Category: Asia Pacific

MIL-OSI Economics: Huawei Wins GSMA Digital Nation Award, Vows Support for Carriers’ Growth in the Mobile AI Era

Source: Huawei

Headline: Huawei Wins GSMA Digital Nation Award, Vows Support for Carriers’ Growth in the Mobile AI Era

[Seoul, Republic of Korea, October 11, 2024] During GSMA Mobile 360 (M360) Asia Pacific 2024 in Seoul, Korea, Huawei won a Digital Nation Award for ‘Excellence in Innovation Video’ for “Smart 5G Warehouse – Future of Logistics,” a short video showing how 5G technology is driving digital transformation across multiple industries, including logistics. At the event, a senior Huawei leader also described various new pathways for carriers to monetize the vast new markets that 5G and AI open up.
A screenshot from the video showcasing the 5G warehouse

“Smart 5G Warehouse” was shot at the Indonesia’s First 5G Smart Warehouse and 5G Innovation Center in Bekasi Regency, West Java, Indonesia. It highlights how 5G enhances operational efficiency and creates new growth opportunities, contributing to Indonesia’s Golden Vision 2045 of a modern digital economy.
In a keynote to the M360 audience, James Chen, President of Huawei Carrier Business, emphasized the pivotal role AI will play in shaping the future of the mobile industry. With the convergence of 5G-A and AI, operators are entering an era where personalized services can be delivered at scale, unlocking new opportunities for growth.
James Chen delivering his keynote speech

Exploring Large-Scale Personalization in Carrier Services
Chen further highlighted the new possibilities that 5G opens up for carriers. 5G New Calling uses AI technology to provide a rich, personalized experience for users. Powered by AI large models, it can be upgraded to a personal intelligent assistant, providing real-time suggestions during conversations and supporting intent recognition across various scenarios. As of September 2024, over 22 million users in China had subscribed to this service.
In the Asia-Pacific region, Chen noted, Huawei has partnered with local carriers in Hong Kong to test new AI applications, including real-time digital humans. In Thailand, Huawei collaborated with carriers to trial real-time multilingual translation, with the Thai language translation already meeting business requirements.
Another product that 5G enables is Cloud Phone, Chen said. Leveraging the advantages of network, cloud, and computing power, Cloud Phone delivers a near-real device experience while addressing key pain points such as insufficient storage, fast data consumption in gaming, and the inability of low-end phones to support high-quality games. Enhanced by AI, Cloud Phone is being revitalized, allowing each user to set up their own unique AI assistant, precisely accessing more third-party AI applications, and gradually becoming the gateway to personal AI in the future.
A New Era of 5G/5G-A and AI Integration
“We are still in the early stages of the AI revolution, and the impact of generative AI on the future is beyond imagination,” said Chen. Chen predicted that by 2030, around 8 billion AI-powered assistants will be integrated into households globally, while AI robots, numbering between 1 and 3 billion, will play a critical role in industries like manufacturing, inspection, and research and development. He urged telecom operators to explore new business models, turning personalized user experiences into new commercial value.
“We are still in the early stages of the AI revolution, and the opportunities that generative AI will bring to the future are beyond imagination,” said Chen. He predicted that by 2030, around 8 billion AI-powered assistants will be integrated into households globally, while the number of AI robots will range between 1 and 3 billion. AI will play a pivotal role in industries such as manufacturing, inspection, and research and development. Chen encouraged telecom operators to collaboratively explore new business models, turning personalized user experiences into new commercial value.

MIL OSI Economics –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Huawei Wins GSMA Digital Nation Award, Vows Support for Carriers’ Growth in the Mobile AI Era Oct 11, 2024

Source: Huawei

Headline: Huawei Wins GSMA Digital Nation Award, Vows Support for Carriers’ Growth in the Mobile AI Era
Oct 11, 2024

[Seoul, Republic of Korea, October 11, 2024] During GSMA Mobile 360 (M360) Asia Pacific 2024 in Seoul, Korea, Huawei won a Digital Nation Award for ‘Excellence in Innovation Video’ for “Smart 5G Warehouse – Future of Logistics,” a short video showing how 5G technology is driving digital transformation across multiple industries, including logistics. At the event, a senior Huawei leader also described various new pathways for carriers to monetize the vast new markets that 5G and AI open up.
A screenshot from the video showcasing the 5G warehouse

“Smart 5G Warehouse” was shot at the Indonesia’s First 5G Smart Warehouse and 5G Innovation Center in Bekasi Regency, West Java, Indonesia. It highlights how 5G enhances operational efficiency and creates new growth opportunities, contributing to Indonesia’s Golden Vision 2045 of a modern digital economy.
In a keynote to the M360 audience, James Chen, President of Huawei Carrier Business, emphasized the pivotal role AI will play in shaping the future of the mobile industry. With the convergence of 5G-A and AI, operators are entering an era where personalized services can be delivered at scale, unlocking new opportunities for growth.
James Chen delivering his keynote speech

Exploring Large-Scale Personalization in Carrier Services
Chen further highlighted the new possibilities that 5G opens up for carriers. 5G New Calling uses AI technology to provide a rich, personalized experience for users. Powered by AI large models, it can be upgraded to a personal intelligent assistant, providing real-time suggestions during conversations and supporting intent recognition across various scenarios. As of September 2024, over 22 million users in China had subscribed to this service.
In the Asia-Pacific region, Chen noted, Huawei has partnered with local carriers in Hong Kong to test new AI applications, including real-time digital humans. In Thailand, Huawei collaborated with carriers to trial real-time multilingual translation, with the Thai language translation already meeting business requirements.
Another product that 5G enables is Cloud Phone, Chen said. Leveraging the advantages of network, cloud, and computing power, Cloud Phone delivers a near-real device experience while addressing key pain points such as insufficient storage, fast data consumption in gaming, and the inability of low-end phones to support high-quality games. Enhanced by AI, Cloud Phone is being revitalized, allowing each user to set up their own unique AI assistant, precisely accessing more third-party AI applications, and gradually becoming the gateway to personal AI in the future.
A New Era of 5G/5G-A and AI Integration
“We are still in the early stages of the AI revolution, and the impact of generative AI on the future is beyond imagination,” said Chen. Chen predicted that by 2030, around 8 billion AI-powered assistants will be integrated into households globally, while AI robots, numbering between 1 and 3 billion, will play a critical role in industries like manufacturing, inspection, and research and development. He urged telecom operators to explore new business models, turning personalized user experiences into new commercial value.
“We are still in the early stages of the AI revolution, and the opportunities that generative AI will bring to the future are beyond imagination,” said Chen. He predicted that by 2030, around 8 billion AI-powered assistants will be integrated into households globally, while the number of AI robots will range between 1 and 3 billion. AI will play a pivotal role in industries such as manufacturing, inspection, and research and development. Chen encouraged telecom operators to collaboratively explore new business models, turning personalized user experiences into new commercial value.

MIL OSI Economics –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI: EBC Financial Group Enhances Liquidity and Lowers Trading Costs on Major Stock Indices
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SINGAPORE, Oct. 11, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Amidst a global stock market resurgence, EBC Financial Group (EBC) is enhancing liquidity for five major stock indices, including the U.S. Dow Jones, Nasdaq, S&P 500, the A50 (China), and the Hang Seng Index (Hong Kong). This strategic move aims to provide investors with more optimised, efficient trading across all global sessions by reducing trading costs and offering greater access. The global stock market is going through big changes, with lots of money flowing in and companies going public again (IPO boom). This is making stock markets around the world rise.

As market valuations rise and capital flows increase globally, these enhancements position investors to capitalise on key opportunities emerging in this pivotal moment for financial markets. EBC, a global financial broker, is here to help investors make the most of these opportunities. They do this by using advanced technology to offer low-cost, high-quality access to markets where big financial players (banks, institutions) operate. In short, EBC helps investors get better deals and access to big markets at low costs.

Liquidity Strengthens Major Indices Amid Global Recovery
The ongoing recalibration of global stock markets is driven by several interconnected factors: fresh capital entering the system, a resurgence in IPO activity, and a series of market corrections that are realigning valuations. Emerging markets, once considered high-risk due to volatility, are now benefiting from new regulatory changes that boost investor returns, particularly in dividend payouts.

David Barrett, CEO of EBC Financial Group (UK) Ltd, offered an early prediction in June that undervalued markets were set to rebound. “Value reversion is a powerful force,” Barrett said at the time, emphasising that markets under pressure were now ripe for capital returns. He also noted that emerging markets, bolstered by new dividend regulations, are enhancing their attractiveness to global investors.

The past months have borne out these predictions. Since the start of 2024:
- All three major U.S. stock indices (Dow Jones, Nasdaq, and S&P 500) have hit new all-time highs since the start of 2024, driven by fresh investment and increased investor confidence.
- Asian markets, particularly in China and Hong Kong, are experiencing their most significant gains in a decade, marking them as central to global growth.
Why EBC’s Liquidity Enhancement Matters
EBC’s liquidity enhancement couldn’t have come at a better time. As the world’s investors hunt for undervalued assets, EBC has strengthened its ability to offer the lowest trading costs for five major stock indices, giving traders a unique edge in the market.
- Tighter spreads:
  1. Dow Jones Index (U30USD): Spread reduced to 1.00, reflecting a reduction of up to 70%.
  2. S&P 500 Index (SPXUSD): Spread reduced to 0.31, with reductions reaching 64%.
  3. Nasdaq Index (NASUSD): Spread reduced to 0.70, with reductions as high as 85%, the most significant improvement.
  4. Hang Seng Index (HSIHKD): Spread reduced to 6.50, achieving a reduction of up to 55%.
  5. China A50 Index (CNIUSD): Spread reduced to 6.00, marking a reduction of 14%.
- Wider access: Whether you’re trading in the Asian, European, or U.S. markets, EBC ensures that you’ll benefit from these cost-saving improvements, no matter the time zone.
EBC’s role in implementing these reductions positions them among institutions actively working to streamline market access for a diverse range of investors.

