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  • MIL-OSI Economics: German economy: rising to the challenges | Speech delivered at the invitation of the German association of family businesses

    Source: Bundesbank

    Check against delivery.

    1 Introduction

    Ladies and gentlemen,

    I am delighted to be able to speak before you today, as representatives of Hessian family businesses. Family businesses play a significant role for the German economy and German society.

    In cooperation with the audit firm EY, the University of St. Gallen in Switzerland compiles the Global Family Business Index.[1] It lists the 500 largest family businesses in the world. And, last year, 78 businesses on this list – nearly 16% – were located in Germany. This puts Germany in second place behind the United States, which, however, has nearly five times the GDP of Germany. According to EY data, these 78 businesses generated the equivalent of just over €1 trillion in revenues in 2023.[2] Germany’s share of total revenues is therefore just over 10%. And, let it be noted, these are merely the largest and highest-revenue family enterprises.

    However, when we talk about family businesses, it is naturally not just numbers that come to mind. It’s about much more than that, not least about tradition. What I often hear in this context is that “family businesses think in terms of generations, not quarterly reports”. For me, staying power is a good and important quality to have in order to comprehensively rise to challenges and overcome them sustainably. And we are currently facing our share of challenges; of that there is no doubt. I am referring to macroeconomic challenges, which also matter to family businesses.

    Once a year, the Society for the German Language (Gesellschaft für die deutsche Sprache) chooses several terms as “Words of the Year”. Krisenmodus – “crisis mode” – took first place last year.[3] The term Krisenmodus will probably ring a bell if you look back across the past few years: the COVID–19 pandemic, disintegrating supply chains, high energy prices. This has also left its mark on economic growth, which, this year, will remain weak as well.

    In my speech, I want to discuss in depth the factors that are still continuing to gnaw away at growth. These factors can be either temporary or also permanent in nature. My focus will be on the permanent factors, as we have to address these structural factors in order to make long-term progress. I will subsequently discuss which economic policy measures can specifically help overcome the current weak growth. However, let me first put the current period of economic weakness into context. How serious is the situation really?

    2 Are Germany’s days as an industrial superpower coming to an end?

    In the first half of 2024, like last year, Germany ranked among the laggards in terms of growth in the euro area. German GDP more or less stagnated in the first six months of the year, whereas the euro area average picked up markedly. Germany does not come off favourably in a global comparison, either. The advanced economies’ collective GDP rose by 0.5% in the spring, and of these, the United States even saw a 0.7% increase.

    Third-quarter economic figures for Germany have likewise remained weak. All the while, the media seem to be trying to outdo each other with horror stories about the German economy. “Germany’s days as an industrial superpower are coming to an end” was, for instance, the title of a Bloomberg article in February on the current economic situation in Germany.[4] We read further on in that story that the “underpinnings of Germany’s industrial machine have fallen like dominoes”.

    Just a cursory look back over the history of our economy shows us this: there is nothing inherently new about such headlines and debates. Germany weathered a pronounced slump around the turn of the millennium. Bloomberg Businessweek titled the cover page of its February 2003 issue “The decline of Germany”.[5] And, at the end of 2004, German author Gabor Steingart published a book titled Deutschland – der Abstieg eines Superstars (Germany – The decline of a superstar).[6] Is that painful crisis threatening to repeat itself? Are we in decline?

    Without wanting to get ahead of myself: we are undoubtedly in a midst of a difficult transformation process. But it’s a process we have the power to shape. And if we shape it right, then my clear response is: No, in my opinion Germany is not in decline! How is today’s situation in Germany different from that at the turn of the millennium? Let’s take a look at the numbers.

    At that time, the unemployment rate as calculated by the International Labour Organization (ILO) stood at over 9% on average; it is now 3.3%, and thus also well below the euro area average of 6.5%. Back then, the most pressing labour market problem was unemployment; now, it is the shortage of skilled workers.

    Moreover, German firms’ profitability and capital base are much better now than they were 25 years ago. As a case in point, the average capital ratio was 23% then, whereas in the 2020 to 2022 period it averaged 30%. The profit margin went up from 3.4% at the time to 4.5% in the 2020 to 2022 period. These data are subject to a major time lag, which is why we do not yet have any numbers for 2023.

    However, what are the reasons for the current feeble growth dynamics? The energy crisis had an outsized impact on Germany, an exporting country where manufacturing has a special status. As, before the outbreak of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, dependency on inexpensive Russian energy deliveries was high – too high. Moreover, the fallout from the high inflation weighed on the economy. Many consumers kept their purse strings tight. In addition, the restrictive monetary policy is dampening economic activity. And last but not least, industry continues to be impacted by weak foreign demand, particularly because our euro area trading partners’ imports rose less strongly than world trade. What we know for sure is that some of these factors are only temporary. We therefore assume that Germany’s economy will be able to slowly regain some momentum.

    3 Structural challenges

    Some factors, however, have a longer-term effect. We are facing extensive structural challenges which can likewise dampen growth. To wit, energy costs are set to remain higher than before Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine for quite a while to come. The price of natural gas fell from some €240 per kilowatt hour in August 2022 to €30 in early 2024, before then bouncing back up to around €38 in August of this year, still well above the average price of €13 in the pre-crisis year of 2019.

    But the desired transition to a carbon-free energy supply will be costly as well, at least over a relatively long transition period. Plus there are further challenges such as demographic change, the reduction of unilateral dependence on imports and fragmentation of international trade.

    The transition to a climate-neutral economy, above all, will require massive investment. On this point, a study commissioned by the KfW Group estimated the volume of investment needed to reach Germany’s net-zero targets by mid-century. The result: around €5 trillion. [7] A McKinsey study even puts the figure higher still, at €6 trillion.[8] And just like when you retrofit an old building to improve its energy efficiency, that number includes investment that will be made in any event. But the estimated incremental investment is considerable, too. The KfW study puts this at around €72 billion per year, or just under 2% of German GDP.

    And even though the comprehensive digitalisation process that needs to take place will offer huge opportunities, it, too, will require investment, not to mention training or reconceptualising of processes and business lines. But how is investment faring in Germany at the moment? Let’s take a look at the statistics.

    They show that investment in buildings, machinery and equipment, and other assets in Germany has not grown over the past few years. And declining investment was a key factor behind the slight contraction in economic output in the second quarter. But not just that: in a recent analysis the audit firm EY found that the number of foreign investment projects in Germany has dropped for the past six years in a row.[9] All things considered, despite the aforementioned challenges and the need for investment that they entail, there is currently no indication of an investment boom.

    But what are the reasons for this weak investment propensity? We have investigated this question through our business survey, the Bundesbank Online Panel – Firms. In it, around 7,400 German firms were asked in the third quarter of 2023 about their motives for investment. We published the results in the May edition of our Monthly Report.[10]

    The poor macroeconomic setting was evidently the key reason for declining investment. This was closely followed by high energy and wage costs, a shortage of skilled workers, uncertainty about regulation, and high taxes and public levies. Low public funding, inefficient public administration and poor digital infrastructure played a lesser role. These findings may be a year old, but there is much to suggest that they remain valid.

    4 The tasks of economic policy

    This brings us to the following question: what can economic policy do to remove barriers to investment, or at least mitigate them? One thing it certainly cannot do is directly influence the challenging global setting. For certain other barriers, however, it is very much possible and preferable to tackle them through economic policy. I would like to address three such areas: energy and climate policy, bureaucratic hurdles and the labour market.

    4.1 Energy and climate policy

    The first area primarily concerns planning certainty and reliability in energy and climate policy. The terms planning certainty and reliability were not plucked out of thin air, as shown by the Economic Policy Uncertainty Index. Developed by the economists Scott Baker, Nicholas Bloom and Steven Davis, this index is based on the analysis of pertinent newspaper articles.[11] According to the index, economic policy uncertainty in Germany has risen much more strongly over the past few years than the average for Europe.[12] Deciding to invest in green technologies is mostly tied up with irreversible costs. So where there is uncertainty about future policy, firms understandably hesitate before making such decisions.

    Now, there is no doubt about the basic direction we’re heading in: we have to become carbon neutral if we care even just a little for the welfare of subsequent generations. But when it comes to the details, there is indeed uncertainty. How will the costs of fossil fuels develop? How will the costs of environmentally friendly energy develop and will there be a reliable supply? What will government regulation, taxation, and support look like?

    To reduce these kinds of uncertainties about the energy transition, it is vital that we have a transparent, purposeful and consistent overall framework. This framework includes having sufficient capacity to import and store climate-neutral energy, and back-up power plants for the event that a dunkelflaute – a period with no wind or sunlight – coincides with a period of high energy needs. And, of course, an efficient energy grid. It will therefore be increasingly important, too, to expand power lines connecting Germany from north to south, but also connecting us to our neighbours in Europe.

    The Bundesbank believes that the key instrument to achieve climate objectives should be a price on carbon emissions. This is because carbon pricing ensures that savings and investment are made where it is possible to do so with the lowest costs. However, the crucial thing is to apply carbon pricing as broadly, uniformly and predictably as possible.

    Ambitious carbon pricing not only creates incentives for the use of renewable energy, but also for greater energy efficiency. Our April Monthly Report showed how important advancements in energy efficiency are to not missing climate targets.[13] Increases in energy efficiency reduce aggregate energy intensity and thereby boost aggregate production. They thus counteract the activity-dampening stimuli likely to emanate from a higher carbon price.

    So the production losses or gains that would be associated with achieving climate goals depend not least on energy-saving technological progress. Besides carbon pricing, subsidies for research and development are one conceivable instrument to increase energy efficiency. However, subsidies should be used in a measured and purposeful manner.

    I’m not just concerned about the burden on government finances, which we naturally have to keep an eye on as well. When government interventions become too complex and too extensive, they can significantly distort market incentives. It is possible, for example, that firms keep putting off the necessary investment in the hopes of receiving future subsidies. Some subsidies still in place in the energy and transportation sectors actually run counter to the climate goals. To a certain extent, they therefore act in the same way as a negative carbon price.[14] And last but not least, excessive government intervention ultimately leads to bureaucratic hurdles.

    4.2 Bureaucratic hurdles

    That brings me to the second area where economic policy can improve the investment climate: the burden of bureaucracy. We should make a distinction between two different aspects here. First, there is the extent of requirements placed on firms. For example, there has recently been intense debate about the Supply Chain Act and questions surrounding data protection. In this respect, politicians should make sure they don’t throw the baby out with the bathwater. Even if the objectives are legitimate, the ability to implement measures has to be borne in mind.

    Second, the speed of bureaucracy is important. In Germany, congestion occurs not just on the motorways but also in approval processes. It can sometimes take years for a wind turbine to go into operation, say. When it comes to the pace and efficiency of bureaucracy, especially, we should consider digitalisation as a huge opportunity. Digital technologies can simplify and streamline administrative processes. Incidentally, that is very much in the interest of the administration seeing as it, too, is affected by the shortage of skilled workers. It would appear somewhat logical to bundle more processes when it comes to the digitalisation of administration.

    That means the targeted transferral of responsibilities to central units, which develop harmonised approaches in a cost-effective way. This would open the door to achieving economies of scale, if the relevant costs per process are reduced thanks to a larger area of application, say. What I’m thinking about here is the digitalisation of the tax administration, for instance. It could likely leverage efficiency reserves if certain tasks were delegated to a single unit. A modern form of federalism could also help us to leverage efficiency reserves, specifically when those responsible actually learn from the best practices of others.

    And I’m speaking on this not just as an economist, but also as the president of a large public authority. Dismantling bureaucracy and driving digitalisation often require enormous effort and persistence. But they also present huge opportunities. There’s a reason why the Society for the German Language listed “AI boom” as another “Word of the Year” in 2023, ranking it number eight.

    4.3 Labour market

    The third area where economic policy can play an important role is the labour market. You, as operators of businesses, have been complaining of a shortage of skilled workers for many years now. Quite apart from the current bout of economic weakness, the problem has been increasingly exacerbated by demographic change. And it will become even greater in the future.

    The number of vacancies per unemployed person is often used as an indicator of tightness in the labour market. Up until 2014, there were around three vacancies for every 10 unemployed persons.[15] At the moment, there are roughly six jobs available for every ten unemployed persons. And the number of vacancies has also climbed to an all-time high since the end of the pandemic and is barely coming down. There is a shortage of skilled workers, and a shortage of labour.

    There is a host of conceivable measures to reduce this shortage: open up better employment opportunities for women and older people, make a targeted play for skilled workers from abroad, strengthen vocational and further training, and do a better job of getting the long-term unemployed and immigrants into work.

