Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, Oct. 31 — Xi Jinping, chairman of the Central Military Commission, has signed a decree to promulgate a set of interim regulations on the management of reserve personnel.
The regulations aim to facilitate the implementation of China’s law on reservists.
The regulations focus on establishing a systematic management structure for reserve personnel in the new era, detailing processes for their selection, rank promotion, role assignments, training, assessments, benefits and retirement from reserve service.
An important outcome of China’s military human resource reform, the promulgation of the regulations marks a key step to improve the legal, standardized and scientific management of reservists and develop a high-caliber, professional reserve force.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, Oct. 31 — Preparations are nearly complete for the seventh China International Import Expo (CIIE), set for November 5-10 in Shanghai, the Ministry of Commerce said on Thursday.
Ministry spokesperson He Yadong said at a press conference that exhibits from over 2,700 participating companies have entered the exhibition halls, while those from more than 700 companies are still in transit and will arrive by Nov. 2.
The spokesperson said foreign bank cards will be accepted for catering payments at the CIIE. The expo will feature a 5,000-square-meter catering zone and offer food delivery services to all booths.
The seventh CIIE has attracted participants from 152 countries, regions and international organizations, and achieved a new record with 297 Fortune Global 500 companies and industry leaders set to attend.
Since its first edition in 2018, the expo has become an important showcase, spotlighting China’s new development paradigm, a platform for high-standard opening up, and an opportunity for the whole world.
Hong Kong’s economy grew 1.8% in the third quarter of 2024 over the same period a year earlier, down from a 3.2% increase in the second quarter, the Census & Statistics Department announced today.
According to the advance estimates, gross domestic product (GDP) decreased by 1.1% in real terms in the third quarter of this year on a seasonally adjusted quarter-to-quarter basis.
Private consumption expenditure dropped 1.4% in the third quarter year-on-year, following a decrease of 1.6% in the second quarter. Government consumption expenditure rose 2.1% year-on-year, as against a 2.2% increase in the second quarter.
Gross domestic fixed capital formation increased by 3.7% in the third quarter of this year over a year earlier, following an increase of 4.1% in the preceding quarter.
Over the same period, total goods exports recorded an increase of 3.9% over a year earlier, moderating from a 7.5% increase in the second quarter. Goods imports grew 2.6%, compared with a 3.4% increase in the preceding quarter.
Exports of services rose 2.4% in the third quarter over a year earlier, as against a 1.1% increase in the second quarter. Imports of services climbed by 8.2%, following an increase of 12.3% in the preceding quarter.
The Government said that Hong Kong’s economy continued to expand in the third quarter of 2024 over a year earlier and highlighted that total goods exports saw decelerated year-on-year growth alongside softening economic growth in some major markets.
Looking ahead, it added that the economy should continue to grow in the remainder of the year. In particular, the gradual easing of financial conditions should bode well for fixed asset investment.
A possible easing of the Hong Kong dollar alongside the US dollar, coupled with the central government’s various measures benefitting Hong Kong, the Government’s various initiatives to boost market sentiment, and increasing employment earnings are conducive to spending by both residents and visitors in the domestic market. However, the change in their consumption patterns will continue to pose challenges.
The revised GDP figures for the third quarter of 2024 and a revised forecast for the whole year will be released on November 15.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The Hong Kong Museum of Art (HKMoA) launched the new exhibition “Hong Kong Artist Dialogue Series: Beyond Delight” at the Art Square in the museum’s forecourt, showcasing a large-scale public art installation, “Wandering through Snuff Bottles”, collaborated by local art group STICKYLINE (Mic Leong and Soilworm Lai) and artist Cynthia Mak.
A snuff bottle is an exquisite miniature piece of craftsmanship, each uniquely designed and intricately carved with its own story hidden in its small world. Inspired by the HKMoA’s “Art of Gifting: The Fuyun Xuan Collection of Chinese Snuff Bottles” exhibition, the art group extracted forms and visual elements found in traditional Chinese snuff bottles and revitalised the concept with exquisitely lifelike animal-inspired designs of snuff bottles. By reinterpreting snuff bottles in a contemporary visual art language, a colourful snuff bottle maze was created. Visitors can enjoy a unique artistic experience by navigating and exploring passageways, corridors and arches in the maze. The artistic team’s creative reimagining presents other perspectives of snuff bottles, bringing visitors into a whimsical space and inspiring an endless realm of imagination.
The Art Square presentation realises the idea of a wall-less exhibition, extending the indoor exhibition gallery into an open public space. It also allows artists to draw inspiration from the rich collections of the HKMoA to create a unique and delightful artistic dialogue.
The exhibition is being staged at the Art Square in the forecourt of the HKMoA (10 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon). For details of the exhibition, please visit the website at hk.art.museum/en/web/ma/exhibitions-and-events/beyond-delight.html or call 2721 0116 for enquiries.
Idea of Sardar Patel for a Strong Bharat Immortalised with Sincere & Renewed effort of Nation Building of PM Narendra Modi Govt: Sarbananda Sonowal Sarbananda Sonowal took Pledge on ‘Rashtriya Ekta Diwas’ as all Organisations of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways Virtually Join in to Preserve the Unity, Integrity & Security
Posted On: 31 OCT 2024 2:27PM by PIB Delhi
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW), Shri Sarbananda Sonowal celebrated the ‘Rashtriya Ekta Diwas’ (National Unity Day) as all the organisations virtually took the pledge to preserve the unity, integrity and security after the Union Minister read out the pledge along with thousands of colleagues who virtually joined the programme.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Sonowal said, “The idea of Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel for a strong Bharat has been immortalised with sincere and renewed effort of Nation Building by the Narendra Modi led government for more than a decade. PM Modi has worked tirelessly to inspire the national consciousness and to use it to unify the country. The ‘Sabka Sath, Sabka Vikas’ philosophy is akin to Sardar Patel’s effort to bring all the princely states to join force for a strong nation. On this strong foundation laid down by the valiant & selfless efforts of Sardar Patel, the country is moving towards realising the idea of ‘Ek Bharat, Shresth Bharat’. The path laid down by Sardar Patel is the one that PM Narendra Modi ji has taken to lead the country towards creating an inclusive development of the country. I offer my homage to this great persona of Sardar Patel for his invaluable contribution towards building a strong nation.”