The Role of IPOs and Global Capital Flows
Global capital is not simply flowing into traditional assets. A fresh wave of initial public offerings (IPOs) is reshaping the investment landscape, offering new opportunities for growth in sectors ranging from fintech to renewable energy. These IPOs, while centred in key regions, are attracting worldwide attention, pulling in capital from investors eager to capitalise on new and emerging trends.

“The market’s expectation for interest rate cuts has shifted the landscape,” Barrett said, adding that the rise of fintech IPOs, in particular, shows no signs of slowing down. As the global economy shifts into a new phase of monetary policy—with central banks signaling lower interest rates—investors are now betting on sustained growth in these innovative sectors.

With this, liquidity enhancements in major indices such as the Nasdaq and the Hang Seng are not simply reactive measures—they are strategic moves by institutions like EBC to prepare for the next wave of market activity. As more capital moves across borders, liquidity becomes essential for efficient, low-cost trading. The reduced spreads and enhanced market access make these indices more attractive to institutional and individual investors alike.

These developments come at a time when emerging markets are increasingly seen as key pillars of global growth, particularly as advanced economies grapple with inflationary pressures and slow economic recovery. The influx of liquidity into major indices reflects a broader confidence in global market resilience and the promise of continued returns in the months ahead.

Investors’ Next Steps: Navigating the Shift
As global capital searches for growth, liquidity becomes more than a technical feature—it’s a vital asset in a world where time and access to markets matter. This period of heightened activity may well define the next phase of global finance, one in which agility, market awareness, and access to liquidity will determine winners and losers.

EBC Financial Group’s liquidity enhancements across major indices align with broader market trends and provide investors with the tools they need to navigate these changes efficiently. By lowering costs and ensuring stability in key markets, EBC is laying the groundwork for investors to capture opportunities in the global markets of tomorrow.

Investors, particularly those focused on long-term wealth appreciation, would do well to remain vigilant. The liquidity enhancements we are seeing today are laying the foundation for future market opportunities. Those who understand these shifts and act accordingly will find themselves well-positioned in a rapidly evolving global financial landscape.

About EBC Financial Group
Founded in the esteemed financial district of London, EBC Financial Group (EBC) is renowned for its comprehensive suite of services that includes financial brokerage, asset management, and comprehensive investment solutions. EBC has quickly established its position as a global brokerage firm, with an extensive presence in key financial hubs such as London, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Singapore, Sydney, the Cayman Islands, and across emerging markets in Latin America, Southeast Asia, Africa, and India. EBC caters to a diverse clientele of retail, professional, and institutional investors worldwide.

Recognised by multiple awards, EBC prides itself on adhering to the leading levels of ethical standards and international regulation. EBC Financial Group’s subsidiaries are regulated and licensed in their local jurisdictions. EBC Financial Group (UK) Limited is regulated by the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), EBC Financial Group (Cayman) Limited is regulated by the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority (CIMA), EBC Financial Group (Australia) Pty Ltd, and EBC Asset Management Pty Ltd are regulated by Australia’s Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC).

At the core of EBC Group are seasoned professionals with over 30 years of profound experience in major financial institutions, having adeptly navigated through significant economic cycles from the Plaza Accord to the 2015 Swiss franc crisis. EBC champions a culture where integrity, respect, and client asset security are paramount, ensuring that every investor engagement is treated with the utmost seriousness it deserves.

EBC is the Official Foreign Exchange Partner of FC Barcelona, offering specialised services in regions such as Asia, LATAM, the Middle East, Africa, and Oceania. EBC is also a partner of United to Beat Malaria, a campaign of the United Nations Foundation, aiming to improve global health outcomes. Starting February 2024, EBC supports the ‘What Economists Really Do’ public engagement series by Oxford University’s Department of Economics, demystifying economics, and its application to major societal challenges to enhance public understanding and dialogue.

https://www.ebc.com/

Media Contact:
Chyna Elvina
Global Public Relations Manager (APAC, LATAM)
chyna.elvina@ebc.com

Savitha Ravindran
Global Public Relations Manager (APAC, LATAM)
savitha.ravindran@ebc.com

Douglas Chew
Global Public Relations Lead
douglas.chew@ebc.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/54d1f25c-3548-44f0-8ca1-9e4efa4190f3

The MIL Network –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Naval Health Clinic Cherry Point Celebrates Navy’s 249th Birthday with Ball

Source: United States Navy (Medical)

The Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point community gathered Friday, October 4, 2024, to celebrate the 249th Birthday of the U.S. Navy.

Sailors and civilians serving aboard Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point celebrated the occasion with a Navy Ball hosted by the staff of Naval Health Clinic Cherry Point at the Havelock Convention Center in Havelock, North Carolina.

“Our mission – to Keep the Warfighter in the Fight – is critical in ensuring service members assigned to “America’s Air Station,” Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, remain at the highest state of medical readiness possible,” said Navy Captain Sean Barbabella, Commander of Naval Health Clinic Cherry Point.

“When the red phone rings on the 2nd Marine Air Wing Commander’s desk with orders to deploy forces, he will find his Marines and Sailors as medically ready as possible because of your commitment to excellence in patient care,” said Barbabella to the clinic staff attending the ball.

The event’s keynote speaker, Mr. Wilbur D. Jones Jr., a nationally known historian, spoke to the crowd about his father who served with the Marines in World War I and the clinic’s namesake and Medal of Honor recipient, Pharmacist’s Mate Second Class William D. Halyburton, Jr. Halyburton was a native of Wilmington, North Carolina and Jones grew up and lives there today.

“Progress and time have obliterated and denuded the battlefield. Still, by reading Marine Corps records, we can partially reconstruct what transpired, exposing the character of Hospital Corpsman Halyburton,” said Jones.

Jones continued his remarks, giving the audience a picture of the fierce combat occurring May 10, 1945 on Okinawa Shima between Japanese forces and the Marines of 2nd, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division. Halyburton would sacrifice his life that day to save a wounded Marine who lay farthest away from his position.

The evening’s formal program of events concluded after an official cake-cutting celebrating the birthday and singing of the Marine Corps Hymn and Anchors Aweigh.

MIL Security OSI –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Switzerland and US sign new agreement on the exchange of trainees and young professionals

Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in English

State Secretariat for Migration

Bern-Wabern, 11.10.2024 – Switzerland and the US today signed a new agreement in Bern on the exchange of trainees and young professionals. The agreement will make it easier for young Swiss people to receive training in the US, and for Americans to do the same in Switzerland, for short periods. This new agreement replaces the agreement from 1980.

State Secretary for Migration Christine Schraner Burgener signed the new agreement in Bern today. It will take effect from 30 November, and is aimed at young Swiss people between 18 and 35 years old. Those wishing to participate must either be in training or have a vocational diploma or higher education qualification. People who do not meet these requirements may still be eligible if they have some professional experience. In particular, they must be seeking to complete their studies or to improve their skills in their specialisation.

For both Swiss and American participants, residence and work permits are issued for up to 12 months, with the possibility of a 6-month extension.

Purpose of the agreement

The new agreement makes it easier for young professionals from both countries to obtain visas, and opens up the exchange programme to a wider range of people than under the 1980 agreement. The immersive experience of training abroad allows participants to improve their language, cultural and social skills.

Under the old programme, more than 100 people each year from Switzerland and as many from the United States benefited from an exchange in the 1980s and early 1990s. This number has fallen steadily since the 2000s, mainly because of changes in the requirements for obtaining a US visa.

Switzerland also has trainee exchange agreements in place with Argentina, Australia, Chile, Canada, Japan, Monaco, New Zealand, the Philippines, Russia, South Africa, Ukraine, Tunisia and Indonesia. Switzerland also has individual agreements with the member states of the European Union; however, these are no longer applied because the Agreement on the Free Movement of Persons between Switzerland and the EU offers more favourable conditions.

Since the first trainee agreement was concluded (with Belgium in 1936), almost 40,000 Swiss trainees have been able to work temporarily abroad. Conversely, more than 58,000 foreign trainees have had the opportunity to experience the Swiss work environment.

Address for enquiries

SEM Information and Communication, medien@sem.admin.ch

Publisher

State Secretariat for Migration
https://www.sem.admin.ch/sem/en/home.html

MIL OSI Europe News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: DLNR News Release – TEMPORARY CLOSURE FOR ANIMAL CONTROL ACTIVITIES, Oct. 10, 2024

Source: US State of Hawaii

DLNR News Release – TEMPORARY CLOSURE FOR ANIMAL CONTROL ACTIVITIES, Oct. 10, 2024

Posted on Oct 10, 2024 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES

JOSH GREEN, M.D.
GOVERNOR

DAWN CHANG
CHAIRPERSON

NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 10, 2024

TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF VARIOUS DLNR-MANAGED LANDS FOR ANIMAL CONTROL ACTIVITIES

(HILO) — The DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW) will conduct animal control activities for trapping mouflon/feral sheep hybrids; staff control and/or aerial shooting from helicopters for feral goats, feral sheep, mouflon and mouflon/feral sheep hybrids within Palila critical habitat in the Mauna Kea Forest Reserve (Unit A), Mauna Kea Ice Age Natural Area Reserve (Unit K), Palila Mitigation Lands, and the Kaʻohe Game Management Area (Unit G) on the island of Hawaiʻi.

Aerial shooting is required for compliance with the federal court order mandating the removal of sheep and goats from critical habitat for Palila, a bird endemic to Hawaiʻi. The portion of Mauna Kea Forest Reserve (Unit A) south of the Gilbert Kahele Recreation Area and bordering the Pohakuloa Training Area will remain open for mammal hunting.

Control is scheduled for October 30, 2024. Public access to Mauna Kea Forest Reserve, Mauna Kea Ice Age Natural Area Reserve, Palila Mitigation Lands, the Kaʻohe Game Management Area and Mauna Kea Hunter Access Road will be restricted and allowed by permit only for animal salvage purposes on October 30 at 7 a.m.

# # #

RESOURCES

(All images/video courtesy: DLNR)

Photographs – Temporary Closure for Animal Control (various dates):

https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/abpfno8q08g4zxthcl0li/ACDcwNEUuxDkfT76Kf0AWhM?rlkey=t9mkihd76xptef1gxqg036vxp&st=rteh5jq8&dl=0

DLNR Legal Notice: https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/recreation/files/2024/10/LN-Mauna-Kea-Closure-10-9-249.pdf

Hunting announcement web page: https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/recreation/hunting/hunting-announcements/

Media Contact:

Ryan Aguilar

Communications Specialist

Hawaiʻi Dept. of Land and Natural Resources

808-587-0396

[email protected]

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: News Release – DOH Authorizes Café Duck Butt to Reopen Following Correction of Violations

Source: US State of Hawaii

News Release – DOH Authorizes Café Duck Butt to Reopen Following Correction of Violations

Posted on Oct 10, 2024 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

KA ʻOIHANA OLAKINO

JOSH GREEN, M.D.
GOVERNOR

KE KIA‘ĀINA

KENNETH S. FINK, MD, MGA, MPH
DIRECTOR

KA LUNA HO‘OKELE

DOH AUTHORIZES CAFÉ DUCK BUTT TO REOPEN FOLLOWING CORRECTION OF VIOLATIONS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 10, 2024 24-134

HONOLULU — The Hawai‘i Department of Health (DOH) Food Safety Branch issued Café Duck Butt a red placard and ordered the establishment to close on Oct. 8, due to the establishment’s inability to meet food safety requirements. Following the correction of the violations, a green placard and reopening was authorized on Oct. 9.

Café Duck Butt, located at 901 Kawaiahaʻo Street, in Honolulu, received the red placard and was ordered to immediately close on Oct. 8 due to a lack of electricity and its inability to power refrigerators needed to keep food safe to consume. A follow-up inspection was conducted on Oct. 9, once power was restored which found all critical violations were resolved.

Café Duck Butt was advised that refrigeration equipment must always be operational. Food establishments must close in the event of a power outage to protect customers from potential foodborne illnesses, some of which, may be very severe.

The DOH Food Safety Branch protects and promotes the health of Hawai‘i residents and visitors through education of food industry workers and regulation of food establishments statewide. The branch conducts routine health inspections of food establishments where food products are prepared, manufactured, distributed or sold.

The branch also investigates the sources of foodborne illnesses and potential adulteration; and is charged with mitigating the effects of these incidents to prevent any future occurrences. DOH food safety specialists strive to work with business owners, food service workers and the food industry to ensure safe food preparation practices and sanitary conditions.

For more information on the department’s placarding program go to http://health.hawaii.gov/san/

# # #

Media Contact:

Kristen Wong

Information Specialist

Hawai‘i State Department of Health

808-586-4407

[email protected]

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Office of the Governor – News Release – Gov. Green Signs Ninth Emergency Proclamation Relating to Affordable Housing
Source: US State of Hawaii

JOSH GREEN, M.D.
GOVERNOR
KE KIAʻĀINA

GOVERNOR GREEN SIGNS NINTH PROCLAMATION
RELATING TO AFFORDABLE HOUSING

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 10, 2024

HONOLULU — Governor Josh Green, M.D., today signed the Ninth Proclamation Relating to Affordable Housing, bolstering efforts to build more than 13,000 affordable housing units for working-class families over the next three years.

“We know that the key factor affecting Hawai‘i’s cost of living is affordable housing and my administration has been working from day one, with the counties and our partners, to break down barriers that can impede housing development. This is another step forward on the progress we have been making,” said Governor Green.

The latest proclamation places a pause on the automatic adoption of county building codes, giving the counties additional time to review, amend and adopt the latest state and national building codes to suit their particular safety and design standards and needs.

The previous Emergency Proclamation Relating to Affordable Housing suspended the State Building Code Council (SBCC), but it did not suspend the counties’ authority to update and amend their own countywide building codes according to their own building and safety standards. Under the current proclamation, counties retain the authority to update building codes at their discretion.

Adopting the county building codes is part of a complex, three-step process that takes years to implement. The International Code Council, National Fire Protection Agency and the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials publish model codes every three years.

These model codes are generic and are not tailored to the unique geographic and climate challenges in Hawaiʻi.

Under state law, the SBCC has two years to amend and adopt the model codes, or the model codes automatically become the statewide code. The counties then have another two years after that to update their building codes to meet these building and safety standards, or the state code automatically becomes the county code.

The 2021 building codes (published in October 2020) were automatically adopted by the state, and the counties have until the end of October of this year to adopt them.

Suspending the automatic adoption of the latest codes will allow the state and counties to leapfrog over amending the 2021 statewide and model codes and focus their review efforts on the 2024 codes. This will provide more consistency and stability in the construction of affordable housing.

The Ninth Emergency Proclamation Relating to Affordable Housing continues the groundbreaking work by the Green Administration and the many housing stakeholders in previous emergency proclamations by:
- Prioritizing the many state and county affordable housing projects to create thousands of new low-income and workforce housing units;
- Expanding the affordability threshold for projects. Developers must now produce 60% of their units at 140% AMI (area median income) or less to benefit from the waivers and exemptions allowed under the proclamation;
- Exempting certified affordable housing projects from school impact fees and general excise taxes automatically to offset rising interest rates and increased construction costs, to keep the cost of units as low as possible.
The latest emergency proclamation will remain in force for the next 60 days and it is anticipated that Governor Green will retain much of the provisions in the latest emergency proclamation when it expires December 9, 2024.

A copy of the executed EP can be found here.

# # #

Media Contacts:
Erika Engle
Press Secretary
Office of the Governor, State of Hawai‘i
Phone: 808-586-0120
Email: [email protected]

Makana McClellan
Director of Communications
Office of the Governor, State of Hawaiʻi
Cell: 808-265-0083
Email: [email protected]
MIL OSI USA News –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: DLNR News Release-Nene Killed in Hit and Run in Hilo, Oct. 10, 2024

Source: US State of Hawaii

DLNR News Release-Nene Killed in Hit and Run in Hilo, Oct. 10, 2024

Posted on Oct 10, 2024 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES

JOSH GREEN, M.D.
GOVERNOR

DAWN CHANG
CHAIRPERSON

NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 10, 2024

HIT AND RUN DRIVER KILLS NĒNĒ IN LILIʻUOKALANI PARK AND GARDENS

(HILO, HAWAI‘I) – A male nēnē, banded as 595, was killed while apparently crossing a road in Liliʻuokalani Park and Gardens off Banyan Drive early this morning.

The DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW) received a call about the incident before its offices opened and a staff member responded and picked up the bird. DOFAW plans to have the dead nēnē tested for toxoplasmosis, a deadly disease spread by cats.

McGuire said, “Since people have been regularly feeding nēnē in the park for many months now, they’ve grown accustomed to humans (habituated). This is a primary reason we’ve pleaded with folks to stop feeding feral cats. Yet even after one woman was cited earlier this year, regular feeding is continuing.”

Sadly, the male nēnē’s mate, with a leg band of NTC, has now lost her partner, and experienced trauma with two of her chicks. One chick, born this season, died of suspected toxoplasmosis in the spring. Another, nicknamed Onion and banded as NYN, was abducted from another Hilo park several years ago, but eventually recovered, returned to its parents and then released into a bird sanctuary.

“Nēnē’s normally have mate fidelity and will breed for life with their partners. In this case NTC had one offspring bird-napped, one apparently felled by a disease spread by feral cats and at least one partner killed,” McGuire noted.

The DLNR Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement (DOCARE) has opened an investigation and is encouraging anyone who may have seen a vehicle in the park early Thursday morning to report it. Better yet, is if the person who hit the bird steps forward.

Nēnē regularly cross the roads in the park, traveling to cat feeding locations put out by people. DOCARE officers are aware of the feeding and regularly patrol the park looking for anyone who is putting food out. Anyone caught placing plates of food that nēnē can eat can be cited and face criminal prosecution.