    Equally, we shouldn’t lose sight of the groups that so far haven’t participated in the labour market – known as the “hidden reserve”. According to the Federal Statistical Office, Germany’s hidden reserve recently came to almost 3.2 million people.[16] Close to 60% of them have a mid to high-level qualification. Looking at the hidden reserve, there are significant differences between the genders. For example, many women state that they cannot work because they care for children or family members. We should make better use of this untapped potential labour force. Expanded care facilities for children or dependants requiring care are an important way to help more people enter the labour market.

    I am certain that many of you have already taken steps at your businesses to make it easier to reconcile work and family life: you operate kindergartens or have spaces reserved at other childcare facilities, offer flexible working time models or the option of working from home – the list of possibilities is long.

    The number of older persons in employment could be increased as well, for example if the statutory retirement age were linked to life expectancy after 2030. This would allow the ratio of retirement to working years to be more or less stabilised. Without this link, the ratio would carry on growing as life expectancy continues to rise. Also, in the short term, it might be worth considering limiting the financial incentives to take early retirement.

    After all, in the interests of preserving a good employment and investment climate, it is important to see to it that the tax burden on labour and capital remains reasonable. Germany, for instance, has a high corporate tax burden in comparison to other countries.[17]

    The Federal Government has the three economic policy areas I have just spoken about on its radar. This can be seen in this year’s growth initiative from 17 July. The bundle of 49 measures is intended – amongst other things – to increase incentives to work, including making it more attractive for older people to remain in work, accelerate the reduction of bureaucracy and secure the further expansion of renewable energy generation. The growth initiative is an important step in the right direction if Germany wants to rise to today’s challenges. Much depends on its implementation, however. And there is still much to be done.

    As an economist myself I must of course not forget what the term “budget constraints” implies: it is not easy to deal with all these challenges when the public purse is light. This being as it is, a critical evaluation of economic policy priorities is almost certainly unavoidable, and that evaluation will remain on the agenda even if the debt brake were to be reformed. The Bundesbank would tolerate a reform if it would continue to guarantee sound government finances. And we have proposed some stability-oriented reforms.

    4.4 More financing via the capital markets union

    I have gone over what politics and politicians can do to improve the investment climate in Germany. But whether or not an investment will pay off over the long term is not the only important factor. Any investment project must also be funded.

    That brings me to the European perspective. Because, all too often, businesses come up against internal European borders in their search for funding. An integrated capital market across the whole of Europe could give European businesses access to more funding for important private investments. But to forge that integrated pan-European capital market, we must make swift progress on both the banking and capital markets unions.

    To demonstrate my point with figures: securitisation markets in the EU saw a volume of around €800 billion in 2020. In the United States, this volume was at around US$3.2 trillion, excluding government-guaranteed products.[18] So that’s a different magnitude altogether, even though the United States and the EU have comparably large economies when measured by purchasing power parity.[19] The European securitisation market fell apart following the financial crisis and has never fully recovered since. The securitisation volume in the United States, on the other hand, has already exceeded pre-crisis levels, with the caveat that American market structures are not perfectly comparable with European ones.

    You may be thinking that securitisation has a bad reputation. And you would be right. After the 2008 financial crisis it was the poster child for “bad financial market innovations” and mainly brought to mind the sale of potentially non-performing loans to unsuspecting investors. As the head of the Bundesbank’s financial crisis management team at the time, I had an unmatched position from which to examine the dynamics of the crisis in detail.

    The financial crisis did indeed lay bare the weaknesses in the securitisation process, which can particularly come to bear in highly complex securitisation transactions. These related to deficits surrounding transparency, risk management and valuation methods. Properly structured and well regulated, though, securitisation vehicles can definitely offer added value to our economy. Securitisation markets complement other sources of long-term financing in the real economy. They give enterprises the opportunity to broaden their funding.

    This particularly applies to small and medium-sized enterprises, because securitisation gives them indirect access to capital market investors. Moreover, securitisation can relieve the pressure on bank balance sheets and open up additional scope for lending to the private sector. Well-regulated and structured securitisation markets could improve the allocation of resources in an economy and ensure a better distribution of risk.[20] This could reduce funding costs and increase economic growth.

    Support for the securitisation market is thus an important element of EU plans for a capital markets union. But there are others. The creation of integrated financial supervisory structures is planned. National insolvency rules, accounting and securities law are to be harmonised. The goal is to create a level playing field for all financial market participants operating at the EU level. And so long as this goal remains abstract, pretty much nobody has a problem with it. As soon as concrete decisions and negotiations enter the picture, however, unity often dissipates. Harmonising national rules is impossible without compromise, after all.

    Happily, more and more European policymakers are coming around to the view that we urgently need a common capital market. There’s been some movement on that front in the last few months. I think, for example, that we have made good progress towards developing a European securitisation market. We need to break down the barriers separating European capital markets one by one!

    5 Conclusion

    Ladies and gentlemen,

    As far as the structural challenges are concerned, we need to set the necessary changes in motion and make them fit for purpose. I am certain we can achieve that. The underpinnings of Germany’s industrial machine are still intact, and Germany’s position as an industrial and investment location is better than its present reputation implies. After recording sluggish growth at the turn of the millennium, Germany ranked as an economic powerhouse in Europe for more than decade.[21] Perhaps that should inspire us to invest shrewdly and sufficiently in our future.

    Economic policymaking can lay a solid foundation for that investment, but it is not all-powerful. It all comes down to enterprises and their employees in the end. Academic studies show that family businesses have greater resilience when in crisis mode than other enterprises.[22] I therefore firmly believe that all of you, as operators of family-owned businesses, continue to play an important role in ensuring the German economy rises to the challenges it faces today. And thus in ensuring that Germany remains ready for what the future holds

    Footnotes:

    1. EY and University of St. Gallen Global Family Business Index.
    2. EY, How the largest family enterprises are outstripping global economic growth, 16 January 2023.
    3. Society for the German Language, GfdS wählt »Krisenmodus« zum Wort des Jahres 2023, press release of 8 December 2023.
    4. Eckl-Dorna et al., Germany’s Days as an Industrial Superpower Are Coming to an End, Bloomberg.com, 10 February 2024.
    5. Ewing, J., The decline of Germany, Bloomberg Businessweek, 16 February 2003.
    6. Steingart, G. (2004), Deutschland – der Abstieg eines Superstars, Munich.
    7. Brand, S., D. Römer and M. Schwarz, Investing EUR 5 trillion to reach climate neutrality – a surmountable challenge, KfW Research No 350
    8. McKinsey & Company (2021), Net-zero Germany: Chances and challenges on the path to climate neutrality by 2045
    9. EY, Ausländische Investitionen in Deutschland sinken im sechsten Jahr in Folge – niedrigster Stand seit 2013, press release of 2 May 2024.
    10. Deutsche Bundesbank, Domestic investment barriers faced by German enterprises, Monthly Report, May 2024.
    11. Baker, S. R., N. Bloom and S. J. Davis (2016), Measuring Economic Policy Uncertainty, The Quarterly Journal of Economics, Vol. 131(4), pp. 1539‑1636.
    12. Economic Policy Uncertainty Index
    13. Deutsche Bundesbank, Energy efficiency improvements: implications for carbon emissions and economic output in Germany, Monthly Report, April 2024.
    14. Plötz et al. (2024), Climate-damaging subsidies correspond to negative CO2 prices, Kopernikus-Projekt Ariadne, Potsdam.
    15. IAB, IAB–Monitor Arbeitskräftebedarf 1/2024: Die Zahl der offenen Stellen ist im Vergleich zum Vorjahresquartal um rund ein Zehntel gesunken, 25 June 2024.
    16. Federal Statistical Office, Ungenutztes Arbeitskräftepotenzial 2023: Knapp 3,2 Millionen Menschen in „Stiller Reserve“, press release No 192 of 16 May 2024.
    17. See Leibniz Centre for European Economic Research (ZEW), Mannheim Tax Index – Effective Tax Burdens in Country Comparison .
    18. See EBA (2022), Joint Committee advice on the review of the securitisation prudential framework (Banking), p. 24. For comparison purposes, the total volume of the US securitisation market (US$13,131 billion) was adjusted for agency ABSs (75%), while the total volume of the EU securitisation market (€3,058 billion) was adjusted for mortgage CBs (63%) and other CBs (11%).
    19. See Eurostat (2024), Purchasing power parities in Europe and the world – Statistics Explained (europa.eu)
    20. ECB and the Bank of England, The impaired EU securitisation market: causes, roadblocks and how to deal with them, discussion paper, March 2014.
    21. Dustmann et al. (2014), From Sick Man of Europe to Economic Superstar: Germany’s Resurgent Economy, Journal of Economic Perspectives, Vol. 28(1), pp. 167‑188.
    22. Buchner et al. (2021), Resilienz von Familienunternehmen – Eine systematische Literaturanalyse, Betriebswirtschaftliche Forschung und Praxis 73, Vol. 3, pp. 225 f.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Adnan Zaylani Mohamad Zahid: Keynote address – IFN Asia Forum 2024

    Source: Bank for International Settlements

    Good morning, distinguished guests.

    It always is a pleasure to be back at the IFN Asia Forum 2024. A year ago, we discussed the potential of Asia and the potential contributions of Islamic finance in strengthening regional financial intermediation. Well Asia is certainly delivering amidst global headwinds. Asia’s economic growth continues to gain momentum, driven by stronger domestic demand, rebound in tourism, and robust export activity. Undoubtedly there are pockets of weaknesses but the areas of strength offsets these. In 2023, the region recorded 5% growth, exceeding the global growth of 3.3%. Asia also offers many opportunities for the green economy. The market for green businesses in Asia is projected to grow between USD4-5 trillion by 2030, generating over 14.2 million green-related jobs. The region also requires an annual investment of at least USD1.1 trillion to meet climate and mitigation adaptation needs.

    As for Malaysia, our long-term GDP growth from 2011-23 averaged 4.3%. This surpassed the median long-term growth rates of regional and A-rated peer countries of 3.6% and 2.9% respectively. We have a positive outlook for the economy. We’re expecting this year to be around 5% above our long-term average. Unemployment rate is low, households are still spending, and we have a healthy pipeline of new and on-going projects to support investment in Malaysia. National initiatives under the National Energy Transition Roadmap, New Industrialisation Master Plan 2030 and Green Investment Strategy provide strategic direction as to where we hope capital will flow. So notably, Malaysia recorded a 326% y-o-y growth in green investments to USD1.03 billion in 2023, signalling favourable opportunity in this space.

    Malaysia’s economic prospects are indeed quite favourable. The ringgit, along with regional currencies, have been appreciating against the US dollar notably since early July following greater clarity on the interest rate path of developed countries, especially the US Federal Reserve. The narrowing of interest rate differentials with the US would be conducive to favour portfolio inflows, especially given Malaysia’s positive economic prospects. The domestic landscape is also quite positive. Ongoing government structural reforms, subsidy rationalisation and social protection enhancements offer a window of opportunity to pursue meaningful change. Furthermore, the coordinated actions between the Government and BNM, which has already facilitated a better balance for flows, will continue and this will provide sustainable support for the ringgit. Importantly, ongoing structural reforms by the Government coupled with improving economic prospects will continue to sustain global interest for investment in Malaysia. 

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Welcome speech | Speech delivered at the Bundesbank´s representative office

    Source: Bundesbank

    Check against delivery.

    1 Welcome

    Ladies and Gentlemen:

    For me, it is always a great pleasure to be here. Especially this year, as we celebrate the 15th anniversary of our trading office. Since its inception in April 2009, the trading office has provided the Bundesbank Executive Board with first-hand knowledge from Wall Street and beyond.

    I know for sure that its success rests on a network of exceptional people, namely you! Therefore, I want to start with a big thank you to all of you, for your cooperation and trust over all these years. But before we move on to the fun part, let us look at what has happened in the markets since we last met in September 2023.

    2 Economic backdrop

    From an economic point of view, the world looked different a year ago. Inflation in the euro area – and in the US too – was significantly higher. Almost a year ago to the day [Sept. 2023], the Eurosystem raised its key interest rates for the last time in the tightening cycle. In September 2023, the deposit facility rate reached 4.0 percent. The tightening has done its part to cool euro area inflation. Today, the Eurosystem is well on the way to meeting its inflation target.

    In the US, we also see positive developments in this regard. Inflation has decreased significantly, thanks to a series of interest rate increases. Although US inflation remains above the Fed’s two percent target, things are heading in the right direction – just like in the euro area. In terms of economic growth, the US remains ahead of the euro area. While euro-area GDP grew by 0.4 percent last year[1], the US economy mustered 2.5 percent growth[2]. As it stands today, the US is poised to outperform the euro-area economy once again this year – despite recent signs of a cooling in the US labour market.