The event started when the Union Minister Shri Sonowal did ‘Pad Puja’ by offering floral tributes to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel image at the event.
The event was attended by the Union Minister of State for MoPSW, Shantanu Thakur; the ex-Union Minister of State & MP (Rajya Sabha), Rameswar Teli; the Minister in the Govt of Assam, Jogen Mohan; the Chairman of AIDC & MLA, Dibrugarh, Prasanta Phukan; the MLA of Chabua, Punakan Baruah; the Secretary of MoPWA, T K Ramachandran; the Vice Chancellor of Dibrugarh University, Prof Jiten Hazarika; the Principal, Assam Medical College, Prof Sanjeeb Kakati; the Mayor of Dibrugarh Municipal Corporation (DMC), Dr Saikat Patra; among other dignitaries and people.
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi pays homage to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at the Statue of Unity in Kevadia, Gujarat, participates in Rashtriya Ekta Diwas Celebrations Rashtriya Ekta Diwas honours Sardar Patel’s invaluable contributions towards unifying the nation, May this day strengthen the bonds of unity in our society: PM
India is deeply motivated by his vision and unwavering commitment to our nation, His efforts continue to inspire us to work towards a stronger nation:PM
Sardar Patel’s 150th birth anniversary year, starting today, will be celebrated as a festival across the country for the next 2 years, This will further strengthen our resolve of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshta Bharat’: PM
The image of the historic Raigad Fort of Maharashtra is also visible in Ekta Nagar of Kevadia, which has been the sacred land of the values of social justice, patriotism and nation first: PM
Being a true Indian, it is the duty of all of us countrymen to fill every effort for unity of the country with enthusiasm and zeal: PM
In the last 10 years, the new model of good governance in the country has removed every scope for discrimination: PM
In the last few years, India has succeeded in every effort to live with ‘unity in diversity’: PM
Today every citizen of the country is happy that after Seven decades of independence, the resolution of one country, one constitution has been fulfilled: PM
In the last 10 years, we have resolved many issues that were a threat to national unity: PM
Due to our tireless efforts,our tribal brothers and sisters have got development as well as confidence of a better future: PM
Today, we have before us an India which has vision, direction and determination: PM
We have to be very cautious of some people, troubled by India’s growing strength and sense of unity, wanting to break the country and divide the society: PM
Posted On: 31 OCT 2024 1:10PM by PIB Delhi
The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi today participated in the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas celebrations at the Statue of Unity in Kevadia,Gujarat. The Prime Minister offered a floral tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his birth anniversary. Shri Modi also administered the Ekta Diwas pledge and witnessed Ekta Diwas Parade on the occasion of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas which is celebrated every year on October 31to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
The Prime Minister said, “Sardar sahab’s powerful words…this program near the Statue of Unity…this panoramic view of Ekta Nagar…the wonderful performances held here…this glimpse of mini India…everything is so amazing…it is inspiring.” Extending greetings to all the countrymen on National Unity Day, the Prime Minister said that just like 15 August and 26 January, this event on 31 October fills the entire country with new energy.
On the occasion of Diwali the Prime Minister conveyed his wishes to all the Indians living in the country and the world. He noted, this time the National Unity Day has brought a wonderful coincidence of celebrating this festival of unity along with the festival of Deepawali. “Deepawali, through the medium of lamps, connects the whole country, illuminates the whole country. And now the festival of Deepawali is also connecting India with the world”, he added.
The Prime Minister underlined that this year’s Ekta Diwas is more special as Sardar Patel’s 150th birth anniversary year is starting from today. For the next 2 years, the country will celebrate Sardar Patel’s 150th birth anniversary. This is the country’s tribute to his extraordinary contribution to India. The Prime Minister emphasised that this celebration of two years will strengthen our resolve for one India, great India. This occasion will teach us that even the seemingly impossible can be made possible, he added.
Shri Modi underscored how Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj united everyone to drive away the invaders. Raigad Fort of Maharashtra still tells that story. Raigad Fort has been the sacred land of the values of social justice, patriotism and nation first, he added. “Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj had united the different ideas of the nation for one purpose in the Raigad Fort. Today here in Ekta Nagar, we are seeing the image of that historic fort of Raigad…. Today, in this background, we have united here for the accomplishment of the resolution of a developed India”, the Prime Minister said.
The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi reiterated how India has seen remarkable achievements in strengthening unity and integrity, over the past decade. This commitment is evident in various government initiatives, exemplified by Ekta Nagar and the Statue of Unity. This monument symbolises unity not just in name but also in its construction as it is built with iron and soil gathered from villages nationwide. Ekta Nagar features Ekta Nursery, Vishwa Van with flora from every continent, Children Nutrition Park promoting healthy foods from across India, Arogya Van highlighting Ayurveda from different regions, and Ekta Mall, where handicrafts from around the country are showcased together, the Prime Minister underlined.
The Prime Minister exhorted that being a true Indian, it is the duty of all of us to celebrate every effort towards unity of the country. He underlined that the emphasis on Indian languages under the new National Education Policy, including granting classical status to Marathi, Bengali, Assamese, Pali, and Prakrit, has been warmly welcomed and reinforces national unity. Alongside language, connectivity projects like expanding rail networks to Jammu and Kashmir and the North East, high-speed internet access to Lakshadweep and Andaman-Nicobar, and mobile networks in mountainous areas are bridging rural and urban divides. This modern infrastructure ensures that no region feels left behind, fostering a stronger sense of unity across India.