Witnesses can contact DOCARE at 643-DLNR or via the DLNRTip app, both anonymously. Or they can call the DOCARE Branch Office in Hilo at 808-933-3460.

# # #

RESOURCES

(All images/video courtesy: DLNR)

HD video – Nēnē, and cat feeding at Liliʻuokalani Park (April 30, 2024):

Video – Nēnē crossing Liliʻuokalani Park road:

Photographs – Nēnē NTC and 595 (from Nēnē Research & Conservation):

Media Contact:

Dan Dennison

Communications Director

Hawaiʻi Dept. of Land and Natural Resources

808-587-0396

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: DLE Deputy Sheriffs Arrest Unruly Passenger

Source: US State of Hawaii

DLE Deputy Sheriffs Arrest Unruly Passenger

Posted on Oct 10, 2024 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

DEPARTMENT OF LAW ENFORCEMENT

Ka ʻOihana Hoʻokō Kānāwai

JOSH GREEN, M.D.

GOVERNOR

KE KIAʻĀINA

JORDAN LOWE

DIRECTOR

KA LUNA HO‘OKELE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 10, 2024

DLE Deputy Sheriffs Arrest Unruly Passenger

HONOLULU – Deputy Sheriffs with the Department of Law Enforcement arrested a passenger on United Airlines flight #1175 shortly after the landing at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport this morning.

The passenger allegedly created an in-flight disturbance and interfered with the flight crew. Other passengers assisted the crew in restraining the man.

Upon arrival, Deputy Sheriffs removed the man from the aircraft. He was taken to an area hospital for an evaluation.

# # #

Media Contact:

Brooks Baehr

Public Information Officer

Department of Law Enforcement

Office 808-587-5051

Mobile 808-892-9272

Email: [email protected]

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: For Immediate Release: GOVERNOR GREEN ESTABLISHES HISTORIC INAUGURAL HAWAIʻI STATE LGBTQ+ COMMISSION
Source: US State of Hawaii

For Immediate Release: GOVERNOR GREEN ESTABLISHES HISTORIC INAUGURAL HAWAIʻI STATE LGBTQ+ COMMISSION

Posted on Oct 10, 2024 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES

KA ʻOIHANA MĀLAMA LAWELAWE KANAKA

JOSH GREEN, M.D.

GOVERNOR

KE KIAʻĀINA

RYAN I. YAMANE

DIRECTOR

KA LUNA HOʻOKELE

JOSEPH CAMPOS II

DEPUTY DIRECTOR

KA HOPE LUNA HOʻOKELE

TRISTA SPEER

DEPUTY DIRECTOR

KA HOPE LUNA HOʻOKELE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 10, 2024

GOVERNOR GREEN ESTABLISHES HISTORIC INAUGURAL HAWAIʻI STATE

LGBTQ+ COMMISSION

HONOLULU — The state of Hawaiʻi has established an advisory body to develop and improve the state’s interaction with its lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, plus (LGBTQ+) citizens in accordance with HRS 369. The commission, one of few in the country, is comprised of eight voting members.
- Commission Chair – Kathleen O’Dell, Ph.D. (she/her) – representing the City and County of Honolulu
- Michael Golojuch Jr. (he/him) – representing the City and County of Honolulu
- Secretary (temporary) Joe Tolbe (he/him) – representing Maui County
- Finance Director Shanda Brack (she/her) – representing the Hawai‘i Sexual and Gender Minority working group out of the Department of Health
- Sandy Harjo-Livingston, Ph.D. (he/him/they/them) – representing the City and County of Honolulu
- Philip Steinbacher, Ph.D. (he/him) – representing Kaua‘i County
- Joseph “Rocco” Vick (he/him) – representing Hawai‘i County
- Richard Velasquez (he/him) – representing the City and County of Honolulu
The commission operates administratively under the Department of Human Services.

“The eight commissioners come to the table with a wide range of diverse and relevant experience and history,” stated commission Chair O’Dell. “It’s easy to feel how committed the members are and how enthusiastically they honor the responsibilities they are charged to take on.”

The commissioners were sworn in on June 28, 2024. by Lt. Governor Sylvia Luke. June 28 was selected by the commissioners as it commemorates the 55th Anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising, a significant date in LGBTQ+ history and efforts toward equality.

Powers and duties of the commission include creating public awareness and understanding of the responsibilities, needs, potentials and contributions of Hawai’i’s LGBTQ+ community; maintaining contacts with appropriate federal, state, local and international agencies concerned with the status of Hawaiʻi’s LGBTQ+ community; recommending legislative and administrative action on equal treatment and opportunities for members of Hawai’i’s LGBTQ+ community, and submitting to the governor and legislature an annual report with recommendations.

In addition to the eight voting members, the commission includes six ex officio, nonvoting members or their designees, including the superintendent of the Department of Education, the president of the University of Hawai‘i system, the director of Labor and Industrial Relations, the director of Human Resources Development, the director of Human Services; and the director of the Department of Health.

Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi invited members of the commission to attend the ceremony for Honolulu Pride Month to raise the Pride flag above the Frank F. Fasi Civic Center Grounds and to proclaim the Wilhelmina Tenney Rainbow Shower Tree as the “Official Pride Tree of Honolulu.” This took place on Tuesday, October 1, 2024 in front of the Frank F. Fasi Municipal Building. Commissioners also helped to celebrate the beginning of Pride Month at the Aliʻiōlani Hale that evening and attended a round table discussion featuring current Hawaiʻi Supreme Court Justice Sabrina McKenna,and former Hawaiʻi Supreme Court Justices Steve Henry Levinson and Daniel R. Foley. They discussed Hawaiʻi’s entrance onto the marriage equality stage. The evening concluded with the debut of a traveling exhibition “Kaulike No Nā Mea A Pau: Toward Queer Justice in Hawaiʻi.”

Additionally, the commission will be participating in the Honolulu Pride Parade at 4:00 pm, Saturday, October 19, 2024, down Kalākaua Avenue. Honolulu Pride is celebrated in October to coincide with LGBTQ+ History Month, National Coming Out Day and Spirit Day.

Commission Contact:

Commission Chair – Kathleen O’Dell, Ph.D. (she/her)

[email protected]

Media Contact:

Amanda Stevens

Public Information Officer

Department of Human Services

[email protected]

Photos courtesy of the State of Hawaiʻi LQBTQ+ Commission

NOTICE: This information and attachments are intended only for the use of the individual or entity to which it is addressed, and may contain information that is privileged and/or confidential. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited and may be punishable under state and federal law. If you have received this communication and/or attachments in error, please notify the sender via email immediately and destroy all electronic and paper copies.

MIL OSI USA News –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Office of the Governor – News Release – Governor Green Travels to Nevada

Source: US State of Hawaii

Office of the Governor – News Release – Governor Green Travels to Nevada

Posted on Oct 10, 2024 in Latest Department News, Newsroom, Office of the Governor Press Releases

JOSH GREEN, M.D.

GOVERNOR
KE KIAʻĀINA

GOVERNOR GREEN TRAVELS TO NEVADA

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 10, 2024

HONOLULU ̶ Governor Josh Green, M.D., will travel to Nevada on Thursday, October 10, to learn about sports tourism.

Governor Green is scheduled to return to Honolulu on Tuesday, October 15. Lieutenant Governor Sylvia Luke will serve as acting Governor from the night of October 10 through the morning of October 12. Attorney General Anne Lopez will serve as acting Governor from the morning of October 12 through the afternoon of October 15.

# # #

Media Contacts:
Erika Engle
Press Secretary
Office of the Governor, State of Hawai‘i
Phone: 808-586-0120
Email: [email protected]

Makana McClellan
Director of Communications
Office of the Governor, State of Hawaiʻi
Cell: 808-265-0083
Email: [email protected]

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Banking: Gradual trade recovery underway despite regional conflicts, policy uncertainty

Source: World Trade Organization

The October update of the WTO’s Global Trade Outlook and Statistics largely reaffirms the April forecast, pointing to a gradual recovery in merchandise trade despite widening regional conflicts and increasing policy uncertainty. However, at the regional level, we have seen weaker-than-expected European trade and stronger-than-expected Asian exports.

Since the last report, inflation has fallen, as expected, in advanced economies, prompting central banks to begin lowering interest rates. We expected these developments to boost consumption and investment, thereby increasing demand for imports. In particular, we projected that Asian economies would lead the trade recovery, while North America, Europe and other regions would contribute more modestly, yet positively.

Broadly speaking, these expectations have materialized. As shown in Chart 1, we now anticipate a 2.7% increase in global merchandise trade volume in 2024, slightly up on our previous estimate of 2.6%. However, the forecast for 2025 has been revised downward, from 3.3% to 3.0%. Trade growth in 2024 and 2025 will likely be accompanied by real global GDP growth of 2.7% at market exchange rates, both this year and next.

While the overall figures for global trade and output have remained stable, notable shifts in regional trade growth are emerging. Downside risks to the forecast have also intensified, particularly with the escalation of the conflict in the Middle East, which could further disrupt trade flows.

Two key differences stand out between the current forecast and the previous one. First, trade growth in European economies has been weaker than expected, affecting both imports and exports. Second, export growth in Asian economies has been stronger than expected.

As illustrated in Chart 2, Asia is expected to contribute more than any other region to global export growth in 2024, adding 2.8 percentage points to the projected 3.3% growth in exports. The region is also expected to contribute 1.4 percentage points to the 2.0% import growth foreseen for this year. Meanwhile, North America is expected to contribute 0.6 percentage points to import growth in 2024, partly offsetting Europe’s negative contribution of -0.8 percentage points. Regional trade contributions should stabilize in 2025, aligning more closely with medium-term trends.

The stronger-than-expected export performance in Asia has been driven by increased exports of electronics, automotive products and other manufactured goods from China, with other Asian economies such as India, Viet Nam and Singapore also reporting robust export growth. On the downside, Europe’s export decline has been led by a contraction in the automotive and chemicals sectors, both of which are concentrated in Germany.

The outlook for services trade remains more positive than for goods, with the value of global commercial services trade in US dollars rising 8% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2024. More comprehensive services data will be released later this month, but continued strong growth is anticipated for the second quarter.

Returning to merchandise trade, we are seeing increasing evidence of trade fragmentation driven by geopolitical concerns. Trade is increasingly conducted among like-minded economies, a trend accelerated by the war in Ukraine. However, we have yet to observe a broader shift towards regionalization or near-shoring on a global scale.

The full report is available here.

MIL OSI Global Banks –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK government seals further £225 million investment in Teesside renewables industry with financing deal
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

One of the largest factories in the global offshore wind sector will expand and support even more jobs after UK Export Finance worked with Korean investors to secure new financing.
UK Export Finance and Korea Trade Insurance Corporation have guaranteed new financing for a major South Korean investment into Teesside.

This has unlocked new £225 million in financing from Standard Chartered Bank and HSBC UK for SeAH Steel Holding’s construction of a wind tech factory near Redcar.

The financing supports an additional investment which will help the mega-factory to produce wider range of components for the offshore wind sector and meet latest industry demands.

Based in Teesside, one of the world’s largest offshore wind technology factories will become even bigger after new government support for a South Korean investor.

Supported by backing from UK Export Finance (UKEF), SeAH Wind UK has now made an additional £225 million investment into wind technology manufacturing in Teesside. This brings their total investment into the site at Teesworks Freeport up to £900 million.

This was made possible after SeAH Steel Holding received financial guarantees from UKEF and Korea Trade Insurance Corporation (K-Sure) – the UK and South Korean export credit agencies – meaning that it could access £225 million in new financing for its ongoing factory build.

UKEF and K-Sure first supported the project in 2023. New support brings their joint backing for this project up to £590 million, with Standard Chartered Bank and HSBC UK providing the finance.

Wind monopiles act as the foundation for most offshore wind turbines and are critical to the growth of the global renewable energy sector. Upon completion of the factory, SeAH Wind UK will export to US and European markets.

New financing means that the factory will be able to produce even bigger monopiles and a wider range of products to meet industry demands, supporting the UK’s place in the global offshore wind supply chain.

The project will create up to 750 jobs by 2027 – a milestone in the development of a thriving offshore wind and renewables industry in North-East England.

Chris Sohn, Chief Executive of SeAH Wind UK, said:

With the proactive support of UKEF, our project is progressing smoothly. As we approach the completion of the factory construction, we are committed to ensuring its successful finalisation. We aim to become the first monopile manufacturing company in the UK and make a significant contribution to the UK economy.

Tim Reid, CEO of UK Export Finance, said:

This investment shows that there is international confidence in the UK economy and its ability to support the industries of tomorrow.

UK Export Finance is helping to secure overseas investment in Teesside and around the UK through its financing offer. By working with HSBC UK, Standard Chartered and K-Sure to support investment into this project, the government is bolstering North-East England’s position as a leader in renewable energy expertise.

Ian Stuart, CEO of HSBC UK, said:

We are delighted to provide our continuing support to SeAH Group for its new offshore wind monopile manufacturing factory in Teesside, North-East England. Through its expanded manufacturing capabilities, the factory will significantly contribute to the needs of the offshore wind industry and play an essential role in addressing the growing demand for renewable energy. This project underscores the importance of export finance in helping our clients grow their operations globally and facilitating their journey to net zero.

Yoshi Ichikawa, Head of Structured Export Finance for Europe, Standard Chartered, said:

We are proud to build on our previous financing provided in November 2023, to support SeAH Group’s additional investment and enhancement of the UK supply chain in the wind sector. It is an example of the important role we play in helping our clients and sectors to make credible progress on their net zero ambitions, while supporting economic development across our markets.

SeAH Wind UK, a subsidiary of South Korean steel company SeAH Steel Holding, announced its decision to invest and broke ground at Teesworks Freeport in 2022.

The ongoing construction has already created major contracts for the UK supply chain in manufacturing, construction and logistics, including a £100 million contract for British Steel.

UKEF’s support was provided under the Export Development Guarantee (EDG) product, which is available for overseas companies investing in new UK exporting opportunities and has also secured a major investment into Welsh paper manufacturing at Shotton Mill, Deeside.

Notes to editors

UKEF’s Export Development Guarantee (EDG) helps companies who export from or plan to export from the UK access high-value loan facilities for general working capital or capital expenditure purposes.

Of the new financing, UKEF guaranteed over £157 million whilst K-Sure guaranteed over £67 million.

This follows previous financing worth £367 million in 2023, of which £257 million was guaranteed by UKEF and £110 million by K-Sure.

Contact

Media enquiries:

Email newsdesk@ukexportfinance.gov.uk

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Published 11 October 2024
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s Opening Remarks at the 14th ASEAN-UN Summit [as delivered]

Source: United Nations secretary general

Mr. Chair, Prime Minister Siphandone, thank you for your warm welcome and congratulations on your leadership of ASEAN this year.

Distinguished leaders of ASEAN,

Excellencies,

Ladies and gentlemen,

For nearly six decades, the family of South-East Asian countries has blazed a path of collaboration.

Every day, you grow more integrated, dynamic and influential.

And our ASEAN-UN partnership is growing ever stronger, too and it is today a strategic partnership from the UN point of view.

The ASEAN-UN Plan of Action is making important progress across the political, security, economic and cultural fronts.

I am particularly grateful for the important contribution of ASEAN members to our peacekeeping operations.

Allow me to express my total solidarity with the Indonesian delegation. Two Indonesian peacekeepers [serving in Lebanon] were wounded by Israeli fire. We are together with you and the Indonesian people at this time.

I also welcome your work on the preparation of the Community Vision 2045.

This region has always been about looking ahead.

And so is the Pact for the Future, adopted last month at the United Nations.

We need to keep looking ahead.

Let me point to four key areas.

First, connectivity — your theme for the year.

We start with a fundamental objective: technology should benefit everyone.

Across Southeast Asia, broadband and mobile internet connectivity has soared. Yet the digital divide persists.

And a new divide is now with us — an Artificial Intelligence divide.

Every country must be able to access and benefit from these technologies.

And every country should be at the table when decisions are made about their governance.

The Pact for the Future includes a major breakthrough — the first truly universal agreement on the international governance of Artificial Intelligence that would give every country a seat at the AI table.

It also calls for international partnerships to boost AI capacity building in developing countries.

And it commits governments to establishing an independent international Scientific Panel on AI and initiating a global dialogue on its governance within the United Nations.

Second, finance.

International financial institutions can no longer provide a global safety net – or offer developing countries the level of support they need.

The Pact for the Future says clearly: we need to accelerate reform of the international financial architecture.

To close the financing gap of the Sustainable Development Goals.

To ensure that countries can borrow sustainably to invest in their long-term development.

And to strengthen the voice and representation of developing countries.

This includes calling on G20 countries to lead on an SDG Stimulus of $500 billion a year.

Substantially increasing also the lending capacity of Multilateral Development Banks.

Recycling more Special Drawing Rights.

And restructuring loans for countries drowning in debt.

Third, climate.

ASEAN countries are feeling the brunt of climate chaos – disasters like Super Typhoon Yagi – while the 1.5 degree goal is slipping away.

We need dramatic action to reduce emissions.

The G20 is responsible for 80 per cent of total emissions – they must lead the way.

I welcome the pioneering Just Energy Transition Partnerships in Indonesia and Vietnam.

By next year, every country must produce new NDCs aligned with limiting the global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

Developed countries must keep their promises to double adaptation finance.

And we need to see significant contributions to the new Loss and Damage Fund.

Every person must be covered by an alert system by 2027, through the United Nations’ Early Warnings for All Initiative.

We must secure also an ambitious outcome on finance at COP29.

Fourth and finally, peace.

I recognize your constructive role in continuing to pursue dialogue and peaceful means of resolving disputes from the Korean Peninsula to the South China Sea.
And I salute you for doing so in full respect of the UN Charter and international law – including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.

Meanwhile, Myanmar remains on an increasingly complex path.

Violence is growing.

The humanitarian situation is spiralling.

One-third of the population is in dire need of humanitarian assistance. Millions have been forced to flee their homes.

Seven years after the forced mass displacement of the Rohingya, durable solutions seem a distant reality.

I support strengthened cooperation between the UN Special Envoy and the ASEAN Chair on innovative ways to promote a Myanmar-led process, including through the effective and comprehensive implementation of the ASEAN Five-Point Consensus and beyond.

The people of Myanmar need peace. And I call on all countries to leverage their influence towards an inclusive political solution to the conflict and deliver the peaceful future that the people of Myanmar deserve.

Excellencies,

ASEAN exemplifies community and cooperation.

You are far more than the sum of your parts.

In a world with growing geopolitical divides, with dramatic impacts on peace and security and sustainable development, ASEAN is a bridge-builder and a messenger for peace.

Peace that is more necessary than ever, when we see the immense suffering of the people in Gaza, now extended to Lebanon, not forgetting Ukraine, Sudan, Myanmar and so many others.

Allow me to tell you that the level of death and destruction in Gaza is something that has no comparison in any other situation I have seen since I became Secretary-General.

I am extremely grateful for your constant efforts to keep our world together.

You play a key role in shaping a world that is prosperous, inclusive and sustainable with respect for human rights at its heart.

And you can always count on my full support and that of the United Nations in this essential effort.

Thank you.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister pays tribute to Bharat Ratna Nanaji Deshmukh on his birth anniversary

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 11 OCT 2024 8:47AM by PIB Delhi

The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today paid tribute to Bharat Ratna Nanaji Deshmukh on his birth anniversary. Shri Modi remembered and lauded Shri Deshmukh’s dedication and service towards the empowerment of rural people of India.

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MJPS/SR

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LAUNCH OF LSAM 12 (YARD 80)

Source: Government of India (2)

Posted On: 11 OCT 2024 10:08AM by PIB Delhi

The launch of ‘Missile Cum Ammunition Barge, LSAM 12 (Yard 80)’, the Sixth Barge of 08 x Missile Cum Ammunition Barge project, built by MSME Shipyard, M/s SECON Engineering Projects Pvt Ltd (SEPPL), Visakhapatnam for Indian Navy, was undertaken on 10 Oct 24 at M/s Vinayaga Marine Petro Ltd, Mira Bhayandar, Maharashtra (launch site of M/s SECON Engineering Projects Pvt Ltd). The launching Ceremony was presided over by Cmde MV Raj Krishna, CoY(Mbi).

The contract for building 08 x Missile Cum Ammunition Barge was signed between MoD and M/s SECON Engineering Projects Pvt Ltd, Visakhapatnam on 19 Feb 21. The availability of these Barges would provide impetus to operational commitments of IN by facilitating Transportation, Embarkation and Disembarkation of articles/ ammunition to IN platforms both alongside jetties and at outer harbours.

These Barges are indigenously designed and built under relevant Naval Rules and Regulation of Indian Register of Shipping. The model testing of the Barge during design stage were undertaken at Naval Science and Technological Laboratory, Visakhapatnam. These Barges are proud flag bearers of Make in India initiative of Government of India.

_______________________________________________________________

VM/SPS 202/24

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister pays tribute to Loknayak Jaiprakash Narayan on his birth anniversary

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 11 OCT 2024 8:50AM by PIB Delhi

The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today paid tribute to Loknayak Jaiprakash Narayan on his birth anniversary. Lauding the contributions to the country and society, Shri Modi said Shri JP Narayan’s personality and ideals will remain a source of inspiration for every generation.

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MJPS/SR

(Release ID: 2064023) Visitor Counter : 9

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: English Translation of Prime Minister’s Intervention at the 19th East Asia Summit, Vientiane, Lao PDR

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 11 OCT 2024 11:49AM by PIB Delhi

Your Majesty,

Excellencies,

NAMASKAR.

First of all, I express my deep condolences to those affected by “Typhoon Yagi.”

During this challenging time, we have provided humanitarian assistance through Operation Sadbhav.

Friends,

India has consistently supported the unity and centrality of ASEAN. ASEAN is also pivotal to India’s Indo-Pacific vision and Quad cooperation. There are important similarities between India’s “Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative” and the “ASEAN Outlook on Indo-Pacific.” A free, open, inclusive, prosperous, and rules-based Indo-Pacific is crucial for the peace and progress of the entire region.

The peace, security, and stability in the South China Sea are in the interest of the entire Indo-Pacific region.

We believe that maritime activities should be conducted in accordance with UNCLOS. Ensuring freedom of navigation and airspace is essential. A robust and effective Code of Conduct should be developed. And, it should not impose restrictions on the foreign policies of regional countries.

Our approach should focus on development and not expansionism.

Friends,

We endorse ASEAN’s approach to the situation in Myanmar and support the Five-Point Consensus. Furthermore, we believe it is crucial to sustain humanitarian assistance and implement suitable measures for the restoration of democracy. We believe that, Myanmar should be engaged rather than isolated in this process.

As a neighbouring country, India will continue to uphold its responsibilities.

Friends,

The most negatively affected countries, due to ongoing conflicts in various parts of the world, are those from the Global South. There is a collective desire for the restoration of peace and stability in regions such as Eurasia and the Middle East as soon as possible.

I come from the land of Buddha, and I have repeatedly stated that this is not the age of war. Solutions to problems cannot be found in the battlefield.

It is essential to respect sovereignty, territorial integrity, and international laws. With a humanitarian perspective, we must place a strong emphasis on dialogue and diplomacy

In fulfilling its responsibilities as a VISHWABANDHU, India will continue to make every effort to contribute in this direction.

Terrorism also poses a serious challenge to global peace and security. To combat it, forces that believe in humanity must come together and work in tandem.

And, we must strengthen mutual cooperation in the areas of cyber, maritime, and space.

Friends,

The revival of Nalanda was a commitment we made at the East Asia Summit. This June, we fulfilled that commitment by inaugurating the new campus of Nalanda University. I invite all the countries present here to participate in the ‘Heads of Higher Education Conclave’ to be held at Nalanda.

Friends,

The East Asia Summit is a key pillar of India’s Act East Policy.

I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone for the excellent organisation of today’s summit.

I extend my best wishes to Malaysia as the next Chair and assure them of India’s full support for a successful presidency.

Thank you very much.

DISCLAIMER – This is the approximate translation of Prime Minister’s remarks. Original remarks were delivered

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: National Regulatory Authority of India meets WHO international standards for vaccine regulations

Source: Government of India (2)

National Regulatory Authority of India meets WHO international standards for vaccine regulations

India’s vaccine regulatory system was benchmarked in the year 2017 against Global benchmarking tool version V which is now revised to GBT VI with raised bars and stringency in benchmarking criteria

Posted On: 11 OCT 2024 11:55AM by PIB Delhi

The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), along with the National Regulatory Authority of India (NRA) and affiliated institutions, has been found to meet the World Health Organization (WHO) published indicators for a functional vaccine regulatory system. This conclusion was reached by a team of international experts from various countries, led by WHO (HQ) in Geneva, following a comprehensive and in-depth scientific review of India’s vaccine regulatory system conducted from September 16 to 20, 2024.

Safety, efficacy, and quality are three basic parameters of assessment of vaccines. WHO has established global standards and benchmarks for assurance of vaccine quality through the development of tools and guidelines, benchmarking of the NRA and prequalification programme of vaccines.

The WHO NRA re-benchmarking was aimed to assess and document the status of the India regulatory system in the area of vaccine regulation, re-benchmark the status of the India vaccine regulatory system against the WHO NRA Global Benchmarking Tool (GBT) and measuring the maturity of the system. India has been declared ‘functional’ against all the core regulatory functions of the WHO Global Benchmarking Tool Version VI. India’s vaccine regulatory system was benchmarked in the year 2017 against Global benchmarking tool (GBT) version V which is now revised to GBT VI with raised bars and stringency in benchmarking criteria.

India retains Maturity Level 3 with highest marks in several functions.

Speaking about this landmark achievement, Ms. Punya Salila Srivastava, Union Health Secretary, stated, “The Central Drugs Standards Control Organization, in collaboration with WHO, has made exemplary efforts towards this achievement. India is one of the main players in the pharmaceutical industry worldwide and is known for its affordable vaccines and generic medicines.”

She also congratulated all the teams for their hard work in achieving this milestone for the country and reemphasized the strength of the Indian regulatory system and its commitment to supplying quality products worldwide to enhance health outcomes.

Dr Roderico H. Ofrin, WHO Representative to India noted, “The WHO plays a pivotal role in supporting countries in strengthening their regulatory systems, and promoting equitable access to quality, safe, efficacious, and affordable medical products and health products. This is indeed a great achievement, and we would like to congratulate the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare and its affiliated institutions,” he added.

Dr Rajeev Singh Raghuvanshi, Drugs Controller General (India), Central Drugs Standard Control Organization, MoHFW highlighted that “India, as a large vaccine producing country, is currently supplying several vaccines to the UN agencies (UNICEF, WHO and PAHO)”. “National Regulatory Authority of India meets the standards of the WHO NRA indicators (WHO Global benchmarking Tool) on functional regulatory system for vaccines” he added.

In addition to the general framework for the system, the following regulatory functions were evaluated: General Overview of the National Regulatory System (RS), Registration and Marketing Authorization (MA), Vigilance (VL), Market Surveillance and Control (MSC), Licensing Establishments (LI), Regulatory Inspections (RI), Laboratory Testing (LT), Clinical Trials Oversight (CT) and NRA Lot Release (LR).

Welcoming the positive outcome of international benchmarking, Dr Alireza Khadem, WHO Team Leader for the NRA Re-benchmarking, said, “It will go a long way in re-affirming India’s role in global health, including the strength of its pharmaceutical sector and drug regulatory capacity. WHO had scaled up its technical support to the India’s national regulatory authority over the past several years. This success is a culmination of intensive effort by the Health Ministry, including CDSCO, in collaboration with WHO, to implement a roadmap to strengthen capacity for regulation of vaccines,”.

