Source: United States of America – The White House (video statements)
The White House
Category: AM-NC
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MIL-OSI Europe: AMERICA/USA – US Presidential election: Trump and Harris’ positions on abortion
Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI
Washington (Agenzia Fides) – “Both are against life – the one who throws out migrants and the one who kills children”. “I cannot decide. I am not American and I will not go to vote there. But let it be clear: sending migrants away, denying them the ability to work and refusing them hospitality is a sin, and it is grave.” Abortion, on the other hand, means “killing a human being. Whether you like the word or not, it is murder”. This was Pope Francis’ response to a question about the moral dilemmas posed to American Catholic voters about who to vote for in the upcoming US presidential elections. On abortion and immigration, Donald Trump and Kamala Harris seem to hold opposing positions: the former is against abortion and supports draconian measures against illegal immigrants, the latter is for abortion and a policy of greater openness towards immigrants. But is this really the case? To understand the subject of the current abortion debate in the United States, it is necessary to take a step back. On June 24, 2022, the Federal Supreme Court overturned the 1973 Roe vs. Wade decision, which stated that the U.S. Constitution recognizes the right to abortion even in the absence of health problems of the woman or fetus and in the absence of circumstances other than the woman’s free choice. The 2022 ruling de facto rejected the right to abortion at the federal level and returned the issue to state legislatures. Trump, on the one hand, cites the fact that he appointed three Supreme Court justices who were part of the majority of the court that voted in 2022 to abolish the constitutional right to abortion, and on the other hand, he says he wants to leave the decision on this to individual states. “My view is now that we have abortion where everybody wanted it from a legal standpoint, the states will determine by vote or legislation, or perhaps both, and whatever they decide must be the law of the land”, he said. In the controversy with the Democratic candidate, who accused him during the September 10 TV debate that Trump would “sign a national abortion ban” if re-elected, the former president responded: “That’s a lie. I’m not signing a ban, and there’s no reason to sign a ban, because we’ve gotten what everybody wanted, Democrats, Republicans and everybody else, and every legal scholar wanted it to be brought back into the states.” When asked by moderator Linsey Davis whether he would veto a national ban, he replied: “I don’t have to,” but did not say that he would veto a national abortion ban if it were passed by Congress. But then he stressed, “Everyone knows that I would not support a federal ban on abortion under any circumstances, and I would even veto it because it is up to the states to decide based on the will of their voters.” Trump also wrote this in an all-caps message posted on social media when his vice presidential candidate JD Vance (R-Ohio) was asked about the issue during the vice presidential debate. The former president, meanwhile, also criticized some of the state’s more restrictive abortion laws, particularly Florida’s six-week clause, and said he favors exceptions in cases of rape, incest or when the mother’s life is in danger. Trump called the Florida ban a “terrible thing and a terrible mistake.” In an interview with NBC News in September, he reiterated that six weeks is “too short” and said he would “vote that we need more than six weeks.” Because of these comments, Trump was criticized by the most conservative part of his electorate for supporting a referendum to approve an amendment to Florida’s constitution, scheduled for November. The constitutional amendment proposed by Florida’s reproductive rights advocates does not specify the number of weeks within which an abortion can be performed, but provides that access to abortion in the state is available until the fetus is viable, i.e., approximately 23-25 weeks of pregnancy. Trump quickly backtracked, saying he would vote “no” on the abortion amendment, meaning that if it is rejected in November, Florida’s six-week ban would remain in place. Trump’s wife has since publicly stated that she supports women’s freedom of choice. “Without a doubt, there is no room for compromise when it comes to this essential right that all women possess from birth, individual freedom. What does ‘my body, my choice’ really mean?” she said in a video posted on social media. Democratic candidate Kamala Harris said at a campaign event in Savannah that her fight was “a fight for the future and it is a fight for freedom, like the freedom of a woman to make decisions about her own body and not have her government tell her what to do.” On her campaign website, Harris promises that if elected president, she will “never allow a national abortion ban to become law.” And “when Congress passes a bill to restore reproductive freedom nationwide, she will sign it”. Specifically, she supports the passage by Congress of a federal law to protect abortion rights, to counteract the Supreme Court’s 2022 decision that overturned the historic Roe v. Wade ruling recognizing the constitutional right to abortion. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides, 21/10/2024)
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MIL-OSI Europe: OSCE conference commemorates 25th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s accession to the Aarhus Convention
Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE
Headline: OSCE conference commemorates 25th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s accession to the Aarhus Convention
Participants discuss the role of the Aarhus Centre in promoting the Aarhus Convention during an OSCE-organized conference dedicated to the 25th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s accession to the Aarhus Convention, Ashgabat, 21 October 2024, OSCE (OSCE) Photo details
On 21 October 2024, the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat hosted a conference dedicated to the 25th anniversary since Turkmenistan acceded to the Aarhus Convention, a key UN document on access to environmental information, public participation in decision-making and access to justice in environmental matters.
The conference brought together representatives of the Aarhus Centre in Turkmenistan and public organizations, national environmental experts and governmental officials from relevant ministries and agencies.
“As we celebrate this significant anniversary, I am pleased to highlight that Turkmenistan was the first Central Asian state to ratify the Aarhus Convention and commit to implementing provisions of this unprecedented environmental agreement,” said Olivera Zurovac-Kuzman
, Economic and Environmental Officer at the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat.
The event presented the draft National Report on the Implementation of the Aarhus Convention in Turkmenistan and its provisions and discussed the main areas of Aarhus Centre’s activities.
A representative from the Aarhus Convention Secretariat, UNECE, focused on the role of the Aarhus Convention in promoting the principles of good environmental governance and sustainable development.
Representatives of the Aarhus Centre in Turkmenistan reflected on the role of the Aarhus Centre in promoting the Aarhus Convention and the main areas of their activities emphasizing the importance of their work aimed at promoting sustainable water management. Experiences of organizing environmental campaigns were also shared.
“We highly value our long-standing co-operation with the Aarhus Centre, hosted by the public organization ”Tebigy Kuwwat”, in supporting Turkmenistan in the implementation of the Aarhus Convention and promoting access to information, public participation and access to justice in environmental matters,” added Zurovac-Kuzman. -
MIL-OSI Europe: OSCE Mission to BiH Organised Training on Good and Proactive Criminal Investigations
Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE
Headline: OSCE Mission to BiH Organised Training on Good and Proactive Criminal Investigations
Training on Good and Proactive Criminal Investigations organized in Mostar by the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (OSCE) Photo details
The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (Mission), in cooperation with the Cantonal Prosecutor’s Office of Hercegovina Neretva Canton (HNC), organized a training for the police officials of the HNC Ministry of Interior on “Good and Pro-active Investigations”. The training aimed to enhance the quality of criminal investigations and foster stronger cooperation, coordination and communication between police officials and prosecutors.
The training, which brought together 30 police officials from the three police administrations in HNC, delivered through three core components: a) the role of the police in proactive investigations and evidence collection; b) duties and responsibilities of police investigators in ensuring the legality of evidence; and c) a practical case-study focusing on building knowledge and skills concerning responses to prosecutorial instructions and court orders during investigations. This practical component was designed to enable police officials to engage in hands-on exercises, learning from both exemplary and deficient practices in crime scene investigations.
The Mission is committed to supporting the professional development of law enforcement agencies across the country, with the aim of improving the overall quality of investigations and ensuring that police actions align with relevant domestic and international standards and are delivered in such a way to ensure effective responses to crime in Bosnia and Herzegovina. -
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CIC calls on Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions
Source: Government of India
CIC calls on Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions
100% RTI disposal rate in first 6 months of current financial yearPosted On: 19 OCT 2024 5:25PM by PIB Delhi
Chief Information Commissioner of India Shri Heeralal Samariya called on Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions today.
During the meeting, Shri Samariya informed the Minister that Central Information Commission has achieved 100% disposal rate of RTIs during the first six months of the current financial year. Dr Jitendra Singh lauded the Central Information Commission on this achievement.