“Pujya Bapu used to say that our ability to live with unity in diversity will be constantly tested. And we have to keep passing this test at all costs”, the Prime Minister underscored. Shri Modi said that in the last 10 years, India has succeeded in every effort to live with unity in diversity. The government has constantly strengthened the spirit of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat in its policies and decisions. The Prime Minister lauded other government initiatives, including “One Nation, One Identity” through Aadhaar, and additional efforts to establish “One Nation” models like GST and the National Ration Card, creating a more integrated system that connects all states under a single framework. As part of our efforts for unity, we are now working on One Nation, One Election, One Nation, One Civil Code, i.e. Secular Civil Code”, the Prime Minister added.
Reflecting on ten years of governance, the Prime Minister celebrated the removal of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir as a milestone, declaring, “For the first time, the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir took the oath under the Indian Constitution,” calling it a major milestone for India’s unity. He praised the patriotic spirit of the people of Jammu and Kashmir for rejecting separatism and terrorism, and standing by the Constitution and democracy of India.
The Prime Minister detailed other steps taken to address national security and social harmony, noting progress in resolving long-standing conflicts in the Northeast. The PM emphasised how the Bodo Agreement has ended 50 years of conflict in Assam, and the Bru-Reang Agreement allowed thousands of displaced individuals to return home. He underscored the success in diminishing the influence of Naxalism, which he described as“a significant challenge to India’s unity and integrity, saying that due to persistent efforts, Naxalism is now breathing its last.
The Prime Minister highlighted that today’s India has vision, direction and determination. An India which is strong as well as inclusive. Which is sensitive as well as cautious. Which is humble as well as on the path of development. Which understands the importance of both strength and peace. The Prime Minister lauded India’s rapid development amidst global unrest, positioning India as a beacon of peace while maintaining strength. Amidst conflicts in various parts of the world, he said, “India emerges as a global friend.” He also underscored the importance of unity and vigilance, stating that some forces are troubled by India’s progress and aim to harm India’s economic interests and sow divisions. He urged Indians to recognize these divisive elements and safeguard national unity.
As the Prime Minister concluded his address, he quoted Sardar Patel, urging the nation to remain committed to unity. “We must remember that India is a land of diversity. Only by celebrating diversity can unity be strengthened.” ‘‘The next 25 years are very important in terms of unity. Therefore, we should not let this mantra of unity weaken. It is necessary for rapid economic development. It is necessary for social harmony. It is necessary for true social justice, for jobs, for investment,” he said. The Prime Minister called on every citizen to join in strengthening India’s social harmony, economic growth, and commitment to unity.
केवड़िया के एकता नगर में महाराष्ट्र के ऐतिहासिक रायगढ़ किले की छवि भी दिखती है, जो सामाजिक न्याय, देशभक्ति और राष्ट्र प्रथम के संस्कारों की पवित्र भूमि रही है। pic.twitter.com/KucUz2kcLo
पिछले कुछ वर्षों में भारत ने ‘विविधता में एकता’ को जीने के हर प्रयास में सफलता पाई है, जिसके ये बड़े उदाहरण हमारे सामने हैं… pic.twitter.com/aocbf3c1vU
भारत के बढ़ते सामर्थ्य और एकता के भाव से परेशान कुछ लोग देश को तोड़ना और समाज को बांटना चाहते हैं। हमें इनसे बहुत सावधान रहना है। pic.twitter.com/ehXoNXRPyI
Government of India has announced Special Campaign 4.0 from 2nd October to 31st October 2024 with a focus on Swachhata and reducing pendency in the Government, as envisaged by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. The Special Campaign 4.0 places a greater emphasis on field/outstation offices in addition to the Ministries, Departments, and their subordinate offices under the aegis of Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG).
As part of the special campaign 4.0, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) is giving special attention reducing the pendency in number of references from Members of Parliament, Public Grievances and Public Grievance Appeals. Secretary, MSDE addressed all the senior officers and nodal officers of the Ministry to reduce these on a day-to-day basis and further to that randomly consult the individual Grievant if his grievance is specifically addressed, as instructed by the Prime Minister. A workshop with National Archives of India, was also organised to sensitize the officers of Ministry and attached field offices on the necessity of Record Management.
Entire MSDE including all its attached offices and autonomous organisations as one family resolved to reduce the pendency in number of references from Members of Parliament, Public Grievances and Public Grievance Appeals. As a result, till 30thOctober,l 2024, nine references from MPs, three Parliament Assurances, 466 Public Grievances and 23 Public Grievance Appeals have been disposed of. Five Rules have been identified and simplified.
As part of Record Management, 4,813 files have been reviewed and 597 files have bee weeded out. 855 e-files have been reviewed out of which 217 filed have been closed. About 21,087 Square feet of space has been freed due to weeding out of files.
The Special Campaign 4.0 is helping to bring about greater degree of awareness to maintain clean office environment and the need for overall environmental protection. MSDE is committed to achieve the targets identified during the preparatory phase.
Raigad exemplifies the greatness and bravery of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, is synonymous with courage and fearlessness: PM I am glad that this year’s Rashtriya Ekta Diwas programme gave a place of pride to Raigad: PM
Posted On: 31 OCT 2024 10:58AM by PIB Delhi
The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today hailed Raigad as Shivaji Maharaj’s remarkable legacy, strategic genius, and leadership.
Shri Modi said that he is glad that this year’s Rashtriya Ekta Diwas programme gave a pride to Raigad.
The Prime Minister posted on X:
“Raigad exemplifies the greatness and bravery of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. It is synonymous with courage and fearlessness. I am glad that this year’s Rashtriya Ekta Diwas programme gave a place of pride to Raigad.”