    Against the backdrop of lower inflation, central banks on both sides of the Atlantic have taken steps to pare back the degree of monetary-policy restrictiveness. As expected, the Fed last week [Sept. 18] decided to lower its target range for the federal funds rate for the first time in the current cycle.

    In the euro area, the ECB’s Governing Council lowered the deposit facility rate twice already, in June and September, bringing it to 3.5 percent. The Eurosystem also narrowed the spread between the main refinancing rate and the deposit rate from 50 to 15 basis points. The latter step was no surprise. It had already been announced in the context of our Operational Framework Review in March. While excess liquidity will remain high over the coming years, it will gradually decline as part of our monetary policy normalisation. By reducing the spread between the main financing rate and the deposit facility rate, the Eurosystem aims to limit future swings in money market rates, while maintaining incentives for more market activity. We will continue to closely monitor developments in the money markets and other refinancing markets. 

    3 What else have we achieved?

    The Eurosystem – and the Fed – are continuing to shrink their balance sheets. In the euro area, we stopped reinvesting bond redemptions from the asset purchase programme APP [from July 2023 on]. And the Eurosystem is phasing out the remaining reinvestments of redemptions from the Pandemic Emergency Purchase Programme [PEPP] by the end of this year. Furthermore, euro-area banks have repaid the overwhelming share of their long-term crisis loans, the TLTROs. 

    In the US, you are well aware that the Fed had started to reduce its securities holdings approximately a year earlier.

    From a central bank perspective, there are good reasons for this withdrawal of liquidity. With the end of negative [and zero] interest rates, an important reason for large-scale bond purchases has vanished. Furthermore, large balance sheets of central banks can lead to market distortions. They may lead to collateral scarcity or a deterioration of market liquidity. Finally, yet importantly, central banks should only intervene in financial markets to the degree necessary for monetary policy purposes.

    It is encouraging that, so far, the balance sheet reduction has been well received by financial markets. Investors have adapted to a market with fewer central bank purchases and hence less ample liquidity provision. Market functioning remains largely robust.

    4 What challenges lie ahead?

    Ladies and Gentlemen:

    While central banks have made good progress in normalising their monetary policy stance, challenges remain. Let me briefly address three of them.

    First, despite the wave of high inflation nearing its end, we are not there yet. We shouldn’t celebrate prematurely. When it comes to interest rate cuts and their size, we are not flying on autopilot. We must remain vigilant and be wary of the risks on the path back to price stability. That’s our job and that’s what we are committed to delivering. 

    Second, recent market turbulences in early August were brief, but they serve as a warning shot. They show how sensitively markets can react to monetary policy steps – in this case combined with crowded positions in financial markets and macroeconomic triggers. 

    Third, another important factor to watch is China, which faces numerous challenges, including deflationary tendencies in some parts of the economy. Let‘s see how the markets perceive the latest decisions of the PBOC.

    5 Conclusion

    To sum up, markets have coped well with the withdrawal of central bank liquidity. Greater market fluctuations – like those in early August – have so far proven to be limited and temporary. I find this very encouraging. 

    Nevertheless, there is still work to do. We are not completely back to price stability. And central banks will continue to reduce their balance sheets, depending on their individual reduction targets. When it comes to balance sheet size, “less may be more” – as long as liquidity conditions in money markets remain relaxed over-all.

    Footnotes:

    1. Vgl. https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/web/products-euro-indicators/-/2-08032024-ap#:~:text=GDP%20growth%20in%20the%20euro%20area%20and%20the%20EU,-In%20the%20fourth&text=For%20the%20year%202023%20as,the%20third%20quarter%20of%202023). (aufgerufen am 12.09.2024)
    2.  Vgl. https://www.bea.gov/sites/default/files/2024-08/gdp2q24-2nd.pdf
    3. https://www.bea.gov/sites/default/files/2024-08/gdp2q24-2nd.pdf

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fourth Annual Women in STEM Conference Gains Traction

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Women in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields are experiencing a new period of growth, acceptance, and respect in the modern workforce. 

    But when UConn alumna Jeanine Armstrong Gouin studied civil engineering in the 1980s, it was hard to feel welcome in an engineering building that didn’t even have a women’s bathroom. 

    Despite the dreary beginning, Gouin (who graduated in 1987, about four years before the Castleman Building installed women’s restrooms) delivered an inspirational message to an audience of young female STEM students last week.

    A member of the audience asks a question during the Q&A portion of the Career Panel.

    The Women in STEM Frontiers in Research Expo (WiSFiRE) was held on Friday at the UConn Storrs campus. It brought together university undergraduate and graduate students, faculty, staff, alumni, and STEM employees and supporters. 

    WiSFiRE was one of the first conferences in the region to specifically highlight the work of women researchers in STEM. That mission has been solidified through a recent endowment by Gouin.

    Gouin, who is both a UConn Trustee and U.S. division president of environmental consulting firm SLR International Corp., made an undisclosed gift in July to endow the Jeanine Armstrong Gouin Initiative for Women in Leadership at the UConn College of Engineering. 

    The gift will provide financial support for leadership programs and activities that are available to all engineering students, not just women.   

    Part of that endowment will continue to support WiSFiRE.

    Friday’s event included panels, technical talks, and networking opportunities for the men and women leading the STEM fields today. 

    Speakers, panelists and moderators included: Gouin; physics professor Nora Berrah; alumna and University of Kentucky professor Gosia Chwatko; earth sciences professor Ran Feng; animal science professor Sarah Reed; chemical and biomolecular engineering professor Kristina Wagstrom; civil and environmental engineering professor Guiling Wang; electrical and computer engineering professor Zongjie Wang; statistics professor Elizabeth Schifano; biomedical engineering professor Leila Daneshmandi; civil and environmental engineering professor Alexandra Hain; molecular and cell biology professor Kat Milligan-McClellan; biomedical engineering professor Kristin Morgan; civil and environmental engineering professor Fatemeh Fakhrmoosavi; animal science professor Maria Gracia Gervasi; mechanical, aerospace, and manufacturing engineering professor SeungYeon Kang; computing professor Lina Kloub; chemistry professor Priya Shah; pharmacy professor Kristin Waters, and mathematics professor Xiaodong Yan. 

    The expo is co-chaired by UConn Engineering professors Qian Yang and Anna Tarakanova. 

    To the students and budding engineers, UConn faculty advised them to challenge themselves, answer the unanswered questions, get involved, and above all else, be the hard worker they always dreamed of being. 

    “Learn the skills you know you need to learn,” Wagstrom said. “Critically look at everything you’re producing. You are the best judge of your own work.” 

    Tarakanova explained that through Gouin’s support, they hope to build momentum throughout the year, with smaller events and opportunities to gather together between the annual exposition. 

    Jeanine Armstrong Gouin presenting during the fourth annual WiSFiRE.

    “We look to establish more mentor/mentee models through the STEM fields in the university,” Tarakanova said. “While many of us are blessed to have found our ‘home’ of supporters early on in our careers, there are many young women who still need to find their ‘STEM sisters.’” 

    After the event, participants supplied feedback about the days’s offerings. 

    “I personally enjoyed seeing that many amazing women in STEM,” one participant said. “It’s been a long time since the last time I felt welcome in an academic environment, but this event reminded me of who I always wanted to be.” 

    Students enjoyed the opportunities for networking, and the panel speakers. 

    “I enjoyed talking to other people, hearing the inspirational words, and hearing students present research,” one student commented. “I didn’t realize how intimidated I was by research before, and this experience has given me confidence and assurance that I can do it too.” 

    View photos from the event online. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom signs legislation to restrict polluting oil & gas operations near schools, daycares, and across communities

    Source: US State of California 2

    Sep 25, 2024

    What you need to know: New laws will give local communities more authority to protect their neighborhoods from oil and gas operations and drive faster plugging of old oil and gas wells. 

    INGLEWOOD, CA – Governor Gavin Newsom today signed three bills into law allowing communities to restrict oil drilling and help the state address polluting idle wells. The legislation will help protect public health, the environment, and empower local communities to set greater protections around oil and gas activities in their neighborhoods.

    “The health of our communities always comes first. These new laws allow local leaders to limit dangerous oil and gas activities near homes, schools, and other areas as they see fit for their communities, and give the state more tools to make sure that idle and low-producing wells get plugged sooner. This builds off of our all-of-the-above efforts to protect communities from pollution and hold Big Oil accountable.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Empowering local communities to restrict oil and gas operations

    AB 3233 by Assemblymember Dawn Addis (D-Morro Bay) gives cities and counties greater authority to impose restrictions on oil and gas operations, including by limiting or prohibiting new oil and gas developments in their jurisdictions. By providing local jurisdictions with the power to make these decisions, California is taking a major step toward protecting vulnerable communities from the health impacts of industrial operations. The bill overrides recent court decisions that blocked ordinances limiting oil drilling adopted by the voters of Monterey County and the Los Angeles City Council. 

    “The signing of AB 3233 is vital win for communities across the Central Coast, and all of California,” said Assemblymember Dawn Addis (D-Morro Bay). “Putting this bill into law affirms our right to clean air and water, free of oil and gas pollution. I’m thankful to Governor Gavin Newsom for signing this important bill into law, to my colleagues for helping me get it to his desk, and to the many community-members and leaders who have been fighting this battle with me. Today is a huge win for the well-being of all Californians.”

    Addressing the dangers of idle wells in communities

    AB 1866 by Assemblymember Gregg Hart (D-Santa Barbara) addresses the growing problem of idle oil and gas wells across the state. These wells, which are no longer in active use but have not been properly decommissioned, pose a significant risk to both the environment and nearby communities. Under this new law, fees on idle wells are increased and stricter regulations will be enforced to ensure that oil companies are held responsible for maintaining and safely plugging idle wells, preventing leaks and contamination.

    “This is a landmark victory for taxpayers and communities most affected by the harmful health impacts of neighborhood oil drilling,“ said Assemblymember Gregg Hart (D-Santa Barbara). “I am proud of this decisive action we are taking today to hold the oil industry responsible for plugging over 40,000 idle oil wells across California. I want to thank Governor Newsom for recognizing the urgency of solving the idle oil well crisis in the state.”

    Shutting down more oil wells in the Inglewood Oil Field

    AB 2716 by Assemblymember Isaac Bryan (D-Los Angeles) prohibits the operation of low-oil production oil and gas wells located in an oil field within the Baldwin Hills Conservancy (Inglewood Oil Field) and imposes a $10,000 per month penalty on these wells until they are permanently plugged and abandoned. Penalty funds will go to projects like park creation to benefit the community. 

    “The Inglewood Oil Field is the largest urban oil field in our state. Production in recent years has been marginal, but for decades the negative health impacts surrounding it have cost the nearby community with their life expectancy,” said Assemblymember Bryan. “Today, with Governor Newsom’s signature, we will finally shut it down and establish the state’s first repair fund for the frontline communities who have been organizing for years to be seen, heard, and protected.”

    California’s leadership in holding Big Oil accountable

    Together, these laws mark another step forward in California’s ongoing efforts to cut pollution and protect communities. 

    Just last month, Governor Newsom announced a plan to further hold Big Oil accountable for profiting off of Californians while polluting our communities – preventing gas price spikes and saving people money at the pump.

    The state notched a major victory against Big Oil in June, with the industry pulling its referendum to repeal California’s law protecting neighborhoods from the dangerous impacts of drilling. This allowed California’s law requiring setbacks – that oil drilling can’t be within 3,200 feet of sensitive community areas like schools, daycares, and more – to move forward, a crucial protection for public health and safety.  
     
    Last year, California sued Big Oil for more than 50 years of deception, cover-up, and damage that have cost California taxpayers billions of dollars in health and environmental impacts.

    Recent news

    Sep 24, 2024

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Steve Juarez, of Truckee, has been appointed to the California State Teachers’ Retirement Board. Juarez served as a Deputy State Treasurer at the California State Treasurer’s Office…

    Sep 24, 2024

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom today signed a bipartisan legislative package to further reinforce California’s nation-leading gun laws and prevent traumatic incidents of mass violence. The laws build on California’s successful strategies to address gun…

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CFTC Orders Swap Dealer to Pay $1.5 Million Penalty for Position Limit Violations, and Supervision and Position Limit Monitoring Failures

    Source: US Commodity Futures Trading Commission

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Commodity Futures Trading Commission today issued an order filing and settling charges against Merrill Lynch Commodities, Inc., based in Houston, for exceeding the federal and ICE Futures U.S. position limits in contracts that reference natural gas futures traded on the New York Mercantile Exchange and for swap dealer supervision and position limit monitoring failures.