The Minister applauded the office of Chief Information Commission for consistently using Artificial Intelligence for study, analysis and pattern of RTIs and also checking credentials of RTI applicants.
Chief Information Commissioner also apprised the Minister of the consistent use of hybrid mode, – physical cum video conferencing, introduced in the office of CIC for hearing and disposal of RTI appeals. The Commissioner informed the Minister that the disposal of RTI applications during the Covid 19 pandemic period was more due to the use of online mode and modern technologies.
He further informed that now the RTI applications can also be filed with the help of mobile App. “New technologies have been introduced, leading to the speedy disposal of pending applications. Awareness camps are also being organised to spread awareness about the RTI Act” the Commissioner submitted.
The Union Minister said that it was during the Modi Government that a 24-hour portal service was introduced for e-filing of the RTI applications at any time of the day or night and from any part of the country or abroad. Similarly during Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s tenure, the office of Central Information Commissioner was shifted to its own exclusive office complex, he added.
Dr Jitendra Singh reiterated that the role of the Central Information Commission is important to live up to PM Modi’s vision of transparency and citizen participation in the functioning of the government.
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MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Shri Dharmendra Pradhan embarks on 7-Day tour to strengthen education ties with Singapore and Australia
Source: Government of India
Shri Dharmendra Pradhan embarks on 7-Day tour to strengthen education ties with Singapore and Australia
Education Minister to meet Singapore’s Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister and senior leadersEducation Minister to meet his Australian Counterpart to foster collaboration and synergy in critical areas of mutual interest in education
Shri Dharmendra Pradhan will address Australian International Education Conference
Posted On: 19 OCT 2024 4:45PM by PIB Delhi
In a significant move to enhance bilateral cooperation in the education sector, Union Minister for Education Shri Dharmendra Pradhan will visit Singapore and Australia from 20 to 26 October 2024. The visit is expected to foster collaboration, participation, and synergy in critical areas of mutual interest in education.
During the two day visit in Singapore, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan will address the members of Indian diaspora on 20th October 2024. The next day, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan will meet the Prime Minister of Singapore, H.E. Lawrence Wong; Deputy Prime Minister, H.E. Gan Kim Yong; Education Minister, H.E. – Chan Chun Sing; and Foreign Minister H.E. Vivian Balakrishnan. Shri Pradhan will visit the National University of Singapore ranked No.1 in Asia. He will also visit a local secondary school to discuss the scope of syllabus integration, keeping AI in focus. He will meet academicians, eminent representatives from alumni of IITs and IIMs and engage in discussions related to the education ecosystem of both countries.
During the 3-day visit to Australia, on 23rd October 2024, the Minister, in Melbourne, will meet Hon. Jason Clare MP, Minister for Education. Shri Pradhan will also deliver the Plenary address at the Australian International Education Conference. The Minister will be visiting the South Melbourne Primary School which is known for integrated approaches to learning.
He will visit ‘Discovery to Device’ at RMIT University which is a unique centre for MedTech prototyping and manufacturing. The visit will explore collaborative approaches to the commercialisation of medical technologies and role of industry-academia linkages in driving innovation..
Shri Pradhan will meet Hon. Jacinta Allan MP, Premiere of Victoria along with Australian Education Minister Hon Jason Clare MP. He will also visit Monash University to observe their Innovation Lab and Centre for Nano-fabrication.During his stay in Melbourne, Shri Pradhan will also interact with senior academics of Indian origin.
To explore opportunities for partnerships in educating early childhood education workforces, Shri Pradhan will visit Auburn Long Day Child Care Centre in Sydney on 24th October 2024. The Minister will interact with the representatives of the Innovative Research Universities (IRU) and will attend the 2nd Australia India Education and Skills Council.
On 25th October 2024, he will visit the Granville South Creative and Performing Arts High School.Shri Pradhan will visit the site of the Macquarie Park Innovation District (MPID). As home to over 180 multinational companies, MPID facilitates the practical application of research across telecommunications, digital industries, medical technology and pharmaceuticals for economic benefit.
Later in the day, Shri Pradhan will interact with Indian research students hosted by the Group of Eight, Australia’s most research intensive universities.
Shri Pradhan will visit the UNSW Energy Institute and the Trailblazer for Recycling and Clean Energy (TraCE) at the Tyree Energy Technologies Building, Kensington. Here, he will observe real-world examples of practical research applications with commercial impact through the UNSW Energy Institute, which brings together world-leading researchers and the energy industry.
He will also visit UTS Moore Park Sports and Exercise Precinct to explore cooperation in sports education and sports research. UTS’s Moore Park Precinct is a state-of-the-art teaching, research and sporting facility.
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MIL-OSI Security: “NATO will defend Allied interests in the Arctic” says Chair of NATO Military Committee
Source: NATO
On 19 October 2024, the Chair of the NATO Military Committee, Admiral Rob Bauer attended the 11th edition of the Arctic Circle Assembly. While in Iceland, he also met with the Chief of Defence, Mr Jonas G. Allansson, former President of Iceland Mr Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of the Arctic Circle Assembly and Michael Sfraga, newly appointed US ambassador-at-large for the Arctic.
In his keynote speech for the Arctic Circle Assembly, Admiral Bauer expressed his concerns about Russia’s continued military build-up in the Arctic and the growing (military) cooperation between China and Russia, also in the Arctic region. “NATO will defend its interests in the Arctic. We have a responsibility to protect all our Allies, including the seven here in this region. And we want to uphold the international rules-based order, which includes freedom of navigation,” Admiral Bauer said. He underscored NATO’s strong posture in the High North based on new defence plans, major exercises and build-up of Joint Force Command Norfolk to ensure NATO’s deterrence and defence for the whole of the North Atlantic. Admiral Bauer also praised closer Nordic Defence Cooperation: “The historic accession of Sweden and Finland makes NATO stronger, also in the High North. And Nordic Allies are investing deeply in their capabilities and equipment”.
Sitting down with the Icelandic Chief of Defence, Mr Jonas Allansson, Admiral Bauer reiterated the key role Iceland plays as a NATO Ally. “Iceland continues to be strategically important because of its location and by operating crucial NATO air defence and surveillance systems. Iceland also hosts Allied Air Policing and key exercises,” Admiral Bauer stated, adding that Iceland is one of 13 Allies involved in the NORTHLINK initiative that was launched during the Defence Ministerial Meeting on 17-18 October 2024. This initiative will help develop a secure, resilient and reliable multinational Arctic satellite communications capability. Admiral Bauer also welcomed Iceland’s long-term support to Ukraine.
Meeting with Mr Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Admiral Bauer praised the Arctic Circle Assembly for being a key venue to address global challenges, including the security implications of climate change. “Reduction in sea ice due to climate change means that new shipping routes come into play in the Arctic, making them economically and militarily significant,” Admiral Bauer said.
In his meeting with the US Ambassador-at-Large for Arctic Affairs, Michael Sfraga, Admiral Bauer discussed the role of the United States as an Artic ally, both on the diplomatic front and also militarily, as Pentagon published an updated Arctic Strategy in July this year.
Read the speech at the Arctic Circle Assembly.
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MIL-OSI Security: Shaken but not Stirred at NMRTU Bangor
Source: United States Navy (Medical)
The announcement came suddenly.
Just as abruptly came the reaction.
Navy Medicine Readiness Training Unit Bangor staff rapidly responded to a [mock] earthquake, Oct. 17, 2024.
The exercise scenario – held in conjunction with Commander Naval Installations Command Citadel Rumble and Operation Dynamo 2024 – provided the opportunity for the branch health clinic to test a handful of objectives which are considered crucial during any actual seismic event.
According to Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Jesse Hamby, radiology technologist assigned to the clinic, the clinic’s major goals to accomplish during the exercise were met.
