NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján, Leger Fernández Welcome $8.6 Million Federal Investment for New Mexico’s Digital Equity Plan

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Senator for New Mexico Ben Ray Luján
    Multi-Million Dollar Investment Made Possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law
    Santa Fe, N.M. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Chair of the Subcommittee on Communications, Media, and Broadband, and U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.) welcomed $8,673,975 to implement key digital equity initiatives in New Mexico. This funding comes from the $1.44 billion State Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program, one of three Digital Equity Act grant programs created by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that Senator Luján and Representative Leger Fernández helped pass into law.
    This funding is part of the “Internet for All” initiative, a key component of the Biden-Harris administration’s “Investing in America” agenda. New Mexico will use this funding to implement its digital equity plan, which outlines how the state will empower individuals and communities with the tools and skills necessary to benefit from meaningful access to affordable, reliable, high-speed Internet service. 
    “In today’s world, a reliable broadband connection is not a luxury, but rather a necessity for everyday life,” said Luján. “This more than $8.6 million investment by the NTIA will deliver critical broadband connection and boost digital literacy in communities across New Mexico. I’m proud to have helped deliver this funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and will continue to work to close the digital divide once and for all.”
    “We know in New Mexico that we are all connected by history, family, culture and herencias. However, in today’s world, we need to also be connected digitally. When we invest in digital equity, we are investing in education, healthcare, and economic opportunity for every family across New Mexico regardless of their income or background,” said Leger Fernández. “This $8.6 million in investments made possible by our Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will help bridge the digital divide, making sure that our rural, Tribal, and communities of opportunity can fully participate in today’s economy.”
    This approval is from the first funding round of the Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program, which made available more than $800 million for states, including Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia, U.S. Territories, and Native Entities to apply for grants to implement their digital equity plans. These plans were developed under the State Digital Equity Planning Grant Program. Awards of funding will require additional review and approval of State-submitted documentation.    

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Lebanon/Israel, UNRWA, Sudan & other topics – Daily Press Briefing (25 Oct 2024) | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Noon briefing by Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    Highlights:
    -Secretary-General travels
    -Occupied Palestinian territory
    -UNRWA
    -Lebanon/Israel
    -Lebanon/humanitarian
    -Sudan
    -Ukraine
    -Deputy Secretary-General
    -Cuba
    -Audiovisual Heritage
    -Guests and Briefings today

    SECRETARY-GENERAL TRAVELS
    The Secretary-General is traveling back to New York from Kazan, in the Russian Federation, and he will be back at the United Nations for the Security Council meeting on Monday.
    On the margins of the BRICS Summit in Kazan, the Secretary-General met last night with Vladimir Putin, President of the Russian Federation.
    The Secretary-General reiterated his position that the Russian invasion of Ukraine was in violation of the United Nations Charter and international law. He further underlined United Nations support for peace, in line with the remarks he delivered at the BRICS summit.
    The Secretary-General expressed his belief that establishing freedom of navigation in the Black Sea is of paramount importance for Ukraine, the Russian Federation and for the world’s food and energy security. He fully supports the continuation of negotiations in this regard and expresses his deep appreciation for the work being done by Türkiye.

    OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY
    The Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs is extremely alarmed by developments at Kamal Adwan Hospital in North Gaza, one of the last functioning medical facilities for civilians who are being killed, injured and trapped by the tightening Israeli siege.
    This morning’s reports of a military raid on the hospital are deeply concerning. As we have said repeatedly, hospitals must be protected, both from use for military purposes and from attack, by any party to the conflict.
    The World Health Organization says that since the reported raid, the agency has lost touch with personnel at Kamal Adwan.
    Yesterday, WHO – accompanied by OCHA, the UN Mine Action Service, and partners – reached Kamal Adwan. The mission took 20 hours, with the team arriving back at 3:30 a.m. this morning. While on their way, the team reported long delays at checkpoints, as hostilities continued nearby, and said that local UN staff were temporarily detained at a mobile checkpoint. The team transferred 23 patients and more than two dozen caregivers from Kamal Adwan to Al Shifa Hospital in Gaza City.
    The mission also delivered 10,000 litres of fuel, 180 units of blood, and enough trauma and surgical supplies for 1,600 interventions at Kamal Adwan. And they supplied a range of medicines sufficient for about 5,000 patients.
    Kamal Adwan must be protected. It is the only minimally functional hospital providing trauma care in all of North Gaza governorate. Al Awda Hospital remains isolated due to hostilities in its vicinity.
    OCHA warns that the humanitarian crisis in North Gaza is rapidly worsening, with humanitarian essentials in extremely short supply. Moreover, the vast majority of attempts to deliver critical assistance continue to be denied or impeded.
    Today, Israeli authorities once again denied permission for the delivery of essential food and water supplies to Jabalya.
    OCHA warns that intense hostilities persist across the Gaza Strip, including the south. Overnight, an Israeli raid on multiple neighbourhoods of Khan Younis left scores dead and many more injured, including numerous women and children. During the operation, families sought safety in An Nasser hospital, the Maan UNRWA school, and the Al Mawasi area, with most returning home after Israeli forces withdrew. Reports indicate widespread damage to homes, leaving people in urgent need of tents, tarpaulins to cover damaged shelters, hot meals, and clean water.
    In the West Bank, OCHA reports that during this month alone, more than 100 incidents linked to Israeli settlers have led to Palestinian casualties and property damage. In October overall, there were some 180 settler-related incidents in almost 90 Palestinian communities across the West Bank, with more than half of these cases involving the olive harvest season.

    Full Highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=25%20October%202024

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c6Chw4-IHZc

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Manitoba Government Celebrates Recipients of 2024 Manitoba Healthy Aging Awards

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    October 25, 2024

    Manitoba Government Celebrates Recipients of 2024 Manitoba Healthy Aging Awards

    The Manitoba government is honouring Manitobans aged 65 and older at the annual Manitoba Healthy Aging Awards to celebrate people who have dedicated their time to improving the health and well-being of older adults as they age in their homes and communities, Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care Minister Uzoma Asagwara announced today.

    “Seniors have made this province what it is today: a wonderful place to live,” said Asagwara. “These awards are well-deserved, and I want to congratulate each outstanding individual for their dedication to supporting safe and healthy aging in their communities.”

    The minister will present awards in three categories:

    • Older Adult of the Year Award – recognizing older adults who have demonstrated outstanding leadership in advocating for seniors in their communities;
    • Healthy and Active Living Ambassador Award – recognizing older adults helping their peers stay physically active and healthy; and
    • Intergenerational Impact Award – recognizing voluntary contributions of Manitobans that have created innovative solutions to improve the health of older adults in the community through meaningful intergenerational activities.

    The ceremony will be held today at the Manitoba Legislative Building to coincide with Seniors and Elders Month, the minister noted.

    For more information about the awards and award recipients, visit www.gov.mb.ca/seniors/index.html.

    – 30 –

    BACKGROUND INFORMATION ATTACHED

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tonko Applauds $215 Million Federal Grant Awarded to Replace Livingston Avenue Bridge

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Paul Tonko (Capital Region New York)

    ALBANY, NY — U.S. Congressman Paul D. Tonko today celebrated the award of $215,104,000 to New York State Department of Transportation to replace the Livingston Avenue Bridge. For years, Tonko has campaigned for federal funding for the Livingston Avenue Bridge project. Earlier this year, he wrote to the Federal Railroad Administration calling for the project to be funded.

    “The Livingston Avenue Bridge is a vital point of connection between Albany and Rensselaer and makes up the only Upstate New York passenger rail crossing over the Hudson,” Congressman Tonko said. “This Civil War-era rail bridge has long been in need of replacement to meet the needs of our communities. Now, at long last, this funding will help pave the way for groundbreaking improvements that will bolster rail service and reliability, and offer safe and easy access for pedestrians. I’m proud to have played a role in pushing for this vital funding to our region, and am grateful to all those whose efforts have driven this project forward.”

    The proposed project involves construction to replace a passenger rail bridge, built in 1865, spanning the Hudson river. The new bridge will improve service and reliability along the Empire Corridor, while also providing pedestrians and cyclists with a safe, convenient, and easy-to-access Hudson River crossing. The project meets modern rail standards, allowing for simultaneous two-track operation, removing current speed restrictions, increasing operating speeds, and more.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kelly presents $500,000 in Community Project Funding in Corry, highlights broadband expansion project

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Kelly (R-PA)

    CORRY, Pa. — Today, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA) presented $500,000 in Community Project Funding to officials with Impact Corry for the organization’s ongoing Corry Area Technology & Cyber Hub (CATCH) project during a ceremony hosted by the Corry Higher Education Council.

    During the news conference, Kelly and local officials highlighted the benefits that reliable high-speed internet brings to the local economy. They also provided an update about the forthcoming #LiveConnected broadband expansion project spearheaded by Impact Corry.

    “Reliable internet is a critical tool for both families and businesses to succeed in the twenty-first century. The work Impact Corry is doing to establish high-speed internet in this corner of Erie
    County is a gamechanger, and it aims to provide a return on taxpayer dollars,” said Rep. Kelly.

    “Great strides, like the #LiveConnected program, would not be happening without the advocacy and support of our elected officials like Representative Mike Kelly,” said Charles Gray, Executive Director of Impact Corry.

    Impact Corry, along with the City of Corry and the Corry Redevelopment Authority, applied for the funding through the 2022 Community Project Funding process.

    This project funding will go toward installing high-speed broadband infrastructure across the Corry area, along with a regional cloud system, work-at-home job training, and other technology-related initiatives.

    One of the largest challenges facing rural communities and small towns is broadband access and limited technology options. This project aims to address those challenges. You can learn more about CATCH here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pappas Introduces Multi-State Worker Tax Fairness Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH)

    This week, Representatives Chris Pappas (NH-01), Jim Himes (CT-04), and Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05) introduced the Multi-State Worker Tax Fairness Act. This bill establishes a uniform standard for taxing income based on physical presence in a state. In doing so, the bill prohibits a state from taxing a nonresident’s income earned when the individual was not physically in that state.

    “Every dollar hard-working Granite Staters can keep in their pocket matters, and workers must be protected from unfair, out-of-state taxes,” said Congressman Chris Pappas. “The Multi-State Worker Tax Fairness Act would protect individuals who telework for a company in a state different from the one they reside in from over-taxation. I will continue to fight for tax fairness for all.” 

    “Despite a pandemic-driven surge in telework, conflicting state tax rules still burden employees and discourage working from home,” said Congressman Jim Himes. “There is no good reason why residents of Connecticut who work from home offices in Connecticut should be paying taxes to any other state. It is time to modernize our laws to support an evolving workforce and protect Americans from unfair over-taxation.”

    “The Multi-State Worker Tax Fairness Act is essential for cutting taxes and ensuring people in New Jersey keep more of their hard-earned dollars where they belong — in their own pockets,” said Congressman Josh Gottheimer. “By clarifying that they should only pay taxes to the state where they live and work, we’re not just protecting their financial well-being — we’re ensuring they aren’t double taxed by a state they don’t even set foot in.”

    You can view the full text of the bill here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NH Delegation Joins EPA in Announcing Nearly $35 Million for Water Infrastructure in New Hampshire

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH)

    Today the New Hampshire delegation joined the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in announcing $35 million for New Hampshire  in new funding under the bipartisan infrastructure law to upgrade water infrastructure and keep communities safe.

    “Our drinking water and waste water systems in New Hampshire require investment and modernization to serve the needs of Granite Staters. That is why I fought to pass the bipartisan infrastructure law to deliver these federal resources to New Hampshire,” said U.S. Representative Chris Pappas. “I’ll keep fighting to ensure this law benefits Granite Staters by delivering clean drinking water, protecting our environment, and helping our communities and economy grow for the future.”

    “The health and vitality of Granite State communities depend on clean water,” said U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen. “As a lead negotiator of the water provisions of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, I’m thrilled to see this funding headed to New Hampshire to strengthen our wastewater infrastructure, address forever chemicals and keep our lakes and rivers clean.”

    “Every Granite Stater deserves safe, clean drinking water, and this new $34 million in funding for New Hampshire through the bipartisan infrastructure law will help make that possible for more families,” said U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan. “I helped negotiate and pass into law this historic infrastructure package to help deliver results for our communities, and I am pleased to see these continued investments flowing to New Hampshire to upgrade our water systems and protect public health.”

    “Safe, clean water is essential to the health and well-being of our communities, our economy, and our way of life,” said U.S. Representative Annie Kuster. “With these resources made available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, New Hampshire will be able to make critical improvements to our state’s water infrastructure, protect our freshwater ecosystems, and ensure more families and businesses have access to clean drinking water.”

    “Water keeps us healthy, sustains vibrant communities and dynamic ecosystems, and supports economic opportunity. When our water infrastructure fails, it threatens people’s health, peace of mind, and the environment,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “With the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s historic investment in water, EPA is working with states and local partners to upgrade infrastructure and address local challenges—from lead in drinking water, to PFAS, to water main breaks, to sewer overflows and climate resilience. Together, we are creating good-paying jobs while ensuring that all people can rely on clean and safe water.”

    “Clean, reliable water is at the heart of every thriving community. Yet too many communities—especially those overburdened by pollution or left behind by past investments—face challenges accessing the resources they need to upgrade water infrastructure,” said EPA Regional Administrator David W. Cash. “Thanks to the Biden-Harris Administration, we are delivering transformative funding to support local solutions to water issues, from fixing aging infrastructure to addressing emerging contaminants like PFAS. These investments don’t just protect public health and reduce pollution in waterways; they also create good-paying jobs and help communities become more resilient for the future.”

    These bipartisan infrastructure law funds will flow through the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (CWSRF and DWSRF), a long-standing federal-state water investment partnership. This multibillion-dollar investment will fund state-run, low-interest loan programs that address key challenges in financing water infrastructure. Today’s announcement includes allotments for bipartisan infrastructure law Clean Water General Supplemental funds for New Hampshire ($24,867,000), Emerging Contaminant funds ($2,146,000), and $7,640,000 under the Drinking Water Emerging Contaminant Fund. 

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressional Taiwan Caucus Co-Chairs Express Concern Over South Africa’s Request to Relocate Taiwan Liaison Office

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (25th District of FLORIDA)

    CategoriesMIL OSI

    WASHINGTON, D.C. –  Today, U.S. Representatives Mario Díaz-Balart (R-FL), Ami Bera, M.D. (D-CA), Andy Barr (R-KY), and Gerald E. Connolly (D-VA), Co-Chairs of the Congressional Taiwan Caucus, issued a statement expressing concern over South Africa’s request to relocate Taiwan Liaison Office:

    “South Africa’s demand that Taiwan relocate its liaison office from Pretoria raises serious concerns about the extent of the PRC’s influence in South Africa’s affairs. We urge the South African government to reconsider this decision and reconfirm its commitment to its democratic partner Taiwan.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Labor Caucus Urges Amazon to Respect its Employees’ Rights; Requests Information About Anti-Union Activities

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Jesús Chuy García (IL-04)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressional Labor Caucus Co-Chairs Representatives Mark Pocan (D-WI), Donald Norcross (D-NJ), and Debbie Dingell (D-MI) and Caucus members Reps. Ilhan Omar (D-MN), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), and Jesús “Chuy” García (D-IL) led 133 Members of Congress in Congress in calling on Amazon to respect its employees’ rights and requesting information from the company about its anti-union activities.

    “Workers have a constitutional right to organize and advocate for improvements in their wages and working conditions, as well as statutory rights to engage in protected concerted activity under Section 7 of the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA),” the members wrote in a letter to Amazon Chief Executive Officer Andy Jassy.

    “We have heard concerns from our constituents who are scared to exercise these rights due to fear of reprisal from their employer, and anti-union activities from an employer as prominent as Amazon exacerbate those concerns,” the Members continued. “Therefore, in accordance with the NLRA, we urge Amazon to refrain from engaging in intimidation, retaliation, and other forms of illegal interference and to allow workers to decide on their own, whether they should join a union.”

    Unfortunately Amazon has been found to have violated federal labor law on numerous occasions, including public anti-union comments from CEO Andy Jassy. This letter comes amidst a recent wave of worker organizing activity at Amazon locations around the county. To ensure that workers rights are respected going forward, the Members requested information from Amazon and asked if it will commit to following applicable federal and state labor laws.

    A full copy of the letter can be found here.  

    The letter was signed by 133 Members of Congress, including: Reps. Alma Adams; Gabe Amo; Becca Balint; Nanette Barragán; Joyce Beatty; Jamaal Bowman; Julia Brownley; Shontel Brown; Nikki Budzinski; Cori Bush; Salud Carbajal; André Carson; Greg Casar; Sean Casten; Joaquin Castro; Judy Chu; Steve Cohen; Lou Correa; Joe Courtney; Jason Crow; Danny Davis; Madeleine Dean; Rosa DeLauro; Christopher Deluzio; Mark DeSaulnier; Debbie Dingell; Lloyd Doggett; Adriano Espaillat; Dwight Evans; Bill Foster; Lois Frankel; Maxwell Frost; Ruben Gallego; John Garamendi; Jesús García; Sylvia Garcia; Jared Golden; Daniel Goldman; Jimmy Gomez; Al Green; Raúl Grijalva; Chrissy Houlahan; Val Hoyle; Jared Huffman; Jonathan Jackson; Sara Jacobs; Henry Johnson; Marcy Kaptur; William Keating; Timothy Kennedy; Ro Khanna; Daniel Kildee; Andy Kim; Raja Krishnamoorthi; Greg Landsman; John Larson; Barbara Lee; Summer Lee; Teresa Leger Fernandez; Stephen Lynch; Seth Magaziner; Betty McCollum; Morgan McGarvey; James McGovern; Robert Menendez; Grace Meng; Kevin Mullin; Jerrold Nadler; Grace Napolitano; Wiley Nickel; Donald Norcross; Elanor Norton; Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez; Ilhan Omar; Frank Pallone; Chris Pappas; Mary Peltola; Chellie Pingree; Mark Pocan; Katie Porter; Ayanna Pressley; Delia Ramirez; Jamie Raskin; Raul Ruiz; Patrick Ryan; Linda Sánchez; Mary Scanlon; Janice Schakowsky; Adam Schiff; Hillary Scholten; Brad Sherman; Mikie Sherrill; Elissa Slotkin; Adam Smith; Eric Sorensen; Darren Soto; Melanie Stansbury; Greg Stanton; Haley Stevens; Thomas Suozzi; Emilia Sykes; Mark Takano; Shri Thanedar; Bennie Thompson; Dina Titus; Rashida Tlaib; Paul Tonko; Ritchie Torres; Lori Trahan; David Trone; Lauren Underwood; Juan Vargas; Nydia Velázquez; Debbie Wasserman Schultz; Maxine Waters; Bonnie Watson Coleman; and Susan Wild.

    ###

    The Congressional Labor Caucus is composed of more than 100 Members of Congress working to protect and advance workers’ rights.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Joint Statement: 7th India-Germany Inter-Governmental Consultations (IGC)

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 25 OCT 2024 8:25PM by PIB Delhi

    Growing Together with Innovation, Mobility and Sustainability

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz co-chaired the seventh round of India-Germany Inter-Governmental Consultations (7th IGC) on 25 October 2024 in New Delhi. The Delegation included Ministers of Defence, External Affairs, Commerce & Industries, Labour & Employment, Science & Technology (MoS) and Skill Development (MoS) from the Indian side and Ministers of Economic Affairs & Climate Action, Foreign Affairs, Labour & Social Affairs and Education & Research from the German side along with Parliamentary State Secretaries for Finance; Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection; and Economic Cooperation and Development from the German side, as well as senior officials from both sides.

    2. Prime Minister Narendra Modi warmly welcomed Chancellor Olaf Scholz on his third visit to India as Chancellor. Both leaders sincerely appreciated the renewed momentum in bilateral engagement across government, industry, civil society and academia that has played an instrumental role in advancing and deepening the Strategic Partnership between India and Germany.

    3. Both leaders emphasised the importance of the Asia-Pacific Conference of German Business (APK), which takes place in New Delhi in parallel to the 7th IGC, in strengthening economic ties and strategic partnerships between Germany, India and the Indo-Pacific region as a whole. The decision to host the 2024 conference in India underscores India’s political weight in the Indo-Pacific and globally.

    4. Under the motto “Growing Together with Innovation, Mobility and Sustainability”, the 7th IGC placed particular emphasis on technology and innovation, labour and talent, migration and mobility, climate action, green and sustainable development as well as economic, defence and strategic cooperation. Both sides agree that the aforementioned domains will be the key drivers of our ever more multi-faceted partnership that spans trade, investment, defence, science, technology, innovation, sustainability, renewable energy, emerging technologies, development cooperation, culture, education, sustainable mobility, sustainable resource management, biodiversity, climate resilience and people-to-people ties.

    5. The year 2024 marks the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Inter – Governmental Agreement on Cooperation in Scientific Research and Technological Development which institutionalized the framework of Indo-German cooperation in Science & Technology, research and innovation. In this context, the 7th IGC presented an opportunity to renew the close relationship between India and Germany in this regard and to prioritize the advancement of technology and innovation as a key pillar of cooperation.

    6. During the 6th IGC, both governments had announced the Green and Sustainable Development Partnership (GSDP), which serves as an umbrella for bilateral formats and joint initiatives in this field. Subsequently, both sides signed the Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement (MMPA) in December 2022 and launched the “India-Germany Vision to Enhance Cooperation in Innovation and Technology” in February 2023. Recalling the outcomes of the 6th IGC and various agreements concluded by the two sides thereafter, both governments launched the “India-Germany Innovation and Technology Partnership Roadmap” and introduced the “Indo-German Green Hydrogen Roadmap”, whose aim is to promote the market ramp-up of Green Hydrogen.Growing Together for Peace, Security and Stability

    7. The two leaders noted the Pact for the Future and reaffirmed their commitment to upholding shared values and principles including democracy, freedom, international peace and security and a rules-based international order in line with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter. Both governments also underscored their commitment to strengthen and reform the multilateral system including expansion of both permanent and non-permanent categories of membership of the UN Security Council to reflect contemporary realities, address current and future challenges and to support and preserve peace and stability across the world. The two leaders called for text-based negotiations at the IGN within a fixed timeframe.

    8. India and Germany agreed that the difficulties of the UN Security Council to effectively address regional and global crises offer a compelling reminder of the urgent need for reform. As members of the “Group of Four (G4)”, India and Germany reiterated their call for a Security Council that is efficient, effective, transparent and reflective of 21st century realities.

    9. The leaders expressed their deepest concern over the war raging in Ukraine including its terrible and tragic humanitarian consequences. They reiterated the need for a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in line with international law, consistent with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, including respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity. They also noted the negative impacts of the war in Ukraine with regard to global food and energy security, especially for developing and least developed countries. In the context of this war, they shared the view that the use, or threat of use, of nuclear weapons is unacceptable. They underscored the importance of upholding international law, and in line with the UN Charter, reiterated that all states must refrain from the threat of or use of force against the territorial integrity and sovereignty or political independence of any state.

    10. The leaders expressed their shared interest in achieving peace and stability in the Middle East. They unequivocally condemned the Hamas’ terror attacks on October 7, 2023 and expressed concern over the large-scale loss of civilian lives and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. They called for the immediate release of all hostages taken by Hamas and an immediate ceasefire as well as the urgent improvement of access and sustained distribution of humanitarian assistance at scale throughout Gaza. The leaders underscored the need to prevent the conflict from escalating and spilling over in the region. In this regard, they called on all regional players to act responsibly and with restraint. Both sides also emphasized the urgent need to protect the lives of civilians and facilitate safe, timely and sustained humanitarian relief to civilians, and in this regard urged all parties to comply with international law. The leaders were also deeply concerned about the rapidly deteriorating situation in Lebanon, called for an urgent cessation of hostilities and agreed that a solution to the conflict in Gaza and in Lebanon can only be reached by diplomatic means. The United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701 outlines the path towards a diplomatic solution along the Blue Line. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a negotiated two-state solution, leading to the establishment of a sovereign, viable and independent State of Palestine, living within secure and mutually recognized borders, side by side in dignity and peace with Israel, taking into account Israel’s legitimate security concerns.

    11. The leaders underscored that as the world’s two largest democracies, India and the EU have a common interest in ensuring security, prosperity and sustainable development in a multi – polar world. They emphasized the importance of deepening the India-EU Strategic Partnership which would not only benefit both sides but also have a far-reaching positive impact globally. The leaders also expressed their strong support to the India-EU Trade and Technology Council that would serve as an innovative platform towards closer engagement in the critical areas of trade, trusted technologies and security. They agreed to coordinate efforts, both bilaterally and at the EU level, to take forward key connectivity initiatives including India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor in which India, Germany and EU are members as well as the EU Initiative Global Gateway.

    12. Both leaders underscored the crucial importance of a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement, Investment Protection Agreement and an Agreement on Geographical Indications between the European Union and India, while calling for an early conclusion of the negotiations.

    13. Both leaders unequivocally condemned terrorism and violent extremism in all its forms and manifestations, including the use of terrorist proxies and cross-border terrorism. Both sides agreed that terrorism remains a serious threat to international peace and stability. They further called for concerted action against all terrorist groups, including groups proscribed by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) 1267 Sanctions Committee. Both sides also called upon all countries to continue to work towards eliminating terrorist safe havens and infrastructure as well as to disrupt terrorist networks and financing in accordance with international law.

    14. Both leaders noted with concern the emerging threats from the use of new and emerging technologies for terrorist purposes such as unmanned aircraft systems, use of virtual assets by terrorists and terrorist entities and the misuse of information and communication technologies for radicalization. In this regard they welcomed the adoption of Delhi Declaration on Countering the use of New and Emerging Technologies for Terrorism Purposes adopted during the conduct of UNCTC meetings in India in 2022.

    15. Recognizing a shared commitment to combat terrorism and strengthen the framework for global cooperation in this regard, both leaders emphasized the importance of upholding international standards on anti-money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism by all countries, including in FATF. Both sides called for bringing the perpetrators of terrorist acts to justice. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to hold regular consultations of the Joint Working Group on Counter Terrorism to strengthen channels for real time sharing of intelligence and coordination of counter-terrorism efforts. Both sides also committed to continued exchange of information about sanctions and designations against terror groups and individuals, countering radicalism, and terrorists’ use of the internet and cross-border movement of terrorists.

    16. With a view to ensuring closer collaboration to prevent, suppress, investigate and prosecute criminals, including crime related to terrorism, India and Germany concluded the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty in Criminal Matters (MLAT). Both leaders agreed that the India-Germany MLAT is an important milestone in strengthening security cooperation between the two countries that will enable sharing of information and evidence, mutual capacity building and sharing of best practices between the two countries.

    17. As strategic partners with a shared interest in deepening security cooperation, both sides concluded the Agreement on the Exchange and Mutual Protection of Classified Information thereby creating a legal framework for cooperation and collaboration between Indian and German entities and providing guidance on how classified information should be handled, protected and transmitted.

    18. With a view to better appreciating foreign policy perspectives in key regions across the world, both governments decided to establish an India-Germany Dialogue on West Asia and North Africa (WANA) between the respective Foreign Ministries, which would be in addition to long-standing dialogue mechanisms on Africa and East Asia. Both governments also expressed satisfaction with regular consultations on key thematic issues of mutual concern including policy planning, cyber-security, cyber issues and United Nations.

    19. Recognizing the need for a deeper understanding of each other’s perspectives, including amongst think tanks and foreign and security policy experts, both governments underscored the usefulness of India-Germany Track 1.5 dialogue between Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA), the Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS) and MEA from the Indian side and German Institute for Global and Area Studies (GIGA), the German Institute for International and Security Affairs (SWP) and the German Federal Foreign Office. The next meeting of this dialogue format is planned for November 2024. Both governments also appreciated the launch of a Track 1.5 Dialogue on East Asia and agreed that these exchanges help both sides better align and coordinate their outreach. With a view to sustaining this momentum, both sides agreed to convene the next edition of the Track 1.5 Dialogue Mechanisms at the earliest opportunity.

    20. Both sides are committed to promoting a free, open, inclusive, peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific built on international law, mutual respect for sovereignty, and peaceful resolution of disputes, and underpinned by effective regional institutions. Both sides reaffirmed their unwavering support for ASEAN’s unity and centrality. The Government of India welcomed Germany’s leadership in the capacity-building pillar of the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) and its commitment of up to 20 Million EUR via a competitive call for ideas under its International Climate Initiative in 2022 to strengthen the resilience of Pacific Island States against climate-related loss and damage.

    21. Germany congratulated India on its successful G20 Presidency which brought the development agenda to centre stage in G20. Both Leaders acknowledged that from initiating a platform on Compact with Africa (CwA) during the German G20 Presidency to inclusion of the African Union as a permanent member of the G20 during India’s Presidency, the G20 has come a long way to ensure that the voice of the Global South is amplified. India and Germany expressed their support to the priorities set by the Brazilian G20 Presidency, especially Global Governance Reforms.Strengthening Defence and Strategic Cooperation

    22. Recognizing the shared goal of intensifying defence ties between the two countries, the Government of India welcomed the efforts of the German Federal Government to facilitate faster export clearances, including through favourable regulatory decisions such as the General Authorisation/General Licences (AGG) regime. Both sides committed to supporting strategic exports to India and encouraged co-development, co-production and joint research between the respective defence industries. Both governments appreciated the defence roundtable held in New Delhi on 24 October, to strengthen the defense industrial partnership between India and Germany.

    23. In addition to regular visits and increasing interactions between the armed forces, both sides look forward to the next High Defence Committee (HDC) meeting to be held in India next year with a view to developing defence cooperation as a key pillar of the Strategic Partnership between India and Germany. India and Germany also agreed to finalize cooperation in peacekeeping related training between the Centre for UN Peacekeeping (CUNPK), New Delhi and its counterpart in Germany, the Bundeswehr United Nations Training Centre in Hammelburg (GAFUNTC) and looked forward to the Peacekeeping Ministerial Meeting in Berlin in 2025.

    24. Both sides stressed the importance of the Indo-Pacific for prosperity and security as well as for addressing global challenges. Germany will enhance its engagement with the region in line with the Federal Government’s policy guidelines for the Indo-Pacific. Both sides also highlighted the importance of freedom of navigation and of unimpeded maritime routes in accordance with International Law, as reflected in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) 1982, in all maritime domains including in the Indo-Pacific. In this context, both governments declared their joint intent to conclude a Memorandum of Arrangement regarding mutual logistics support and exchange between the armed forces of India and Germany to further intensify defence and security ties and to establish a basis for provision of mutual logistics support including in the Indo-Pacific theatre. With a view to deepening cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, Germany will permanently deploy a Liaison Officer in the Information Fusion Centre – Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) at Gurugram to monitor the marine traffic in IOR, further augmenting close cooperation in this region.

    25. Both sides welcomed Germany’s growing engagement in the Indo-Pacific region in the field of security and defence cooperation and appreciated the successful cooperation of the Indian and German air forces during exercise TARANG SHAKTI in August 2024 as well as the port call in Goa and joint naval exercises between the German Naval Frigate “Baden-Württemberg” along with the Combat Support Ship “Frankfurt Am Main” and the Indian Navy. Germany also welcomed the port call of Indian naval ship INS TABAR to Hamburg in July 2024.

    26. Both governments agreed to intensify bilateral exchanges on security and defence issues also through enhancing research, co-development and co-production activities bilaterally, under EU mechanisms and with other partners. In this regard, both sides will support enhanced industry level cooperation in the defence sector with a specific focus on technology collaboration, manufacturing/co-production and co-development of defence platforms and equipment. Germany also welcomes India’s application for observer status in the Eurodrone Programme of OCCAR (Organisation for Joint Armament Co-operation).Partnering for Critical and Emerging Technologies, Science and Innovation

    27. Both leaders expressed their appreciation on the successful 50 years of long standing collaboration in science and technology between the two countries and reaffirmed their support to expand it further through launching the ‘India-Germany Innovation and Technology Partnership Roadmap’ which will serve as a guideline to the public and private sectors and research institutions of the two countries to take forward our cooperation in the areas of renewable energy, start-ups, semiconductors, AI and quantum technologies, climate risk and sustainable resource management, climate change adaptation as well as agroecology Both leaders further identified space and space technologies as an important and promising area for future prosperity, development, and possible cooperation.

    28. The two leaders expressed their satisfaction at the growing exchanges between the two countries in the field of research & education and growing number of Indian students studying in Germany. Both leaders also acknowledged the flagship role of the Indo-German Science and Technology Centre (IGSTC) in promoting bilateral industry-academia strategic research and development partnerships. Both leaders welcomed the recent initiatives of IGSTC and signing of Joint Declaration of Intent to support 2+2 projects in the field of advanced materials. Understanding the importance of IGSTC, both leaders expressed their desire to expand and forge new partnerships anchored in shared values and driven by innovation led technology development and manufacturing.

    29. Both Leaders acknowledged the launching of the first ever basic research consortia model between the two countries namely, International Research Training Group (IRTG), jointly by Department of Science and Technology (DST) & German Research Foundation (DFG) with the involvement of first group of researchers from IISER Thiruvananthapuram and Würzburg University on Photoluminescence in Supramolecular Matrices. Underpinning science and innovation landscape, they expressed their desire to initiate an Indo-German Innovation and Incubation Exchange Programme to leverage collective expertise and capacity for fostering scientific innovation and incubation ecosystems of academic & research institutions.

    30. Both Leaders also expressed their appreciation and satisfaction over the high level of engagement as exemplified by India’s participation in mega-science facilities at Facility for Anti-Proton and Ion Research (FAIR) and Deutsche Elektronen Synchrotron (DESY) in Germany. They extended their commitment including financials to ensure timely execution of the FAIR facility. The two leaders also acknowledge the continuation of the cooperation at the synchrotron radiation facility PETRA-III and the free-electron laser facility FLASH at DESY.

    31. Both governments welcomed the steadily increasing partnerships in Higher Education which facilitate dual and joint degrees and intensify collaborative research and academic and institutional exchanges between Universities and Institutions of Higher Education. In particular, both sides expressed their appreciation and full support for the first ever Indo-German joint Masters degree programme in “Water Security & Global Change”, a joint initiative of TU Dresden, RWTH-Aachen and IIT-Madras (IITM) funded by DAAD as well as a new initiative of TU Dresden and IITM to conclude an agreement establishing a “transCampus” to deepen bilateral cooperation in teaching, research, innovation and entrepreneurship. Both governments also welcomed the signing of the MoU between IIT Kharagpur and the DAAD, which will enable joint funding for Indo-German university cooperation projects. Both sides expressed their strong support for the dedicated call of the “German Indian Academic Network for Tomorrow” (GIANT) under SPARC (Scheme for Promotion of Academic and Research Collaboration) highlighting cooperation between Indian and German universities.

    32. With a view to further strengthening digital and technology partnerships between India and Germany, both governments agreed to share experience and expertise in digital public infrastructure (DPI), e.g. to explore ways in which Germany can leverage India’s expertise in DPI and the strengths of the Indian IT industry to drive innovation and digital transformation in both countries. As an important forum for exchanges on digital topics such as internet governance, tech regulations, digital transformation of economy, and emerging digital technologies, both sides welcomed the finalization of the Work Plan for 2023-24 formulated by the Indo-German Digital Dialogue (IGDD).

    33. Both sides will endeavour to leverage AI to advance the SDG, recognizing the need for an innovation-friendly, balanced, inclusive, human-centric and risk-based approach to the governance of AI. Digital solutions such as image detection and AI are playing an important role in revolutionising agriculture by assisting farmers and enhancing agricultural productivity, climate resilience, carbon sinks and sustainability. Both countries are running national programmes to facilitate the growth of digital agriculture and have agreed to intensify their Cooperation in Digital Agriculture, AI and IoT to foster ongoing cooperation, innovation and exchanges for modernising agriculture.

    34. Both governments underlined the strategic importance of collaboration in the field of critical and emerging technologies, innovation and skill development. Reaffirming the priorities for bilateral cooperation, as laid down in the Innovation and Technology Partnership Roadmap, both governments agreed to focus on collaboration in innovation, skill development and critical and emerging technologies. Forging closer linkages between the industry and academia of the two countries in key technology areas would be prioritized, in recognition of a shared commitment to ensuring an open, inclusive and secure technology architecture, built on mutual trust and respect, and reflecting shared values and democratic principles. Based on that, the two countries would achieve outcome oriented and mutually beneficial technology collaboration in identified sectors.

    35. In furthering cooperation in the field of research in disaster mitigation, tsunami warnings, coastal hazards, early warning systems, disaster risk reduction and oceanography, polar sciences, biology and biogeochemistry, geophysics and geology, both Governments welcomed the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) and Helmholtz-Zentrum Potsdam – Deutsches GeoForschungsZentrum, and between National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) and AlfredWegener-Institut, Helmholtz-Zentrum für Polar- und Meeresforschung (AWI).

    36. Both Governments also welcomed the bilateral agreement in the biological, physical and mathematical sciences between National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS) and International Centre for Theoretical Sciences (ICTS), both centres of the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), under the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), India and Max-Planck-Gesellschaft (MPG), Germany. This agreement will facilitate the exchange of scientists, including students and research staff, between the various Max Planck Institutes with ICTS and NCBS.

    37. Both Leaders noted with appreciation the collaboration between M/s New Space India Ltd and M/s GAF AG for upgrading the international ground station at Neustrelitz, Germany for the reception and processing of data from OceanSat – 3 and RISAT – 1A satellites. Partnership for a Green and Sustainable Future

    38. Both sides acknowledged the need for green, sustainable, climate resilient and inclusive development to achieve net zero emissions. Both governments aim to substantially enhance bilateral, trilateral and multilateral cooperation in climate action and sustainable development. Both sides acknowledged the progress achieved thus far under the Indo-German Green and Sustainable Development Partnership (GSDP). This partnership, guided by shared commitments, seeks to accelerate the implementation of the goals outlined in the Paris Agreement and the SDGs. In this context, both sides stressed the need to work jointly for an ambitious outcome of the upcoming UNFCCC COP29, in particular on the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG). Both sides will respond positively to the outcomes of COP28, including the first Global Stocktake, in light of national circumstances.

    39. Both sides appreciated the stocktaking of progress during the Ministerial meeting on the GSDP objectives. To contribute to the implementation of the GSDP, both sides are committed to regular dialogue within the existing working groups and other bilateral formats and initiatives. The next meeting of the Ministerial Mechanism shall take place at the latest within the framework of the next India-Germany Inter-Governmental Consultations, to conduct a stocktaking of the progress on GSDP objectives to achieve the Paris Agreement goals and SDGs. Both sides reaffirmed their intention to closely cooperate on combatting climate change and therefore expressed their intention to hold a meeting of the Indo-German Climate Working Group in the near future.

    40. Under the umbrella of the GSDP, both sides inter alia:

    a. Launched the Indo-German Green Hydrogen Roadmap. The Leaders agreed that the Roadmap will help support India’s ambition for production, usage and export of Green Hydrogen while also contributing to a swifter adoption of Green Hydrogen as a sustainable source of energy in both countries

    b. Launched the GSDP Dashboard, a publicly accessible online tool, which showcases the intensive cooperation between Germany and India under the GSDP. It gives an overview of key innovations and the broad range of experience covered by India-Germany cooperation. It facilitates stocktaking of the joint progress towards achieving GSDP objectives, and provides key information to relevant stakeholders on innovative solutions for global challenges.

    c. Signed a Joint Declaration of Intent to renew and further elevate the partnership in accordance with a shared vision to promoting in India sustainable urban mobility for all, recognizing the importance of green and sustainable urbanization for inclusive social and economic development and the strong results of the Green Urban Mobility Partnership since its establishment in 2019.

    d. Highly appreciated the achievements and vision for the future of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and agreed to intensify our cooperation within ISA.

    e. Appreciated the cooperation in the area of halting deforestation and degradation and reversing the trend by restoring forest landscapes in support of the implementation of the Rio Conventions and the SDGs.

    41. The leaders acknowledged that the Indo-German Energy Forum (IGEF), through its various activities, has played a pivotal role in strengthening the general bilateral economic relations between Germany and India, promoting economic growth, and addressing global climate change challenges.

    42. Both sides underscored the role of the 4th Global RE-INVEST Renewable Energy Investors Meet & Expo, held in September 2024 in Gandhinagar with Germany as a partner country, in bringing together key stakeholders in the renewable energy sector. Both governments recalled the ‘India-Germany Platform for Investments in Renewable Energy Worldwide’ which was launched during RE-INVEST as a key initiative to fast-track renewable energy investments, foster business collaborations and expand global supply chains. The platform will accelerate the expansion of renewable energy in India and worldwide through exchanges on green financing, technology and business opportunities.

    43. Both governments expressed their wish to continue to strengthen the cooperation through the Joint Working Group on Biodiversity and acknowledged that CBD COP 16 marks a crucial moment in the global effort to implement the goals of the Global Biodiversity Framework.

    44. Recalling the deliberations and outcomes of the Joint Working Group on Waste management and Circular Economy which has created opportunities by intensifying exchanges on experiences and technologies between the two countries, both sides agreed to explore the possibility of deepening cooperation within these structures, for instance, focusing future work on inter alia Solar Waste recycling. They appreciated the Indo-German environment cooperation on the effective and efficient implementation of ambitious objectives and policies in order to prevent waste, especially plastics, from entering the marine environment. India and Germany agreed to closely cooperate towards establishing a global legally binding agreement on plastic pollution.

    45. Both leaders acknowledged the progress made under the Triangular Development Cooperation (TDC), which pools mutual strengths and experiences to offer sustainable, viable and inclusive projects in third countries as per their priorities to support the achievement of SDGs and climate targets in Africa, Asia and beyond. Both sides welcomed the encouraging results of the pilot projects in Cameroon, Ghana and Malawi, and the progress made in the ongoing initiatives with Benin and Peru. In view of the successful implementation of the aforementioned initiatives, both governments have agreed to commence upscaling of the pilot projects with Cameroon (agriculture), Malawi (women entrepreneurship) and Ghana (horticulture) in 2024 and beyond. Furthermore, both sides welcomed the start of the three millet related pilot projects: two with Ethiopia and one with Madagascar. Additionally, both sides have launched the institutional mechanism to reach out to the partners, select and implement their joint initiatives on a full scale and to this end, both governments established a Joint Steering Committee and a Joint Implementation Group.

    46. The leaders reaffirmed that Gender Equality is of fundamental importance and investing in the empowerment of women and girls has a multiplier effect in implementing the 2030 Agenda. They reiterated their commitment to encourage women-led development and enhancing womens’ full, equal, effective and meaningful participation as decision-makers for addressing global challenges inclusively while noting Germany’s Feminist Foreign and Development Policies in this regard. Both sides reaffirmed their desire to strengthen Indo-German cooperation on promoting the critical role of women in green and sustainable development.

    47. In addition, both sides welcomed the milestones already achieved with respect to the existing initiatives and new commitments for financial and technical cooperation under the framework of the GSDP, as follows:

    a.New commitments in all core areas of the GSDP of more than 1 billion EUR as agreed during the negotiations on development cooperation between the Government of India and the Government of the Federal Republic of Germany in September 2024, adding up to accumulated commitments of around 3.2 billion EUR since beginning of the GSDP in 2022;

    b.Under the Indo-German Renewable Energy Partnership, the cooperation focused on innovative solar energy, green hydrogen, other renewables, grid integration, storage and investments in the renewable energy sector to facilitate an energy transition and to address the need for a reliable, round the clock renewable power supply.

    c.The “Agroecology and Sustainable Management of Natural Resources” cooperation benefits the vulnerable rural population and small-scale farmers in India by fostering income, food security, climate resilience, soil health, biodiversity, forest ecosystems and water security.

    d.Both sides reiterated their intention to continue their successful collaboration on sustainable urban development.

    Building resilience through Trade and Economic collaboration

    48. Both leaders hailed the consistent high performance in terms of bilateral trade between the two countries in the recent years and encouraged stakeholders in India and Germany to further strengthen trade and investment flows. The leaders also noted the strong two-way investments between India and Germany and the positive impacts of such investments in diversifying the global supply chains. In this context, the leaders expressed confidence that the APK 2024, the bi-annual flagship forum of German Business with participation of top-level business executives from Germany, is a crucial platform to showcase the immense opportunities available in India for German businesses.

    49. Both sides underlined the long-standing presence of German businesses in India and Indian businesses in Germany and agreed to work towards deepening economic and trade linkages between the two countries. In this context, both sides welcomed the holding of the meeting of the India-Germany CEO Forum which serves as a high-level platform to engage business and industry leaders from India and Germany. They also underlined the achievements of the Indo-German Fast Track Mechanism to resolve trade and investment related issues, and are ready to continue its operation.

    50. In recognition of the importance of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs)/Mittelstand in economic growth and job creation, both sides acknowledged the growth in bilateral investment and the success of the ‘Make in India Mittelstand’ Programme, which supports German Mittelstand enterprises seeking to invest and do business in India. In a similar vein, both governments also recognised the key role played by start-ups in fostering innovation, and commended the German Accelerator (GA) for successfully facilitating start-ups to address the Indian market, and welcomed plans to establish its presence in India. Both sides noted that a corresponding programme to assist Indian start-ups in gaining market access in Germany could further enhance economic cooperation between the two countries.

    Strengthening Labour Markets, Mobility and People-to-People Ties

    51. As bilateral cooperation on skilled migration expands across multiple fronts, involving collaboration between federal and state governments, as well as private sector stakeholders, both sides committed to full implementation of the provisions of the Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement (MMPA). In line with the commitments outlined in the MMPA both sides remain dedicated to promoting fair and legal labor migration. This approach is guided by international standards that ensure migrant workers are treated with dignity and respect, including fair recruitment practices, transparent visa processes, and the protection of workers’ rights. By focusing on these principles, both countries aim to facilitate the mobility of skilled workers in a manner that benefits all parties while safeguarding against exploitation and ensuring compliance with international labor standards.

    52. Building on the MMPA, the two sides concluded a JDI in the field of Employment and Labour, to enhance bilateral cooperation and exchange in areas of mutual interest between the respective ministries. The German side informed that it will support a feasibility study on international reference classification, a G20 commitment undertaken by the Indian G20 presidency in 2023. Both leaders look forward to the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding in the field of occupational diseases, rehabilitation and vocational training of workers with disabilities between the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC), the Directorate General of Employment (DGE) and the German Social Accident Insurance (DGUV).

    53. Both leaders noted that Indian professionals comprise over 1/4th of all blue card holders in Germany and that Indian students now represent the largest cohort of international students in Germany. Regarding this, they recognized the complementarities that exist between the requirements of skills and talents in Germany and the vast reservoir of young, educated and skilled persons in India, who can be an asset to the German labour market. The Federal Employment Agency will deepen the existing exchange with the National Skill Development Council, India (NSDC) and other similar Government agencies at national and state levels. Both sides welcomed the launch of the new national strategy of the German Federal government to promote skilled migration from India.

    54. Both leaders also expressed satisfaction on the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on Skill Development and Vocational Education and Training which would leverage the strengths of India and Germany towards creating a pool of skilled workforce in India and strengthening the participation of women, especially in the areas of green skills. Both sides agreed to include elements of facilitating international mobility of labour.

    55. Both sides remain committed to the goal of expanding the teaching of the German language in India, including in secondary schools, universities and vocational education centers. They encouraged Indian and German States, culture centers and educational institutions to further promote the teaching of each other’s languages in India and Germany, including the training of language teachers. Both sides welcomed the joint efforts of the DAAD and the Goethe Institute to develop a format for the formalized training and further education of German teachers leading to a university certificate recognized in India.

    56. Both sides reaffirmed the contribution of highly skilled professionals for economic growth, noted with satisfaction the results achieved under the programme “Partnering in Business with Germany”, and renewed the JDI on advanced training of corporate executives and junior executives from India.

    57. With the Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement (MMPA), both sides also agreed to address irregular migration. For this purpose, both sides established a cooperation in the field of return since the entry into force of the MMPA. Both sides welcomed the progress achieved so far and underline the importance of further developing and streamlining cooperation through appropriate procedural arrangements.

    58. The leaders welcomed the growing ties between the two sides and their respective nationals. They acknowledged the wide range of Consular issues stemming from these growing ties and the need for dialogue on all matters related to Consular issues. They agreed to work towards early establishment of an appropriate format for a bilateral dialogue on various Consular, Visa and other issues affecting nationals of the other side residing in their respective territories.

    59. Both sides acknowledged the role of their youth as cultural ambassadors and catalysts for innovation and promoting people – people linkages between the two countries. In this context, both leaders stressed on the importance of youth cooperation and noted the proposal for establishing forum for youth exchanges and delegations between both sides. Both sides also agree to facilitate student exchanges on a mutual basis.

    60. Both sides noted with satisfaction the substantial work being done in the field of culture and welcomed efforts towards expanding scope of the Memorandum of Understanding on Museum Cooperation between Indian and German national museums such as the Prussian Heritage Foundation and the National Gallery of Modern Art, India.

    61. In line with the G20 New Delhi Leader’s Declaration (2023), both leaders underscored the intention to cooperate closely with regards to the restitution and protection of cultural goods and the fight against illicit trafficking of cultural property at national, regional and state levels to enable its return and restitution to the country and community of origin as relevant, and called for sustained dialogue and action in that endeavour.

    62. Both Governments also appreciated substantial cultural and academic exchanges made possible via initiatives such as the establishment of Indian academic chairs at universities in Germany.

    63. Both leaders expressed satisfaction at the deliberations held at the 7th IGC and reaffirmed their commitment to further expand and deepen the Indo-German Strategic Partnership. Chancellor Scholz thanked Prime Minister Modi for his warm hospitality and conveyed that Germany looks forward to hosting the next IGC.

     

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    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2068257) Visitor Counter : 69

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Lamont Declares State of Emergency Due to Critical Fire Weather Conditions Statewide

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    (HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that he has declared a state of emergency due to the critical fire weather conditions that exist throughout Connecticut, as well as the continued response to the brush fire at Lamentation Mountain in Berlin and Meriden, which is being commonly referred to as the Hawthorne Fire.

    “Over the last two months, Connecticut has experienced severely dry conditions and lack of rain, which has increased the threat of fire conditions and caused several fires to start throughout the state,” Governor Lamont said. “The filing of this declaration will help provide state and local emergency management officials with the necessary tools to monitor and limit the threat of potential fires, respond to active fires, and respond to any additional fires that may start. We are strongly urging all Connecticut residents to avoid any type of outdoor burning as the current conditions pose a high risk of fire danger.”

    As of the afternoon of Friday, October 25, 2024, there is no rain forecasted in Connecticut for at least the next 7 to 10 days. During the past week, the National Weather Service has issued several advisories regarding the fire conditions in the state, most notably a Red Flag Warning, which indicates that critical fire weather conditions are expected or are occurring.

    **Download: Governor Lamont’s declaration of civil preparedness emergency due to critical fire weather conditions

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Student Scholars Recognized by UConn Leadership

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Student success and the limitless potential of UConn College of Engineering (CoE) pupils were at the heart of a celebratory Undergraduate Scholarship Awards Reception held Thursday night at the UConn Alumni Center. 

    Donors, industry partners, faculty, and staff gathered to meet the 170+ students that received a scholarship for the 2024-2025 academic year. 

    Scholarships were made possible by community donors, emeritus faculty, industry representatives, and more. 

    “Scholarships like these reduce the need for our students to work off-campus, or pursue work study positions,” says Dean of Undergraduate Education Daniel Burkey. “They can fully focus on their studies, taking advantage of all UConn Engineering has to offer.” 

    Donors had the opportunity to meet the new UConn Engineering dean. 

    “Your critical scholarships enable us to attract and retain bright minds, and enrich our community with diverse perspectives and innovative ideas,” says JC Zhao. “It not only strengthens our college, but also impowers us to create a world filled with possibilities.”  

    Zhao shared his personal experiences with the transformative possibilities of education. He spent the first 10 years of his life living in a small village in China with no electricity.  

    “My education gave me opportunities I never dreamed of,” Zhao said. 

    He now holds three materials science and engineering degrees. 

    Students Lexi Fazzino and Charley Ma, both mechanical engineering majors, also spoke about the impact of these scholarships. 

    Fazzino explained her long-term interest in automotives, starting as a 3-year-old watching Jeep Wranglers driving past her house. 

    “For someone who spent most of their life believing they could never be in the automotive industry, I really do believe we are all so much more than we think we are,” Fazzino said. “I think I speak for everyone here, but I am beyond grateful for everything UConn has given me.” 

    Fazzino earned the Robert Jeffers Memorial Fund scholarship and the Pratt & Whitney Scholarship in Engineering. 

    This year’s event was a more casual affair, complete with a UConn Dairy Bar sundae bar and a networking bingo card for the students to connect with each other, donors, faculty, and staff. 

    A full list of the 2024 scholarship awardees is available online. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Quality of Care at UConn Health

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    The Institute of Medicine defines health care quality as care delivery that is safe, effective, efficient, equitable, timely, and patient centered. UConn Health has a team of quality experts that work with the common goal of improving the quality of care provided to our patients.

    Melissa Henretta MD, MPH, who joined UConn Health in May of this year in her role as Chief Quality Officer and director of the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, focuses on improving patient outcomes, implementing best practices in care, and fostering a culture of safety and excellence. Michelle DeLayo DNP, APRN, ACNP-BC, who has been at UConn Health since 1992 with her extensive background in nursing and critical care, brings a wealth of experience to the Quality Department, in her role as Nursing Director since 2018. Both are dedicated to improving healthcare standards and ensuring that patients receive the highest level of care.

    Henretta’s perspective on quality reflects a deep understanding of how comprehensive and continuous quality improvement must be in healthcare. She emphasizes that quality isn’t solely about achieving a Leapfrog grade—a popular benchmark for hospital safety—but about the numerous underlying factors that contribute to excellence in care. This approach helps ensure that improvements in quality are deeply ingrained in the system and not just superficial changes to meet external benchmarks.

    DeLayo highlights that UConn Health’s quality management system encompasses all these components from the Institute of Medicine, demonstrating a well-rounded approach to patient care. Having a team specifically dedicated to overseeing clinical outcomes through the lens of the six domains allows the institution to identify areas of opportunity and improve upon the care provided.

    Henretta notes that the entire UConn Health quality team is unified in their commitment to improving patient safety and quality. This shared mission creates a supportive environment where everyone, from doctors to nurses to administrative staff, is aligned on the same purpose—providing the best possible care for patients. She believes transparency is the key, reporting events as they occur to learn from those events, and understanding that patient care is improved when we are honest and transparent with ourselves and the programs we participate in.

    “Our hospital so believes in the importance of patient safety and quality that we have a daily multidisciplinary meeting to identify potential issues and problem-solve across services, for our hospital and patients,” says Henretta. “By discussing both safety concerns and quality of care on a regular basis, the team can proactively address challenges, reduce risks and enhance patient outcomes.”

    DeLayo underscores the critical role that senior leadership plays in healthcare quality. The fact that the leadership at UConn Health values and understands the importance of quality initiatives allowed the quality department to move forward with significant projects, such as the sepsis quality nurse program.

    This backing ensures that quality measures are prioritized and receive the necessary resources for implementation. For example, in 2018 DeLayo and the quality team identified concerns surrounding optimal care for sepsis patients. By approaching leadership with a well-thought-out plan, they were able to secure the support needed to implement changes introducing a specialized program to improve the care of sepsis patients. As a result, UConn Health has reduced readmissions and mortality, and compliance with the CMS SEP-1 core measure has improved from 28% in 2019 to 76% in 2023 and is currently 79% for Quarter 1 of 2024.

    Both Henretta and DeLayo agree that any discussion about quality and safety would be remiss not to mention Dr. Scott Allen, Chief Medical Officer, who was the first Chief Quality Officer for UConn Health.  He highlighted the importance of quality at UConn Health and has a deep institutional knowledge. Through his hands-on approach, he motivates others to continuously strive for improvement.

    “We are making sure our patients obtain the same care that we would want our loved ones to obtain,” says Henretta.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Olana State Historic Site Opens New Center for Art & Landscape

    Source: US State of New York

    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the opening of the Frederic Church Center for Art and Landscape, a new entry and orientation facility at the historic site in Hudson, Columbia County. The Frederic Church Center will be a welcoming gateway for all visitors to Olana State Historic Site, making all 250 acres of the historic landscape an integral part of the visitor experience. This sustainably designed, all-electric building is the first structure built at Olana since Church’s lifetime.

    “Olana State Historic Site is one of the Hudson Valley’s most striking destinations, drawing visitors from around the world,” Governor Hochul said. “With the opening of the Frederic Church Center, even more residents and visitors can fully experience the work of one of our nation’s most visionary artists right here in New York State.

    Olana is the 19th century home, studio and designed landscape of Hudson River School artist, Frederic Edwin Church. The Frederic Church Center is the keystone of the award-winning Strategic Landscape Design Plan completed in 2015 by New York State Parks, The Olana Partnership (TOP), the LA Group and Nelson, Byrd Woltz Landscape Architects (NBW). The plan received the 2017 National Honor Award for Analysis and Planning from the American Society of Landscape Architects.

    Designed by Architecture Research Office (ARO) and Nelson Byrd Woltz Landscape Architects (NBW), the Frederic Church Center includes a spacious entry lobby for ticketing and orientation, a café, gender neutral restrooms and a multipurpose room adjoining outdoor terraces and paths that connect to Olana’s historic carriage road network. As the principal entry point for a National Historic Landmark and New York State Historic Site that attracts over 200,000 visitors annually, the Frederic Church Center will provide a highly visible, publicly accessible demonstration of sustainable design and carbon neutral construction.

    The more than $18 million construction project is funded through about $11.8M in initial investments of OPRHP capital funds, nearly $5 million from TOP and $1 million from Assemblymember Didi Barrett and Speaker Carl Heastie. Commitments of $1.4 million Empire State Development Market NY Regional Tourism Grant and $1.8 million from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority’s (NYSERDA) Carbon Neutral Community Economic Development Grant Program will be leveraged to offset initial investments. TOP has also contributed an additional $5 million in private donations to fund exhibits and furnishings.

    New York State Parks Commissioner Pro Tem Randy Simons said, “Today we celebrate not just the opening of the new Frederic Church Center, but the power of public-private partnerships within our State Park system. We are thrilled to officially open this beautiful facility, a testament to our shared commitment to preserving and enhancing our natural spaces. This is a true milestone for our park and all those who treasure the Olana State Historic Site.”

    The Olana Partnership President Dr. Sean Sawyer said, “This is a landmark day for Olana and the public-private partnership that has stewarded the site for the past 53 years. The Olana Partnership has engaged private supporters from across the country to raise $13 million in private donations to build and endow the Frederic Church Center. TOP has also brought other New York State public funders into the project to create a carbon neutral structure that will fuel the local economy and job development.”

    The Frederic Church Center is estimated to boost Olana’s annual economic impact in the Capital Region by 17 percent to $15.7 million and to increase the number of jobs supported to 240, a 28 percent increase.

    State Senator Michelle Hinchey said, “As one of the central figures of the Hudson River School of American landscape painters, Frederic Edwin Church played a vital role in sparking the early environmental movement by capturing the beauty of our region and sharing it with the world. The legacy of this iconic period lives on at the Olana State Historic Site in Hudson — an important economic driver that will be further enhanced by the new Frederic Church Center for Art and Landscape. I’m proud to support this exciting investment and know it will elevate Olana’s impact and the profile of the Hudson Valley as a destination for cultural tourism.”

    Assemblymember Didi Barrett said, “The stunning, zero-emission and mass-timber Frederic Church Center for Art and Landscape at Olana State Historic Site is a fitting 21st century tribute to the visionary 19th century Hudson River School painter, environmentalist, architect, landscape designer and farmer as it welcomes residents and visitors from across the globe to New York State’s beautiful Hudson Valley. I am proud to have partnered with Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie to secure an historic $1 million grant for this project, and it is an honor to join Governor Hochul and Commissioner Simons for today’s ribbon cutting celebration.”

    NYSERDA President and CEO Doreen M. Harris said, “The new all-electric building at Olana State Historic Site is an example of how New York State is complementing renowned destinations with zero-emission building solutions. This project is another step towards building a better, more sustainable future as the new welcome facility not only enhances an already desirable experience in the Hudson Valley, but serves as a model for public-private partnerships at work.”

    Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “The new Frederic Church Center for Art and Landscape is a sustainable modern portal that will welcome, introduce and enrich visitors to Olana and its timeless Hudson River vista. This project furthers our commitment to the State’s dynamic tourism economy, which is strengthened by investing in New York’s unparalleled palette of arts and culture offerings.”

    Empire State Development Vice President and Executive Director of Tourism Ross D. Levi said, “The new Frederic Church Center for Art and Landscape is an exciting addition to what is already a must see destination in Olana State Historic Site. With a new on-site location for guests to eat, enjoy unparalleled views and learn about the world famous Hudson River School of Art, visitors can spend more time enjoying this landscaping and architectural marvel. We hope this impressive new welcome experience brings even more people from around the world to Olana and encourages them to extend their stay to enjoy delicious cuisine, relaxing accommodations and a variety of cultural destinations in the surrounding Hudson Valley, making it easy to love New York.”

    The design of the new Frederic Church Center features a whole building systems approach to achieve a low environmental impact and reduced energy consumption with minimal maintenance. The building is expected to expand Olana’s visitor capacity by serving as a base for sitewide interpretive programming and recreational use. Work also included new wayfinding signage throughout the site and critical improvements to existing infrastructure.

    NBW Senior Principal Thomas Woltz said, “Our work with Olana has focused on restoring the landscape to Church’s original intent, while updating it to best serve today’s growing audiences. Strategically sited to protect historic viewsheds and minimize impact on the site, the Center will serve as an expression of Church’s vision for new generations of visitors.”

    ARO Principal Adam Yarinsky said, “Our goal for the Frederic Church Center was to create a space that harmonizes art and architecture with the natural beauty that inspired Church’s work. Every design decision was made with the landscape in mind, from the materials we selected to the way the building nestles into the site.”

    ARO Principal Kim Yao said, “We wanted the Center to serve as a place for both reflection and engagement. The design invites visitors to experience Olana as an immersive, living work of art.”

    The Olana Partnership is a 501(c)(3) non-profit partner of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation at Olana State Historic Site. TOP’s mission is to inspire the public by preserving and interpreting Frederic Church’s Olana, a New York State Historic Site and National Historic Landmark within the Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area. The Olana Partnership envisions Olana as vibrant with the activity of visitors, students, scholars and artists, as the most widely recognized artist’s home and studio in the world.

    The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees more than 250 parks, historic sites, recreational trails, golf courses, boat launches and more, which saw a record 84 million visits in 2023. For more information on any of these recreation areas, visit the New York State Office  of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation website and download the free NY State Parks Explorer app or call 518-474-0456. Join us in celebrating our Centennial throughout 2024, and connect with us on Facebook,  Instagram, X (formerly Twitter) and the OPRHP Blog.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Middle East and Ukraine are focus of Ignazio Cassis’ trip to North America

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in English

    Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, the head of the FDFA, will spend two days in the United States and Canada on 29 and 30 October 2024. As part of Switzerland’s October presidency of the UN Security Council, he will chair a high-level debate on the Middle East in New York on 29 October. From there, he will travel on to Montreal, where a follow-up conference to the June 2024 Summit for Peace in Ukraine at the Bürgenstock resort will be held on 30 October. In Montreal, the focus will be on humanitarian aspects in connection with the search for a peaceful solution to the conflict. Mr. Cassis will hold bilateral talks in Montreal, including with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Peters Leads Senate Colleagues in Urging Stellantis to Keep Its Promises to UAW Autoworkers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters
    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI) led a group of 21 colleagues in urging Stellantis to keep promises it made to its autoworkers. In a letter to Stellantis CEO Carlos Taveras, the senators expressed the need for the automotive manufacturing company to honor the collective bargaining agreement signed last year with the United Auto Workers (UAW) and deliver on its commitments to strengthen and expand good-paying union jobs in America.
    “We are writing to express our growing concerns about the failure of Stellantis, under your leadership, to honor the commitments it made to the United Auto Workers (UAW) in last year’s collective bargaining agreement,” wrote the senators. “We urge Stellantis not to renege on the promises it made to American autoworkers and to provide details on the timelines for these investments.”
    In the contract ratified last year, Stellantis committed to: 
    Make nearly $19 billion in new investments and product commitments in the U.S.
    Continue to manufacture the Dodge Durango in Detroit through 2025.
    Manufacture the next generation Dodge Durango in Detroit starting in 2026.
    Re-open the plant in Belvidere, Illinois that was “indefinitely idled” last year.
    Establish a parts and customer care Mega Hub in Belvidere.
    Instead, Stellantis has taken actions that undermine the obligations made to the UAW and leave “behind thousands of American workers who built the company into the auto giant it is today,” wrote the senators. These actions may include plans to move production of the next generation Dodge Durango out of the U.S. and into “low-cost” countries like Mexico, as well as delaying planned investments to reopen and expand the Belvidere assembly plant. 
    This year, Stellantis has spent over $8 billion on stock buybacks and dividends to benefit its wealthy executives and stockholders. During the first six months of this year, Stellantis has generated over $6 billion in profits, making it one of the most profitable auto companies in the world. The company has also benefited from billions of dollars in financial assistance from American taxpayers and the federal government. In July, the Department of Energy announced Stellantis would receive nearly $335 million in federal dollars to support Belvidere Assembly Plant’s conversion to electric vehicle production.
    “We believe that if Stellantis can afford to spend over $8 billion this year on stock buybacks and dividends, it can live up to the contractual commitments it made to the UAW,” wrote the senators. “This is especially true given the billions of dollars in financial assistance American taxpayers have spent to support your company and the enormous sacrifices autoworkers have been forced to make over many decades.”
    Joining Peters on the letter are Senators Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Laphonza Butler (D- CA), Bob Casey (D-PA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Richard Durbin (D-IL), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ed Markey (D-MA), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Jack Reed (D-RI), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), and Tina Smith (D-MN).
    Peters grew up in a union household, where his mother was a Service Employees International Union (SEIU) steward and his father was a member of the National Education Association (NEA). Peters is a proud cosponsor of and has urged Congress to pass the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act, which would strengthen the federal laws that protect workers’ right to form a union freely and fairly. During UAW negotiations last year, Peters met with United Auto Workers (UAW) members in Lansing to show his support and discuss priorities that are important to autoworkers. Peters also joined UAW members on the picket line across Michigan as they negotiated for better wages, benefits, and job security. Following the UAW’s historic contracts last fall, Peters led his colleagues in sending a letter to 13 non-unionized automakers urging them not to illegally block UAW unionization efforts at their manufacturing plants. Peters was joined by UAW Region 1 Director LaShawn English as his guest for President Biden’s State of the Union Address earlier this year.
    Text of the letter can be found here and below.
    Dear Mr. Tavares:
    We are writing to express our growing concerns about the failure of Stellantis, under your leadership, to honor the commitments it made to the United Auto Workers (UAW) in last year’s collective bargaining agreement.
    In that contract, ratified by UAW members, Stellantis committed to “establish long-term stability and job security” for its workforce. The agreement includes nearly $19 billion in new investment and product commitments in the United States, including promises to:
    · Re-open the plant in Belvidere, Illinois that was “indefinitely idled” last year;
    · Establish a parts and customer care Mega Hub in Belvidere;
    · Continue to manufacture the Dodge Durango in Detroit through 2025; and
    · Manufacture the next generation Dodge Durango in Detroit starting in 2026.
    We are deeply concerned that Stellantis is not keeping the promises it made to strengthen and expand good paying-union jobs in America.
    Specifically, Stellantis is now delaying planned investments to reopen and expand the Belvidere assembly plant, leaving behind thousands of American workers who built the company into the auto giant it is today. We are also concerned with reporting that Stellantis is planning to move production of the next generation Dodge Durango out of the United States, after previously announcing layoffs that threaten the economic security and well-being of thousands of autoworkers. Moreover, Stellantis has stated publicly that it plans to source 80% of supply from “low-cost countries” like Mexico. By your own admission, Stellantis’s growth plan hinges on shifting “industrial production into cost competitive countries” like Mexico, where workers are making substandard wages. These actions violate the obligations Stellantis made to the UAW. We urge Stellantis not to renege on the promises it made to American autoworkers and to provide details on the timelines for these investments.
    This year, Stellantis has spent over $8 billion on stock buybacks and dividends to benefit its wealthy executives and stockholders. Last year, while blue collar auto workers in Belvidere were being laid off indefinitely, you were able to receive a 56 percent pay raise boosting your total compensation to $39.5 million, which made you the highest paid executive among traditional auto companies. During the first six months of this year, Stellantis has generated over $6 billion in profits, making it one of the most profitable auto companies in the world.
    We believe that if Stellantis can afford to spend over $8 billion this year on stock buybacks and dividends, it can and it must live up to the contractual commitments it made to the UAW. This is especially true given the billions of dollars in financial assistance American taxpayers have spent to support your company and the enormous sacrifices autoworkers have been forced to make over many decades.
    For example, the Department of Energy announced in July that nearly $335 million in federal dollars would be going to supporting Belvidere Assembly Plant’s conversion to electric vehicle production. With hundreds of millions of dollars of federal support going towards ensuring strong union jobs stay in the U.S., Stellantis must honor the promises it made to UAW workers and the Belvidere community.
    We urge you to deliver on the commitments you made to the UAW in your 2023 national agreement without further delay.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: VA Secretary Denis McDonough Celebrates the Positive Impact of VA Chaplain Care

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

    Close to 1,000 VA spiritual care providers, called chaplains, serve our nation’s Veterans, their families, caregivers, and VA employees. In this video, Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs, Denis McDonough, pays tribute to VA chaplains—selfless servants who serve all Veterans—those who hold religious or spiritual beliefs and those who do not.

    Secretary McDonough recounts, during one of his first site visits of his tenure, running into one of those VA chaplains at the St. Cloud, Minnesota VA. He didn’t recognize the chaplain at first, but this VA chaplain knew Secretary McDonough from his time as an undergraduate at St. John’s University. The chaplain recounted to the Secretary, “VA’s respect for all Veterans fit his Benedictine heritage and values perfectly. Every Veteran is seen as a person, he said, worthy of the highest level of respect and care because of having said yes to serving our country.

    Whether you are a person of faith or not, this tribute will help you appreciate that VA chaplains uphold the dignity of every person they encounter;
    they care for all
    Veterans with compassion, love, and grace.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3iTFk1S_sWs

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Tribal Colleges and Universities Planning for Clean Energy Transition FOA Webinar

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

    The DOE Office of Indian Energy held an informational webinar on October 17, 2024 (3-5:00 p.m. ET) to provide information on the Tribal Colleges and Universities Planning for Clean Energy Transition – 2025 (DE-FOA-0003403) funding opportunity announcement (FOA) to potential applicants.

    In addition to describing the FOA, information was provided on who is eligible to apply, what an application needs to include, cost share and other requirements, how to ask questions, and how applications will be selected for funding.

    Learn more at: https://www.energy.gov/indianenergy/articles/us-department-energy-announces-over-9-million-funding-and-prizes-tribal

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pylhLl-2vc0

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: 30 Days After Helene: Helping Survivors

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

    Helping people is the core of FEMA’s mission and has been our focus since day one.

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

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: 30 Days After Helene: Whole of Community Response

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

    Recovery doesn’t happen without the help of our partners. Nonprofits, faith-based organizations and community groups have all come together to assist affected communities.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_6LqNO1u3mk

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Preventing 50,000 lbs of Fentanyl From Entering the Country and Our Communities | CBP

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

    Every day, in communities around the nation, it is estimated that synthetic drugs like illicit fentanyl are taking the lives of more than 200 Americans. Fentanyl is extremely potent and incredibly dangerous. Just 2 milligrams – the size of a few grains of sand – can lead to an overdose. CBP is committed to stopping the flow of fentanyl and the devastation it is wreaking on American lives and communities.

    Frontline Against Fentanyl ➤
    https://www.cbp.gov/border-security/frontline-against-fentanyl

    Instagram ➤ https://instagram.com/CBPgov
    Facebook ➤ https://facebook.com/CBPgov
    Twitter ➤ https://twitter.com/CBP
    Official Website ➤ https://www.cbp.gov

    #cbp
    #fentanyl
    #bordersecurity
    #lawenforcement
    #narcos

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3IIOJChAsqo

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: FFF Gleaning Video 2024

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

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q8WYpLx3E2c

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kean Fighting to Restore Memorial Pond in Mount Arlington

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07)

    (October 25, 2024) BOROUGH OF MOUNT ARLINGTON, NJ – Yesterday, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) toured Memorial Pond to gain insight into the critical need for renovations ahead of the FY25 appropriations discussion. Congressman Kean is advocating for $560,000 in the FY25 appropriation process to benefit the Borough of Mount Arlington. The funding will be used for data collection and analysis of the sediment, surveying, engineering, regulatory requirements, and dredging of Memorial Pond. The dredging involves pumping the sediment through a pipeline into geotubes. This funding has passed the House Appropriations Committee.  

    “In our ongoing efforts to both protect and enhance our community’s natural resources, I am advocating for $560,000 in the FY25 appropriations to support vital renovations at Memorial Pond,” said Congressman Kean. “My recent tour and conversations with local stakeholders and leaders reinforced the importance this funding. These resources will be used for data collection, engineering assessments, and the dredging process itself. This project is not just about maintaining a beautiful space; it’s about ensuring the ecological health of our environment for future generations. By investing in Memorial Pond, we are making a commitment to the well-being of the Borough of Mount Arlington and fostering a sustainable community.” 

    “This is a fantastic project that will have a positive impact on the quality of the water, not only in Memorial Pond and at our town beach, but in Lake Hopatcong as a whole,” said Michael Stanzilis, Mayor of Mount Arlington Borough. “Congressman Kean has worked hard to protect the environment and the quality of water both in and around Lake Hopatcong and Mount Arlington.” 

    “We are incredibly grateful to Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. for visiting Lake Hopatcong and for his support of projects meant to improve the water quality of our lake, including the vital dredging of Memorial Pond in Mount Arlington,” said Kyle Richter, Executive Director of the Lake Hopatcong Foundation. “His commitment to protecting and preserving our natural resources ensures a healthier future for our community and the generations to come.”  

    Congressman Kean requested 15 projects in this year’s appropriation process. To view the full list, click HERE.     

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pressley Applauds Biden-Harris Admin’s Student Debt Relief for Borrowers Experiencing Hardship

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07)

    Proposed Rules Would Authorize Debt Relief to Nearly 8 Million Borrowers Struggling with High Medical Costs, Childcare Costs, and Other Hardships

    Pressley Has Repeatedly Called Upon and Partnered with White House to Center Struggling Borrowers in Student Debt Cancellation Efforts

    BOSTON – Today, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) applauded the release of the Biden-Harris Administration’s proposed rules to authorize student debt relief to nearly 8 million borrowers experiencing financial hardship. The new rules, which are expected to be published in the coming weeks, follows repeated calls by Rep. Pressley and her colleagues to ensure borrowers experiencing hardship receive the student debt cancellation they need.

    “Government works best when it solves problems and alleviates hardships for the people it serves, and this proposed rule to cancel the student debt for millions of additional borrowers is a powerful example of how the Biden-Harris Administration continues to do just that,” said Congresswoman Pressley. “This will have a lasting and life-changing impact for millions of borrowers who are struggling to balance student loan payments and medical bills, childcare costs, caregiving expenses, and more. The automatic cancellation provision is particularly notable and responsive to calls from borrowers and advocates alike. I thank President Biden, Vice President Harris, and Secretary Cardona for their partnership and continuing to advance student debt cancellation despite Republicans’ efforts to obstruct this relief at every turn. This is the type of leadership we need in this moment.”

    These proposed regulations would reach borrowers with persistent financial burdens that prevent them from repaying their student loans and who do not sufficiently benefit from other currently available forgiveness options. Such financial burdens could include unexpected medical bills, high child care costs, significant expenses related to caring for loved ones with chronic illnesses, or devastating economic circumstances from the impacts of a natural disaster.  

    More information about U.S. Department of Education’s new rule is available here.

    Rep. Pressley has been a leading voice in Congress urging President Biden to cancel student debt. Following years of advocacy by Rep. Pressley—in partnership with colleagues, borrowers, and advocates—the Biden-Harris Administration announced a historic plan to cancel student debt that stands to benefit over 40 million people. She has consistently helped borrowers access student debt cancellation resources, including PSLF, and she was proud to welcome a union educator and PSLF recipient as her guest to President Biden’s State of the Union Address in March.