    MLCI admits the facts in the order in section II.C.1, Position Limit Violations; acknowledges its conduct in that section violated the Commodity Exchange Act and CFTC regulations; and otherwise, neither admits nor denies the findings of fact.

    “Federal and exchange position limits are important guardrails that help ensure the integrity of our markets and entities must comply,” said Director of Enforcement Ian McGinley. “Additionally, swap dealers must comply with the business conduct standards in the CEA and CFTC regulations, including diligently supervising their employees and agents and monitoring for position limit violations.”

    The order requires MLCI to pay a $1.5 million civil monetary penalty, cease and desist from further violations of the CEA and CFTC regulations as charged, and comply with conditions and undertakings specified in the order. 

    Case Background

    The CFTC established federal speculative position limits for certain physical-delivery referenced contracts, including the NYMEX Henry Hub Natural Gas Futures (NG) contract. The financially settled ICE Henry LD1 Fixed Price Futures (H) contract references the monthly settlement price published by NYMEX for its NG futures contract. The federal speculative position limit for ICE H contracts, as well as the exchange-set limit, is 2,000 NYMEX NG futures equivalents.

    The order finds on certain trading days during March and April 2023, MLCI held positions in the April 2023, and May 2023, ICE H futures contract, respectively, that ranged from more than 200 contracts to nearly 1,000 contracts in excess of both the federal speculative position limit and the exchange speculative position limit, and MLCI’s positions did not meet the requirements for an exemption under CFTC Regulation 150.3. MLCI also had not been granted an exemption applicable to the relevant positions by the exchange in accordance with ICE’s rules during the relevant period.     

    The order also finds MLCI, a swap dealer registered with the CFTC, did not establish and enforce written policies and procedures reasonably designed to monitor for and prevent violations of applicable federal, exchange, or swap execution facility position limits and to monitor for and prevent improper reliance upon any exemptions or exclusions from such position limits. Additionally, the order finds MLCI did not diligently supervise its employees by lacking an early warning system and written policies and procedures reasonably designed to detect and alert its senior management when position limits were in danger of being breached.

    The order acknowledges MLCI’s cooperation and its representations concerning its remediation in connection with this matter.

    The CFTC thanks ICE for its assistance in this matter.

    The Division of Enforcement staff responsible for this matter are Karin N. Roth, Carrie Kennedy, Gates S. Hurand, Lenel Hickson, Jr., and Manal M. Sultan.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Climate and Health Solutions (CHS) India Conclave jointly organized by Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India and Asian Development Bank inaugurated today in Delhi

    Source: Government of India

    Climate and Health Solutions (CHS) India Conclave jointly organized by Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India and Asian Development Bank inaugurated today in Delhi

    Two-day Conclave aims to address twin emergencies of climate change and public health by bringing together policymakers, experts and stakeholders to develop actionable strategies for India’s health sector

    The Ministry is committed to developing robust strategies that protect the health of our citizens while contributing to global climate goals: Shri Apurva Chandra, Secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

    India’s leadership through G20 Presidency has been instrumental in bringing this issue to the global forefront, and through collaboration with key partners like the Asian Development Bank, we have a unique opportunity to shape resilient and adaptive health systems: Shri Amitabh Kant, G20 Sherpa

    Posted On: 25 SEP 2024 3:41PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), Government of India, in collaboration with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), inaugurated the Climate and Health Solutions (CHS) India Conclave at Delhi. The two-day conclave aims to address the twin emergencies of climate change and public health by bringing together policymakers, experts, and stakeholders to develop actionable strategies for India’s health sector.

     

    Shri Apurva Chandra, Secretary, MoHFW, in his keynote address highlighted the urgent need for integrating climate considerations into health planning. He said that “The Climate and Health Solutions India Conclave is a testament to our commitment to building a climate-resilient health system that addresses the unique needs of developing nations like ours. India is leading by example, integrating climate considerations into our health policies and emergency response mechanisms.”

     

    Shri Apurva Chandra further added that “we are proud to collaborate with the Asian Development Bank and other global partners to ensure that our health sector is equipped to tackle unforeseen climate impacts and support sustainable development for all. Together, we can achieve the vision of ‘One Health, One Family, One Future.”

    Addressing the gathering, Ms. Punya Salila Srivastava, OSD, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, highlighted the steps taken to integrate climate considerations into health planning. She said “India has taken proactive steps in integrating climate change considerations into its public health policies. A pivotal moment in this journey was the creation of the Mission on Climate Change and Health, nearly a decade ago, under the Prime Minister’s Council on Climate Change. In 2019, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare introduced the National Programme on Climate Change and Human Health (NPCCHH) under the National Health Mission.”

    She further added that India’s National Action Plan on Climate Change and Health has served as a blueprint for nearly all States and Union Territories to develop their respective State Action Plans. The next ambition, for a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach, is for each district to assess their vulnerability and develop tailored climate change and health action plans.

    Shri Amitabh Kant, G20 Sherpa, Government of India, in the Presidential Address, emphasized the importance of India’s leadership, scale and size in demonstrating the leapfrogging of development pathways at the intersection of climate change and health for India and the world, remarking, “As we confront rising temperatures, unpredictable weather patterns, and the growing burden on healthcare systems, it is critical that we design integrated, sustainable solutions that safeguard the health of our people and our planet. India’s leadership through the G20 Presidency has been instrumental in bringing this issue to the global forefront, and through collaboration with key partners like the Asian Development Bank, we have a unique opportunity to shape resilient and adaptive health systems. Together, we can forge a path that ensures the well-being of future generations while addressing the urgent imperatives of climate action.”

    Ms. Leena Nandan, Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, discussed India’s progress on sustainable development and the country’s commitments to climate and environmental goals. Underscoring the significance of cross-sectoral collaboration to achieve climate resilience, she stated, “We need macro-planning to address the challenges posed by climate change, particularly in areas like health and resource management. Health system readiness is key to adapting and ensuring a coordinated, complete, and comprehensive approach.”

    Ms. Ayako Inagaki, Senior Director, Human and Social Development Sector Office, Sectors Group, Asian Development Bank stated, “The convergence of climate change and public health presents an urgent challenge that demands collaborative action. India’s vast and diverse landscapes make it a key battleground for addressing climate-induced health risks. Through collective efforts, we can build resilient, sustainable health systems capable of withstanding the evolving impacts of climate change. The Climate and Health Solutions India conclave marks a significant step toward uniting policymakers, experts, and stakeholders in shaping a healthier, climate-resilient future for all.”

    From pledges to implementation, India is leading the climate and health movement from global agenda building to national-level contextualization, and on-ground execution. The conclave, including participation from various government agencies such as the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC), G20 Secretariat, National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), and National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), aims to foster dialogue on building climate-resilient health systems, infrastructure and supply chains. Leading development partners, private institutions and respective representatives from the state governments and the private sector have been invited to share their experiences and insights.

    During the conclave, participants will engage on in-depth strategic and operational deliberations on eight deep-dive roundtable discussions on topics such as Adapting to Climate Change through Urban Heat Mapping and Management, Climate, Vector-Borne Diseases and One Health, Surveillance and Early Warning Systems, Health Based Action for Clean Air, Addressing Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), Mental Health and Nutrition, and Climate Resilient and Responsive Health Infrastructure and Systems for Extreme Weather Events.

    The call for action and package of CHS conclave outcomes includes stimulating dialogue on a nuanced understanding of climate and health challenges and tailored policies for different states and stakeholders in the country, co-creating a comprehensive roadmap and implementation plan to formulate robust policies, initiatives and innovations, identifying core climate and health process, product and technology innovations that can be piloted, scaled and mainstreamed in national and sub-national health plans, and to initiate public and private sector engagement in designing and delivering climate resilient healthcare. The CHS India Conclave underscores the dedication of the Government of India and the Asian Development Bank in advancing climate and health solutions in alignment with international and national leadership and commitments of India.

     

     

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    MV/ AKS

    HFW/ CHS India Conclave/25th September 2024/2

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman McCaul Speaks on the House Floor Condemning Biden-Harris Admin for Failures During the Afghanistan Withdrawal

    Source: US House Committee on Foreign Affairs

    Media Contact 202-226-8467

    Washington, D.C. – Today, House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul delivered remarks on the House floor in support of his resolution H.Res. 1469, “Ensuring Accountability For Key Officials In The Biden-Harris Administration Responsible For Decisionmaking And Execution Failures Throughout The Withdrawal From Afghanistan.” Chairman McCaul’s resolution condemns 15 Biden-Harris administration officials for their dereliction of duty in the deadly withdrawal from Afghanistan. During his remarks, Chairman McCaul emphasized his resolution is the first step to holding the Biden-Harris administration accountable for one of the worst foreign policy failures in United States history on behalf of U.S. servicemembers, Gold Star families, and the American people.

    WATCH HERE

    – Remarks as Delivered –

    Mr. Speaker, three years ago, the world witnessed one of the most devastating foreign policy disasters in American history. The Biden-Harris administration withdrew all U.S. forces from Afghanistan with no plan, no care, and no remorse.

    As a result, 13 brave U.S. servicemembers and over 170 Afghan civilians were murdered, and 45 U.S. servicemembers and countless others were injured.

    Just this month, National Security Council Spokesperson John Kirby was asked whether there had been any accountability for the administration’s deadly and chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan.

    He responded, ‘We’ve all held ourselves accountable.’

    That answer, Mr. Speaker, is detached from all reality.

    Today, the administration touts that deadly withdrawal as a success, and they have yet to hold a single person accountable for their role in this tragedy.  In fact, many of those responsible for this catastrophe have actually been promoted.

    If the administration refuses to hold itself accountable, then Congress must.

    On April 14, 2021, the president announced the Biden-Harris administration would withdraw all troops from Afghanistan.  No matter the cost or the consequences.

    They ignored the Taliban’s violations of the Doha agreement.

    They ignored objections by our nation’s top military and intelligence experts.

    And they ignored objections by our NATO allies.

    According to the administration’s own admission, the Doha Agreement was, ‘immaterial,’ to that decision.

    Following President Biden’s go-to-zero order, the Taliban captured province after province in Afghanistan and the collapse was all but set in stone.

    Astoundingly, this administration did nothing to plan for an evacuation. Instead, they denied threats to American interests, American citizens, and our decades-long Afghan partners.   

    On August 15, 2021, after months of Taliban advances, Kabul fell. The administration’s utter failure to prepare became painfully clear.

    President Biden claimed the very next day that his administration, ‘had planned for all contingencies.’

    Nothing could be further from the truth.

    At every step, the administration prioritized the optics and politics of the withdrawal over the security of U.S. personnel and diplomats on the ground.

    To protect their partisan aims, they ignored the well-known terrorist threats from ISIS-K and the Taliban to our servicemembers, diplomats, citizens, and allies

    The Biden-Harris administration instead chose to treat the Taliban – the very terrorists we had been fighting for 20 years – as security partners for god sake, security partners, during the evacuation.

    This administration created the very environment that allowed an ISIS-K terrorist to pass through a Taliban checkpoint. Because Mr. Speaker, we put the Taliban in charge of the checkpoint. And guess who let the suicide bomber through, the Taliban.

    The result: the deadliest day for American troops in Afghanistan since 2012.

    And on August 26, 2021, that terrorist detonated a suicide vest, murdering 13 U.S. servicemembers and over 170 Afghan civilians, [and] injuring 45 U.S. servicemembers and countless civilians.

    Rather than admit their failure, this administration continues to this day to celebrate their deadly evacuation. Never once have they said, ‘I am sorry,’ to the Gold Star families it took the Speaker of the House and the Congressional Gold Medal ceremony to say, ‘I am sorry for what your government did to you.’

    Just yesterday, President Biden proclaimed to the world that his withdrawal was, ‘the right decision.’

    I believe that is shameful.

    When I became chairman, I launched an investigation so that we, the Congress, could work to ensure that what happened in Afghanistan never happens again.

    And, as everyone here knows, you cannot fix a problem without first admitting there is a problem. That’s what accountability is all about.

    My 353-page report on this investigation works to provide that accountability.

    So today, we take the first step in fixing the problem by holding those accountable, those leaders who were derelict in their duty and are responsible for this disaster. They are:

    • Joseph Biden, President of the United States.
    • Kamala Harris, Vice President of the United States.
    • Jake Sullivan, National Security Advisor.
    • Jonathan Finer, Assistant to the President and Deputy National Security Advisor.
    • Elizabeth Sherwood-Randall, Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Deputy National Security Advisor.
    • John Kirby, National Security Council Spokesperson and former Defense Department Spokesperson.
    • Jen Psaki, Former White House Press Secretary.
    • Antony Blinken, U.S. Secretary of State.
    • Brian McKeon, Former Deputy Secretary of State.
    • Ross Wilson, U.S. Ambassador and former Chief of Mission to U.S. Embassy Kabul.
    • Zalmay Khalilzad, U.S. Ambassador and former Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation.
    • Ned Price, Deputy to the U.S. Representative to the United Nations and former State Department Spokesperson.
    • Lloyd Austin, U.S. Secretary of Defense.
    • Derek Chollet, Chief of Staff to Secretary Austin and former Counselor to Secretary Blinken. 
    • And finally, Colin Kahl, Former Under Secretary of Defense for Policy.

    The American people, U.S servicemembers, veterans, and most importantly the Gold Star families deserve this. They deserve transparency and they deserve Mr. Speaker, accountability.

    This measure is the first step towards that, and I urge my colleagues to support it.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister, Shri Kiren Rijiju highlights key achievements of Ministry of Minority Affairs in the first 100 days of new Government

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 25 SEP 2024 3:52PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Minority Affairs and Parliamentary  Affairs, Shri Kiren Rijiju briefed media about the significant achievements of the Ministries  of Minority Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs at a press conference held  today  in  CGO Complex,New Delhi  . Shri George Kurian, Minister of State for Minority Affairs was also present on the occasion .

    Shri Rijiju highlighted the following key accomplishments of the Ministry of Minority Affairs during the first 100 days of the Government :

    Lok Samvardhan Parv:

    Union Minister for Minority Affairs, inaugurated the ‘Lok Samvardhan Parv’ which was organized as part of the 100 days’ programme by NMDFC, of the Ministry of Minority Affairs. The Parv was organised to showcase the schemes, programmes and achievements of the Ministry and to highlight the activities undertaken in convergence with partner organisations and success stories under its various schemes. A Credit Plan of National Minorities Development & Finance Corporation (NMDFC) for extending credit of over Rs.1000 crores to over 2.5 lakhs beneficiaries during 2024-25 was also released by the  Minister.

    Signing of MOUs between National Minorities Development & Finance Corporation (NMDFC) and three Banks and state Skill Development Missions of three States:

    MOUs between NMDFC and Indian Bank, Union Bank of India and Punjab Gramin Bank were signed for implementation of various schemes of NMDFC through these banks. This would facilitate in extending loans in the un represented areas.

    Announcement of package for Laddakh and interaction with beneficiaries of NMDFC:

    • In the Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, Minister for Minority Affairs, participated in a Beneficiary Interaction Programme held in Kargil on 14th July, 2024. Organized by the Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh Finance Corporation (JKLFC) in collaboration with the National Minorities Development and Finance Corporation (NMDFC).
    • The programme highlighted a strong commitment to fostering socio-economic development of Minority communities through financial assistance and support.
    • The sanction of Rs. 10 crore was announced to the Sindhu Infrastructure Development Corporation (SIDCO) and Rs. 21.00 crores to JKLFC for the financial year 2024-25.

    Launch of PM VIKAS:

    “Pradhan Mantri Virasat Ka Samvardhan” (PM VIKAS) is an integrated scheme of the Ministry of Minority Affairs converging its five erstwhile schemes namely Seekho aur Kamao, USTTAD, Nai Manzil, Nai Roshni, and Hamari Dharohar. The PM VIKAS scheme aims towards socio-economic upliftment of minorities through various initiatives, including:

     

    • Providing skill development training in courses covering both modern and traditional job roles.
    • Organizing capacity-building workshops for artisans.
    • Preserving the Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) of minority communities.
    • Promoting minority women’s leadership and entrepreneurship.
    • Educational support to minority youth through National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS)
    • Addressing infrastructure needs in convergence with the Ministry’s PMJVK scheme.

    Additionally, the scheme will facilitate credit linkages by connecting beneficiaries with loan programs offered by the National Minorities Development & Finance Corporation (NMDFC). Beneficiaries would also be supported for market linkages through EPCH (Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts) to enhance their livelihood.

    Launch of Haj Suvidha App:

    1. A game changer in Haj Management during Haj-2024.
    2. Provides the pilgrims access to training content, accommodation and flight details, baggage information, an emergency helpline (SOS), grievance redressal, feedback, language translation, and miscellaneous information and services related to the pilgrimage and also facilitates better coordination and control of the pilgrims by the Indian administration in KSA.
    3. Has been a great enabler in better grievance redressal and dissemination of information, and also for a more cohesive response mechanism from the administration.
    4. The application process from aspiring pilgrims has also been onboarded onto the App for Haj-2025, thereby taking another important step towards the objective making the App an end to end digital solution for the pilgrims.
    5. A bilateral visit to Saudi Arabia is proposed to improve coordination and cooperation between the authorities in India and Saudi Arabia w.r.t. Haj administration.

     

    Preparation of Operational Manual for conducting of Urs for Durgah Khawaja Saheb, Ajmer:

    Urs of Khawaja Moin ud din Chishti, a complex logistics event, organised and made successful by the close coordination of the Durgah Committee, the District Administration, the various religious functionaries and the general Public.

    Urs provides a major boost to the economy of Ajmer and benefits the Small and Medium businesses and generating income and employment. For the first time, an Operational Manual to codify and standardize the conduct of Urs of Khawaja Moin-ud-din Chishti has been made, to ensure a smooth and satisfactory experience for the countless pilgrims who throng Ajmer during Urs.

    Usage of Digital Technology for facilitating pilgrims in various aspects of Durgah Khawaja Saheb, Ajmer:

    Ministry of Minority Affairs has also developed a DKS Suvidha Mobile App & a Web portal for Durgah Khawaja Saheb.

    This Web Portal and Mobile Application shall allow pilgrims from far flung corners of the Country unable to visit Ajmer to participate in the activities of the Durgah and feel the warmth and blessings of the Khawaja Gharib Nawaz.

    Launch of Jiyo Parsi Web Portal:

    The “Jiyo Parsi Scheme Portal” was launched by  Minister of Minority Affairs on 13th August, 2024.

    The Portal would enable them to apply online, check the status of their application and to receive the financial assistance online through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mode.

    Adopting circuit based approach targeting minorities within minorities:

    MoMA is adopting a circuit-based approach for growth of minorities within minorities especially Parsis, Buddhists, Jains, Sikhs. For the same, the projects have been undertaken and sanctioned for Buddhist community and for Jain, Sikh and Parsi Communities across States/UTs such as Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Uttarakhand, Delhi, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra amounting to Rs.401.37 Crore.

    Aanganwadi to Artificial Intelligence:

    PMJVK has also enhanced its approach in terms of sanctioning of projects. Now the Scheme, apart from civil infrastructure, has also brought digital infrastructure under its purview. As part of this, with continued financial support for Aanganwadi centres, MoMA takes an instrumental initiative under its PMJVK to grant 100% finance for boosting AI through 5G & Cyber Security labs at NIT Jalandhar ensuring trained workforce for digital India.

    Integration with Gati Shakti Portal:

    These 100 days have also been focussed towards strengthening of the existing ecosystem through digitized Scheme processes and evaluation mechanisms. Under PMJVK, to ensure optimum utilisation of funds, MoMA has initiated use of PM GatiShakti portal to include needy areas under the scheme. This will add in ensuring zero overlaping of efforts and identify the areas of implementation.

    The Scheme is also working towards strengthening of on-ground monitoring of infrastructure assets as it has taken a stride in geo-tagging of all its infrastructure units across States/UTs on BHUVAN Portal of ISRO / NRSC in addition to presence of these units on PM GatiShakti portal. In continuation of digitization initiative, new PMJVK web-portal for overall digitised approval processes is also being developed.

    Bhashini technology adaptation for a minority language:

    The Ministry of Minority Affairs has successfully integrated the BHASHINI initiative into its official website, minorityaffairs.gov.in. By incorporating Web Translation of BHASINI platform, the ministry aims to provide multilingual access to its services and information, ensuring that citizens from diverse linguistic backgrounds can easily navigate and engage with government programs. This implementation underscores the government’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and enabling equal access to resources for all communities.

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    SS/KC/PRK

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Make in India Celebrates 10 Years: A Decade of Transformational Growth

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Make in India Celebrates 10 Years: A Decade of Transformational Growth

    India’s Manufacturing Revolution Gathers Momentum with Focus on Innovation, Investment, and Self-reliance

    Posted On: 25 SEP 2024 3:52PM by PIB Delhi

    The ‘Make in India’ initiative, launched on 25th September 2014, completes a landmark decade of empowering India to become a global manufacturing hub. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the program has played a pivotal role in boosting domestic manufacturing, fostering innovation, enhancing skill development, and facilitating foreign investment.

    10 Years of Impact: A Snapshot

    Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): Since 2014, India has attracted a cumulative FDI inflow of USD 667.4 billion (2014-24), registering an increase of 119% over the preceding decade (2004-14). This investment inflow spans 31 States and 57 sectors, driving growth across diverse industries. Most sectors, except certain strategically important sectors, are open for 100% FDI under the automatic route. FDI equity inflows into the manufacturing sector over the past decade (2014-24) reached USD 165.1 billion, marking a 69% increase compared to the previous decade (2004 -14), which saw inflows of USD 97.7 billion.

    Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme: The PLI Schemes introduced in 2020 have resulted in ₹1.32 lakh crore (USD 16 billion) in investments and a significant boost in manufacturing output of ₹10.90 lakh crore (USD 130 billion) as of June 2024. Over 8.5 lakh jobs have been created directly and indirectly due to the initiative.

    Exports & Employment: India’s merchandise exports surpassed USD 437 billion in FY 2023-24. Exports have surged, with an additional ₹4 lakh crore generated due to the PLI schemes, while total employment in the manufacturing sector increased from 57 million in 2017-18 to 64.4 million in 2022-23.

    Ease of Doing Business: India’s commitment to improving business conditions is evident in its sharp rise from 142nd rank in 2014 to 63rd rank in 2019 in the World Bank’s Doing Business Report. Over 42,000 compliances have been reduced, and 3,700 provisions has been decriminalized. The Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2023, passed by Lok Sabha on 27th July 2023 and Rajya Sabha on 2nd August 2023, which has decriminalized 183 provisions across 42 Central Acts.

     

     

    Key Reforms

    Semiconductor Ecosystem Development: Semicon India Program, worth ₹76,000 crore, aims to provide an impetus to semiconductor and display manufacturing by facilitating capital support and technological collaborations.  India has developed policies to support every segment of the semiconductor ecosystem, not just focusing on fabs but also including packaging, display wires, OSATs, sensors, and more.

    National Single Window System (NSWS): Launched in September 2021, this platform simplifies the investor experience, integrating clearances from 32 Ministries/ Departments and 29 States/UTs, facilitating rapid approvals.

    PM Gatishakti: PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan (NMP), a GIS based platform with portals of various Ministries/Departments of Government, was launched in October, 2021. It is a transformative approach to facilitate data-based decisions related to integrated planning of multimodal infrastructure, thereby reducing logistics cost.

    National Logistics Policy (NLP): Aimed at reducing logistics costs and increasing efficiency, the NLP, launched in 2022, is key to making Indian products more globally competitive.

    Industrial Corridors & Infrastructure: The development of 11 industrial corridors under the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme has seen the approval of 12 new projects with a projected investment of ₹28,602 crore. These corridors enhance India’s competitiveness by providing world-class infrastructure.

    One-District-One-Product (ODOP): Promoting indigenous products and craftsmanship across India, the ODOP initiative has fostered local economic development, with Unity Malls being set up in 27 states to provide platforms for these unique products.

    Startup India: The Government with intent to build a strong ecosystem for nurturing innovation and encouraging investments launched the Startup India initiative on 16th January 2016. Sustained efforts by the Government under the Startup India initiative have led to an increase in the number of recognised startups to 1,40,803 as on 30th June 2024, which have created over 15.5 lakh direct jobs.

    Government of India has undertaken a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach to boost both domestic and foreign investments, fostering a robust and dynamic economic environment. From landmark reforms such as the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and the reduction in corporate tax, to far-reaching measures aimed at improving ease of doing business and streamlining FDI policies, every step is geared towards creating a more investment-friendly ecosystem. Initiatives like the Phased Manufacturing Programme (PMP), public procurement orders, and Quality Control Orders (QCOs) are focused on driving domestic manufacturing and enhancing product quality.