Raksha Mantri virtually inaugurates ‘Desh ka Vallabh’ statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel & Major Ralengnao ‘Bob’ Khathing ‘Museum of Valour’ at Tawang; Describes them as a symbol of unity & strength “Disengagement process in certain areas along LAC almost complete based on consensus achieved between India & China; Our aim will be to take the matter beyond disengagement”
Shri Rajnath Singh reiterates PM Modi-led Govt’s commitment towards development of the North-east region
Posted On: 31 OCT 2024 10:57AM by PIB Delhi
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh virtually dedicated to the nation ‘Desh ka Vallabh’ statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and Major Ralengnao ‘Bob’ Khathing ‘Museum of Valour’ at Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh on October 31, 2024. Raksha Mantri carried out the inauguration from 4 Corps Headquarters in Tezpur, Assam. He was supposed to visit Tawang, but could not due to bad weather. The unveiling coincided with the festival of lights ‘Deepawali’ as well as ‘Rashtriya Ekta Diwas’ which is celebrated on 31stOctober every year to commemorate the birth anniversary of first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
Raksha Mantri began his address by referring to the broad consensus achieved by India and China to restore the ground situation in certain areas along the LAC. “India and China have been holding talks at both diplomatic and military levels to resolve the differences in some areas along the LAC. As a result of the talks, a broad consensus was developed on the basis of equal and mutual security. The consensus includes the rights of patrolling and grazing in traditional areas. Based on this consensus, the process of disengagement is almost complete. Our efforts will be to take the matter beyond disengagement; but for that, we will have to wait a little longer,” he said.
Shri Rajnath Singh paid glowing tributes to Sardar Patel, also known as the Iron Man of India, acknowledging his instrumental role in unifying over 560 princely states post-independence, a feat that stands as a testament to his indomitable resolve and commitment to a unified India. “This statue ‘Desh Ka Vallabh’ will inspire people reminding them of the strength in unity and the unwavering spirit required to build a nation as diverse as ours,” he said.
Raksha Mantri also paid homage to Major Bob Khathing, an extraordinary figure who made invaluable contributions to the Northeast region and national security. “Major Khathing not only led the peaceful integration of Tawang into India but also established essential military and security frameworks, including the Sashastra Seema Bal, Nagaland Armed Police, and the Naga Regiment. The ‘Museum of Valour’ now stands as a tribute to his bravery and foresight, inspiring generations to come,” he said.
Shri Rajnath Singh underscored the significance of unity & harmony, and the North-East’s unique role in the nation’s identity. He reiterated Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of ensuring economic & infrastructure development of the entire region. “Holistic development of the nation is possible only when the North East prospers. We will create such a North East which is strong & prosperous not only naturally and culturally but also economically,” he added.
Raksha Mantri highlighted the crucial role of Border Roads Organisation (BRO) in the progress of the region. He made special mention of the Sela Tunnel linking Assam and Tawang, a project which enhances connectivity across Northeast regions. “In the times to come, the Arunachal Frontier Highway project will play a major role in connecting the entire North East region, especially the border areas. This 2,000-km long highway will prove to be an important strategic & economic asset for the region as well as the entire nation,” he added.
Shri Rajnath Singh also commended the Armed Forces’ engagement in the region, from NCC initiatives and local economic support to crucial disaster relief efforts. “Armed Forces not only provide security, but also become a medium for development in that region by cooperating with the people of the border areas. This further strengthens India’s commitment to ensuring development, peace, and security in the Northeast,” he said.
Governor of Arunachal Pradesh Lt Gen KT Parnaik (Retd), Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh Shri Pema Khandu; Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Shri Kiren Rijiju; Chief Minister of Manipur Shri N Biren Singh; Deputy Chief Minister Of Arunachal Pradesh Shri Chowna Mein and the family of Major Bob Khathing were present at the inauguration site. Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi; General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Command Lt Gen RC Tewari; GOC 4 Corps Lt Gen Gambhir Singh and other senior civil & military officials joined the event virtually along with Raksha Mantri.
‘Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak’ awarded to 463 personnel of various States/UTs/CAPFs/CPOs for the year- 2024 ‘Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak’ recognizes excellent work, promote high professional standards and boost the morale of the officials/officers in the fields of Special Operation, Investigation, Intelligence and Forensic Science
Initiated under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and guidance of Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah, ‘Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak’ will boost the morale of all police personnel
‘Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak’ was instituted by Ministry of Home Affairs in February, 2024
Medal will be announced on 31st October every year, i.e., on the occasion of Birth Anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
Posted On: 31 OCT 2024 10:17AM by PIB Delhi
The ‘Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak’ has been awarded to 463 personnel of various States/Union Territories (UTs)/Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs)/Central Police Organisations (CPOs) for the year 2024.
The medal is given to recognize excellent work, promote high professional standards and boost the morale of the concerned official/officer in the following four fields:
(i) Special Operation.
(ii) Investigation.
(iii) Intelligence.
(iv) Forensic Science.
Initiated under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and guidance of Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah, ‘Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak’ will boost the morale of all police personnel
The ‘Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak’ has been instituted vide Ministry of Home Affairs’ Notification dated 1st February, 2024. It is to be conferred on members of the Police Forces, Security Organization, Intelligence Wing/Branch/Special Branch of State/UTs/CPOs/CAPFs/National Security Guard (NSG)/Assam Rifles; and Forensic Science (Central/State/Union Territories) in consideration for excellence in Operations, outstanding service in Investigation, exceptional performance indomitable & daring intelligence service, meritorious work done by Serving Government Scientists in the field of Forensic Science.
The medal will be announced on 31st of October every year, i.e., on the occasion of Birth Anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
Priority question for written answer P-002327/2024 to the Commission Rule 144 Adrián Vázquez Lázara (PPE)
In early October, hurricane Kirk caused major destruction in Galicia, especially in maize farms, which prevented the use of machinery needed for harvesting. There are around 73 000 hectares of maize in Galicia. The access difficulties farms are facing prevent the usual crop rotation, which in turn affects applications for CAP payments In addition, the low coverage of insurance policies should be noted.