“Our objectives were to drop, cover and hold; evacuated everyone, have 100 percent accountability; triage all patients appropriately, and communicate with each other throughout the drill,” explained Hamby.
With the clinic located on Naval Base Kitsap Bangor, the medical and dental staff provide direct healthcare to the Sailors and Marines stationed on the sprawling compound, a sizable part of the third largest fleet concentration in the U.S. The base is also nestled – as is the rest of the greater Puget Sound region – in a locale with a number of active fault zones with routine seismic activity. There have been over 70 minor earthquakes over the last several weeks.
“This is the first time we’ve done this in a number of years. But it is something we need to do in case it does happen. Overall, we did really well. Actually, better than expected,” said Senior Chief Hospital Corpsman Randy Fugere, NMRTU Bangor leading chief petty officer, adding that communication effort amongst staff all during the exercise was prompt, as was handling the flow of those injured needing medical care. “Communication, sharing information, is always huge and important during an event like this.”
The 2001 Nisqually earthquake – with an epicenter approximately 55 miles south of NMRTU Bangor parent command, Naval Hospital Bremerton – measured a strong 6.8 magnitude and shook the entire Puget Sound region as the Juan de Fuca Plate shifted deeper into the earth. That upheaval invoked NHB to become the first Navy Medicine military treatment facility to become seismic retrofitted in 2007 to withstand future sizable earthquakes.
Annual exercises such as Citadel Rumble and Operation Dynamo 2024 are held to prepare personnel to effectively respond when another sizable quake does take place, because seismologists have long contended it’s just a matter of if, not when.
NMRTU Bangor is ready.
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MIL-OSI USA: Four new petroleum liquids pipelines have been completed in the United States since 2023
Source: US Energy Information Administration
In-brief analysis
October 21, 2024
Since 2023, pipeline companies have completed four new petroleum liquids pipeline projects in the United States—three crude oil pipeline projects and one hydrocarbon gas liquids (HGL) project—according to our recently updated Liquids Pipeline Projects Database. No new petroleum product pipeline projects were completed during this period. Petroleum product pipelines carry gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, and other refinery products.
The completed projects are as follows:
- South Bend Pipeline is a 150,000-barrel-per-day (b/d) pipeline developed by Bridger Pipeline, LLC, that transports crude oil about 137 miles from Johnsons Corner, North Dakota, to Baker, Montana. It was completed in 2023.
- Keystone Port Neches Link is a 630,000-b/d pipeline developed by Port Neches Link, LLC, a joint venture of TC Energy and Motiva Enterprises, that begins at the Sunoco Logistics terminal in Nederland and ends at Motiva’s terminal in Port Neches (both in Texas). The pipeline is approximately five miles in length and was completed in 2023. The Motiva section is a 30-inch diameter pipe, and the TC Energy section is 36-inch diameter pipe.
- Borger Express Pipeline is a 90,000-b/d pipeline developed by Navigator Energy Service that transports crude oil about 195 miles from Major County, Oklahoma, to Hutchinson County, Texas. It was completed in 2023.
- Seminole Red Pipeline was converted by Enterprise Products Partners from a crude oil pipeline back to an HGL pipeline while it builds Bahia Pipeline, another HGL pipeline project that will also service the Permian Basin. Seminole Red Pipeline was originally an HGL pipeline before it was converted to a 210,000-b/d crude oil pipeline in 2019. The conversion back to HGL was completed in 2024.
Our Liquids Pipeline Projects Database contains information about projects at various stages of construction. Currently, 9 projects have been announced, and 10 projects are under construction. Since we launched the database in 2010, 231 projects have been completed, and 17 projects have been permanently canceled.
Our Liquids Pipeline Projects Database compiles information on more than 270 future, ongoing, and past liquids pipeline projects in the United States. These pipelines carry crude oil, HGL, and petroleum products. Our database contains project types, start dates, capacity, mileage, geographic information, and project status. We track expanded, reversed, converted, and new pipeline projects.
Some projects are connected to each other and may carry the same fuels to their final destinations. As a result, adding together the capacity of all projects would result in overestimating or double-counting some pipeline capacity.
The Liquids Pipeline Projects Database complements our natural gas pipeline projects database. We update our Liquids Pipeline Projects Database based on the best available information from pipeline company websites, trade press reports, and government documents, such as U.S. Department of State permits for border crossings. We update the database twice each year. The data reflect reported plans and do not reflect our assumptions on the likelihood or timing of project completion.
Principal contributor: Jim O’Sullivan
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MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: The 2nd National Lighthouse Festival began with ‘Lighthouse Tourism Conclave 2024’
Source: Government of India
The 2nd National Lighthouse Festival began with ‘Lighthouse Tourism Conclave 2024’
Lighthouse Tourism Conclave 2024 highlighted opportunities for Heritage and PreservationOdisha’s five heritage lighthouses among Key attractions, drawing Over 10 Lakh Visitors in 2024-25
In line with vision to unlock the immense potential of India’s maritime heritage, MoPSW has embarked on a transformative journey to revitalize our historic lighthouses Shri Shantanu Thakur, MoS, MoPSW
These majestic structures, which have long guided mariners, are now evolving into centres of tourism, culture, and learning: Shri Shantanu Thakur, MoS, MoPSW
Posted On: 19 OCT 2024 4:39PM by PIB Delhi
On the day one of 2nd National Lighthouse Festival , Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MoPSW) hosted the Lighthouse Tourism Conclave 2024 today in Puri, with over 100 participants, including government officials, tourism experts, and conservationists, in attendance. The event aimed to explore the vast potential of lighthouse tourism and strategies for preserving these maritime structures, blending tourism development with heritage conservation.
Hon’ble Shri @Shantanu_bjp, MoS, MoPSW, along with T.K. Ramachandran, IAS, Secretary, MoPSW, commenced the celebrations with lighting of the lamp at this first-of-its-kind conclave dedicated to lighthouse tourism. This landmark event is part of the 2nd Indian Lighthouse Tourism. pic.twitter.com/7PX4qCOWbC
— Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (@shipmin_india) October 19, 2024
The conclave was graced by dignitaries, including Shri Sambit Patra, Hon’ble MP from Puri; Shri Suresh Gopi, Hon’ble Minister of State for Petroleum, Natural Gas & Tourism; and Smt. Pravati Parida, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Odisha. Following the traditional lighting of the ceremonial lamp, the Hon’ble Minister of State for Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Shri Shantanu Thakur, delivered the keynote address, where he emphasized the importance of developing lighthouse tourism as a means to boost local economies and preserve India’s rich maritime heritage.
”In line with our vision to unlock the immense potential of India’s maritime heritage, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways has embarked on a transformative journey to revitalize our historic lighthouses. These majestic structures, which have long guided mariners, are now evolving into centres of tourism, culture, and learning. With the development of 75 iconic lighthouses across the nation, we are not only preserving history but also creating vibrant spaces for recreation and community engagement”.
During the conclave on Lighthouse tourism Shri @Shantanu_bjp, MoS, MoPSW highlighted the role lighthouses played in maritime navigation before the advent of GPS tracking systems. He also praised Hon’ble PM Shri @narendramodi for his commitment to preserve these iconic structures. pic.twitter.com/Kv4frIesxm
— Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (@shipmin_india) October 19, 2024
He warmly invited all visitors to explore these landmarks and experience the unique blend of heritage and modernity they offer.
A detailed presentation by the Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships (DGL) showcased the current status and future prospects of lighthouse tourism in India, highlighting various initiatives underway. With an investment of ₹60 crore, 75 iconic lighthouses across 9 coastal states and 1 union territory have been developed under the visionary leadership of the Hon’ble Prime Minister. Each lighthouse has become a beacon of both heritage and recreation, with modern amenities such as museums, amphitheaters, children’s parks, and more. In Odisha, five lighthouses—Gopalpur, Puri, Chandrabhaga, Paradip, and False Point—have been developed as part of this initiative to promote lighthouse tourism.