    The Government’s proactive response to the challenges posed by COVID-19, through the Atmanirbhar Bharat packages and targeted investments under the National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP) and National Monetization Pipeline (NMP), has turned adversity into an opportunity for growth. Tools such as the India Industrial Land Bank (IILB), Industrial Park Rating System (IPRS), and the National Single Window System (NSWS) further streamline processes for investors. Additionally, Project Development Cells (PDCs) in various Ministries ensure that investment proposals are fast-tracked, making India a more attractive destination for global and domestic investors. These efforts collectively reinforce India’s position as a burgeoning hub for manufacturing and innovation.

    As India moves into its next decade of growth, Make in India 2.0 focuses on furthering sustainability, innovation, and self-reliance. With strategic interventions in renewable energy, green technologies, and advanced manufacturing, the initiative is ensuring that Indian products meet the highest global standards.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Extension of last date of receive comments/ counter comments on the consultation paper on Review of Telecom Commercial Communications Customer Preference regulation, 2018

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 25 SEP 2024 3:55PM by PIB Delhi

    The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has released a Consultation Paper on “Review of Telecom Commercial Communications Customer Preference regulation, 2018”. The last date for submission of comments on the issues raised in the Consultation Paper by the Stakeholders is 25th Sep 2024 and for counter comments by 9th Oct 2024.

    In view of the requests received from Stakeholders for extension of time for submission of comments on the ground that paper is very comprehensive and detailed, requires extensive deliberations and more time is required to discuss and respond, it has been decided to extend the last date of submission of comments on the issues raised in the Consultation Paper by 9th October, 2024 and Counter comments by 16th  October, 2024.

    The comments and counter comments may be sent preferably in the electronic form, on TRAI website in the specified template with copy to advqos@trai.gov.in. For any clarification/information, Shri Jaipal Singh Tomar, Advisor (QoS-II) may be contacted at e-mail: advqos@trai.gov.in.

    No further extension, in this regard, shall be granted.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Bharat has emerged as the most buoyant economy in the world that has 8% growth prospects for decades to come, stresses VP

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Bharat has emerged as the most buoyant economy in the world that has 8% growth prospects for decades to come, stresses VP

    India is now a global happening place and Uttar Pradesh is bubbling with activity, says VP

    Local to Global: Propelling India’s Economic Rise, says Shri Dhankhar

    Vice-President lauds Uttar Pradesh’s Transformation into ‘Uttam Pradesh’

    Synergy between PM Modi’s Vision and CM Yogi’s Leadership Driving India’s Journey toward Viksit Bharat by 2047, says VP Dhankhar

    Vice-President inaugurates the 2nd Edition of UP International Trade Show at Greater Noida in UP

    Posted On: 25 SEP 2024 3:53PM by PIB Delhi

    The Hon’ble Vice-President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar today stated that Bharat is now one of the most buoyant economies in the world and a favorite destination for global investment. Delivering the inaugural address at the 2nd edition of the Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show 2024, held in Greater Noida today, Shri Dhankhar highlighted, “Today, Bharat is a near $4 trillion economy that has 8% growth prospects for decades to come. India is now a global happening place and Uttar Pradesh, the state bubbling with activity”.

    Praising the country’s infrastructure development, Shri Dhankhar cited  addition of 8 new airports annually, rapid expansion of metro systems, and the daily construction of 28 kilometres of highway. Shri Dhankhar pointed to the 12 new industrial zones taking shape under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, which will boost manufacturing and position India to capitalize on emerging technologies like AI, electric mobility, and semiconductors.

    The Vice-President emphasized the significant advancements in India’s infrastructure, stating, “We now have the world’s second-largest metro network, and the number of cities with airports has doubled from 70 to 140. India is the largest connected nation globally, with over 800 million broadband users.” He further highlighted the impact of digital technologies, which have enabled housing for 170 million people, health coverage for 60 million, and loans for 58 million small businesses annually.

    “In terms of digital financial transactions, India records the highest globally, with 13 billion transactions per month. Additionally, we boast the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem, featuring 117 unicorns and the third-largest purchasing power in the world,” he noted.

    Shri Dhankhar also underscored the importance of the semiconductor industry, stating, “This industry, which is critical to our growth, is projected to surpass $55 billion by 2026. I have no doubt this century belongs to Bharat”, he noted.

    Additionally, the Vice-President highlighted Bharat’s remarkable leap from “Make in India” to “Conceptualize, Design, and Make in India.” He noted that India is now engaged in its own concept evolution, with both multinational corporations and Indian companies adopting a synergetic stance.

    This event, Shri Dhankhar remarked, aligns with Prime Minister Modi’s vision of an ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ and embraces the motto of ‘Local to Global.’ “First, it was ‘Vocal for Local,’ and now we are taking it to the next level with ‘Local to Global.’ India’s progress is evident in various sectors, and this trade show serves as the right epicentre to propel that growth,” he added.

    Shri Dhankhar lauded Uttar Pradesh’s transformation into Uttam Pradesh under the synergy between Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision and Chief Minister Shri Yogi Adityanath’s execution. He highlighted that this same synergy is propelling India’s transformation towards a Viksit Bharat by 2047.

    Commending the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Shri Yogi Adityanath, the Vice President highlighted how Uttar Pradesh, once plagued with challenges, has been transformed into a beacon of progress and development. “Nothing is more important for investment than Law and order. Law and order defines Democracy and the CM of UP Yogi Adityanath defines Law and order!” he noted.

    The Vice-President also highlighted the significance of showcasing Vietnam as the Partner Country at the trade show, describing it as a natural partnership that will foster cultural and economic exchanges between the two nations while strengthening the resolve for a greater role for Global South in international affairs. “Vietnam has impressive GDP of $435 billion, and we look forward to witnessing their exceptional products and innovative manufacturing practices”, VP said.

    Shri Dhankhar said, “In this phenomenal economic upsurge and unprecedented infrastructure growth across the nation, the largest state of Uttar Pradesh is playing a pivotal role, unlike the scenario that existed a few years ago.” The Vice President expressed confidence that under CM Yogi Adityanath’s able leadership, Uttar Pradesh will achieve its target of becoming a $1 trillion economy by 2027, contributing significantly to India’s emergence as a $5 trillion economy.

    With its vast resources, burgeoning population, and strategic location, Uttar Pradesh is emerging as a growth engine propelling India’s economic trajectory. The Vice President stated, “Uttar Pradesh is no longer a sleeping giant; it is now a state in action, leveraging its strengths such as fertile land, a young workforce, religious tourism, and a vibrant ecosystem of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).”

    Recalling the past, the Vice-President noted, “A decade ago, our economy was staggering, and the mood of the nation was shaky. But the last decade has seen unprecedented transformation.

    Finally the Vice-President called for collective effort, stating, “Ladies and gentlemen, as we advance, we are witnessing a new dawn for Uttar Pradesh—a future where our nation stands tall as a global leader in trade, innovation, and cultural heritage.”

    The Vice-President also visited the exhibition on the premises.

    Shri Yogi Adityanath, Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh; Shri Jitan Ram Manji, Minister of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, Govt. of India, Shri Nand Gopal Gupta ‘Nandi’, Minister of Industrial Development, Export Promotion, NRI, Investment Promotion, Govt. of Uttar Pradesh, Shri Rakesh Sachan, Minister of MSME, Khadi and Villages Industries, Sericulture Industries, Handloom and Textile, Govt. of Uttar Pradesh and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.

    Read full text here : https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2058592

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister condoles demise of former MLA, Smt. Suryakanta Vyas

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 25 SEP 2024 7:42PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has expressed deep grief over the demise of former MLA from Sursagar, Rajasthan, Smt. Suryakanta Vyas. Shri Modi said that she will always be remembered for her works for public welfare in the Sursagar, Rajasthan.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. Rep. Rose Votes ‘No’ on Another Continuing Resolution

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Rose (TN-06)

    Washington, DC—Today, U.S. Representative John Rose (TN-06) voted ‘No’ on H.R. 9747, the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2025, which would extend federal government funding until December 20th at levels originally passed in two “minibus” funding bills, the first being on March 6th, 2024 totaling $432 billion and the second on March 22nd, 2024 totaling $1.2 trillion.

    Rep. Rose has voted ‘No’ on every short-term government funding bill known as a Continuing Resolution, or CR, that has not included significant spending cuts or policies to secure the border or safeguard American elections.

                                                                                     

    Rep. Rose released the following statement:

    “Tennesseans sent me to Washington to make difficult decisions on how to spend their hard-earned taxpayer dollars and not take the easy route by voting for a CR that extends inflationary spending into the lame duck session of Congress,” said Rep. Rose. “With the national debt well over $35 trillion and government deficits topping $1.7 trillion a year, I could not in good conscience support a continuation of the status quo. Washington must take after Tennessee and restore fiscal constraint or risk driving the future prosperity of our country off an insurmountable fiscal ledge.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Palmer Leads Letter Condemning Mexican Government for Actions Against Vulcan Materials

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Gary Palmer (R-AL)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – In response to the Mexican Government’s continued efforts to seize Vulcan Material’s deep-water port in Quintana Roo, Mexico, Representative Gary Palmer (AL-06) led a letter to the Ambassador of Mexico to the United States condemning Mexico’s actions. Regarding the letter, Rep. Palmer released the following statement:

    “Mexico’s continued disregard for the rule of law signals to companies in the United States and the rest of the world that Mexico cannot be trusted,” said Rep. Palmer. “By continuing to mistreat Vulcan Materials, the Mexican Government sets a dangerous precedent for our trade relationship. American companies being mistreated by foreign governments will not be tolerated.”

    The letter was signed by a bipartisan group of lawmakers including Representatives Robert Aderholt (AL-04), Jerry Carl (AL-01), Barry Moore (AL-02), Mike Rogers (AL-03), Terri Sewell (AL-07), Dale Strong (AL-05), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), Jay Obernolte (CA-23), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Aaron Bean (FL-04), Maria Salazar (FL-27), Chuck Edwards (NC-11), Thomas Kean (NJ-7th), Vincente Gonzalez (TX-34), August Pfluger (TX-11), and Beth Van Duyne (TX-24).

    The full text of the letter can be found here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Beyer Introduces Legislation To Support Wildlife Migration and Protect Biodiversity

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Don Beyer (D-VA)

    Reps. Don Beyer (D-VA) and Vern Buchanan (R-FL) today introduced the Wildlife Corridors and Habitat Connectivity Conservation Act to establish an American Wildlife Corridors System that allows species to move freely and safely between habitats to access resources, establish new territories, promote gene flow, and adapt to the impacts of changing climate.

    “One of the simplest yet most effective solutions to address biodiversity loss caused by habitat loss, degradation, fragmentation, and obstruction is providing species opportunity to move across lands and waters,” said Rep. Don Beyer. “By connecting different habitat areas, we can allow animals to move safely between them without the threat of barriers that often put species in danger. Our legislation would direct key Federal land and water management agencies to develop and manage national wildlife corridors to enhance biodiversity, support ecosystem stability, and benefit both wildlife and human communities.”

    “Corridors increase wildlife movement between habitat areas by approximately 50 percent compared to areas not connected by corridors. By protecting wildlife corridors, this bill will help conserve and restore America’s wildlife, from Florida panthers to monarch butterflies,” said Susan Holmes, Executive Director of the Endangered Species Coalition. “We thank Congressman Beyer and Congressman Buchanan for introducing this important bill.”

    “Defenders of Wildlife appreciates Reps. Beyer and Buchanan’s leadership in protecting America’s wildlife and their habitats through this strategic and collaborative approach to conservation planning,” said Mary Beth Beetham, Legislative Director for Defenders of Wildlife. “By allowing animals to move across landscapes to access food and respond to climate change, connecting our lands and waters is key to the survival of a diverse array of species, from the iconic grizzly bear to the monarch butterfly. The Wildlife Corridors Conservation Act is an investment in our natural heritage and the type of proactive wildlife stewardship that transcends political affiliation, speaking to the heart of our American values.”

    The Wildlife Corridors and Habitat Connectivity Conservation Act would establish and maintain a habitat connectivity area mapping and science program to support State, local, and Tribal government efforts to protect and designate habitat connectivity areas as American wildlife corridors. The bill would also establish a wildlife corridor grant program administered by the National Fish and Wildlife to support these efforts.