With this in mind, I would like to ask the following:
1.What European aid can those affected apply for to compensate for the damage caused by this meteorological phenomenon?
2.Could Spain benefit from the amendments adopted recently following the floods in Poland and other Member States, to mobilise various European funds (ERDF, EAFRD, Cohesion Fund, etc.) in the event of a climate disaster?
European Commission Press release Brussels, 31 Oct 2024 The European Commission has concluded that the increased remuneration by Française des Jeux (‘FDJ’) to France for the modification of exclusive rights to operate offline and online lottery games and offline sports betting through 2019 PACTE law is in line with EU State aid rules.
Question for written answer E-002239/2024 to the Commission Rule 144 Jadwiga Wiśniewska (ECR)
I have noticed with concern that the health of farm animals is deteriorating. In Poland, for example, successive outbreaks of African swine fever are causing huge losses for our farmers, sometimes forcing them to close down their farms entirely.
Meanwhile, our livestock farmers and agricultural producers are bound by more than 400 different pieces of veterinary legislation, which are not always precisely worded, are often inconsistent and are thus interpreted differently in different Member States.
In view of the above:
1.Animal isolation is crucial in preventing and limiting the spread of zoonoses – will our farmers be receiving alternative tools to reduce health risks on their farms, and what will those alternative tools be?
2.Does the Commission envisage any additional ad hoc and long-term financial support for biosecurity measures from funds outside the common agricultural policy?
Question for written answer E-002259/2024 to the Commission Rule 144 Mihai Tudose (S&D)
The Eurostat report of 14 October 2024 shows a serious imbalance between EU imports and exports of green energy products.
The EU imported solar panels to the value of EUR 19.7 billion in 2023, while exporting EUR 0.9 billion worth of that product, with 98 % of the solar panels imported coming from China. At the same time, we purchase – mainly from China, Great Britain and India – almost twice as much liquid biofuel as we export, making this another product in which the EU has a negative trade balance.
On the other hand, sales of wind turbines have recovered strongly over the past two years, with EU exports increasing by 49 % to EUR 2 billion in 2023, while turbines worth EUR 0.3 billion were imported from outside the Union. That is encouraging progress.
As a member of the Committee on International Trade, I would like to know what steps the Commission envisages taking in the very near future to encourage the manufacturing and export of green energy products in the EU?
Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in English
The Swiss Science Council (SSC) is the advisory body to the Federal Council on issues related to education, research and innovation policy. In the Working Programme for the years 2024–2027, the Council outlines its thematic priorities. These include questions on artificial intelligence, universities of applied sciences, climate change and research libraries. In addition, the SSC conducts various evaluations.
Question for written answer E-002233/2024 to the Commission Rule 144 Sebastian Everding (The Left), Tilly Metz (Verts/ALE), Krzysztof Śmiszek (S&D), Cristina Guarda (Verts/ALE), Jonas Sjöstedt (The Left), Lynn Boylan (The Left), Maria Noichl (S&D), Anja Hazekamp (The Left), Tomáš Kubín (PfE), Erik Marquardt (Verts/ALE)
The hedgehog[1] plays a vital role in preserving the biodiversity and balance of green spaces. However, experts warn that its population is expected to decrease by up to 50 % in the span of a decade as a result of the destruction of its natural habitats by human activity.
The hedgehog is under serious threat because of habitat loss and food scarcity. This has caused its reproduction rates to decline and has led to it being added to a range of endangered species lists. In Germany, for instance, the hedgehog, which is also the wild animal of the year 2024, is now on the early warning list of endangered species. Unfortunately, there is no precise estimate of the hedgehog population in Europe.
1.What concrete measures does the Commission plan to take for the preservation and conservation of Erinaceus europaeus?
2.Does the Commission plan to propose a scientific review of the conservation status of the hedgehog population across the EU, and if so, when exactly?
3.The North African hedgehog is listed in Annex IV of the Habitats Directive, yet it remains a popular pet. Are there any measures the Commission believes should be taken regarding this protected species being kept as a pet?
Question for written answer E-002221/2024 to the Commission Rule 144 João Oliveira (The Left)
The Inspectorate-General of Finance of the Portuguese Republic has carried out an audit that points to the participation of Airbus – a European multinational – in an illegal and criminal scheme for financing TAP’s privatisation in 2015.
The same conclusion had already been reached by a Portuguese Parliamentary Committee of Inquiry, whose work was completed a year ago. At that time, the Assembly of the Republic asked the Government to request that the European Union investigate that participation and establish the necessary accountabilities for the difficulties that said participation created for the Portuguese Republic.
In the meantime, the Portuguese Prime Minister has informed the Assembly of the Republic that the Government has not taken ‘any steps’ to implement that resolution of the Assembly of the Republic. This was a regrettable choice, but one that only serves to hold accountable those to made it (the last two Portuguese governments).
But the question was already referred directly to the European Commission (questions E-001889/2023[1] and P-002436/2023[2]), so we are asking again:
1.Has the European Commission already carried out an assessment of the role played by Airbus in the privatisation process of TAP, in 2015, and its accountability for the damage caused to the Portuguese Republic by that privatisation?
2.If so, what are the results of that assessment? If not, why has no assessment been carried out?
Question for written answer E-002227/2024 to the Commission Rule 144 Nicolás González Casares (S&D)
The Autonomous Community of Galicia is the subject of an infringement case for failure to conform to the Habitats Directive with regard to the area and the management of the Natura 2000 Network, as the Galician Government has protected an area equivalent to only 13 % of the territory – compared with the 20 % laid down in the directive – and has large deficits in its management figures, as evidenced by the Commission’s answer to my question E-002754/2022[1], in which the Commission wrote that it ‘considers that the Master Plan established by Galicia for the management of Natura 2000 does not meet the requirements of the Habitats Directive’.