In the fiscal year 2023-24 alone, the 75 dedicated lighthouses attracted an impressive 16 lakh visitors. As of September 2024, the current fiscal year 2024-25 has already welcomed more than 10 lakh visitors. These developments have also resulted in job creation, with 150 direct and 500 indirect employment opportunities emerging in nearby hotels, restaurants, tour operators, transportation services, and local shops and artisans.
The presentation was followed by two engaging panel sessions. The first session, moderated by Gaurav Nagar, focused on “Lighthouse Tourism and Heritage.” Speakers, including Kapil Mohan (AIS Retd.), Debasis Mishra, and renowned photographer Dinesh Khanna, discussed the cultural and economic significance of lighthouses and the untapped potential in leveraging them as tourist destinations. The second session, also moderated by Gaurav Nagar, concentrated on “Preservation and Conservation of Lighthouses.” Experts such as Raja Parija, Capt. Devabrat Mishra, and Sangeeta Thakur deliberated on sustainable preservation techniques, balancing heritage conservation with the growing demand for tourism.
This interactive dialogue encouraged collaboration among key industry players to strengthen lighthouse tourism in India.
Through this conclave, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways aims to raise awareness about the unique blend of history and tourism that lighthouses represent, and how their preservation is essential for future generations. The event sets the stage for upcoming initiatives and collaboration in the lighthouse tourism sector.
Note: Later in the evening, the Lighthouse Tourism Festival at Talabania Ground, Puri, will witness a grand cultural celebration. The festivities will begin with the invocation dance, Ganesh Vandana, followed by a captivating medley of traditional Assamese performances, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Assam. To conclude the evening, renowned singer Papon will enthrall the audience with a special celebrity performance, adding a melodious touch to the celebration of India’s maritime heritage and lighthouse tourism. The event promises to be a blend of tradition, art, and entertainment, bringing people together in a vibrant cultural showcase.
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MIL-OSI USA: Agriculture Contributes $4 Billion to CT Economy, Report Shows
Source: US State of Connecticut
A new report highlights the economic contributions of Connecticut’s agricultural sector, including $4 billion to the state economy and providing 31,000 jobs.
“The numbers are significant and it’s important to recognize [agriculture’s] proper placement in the state economy,” says Rigoberto Lopez, professor of agricultural and resource economics.
The report was a collaborative effort between the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources (CAHNR), the Connecticut Department of Agriculture, Farm Credit East, and the Connecticut Center for Economic Analysis (CCEA). Authors include Lopez; Tessa Getchis, aquaculture extension specialist for Connecticut Sea Grant and UConn Extension; Danielle Duquette ‘24 (CAHNR); Christopher Laughton, director of knowledge exchange at Farm Credit East; Peter Gunter, senior research fellow at CCEA; and Fred Carstensen, director of CCEA and UConn professor of finance.
“Even in a relatively small, fairly urban state, agriculture contributes approximately $4 billion to the economy, and supports 31,000 jobs, on and off the farm,” Laughton says. “In addition, agriculture provides significant ecosystem services and preserves the state’s working landscape – contributions that can’t be readily quantified. No matter how you measure it – agriculture matters to Connecticut.”
The report demonstrates that, despite challenges posed by climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic, the agriculture sector continues to grow.
“This economic impact report serves as a vital benchmark, revealing the profound significance of agriculture – not just as a source of sustenance, but as a cornerstone of economic vitality, community resilience, and sustainable growth,” says Agriculture Commissioner Bryan P. Hurlburt. “Building upon strong partnerships and collaboration, this data serve as a compass, guiding our programs and services at the agency to create a runway for future success through innovative solutions and the diversification of agriculture.”
The fastest-growing industries in Connecticut are its greenhouse operations and value-added products, like dairy and meat processing.
Connecticut does not compete with large agricultural states, like those in the Midwest, in terms of big crops like wheat or corn. Instead, most of the state’s agriculture focuses on what are considered “specialty crops” by the FDA like vegetables, fruit, and melons, as well as ornamental crops.
The state also has a robust aquatic farming industry which contributed $33.5 million and 500 jobs in 2022 according to the report.
“The industry produces a wide spectrum of products including oysters, clams, fish, kelp, aquatic plants, and corals, among others,” Getchis says. “Connecticut has a long history of shellfish production dating back centuries and is in fact today one of the leading producers on the U.S. East Coast.”
While the report highlights the economic benefits of the agricultural sector for the state, Lopez emphasizes it does not capture all the benefits the industry provides to the state including social factors. For example, farms in the state provide residents with access to local foods and events like farmer’s markets provide spaces for communities to gather.
“Residents can play an important role in preserving and supporting agriculture in Connecticut,” Lopez says.
At a recent press event to unveil the report, UConn officials underscored the value of the impact report and UConn’s role in helping Connecticut’s agricultural sectors to grow.
“Agriculture is part of the past, present, and future of Connecticut and its flagship university, UConn,” says CAHNR Dean Indrajeet Chaubey. “We’re committed to fueling the state’s economic engine, supporting agricultural industries, and preparing future leaders through specialized academic programs.”
This work relates to CAHNR’s Strategic Vision area focused on Ensuring a Vibrant and Sustainable Agricultural Industry and Food Supply.
Follow UConn CAHNR on social media
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MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Sh. Nitin Gadkari inaugurates two-day conference “Latest Emerging Trends and Technologies in Road and Bridge Construction” in Bhopal
Source: Government of India
Union Minister Sh. Nitin Gadkari inaugurates two-day conference “Latest Emerging Trends and Technologies in Road and Bridge Construction” in Bhopal
Sh. Gadkari says Infrastructure as Key to National DevelopmentPosted On: 19 OCT 2024 4:32PM by PIB Delhi
Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Shri Nitin Gadkari, highlighted the pivotal role of infrastructure in national development, emphasizing that an improved transport system opens new doors for economic growth and creates employment opportunities. The Minister was addressing the inaugural session of a two-day conference on “Latest Emerging Trends and Technologies in Road and Bridge Construction,” organized by the Madhya Pradesh Public Works Department and the Indian Road Congress, held in Bhopal.
Shri Gadkari reiterated that infrastructure development remains a top priority for Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, as this sector not only drives progress but also lays the blueprint for India’s future. He emphasized key objectives such as ensuring uncompromising quality, reducing road accidents, protecting the environment, and resolving on-ground challenges, which he believes can only be achieved through collective efforts across all levels.
Addressing the importance of rural road development, Shri Gadkari advocated for the adoption of a “waste to wealth” policy, which promotes the use of waste materials in road construction, yielding both financial and environmental benefits.
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister, Dr. Mohan Yadav, in his address, noted that the conference will bring new momentum to the state’s infrastructure development, significantly contributing to the success of various construction projects.
The two-day conference features multiple technical sessions where experts from across the country will deliberate on innovative technologies, construction materials, and the challenges in the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) agreement process. An exhibition showcasing the latest machinery and technologies used in road and bridge construction has also been organized as part of the event.
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MIL-OSI USA: Tackling Food Insecurity: Cultural Food Guide
Source: US State of Connecticut
The Cultural Food Guide, developed by the UConn Rudd Center for Food Policy and Health, offers food banks and food pantries a tool fight food insecurity by ensuring a respectful, productive, and positive experience for vulnerable populations in their communities. (Video by UConn)
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MIL-OSI Europe: Einstein Telescope in border region step closer
Source: Government of the Netherlands
Major steps have been taken to build the Einstein Telescope in the border region of Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany. This was revealed at the 4th ministerial summit on the project. The Flemish government is already reserving €200 million for the project. In addition, Belgium and the Netherlands support the steps being taken in Germany to definitively earmark funds for the construction of the Einstein Telescope. Finally, it was announced at the summit that the 1rst results of the drilling campaign give the preliminary conclusion that the subsoil in the border area of Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany is sufficiently stable and offers opportunities to build the telescope.
Newcomers
That news caused great optimism among the responsible ministers from North Rhine-Westphalia, Belgium and the Netherlands at the Kerkrade conference on the underground telescope.
Following elections and government formation in the Netherlands and Belgium, a number of new ministers in the Netherlands and Belgium are responsible for the Einstein Telescope project. From Wallonia it is Minister Pierre-Yves Jeholet, in Flanders it is Prime Minister Matthias Diependaele and from the Netherlands Minister Eppo Bruins, who also hosted.
Commitment in the 3 countries
Ahead of the summit, it was announced that the new Flemish cabinet is already reserving €200 million for the Einstein Telescope. This is good news. Together with the financial reservation in the Netherlands and the extra boost given by Minister Bruins on Prinsjesdag, a total of more than a billion euros is available for the Einstein Telescope in both countries.
Germany is also taking steps for the Einstein Telescope. There, an application is under way to get the Einstein Telescope on Germany’s priority list for large scientific infrastructure. This is a necessary condition for a financial contribution. Dutch and Belgian ministers have indicated their support for this proposal.Drilling campaign: hard rock favourable
A key condition for building the Einstein Telescope is that the soil is suitable for it. To determine that, drilling to an average depth of 300 metres was carried out at 11 locations in the border region of Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany. Not all analyses have been completed yet, but the first preliminary conclusions look good. It was found that the subsurface consists of harder rock layers than initially assumed. This is favourable for building an underground research infrastructure. The analysed data from the drillings have been independently verified by the geological service of TNO (Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research). TNO concurs with the research team’s conclusion based on these initial findings that there are no factors that would make the project unfeasible.
This drilling campaign and the data collected do not yet say anything about exactly where the 3 vertices for the underground telescope will be. Further geological research is needed for that. In addition, seismic surveys must show that the area is sufficiently noise-free to allow the telescope to measure gravity waves optimally. Furthermore, civil engineering studies must show how the construction of the underground tunnels and vertices is possible. In addition, environmental impact studies will help determine the most suitable location.Einstein Telescope of great value
The Einstein Telescope will be of great value to science, the economy and society. Studies show that every euro invested will pay for itself twice over, and thousands of additional jobs are expected to be created in the border area of the 3 countries. Both for scientists and professionals in the fields of construction, maintenance and hospitality.
The decision on where to build the Einstein Telescope will be made in 2026. The border region of Germany, the Netherlands and Belgium is in the race together, working on the best possible bid book. The Netherlands has €58 million for preparation and a reservation of €870 million for construction.Quotes from national and regional ministers
Minister Eppo Bruins (OCW) – the Netherlands: ‘Together, we are really another step closer to the Einstein Telescope. The Flemish investment is very good news, and Germany is also taking steps. These agreements and first results of the ground borings mean that the ground under our plan is getting firmer, both literally and figuratively. And that’s good news. Together, we can really give a major boost to science, society and the economy in our countries with the Einstein Telescope.’
State Secretary Thomas Dermine, Belgium: ‘This latest ministerial meeting shows that the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany continue to make significant daily efforts to ensure that the candidacy of the EMR region for the Einstein Telescope is as solid and coherent as possible. The Belgian federal government, whose administration (BELSPO) coordinates the work of the Belgian Task Force, closely monitors the next steps to be taken to ensure that this high-value scientific project is actually realized in the EMR region. The realization of a European project of this caliber will enhance the EMR cross-border region and demonstrate that Europe is at the top of scientific technology in the field of gravitational wave detection.’
Nathanael Liminski, Minister of Federal, European, International Affairs and Media of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia and Head of the State Chancellery: ‘We are constantly fostering cross-border cooperation between North Rhine-Westphalia, the Netherlands and Belgium for the benefit of the people in the region. Of the many areas and projects in which we work together, the Einstein Telescope stands out in particular. Joint cutting-edge research projects send out the signal that we, as Europe, have the confidence to be among the best in the world. The Einstein Telescope has enormous potential, both scientifically and economically.’
Gonça Türkeli-Dehnert, State Secretary, Ministry of Culture and Research of the State of North-Rhine Westphalia: ‘The research landscape in North Rhine-Westphalia, with its many excellent universities and research institutions, is unique in Europe. I am sure that North Rhine-Westphalia and its partners in the Netherlands and Belgium will be the ideal home for the Einstein Telescope.’
Minister Pierre-Yves Jeholet, Wallonia: ‘This project is of great importance for scientific research and European scientific collaboration, but also for the economy of our regions, which is why the new Walloon Government fully supports this bid through the Economy and Industry Department. Most of this project will be carried out under Walloon soil, and the spin-offs will be significant for our regions. In the coming weeks, the Walloon Government will be expanding its project team to maximise the chances of this joint bid by Germany, the Netherlands, Flanders and Wallonia.’
Flemish Prime Minister Matthias Diependaele: ‘The Einstein Telescope is a unique ‘Big Science’ project. It links fundamental science, technological innovation, attraction of STEM fields and international appeal. A strong commitment from all governments involved will enable us to actually bring this unique scientific infrastructure to the Meuse-Rhine Euroregion. This is why the new Flemish government has already entered an initial reservation of 200 million euros in its budget.’
Deputy Stephan Satijn (Economy, Finance and Business, Public affairs) Province of Limburg (NL): ‘During the ministerial meeting, it became clear that we all want the same thing: to bring the Einstein Telescope to this region. The new ministers are also keeping the Einstein Telescope high on the agenda. With good agreements, we have taken another step forward.’
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MIL-OSI Africa: Afreximbank Acts as Joint Lead Manager on Ecobank Transnational Incorporated’s USD 400mn Senior Unsecured Note Issuance
Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:
CAIRO, Egypt, October 21, 2024/APO Group/ —
African Export-Import Bank (“Afreximbank”) (www.Afreximbank.com) is pleased to announce that it has successfully acted as Joint Lead Manager and Bookrunner on a USD 400 million 10.125% Rule 144a/RegS senior unsecured note issuance by Ecobank Transnational Incorporated (“ETI”) due in October 2029.
The proceeds of the note will fund general corporate purposes of the issuer, including refinancing of a USD350 million senior bridge-to-bond loan facility that was jointly coordinated by Afreximbank in March 2024.
The note issuance achieved peak orderbook oversubscription of 2.1x, backed by more than 70 high-quality and diverse investors comprising development finance institutions, asset managers, commercial banks and insurance companies from Africa, the UK, USA, Europe and the Middle East.
Professor Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afreximbank, commenting on the transaction, said: “We are pleased to have supported Ecobank Transnational Incorporated (“ETI”) in placing the first public Eurobond issuance by any Sub-Saharan African financial institution since 2021, following our bridge financing support earlier in the year. This transaction underscores Afreximbank’s capacity and readiness to structure innovative market access solutions for our pan-African banking partners.”
Afreximbank’s Advisory and Capital Markets (ACMA) department acted as Joint Lead Manager and Bookrunner on the issuance, working alongside international and African partners.
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MIL-OSI China: Chinese researchers develop ‘lunar bricks’
Source: China State Council Information Office 2
A visitor looks at a lunar soil sample displayed at a Space Day of China science exhibition in Hefei, east China’s Anhui Province, April 24, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua]
Chinese researchers have developed bricks from a material that has a similar composition to lunar soil, with the hope that they can be used to build a lunar base in the future.
According to a recent video clip provided to Xinhua by the Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST), a team of researchers led by Ding Lieyun used a lunar soil simulant to make “lunar bricks” that are more than three times stronger than standard red bricks or concrete bricks.
The team also developed another construction option using additive manufacturing technology. The researchers invented a 3D-printing robot to print houses using lunar soil.
According to Zhou Cheng at HUST, the team used five different simulated lunar soil compositions and three different sintering processes, which can provide more accurate scientific data for the selection of materials and process optimization for future lunar base construction.