India is a major vaccine producer that has 36 major vaccine manufacturing facilities. These vaccines are used for the national and international market (150 countries), which makes India a major vaccine supplier across the globe.

The WHO Prequalification Programme (PQP) is aimed at facilitating access to vaccines that meet unified standards of quality, safety and efficacy as well as programme needs. It is also prerequisite for manufacturers to supply to countries through United Nations procuring agencies. A functional NRA is a criterion for WHO prequalification of vaccines.

As for all NRA benchmarking, sustainability of the gains made in regulatory capacity is critical. For this purpose, the team which has just completed the assessment in India has drawn up a detailed Institutional Development Plan. The plan will outline additional activities to be undertaken to further strengthen regulatory capacity in India in the coming years.

World Health Organization carried out assessment of the National Regulatory Authority (NRA) of India comprising the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), State Drug Regulatory Authorities, Central Drugs Laboratory, Kasauli; Adverse Events Following Immunization (AEFI) structures at the Central and States levels, Immunization Division, Pharmacovigilance Programme of India, and other relevant institutions engaged in the regulation, control and testing of vaccines.

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HFW/ NRA Meets WHO Standards /11^th October 2024/1

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 3rd EDITION OF INDIAN NAVY’S NAVAL INNOVATION AND INDIGENISATION SEMINAR (SWAVLAMBAN – 2024)

Source: Government of India (2)

3rd EDITION OF INDIAN NAVY’S NAVAL INNOVATION AND INDIGENISATION SEMINAR (SWAVLAMBAN – 2024)

Strength and Power through Innovation and Indigenisation

Posted On: 11 OCT 2024 12:18PM by PIB Delhi

The 3rd edition of the Indian Navy’s Naval Innovation and Indigenisation (ΝΙΙΟ) Seminar, Swavlamban 2024, is scheduled to be conducted at Bharat Mandapam on 28 – 29 Oct 24.

Over the last two editions of Swavlamban, the Indian Navy has received more than 2000 proposals from the Indian industry that have been converted into 155 challenges to facilitate development of prototypes. This initiative has enabled collaboration with more than 200 MSMEs/ Startups under the iDEX Scheme.

Swavlamban 2024 is expected to build on the experiences and insights gained through the conduct of previous editions of the seminar, and provide new and substantial impetus to the innovation and indigenisation endeavour. The event will showcase products of niche technologies such as air and surface surveillance, autonomous systems in surface, aerial and underwater domains, Al and quantum technologies on 28 and 29 Oct 24 at Hall 14, Pragati Maidan. Domain specific interactive sessions on 29 Oct 24 at Bharat Mandapam shall provide an opportunity for interaction among policy makers, innovators, startups, MSMEs, financial institutions and venture capitalists to discuss and deliberate on issues such as emerging technologies, future warfare, indigenisation, boosting innovation ecosystem and inculcating an innovative culture. For more information, kindly reach out to us at niio-tdac[at]navy[dot]gov[dot]in and mprcnavy[dot]321[at]gmail[dot]com.

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(Release ID: 2064075) Visitor Counter : 37

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister meets with Prime Minister of Lao PDR

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 11 OCT 2024 12:32PM by PIB Delhi

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi held bilateral talks with Prime Minister of Lao PDR H.E. Mr. Sonexay Siphandone in Vientiane today. He congratulated Lao PM on successfully hosting the 21st ASEAN-India and 19th East Asia Summits.

The two Prime Ministers held productive talks on further strengthening India-Laos civilizational and contemporary ties. They discussed various areas of bilateral cooperation such as development partnership, capacity building, disaster management, renewable energy, heritage restoration, economic ties, defence collaboration, and people-to-people ties. Prime Minister Siphandone thanked Prime Minister for India’s flood relief assistance provided to Lao PDR in the aftermath of Typhoon Yagi. The two leaders noted that the ongoing restoration and conservation of Vat Phou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, under Indian assistance by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) imparts a special dimension to bilateral ties.

The two Prime Ministers expressed satisfaction at the close cooperation between the countries in regional and multilateral fora. PM Siphandone reaffirmed India’s role on the international stage. India has strongly supported Lao PDR’s Chairmanship of ASEAN for 2024.

Following the talks, MoUs/ Agreement in the fields of defence, broadcasting, Customs cooperation, and three Quick Impact Projects (QIPs) under the Mekong-Ganga Cooperation were exchanged in the presence of the two leaders. The QIPs relate to preservation of heritage of Lao Ramayan, restoration of Wat Pakea Buddhist temple with murals related to Ramayan, and support to shadow puppetry theatre on Ramayan in Champasak province. All three QIPs have a GoI grant assistance of about USD 50000 each. India will also provide a grant assistance of about USD 1 million to improve nutrition security in Lao PDR. This assistance through the India UN Development Partnership Fund, will be the Fund’s first such project in South-East Asia. The details of the MoUs, agreements, and announcements may be seen here.

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MJPS/SR

(Release ID: 2064082) Visitor Counter : 26

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: List of Outcomes: Visit of Prime Minister to Vientiane, Lao PDR (October 10 -11, 2024)

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 11 OCT 2024 12:39PM by PIB Delhi

Sr. No.	MoU/Agreement/Announcement	Signatory from Indian side	Signatory from Laotian side
1	Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Defence of the Republic of India and Ministry of National Defence of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic concerning Defence Cooperation	Shri Rajnath Singh, Defence Minister of India	General Chansamone Chanyalath, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence, Lao PDR
2	Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation of Broadcasting between Lao National Television, Ministry of Information Culture and Tourism of Lao PDR and Prasar Bharati of the Republic of India	Shri Prashant Agrawal, Ambassador of India to Lao PDR	Dr. Amkha VONGMEUNKA, General Director Lao National TV
3	Agreement between the Government of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic and the Government of the Republic of India on Co-operation and Mutual Assistance in Customs Matters.	Shri Sanjay Kumar Agarwal, Chairman, Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs	Mr. Phoukhaokham VANNAVONGXAY, Director General Customs, Ministry of Finance, Lao PDR
4	QIP on Preservation of heritage of performing art of Phalak-Phalam (Lao Ramayana) drama in Luang Prabang Province	Shri Prashant Agrawal, Ambassador of India to Lao PDR	Ms. Soudaphone KHOMTHAVONG, Director of Luang Prabang Department of Information,
5	QIP on Renovation of Wat Phakea Temple in Luang Prabang Province	Shri Prashant Agrawal, Ambassador of India to Lao PDR	Ms. Soudaphone KHOMTHAVONG, Director of Luang Prabang Department of Information, Culture and
6	QIP on Preservation of Shadow Puppet Theatre’s Performance in Champasak Province	Shri Prashant Agrawal, Ambassador of India to Lao PDR	Mr. Somsack PHOMCHALEAN, President of Champasak Sadao Puppets Theater, Office at Ban
7	Announcement of a Project to improve nutrition security in Lao PDR through food fortification with about USD 1 million assistance from India through the India-UN Development Partnership Fund.

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MJPS/SR

(Release ID: 2064084) Visitor Counter : 75

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister’s participation in the 19th East Asia Summit

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 11 OCT 2024 12:34PM by PIB Delhi

Prime Minister (PM) attended the 19th East Asia Summit (EAS) on 11 October 2024 in Vientiane, Lao PDR.

In his address, PM stressed on ASEAN’s central role in the Indo-Pacific regional architecture, in India’s Indo-Pacific Vision and in Quad cooperation. He underlined that India’s participation in East Asia Summit was an important pillar of its Act East Policy. Noting that a free open, inclusive, prosperous and rules-based Indo-Pacific was important for peace and development in the region, he spoke of the similarity and common approach between India’s Indo-Pacific Ocean’s Initiative and ASEAN Outlook on Indo-Pacific. He emphasized that the region should pursue a development based approach rather than one pivoted on expansionism.

Reiterating the importance of the EAS mechanism and reaffirming India’s support to further strengthen it, PM recalled support received from EAS Participating Countries on the revival of Nalanda University. PM took this opportunity to invite the EAS countries for a Heads of Higher Education Conclave to be held at Nalanda University.

The leaders also exchanged views on regional and international issues affecting peace, stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific. Underlining the severe impact of conflicts on the Global South, PM highlighted that the path of dialogue and diplomacy based on a humanitarian approach must be adopted for peaceful resolution of conflicts in the world. He further reiterated that there was no solution for them to be found on the battlefield. Prime Minister stressed that terrorism along with cyber and maritime challenges posed a serious threat to global peace and security, for which countries must come together to combat them.

Prime Minister thanked Prime Minister of Laos for successfully hosting the East Asia Summit. He conveyed his good wishes to Malaysia as the new Chair of ASEAN and expressed India’s full support to it.

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MJPS/SR

(Release ID: 2064083) Visitor Counter : 18

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 81st Meeting of Network Planning Group under PM GatiShakti evaluates five key infrastructure projects

Source: Government of India (2)

81st Meeting of Network Planning Group under PM GatiShakti evaluates five key infrastructure projects

NPG assesses road and aviation infrastructure projects

Posted On: 11 OCT 2024 1:04PM by PIB Delhi

The 81^st meeting of the Network Planning Group (NPG) under the PM GatiShakti initiative was convened yesterday under the chairmanship of Additional Secretary, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Shri Rajeev Singh Thakur, . The meeting focused on evaluating five important infrastructure projects from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) and Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) . The projects were evaluated for their alignment with the principles of integrated planning outlined in the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan (NMP). The evaluation and the anticipated impacts of these projects are detailed below.

