 9,484.81.

    The country’s stock market has been on a rising streak over the past few days with heavier trading. The turnover of stocks covered by the two major indices surpassed 1 trillion yuan (about 143 billion U.S. dollars) for the second consecutive day.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM meeting with Prime Minister Mottley of Barbados: 26 September 2024

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The Prime Minister met Prime Minister Mia Mottley of Barbados at UNGA. 

    The Prime Minister met Prime Minister Mia Mottley of Barbados at UNGA. 

    Both leaders stressed the strength of the relationship between their two countries and discussed the importance of working together on key issues such as international financial institution reform, climate change and pandemic preparedness.

    They looked forward to meeting again soon.

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Press release: PM meeting with Prime Minister Mottley of Barbados: 26 September 2024

    Source: United Kingdom – Prime Minister’s Office 10 Downing Street

    The Prime Minister met Prime Minister Mia Mottley of Barbados at UNGA. 

    The Prime Minister met Prime Minister Mia Mottley of Barbados at UNGA. 

    Both leaders stressed the strength of the relationship between their two countries and discussed the importance of working together on key issues such as international financial institution reform, climate change and pandemic preparedness.

    They looked forward to meeting again soon.

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –