NewzIntel.com

Category: AM-NC

  • MIL-OSI Security: Navy Chaplains Graduate from Pastoral Care Residency Program, Ready to Serve on the Frontlines of Soul Care

    Source: United States Navy (Medical)

    Portsmouth, Va. — In a significant milestone for Navy Medicine and the Chaplain Corps, four Navy chaplains graduated from the prestigious Pastoral Care Residency (PCR) program at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth (NMCP), Sept. 20.
    This program, a joint initiative between the U.S. Department of Defense and Veterans Affairs (VA), has been training Navy and VA chaplains since 1984, equipping them with advanced pastoral care and counseling skills critical to the holistic well-being of patients and military service members.
    The PCR program is a one-year residency accredited by the Association for Clinical Pastoral Education (ACPE). During this intensive training, chaplains complete over 1,600 hours of clinical experience, learning under certified CPE educators from VA Medical Centers. Navy chaplains who complete the residency earn a subspecialty code, which signifies their expertise in pastoral counseling and their capability to work within multidisciplinary medical teams.

    “The residency provides chaplains with the necessary tools to minister to both patients and care providers,” said Capt. William Hlavin, Chaplain for Naval Medical Forces Atlantic and co-executive director of the East Coast PCR program. “This provides them the ability to address not just the body and mind, but also the soul, which contributes to spiritually ready personnel.”

    Graduation marks the culmination of rigorous training that includes both military treatment facility (MTF) and VA medical center rotations. Chaplains are required to complete detailed clinical work, reading reflections, and preparation for board certification. The residency is a prerequisite for board certification as a clinical chaplain, a credential that signifies an even higher level of professionalism and commitment to continuous learning.

    One of the recent graduates, Lt. Cmdr. Reginald Jones stated, “The Pastoral Care Residency is essential for providing holistic care. Doctors can heal the body, psychologists the mind, but chaplains work with the soul. We sit with patients and families in some of their most challenging moments and help them process deep emotional and spiritual pain.”

    This year’s cohort marks another successful chapter in the Navy’s commitment to pastoral care, with new PCR residents already preparing to begin their journey this October. As military and VA hospitals face increasing mental health challenges, the role of clinically trained chaplains is becoming more crucial.

    “This field of study is more needed now than ever,” said Jones. “With mental health issues on the rise, having chaplains trained to do ‘soul work’ can be a game-changer, even aboard ships like destroyers. Sailors face a unique set of challenges, and the ability to address issues of the soul may keep them in the fight.”

    As the PCR program continues to grow, the Navy Chaplain Corps is positioned to meet the spiritual needs of service members, their families, and medical professionals with unparalleled care and professionalism.

    NMFL, headquartered in Portsmouth, Virginia, delivers operationally focused medical expertise and capabilities to meet Fleet, Marine and Joint Force requirements by providing equipment, sustainment and maintenance of medical forces during combat operations and public health crises. NMFL provides oversight for 21 NMRTCs, logistics, and public health and dental services throughout the U.S. East Coast, U.S. Gulf Coast, Cuba, Europe, and the Middle East.

    Navy Medicine – represented by more than 44,000 highly-trained military and civilian health care professionals – provides enduring expeditionary medical support to the warfighter on, below, and above the sea, and ashore.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Minister praises support for families and children In Wolverhampton

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    Minister for Children and Families, Janet Daby, visited Graiseley Family Hub last Wednesday 18 September to see at first hand an area which has successful embedded Family Hubs and the Families First for Children Pathfinder (FFCP), meeting staff along with children and families.

    A Family Hub is a place where children, young people and their families can go when they need support of which eight have been set up in Wolverhampton. 

    The FFCP programme aims to test new ways to reform the children’s social care system, ensuring early support, family help and intervention is available for families facing challenges, helping them to overcome adversity and stay together where possible. 

    Ms Daby said: “I’ve loved my visit here today. It’s been great to meet all the people that help to support families, children and young people: visiting the Family Hub, being able to have a tour and meet a young person today – it’s been delightful.

    “I was impressed with the way in which I was able to meet representatives from the Health Visiting and School Nursing Services, the Police and Midwifery. It was great to hear about the support given to mothers in areas such as breastfeeding. I also liked hearing about what’s being done with the LGBTQ+ community and how diverse needs are being met. 

    The Minister added: “I get a sense that people have job satisfaction, and I observed that people have a genuine need to want to improve families and children’s lives: there was a lot I was impressed with.”

    Councillor Jasbir Jaspal, Cabinet member for Adults and Wellbeing for City of Wolverhampton Council said: “This visit has been a fantastic opportunity to showcase the collaboration between ourselves and the Wolverhampton 0-19 Service, as well as demonstrating how well we’ve managed to achieve frontline support for families.”

    Alison Hinds, Director of Children’s Services, added:” We are always more than willing to host any visits  to be able to share what we believe is the great work we’re doing in this space; I felt very proud of listening to a parent, a carer and a young person who we have been working with speaking with Minister Daby about how they have welcomed the support from the Hub.”

    Rachel King, Deputy Director for the Families First for Children Pathfinder for the council, said: “Minister Daby was really approachable, genuinely interested and supportive of the work we do. Hopefully, what we were able to demonstrate in the short time we had will influence ongoing discussions centrally.”

    Denise Williams, Service Manager, Family Hubs for the council added: “We enjoy sharing the work we do across the city and staff from across the partnership, as well as families, found Minister Daby to be really approachable and supportive of the work that we are doing collectively in the Family Hubs.”

    Catherine Draycott, School Nurse Team Leader, said: “It was lovely today to welcome Minister Daby to Wolverhampton. We were honoured that she took the time to sit with our 0-19 service and ask questions about our service – she could tell how passionate we are about developing these services in Wolverhampton.”

    Marion Astbury, Matron for Health Visiting, added: “It was a real pleasure to speak to the Minister and her colleagues to showcase the fantastic work being done by our staff. There was genuine interest in how we are supporting our families and the challenges we face in delivering our service.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Call for unity in the empowerment of women

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Deputy Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Mmapaseka Steve Letsike has called on nations to unite all efforts and resources for the empowerment of women and girls.

    The Deputy Minister was addressing a side event of the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA79) held in New York on Wednesday.

    She acknowledged that the challenge of women empowerment “is great” with women and girls facing many obstacles.

    “We reiterate the severity of this challenge before us as the state of women’s empowerment leaves little to be desired, and the overall picture is consistent globally, with pockets of excellence in certain areas of development.

    “Women still own a smaller share of global wealth compared to men, with the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) reporting that women owned $72 trillion of global wealth in 2020 which translates to about 17% of the total value of the global wealth held by individuals in that year. 

    “This disparity is linked to factors such as gender pay gaps, unequal access to financial services, and fewer opportunities for leadership roles,” Letsike said.

    She added that although the challenges facing women empowerment are “evolving at an unprecedented pace”, a brighter future for all can be forged by “uniting our efforts and resources”.

    “The Education Plus Initiative stands as a beacon of hope, illuminating the pathway toward empowerment for girls and young women in the fight against the spread of HIV and an increase of AIDS related deaths. 

    “It emphasises the vital importance of equipping women with education and skills, access to finance, security of land tenure, entrepreneurial opportunities and appointment of women to positions of leadership in both the private and public sectors.

    “By doing so, we not only enhance women’s participation in the labour market but also unlock women’s immense potential to drive sustainable economic growth as meaningful participants in the various sectors of the economy.”

    The Deputy Minister added that nations need to adopt an “intersectional lens as we advance policy for the empowerment of women and adolescent girls”.

    “This will ensure that the unique and overlapping experiences of individuals or groups are recognised, thereby allowing us to craft our agenda to be more equitable and inclusive. 

    “As leaders and stakeholders in this transformative journey, we bear a profound responsibility to ensure our institutions and policies are adept at addressing the challenges of both today and tomorrow, particularly for marginalised persons,” Letsike said.

    She called on world leaders to build a better future for women and girls today.
    “As we move forward, let us be inspired by the potential within our youth, especially our girls. They are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are the catalysts of change today. 

    “Together, we can build a world where their dreams are not limited by their circumstances, but rather fuelled by the opportunities we create for them,” Letsike said.

    President Cyril Ramaphosa is leading South Africa’s delegation to the High-Level General Debate of the 79th Session of the General Assembly (UNGA79) in the United States of America. The debate of the UNGA79 is taking place at the United Nations headquarters in New York, from 24 to 30 September 2024. 
    – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: TNPA invites service providers for Liquefied Natural Gas at Ngqura

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    The Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA), in collaboration with Infrastructure South Africa (ISA) and the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), has approached the market for an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).

    This is to encourage interested parties to submit proposals for the envisaged Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) terminal at the Port of Ngqura.

    READ | Port investments to contribute towards SA economy

    The Request For Proposals (RFP) process will see the appointment of a service provider contracted to assess the environmental compliance and sustainability of the proposed LNG terminal. 

    This involves conducting a detailed analysis of ecological and local regulations to determine critical environmental authorisations. These include a seismic survey, marine ecology, climate change impact assessment and socio-economic assessment to support the project.

    The EIA process is carried out in tandem with negotiations of the Terminal Operator Agreement (TOA) between TNPA and the Strategic Fuel Fund (SFF) to build and operate an onshore LNG regasification facility at the Port of Ngqura for 30 years. 

    The appointment of SFF is the outcome of a Section 79 process and directive issued by the former Minister of Transport, in accordance with the National Ports Act of 2005.

    “This milestone is a critical step towards the development of the LNG terminal at the Port of Ngqura. Through its commercial seaports, TNPA is at the forefront of enabling the gas-to-power project pipeline whilst ensuring the security of supply and unlocking global opportunities for sustainable impact,” said Acting TNPA Chief Executive, Phyllis Difeto.

    The Port of Ngqura LNG Terminal is one of 12 priority infrastructure projects announced in March 2024 that hold a Strategic Integrated Project (SIP) status. 

    The triad strategic partnership is fast-tracking the conclusion of the EAI, with the RFP closing on 30 October 2024. This partnership will also see the issuing of the RFP for Prefeasibility Studies by end September 2024.

    “ISA is established to provide strategic, technical and financial advisory support to project sponsors for the planning, preparation, development and implementation of national pipeline projects and strategic integrated projects,” said Mameetse Masemola, the Acting Head of Infrastructure South Africa. 

    “This project is one of the flagship projects which we are proud to support and excited that progress is moving at a good pace,” he said.

    Tender documents can be accessed on: https://www.idc.co.za/tenders/ and https://www.etenders.gov.za/ – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Video: President Biden Hosts a Ukraine Recovery and Reconstruction Event

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

    President Biden hosts an event with world leaders launching a Joint Declaration of Support for Ukrainian Recovery and Reconstruction.

    New York, NY

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T-mL_K_HXMg

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Minister Gwarube commits to stabilising the education system

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Minister of Basic Education Siviwe Gwarube and her deputy, Dr Reginah Mhaule, have committed to take all necessary steps to stabilise the education system given the budgetary constraints affecting provinces.

    The Minister said this while addressing the media on developments regarding budget cuts in the education sector, in Pretoria, on Wednesday. 

    “The Deputy Minister and I have been in constant engagement with provinces to support them during this challenging fiscal environment. We have committed ourselves to doing everything we can to stabilise the system and have appealed to provinces to retain the basket of posts, in order to not compromise education outcomes,” the Minister said. 

    She also moved to appreciate the work that the provinces have been doing around the clock to help the sector get to grips with these challenges. 

    “I have witnessed MECs work tirelessly with their provincial departments to protect teaching and learning in our schools.”

    Challenges

    The briefing comes weeks after several provincial Departments of Education have been vocal about the budgetary pressures they face. 

    These, said the Minister, have been years in the making due to the aggressive budget cuts, economic stagnation and fiscal mismanagement which is now set to impact schools.

    “These budget pressures are not just numbers on a spreadsheet – they translate into fewer teachers, reduced textbooks, and fewer admin support staff, which means teachers spend more time on admin work, thereby reducing learning and teaching time. In essence, the very fabric of our children’s future is under threat.”

    She explained that provinces like the Western Cape have seen the painful decision to reduce the basket of teaching posts for 2025, a move that may result in fewer educators in classrooms. 

    “This may mean larger class sizes, reduced individual attention for learners, and ultimately, a risk to the achievement of quality education outcomes.”

    She added that unfortunately, other provinces throughout the country are in a similar position with many desperately working to find ways of avoiding having to top slice budgets for key services like textbooks, admin support and scholar transport programmes. 

    “We are faced with a pending national crisis, one that affects not just our learners but our teachers, principals, and broader communities.

    “It is crucial to understand that this crisis is not confined to one province or one aspect of the education sector. Every province is grappling with these painful choices.”

    Provincial education departments will in the next two to three years, find it increasingly difficult to fund their existing basket of posts and existing programmes within the available budget, unless measures are taken proactively to mitigate this risk.

    For instance, she said in the 2025/26 financial year, four provincial departments will battle to cover their budgets; in the 2026/27 financial year, five provinces will battle to cover their budgets. In the 2027/28 financial year, seven provinces will not be able to afford their budgets. 

    “Several provinces have preserved the same post basket for the past three academic years, despite learner numbers increasing, while other provinces have decreased their posts in the past three years. It is important to note that these have been cuts in posts but not warm bodies. 

    “Meaning that no person gets retrenched but rather vacancies are not filled,” she said. 

    Increase in learner numbers

    Nationally, the Minister highlighted that the number of learners within the education system has increased by approximately 292,820 over the last five years.

    Learner/Educator Ratios have also steadily increased across most provinces. 
    She explained that an increase in learners’ numbers without increasing the post basket, may affect the quality of teaching which may soon be reflected in the performance of the system.

    Largely, she added that the financial constraints have had the largest impact on educator provisioning, leading to a steady increase in Learner/Educator Ratios in most provincial education departments.

    “Most provincial Education Departments require between R350 million and R3.8 billion [over the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework to fully fund their respective basket of posts].

    “The numbers are staggering. If we continue down this path, projections indicate that most provincial education departments will not be able to maintain their respective basket of posts,” she said. 

    Interventions

    In response to this potential crisis, Minister Gwarube said she convened two special meetings of the Council of Education Ministers (CEM). These meetings brought together education MECs from across the country and they conducted a thorough analysis of the budget challenges in each province. 

    MECs from each province have compiled provisional provincial reports with sobering results.

    “For the first time in a decade, we now have a clearer picture of where the most significant budget pressures lie and how we need to engage treasury in a bid to address the challenges we see.

    “As a result, I have requested an urgent meeting with the Minister of Finance to discuss the matter further. I am grateful to Minister [Enoch] Godongwana for his cooperation and support on this important matter.

    “We are also appreciative of Treasury’s willingness to engage with the Education sector. Ultimately a solution must be found in order for us to protect front line services,” the Minister said. 

    Gwarube has also requested a convening of a political 10X10 meeting between the Minister of Finance and the provincial MECs for Finance, as well as herself and the nine MECs of Education. 

    “We must work together with all 10 treasuries to unlock additional funds to alleviate the pressures facing the education sector, even if it is for the short term, and to prevent further cuts to teaching posts and critical support services like school nutrition and transport.

    “We also need to look at cross-departmental reprioritisation of budgets from departments that have under-performing programmes – ensuring that funding across government is directed to appropriate national priorities,” she said. 

    The Minister concluded that while the sector faces significant challenges, “these are not insurmountable. But they require decisive action and an unwavering commitment to putting education first.”

    Earlier this month, the Department of Basic Education said that the Minister had held meetings with various international partners to reinforce South Africa’s commitment to enhancing the education sector through global collaboration. 

    READ | Minister Gwarube in talks to enhance education sector

    – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Best Squad Is Coming! | U.S. Army

    Source: US Army (video statements)

    About the U.S. Army:

    The Army Mission – our purpose – remains constant: To deploy, fight and win our nation’s wars by providing ready, prompt & sustained land dominance by Army forces across the full spectrum of conflict as part of the joint force.

    Interested in joining the U.S. Army?
    Visit: spr.ly/6001igl5L

    Connect with the U.S. Army online:
    Web: https://www.army.mil
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USarmy/
    X: https://www.twitter.com/USArmy
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usarmy/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/us-army
    #USArmy #Soldiers #Military #Shorts #BestSquad

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rdyEC8szBUY

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: President Biden welcomes PM Kier Starmer of the U.K. to the White House for a bilateral meeting

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

    The U.S. and U.K. will continue to work together to address our most pressing foreign policy issues – including support for Ukraine, the urgent need for a ceasefire deal that will free the hostages and enable increased relief in Gaza, and a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m2Dvw8M9apc

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Derry gets set to host the Carnival of the Dead this Halloween

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Derry gets set to host the Carnival of the Dead this Halloween

    25 September 2024

    As the nights draw in it’s a busy time in the home of Halloween as the final preparations are put in place for the Carnival parade that is the centrepiece of Derry’s world-famous festivities.

    Around 650 performers are expected to take part in the Carnival of the Dead, which will weave its magic through the streets of Derry’s city centre from 7pm on Halloween night, October 31st.

    The participants are drawn from all corners of the community – schools, sports clubs, arts groups and local organisations – brought together by the North West Carnival Initiative (NWCI) who are tasked with delivering this mammoth showcase by Derry City and Strabane District Council.

    The NWCI team are currently out and about helping groups create the spooky costumes and props that really bring the creepy characters of Samhain folklore to life.

    Today, Council’s Festival and Events Manager, Jacqueline Whoriskey, joined NWCI Project Manager Jim Collins, to officially launch the parade in the terrifying tunnels of the Tower Museum. It’s just one of the major highlights in a packed four day programme at Europe’s biggest Halloween celebration, as Jacqueline explained. “Derry Halloween attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world to the city, but it has always been a community-oriented event, and an opportunity to showcase local talent on an international stage,” she said.

    “It’s a fantastic chance for groups from all parts of the community – regardless of age, culture or ethnicity – to display their creativity and talents, alongside some of the fabulous show stopping international acts who feature throughout the festival. It’s an inclusive cross-community celebration, with something for everyone to enjoy and I love seeing so many groups bring some extra magic to Derry Halloween.”

    Workshops are already underway and a number of new groups are getting into the spirit of the event, as Jim explained. “It’s all go at the NWCI workshop and our facilitators will be working closely with the groups across the City and District to develop their own bespoke element of the parade,” he explained

    “It’s a big undertaking but I think that community involvement is so important in the success of the event, and it’s fantastic to see that continuing to grow and develop. It sets it apart from other festivals and gives people here ownership of the event. We always have great fun and it’s a chance to learn new skills and bring new ideas to the carnival parade.”

    Derry Halloween is delivered by Derry City and Strabane District Council and funded by Tourism Northern Ireland and The Executive Office, with support from Ulster University.

    This year the core festival programme will run Monday October 28th – Thursday October 31st with the Awakening the Walled City Trail transforming the town centre from Monday – Wednesday, from 6pm – 9pm, and plenty of festivities taking place throughout Halloween day, October 31st, culminating in the dazzling Halloween Carnival of the Dead Parade at 7pm and fireworks over the Foyle at 8.15pm.

    The parade will weave its way through the City Centre beginning at the Queen’s Quay carpark beside the Council offices, heading up Strand Rd, past the City Hotel then along Queens Quay before returning to the starting point.

    If you would like to take part or volunteer with North West Carnival Initiative, email Jim at [email protected]

    Find out more about the full Derry Halloween programme at derryhalloween.com

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Bookings open for a free extravaganza of science

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    Published: 25 September 2024 at 12:00

    Chelmsford Science Festival to bring fun and educational events to city in October

    Bookings are now open for a host of free, fun and educational events at the 2024 Chelmsford Science Festival, organised by Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) in partnership with Chelmsford City Council and Chelmsford For You.

    This year’s festival is again sponsored by Teledyne and will take place between Tuesday, 22 October and Tuesday, 29 October.
     
    The festival will take on the theme of Our World – Planetary Health, and feature a range of events, activities, and engaging talks from experts.
     
    Two Family Science Days will take place on Saturday, 26 and Sunday, 27 October featuring hands-on, interactive activities for all ages, including a chance to build your own skull, be an architect for a day, and enjoy a Living History of Science Show.
     
    The festival will culminate in a free talk by acclaimed wildlife photographer Hamza Yassin – a former winner of Strictly Come Dancing – who will talk about his life and career on Tuesday, 29 October.
     
    Professor Roderick Watkins, Vice Chancellor of Anglia Ruskin University (ARU), said:

    “Science is all around us from the weather and the buildings we live in, to computer games and the human body, and the Chelmsford Science Festival is an opportunity for ARU to share our world-leading knowledge and facilities with the people of Chelmsford.
     
    “Last year’s event was a fantastic success and once again there promises to be something for everyone taking place across the city. We are grateful to headline sponsors Teledyne and our partners Chelmsford For You and Chelmsford City Council for their support in organising a fantastic festival.”

     
    The full programme of events can be found here https://www.aru.ac.uk/events/chelmsford-science-festival including booking links. While events are free, places must be booked as numbers may be limited.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Sergei Sobyanin congratulated Valentina Matviyenko on her re-election

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Sergei Sobyanin congratulated Valentina Matviyenko on her re-election as Chairperson of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation. He wrote about this inon your telegram channel.

    “The unanimous support of the senators is not at all surprising. Valentina Ivanovna is a patriot of Russia and, what is important, a true professional in her field and a person of action. I am confident that under the leadership of Valentina Ivanovna, the Federation Council will implement many more useful initiatives for the benefit of our people and the country, and the cooperation between the upper house of parliament and Moscow will remain successful and fruitful,” wrote Sergei Sobyanin.

    Source: Sergei Sobyanin’s Telegram channel @mos_sobyanin

    The Mayor of Moscow wished Valentina Matvienko the achievement of all her intended goals.

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

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

    https://vvv.mos.ru/major/themes/11822050/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Implementing Critical Energy Transition Minerals Principles through UNFC and UNRMS

    Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe

    The Principles and Actionable Recommendations for Critical Energy Transition Minerals (CETM) developed by the UN Secretary-General’s Panel set a clear mandate for a global transformation in resource governance.

    As Clovis Freire, Chief, Commodity Research and Analysis Section, at UNCTAD, emphasized during the UNECE Regional Dialogue on Critical Minerals and Just Energy Transition held during the UNECE Sustainable Energy Week 2024 “The CETMs Principles and Actionable Recommendations go beyond mining, covering the full value chain, with the focus on building and reinstating trust between stakeholders, while keeping human rights and environmental protection at the forefront while protecting the environment.” This call to action directs us towards global, equitable, and sustainable resource governance, which can be supported with tools such as the United Nations Framework Classification for Resource (UNFC), the United Nations Resource Management System (UNRMS), and implementing partners such as the International Centres of Excellence on Sustainable Resource Management (ICE-SRMs) playing key roles. These frameworks, already adopted in regions like the EU and Africa, and recommended for Asia-Pacific, align resource management with global sustainability and social equity. 

    Equitable Resource Development 

    The CETM Principles and Actionable Recommendations highlight the need for resource governance to move beyond economic gain. Instead, it must ensure sustainable, transparent, and responsible resource use. This shift requires governance models that integrate social, environmental, and ethical dimensions alongside technical and economic factors. 

    UNFC, UNRMS, and ICE-SRMs are well-positioned to lead this global transformation, supporting a comprehensive framework that aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These governance tools aim to ensure that resource management benefits all, now and in the future, leaving no one behind. 

    UNFC and UNRMS

    UNFC provides a systematic approach for classifying resource-projects, such as the extraction or recovery of critical minerals, based on environmental, social, and economic factors. It lays the foundation for better resource understanding and decision-making. It is also directly linked to CETM Principle 6, which emphasizes that transparency, accountability, and anti-corruption measures are necessary to ensure good governance. Building on this foundation, UNRMS integrates human rights, environmental safeguards, and social justice into resource governance, ensuring alignment with global sustainability goals. 

    However, as challenges like climate change, inequality, and resource depletion intensify, classification and management alone are insufficient. The next step—global resource governance—integrates ethical, social, environmental, and economic dimensions ensuring that resources are governed in ways that promote long-term sustainability and social equity. 

    As Karen Hanghøj, Director of the British Geological Survey and Chair of the UNECE Expert Group on Resource Management, noted: “Governance is essential for our resource future. While classification gives us knowledge, management assures operational efficiency, it is governance that ensures we act responsibly balancing today’s needs with the planet’s long-term survival and prosperity.” 

    The Role of International Centres of Excellence

    ICE-SRMs play a vital role in scaling and operationalizing UNECE’s governance frameworks. These Centres provide technical expertise and regional knowledge, ensuring that UNFC and UNRMS are adopted globally and tailored to local contexts. By fostering collaboration between governments, industries, and civil society, ICE-SRMs promote best practices in resource governance and ensures sustainability, transparency, and fairness in resource use. The ICE-SRMs initiative aligns with and supports implementation of CETM Principle 7, including the recommendation for a High-Level Expert Advisory Group to accelerate benefit-sharing, value addition, and economic diversification in critical minerals value chains as responsible and fair trade, investment, finance, and taxation. 

    Harmonizing Global Resource Governance 

    The UNECE Regional Dialogue underscored a key realization: global resource governance offers the potential to mitigate traditional trade-offs between economic growth, environmental sustainability, and social equity. Historically, resource management has required balancing these priorities—growth versus sustainability or security of supply versus equitable benefit-sharing. Through application of UNFC and UNRMS, these priorities can be harmonized, creating a governance model in which: 

    Aligning Global Efforts: UNECE, the UN Principles, and International Cooperation 

    UNECE’s efforts toward global sustainable resource governance align with other major international frameworks, including the UN Secretary-General’s Panel on CETM Principles and Actionable Recommendations and the EU Critical Raw Materials Act. Both initiatives emphasize transparency, human rights, and sustainability—core tenets of UNECE’s governance frameworks. 

    The EU CRM Act mandates the use of UNFC to promote global cooperation, circularity and resource efficiency strengthening global efforts to achieve a just and sustainable energy transition. 

    The UNECE Regional Dialogue held during the UNECE Sustainable Energy Week 2024 marks a step in the global shift toward sustainable resource governance. With UNFC, UNRMS, and the operational support of the ICE-SRMs, UNECE leading this charge. The goal is clear: to ensure that resources are managed responsibly and equitably, benefiting both present and future generations. 

    To access the report, the list of panel members, and more, please visit: www.un.org/en/climatechange/critical-minerals.   

    For more detailed information on the Secretary-General’s Panel Report and Actionable Recommendations, please visit the official UN Press Release on Critical Energy Transition Minerals. 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Saudi Arabia strengthens WFP’s efforts to treat and prevent malnutrition in Somalia

    Source: World Food Programme

    NEW YORK – The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have signed an agreement to boost nutrition support for the treatment and prevention of malnutrition among thousands of mothers and young children in Somalia.

    Cindy McCain, WFP’s Executive Director and Dr Abdullah Al Rabeeah, Adviser to the Royal Court and Supervisor General of the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief), signed an agreement in New York for a contribution of US$4.5 million from KSrelief to enable WFP to provide specialised nutritious foods to more than 57,300 malnourished pregnant and breastfeeding women as well as around 122,850 children under the age of two.  

    While the 2024 rainy season (April–June) improved pasture and water availability in pastoral areas, it also triggered flash floods which forced people from their homes, damaged crops and critical infrastructure, and shattered the livelihoods of thousands of people still struggling to recover from the country’s longest recorded drought.

    “Recurring climate extremes such as droughts and floods are devastating the livelihoods of thousands of people and driving up the price of essential food commodities beyond the reach of many,” said El-Khidir Daloum, WFP’s Country Director in Somalia. “This generous contribution from KSrelief will enable WFP to continue supporting the nutrition needs of thousands of vulnerable mothers and children in Somalia.”

    In Somalia, an estimated 1.6 million children are expected to face acute malnutrition until July 2025, with 403,000 of them at risk of severe malnutrition, according to the latest analysis by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC).

    A funding shortfall of US$200 million has forced WFP in Somalia to make difficult decisions about who receives food assistance and who goes without. In June, WFP supported 1.2 million people – only 35 per cent of those then facing crisis-levels of hunger (IPC3+). 

    Without additional resources to address both the emergency and long-term needs of those affected by the climate crisis, millions of people could be forced to take desperate measures to survive.

    #                 #                   #

    The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.

    Follow us on Twitter @WFP_Media @WFPSomalia @WFP_Africa @GccWfp

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. International Investment Position, 2nd Quarter 2024

    Source: US Bureau of Economic Analysis

    The U.S. net international investment position, the difference between U.S. residents’ foreign financial assets and liabilities, was –$22.52 trillion at the end of the second quarter of 2024, according to statistics released today by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (chart 1). Assets totaled $36.00 trillion, and liabilities were $58.52 trillion (chart 2). At the end of the first quarter, the net investment position was –$21.29 trillion (revised). The net investment position and components of assets and liabilities are presented in table 1.

    The –$1.23 trillion change in the net investment position from the first quarter to the second quarter came from net financial transactions of –$299.8 billion and net other changes in position, such as price and exchange-rate changes, of –$930.5 billion (table 2).

    Price changes of –$616.9 billion reflected U.S. stock price increases that exceeded foreign stock price increases, which raised the market value of U.S. liabilities more than U.S. assets.

    Exchange-rate changes of –$214.8 billion reflected foreign currency depreciation against the U.S. dollar, which lowered the value of U.S. assets more than U.S. liabilities in dollar terms.

    U.S. assets increased by $173.2 billion to a total of $36.00 trillion at the end of the second quarter, mainly attributable to a $112.8 billion increase in financial derivatives (chart 3). The increase in financial derivatives mostly reflected increases in single-currency interest rate contracts.

    Portfolio investment and direct investment assets (the two largest categories of assets) changed little in the second quarter, as financial transactions and foreign stock price increases were mostly offset by foreign currency depreciation against the U.S. dollar that lowered the value of foreign-currency-denominated assets in dollar terms (table 2).

    U.S. liabilities increased by $1.40 trillion to a total of $58.52 trillion at the end of the second quarter, driven mainly by U.S. stock price increases that raised the market value of portfolio investment and direct investment liabilities (chart 4). Financial transactions of $391.1 billion, notably foreign purchases of U.S. stocks and long-term debt securities, also contributed to the overall increase in U.S. liabilities.

    Portfolio investment liabilities increased by $666.4 billion to $30.89 trillion, and direct investment liabilities increased by $568.2 billion to $16.64 trillion, mostly attributable to U.S. stock price increases (table 2).

    Table A. Updates to First-Quarter 2024 International Investment Position Aggregates
    [Trillions of dollars, not seasonally adjusted]

      Preliminary estimates Revised estimates
    U.S. net international investment position –21.28 –21.29
       U.S. assets 35.78 35.83
       U.S. liabilities 57.06 57.12

    U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis

    Next release: December 27, 2024, at 8:30 a.m. EST
    U.S. International Investment Position, 3rd Quarter 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs steps up enforcement action against counterfeit goods activities with approach of National Day Golden Week of Mainland (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         â€‹Hong Kong Customs mounted a special enforcement operation in Mong Kok between September 20 and today (September 25) to combat the sale of counterfeit goods and seized about 8 500 items of suspected counterfeit goods with an estimated market value of about $3.6 million.

         Customs earlier conducted patrols and discovered some fixed-pitch hawker stalls selling suspected counterfeit goods in Mong Kok. After investigations, Customs officers took enforcement action during the abovementioned period and raided 25 fixed-pitch hawker stalls on Tung Choi Street and a nearby upstairs counterfeit goods storage. A batch of suspected counterfeit goods, including handbags, wallets and headphones, was seized.

         During the operation, Customs arrested two women, aged 35 and 41. An investigation is ongoing.

         With the National Day Golden Week of the Mainland approaching, Customs will continue to step up inspection and enforcement to vigorously combat different kinds of counterfeit goods activities in order to safeguard consumer rights at full strength.

         Customs appeals to consumers to purchase goods at reputable shops and to check with the trademark owners or their authorised agents if the authenticity of a product is in doubt. Customs also reminds traders not to sell counterfeit goods and to be cautious and prudent in merchandising since selling counterfeit goods is a serious crime and offenders are liable to criminal sanctions.

         Under the Trade Descriptions Ordinance, any person who sells or possesses for sale any goods with a forged trademark commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $500,000 and imprisonment for five years.

         Members of the public may report any suspected counterfeiting activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 2545 6182 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).   

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Chêne-Bourg: densification of a building zone on the banks of the Seymaz

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

    Source: Switzerland – Canton Government of Geneva in French

    The Council of State responded to a consultation of the Federal Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications (DETEC) on the partial revision of the ordinances on road signs (OSR) and regulating admission to road traffic (OAC).

    The revision of the OSR concerns in particular the integration of concrete technical standards developed by private law organisations into federal law in order to make them legally binding. It is accompanied by two new ordinances: one on the indication of direction at junctions and interchanges on motorways and semi-motorways, the other on special markings. It also implements the Motion 17.3952 Bühler “Allow bilingual signage on motorways”. In addition, it allows for the imposition of a fine on motorways and semi-motorways, not only for unauthorized overtaking on the right by pulling out and then merging, but also for unauthorized overtaking on the right.

    The Geneva government generally approves the proposed changes. However, it is asking that certain characteristics of construction site and hiking signage be coordinated with the new version of the OSR and that it be adapted in order to harmonize the use of paint on cycle paths or lanes to improve cyclist safety.

    Regarding the revision of the OAC, the Council of State expresses certain reservations, in particular concerning the traffic theory course (CTC). It opposes the obligation to follow this course before the basic theoretical examination, considering that the CTC takes on its full meaning when the student is directly confronted with the reality of the road.

    For further media information: Mr. Santiago Achi, Technical Manager, Arve-Lac Regional Directorate, OCT, DSM, T. 022 546 78 94.

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Decisions of the Grand Council – meeting of September 24

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

    Source: Swiss Canton of Vaud – news in French

    Breadcrumbs

    vd.ch
    News
    Decisions of the Grand Council – meeting of September 24

    Published on 25.09.2024

    Every Tuesday, the 150 members of the cantonal parliament elected by the people meet. The debates are public and online. The decisions of the session of June 25 are online.

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Weekly press release from the Council of State of September 25, 2024

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

    Source: Switzerland – Canton Government of Geneva in French

    The Council of State responded to a consultation of the Federal Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications (DETEC) on the partial revision of the ordinances on road signs (OSR) and regulating admission to road traffic (OAC).

    The revision of the OSR concerns in particular the integration of concrete technical standards developed by private law organisations into federal law in order to make them legally binding. It is accompanied by two new ordinances: one on the indication of direction at junctions and interchanges on motorways and semi-motorways, the other on special markings. It also implements the Motion 17.3952 Bühler “Allow bilingual signage on motorways”. In addition, it allows for the imposition of a fine on motorways and semi-motorways, not only for unauthorized overtaking on the right by pulling out and then merging, but also for unauthorized overtaking on the right.

    The Geneva government generally approves the proposed changes. However, it is asking that certain characteristics of construction site and hiking signage be coordinated with the new version of the OSR and that it be adapted in order to harmonize the use of paint on cycle paths or lanes to improve cyclist safety.

    Regarding the revision of the OAC, the Council of State expresses certain reservations, in particular concerning the traffic theory course (CTC). It opposes the obligation to follow this course before the basic theoretical examination, considering that the CTC takes on its full meaning when the student is directly confronted with the reality of the road.

    For further media information: Mr. Santiago Achi, Technical Manager, Arve-Lac Regional Directorate, OCT, DSM, T. 022 546 78 94.

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Signalling and admission to road traffic: support with reservations for the modification of the ordinances

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

    Source: Switzerland – Canton Government of Geneva in French

    The Council of State responded to a consultation of the Federal Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications (DETEC) on the partial revision of the ordinances on road signs (OSR) and regulating admission to road traffic (OAC).

    The revision of the OSR concerns in particular the integration of concrete technical standards developed by private law organisations into federal law in order to make them legally binding. It is accompanied by two new ordinances: one on the indication of direction at junctions and interchanges on motorways and semi-motorways, the other on special markings. It also implements the Motion 17.3952 Bühler “Allow bilingual signage on motorways”. In addition, it allows for the imposition of a fine on motorways and semi-motorways, not only for unauthorized overtaking on the right by pulling out and then merging, but also for unauthorized overtaking on the right.

    The Geneva government generally approves the proposed changes. However, it is requesting that certain characteristics of construction site and hiking signage be coordinated with the new version of the OSR and that it be adapted in order to harmonize the use of paint on cycle paths or lanes to improve cyclist safety.

    Regarding the revision of the OAC, the Council of State expresses certain reservations, in particular concerning the traffic theory course (CTC). It opposes the obligation to follow this course before the basic theoretical examination, considering that the CTC takes on its full meaning when the student is directly confronted with the reality of the road.

    For further media information: Mr. Santiago Achi, Technical Manager, Arve-Lac Regional Directorate, OCT, DSM, T. 022 546 78 94.

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Third allocation 2024 of the cantonal share of the profits of the Loterie romande

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

    Source: Switzerland – Canton Government of Geneva in French

    The Council of State responded to a consultation of the Federal Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications (DETEC) on the partial revision of the ordinances on road signs (OSR) and regulating admission to road traffic (OAC).

    The revision of the OSR concerns in particular the integration of concrete technical standards developed by private law organisations into federal law in order to make them legally binding. It is accompanied by two new ordinances: one on the indication of direction at junctions and interchanges on motorways and semi-motorways, the other on special markings. It also implements the Motion 17.3952 Bühler “Allow bilingual signage on motorways”. In addition, it allows for the imposition of a fine on motorways and semi-motorways, not only for unauthorized overtaking on the right by pulling out and then merging, but also for unauthorized overtaking on the right.

    The Geneva government generally approves the proposed changes. However, it is asking that certain characteristics of construction site and hiking signage be coordinated with the new version of the OSR and that it be adapted in order to harmonize the use of paint on cycle paths or lanes to improve cyclist safety.

    Regarding the revision of the OAC, the Council of State expresses certain reservations, in particular concerning the traffic theory course (CTC). It opposes the obligation to follow this course before the basic theoretical examination, considering that the CTC takes on its full meaning when the student is directly confronted with the reality of the road.

    For further media information: Mr. Santiago Achi, Technical Manager, Arve-Lac Regional Directorate, OCT, DSM, T. 022 546 78 94.

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Yes to strengthening higher vocational training, but not to the detriment of other sectors

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

    Source: Switzerland – Canton Government of Geneva in French

    The Council of State responded to a consultation of the Federal Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications (DETEC) on the partial revision of the ordinances on road signs (OSR) and regulating admission to road traffic (OAC).

    The revision of the OSR concerns in particular the integration of concrete technical standards developed by private law organisations into federal law in order to make them legally binding. It is accompanied by two new ordinances: one on the indication of direction at junctions and interchanges on motorways and semi-motorways, the other on special markings. It also implements the Motion 17.3952 Bühler “Allow bilingual signage on motorways”. In addition, it allows for the imposition of a fine on motorways and semi-motorways, not only for unauthorized overtaking on the right by pulling out and then merging, but also for unauthorized overtaking on the right.

    The Geneva government generally approves the proposed changes. However, it is asking that certain characteristics of construction site and hiking signage be coordinated with the new version of the OSR and that it be adapted in order to harmonize the use of paint on cycle paths or lanes to improve cyclist safety.

    Regarding the revision of the OAC, the Council of State expresses certain reservations, in particular concerning the traffic theory course (CTC). It opposes the obligation to follow this course before the basic theoretical examination, considering that the CTC takes on its full meaning when the student is directly confronted with the reality of the road.

    For further media information: Mr. Santiago Achi, Technical Manager, Arve-Lac Regional Directorate, OCT, DSM, T. 022 546 78 94.

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Video: Secretary Blinken hosts a Ministerial on the Los Angeles Declaration – 9:00 AM

    Source: United States of America – Department of State (video statements)

    Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken hosts a Ministerial on the Los Angeles Declaration on Migration and Protection in New York City, New York, on September 25, 2024.

    ———-
    Under the leadership of the President and Secretary of State, the U.S. Department of State leads America’s foreign policy through diplomacy, advocacy, and assistance by advancing the interests of the American people, their safety and economic prosperity. On behalf of the American people we promote and demonstrate democratic values and advance a free, peaceful, and prosperous world.

    The Secretary of State, appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate, is the President’s chief foreign affairs adviser. The Secretary carries out the President’s foreign policies through the State Department, which includes the Foreign Service, Civil Service and U.S. Agency for International Development.

    Get updates from the U.S. Department of State at www.state.gov and on social media!
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/statedept
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/StateDept
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/statedept
    Flickr: https://flickr.com/photos/statephotos/

    Subscribe to the State Department Blog: https://www.state.gov/blogs
    Watch on-demand State Department videos: https://video.state.gov/
    Subscribe to The Week at State e-newsletter: http://ow.ly/diiN30ro7Cw

    State Department website: https://www.state.gov/
    Careers website: https://careers.state.gov/
    White House website: https://www.whitehouse.gov/
    Terms of Use: https://state.gov/tou

    #StateDepartment #DepartmentofState #Diplomacy

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KATQApQXvc4

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Condolences to family of victim affected by freezing weather conditions

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    The Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities Sindisiwe Chikunga has extended her heartfelt condolences to the family of the woman who lost her life in adverse weather conditions that hit parts of the Free State and KwaZulu-Natal provinces.

    “We are deeply saddened to learn that a woman lost her life to hypothermia due to these unprecedented weather conditions. She was a passenger in a taxi travelling from Johannesburg to KwaZulu-Natal,” the Minister said in a statement on Wednesday.

    The 39-year-old woman died on Saturday while trapped in the blizzard that engulfed the N3 between Van Reenen’s Pass, connecting KwaZulu-Natal and the Free State.

    This was confirmed by paramedic services, Midlands EMS [emergency medical services] Rescue Medics, in a statement.

    According to the medical service, the Midlands EMS Howick crews, along with Midlands EMS Rescue Medics, were dispatched to a shopping centre in Merrivale for a person who had collapsed after being exposed to severe cold overnight, while in a taxi stuck in traffic in the snow. 

    READ | Heavy snowfall on N3 claims life of a 39-year-old woman

    Chikunga commended the exemplary selflessness and solidarity shown by South Africans who came to each other’s aid in what were life-threatening circumstances.

    She also added that South Africa is experiencing unusual climate change related incidents, marked by an increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, as well as rising mortality rates.

    The severity of these events continues to disproportionately affect marginalised communities—those who often lack the resources to cope—most of whom are women and persons with disabilities.

    “While this is a global phenomenon, the impact of climate change related disasters is not uniform. Recent research published by the World Bank shows that “across the globe, women and persons with disabilities experience mortality rates up to four times higher in natural disasters than those without.

    “We express our condolences to those who have lost their loved ones, and we urge all South Africans to closely monitor weather reports to avoid areas projected to experience extreme weather conditions,” the Minister said.

     In his address at the National Heritage Day celebrations on Tuesday, Acting President Paul Mashatile emphasised the need to recognise the growing impact of climate change on the nation’s well-being and cultural heritage. 

    Mashatile urged citizens to be mindful of how climate change threatens both livelihoods and cultural traditions.
    The Acting President expressed his honour in addressing the nation on Heritage Day but noted that celebrations were overshadowed by severe weather affecting parts of KwaZulu-Natal, the Eastern Cape, and the Free State.

    “It is a great honour and privilege to address you at this significant occasion as we celebrate our country’s Heritage Day. Unfortunately, as we were looking forward to this day, some parts of our country, which include Kwa-Zulu Natal, Eastern Cape and Free State, were impacted by severe weather conditions, exacerbated by climate change,” he said at the celebrations held in Ficksburg, Free State.

    READ | Let’s be alive to the impact of climate change – Acting President Mashatile

    Meanwhile, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) said the country is set to experience a mix of warm and cool temperatures in the coming days, with a significant drop in temperatures and even light snowfall expected later this month.

    This after the weekend’s freezing temperatures and snowfall in some parts of the country caused havoc on the roads, resulting in one fatality.   

    READ | SA Weather Service forecasts warm week followed by light snow

    –SAnews.gov.za
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: With the support of Rosneft, the Oceans Day festival was held in Sakhalin

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The seventh environmental festival “Oceans Day” was held in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk with the support of the Sakhalin-1 project. This environmental education event is timed to coincide with World Maritime Day and is traditionally celebrated at the end of September. Festival visitors were told what everyone can do to protect the fragile marine ecosystem.

    The world ocean is one of the largest ecosystems on the planet, a source of oxygen and an absorber of carbon dioxide. 70% of the Earth’s surface is covered with water. More than 2 million species of various organisms live in rivers, lakes, seas and oceans: invertebrates, fish, mammals, birds and many others.

    Festival guests took part in various educational stations, where they learned the “ABCs of Marine Mammals”, were able to draw their own whale, learn about the impact of human activity on the animal habitat and how to protect the sea from waste. Particularly popular were the stations “Inhabitants of the Deep Sea” and “Getting to Know the Seals”, “Pacific Eagle”, where you could learn about rare species of fish, mammals and birds of the Pacific coast of Russia.

    Environmental care is an integral part of Rosneft’s corporate culture and social responsibility. The Company’s activities are based on the principle of preserving a favorable environment and biological diversity in the regions of its presence. A number of initiatives are aimed at studying and restoring rare species of animals, including conducting environmental education events and developing a responsible attitude to the use of natural resources.

    The Okhotsk Sea gray whale population monitoring program has been implemented in the northeast of Sakhalin Island for 27 years. Scientists note that the population is growing and today there are already more than 350 individuals. Every year, the number of mammals is counted, their behavior is observed, and the food supply is studied, photo-identification studies and acoustic monitoring are carried out. The studies are carried out jointly with the leading scientific organizations of the country.

    In 2024, the Company developed a new research program, which received positive reviews from experts at the Russian Ministry of Natural Resources. Scientists, together with the Company’s relevant specialists, will monitor gray whales throughout the navigation period until the Sea of Okhotsk is covered with ice and the whales head to their wintering grounds.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft September 25, 2024

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

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

    http://vvv.rosneft.ru/press/nevs/item/220835/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FACT SHEET: During Climate Week, Biden-⁠ Harris Administration Announces Continued Progress on the American Climate  Corps

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    American Climate Corps Has Already Put 15,000 Young Americans to Work as Part of Its Inaugural Cohort
    Environmental Protection Agency and AmeriCorps Announce a New Environmental Justice Climate Corps; the Department of Housing and Urban Development Joins the Interagency American Climate Corps Initiative
    Since taking office, President Biden has delivered on the most ambitious climate, clean energy, conservation, and environmental justice agenda in history – signing into law the largest investment in climate action ever, protecting more than 42 million acres of public lands and waters, creating good-paying clean energy jobs, and establishing the Justice40 Initiative, which sets the goal that 40 percent of the overall benefits from certain federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution.
    As part of his historic commitment to tackle the climate crisis, President Biden launched the American Climate Corps (ACC) to mobilize the next generation of clean energy, conservation, and climate resilience workers, with a goal to put 20,000 young people to work in the clean energy and climate resilience economy in the initiative’s first year. Today, in celebration of Climate Week, the White House is announcing that more than 15,000 young Americans have been put to work in high-quality, good-paying clean energy and climate resilience workforce training and service opportunities through the American Climate Corps – putting the program on track to reach President Biden’s goal of 20,000 members in the program’s first year ahead of schedule.
    Across the country, American Climate Corps members are working on projects to tackle the climate crisis, including restoring coastal ecosystems, strengthening urban and rural agriculture, investing in clean energy and energy efficiency, improving disaster and wildfire preparedness, and more. The American Climate Corps is giving a diverse new generation of young people the tools to fight the impacts of climate change today and the skills to join the clean energy and climate-resilience workforce of tomorrow.
    Today, the Biden-Harris Administration is making several additional announcements:
    The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and AmeriCorps are Announcing a New Environmental Justice Climate Corps, which will put more than 250 American Climate Corps members to work over the next three years providing technical assistance to community-based organizations in environmental justice communities – helping them access resources to carry out locally driven projects that reduce pollution, increase community climate resilience, improve public health and safety, and build community capacity to address environmental and climate justice challenges. Environmental Justice Climate Corps members will be paid a living allowance and reimbursed for selected living expenses. In total, this allowance is equivalent to receiving more than $25 per hour throughout their year of service. They will also obtain the benefits of AmeriCorps VISTA service—including the Segal AmeriCorps Education Award, which is valued at $7,395 in FY24, and streamlined pathways into certain federal jobs—and gain mentorship and professional development opportunities. Applications for the Environmental Justice Climate Corps will open in early 2025, with a goal for its first cohort to start later that year.The partnership with EPA is AmeriCorps’ largest environmental partnership in the agency’s history and will build on the success of three other partnerships announced under the American Climate Corps: AmeriCorps NCCC Forest Corps, Working Lands Climate Corps and Energy Communities AmeriCorps, which together will support more than 500 new ACC positions over the coming years.
    The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is Joining the ACC Interagency Initiative. Joining the seven initial signatories of the December 2023 ACC Memorandum of Understanding, today HUD will become the eighth federal agency member of the ACC Interagency Initiative. This step brings the ACC to the communities HUD serves, building upon the Department’s commitment to using low- and zero-carbon energy and supporting communities to increase their resilience, advance environmental justice, and create good jobs for residents.
    The American Climate Corps is Fostering Federal-State Partnerships by establishing a partnership with state service commissions, which support national service in states across the country, to grow the number of state climate corps and strengthen existing state climate corps programs. Together, the American Climate Corps, state-level climate corps programs, and state national service leadership are committed to strengthening state climate corps, supporting impactful program implementation, and leveraging state and local partnerships to scale climate corps efforts across the country. To date, 14 states have launched their own state-based climate corps programs, including New Jersey who just today announced the creation of the New Jersey Climate Corps. 
    American Climate Corps Will Host a Virtual Job Fair. The American Climate Corps is working to ensure that its members have a pathway to good-paying jobs following their terms of service, which is why later this year, ACC will host a virtual job fair for current and past members to learn about high-quality career opportunities in the clean energy and climate resilience economy. The virtual job fair will bring together the private sector, labor unions, and the public sector, including Federal agencies, to showcase career pathways available to ACC members.
    Today’s announcements build on a year of successful program implementation, including:
    Launch of the American Climate Corps Tour. This fall, to showcase ACC members’ important work across the nation, the American Climate Corps and senior Biden-Harris Administration officials is embarking on a national tour and visiting ten locations to highlight ACC members’ impact in communities across the country.The tour is making stops at a range of ACC project sites and featuring remarks by representatives of the Biden-Harris Administration and other Federal, state, and local elected officials. Visits include ACC member swearing-in ceremonies, service projects, and roundtables with ACC members.
    Creation of the American Climate Corps Storytellers Project. Inspired by the Works Progress Administration’s Federal Art Project, the ACC launched the Storytellers Project, engaging artists and storytellers to capture the impact of President Biden’s American Climate Corps.The ACC Storytellers Project solicited applications from artists across the country. Ten accomplished storytellers were selected to document the impact of the American Climate Corps in communities across the country through photographs, videos, and other visual art mediums. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Rosneft develops information modeling technologies

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Rosneft Research Institute in Ufa presented new solutions for 3D modeling in the oil and gas industry at the conference “Provision of engineering services using information modeling technologies”. The event was attended by over 180 specialists from leading specialized companies from different cities of Russia.