Vrindavan Bypass in Uttar Pradesh

A greenfield project in Uttar Pradesh involves the construction of a 16.75 km Vrindavan Bypass, connecting NH-44 to the Yamuna Expressway. This project aims to alleviate traffic congestion in Vrindavan by providing a direct route between NH-44 and Yamuna Expressway, significantly reducing travel time from 1.5 hours to 15 minutes. The project is expected to enhance connectivity and stimulate tourism, trade, and industrial growth in the region. Upon completion, it will play a crucial role in improving regional accessibility and fostering socio-economic development.

Sandalpur-Badi Road in Madhya Pradesh

A greenfield/brownfield project involving the construction of a 4-lane highway on the Sandalpur- Badi Road, part of NH-146B, spanning 142.26 km in Madhya Pradesh. The project aims to improve connectivity between Indore and Jabalpur, promoting smoother traffic flow and alleviating congestion, especially in Bhopal. The proposed route will serve as a crucial link, connecting multiple National Highways and various economic and tourist nodes, ultimately fostering socio-economic development in the region.

Junnar-Taleghar Road in Maharashtra

A brownfield project involving road upgrade of a 55.94 km stretch from Junnar to Taleghar in Pune, Maharashtra. The key objective of the project is to enhance connectivity between Bhimashankar, Junnar, Bankarphata, and NH-61, enhancing the movement of cargo and passengers. This improvement is anticipated to boost tourism, particularly in Bhimashankar (a significant pilgrimage center) and Junnar (home to the historic Shivneri Fort).

Bhimashankar – Rajgurunagar Road in Maharashtra

A brownfield project aiming to improve the road infrastructure over a 60.45 km stretch in Pune, Maharashtra. The project is essential for improving connectivity between Bhimashankar and Rajgurunagar, facilitating smooth movement of cargo and passengers, thus enhancing economic activities and access to markets. Moreover, the project will improve access to education and healthcare services for remote communities along the route. The enhanced road infrastructure will reduce travel time and cost, benefiting commuters and businesses, and promoting the overall socio-economic development of the area.

Development of a New Integrated Terminal Building & Allied Infrastructure, Budgam, Jammu & Kashmir

A brownfield project involving the construction of a new integrated terminal building and allied infrastructure at Srinagar Airport in Budgam, Jammu & Kashmir. The expansion includes constructing a new terminal building across 71,500 square meters of area, accommodating 2,900 peak hours of passenger traffic and an annual capacity of 10 million passengers. Additional works include the extension of the apron with new parking bays, city-side parking facilities, and the construction of residential quarters for AAI staff and CISF barracks.

NPG evaluated all five projects from the perspective of the principles of PM GatiShakti: integrated development of multimodal infrastructure, last-mile connectivity to economic and social nodes, intermodal connectivity, and synchronized implementation of projects. These projects are expected to play pivotal roles in nation-building, and provide substantial socio-economic benefits and ease of living, thereby contributing to the overall development of the regions.

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AD/VN/CNAN

(Release ID: 2064098) Visitor Counter : 9

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Meeting of Prime Minister with Prime Minister of Thailand

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 11 OCT 2024 12:41PM by PIB Delhi

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi met H.E. Ms. Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Prime Minister of Thailand on the sidelines of East Asia Summit in Vientiane on 11 October 2024. This was the first meeting between the two Prime Ministers.

Prime Minister congratulated the Thai Prime Minister on assuming office. She also extended greetings to PM on his historic third term in office. The two leaders discussed bilateral cooperation in a range of areas. They also exchanged views on ways to forge closer cooperation in sub-regional, regional, and multilateral fora. In this context, they discussed strengthening regional cooperation through BIMSTEC.

India’s ties with Thailand are an important pillar of India’s ‘Act East’ policy, which is marking a decade this year, and India’s Vision of the Indo-Pacific.

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MJPS/SR

(Release ID: 2064085) Visitor Counter : 72

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Nutritious Boost: Free Fortified Rice for a Healthier India

Source: Government of India (2)

Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution

Nutritious Boost: Free Fortified Rice for a Healthier India

Posted On: 11 OCT 2024 2:15PM by PIB Delhi

Read more: Nutritious Boost: Free Fortified Rice for a Healthier India

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Santosh Kumar/ Ritu Kataria/ Kamna Lakaria

(Release ID: 2064128) Visitor Counter : 48

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister meets with President of Lao PDR

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 11 OCT 2024 1:43PM by PIB Delhi

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi met H.E. Thongloun Sisoulith, General Secretary of the Central Committee of Lao People’s Revolutionary Party (LPRP) and President of Lao PDR in Vientiane today. Prime Minister congratulated President Sisoulith for successfully hosting the ASEAN Summit and the East Asia Summit.

The two leaders discussed bilateral ties and reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthen the close partnership. They noted that India-Laos contemporary partnership was deeply rooted in age-old civilizational bonds. They expressed satisfaction at the ongoing collaboration between the two countries in the fields of development partnership, heritage restoration and cultural exchanges. Highlighting that 2024 marks a decade of India’s Act East Policy, Prime Minister noted its salience in adding further momentum to India’s engagement with Laos. While referring to civilizational ties between the two countries, Prime Minister called for strengthening people-to-people ties through the opportunities presented by the new Nalanda University. President Sisoulith thanked Prime Minister for India’s humanitarian assistance to Lao PDR in the wake of floods caused by Typhoon Yagi.

Prime Minister thanked President Sisoulith for the support extended by Laos to strengthen India-ASEAN ties. The two leaders also discussed regional and global issues of mutual interest.

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MJPS/SR

(Release ID: 2064115) Visitor Counter : 51

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Mortal remains of the missing pilot of ICG’s ALH MK-III retrieved off Porbandar coast following a month-long search & rescue op

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 11 OCT 2024 2:38PM by PIB Delhi

The mortal remains of Commandant Rakesh Kumar Rana, the missing pilot of the Advanced Light Helicopter MK-III of Indian Coast Guard (ICG) which made an emergency landing last month, have been retrieved approximately 55 kms south west off the coast of Porbandar. The Commandant, who was the helicopter’s pilot-in-command, was on a medical evacuation mission along with one pilot and two air crew divers to evacuate a seriously injured crew member from Motor Tanker Hari Leela.

The helicopter had to make an emergency landing on September 02, 2024, after which ICG along with the Indian Navy launched a massive search and rescue operation for the missing personnel. One crew was rescued, while the mortal remains of three others were recovered on September 03, 2024. After over 70 air sorties and involvement of multiple ships, the mortal remains of Commandant Rakesh Kumar Rana were retrieved on October 10, 2024.

The mortal remains of the brave soul will be cremated as per service traditions and honour.

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SR/Savvy/KB

(Release ID: 2064136) Visitor Counter : 84

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs Successfully Launches “Special Campaign 4.0” aimed at achieving the goals of institutionalizing Swachhata and minimizing pendency from 2nd to 31st October, 2024
Source: Government of India

Posted On: 11 OCT 2024 2:42PM by PIB Delhi

Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs (MoPA), Government of India, commences the “Special Campaign 4.0”, a significant initiative aimed at achieving the goals of institutionalizing Swachhata and minimizing pendency from 2^nd October to 31^st October, 2024. This campaign is focused on reinforcing cleanliness and minimizing pendency.

The “Special Campaign 4.0” comprises of two phases. During the Preparatory Phase carried out from 16^th September 2024 to 30^th September 2024, the Ministry set specific targets, including the identification of cleanliness campaign sites, planning for space management and office beautification, recognizing scrap and redundant items, and identifying pending references for resolution. More than 400 files have been identified to be reviewed for the purpose of weeding out/further retention. Scrap material has also been identified in the form of obsolete electronic items, broken and dilapidated furniture etc. for disposal.

In the Implementation Phase from 2^nd October 2024, to 31^st October 2024, the Ministry will focus on the execution of the planned activities, ensuring comprehensive coverage of cleanliness efforts and enhancing operational efficiency.

As a part of the Campaign, MoPA has undertaken several key steps to make “Special Campaign 4.0” a success which inter alia, includes the following:
1. Appointment of Nodal Officer: Nodal Officer has been appointed in offices to coordinate and monitor the Campaign’s activities, ensuring smooth and effective implementation.
2. Successful Identification of Key Tasks: Various preparatory tasks, such as, identifying cleanliness campaign sites, implementing office beautification, removing redundant materials, and addressing pending references, were executed, contributing to the Campaign’s objectives.
3. Active Utilization of Social Media Platforms: lnformation about the campaign is being disseminated
through social media platforms, for widespread awareness and participation.

MoPA underlines its unwavering commitment towards achieving the targets set under “Special Campaign 4.0,” making the initiative a notable success and reaffirming the Ministry’s dedication for institutionalizing Swachhata and minimizing pendency across its operations.

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SS/PRK

(Release ID: 2064138) Visitor Counter : 46

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –
January 23, 2025

Category: Asia Pacific

Purpose of the agreement

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