The composition of lunar soil varies in different locations on the moon, Zhou said, noting that there is one composition that simulates the lunar soil at the landing site of Chang’e-5, which is mainly basalt. Some other compositions simulate the soil found at other locations, soil that is mainly anorthosite.
He explained that the bricks need to undergo performance testing to determine if their mechanical performance will degrade in the lunar environment and whether they can withstand the high frequency of lunar quakes.
The moon has a vacuum environment with significant cosmic radiation, and temperatures exceed 180 degrees Celsius during the lunar day, dropping to minus 190 degrees Celsius at night. The team has to determine how well the bricks can insulate and if they can withstand the radiation, Zhou said.
According to China Central Television, the lunar bricks will be sent to China’s space station aboard the Tianzhou-8 cargo spacecraft to verify their mechanical and thermal performance, as well as their ability to withstand cosmic radiation. The first lunar brick is expected to return to Earth by the end of 2025.
China unveiled a national mid-term to long-term development program for space science on Tuesday, outlining a roadmap for the development of space science in China through 2050. The international lunar research station, which was initiated by China, will be constructed during the program’s second phase from 2028 to 2035. -
MIL-OSI Economics: Directions under Section 35A read with Section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949 (As Applicable to Co-operative Societies) – The Suri Friends’ Union Co-operative Bank Ltd., Suri, West Bengal – Extension of period
Source: Reserve Bank of India
The Reserve Bank of India issued Directions under Section 35A read with Section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949 to The Suri Friends’ Union Co-operative Bank Ltd., Suri, West Bengal vide Directive No. CO.DOS.SED.No.S2574/12-07-005/2022-23 dated July 21, 2022 for a period of six months up to close of business on January 22, 2023 as modified from time to time, which were last extended up to close of business on October 22, 2024 vide Directive DOR.MON.D-33/12.29.046/2024-25 dated July 18, 2024. The Reserve Bank of India is satisfied that in the public interest, it is necessary to further extend the period of operation of the Directive beyond close of business on October 22, 2024.
2. Accordingly, the Reserve Bank of India, in exercise of powers vested in it under sub-section (1) of Section 35A read with Section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949, hereby extends the Directions for a further period of three months from the close of business on October 22, 2024 to the close of business on January 22, 2025, subject to review.
3. All other terms and conditions of the Directive under reference shall remain unchanged.
(Puneet Pancholy)
Chief General ManagerPress Release: 2024-2025/1344
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MIL-OSI China: Cold front to bring strong winds, rain
Source: China State Council Information Office 2
A cold front will hit most parts of China from Monday to Wednesday, causing a further decline in temperatures, the National Meteorological Center warned.
The center said that the new cold front moving eastward from Northeast China will cause strong wind, rain and snow, with temperatures expected to plummet by 4 to 8 C — and more than 10 C in some areas.
On Sunday, the center issued a blue alert for strong winds in North and Northeast China as well as coastal areas of Fujian province from 8 am on Sunday to 8 am on Monday. Also, strong winds are expected in parts of the Yellow Sea, the East China Sea, the Taiwan Strait, the South China Sea and the Bashi Channel.
China has a four-tier, color-coded weather warning system for strong winds, with red representing the most severe warning, followed by orange, yellow and blue.
As the new cold front moves eastward from Sunday to Tuesday, many areas in central and eastern China will be hit by rain. Snow is expected to fall in parts of Beijing and in the provinces of Hebei and Shanxi, and blizzards are forecast to hit some parts of the Inner Mongolia autonomous region and Heilongjiang province, the center said.
It added that the cold front was predicted to bring rain and snow to central and eastern China from Sunday to Monday.
From 8 am on Saturday to 6 am on Sunday, heavy and torrential rain hit Sichuan, Guizhou, Zhejiang, Guangdong and Fujian provinces. Particularly battered were Mianyang and Guangyuan in Sichuan, and Guangzhou in Guangdong.
Many areas in North China and northern regions along the Yangtze River saw temperatures drop between 6 C and 10 C at 5 am on Sunday, compared with the same time the previous day, the center said. -
MIL-OSI China: China’s PCT intl patent applications top world for 5 consecutive years
Source: China State Council Information Office 2
China’s international patent applications via the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) ranks first in the world for five consecutive years, said the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) chief during the ongoing 2024 International Association for the Protection of Intellectual Property (AIPPI) World Congress.
During the congress that opened Saturday in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, WIPO Director General Daren Tang said it is a milestone that the congress is being held in China for the first time.
Tang said in a video that in the mid-1990s, when China joined the PCT of the WIPO, the annual number of international patent applications via the PCT framework was only about 100, and by 2023 the number reached about 70,000.
According to AIPPI President Shoichi Okuyama, in recent years, the number of intellectual property applications in China has grown rapidly, and China has become the country with the most international patent applications, meaning that China’s sci-tech innovation capacity has made great progress.
China has been working hard to formulate and improve relevant laws on intellectual property protection and has maintained active communication and exchanges with other international parties, he added.
China became the first country in the world to have more than 4 million valid domestic invention patents. The number of applications for international patents via the PCT, design patents in the Hague System and international trademarks under the Madrid System rank among the top in the world.
Held from Saturday to next Tuesday, the congress attracted about 2,300 industry insiders from 92 countries and regions for in-depth discussions on cutting-edge and hot issues in the field of intellectual property. -
MIL-OSI China: US, Canadian warships disrupt stability of Taiwan Strait
Source: China State Council Information Office 2
The actions of the United States and Canada disrupted the peace and stability of the Taiwan Strait, a military spokesperson said Monday in response to U.S. and Canadian warships’ sailing through the strait on Sunday.
The Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army remains on high alert at all times, and resolutely safeguards national sovereignty and security, as well as regional peace and stability, said Li Xi, a spokesperson with the command.
On Sunday, the U.S. destroyer Higgins and the Canadian frigate Vancouver made a transit through the strait, the spokesperson said.
Naval and air forces organized by the command closely followed and monitored the vessels’ passage through the strait during the entire process, and addressed the situation in accordance with laws and regulations, Li said. -
MIL-OSI China: Former vice president of China Development Bank sentenced to 12 years for bribery
Source: China State Council Information Office 2
Wang Yongsheng, former vice president of China Development Bank, has been sentenced to 12 years in prison for accepting bribes, according to a verdict handed down by a court in Jilin city, northeast China’s Jilin province, on Monday.
Wang was also fined 2 million yuan (about $281,762), and his illegal gains will be confiscated and turned over to the state treasury, according to the verdict.
An investigation into Wang’s case revealed that between 2010 and 2019, he took undue advantage of his positions to secure benefits for others in getting loans and financing, purchasing bonds and personnel arrangements, among others. In return, he illegally accepted money and valuables worth over 23.51 million yuan.
The court also noted that Wang had been cooperative in the investigation and in returning the illegal gains. These factors were taken into consideration when determining the sentence. -
MIL-OSI China: Luong Cuong elected as Vietnam’s president
Source: China State Council Information Office
Luong Cuong, member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee and permanent member of the CPV Central Committee Secretariat, was elected as Vietnam’s president on Monday, local media reported.
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MIL-OSI Economics: How Honeywell is using Google AI to prepare for the industrial future
Source: Google
Industrial companies play a crucial role in our daily lives, whether it’s the airplanes we fly, the medical devices we use or the sensors that manage the air conditioning in our offices. But there’s a looming talent shortage and skills gap in the industrial sector, which could soon create massive challenges for businesses and economies worldwide.
With an entire generation of workers retiring and — in many cases — no one coming behind them, industrial companies are under tremendous pressure. They are asking how they can maintain the same level of expertise with their current talent, and searching for the best tools to do the work and transition the knowledge between generations. This is essential to keep industrial systems (and the world at large) running every day.