    • On October 18, 2024, Rep. Pressley applauded the Biden-Harris Administration’s approval of approximately $4.5 billion in additional student debt cancellation for approximately 60,000 workers nationwide who work in public service.
    • On October 2, 2024, Rep. Pressley joined borrowers and advocates to unveil new state-by-state data quantifying the harm that Project 2025 would have on millions of public service workers nationwide.
    • On September 10, 2024, Rep. Pressley joined Senator Warren and Rep. Jim Clyburn in urging the U.S. Department of Education to consider terminating its contract with student loan servicer MOHELA.
    • On August 29, Rep. Pressley issued a statement following the Supreme Court’s refusal to reinstate President Biden’s Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) student debt relief program.
    • On August 9, 2024, Rep. Pressley joined Senator Warren, Representative Dean, and their colleagues urging student loan servicer Navient to reform its flawed process to cancel the private student loans of borrowers who attended fraudulent, for-profit colleges.
    • On June 25, 2024, Rep. Pressley issued a statement on federal judges in Missouri and Kansas siding with Republican states to block portions of President Biden’s Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) student debt relief program. 
    • On June 25, 2024, Rep. Pressley colleagues, borrowers, and advocates urged the Biden Administration to terminate the contract of federal student loan servicer MOHELA. Their calls follow MOHELA’s repeated failure to perform basic loan servicing functions and ongoing harm caused by MOHELA to student loan borrowers.
    • On May 20, 2024, Rep. Pressley, along with Reps. Omar, Clyburn and Wilson, led their colleagues in urging the U.S. Department of Education to ensure its proposed student debt relief rule is implemented in the most effective and efficient manner possible for millions of borrowers.
    • On May 1, 2024, Rep. Pressley issued a statement applauding the Biden Administration’s approval of student loan discharge for 317,000 borrowers who attended The Art Institutes, including over 3,500 borrowers in Massachusetts.
    • On April 14, 2024, Rep. Pressley applauded President Biden’s approval of an additional $7.4 billion in student debt cancellation for 277,000 borrowers.
    • On April 8, 2024, Rep. Pressley hailed President Biden’s announcement of new plans to provide student debt relief for tens of millions of borrowers across the country.
    • On March 21, 2024, Rep. Pressley applauded the Biden-Harris Administration’s approval of $5.8 billion in additional student loan debt cancellation for 77,700 public service workers.
    • On March 20, 2024, Rep. Pressley and Senator Elizabeth Warren led their colleagues in calling on federal agencies to end the practice of offsetting Social Security benefits to pay off defaulted student loans.
    • On March 7, 2024, Rep. Pressley welcomed Priscilla Higuera Valentine, a first generation American, a proud union educator with Boston Public Schools and the Boston Teachers Union, and the daughter of a Colombian immigrant, who has received over $117,000 in student debt relief under the Biden-Harris Administration’s improved Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program, as her guest to President Biden’s State of the Union Address.
    • On February 23, 2024, Rep. Pressley applauded the Biden-Harris Administration’s approval of $1.2 billion in student debt cancellation for nearly 153,000 borrowers nationwide, including $19.5 million in cancellation for 2,490 Massachusetts borrowers.
    • On January 26, 2024, Rep. Pressley and Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) led their colleagues in calling on the Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona to host a fourth session of the student debt negotiated rulemaking to consider relief for borrowers experiencing financial hardship. She applauded ED’s announcement that it would heed their calls.
    • On December 11, 2023, Rep. Pressley testified at the U.S. Department of Education’s final hearing on student debt cancellation.
    • On December 11, 2023, Rep. Pressley and Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), along with Senators Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Alex Padilla (D-CA), and Representatives Ilhan Omar (MN-05) and Frederica Wilson (FL-24), sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona, urging him to leverage his existing and full authority under the Higher Education Act to provide expanded student debt relief to working and middle-class borrowers. 
    • On November 30, 2023, Rep. Pressley emphasized the crucial role of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) in protecting student loan borrowers from incompetent and predatory student loan servicers.
    • On November 6, 2023, Rep. Pressley joined Attorney General Andrea Campbell, Mayor Michelle Wu, and Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) for a clinic to help federal student loan borrowers access a temporary opportunity to get closer to Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF). 
    • On September 25, 2023, Rep. Pressley hosted a policy discussion with borrowers and advocates at which they renewed their urgent call for student debt cancellation with loan payments set to resume on October 1, 2023.
    • On August 23, 2023, Rep. Pressley, Sen. Warren, and their colleagues led over 80 lawmakers in a letter to President Joe Biden, urging him to swiftly deliver on his promise to deliver student debt cancellation to working and middle class families by early 2024. 
    • On August 22, 2023 Rep. Pressley applauded Governor Maura Healey’s plan to provide student debt relief for health care workers in Massachusetts. 
    • On June 30, 2023, Rep. Pressley responded to the President’s alternative proposal to deliver relief under the Higher Education Act and called for swift and efficient implementation.
    • On June 30, 2023, Rep. Pressley issued a statement slamming the Supreme Court’s decision to block President Biden’s student debt cancellation plan and calling on the President to use other tools available to swiftly cancel student debt.
    • On May 30, 2023, Rep. Pressley filed an amendment to H.R. 3746, legislation to raise the debt ceiling, to protect student loan borrowers and preserve the Biden Administration’s pause on federal student loan payments.
    • On May 24, 2023, Rep. Pressley issued a statement slamming Republicans’ harmful effort to overturn President Biden’s student debt relief, including his debt cancellation plan, the pause on student loan payments, and the expanded Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.
    • On May 24, 2023, Rep. Pressley delivered a powerful speech in support of President Biden’s plan to cancel student debt, which would benefit millions of people across the country.
    • On April 5, 2023, Rep. Pressley and Senator Elizabeth Warren wrote to the CEO of SoFi Technologies and SoFi Lending Corp calling on the company to answer for its lawsuits attempting to end the student loan payment pause and force borrowers back into repayment.
    • On March 7, 2023, Rep. Pressley, along with Sens. Warren, Schumer, Sanders, Padilla and Reps. Clyburn, Omar and Wilson led a letter to the Biden Administration expressing continued support for President Biden’s student debt relief plan.
    • On February 28, 2023, Rep. Pressley rallied with borrowers and advocates outside the Supreme Court to call on the Supreme Court to affirm the legality of President Biden’s student debt cancellation plan.
    • On November 22, 2022, Rep. Pressley issued a statement applauding the extension of the student loan payment pause.
    • On October 25, 2022, Rep. Pressley and Senator Warren toured communities across Massachusetts to celebrate the Biden administration’s student debt cancellation plan and help residents sign up for student loan relief.
    • On October 12, 2022, Rep. Pressley joined parent borrowers and advocates for a discussion on the impacts of student debt cancellation on parents and families.
    • On September 29, 2022, Rep. Pressley, along with Senate Majority Leader Schumer and Reps. Omar, Jones and advocates, held a press conference to call for swift and equitable implementation of President Biden’s student debt cancellation plan.
    • On September 21, 2022, Rep. Pressley delivered a powerful speech on the House floor in which she heralded President Biden’s action to cancel student debt for millions of families in the Massachusetts 7th and across the nation. Watch the full video here.
    • On September 12, 2022, Rep. Pressley and Senator Warren wrote to the nine federal student loan servicers to inquire about how they are providing borrowers with accurate and timely information about student loan cancellation.
    • On August 24, 2022, Congresswoman Pressley issued a statement applauding President Biden’s action to cancel student debt.
    • On August 10, 2022, Congresswoman Pressley and Senator Warren Massachusetts joined Massachusetts union leaders in Dorchester for a roundtable discussion on student debt cancellation.
    • On July 18, 2022, Congresswoman Pressley delivered remarks at the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) national convention and renewed her calls for President Biden to cancel student debt by executive action.
    • On July 8, 2022, Congresswoman Pressley with The Debt Collective hosted a virtual roundtable with student debt holders from all walks of life to highlight the intersectional burden the nearly $2 trillion student debt crisis has had on individuals and families. 
    • On June 22, 2022, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley, with Senator Elizabeth Warren and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, joined AFL-CIO and union leaders for a roundtable discussion on the importance of student debt cancellation for American workers.
    • On May 20, 2022, Congresswoman Pressley applauded the Congressional Black Caucus’ (CBC) statement calling on President Biden to cancel student loan debt.
    • On May 4, 2022, Congresswoman Pressley visited Bunker Hill Community College to celebrate the $1 million in federal community project funding she secured and continued her calls for President Biden to cancel student debt.
    • On March 17, 2022, Congresswoman Pressley and Arisha Hatch, vice president and chief of campaigns at Color of Change, published an op-ed in Grio calling on President Biden to use his executive order authority to cancel up to $50,000 in student loan debt per borrower.
    • On December 8, 2021, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley, Senator Elizabeth Warren, and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer sent a bicameral letter to President Joe Biden releasing new data about the adverse impact of restarting student loan payments and calling on him to act to cancel up to $50,000 of student debt.
    • On December 2, 2021, Congresswoman Pressley delivered remarks on the House floor in which she reiterated her calls for President Biden to cancel $50,000 in federal student loan debt by executive action.
    • On October 8, 2021, Representatives Ayanna Pressley and Ilhan Omar and their House colleagues sent a letter to President Biden and Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona urging him to release the memo to determine the extent of the administration’s authority to broadly cancel student debt through administrative action.
    • On July 29, 2021, Congresswoman Pressley issued a statement reaffirming President Biden’s authority – and the urgency – to cancel student loan debt.
    • On June 23, 2021, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley, Senator Elizabeth Warren, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, and Congressman Joe Courtney led their colleagues on a bicameral letter to President Biden calling on him to extend the pause on federal student loan payments.
    • On April 13, 2021, Congresswoman Pressley testified at a Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee’s Subcommittee on Economic Policy hearing to examine the student loan debt crisis in our country.
    • On April 1, 2021, Congresswoman Pressley, along with Senator Elizabeth Warren and Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey, held a press conference calling on President Biden to tackle the student loan debt crisis.
    • On February 4, 2021, Congresswoman Pressley, along with several Democratic House and Senate leaders, led their colleagues in reintroducing a bicameral resolution outlining a bold plan for President Biden to tackle the student loan debt crisis. 
    • On December 17, 2020, Representatives Ayanna Pressley, Ilhan Omar, Maxine Waters, and Alma Adams introduced a resolution outlining a bold plan for President-elect Joe Biden to cancel up to $50,000 in Federal student loan debt for student loan borrowers.
    • On December 10, 2020, Congresswoman Pressley was in Yahoo Finance urging the Biden administration to cancel student debt, stressing the impact on Black borrowers.
    • On May 8, 2020, Representatives Ayanna Pressley, Alma Adams, and Ilhan Omar, led 28 of their colleagues and sent a letter to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy calling for the universal, one-time, student debt cancellation of at least $30,000 per borrower in the next round of COVID-19 relief legislation.
    • On March 23, 2020, Representatives Ayanna Pressley and Ilhan Omar introduced the Student Debt Emergency Relief Act, legislation that provides immediate monthly payment relief for federal student loan borrowers.
    • On March 17, 2020, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley and Senator Elizabeth Warren were on The Hill calling on congressional leadership to include student debt cancellation in the next coronavirus relief package.
    • On October 11, 2019, Congresswoman Pressley introduced legislation – the Ending Debt Collection Harassment Act – to protect consumers from abusive debt collection.
    • On July 17, 2019, Congresswomen Pressley introduced legislation – the Student Borrower Credit Improvement Act – to provide much needed support to private student loan borrowers with a pathway to financial stability by helping them improve their credit.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen, Boyle Lead Bicameral Letter Urging U.S. Department of Education to Support Borrowers While SAVE Student Debt Plan Undergoes Litigation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen
    (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and U.S. Congressman Brendan Boyle (PA-02) are leading a group of 65 lawmakers in a bicameral letter urging the U.S. Department of Education to take further steps to support borrowers affected by ongoing litigation over President Joe Biden’s Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) Plan for student loan repayment and to be prepared with a plan for all possible judicial outcomes. In their letter to Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona, the lawmakers note that borrowers in the process of pursuing Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) have been particularly impacted by disruptions to their ability to complete the necessary payments to qualify for loan forgiveness.
    The lawmakers wrote, in part: “Eight million SAVE Plan participants are facing uncertainty after the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals halted implementation of the SAVE Plan. While we recognize the Department of Education’s efforts to avoid penalizing borrowers by putting their accounts into forbearance, we remain concerned about the numerous challenges borrowers continue to face.”
    The lawmakers continued: “In particular, for those borrowers in the process of pursuing Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), the current period of forbearance and accompanying disruptions in loan servicing create uncertainty for the status of their loan forgiveness eligibility and financial future. […] Unfortunately, our constituents report hearing conflicting information from servicers about whether any income-driven repayment plan applications are being accepted and processed. As a result, these borrowers are locked out of making progress toward the qualifying 120 monthly payments for PSLF eligibility even as they continue to serve our communities.”
    They concluded: “For these and other borrowers currently enrolled in the SAVE plan, we remain concerned about the importance of ensuring that all borrowers have adequate support and information to successfully navigate student loan repayment as litigation continues. The Department must also ensure that it has sufficient plans in place to facilitate a successful and immediate transition for affected borrowers should the final judicial ruling ultimately prevent implementation of the SAVE plan. The Department’s plans should include preparing the necessary guidance for borrowers, adjusting contracts and issuing new regulations as needed. Given the instability created by the court’s ruling and the resulting widespread impact on borrowers, it is clearly in the public’s interest for the Department to move quickly as possible to be prepared for any potential judicial outcome.”
    The letter is co-signed by 20 U.S. Senators and 45 U.S. Representatives.
    The full text of the letter can be found here.
    Senator Shaheen has led efforts in Congress to help students manage their debt and to make college more affordable, championing legislation to increase access to higher education for Granite Staters. Earlier this year, Shaheen reintroduced the bipartisan Student Protection and Success Act to address the mounting student debt crisis by increasing higher education institutions’ accountability for their students’ ability to repay their loans and requiring institutions to have a vested interest in the success of their students. She has previously introduced the Simplifying Access to Student Loan Information Act, which calls for the development of a central online portal to allow students to review all their public and private student loans, as well as repayment options, in one place. Shaheen has also previously introduced other legislation to aid undergraduate borrowers and successfully ushered her legislation with Senators Baldwin (D-WI), Braun (R-IN) and Fischer (R-NE) to combat student debt relief scams through Congress. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Shaheen led and supported numerous efforts to provide necessary relief to students and their families to afford college and other higher education opportunities. Shaheen is also helping to reintroduce legislation that would double the Pell Grant award and make college more affordable.   

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Klobuchar Awarded the National Guard Association’s Montgomery Medal

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Minnesota Amy Klobuchar
    MINNEAPOLIS – U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) was awarded the Montgomery Medal from the National Guard Association of the United States (NAGUS). The Montgomery Medal recognizes individuals or organizations who provide outstanding support to the NGAUS. Senator Klobuchar is receiving the award for championing issues important to National Guardsmen and veterans, such as bolstering the “Beyond the Yellow Ribbon” program, helping pass the historic PACT Act to ensure veterans exposed to toxic substances get the healthcare they need, and investments into the National Guard’s readiness and operational capabilities. At the presentation ceremony, NGAUS Minnesota Chapter President Chief Warrant Officer (CWO) 5 Brett Setterlund presented Klobuchar with the medal. Klobuchar, Minnesota National Guard Major General Shawn Manke, and CWO 5 Setterlund delivered remarks.  
    “It’s a privilege to receive the Montgomery Medal from the National Guard Association,” said Klobuchar. “The men and women of the National Guard put everything on the line when they put on the uniform, and we owe them a debt we can never fully repay. That’s why I’ve fought to provide them with the resources and support they need to keep our state and our nation safe.”
    Colonel Jamie Lindman read the following citation at the award ceremony:
    For her exceptional leadership, dedication, and unwavering support for the Minnesota National Guard, Senator Amy Klobuchar is awarded the Montgomery Medal. Her commitment to the welfare of Soldiers, Airmen, and their families is exemplified through her tireless advocacy and legislative achievements. Senator Klobuchar’s profound impact on the lives of National Guard members is evident in her comprehensive approach to support and promote our service. 
    She spearheaded the development of the “Beyond the Yellow Ribbon” program, transforming it into a national model that provides crucial support to service members reintegrating into civilian life. Her advocacy for improving childcare access and championing PACT Act legislation to address toxic exposure demonstrates her commitment to enhancing the quality of life for military families. Senator Klobuchar’s leadership in modernizing the National Guard has been instrumental in securing advancements that enhance readiness and operational capabilities. From securing new aircraft for both the 148th Fighter Wing and 133rd Airlift Wings to advocating for infrastructure improvements at Camp Ripley Training Center, her efforts ensure the Guard remains a critical asset to our nation’s defense. Her dedication to fostering partnerships locally and globally strengthens the Guard’s capabilities and interoperability with international allies. Her support for initiatives like the State Partnership Program with Norway underscores her commitment to enhancing strategic military ties and improving readiness for joint operations. Senator Klobuchar exemplifies the values of service, leadership, and dedication and leaves an indelible mark on the Department of Defense, the National Guard Association of the United States, and the Minnesota National Guard.
    Read the full citation HERE.
    As a member of the National Guard Caucus, Senator Klobuchar is a leading advocate in the Senate for the National Guard.
    Since her election to the Senate, Klobuchar has fought to secure regular funding to extend and expand to the national level Minnesota’s pioneering Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Program. Beyond the Yellow Ribbon helps soldiers transition from military to civilian life through counseling and other services.
    In 2023, the United States Air Force announced that Minnesota’s 133rd Airlift Wing was selected to receive eight new C-130J aircraft. Klobuchar worked across the aisle to help secure these aircraft for Minnesota’s 133rd Airlift Wing. The 133rd also leads the nation’s longest continuous troop exchange with Norway, and our Croatia and Norway State Partnership Programs. All these partners benefit and embrace the 133rd’s tactical airlift mission.
    In 2022, provisions from Klobuchar’s Toxic Exposure Training Act to improve education and training for VA health care personnel passed as part of the bipartisan PACT Act.
    In 2019, Klobuchar introduced legislation that became law to ensure that children of Guard members and Reservists are identified as students of military families in school records. This requirement, which already applied to children of active-duty servicemembers, ensures that schools and teachers know which students have parents in the Guard and Reserves and help accommodate those needs.
    In 2017, Klobuchar introduced legislation to help reduce the cost of service for National Guard members and make a big difference for thousands of soldiers in the Minnesota National Guard by reducing the mileage that can be claimed on taxes from 100 to 50. In Minnesota, 30 percent of all National Guard members travel more than 50 miles for training and can be burdened with costly travel expenses simply for completing their required duty training each month. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper, Bennet, Colleagues Send Amicus Brief Urging Federal Court to Protect Access to Emergency Abortions

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Hickenlooper – Colorado
    Members urge the Ninth Circuit to affirm emergency stabilizing treatment to patients, including abortion care when necessary
    Ninth Circuit Court received the case after the Supreme Court dismissed it in June
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper and Michael Bennet, along with 258 other members of congress, submitted an amicus brief to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit calling on the court to allow Medicare-funded hospitals to provide life-saving care that may include abortion care. The court is considering Moyle v. United States and Idaho v. United States which concern the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA), a federal law that requires hospitals that receive Medicare funding to provide necessary “stabilizing treatment” to patients experiencing medical emergencies, which can include abortion care.
    “[T]he 99th Congress passed EMTALA to ensure that every person who visits a Medicare-funded hospital with an ‘emergency medical condition’ is offered stabilizing treatment,” wrote the lawmakers.
    “Congress chose broad language for that mandate, requiring hospitals that participate in the Medicare program to provide ‘such treatment as may be required to stabilize the medical condition.’… That text—untouched by Congress for the past three decades—makes clear that in situations in which a doctor determines that abortion constitutes the ‘[n]ecessary stabilizing treatment’ for a pregnant patient, federal law requires the hospital to offer it.”
    After the Dobbs decision in 2022, Idaho passed a law making it a felony for a doctor to terminate a patient’s pregnancy unless it is “necessary” to prevent the patient’s death. The Department of Justice sued the State of Idaho, arguing that the state’s law is preempted by EMTALA in those circumstances in which abortion may not be necessary to prevent imminent death, but still constitutes the necessary stabilizing treatment for a patient’s emergency medical condition. The district court agreed; however, Idaho Republicans appealed that ruling to the Supreme Court. In March, Hickenlooper and 257 of his colleagues filed an amicus brief asking the Supreme Court to affirm the district court decision. In June, the Supreme Court sent the case back to the Ninth Circuit Court and reinstated the district court’s injunction.
    In their brief, the lawmakers ask the Ninth Circuit to uphold the district court’s ruling. They argue that the congressional intent, text, and history of EMTALA make clear that covered hospitals must provide abortion care when it’s needed to stabilize a patient’s emergency medical condition, and that EMTALA preempts Idaho’s abortion ban in emergency situations that present a serious threat to a patient’s health.
    The full amicus brief is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Scott Urges FDA to Address Gene Therapy Priority Voucher Discrepancy

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Tim Scott
    WASHINGTON — In order to help increase treatment for sickle cell disease (SCD), U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) penned a letter to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Robert Califf raising concerns over how the FDA interprets “active ingredient” for awarding priority review vouchers, which could negatively impact drug development for rare diseases like sickle cell disease. Senator Scott was joined on the letter by Representative Danny Davis (D-Ill.).
    “We write regarding the administration of the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA’s) Rare Pediatric Priority Review Voucher (PRV) program, particularly as it applies to innovative treatments like gene therapies,” Senator Scott and Representative Davis wrote.
    They continued, “However, we are concerned that FDA’s recent administration of the program may not be fulfilling the program’s promise, original vision, and intent. Specifically, we understand that FDA has made an initial decision to narrowly interpret the definition of “active ingredient” in the PRV statute, resulting in the unexpected denial of at least one pediatric PRV.”
    “However, the decision whether to narrowly or broadly interpret the definition of “active ingredient” for purposes of awarding a PRV is not so much a question of science as it is one of policy. Congress has not provided guidance as to how FDA should determine if two active ingredients in an ex-vivo gene therapy are the same or different, but the text of the statute and the legislative history make clear that Congress wanted to create an incentive to treat patient populations that might not warrant investment if left simply to ordinary market forces. By interpreting this statutory requirement in a narrower way than the statute requires – and one that flies directly against Congressional intent – we risk disrupting this delicate ecosystem, jeopardizing not only the availability of SCD treatments today, but also investments in complex and life-saving innovation for the future,” stated Scott and Davis.
    “We understand that FDA may be in the process of reconsidering its interpretation. This decision is critical for the future of rare disease drug development and rare disease patients, and we are grateful for the FDA’s close attention to this matter. We hope that you will keep these additional considerations in mind as you conduct your review,” they concluded.
    Read the full letter here!

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Next Week: Rubio Staff Hosts Mobile Office Hours 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Florida Marco Rubio

    Next Week: Rubio Staff Hosts Mobile Office Hours 
    Oct 25, 2024 | Press Releases

    U.S. Senator Marco Rubio’s (R-FL) office will host in-person and virtual Mobile Office Hours next week to assist constituents with federal casework issues in their respective local communities. These office hours offer constituents who do not live close to one of Senator Rubio’s eight regional offices a more convenient way to receive federal casework assistance.
    In-person Mobile Office Hours
    Tuesday, October 29, 2024

    Clay County
    9:30am – 11:00am EDT
    Fleming Island Library, Meeting Room
    1895 Town Center Blvd.
    Fleming Island, FL 32003
    Click Here

    Wednesday, October 30, 2024

    Miami-Dade County
    10:00am – 2:00pm EDT
    Milander Center
    4800 Palm Ave.
    Hialeah, FL 33012

    Friday, November 1, 2024

    Osceola County
    11:00am – 1:00pm EDT
    Kissimmee City Hall
    101 Church St.
    Kissimmee, FL 34741
    Click Here 

    Virtual Mobile Office Hours
    Monday, October 28, 2024

    Holmes County
    10:00am – 11:30am CDT
    Click Here

    Washington County
    11:30am – 1:00pm CDT
    Click Here

    Tuesday, October 29, 2024

    Santa Rosa County
    10:00am – 11:30am CDT
    Click Here

    Escambia County
    11:30am – 1:00pm CDT
    Click Here

    Seminole County
    1:00pm – 2:30pm EDT
    Click Here

    Thursday, October 31, 2024

    Okaloosa County
    10:00am – 11:30am CDT
    Click Here

    Walton County
    11:30am – 1:00pm CDT
    Click Here

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SCHUMER ANNOUNCES $400,000 IN FED FUNDING FOR BINGHAMTON’S KLAW INDUSTRIES

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer
    New EPA $$ Will Help KLAW Develop Tech To Reduce Waste Sent To Landfill With Automated Recycling System To Bolster Operations In The Southern Tier
    Schumer: KLAW Is The Success Story I Had In Mind When Establishing A High-Tech Incubator In Binghamton!
    U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer today announced $400,000 in federal funding for the Binghamton-based KLAW Industries to produce a robotic sorting system to improve recycling facilities in disadvantaged communities. The federal funding comes from the Environmental Protection Agency’s Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR).
    “KLAW Industries is exactly the kind of innovative company I had in mind when I joined with Binghamton University, New York State and Broome County to establish a high-tech incubator in the City of Binghamton. Today’s announcement of $400,000 in federal funding builds on the success of this innovative, homegrown business,” said Senator Schumer. “From incubator to their growing operation today, KLAW is paving the way to grow the region’s economy and make significant contributions in the material used in the concrete industry.”
    Schumer added, “With these funds, KLAW will be able to advance its glass sorting capabilities by creating a state-of-the-art robotic sorting system to improve both the processes at glass recycling facilities, and the number of facilities they can service. That means more glass material kept out of landfills, more material flowing to their Binghamton facility to help them grow! Once again, the Southern Tier is proving to be a leader, and I am thrilled that these funds are flowing to the Southern Tier.”
    “We are thrilled to continue our partnership with the EPA in identifying impactful end uses for our recycled materials. This achievement would not have been possible without the invaluable support of the City of Binghamton and Broome County, who have played a key role in bringing national recognition to the important work happening here,” said Jacob Kumpon, Co-Founder and COO of KLAW Industries. “The EPA SBIR Phase II award will significantly enhance KLAW’s capacity to process recycled materials, marking a critical step in our efforts to divert local waste from landfills. The Koffman Southern Tier Incubator has been instrumental in securing federal support for Binghamton, and we are especially grateful for Senator Schumer’s foresight in making the Koffman a reality”. 
    KLAW Industries is a Binghamton-based company that re-purposes contaminated glass, not suitable for recycling, that would otherwise be sent to a landfill, into a replacement for cement called Pantheon. The inclusion of this patent-pending material into concrete, reduces carbon emissions and the amount of waste sent to landfills. KLAW received an initial Phase I award of $100,000 earlier this year for “proof of concept” for their technology and was invited to apply for Phase II funding of $400,000 to further develop and commercialize the technology. The second phase of federal funding that Schumer announced today will help KLAW expand their operations on Griswold Street to develop technology that will create an autonomous robotic sorting system for recycling facilities. This will help KLAW find contaminated glass to make Pantheon and create more efficient recycling sorting methods in disadvantaged communities in Binghamton and beyond.
    After bringing federal officials to Binghamton to discuss plans with project leaders in 2013, Schumer helped secured $2 million in federal funding for the Koffman Southern Tier incubator in downtown Binghamton, which KLAW Industries is part of. With Schumer’s help, the incubator has grown to support hundreds of jobs and become a magnet for entrepreneurs from around the region, state, and country.

    MIL OSI USA News –