    Rosneft is one of the leaders in the development of 3D design. Hundreds of objects have been designed in the Company using information modeling technologies. The information model helps to confirm the possibility of safe operation. Subsequently, the digital project is used at the stages of reconstruction and technical re-equipment of objects.

    Specialists from the Ufa Institute presented an updated unified catalog of 3D products to conference participants. Today, the digital database contains 277 thousand 3D products for design: from complex equipment to the simplest parts. Rosneft design institutes use the catalog when developing structures, plant sites, pipelines and other industrial facilities. Ready-made solutions significantly reduce time and increase design efficiency. The Institute’s IT specialists regularly update the catalog taking into account changes in industry documents.

    The conference also presented the results of applying information technologies to real objects. Including one of the largest 3D projects of the institute – the preliminary gas treatment unit (UPPG) at the Barsukovskoye field of Rosneft. The model includes more than 90 structures on an area of over 250 thousand square meters, which is comparable to the size of a populated area. Elements of the information model also added to the database of the unified catalog of the Company.

    For the first time, the organizers held a competition on information modeling within the framework of the conference. Representatives of design and scientific institutes competed in developing three-dimensional digital projects based on the received task. In order to prepare specialized specialists with 3D competencies, the Rosneft Scientific Institute in Ufa is developing specialized training programs. More than 100 specialists of the Company undergo training annually.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft September 25, 2024

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

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

    http://vvv.rosneft.ru/press/nevs/item/220836/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Moscow Unveils New Tram Line on Sergey Radonezhsky Street

    Source: Moscow Transport

    The opening of a new tram line on Sergey Radonezhsky Street took place yesterday in the capital, which was a significant step forward in the development of the city’s public transport network. A new route – tram No. 2 – appeared on the line, connecting six districts of Moscow and becoming a convenient alternative for residents of the south-eastern, eastern and central districts of the city.

    Important benefits of opening a new tram line:

    • Faster, More Efficient Travel for Hundreds of Thousands:

    The newly launched Tram No. 2 route spans from 3rd Vladimirskaya Street to Kursky Train Station, offering a smooth and efficient journey in just 30 minutes. Previously, the same trip required approximately 40 minutes with two transfers. The new line is expected to benefit nearly 700,000 residents, providing them with convenient and direct access to key transportation hubs and social amenities.

    • Enhanced Connectivity and Accessibility:

    The tram line seamlessly integrates with the city’s existing transportation infrastructure, providing convenient transfers to 15 different stations, including Kursky Train Station, Moscow Central Diameter lines 2 and 4 (MCD-2, MCD-4), and metro stations Ploshchad Iliicha, Rimskaya, and others. Future plans include integrating the line with the Serp i Molot Moscow City Railway Station.

    • Modern Tram for a Modern City:

    The line is served by seven state-of-the-art Vityaz-Moskva trams, equipped with modern features including a low floor for easy accessibility, climate control, and charging stations. These trams operate on a 10-minute interval, ensuring frequent and efficient service.

    • Improved Urban Design:

    The introduction of the new tram line has also revitalized Sergey Radonezhsky Street. The even-numbered side now features a dedicated pedestrian walkway, providing a comfortable route for residents from their homes to the metro station and public transport stops. The roadway and sidewalks have been modernized, and the street is adorned with new lighting, navigation signs, and elevated tram stops.

    • Quiet and Efficient Travel:

    The construction of the new tram line incorporates innovative technology, featuring seamless track laying, rubber seals, and specialized vibration-damping mats. These design elements ensure quiet and smooth operation, enhancing the passenger experience. The 3.9-kilometer track is also separated from the roadway, further promoting safety and efficiency.

    • Investing in the Future of Public Transportation:

    This new tram line represents a significant investment in Moscow’s public transportation infrastructure and demonstrates the city’s commitment to providing efficient and accessible transport options for its residents. As the city celebrates the 125th anniversary of the Moscow tram, this new addition solidifies the tram’s role as an integral part of the city’s transport system

    The opening of the new tram line and the launch of Tram No. 2 provide residents with new, convenient routes for their daily commutes. The new line connects nine different railway lines, including metro, MCD, and MCC, and integrates over 200 social amenities, including schools, hospitals, and shopping centers, further enhancing accessibility for residents,- said Maksim Liksutov, Moscow’s Deputy Mayor for Transport and Industry.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Higher School of Economics student wins grand prize at Golden Bee Biennale

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    The Golden Bee Global Biennale of Graphic Design is the main national poster competition and one of the largest events in the world dedicated to this art. This year, the Grand Prix of the Biennale was won by Sonya Kim, a fourth-year student of the profile “Communication design”She became the youngest winner in the competition’s history.

    In the 32 years of the Golden Bee’s existence, Russian designers have won the Grand Prix only twice – Anton Logvin in 1992, and then Igor Gurovich in 2012. Now Sonya Kim has done it for the third time! We would like to note with particular pride that all the winners today are associated with the HSE School of Design.

    Sonya Kim’s posters are dedicated to the play “Adler’s Room”, staged by Lera Surkova at the Yermolova Theatre. The action revolves around a hero suffering from dissociative identity disorder. Each sheet of Sonya Kim’s work is focused on this split – a person looks at us from everywhere, as if assembled from many of those others who coexist in him.

    The curator of the winning project was Igor Gurovich, winner of the Golden Bee Grand Prix in 2012. “Sonya is a smart and very independent designer,” he says. “It was very interesting to discuss the project with her, its idea and implementation strategies. Her victory is well-deserved. I am very happy!”

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

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

    http://desizhn.hse.ru/nevs/4228

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 43rd UN/CEFACT Forum | UNECE

    Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe

    This Forum will focus on fostering sustainable, transparent and resilient value chains, and enhancing digital connectivity for climate-smart trade and transport corridors. It will also aim to make progress on reviewing the UN/CEFACT standard development and maintenance process, with the goal to align it with the modern needs of trade actors operating along global supply chains.
     

    The 43rd UN/CEFACT Forum will aim at reinvigorating partnerships, demonstrating the impact and relevance of key UN/CEFACT instruments, and making progress on substantive deliverables. It will include sessions featuring interactive thematic discussions, roundtables and working meetings with the engagement of experts from both the public and private sectors, allowing to share experiences and perspectives on the Forum’s themes.

    Access the list of previous fora >…>…>…>

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: ASIA/LEBANON – Appeal from the Maronite Patriarch: the UN Security Council should intervene to impose negotiations between the parties in conflict

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Italy –

    Source: The Holy See in Italian

    Wednesday, September 25, 2024

    Beirut (Agenzia Fides) – Faced with the “national disaster” affecting Lebanon, Maronite Patriarch Boutros Bechara Rai appeals to the UN Security Council to “intervene effectively” to force the parties in conflict to “stop the war and begin negotiations”. The appeal, broadcast through the official communication networks of the Maronite Patriarchate, calls for unity of “the entire Lebanese family” and expresses gratitude for all those who open their homes and schools to the displaced and work in hospitals to help the wounded. The Lebanese cardinal also calls on the Lebanese Parliament to urgently elect a new President of the Republic and put an end to the political-institutional crisis that has lasted for years. And let us pray to God “concludes the Patriarch in his brief appeal” so that He may inspire everyone on the path to achieving a just and inclusive peace”. (GV) (Agenzia Fides 25/9/2024) Share:

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

    MIL Translation OSI