To conform to the revised Renewable Energy Directive, the competent authorities must designate renewables acceleration areas by February 2026 at the latest. In the light of the above:
1.Does the Commission consider it appropriate to set acceleration areas without nature conservation measures in line with EU legislation having been taken?
2.Does the Commission believe that the coverage of the Natura 2000 network should be extended so that it conforms to the Habitats Directive before acceleration areas are set?
Question for written answer E-002098/2024/rev.1 to the Commission Rule 144 Daniel Buda (PPE)
The UK has announced that it is introducing classes into the primary and secondary school curricula in which students will learn to think critically and identify fake news in the press and online media. The Minister for Education, Bridget Phillipson, has stated that the aim is to prepare children to distinguish between real and false information, and also to recognise conspiracy theories and extremist content.
Although the details of how this will be done are unclear, various methods have been suggested. For example, during their English classes, students could analyse newspaper articles, while in IT classes they could learn how to recognise fake news sites. Teachers could also present statistics on disinformation during mathematics classes.
The EU can work with Member States to incorporate digital skills into school curricula. This includes training in critical thinking, assessing information sources and digital security, thereby helping students to better navigate the online world. What can the Commission do to help prepare the younger generations meet these new challenges?
Priority question for written answer P-002324/2024 to the Commission Rule 144 Matjaž Nemec (S&D)
In its activities tackling antisemitism, the Commission says it regards the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) working definition of antisemitism as ‘the benchmark’ and cooperates with the Israeli Government, including in the EU-Israel High Level Seminar on combating racism, xenophobia and antisemitism.
1.In view of a recent study[1] revealing that the Commission had misrepresented the results of a 2018 key survey by the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) with regard to the IHRA definition of antisemitism, can the Commission confirm it will henceforth refrain from such misrepresentations, in line with its declared commitment to evidence-based policymaking, also when addressing the most recent FRA survey, published in July 2024?
2.Recalling an earlier statement by Commission Coordinator on combating antisemitism Katharina von Schnurbein, which denied that the EU is conditioning its funding based on the IHRA definition of antisemitism[2], can the Commission confirm it does not and will not apply any IHRA definition-based funding conditionality when granting and controlling EU funding?
3.How does the Commission address and counter the escalating political instrumentalisation of antisemitism by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and government ministers targeting, among others, the UN Secretary-General and UN human rights bodies, the International Criminal Court and the International Court of Justice?
Submitted: 30.10.2024
[1] European Middle East Project, ‘Does the IHRA working definition of antisemitism reflect the views of most European Jews? An assessment of the evidence from the 2018 survey of the EU Fundamental Rights Agency (FRA)’, July 2024, https://archive.jpr.org.uk/object-4216.
Question for written answer E-002236/2024 to the Commission Rule 144 Christine Anderson (ESN)
According to media reports from various EU Member States, there were significant irregularities in the procurement of protective face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic. In some cases, low-quality masks were purchased at exorbitant prices, leading to legal disputes and strains on public budgets possibly amounting to billions. This raises questions about the level playing field and budgetary discipline in the internal market.
1.What role did the Commission play in the procurement of protective face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic and to what extent were procurement processes in the Member States coordinated or supervised?
2.What is the Commission’s assessment of the financial risks arising from the ongoing legal disputes relating to the procurement of face masks for Member States’ budgets with regard to compliance with EU debt rules?
3.What measures does the Commission intend to take with regard to future cases of procurement during crisis situations in the Member States in order to prevent distortions of competition resulting from improper procurement procedures and lobby influence?
Question for written answer E-002097/2024/rev.1 to the Commission Rule 144 Daniel Buda (PPE)
Romania is facing significantly higher energy prices than western European countries, and this is putting additional pressure on its economy and its population. The situation is a result of a number of factors, such as a year of drought, which affected hydroelectricity production, and other region-specific difficulties.
Given the circumstances, Romania is considering seeking EU financial support from the Council of Ministers, in order to counter the effects of these significant energy price hikes.
1.In view of the European Union’s objectives of ensuring economic and social cohesion between Member States, what steps is the Commission contemplating to support Romania and other countries affected by these imbalances in the energy sector?
2.Is the Commission planning to provide financial support or introduce policies that narrow the gap between energy prices in eastern and western Europe so as to ensure a fair and sustainable transition for all EU regions?
Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in English
Am 30. Oktober 2024 nahm Bundesrat Ignazio Cassis in Kanada an der Konferenz über humanitäre Aspekte für einen gerechten und dauerhaften Frieden in der Ukraine teil. Das Treffen in Montréal schliesst die Reihe der im Juni 2024 anlässlich der Konferenz auf dem Bürgenstock angekündigten Folgekonferenzen ab. Im Rahmen der Konferenz in Montréal führte der Vorsteher des EDA politische Gespräche mit der kanadischen Aussenministerin Mélanie Joly, dem ukrainischen Aussenminister Andrij Sybiha und dem norwegischen Aussenminister Espen Barth Eide.
Janáček Philharmonic is one of the leading symphonic orchestras in Czechia. Named after the famous composer Leoš Janáček, who was born in a village near Ostrava, it has hosted major conductors and composers such as Igor Stravinsky, Sergei Prokofiev, and Paul Hindemith. Today, it continues to bring pride to the people and the region.
When Žemla and local authorities explored new designs for the concert hall, they looked for something that would capture the orchestra’s spirit and significance to the city. They received such a proposal from Steven Holl, a world-class architect renowned for his profound love of music.
“Steven had the idea that the orchestra itself is the instrument, and the case for that is the hall,” he says. “Just as a case safeguards a delicate and sensitive instrument, the building will do the same for the orchestra.”