    Text of the Wildlife Corridors and Habitat Connectivity Conservation Act is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Palmer to Host Meet and Greet in District

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Gary Palmer (R-AL)

    BIRMINGHAM, AL – Representative Gary Palmer (AL-06) and his staff will host a Meet and Greet on September 3, 2024. This event is open to the public so that the people of the Sixth Congressional District have the opportunity to ask questions and share their opinion on current events directly with Rep. Palmer and staff.

    Tuesday, September 3

    6:00PM – 7:30PM

    Gardendale City Hall

    925 Main Street

    Gardendale, Alabama 35017

    Any press planning to attend this event must email Hope.Dawson@Mail.House.Gov no later than an hour before the event. 

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Carbajal Votes to Prevent Harmful Government Shutdown, Avert Pay Cut for Wildland Firefighters

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Salud Carbajal (CA-24)

    Rep. Salud Carbajal (CA-24) voted today on a clean extension of government funding that averts a costly government shutdown, rejects Project 2025 policy riders, and averts an imminent pay cut for federal wildland firefighters currently battling blazes across California.

    “From the beginning of this Congress, House Democrats and I have made it clear that we are prepared to work across the aisle to find bipartisan common ground to responsibly fund our government and sustain programs that help Central Coast families. But since we finalized last year’s budget, House Republican leadership has spent more time pursuing policies from Donald Trump’s Project 2025, putting right-wing extremist priorities like voter suppression ahead of actually governing – all while endangering our national security, veteran’s benefits, and essential services,” said Rep. Carbajal.

    “This lack of bipartisan cooperation has put Congress in a position to once again need to extend government funding to the end of this year while we continue working to finalize a budget for the coming fiscal year. As ever, I remain committed to putting governing ahead of partisan games, and I hope my colleagues will do the same.”

    “I’m glad that this bill averts the impending pay cliff for federal wildland firefighters. As my colleagues and I have advocated for throughout this Congress, I will continue to push for our permanent fix to be included in the final budget agreement later this year. Our wildland firefighters are working day and night to protect our communities from dangerous fires. The last thing we should do is allow a devastating pay cut in the middle of fire season.”

    The funding resolution passed today by the U.S. House of Representatives sustains current government funding levels through December 20, 2024. The measure now advances to the Senate, where it is expected to pass and reach the President’s desk before the end of the Fiscal Year on Monday, September 30.

    Congressman Carbajal pushed to avert the impending pay cut for federal wildland firefighters by advocating for passage of the Wildland Firefighter Paycheck Protection Act to permanently increase the base pay, deployment pay, and benefits for federal wildland firefighters. He introduced this bill with his colleagues last year to make permanent the pay increases provided by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law in 2021.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Mike Levin’s Statement Supporting Government Funding Extension

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Sander Levin (9th District of Michigan)

    September 25, 2024

    Bill Prevents Government Shutdown & Avoids Extremist Republican Proposals that Hurt Our Nation’s Veterans & Families

    Washington, D.C. – Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49) today released the following statement regarding his vote in support of the short-term government funding bill to extend current funding levels through December 20, 2024.

    “I voted for the short-term government funding bill because a shutdown would have been harmful to our service members, families, and workers. I’m pleased this bill does not contain the extremist provisions proposed by House Republicans that threaten our democratic voting rights and national security. It represents a bipartisan solution that will keep the government running into December.

    “That said, I’m disappointed we could not reach an agreement that addresses the Veterans Health Administration’s $12 billion budget shortfall. This lack of funding could jeopardize veterans’ medical care and health services. I will continue to advocate for veterans and their benefits in upcoming funding bills that will be negotiated at the end of the year.

    “However, the ongoing budget fights that require us to pass short-term funding bills are emblematic of the ongoing dysfunction and chaos within the House Republican conference. They have been unable to pass a year-long government funding legislation that puts us on a stable fiscal footing.

    “Ultimately, we need to work together to pass year-long government funding every fiscal year in a timely manner to tackle our nation’s challenges. I am committed to doing just that.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Upgrades to Chilkoot Way route in Whitehorse 

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    News release

    Whitehorse, Yukon, September 25, 2024 — Every day commuting and travel will be improved on the Chilkoot Way route in Whitehorse after a joint investment of $850,000 from the federal government and the City of Whitehorse.

    Upgrades include the installation of a new two-way protected bicycle lane on the north side of Chilkoot Way, a new pedestrian crossing, signage, crossing markings at high conflict areas and improved lighting. As well, there will be upgrades to traffic lights, an additional advance left turn signal at Chilkoot and Two Mile Hill, and a new cyclist push button for better accessibility. The cycling route will connect residents to downtown schools, the Whitehorse Health Clinic, workplaces and retail destinations along the riverfront, and routes between neighbourhoods.

    Improving the Chilkoot Way route provides a more accessible and safer active transportation connection to the existing Riverfront and Two Mile Hill multi-use paved pathways, and will make travelling easier for those who are walking, cycling or using transit.

    Quotes

    “The improvement of active transportation routes for communities supports healthier ways for people to travel. Upgrades to the Chilkoot Way route in Whitehorse will make transportation infrastructure for cyclists, pedestrians and transit users easier and more accessible as they travel to where they need to go every day.”

    The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities

    “We are pleased to partner with the federal government to enhance the active transportation network in Whitehorse. The new active transportation route along Chilkoot Way is a game changer for cyclists moving into and out of the downtown core. It also promotes inclusivity, health and connection, catering to everyone, regardless of physical mobility, age or fitness level. This project represents the City’s ongoing commitment to developing a more sustainable and accessible community.”

    Her Worship Laura Cabott, Mayor of Whitehorse

    Quick facts

    • The federal government is investing $588,750 in this project through the Active Transportation Fund (ATF), and the City of Whitehorse is contributing $261,250.

    • Active transportation refers to the movement of people or goods powered by human activity. It includes walking, cycling and the use of human-powered or hybrid mobility aids such as wheelchairs, scooters, e-bikes, rollerblades, snowshoes, cross-country skis, and more.

    • In support of Canada’s National Active Transportation Strategy, the Active Transportation Fund is providing $400 million over five years, starting in 2021, to make travel by active transportation easier, safer, more convenient, and more enjoyable.

    • The National Active Transportation Strategy is the country’s first coast-to-coast-to-coast strategic approach for promoting active transportation and its benefits. The strategy’s aim is to make data-driven and evidence-based investments to build new and expanded active transportation networks, while supporting equitable, healthy, active, and sustainable travel options.

    • Investing in active transportation infrastructure provides many tangible benefits, such as creating employment opportunities, strengthening the economy, promoting healthier lifestyles, ensuring equitable access to services and opportunities, cutting air and noise pollution, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. 

    • Beginning in 2026-2027, the new Canada Public Transit Fund (CPTF) will provide an average of $3 billion a year of permanent funding to respond to local transit needs by enhancing integrated planning, improving access to public transit and active transportation, and supporting the development of more affordable, sustainable, and inclusive communities. 

    • The CPTF supports transit and active transportation investments in three streams: Metro Region Agreements, Baseline Funding, and Targeted Funding.

    • We are currently accepting Expression of Interest submissions for Metro-Region Agreements and Baseline Funding. Visit the Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada website for more information.

    Associated links

    Contacts

    For more information (media only), please contact:

    Sofia Ouslis
    Communications Advisor
    Office of the Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities
    Sofia.ouslis@infc.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada
    613-960-9251
    Toll free: 1-877-250-7154
    Email: media-medias@infc.gc.ca
    Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn
    Web: Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada

    Matthew Cameron
    Manager, Strategic Communications
    City of Whitehorse
    867-689-0515
    matthew.cameron@whitehorse.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: President Meloni attends Ukraine reconstruction event via video link

    Source: Government of Italy (English)

    At the invitation of the President of the United States of America, Joe Biden, the President of the Council of Ministers, Giorgia Meloni, participated via video link in today’s event dedicated to the economic recovery and reconstruction of Ukraine, attended by President Volodymyr Zelensky, the other G7 nations, the leaders of the European Union and numerous international partners.

    On this occasion, the Group of Seven adopted a declaration coordinated by the Italian Presidency, which is also open to the other States that participated in the event to join.

    The meeting centred around reaffirming the joint commitment to ensuring economic aid to Ukraine, both bilaterally and through multilateral mechanisms, with a particular focus on reforms. Lastly, support for the protection and recovery of critical energy infrastructure was also reiterated as well as coordination on reconstruction, also ahead of the Ukraine Recovery Conference to be held in Rome in 2025.

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  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Readout of the Secretary-General’s meeting with H.E. Mr. Alain Berset, Secretary General of the Council of Europe [scroll down for French]

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    The Secretary-General met with H.E. Mr. Alain Berset, Secretary General of the Council of Europe.
     
    They discussed the central importance of strengthening human rights in the multilateral system, and cooperation between the two Organizations. They also discussed the war in Ukraine.
     
    ***
     
    Le Secrétaire-General a rencontré S.E. M. Alain Berset, le Secrétaire Général du Conseil de l’Europe.
     
    Ils ont discuté de l’importance centrale du renforcement des droits humains dans le système multilatéral, ainsi que de la coopération entre les deux organisations. Ils ont aussi discuté de la guerre en Ukraine.
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hageman Votes NO on CR that Fails to Include SAVE Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Wyoming Congresswoman Harriet Hageman

    Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Harriet Hageman voted against a continuing resolution that increases government spending while simultaneously failing to protect federal elections from illegal voters.

    Representative Hageman stated, “I heard from constituents across Wyoming who made clear there should be no consideration of a continuing resolution without protecting our elections. CRs are bad fiscal policy that prevent Congress from addressing real substantive issues while also failing to curb excessive spending. Not only does this CR fail to include the SAVE Act, which is critical to protecting federal elections from illegal voting, but it increases spending beyond the bloated amounts that have put our country $35.4 trillion in debt. This CR is also set to expire on December 20th, thereby setting us up to vote on an omnibus spending bill right before Christmas, not to mention the fact that it will be chock full of reckless spending and even more bad policies. The very tactic that we have decried for years – end of year massive omnibus spending designed to force a vote before the holidays – is once again standard operating procedure. Americans deserve better.”

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    Contact: Chris Berardi, Sr. Advisor/Communications Director

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Deputy Secretary-General’s remarks at the opening of the 2024 Global Africa Business Initiative (GABI) event – Unstoppable Africa [as prepared for delivery]

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    Ladies and gentlemen, Esteemed guests, and partners in progress,

    Welcome to the third annual flagship convening of the Global Africa Business Initiative.

    Three years ago, we gathered here to explore the possibilities of investing in Africa and building the future we all envision.

    Since then, our world has experienced seismic changes. The global landscape, already volatile, has grown more uncertain. Conflicts, geopolitical tensions, economic disruptions, and an escalating climate crisis have exposed the fragility of our systems.

    Yet, through this darkness, we see African leadership shining through.  Here, I commend H.E. Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the AU Commission for his outstanding leadership over the last decade. Under his leadership, we have seen the signing of the landmark African Continental Free Trade

    Area, a stronger relationship between the AU and the UN through the signing of the AU-UN Framework on Implementation of Agenda 2063 and Agenda 2030, and his championing of GABI.

    Dear friends,

    We see Africa’s economic leadership in the African Union’s inclusion in the G20 – a groundbreaking step that amplifies Africa’s voice in global economic governance. It ensures that the continent’s development priorities are part of the decisions shaping a more equitable and sustainable future.

    The African Continental Free Trade Area is further evidence that Africa’s economic leadership is accelerating, poised to drive jobs, growth and economic integration into the future.

    Meanwhile, we see Africa’s peace leadership as the African Union continues its strong commitment to peacekeeping, focusing on conflict resolution and governance reform in Sudan, Ethiopia, and the Sahel, and silencing the guns by 2030.

    We see Africa’s political leadership in many leaders’ efforts to strengthen the institutions of democratic governance. The unconstitutional changes of power we see in some countries are deeply troubling – but in as much as they are the exception, not the rule, we must ensure our democracies deliver lest this becomes the norm.

    We certainly see African leadership in the global transition to renewable energy – from the continent’s rich natural resources, to the increasing number of African solar, wind and hydropower projects, to its place as a home for the critical minerals required to power the renewables revolution.

    We see Africa’s innovation leadership enabled by the African Union’s Startup Policy framework which provides a roadmap for member states to create policies that empower the next generation of innovators.

    Africa’s unquestioned demographic leadership, with a youthful and rapidly growing population – is an unparalleled asset, that can capitalize on the sweeping advancements in technology and leverage a thriving creative and cultural economy to drive sustainable growth and development across the continent.

    Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,

    African leadership also demands looking at persistent challenges that are blocking our progress – including financial constraints, security concerns, and infrastructure gaps. Addressing these issues requires ongoing international efforts, peacekeeping initiatives conflict resolution and targeted investments in infrastructure development.

    Addressing these challenges is what the next two days are all about. Unlocking solutions through cocreating, collaborating and leveraging our networks.

    For these discussions will be pivotal – not just for Africa’s future but for shaping the global future we want.

    We meet at a crucial time, just days after the announcement of a new Pact for the Future. This Pact is a renewed commitment to global solidarity. It’s more than just a political document; it’s an opportunity for Africa to address its unique challenges and accelerate progress towards sustainable development
    through stronger international cooperation and equitable resource allocation.

    This includes more support for the SDG Stimulus and badly needed global financial architecture reform to help ease the debt crisis of so many developing countries, including in Africa.

    This year, consistent with our theme “Unstoppable Africa,” GABI will delve into five key areas that will guide our conversations and shape our collective future.

    First, unlocking inclusive growth through trade.

    The African Continental Free Trade Area offers a framework to create the largest single market in the world. We’ll explore how to break down trade barriers, foster economic integration, and build regional value chains – ensuring that no one is left behind, especially women, youth, and marginalized communities.

    Second, making Africa clean energy superpower.  

    With its abundant solar, wind, and hydropower resources, Africa has the potential to be a global hub for renewable energy. In this discussion, we’ll identify pathways to harness this potential and lead the world’s energy transition.

    Third, supercharging Africa’s digital revolution.

    The continent is leaping forward in fintech, e-commerce, and digital education, transforming economies and societies and creating new jobs and sources of prosperity for Africans. We’ll focus on how to accelerate this digital transformation to ensure that all Africans benefit.

    Fourth, sport.

    From football stadiums to the Olympic Games, Africa’s talent is shining on the global stage. But it’s not just about the talent on the field – it’s about leveraging sports as a driver for economic growth, social cohesion, and cultural diplomacy off the field, too.

    Fifth, African creativity for the world.

    We will explore how Africa’s rich cultural heritage and creative talent can drive global impact and economic growth, creating jobs for our youth while showcasing African excellence on the world stage.

    Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,

    Today, Africa’s promise is clearer than ever.

    We have seen what is possible.

    Africa is not just participating in global conversations.

    Africa is leading them.

    As the world confronts challenges, Africa offers solutions – whether in energy transitions, digital transformation, or inclusive trade. GABI is our platform to own this potential and explore how Africa can continue to drive global progress.

    I look forward to the transformative discussions and groundbreaking ideas that will emerge over the next two days.

    Thank you!

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Protection of Humanitarian Workers – Press Conference | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    The head of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), Jagan Chapagain stressed the need to be “equally appalled” by attacks on both national and international humanitarians, reiterating “the humanitarians must be sacred.”

    Chapagain spoke to reporters today (24 Sep) on the sideline of the 79th Session of the General Assembly in New York.

    He said, “Since January, 30 Red Cross and Red Crescent volunteers and staff members had been killed while on duty, while wearing Red Cross and Red Crescent emblems, under the Geneva conventions, they had protective value.”

    Seventeen of those staff members were killed in Palestine, eight were killed in Sudan.

    The IFRC Secretary General added that twenty-seven of them died violently, rather than just an accident.

    Chapagain highlighted that media reports coverage often was overwhelmingly of attacks on international staff instead of national staff.

    He said, “As you know, the national humanitarians have access. They come from the communities. They don’t need visa. They don’t need to travel for days or weeks to be there, and if they come from the communities, lot of time they are trusted. They know the people, they know the people affected. They know the actors on the ground. And for any humanitarian action to be successful, to be efficient, to be effective, the role of these local humanitarians is paramount.”
    Chapagain reiterated, “We need help from the governments and others to make sure that the local humanitarian workers are protected and the people of the institution whose actions lead to the killing of the humanitarians are somehow influenced – to stop that.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EoT6xlkmYTs

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: The Hard Work of Soft Skills: Building A Learning Community | August 29, 2024

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    Do you want to build a learning community within your organization, but don’t know where to start? Are you interested in strategies to improve how your colleagues engage with you, and each other, as you work to infuse evidence-building and evaluation into your organization’s DNA? Are you skeptical about what a learning community can produce, in terms of hard results? In this workshop Sarah Potter, from HRSA’s Office of Planning, Analysis, and Evaluation, shares concrete strategies and lessons learned from her own quest to build a learning community at HRSA.

    —

    U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) | http://www.hhs.gov

    http://www.Twitter.com/HHSGov | http://www.Facebook.com/HHS http://www.Instagram.com/HHSGov
    http://www.LinkedIn.com/company/us-department-of-health-and-human-services

    HHS Privacy Policy: http://www.hhs.gov/Privacy.html

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jGW-tUgxaag

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Ukraine: Death toll keeps rising – UN Chief at the Security Council | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Briefing by United Nations Secretary-General, Mr. António Guterres, on the Maintenance of peace and security of Ukraine – Security Council, 9731th meeting.

    —————————————-

    “Mr. President, Excellencies,

    Two days ago, in the newly agreed Pact for the Future, world leaders reaffirmed their commitment to international law and to the Charter of the United Nations.

    Our Organization is based on the principle of sovereignty of all Member States – within their internationally recognized borders.

    The Charter unequivocally stipulates that all States must refrain from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any other State – and that international disputes must be settled by peaceful means.

    Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 – following the illegal annexation of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and City of Sevastopol a decade ago – is a clear violation of these principles.

    And civilian populations continue to pay the price.

    The death toll keeps rising.

    Nearly 10 million people have fled their homes.

    Systematic attacks against hospitals, schools, supermarkets… are only adding pain and misery.

    Power cuts and infrastructure damage have left millions in the dark.

    I strongly condemn all attacks on civilians and civilian facilities – wherever they occur and whoever is responsible. They all must stop immediately.

    And I remain deeply concerned about the safety, humanitarian needs and basic human rights of people residing in occupied areas.

    Mr. President,

    Despite immense challenges, the United Nations remains fully engaged as the largest international presence in Ukraine.

    This year alone, and together with our partners, we have provided lifesaving aid to more than 6.2 million people.

    But we need the support of the international community.

    15 million people in Ukraine require humanitarian assistance – more than half of them women and girls.

    But – as winter is approaching – less than half of our 2024 Humanitarian Response Plan is funded.

    I urge donors to help us pursue our vital work on the ground.

    We are also assisting the government of Ukraine in its recovery and reconstruction efforts.

    This includes access to basic services and the restoration of Ukraine’s energy production capacities.

    In recent weeks, we have seen a resurgence of inflammatory rhetoric and incidents around nuclear sites – particularly at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, and alarmingly, at the Kursk Nuclear Power Plant in the Russian Federation.

    I commend the International Atomic Energy Agency, including its critical presence in Ukraine’s nuclear sites, to help ensure nuclear safety and security.

    I urge all parties to act responsibly and avoid any declaration or action that could further destabilize an already incendiary situation.

    Mr. President,

    Two and half years since the full-blown invasion of Ukraine, more than 11,000 civilians have been killed.

    The longer this tragic war continues, the greater the risk of escalation and spillover.

    This would not only impact the region, but further deepen global tensions and divisions – at a time when our world desperately needs more cooperation and collective action.

    We must stop the suffering and break the cycle of violence – for the sake of the people of Ukraine, the people of Russia, and the world.

    The Black Sea Initiative and the continued exchanges of prisoners of war serve as reminders that, when there is political will, diplomacy can succeed – even in the darkest hour.

    Today, though the prospects for peace may seem distant, I am inspired by the growing calls for dialogue.

    So let us intensify our efforts to seek peace in Ukraine – a just, comprehensive and sustainable peace, in line with the UN Charter, international law and resolutions of the General Assembly.

    United Nations stands ready to support all efforts towards achieving this goal.

    Thank you”.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Gd58Brn2fA

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UN Chief: G20 Meeting | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Opening remarks by the Secretary-General of the UN, António Guterres 2nd Foreign Ministers meeting of G20 Brasil 2024

    “This is a historic first.

    The G20, the United Nations system and the Bretton Woods institutions and other international financial institutions deal with some of the most important challenges of our time: inequality, financing for development, the climate crisis, the impact of new technologies.

    In all these areas, progress is slipping out of reach as our world becomes more unsustainable, unequal and unpredictable.

    Conflicts are raging, the climate crisis is accelerating, inequalities are growing, and new technologies have unprecedented potential for good – and bad.

    Global institutions must work together – not on parallel or conflicting tracks.

    They must cooperate and collaborate for the good of humanity and the Summit of the Future was an essential first step.

    It has created opportunities and possibilities for reform across the board.

    But without implementation, it will be meaningless.

    The work starts today.

    Excellencies,

    The Pact for the Future is about action in the here and now.

    And G20 countries can act in three specific areas.

    First, finance.

    We need ambitious reforms of the international financial architecture to make it fully representative of today’s global economy, so it can provide strong support to implement the Sustainable Development Goals.

    I commend the leadership of the World Bank and International Monetary Fund for making important progress.

    But the resources available are still dwarfed by the size of the needs.

    Many developing countries are being hit by a double whammy of climate chaos and debt.

    To support low- and middle-income developing countries effectively, multilateral development banks must be bigger, bolder and better.

    We need a far more robust financial safety net to shield countries in a world of frequent shocks.

    Voting rights and decision-making rules should reflect the changing global landscape.

    And access to concessional finance should be based on needs and vulnerabilities, not just on income.

    All parts of the global financial system must work together to reduce the cost of finance and the inequalities that blight our world.

    This demands action on debt – starting with an effective mechanism to deal with debt relief and restructuring.

    As a first step, I welcome the commitment by the International Monetary Fund to review the debt architecture – as set out in the Pact for the Future.
    I look to all G20 countries to push for deep reforms so that global financial institutions reflect today’s world and respond to today’s challenges.

    One of those challenges is global hunger. It is shameful that in our world of plenty, around one person in ten regularly goes without food for an entire day or more – known as severe food insecurity.

    I welcome President Lula and Brazil’s focus on global hunger during the G20 presidency and call on all G20 countries – and all UN Member States – to strengthen efforts to end this affront to our common humanity.

    Excellencies,

    The second area for action is climate.

    We are at a critical moment: a battle to prevent temperatures from rising above the agreed limit of 1.5 degrees.

    Today’s decisions and actions will determine the course of our world for decades to come.

    The climate crisis transcends borders and politics. Climate action cannot be a victim of geopolitical competition.

    Under G20 leadership we will be able to have drastic reductions in fossil fuel production and consumption as an essential element for climate action.

    By 2030, global production and consumption of all fossil fuels must decline by at least thirty per cent – and global renewables capacity must triple.

    This requires OECD countries to phase out coal by 2030 and to fully decarbonize power generation systems by 2035.

    And it means non-OECD countries must phase out coal by 2040.

    I have been strongly advocating for no new coal or upstream oil and gas projects for all G20 nations.

    New national climate plans due next year are an opportunity for countries to align energy strategies and development priorities with climate ambition, taking into account the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities.

    They must also show how each country intends to transition away from fossil fuels, in line with the outcome at COP 28.

    Excellencies,

    There has never been a greater global challenge than the climate crisis.

    There has never been more agreement on the solution: a just transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy.

    And renewable technologies have never been better – or cheaper.

    The obstacle to the renewables revolution is not economics, or a lack of solutions.

    It is mindsets, and lack of vision.

    Those that lead the renewables revolution are already reaping the rewards.” [Excerpt].

    Full remarks: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/sg/statement/2024-09-25/secretary-generals-remarks-meeting-of-g20-foreign-ministers-delivered

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gfbW4_r5_i8

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: ASL Hurricane Helene Messaging 09.25.2024

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    President Biden approved Florida’s request for a pre-landfall emergency declaration, enabling FEMA to provide funding and resources to Florida in advance of Hurricane Helene.
    FEMA is prepared to support state and local response efforts, and has staff, supplies, and equipment in place and ready.
    It is very important to follow guidance from your local officials to evacuate – Helene will bring hurricane-force winds and deadly storm surge and floods.
    Equally important is making sure you finish preparing for the storm today.
    You can find more information and resources on how to stay safe before, during, and after the storm at Ready.gov or in Spanish at Listo.gov

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E8xdTN3qxrA

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Slovenia on on Leadership for Peace – Security Council Media Stakeout | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Comments to the media by Robert Golob, The Prime Minister of the Republic of Slovenia, on the upcoming Leadership for peace: united in respect of the UN Charter, in search of a secure future.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HQ5-d5j8y9U

    MIL OSI Video –