Enter Honeywell. The longtime industrial partner and technology leader for the industrial sector is collaborating with Google Cloud to further help solve the skills and labor shortages. With Vertex AI, Honeywell is helping industrial assets work harder, people work smarter and processes run more efficiently. As Suresh Venkatarayalu, Honeywell’s CTO and President of Honeywell Connected Enterprise, puts it, “We’re moving from automation to autonomy. Our goal is to equip companies with AI agents that assist workers in real time — on factory floors and in the field. With AI running both in the cloud and at the edge, we’re making sure that systems work smarter and more efficiently.”
Industrial AI agents that act like workplace ‘coaches’
For years, Honeywell has been collecting industrial data through Honeywell Forge, a digital platform that draws on designs, manuals, and real-world performance of Honeywell’s global install base (such as how products have behaved in different environments, where issues have occurred, and how to resolve them). Now, Honeywell is using Vertex AI and Google’s large language models (LLMs) to build AI agents, like workplace “coaches,” that make this trove of data more accessible and easier to understand.
These AI-powered tools will also help automate tasks for engineers, warehouse workers, and technicians for Honeywell and its customers. For example, AI agents can troubleshoot equipment, suggest design improvements, and offer preventative maintenance insights, such as, “How did this unit perform last night?” or “Why is my system making this sound?”
Edge AI tools to help devices monitor and process data
Honeywell’s devices are used worldwide in a range of settings — from data centers to hospitals to refineries to warehouses. Internet access can often be challenging, especially in remote locations. To solve this, Honeywell is exploring how to use Gemini Nano to provide AI services at the edge of the network — right on devices like scanners, sensors and controllers — so they can operate autonomously, even when they aren’t connected to the internet.
Gemini’s multimodal capabilities enable understanding of text, code, images, videos and audio, allowing Honeywell devices to process various data types, from scanning to voice-based guided workflow.
With Google AI-powered agents, Honeywell is helping bridge the skills gap and ensure the future of the industrial sector. The first solutions built with Google Cloud AI will be available to Honeywell’s customers in 2025. You can find out more information and see future updates on our website.
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MIL-OSI China: Lebanon condemns Israel’s repeated attacks on UNIFIL positions
Source: China State Council Information Office
The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) vehicles are on patrol in Marjayoun, Lebanon, Aug. 28, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
The Lebanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants on Monday condemned Israel’s repeated attacks on personnel and positions of the United Nations Interim Force In Lebanon (UNIFIL), calling on the international community to take a firm stance to support peacekeeping forces.
In a statement released Monday, the ministry said “these attacks and actions do not merely represent targeting international forces, but also constitute a flagrant violation of international law and international humanitarian law, and may amount to a war crime.”
The ministry urged the international community to safeguard UNIFIL’s operations, ensuring their security is neither compromised nor threatened. It called for the condemnation of Israel and demanded an immediate halt to its hostile actions against the peacekeeping forces.
In recent days, Israeli forces have repeatedly targeted UNIFIL positions in southern Lebanon, resulting in injuries to peacekeepers and drawing international criticism.
On Sunday, a bulldozer of the Israel Defense Forces demolished an observation tower and perimeter fence at a UNIFIL post in the southern Lebanese town of Marwahin.
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MIL-OSI China: Chinese VP meets Indonesian new Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka
Source: China State Council Information Office
Visiting Chinese Vice President Han Zheng met with Indonesia’s newly inaugurated Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka in Jakarta on Monday.
Han congratulated Gibran on his inauguration and emphasized that China and Indonesia are good neighbors and good partners, adding that the cooperation between the two sides is highly complementary and mutually beneficial, which has brought tangible benefits to both nations.
China is willing to strengthen the synergy of development strategies of the two countries in light of the policy priorities of the new Indonesian government, and continue to deepen the practical cooperation in various fields with the high-quality Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) cooperation taking the lead, ensuring mutual benefit and win-win results, and jointly advancing the building of a China-Indonesia community with a shared future, Han said.
For his part, Gibran said that the new Indonesian government is willing to work with China to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state.
He said that Indonesia will continue to consolidate the good momentum in developing bilateral relations, and unswervingly deepen bilateral practical cooperation to better benefit the two countries and their peoples.
At the invitation of the Indonesian government, Han, as the special envoy of Chinese President Xi Jinping, attended the inauguration of Indonesia’s new President Prabowo Subianto in Jakarta on Sunday, and was on a visit to the Southeast Asian country from Saturday to Monday.
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MIL-OSI China: US defense secretary visits Ukraine
Source: China State Council Information Office
A file photo of U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin. [Photo/Xinhua]
U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin arrived in Kiev on Monday, the Interfax-Ukraine news agency reported.
During his visit, Austin is scheduled to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Defense Minister Rustem Umerov.
The two parties will discuss the U.S. military support for Ukraine next year.
The trip marks Austin’s fourth visit to Ukraine as the secretary of defense.
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MIL-OSI China: China launches its first digital resource center for Tibetan medicine, astrology
Source: China State Council Information Office 3
Southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region launched the country’s first digital resource center for Tibetan medicine and astrology on Friday.
Established by the Hospital of Traditional Tibetan Medicine in the regional capital Lhasa, the center features 10 databases, including Tibetan medicine materials and the literature on Tibetan medicine and astrology. It also houses high-resolution scanned copies of rare Tibetan medical and astrology texts dating back to the 8th Century.
The digitization efforts began in 2006, with over 40 researchers working to collect and preserve valuable literature not only from Xizang but also from provincial-level regions such as Qinghai, Gansu, Yunnan, Sichuan, Inner Mongolia and Liaoning. The team also traveled internationally, securing documents from collections in Mongolia, the United States and France.
“It is a critical step forward in advancing academic collaboration and scientific research in Tibetan medicine and astrology. We aim to create an open, accessible platform offering high-quality data and services to the global academic community,” said Tsering, director of the hospital.
Traditional Tibetan medicine emphasizes that seasonal changes affect the circulation of the body’s organs. As a result, practitioners pay close attention to variations in celestial bodies.
Under Tibetan tradition, astronomical calculations and astrology are conducted at hospitals. Each year, the almanac is generated based on calculations made by scholars of the hospitals.
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MIL-OSI China: 2024 WSTDF to open in Beijing
Source: China State Council Information Office 3
A press briefing on the 2024 World Science and Technology Development Forum is held in Beijing on Oct. 18. [Photo courtesy of the China Association for Science and Technology]
The 2024 World Science and Technology Development Forum (WSTDF), hosted by the China Association for Science and Technology (CAST), will commence in Beijing on Oct. 22, according to a press briefing held on Friday.
Guided by the implementation of China’s three major global initiatives, the forum will center on the theme “Science and Technology for the Future” and focus on in-depth discussions of six topics. It aims to harness international expertise to drive high-quality development, foster cross-cultural scientific exchanges, and tackle global challenges through innovation and technological solutions.
The main activities of the 2024 WSTDF will take place in Beijing from Oct. 22-24, with the closing ceremony set for Oct. 30. During the event, in addition to the opening ceremony on Oct. 22, six major thematic sessions and three roundtable dialogues will be held, complemented by several cultural exchange activities. The six thematic sessions will explore the following key areas: “AI Governance Innovation: Building an International Trust Foundation for Cultivating the Ecology of Science and Technology Governance (Intelligence)”; “Interdisciplinary Science-Based Solutions Towards Sustainable Development (Interdisciplinary)”; “Open Science Infrastructures: Building a Collaborative Platform for the Sciences Decade (Infrastructures)”; “Cross-Industry Resource Collaboration and Integration to Provide Innovative Application Scenarios for Enhancing the Intelligent Manufacturing Industry (Innovation)”; “Harmonious Coexistence of Nature and Humanity: Environment and Health (Interaction)”; and “Science and Technology for Risk-Informed Sustainable Development (Integration).” The three roundtable dialogues will focus on the following themes: “Encouraging women’s participation in science and technology”; “Science: Openness, Cooperation and Mobility”; and “Seminar on Effectively Advancing the Sustainable Development Goals.”