The new concert hall’s design mimics the organic shapes of a musical instrument case, reflecting Holl’s inspiration from both music and architecture. Holl designed an innovative interior with perforated wooden panels and lighting, creating a space that resonates with musical logic.
Beyond its primary function as a concert hall, the venue will also serve as a versatile theatre space and host a variety of cultural and educational activities. “There will be theatre halls, educational centres, and spaces for social events, ensuring the building is alive all day, not just during concerts,” says Žemla.
CBD COP16 is taking place in Cali, Colombia, 21 October – 1 November 2024. A full programme of events on transformative actions to deliver on the Global Biodiversity Framework is taking place at the EU Pavilion. Find out more about the EU’s position and aims for COP16 in the Council Conclusions.
The Technical Support Instrument (TSI) has helped 27 Member States to implement the Green Deal by designing and implementing reforms on climate change mitigation, tackling green washing and sustainability reporting, climate change adaptation, energy, environment and the circular economy, sustainable mobility, the just transition, green procurement and green budgeting, green taxation – directing public and private financing to sustainable investments.
Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:
DES MOINES, United States of America, October 31, 2024/APO Group/ —
In a powerful opening to the 2024 Norman E. Borlaug International Dialogue, the president of the African Development Bank Group (www.AfDB.org) Dr. Akinwumi Adesina and his counterpart at the World Bank Ajay Banga, stressed the need for more global action against hunger, a goal slipping further away due to the combined effects of conflict, economic challenges and climate change.
The two leaders were guest speakers at the opening plenary on Tuesday 29 October, entitled “Achieving a Hunger-Free World,” at which they reiterated their institutions’ commitments to ending food insecurity in Africa, highlighting innovative partnerships and financial solutions.
“There is nothing more important than feeding the world. Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) play an important role in that,” Adesina declared. He stressed the crucial role of international financial institutions in helping achieve this task.
Interviewed by Roger Thurow, senior fellow for global agriculture at the Chicago Council on Global Affairs, Adesina and Banga discussed the transformative actions from MDBs in meeting Africa’s annual $1.3 trillion development needs.
Giving examples of innovative instruments to stretch balance sheets, Adesina said International Monetary Fund (IMF) Special Drawing Rights or SDRs, if channeled through MDBs, could enable them to become leveraging machines, multiplying resources up to eight times.
“And that’s how you recycle capital to do all the things you need. Think of that,” he said.
Banga praised Adesina’s leadership and expressed confidence in joint initiatives like “Mission 300,” an ambitious project to connect 300 million Africans to electricity by 2030.
“When you want to solve a problem, you work in partnership,” Adesina stated, lauding Banga’s collaborative spirit.
Both leaders highlighted the urgency of engaging Africa’s youth in agriculture. The African Development Bank’s “Enable Youth” program and the World Bank’s focus on youth employment initiatives, reflect a shared commitment to harnessing Africa’s demographic dividend for agricultural transformation and economic prosperity.
“If we don’t put finance behind young people’s ideas, that’s the biggest risk,” Adesina warned.
The 2024 Borlaug Dialogue, hosted by the World Food Prize Foundation, gathers experts worldwide to inspire innovative solutions to global hunger. With this year’s theme, “Seeds of Opportunity, Bridging Generations and Cultivating Diplomacy,” the event champions collaboration, legacy, and hope in the fight for food security.
Adesina also underlined the importance of partnerships such as the G20’s Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty of which the African Development Bank and the World Bank are partnering. The campaign will see SDRs channeled through MDBs to fight hunger. He cited Mission 300, a joint initiative by the World Bank and the African Development Bank to connect 300 million people in Africa to electricity by 2030, as another example of MDB cooperation.
Banga stated his confidence in Adesina’s leadership for initiatives like M300: “We have six years to get it done,” he said.
Scale and ecosystems to address climate change and improve farmers’ livelihoods
Addressing the topic of climate change and farmers’ livelihoods Banga noted that in Africa, only 4% of global climate financing goes to agriculture.
He stressed the need for scalable solutions to support Africa’s small farmers. “The focus must be on scale and ecosystems,” he said, pointing to the World Bank’s efforts to enhance farmers’ access to energy, internet, and credit guarantees, creating a comprehensive support network.
The World Bank is putting the demographic dividend of Africa’s youth population to the fore by making job creation a specific outcome of all its development work, along six specific pillars, Banga said.
Earlier, Mashal Husain, Chief Operating Officer for the World Food Prize Foundation said the theme for this year’s Borlaug dialogue: “Seeds of Opportunity, Bridging generations and cultivating diplomacy,” pointed to a world of potential to achieve the goal of ending hunger worldwide.
“That seed represents hope, innovation and courage to dream. This week at the Borlaug Dialogue we are not just talking about the seeds of opportunity. We are planting them,” Husain said.
Adesina’s engagements at the Borlaug Dialogue include the Africa Agriculture Dialogue, engagements with the presidents of Sierra Leone and Tanzania and addressing Global Youth Institute Students and Youth Program Alumni on Wednesday 30 October. He will also moderate a high-Level panel Discussion on Thursday 31st October entitled: Bold Measures to Feed Africa.
To learn more about the Norman E Borlaug Dialogue, click here (https://apo-opa.co/3YmL8yW). Follow the conversation on X (https://apo-opa.co/3Us9KFi).
Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Tom Nyirenda, Extraordinary Senior Lecture in the Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University
The World Health Organization’s 2024 Global Tuberculosis report reveals a sobering reality. Formidable challenges remain in the fight against the world’s most infectious disease: persistent poverty in high burden countries; increased rates of infection among vulnerable populations; the inability to find and treat all missing cases; and funding shortfalls.
The WHO’s report measures progress in two ways: the number of TB-related deaths, and the number of people who become ill. There is still a long battle ahead to eradicate a disease that results in over 10 million patients among those already infected and claims around 1.5 million lives each year. This even though it is preventable and curable.
The good news is that some countries in Africa have made significant progress in reducing infection rates and TB-related deaths.
Global health specialist Tom Nyirenda assesses some of the report’s key findings and messages.
TB can be defeated because we have good diagnostic tools and effective treatment for the commonest forms of the disease. Global funding, which is critical in fighting TB, is not yet up to the scale that is required to stop the disease. Only 26% of the funding committed by global partners to TB prevention, diagnostic and treatment services has materialised so far.
Good diagnostic tools and treatment aren’t the panacea. Almost 87% of TB cases are from 30 high burden poor countries of the world. Slow or lack of economic progress of affected populations is one of the greatest challenges the world continues to face.
On the positive side, progress has been made in reducing TB related deaths in the Africa region. The continent saw the biggest drop in TB related deaths since 2015 of all six regions – 42%. The European region came next with TB deaths down by 38% in the same period.
When it comes to TB infections the WHO African and European regions have made the most progress: a reduction of 24% in Africa and 27% in Europe.
One of the main reasons for the success in Africa has been progress in treating HIV patients. This is because TB is one of the most common opportunistic infections among patients with HIV. (Opportunistic infections occur more often or are more severe in people with weakened immune systems.)
Before antiretrovirals transformed treatment for HIV patients, the African continent had the highest TB-HIV co-infection rates in the world. High mortality was experienced among co-infected patients.
At one stage HIV prevalence among TB patients was estimated to be as high as 90% in some areas of sub-Saharan Africa.
Treating co-infected patients with antiretrovirals has contributed significantly to the drop in TB-related cases and deaths on the continent.
Some countries have increased TB screening among vulnerable groups such as children and those who live in confined areas, such as prisoners and displaced people.
Mixed bag of infection rates
Successes within the African region vary from country to country.
For example Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo are among eight countries that accounted for about two-thirds of the global number of people estimated to have developed TB in 2023. Nigeria has 4.6% of the global new cases and the DRC has 3.1%.
It’s noteworthy that both countries have high levels of poverty; they are vast, with huge populations; and their health services are limited compared to the scale of disease burdens they face.
Sometimes increases in reported cases are not a bad thing. They can be due to improved case finding or better diagnostic procedures. But vigilance is required to maintain the drive towards achievement of global targets.
Barriers to seeking treatment
Families of TB sufferers often have to bear costs such as for medications, special foods, transport, and a loss of income.
Such expenses sometimes discourage TB sufferers from seeking treatment.
The WHO global report estimates families in many countries in Africa are among those facing “catastrophic total costs” as a result of members becoming ill with TB. This is when direct and indirect costs account for more than 20% of a family’s annual household income. The countries where this is the case include Niger, Ghana, Burkina Faso, Tanzania and South Africa.
A billboard warns locals about the dangers of tuberculosis in Dire Dawa, Ethiopia. Getty Images.
Vaccine race
The only vaccine against TB, the Bacillus Calmette-Guérin vaccine, has been used for more than 100 years. It is largely effective for children under five, but less so in older people. And it can’t be used on patients who have certain medical conditions.
Development of vaccines is a lengthy and costly exercise. Only one-fifth of the finance necessary for research has been forthcoming to date.
The good news is that of all infectious diseases TB is probably the one that has the most vaccine candidates in the pipeline (about 17). There are currently six vaccine candidates for adults in phase III trials. They could be available within the next five years.
Beating the disease will require an effective primary or recurrent TB prevention vaccine or a therapeutic vaccine for those already infected with the TB bacteria but who have not yet developed the disease.
Future threats
Climate change will affect food security and nutrition, essential for recovery from TB, and also diverting TB resources to epidemics and pandemics associated with it.
Human conflict, migration and displacement are other threats that world faces that will hinder TB infection control and treatment.
These dangers strengthen the case for multi-sectoral collaboration to share rare resources and strive for a meaningful impact. The speed at which COVID-19 vaccines were developed in the middle of a pandemic and global lockdowns shows this is possible in better and worse times.
What needs to be done
Without government support the war against TB will never be won. Every country and every community is different. It is therefore essential that locally relevant economic research is conducted in every situation to guide policies that reduce the economic burden of TB on communities. Generated evidence should guide policy and practice. Above all good financing should be mobilised, with governments leading the course.
– TB in Africa: global report shows successes, but Nigeria and DRC remain important hotspots – https://theconversation.com/tb-in-africa-global-report-shows-successes-but-nigeria-and-drc-remain-important-hotspots-242489
Follow Captain Vanessa Von Viràg from Switzerland as she carries out daily activities serving with the United Nations Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP).
Briefing by Caroline Ziadeh, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo, on the situation in Kosovo.
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UN Special Representative for Kosovo Caroline Ziadeh said that although the situation on the ground remains fragile, in her engagements with officials in Belgrade and Pristina, as well as with partners, she sees hope for a constructive dialogue and peaceful relations.
Briefing the Security Council today (30 Oct) about the UN Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK), Ziadeh said, “Advancing and safeguarding human rights is at the very core of our mission in Kosovo. Against the background of recent developments, strengthening measures to further promote equality and non-discrimination are pivotal, in particular in upholding property rights, preserving cultural heritage, and fully observing the language rights of all communities.”
She also said, “A year since the serious security incident in Banjska/Banjskë, I continue to call for timely accountability for perpetrators through thorough, fair, transparent and independent judicial processes, which are essential for fostering stability. Such violence is unacceptable and should not be repeated.”
She continued, “In this regard, we note that the initial hearing on this case was conducted on the 9th of October at the basic court of Pristina against the three defendants who are in custody, out of a total of 45 accused in the indictment, who face a range of charges, including terrorism.”
She noted, “Serbian goods have now resumed crossing into Kosovo. It is imperative that the current bottlenecks will be expeditiously addressed. This recent progress underscores the potential for deeper work toward regional integration via constructive diplomatic compromises.”