In addition, three key international exchange events will enrich the forum, namely the 2024 China-ASEAN Engineers Forum in Beijing on Oct. 16; the opening ceremony of the 2024 WLA Forum & The Award Ceremony of the 2024 WLA Prize in Shanghai on Oct. 25; and the 11th China-Russia Engineering and Technology Forum in Heilongjiang on Oct. 28-29.
The 2024 WSTDF is expected to attract hundreds of high-profile participants, including leaders from relevant countries, global award winners, heads of the United Nations as well as international science and technology organizations, as well as renowned scientists, entrepreneurs and educators from home and abroad. Among the attendees will be over 10 Nobel laureates and other major award winners, more than 40 academicians, over 30 business representatives, and nearly 50 delegates from international organizations.
Featuring a diverse array of events, including thematic sessions, open forums and closed-door meetings, the forum will emphasize fostering interdisciplinary technological cooperation and integration. Through proposals, reports and declarations, it aims to drive meaningful progress in science and technology.
In line with its commitment to simplicity and practicality, the forum will embrace a green, low-carbon and sustainable approach. This includes utilizing paperless communication to boost efficiency, leveraging digital technology to streamline event services, and using renewable energy vehicles for guest transportation. Additionally, the forum will limit the number of participants, avoid unnecessary formalities and minimize decorations to foster a focused and efficient environment.
First launched and hosted by CAST in 2019, the WSTDF has been held five times. Amidst the complex and evolving global landscape, the forum has played a vital role in fostering non-governmental scientific and technological exchange, broadening avenues for international collaboration, and establishing an open and trustworthy network of cooperation. This year, the forum will once again offer a crucial platform for nations to exchange ideas, deepen partnerships and advance scientific innovation and development on a global scale, contributing to a community with a shared future for mankind.
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MIL-OSI China: Intl conference marks Confucius’ 2575th birth anniversary
Source: China State Council Information Office 3
The International Conference to Commemorate the 2575th Anniversary of Confucius’ Birth, which is also the 7th Congress of the International Confucian Association (ICA), opened in Beijing on Saturday.
Wang Huning, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, addressed the opening ceremony.
Wang said efforts will be made to promote the creative transformation and innovative development of China’s fine traditional culture and strengthen exchanges and mutual learning among countries, ethnic groups and cultures around the world.
This will not only further enrich the Chinese civilization but also contribute to a more vibrant and diverse global civilization, he added.
Wang called for carrying forward and promoting Confucianism and all outstanding traditional cultures, thereby making new contributions to the development of a human community with a shared future.
The opening ceremony was presided over by ICA President Sun Chunlan.
Former Japanese Prime Minister and Council Chair of the ICA Yasuo Fukuda, former Italian Prime Minister Massimo D’Alema, and former French Prime Minister Jean-Pierre Raffarin, either in person or through other means, delivered speeches. They emphasized the importance of Confucianism in addressing crises and resolving conflicts.
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MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Severn Valley communities invited to learn about plans for area
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Communities along the Severn Valley are invited to find out more about plans to manage water and enhance communities at a series of drop-in events.
Flooding in the Severn Valley.
Residents and business owners along the upper Severn Valley are invited to a series of drop-in sessions being held later this year where they can find out more about plans to manage water and enhance communities in the area.
The Severn Valley Water Management Scheme (SVWMS) is an initiative led by a partnership of the Environment Agency, Natural Resources Wales, Powys County Council and Shropshire Council which aims to enhance water management and create resilient environments across the Upper Severn catchment.
The Partnership will be at the drop-in sessions below to discuss how it will be developing plans to make the Severn a more vibrant and resilient river catchment, and members of the communities are invited to the drop-in session to find out more.
As well as considering future options for the upper Severn catchment, the SVWMS is also exploring the different funding approaches that would be needed to take forward future implementation in what is a challenging funding environment.
The drop-in sessions will be held on the following dates:
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7 November – Newtown Library, Park Lane, Newtown, SY16 1EJ
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26 November – Llanidloes – Hanging Gardens Project, Bethel St, Llanidloes SY18 6BS
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10 December – Meifod – Meifod Cobra Rugby Club, Meifod, SY22 6HF
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13 January – Oswestry – Oswestry Memorial Hall, Smithfield Street, Oswestry, SY11 2EG
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29 January – Shrewsbury – Shropshire Wildlife Trust, 193 Abbey Foregate, Shrewsbury SY2 6AH
These sessions, which coincide with briefings for local parish and community councils in Powys and Shropshire, are designed to provide an opportunity for residents to learn more about the project, ask questions, and share their views.
People can also keep up to date with progress of the scheme and all the latest news and events by viewing the new SVWMS website, which seeks feedback from those with an interest in the scheme.
The project is investigating a combination of sustainable land use management, in conjunction with current land uses, up-scaled nature-based solutions, and sensitive engineering methods to improve flood risk resilience and water management in the catchment area.
If delivered, the SVWMS will bring numerous benefits to communities and businesses across the Severn catchment in England and Wales:
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Improved Flood Risk Management: By implementing a combination of measures, the project will help slow the flow of water upstream, reducing the risk of flooding in downstream areas.
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Enhanced Biodiversity: The project will contribute to halting biodiversity decline by creating and improving habitats such as wetlands, reed beds, and woodlands. This will support a diverse range of plant and animal species.
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Climate Resilience: The regenerative approach of the SVWMS will positively contribute to addressing the climate crisis by enhancing the natural environment’s ability to absorb and store carbon.
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Social Value: The project will engage local communities and involve them in the decision-making process, fostering a sense of ownership and stewardship over the natural environment.
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Economic Benefits: By improving water management and reducing flood risks, the project can protect local businesses and infrastructure, contributing to the overall economic resilience of the region.
David McKnight, Environment Agency Area Flood and Coastal Risk manager for the West Midlands said:
“Delivering the Severn Valley Water Management Scheme is a long-term solution to sustainable water management and has the potential to better protect thousands of homes and businesses from flood risk across the upper Severn catchment in England and Wales.
“We are looking forward to sharing progress as it is made and for people to contribute and engage with us as the project advances. We want to hear from all areas of the Severn community as we embark on the strategy that the catchment needs to be able to adapt to our changing climate and continue to thrive.
“The new SVWMS website will be a reliable and informative resource for anyone wanting to engage with partners and we will update the venue details of our community drop-in sessions and event summaries there too.”
Gavin Bown, Natural Resources Wales, Head of Operations for Mid Wales said:
“This is an ambitious but important project as we face a climate and nature emergency. We are seeing adverse weather events, such as flooding and periods of drought, occurring more frequently than we have experienced in recent decades.
“The Severn Valley Water Management Scheme (SVWMS) is looking at new and innovative ways to supplement our flood risk management activities and help further address these issues through using natural flood management to reduce the risk of flood or drought by working with natural systems.
NRW and Welsh Government are committed to the sustainable management of our natural resources. The SVWMS is a project which could provide us with additional longer-term solutions to sustainably manage water in the Severn catchment. We welcome the opportunity for communities to help inform the scheme.”
Councillor James Gibson-Watt, at Powys County Council, added:
“The Severn Valley Water Management Scheme is a significant opportunity to address climate impacts being experienced within our communities in Powys. We’re excited to be a partner in this initiative and would encourage participation in the upcoming community events to learn more about the project and the potential opportunities it could bring.”
Councillor Ian Nellins, Deputy Leader and Cabinet member for Climate Change, Environment and Transport at Shropshire Council, added:
“The Severn Valley Water Management Scheme represents a significant step forward in our efforts to protect communities and enhance our natural environment. This project not only addresses the immediate flood risks but also supports biodiversity and our fight against climate change.
“We encourage everyone to participate in the upcoming sessions to learn more about the positive impacts this scheme will bring.”
Updates to this page
Published 21 October 2024 -