NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Doorstop – Launceston

    Source: Australian Executive Government Ministers

    ANTHONY ALBANESE, PRIME MINISTER: Well, it’s fantastic to be here with the Premier of Tasmania, Jeremy Rockliff, with my Education Minister, Jason Clare, with Senator Helen Polley and with Deputy Premier, Michael Ferguson here this morning. And this is a big day for the Commonwealth and a big day for Tasmania. The two services that are most important to people’s lives are health and education. And today, we have some fantastic announcements on both. First of all, it’s great to be here at Launceston General Hospital. I do want to thank the administration and the staff, the doctors, the nurses, the volunteers who’ve shown us around here this morning. It’s been a great privilege, and I do want to take the opportunity to thank them for the difference that they make to people’s lives here in Northern Tasmania. But I want to say that it’s a good day for them too, it’s a good day, most importantly, for the people of Northern Tasmania. Because this announcement today of $120 million from the Federal Government for a Northern Heart Centre will make an enormous difference. People in Northern Tasmania should not have to cross the Bass Strait to the North Island in order to get the health care that they deserve. They should get it here in their local community and this Northern Heart Centre, which is well advanced in terms of its planning, will make an enormous difference for research. Most importantly, to be able to get that early detection and early care here, so that if you avoid a traumatic incident, then you actually save money as well as saving lives. And that’s why I’ve been talking with the Premier about the importance of this. This will mean more beds and less pressure on the hospital’s Emergency Department. The Centre will have its own dedicated lab that can diagnose and treat various heart conditions, allowing patients to bypass the Emergency Department with its own access to the intensive care unit and medical imaging. That will make an enormous difference here in Northern Tasmania. And I’m very proud that this is a part of my Government’s commitment to strengthening Medicare and providing better healthcare for all Australians, regardless of where they live. Further today I can announce that my Government and the Tasmanian Government have signed a historic agreement that means all Tasmanian public schools will be fully and fairly funded. We promised we would fully fund schools in Tasmania and today we deliver. Tasmania is the third state now after Northern Territory and Western Australia to sign up. The Commonwealth has $16 billion on the table to make sure that every school can reach that designation of fair funding that was first put forward by Gonski, by David Gonski, in his Review. The other thing that it will do of course, is the nature of education as well. Because we want to make sure it’s not just about dollars, it’s about how education is delivered. And the signing up of this agreement will make sure that the priorities that parents talk about, making sure that the basics are looked after, make sure that we lift literacy and numeracy right across Tasmania, but right across the country, is what we want to see. We want to make sure that if a child falls behind that a school is in a position to be able to lift them up. Simple as that. During the election campaign in 2022, I spoke about no one being left behind and no one held back. And that’s what education and health are at the centre of. Making sure that no one’s left behind. Every child has the opportunity to fulfil their potential, but also making sure that people are looked after in terms of their healthcare. So, this is a really exciting day and it’s a good day. And I do want to thank Jeremy for the relationship that we have, in spite of the fact we’re from different political parties, we’re just concerned about getting things done. And that’s what this is about today. Getting things done in the interests of Northern Tasmanians when it comes to healthcare and getting things done on behalf of all younger Australians, Tasmanians and their families, importantly going forward as well. So, I want to thank Jason Clare as well for the extraordinary work that he has done. Mark Butler, our Health Minister has worked hard on this as well, and that is a very good thing that we’ve been able to achieve this today. I’ll hand over to Jeremy, I will then hand to Jason Clare, the Education Minister, and then I’m happy to take some questions and I’m sure that Jeremy will as well. And then we have some document signing that we’re going to do to fulfil this delivery that we’re announcing today.

    JEREMY ROCKLIFF, PREMIER OF TASMANIA: Thank you very much, Prime Minister. And it’s great to be here with the Deputy Premier, Michael Ferguson, Federal Minister for Education, Jason Clare and Senator Helen Polley. Thank you Fiona, for your commitment and passion to healthcare across the North. As Chief Executive of the Launceston General Hospital, can I say to you a big thanks to all the people that you work with on a daily basis. From administration to the healthcare professionals, to the volunteers that make up this wonderful institution, the Launceston General Hospital, delivering healthcare for many, many thousands of Tasmanians across north and north west Tasmania. This is a great day for healthcare. This is a great day for our schools, education and public investment in education. And I want to thank the Prime Minister for the great collaboration that we have had over the course of the last couple of years. It’s not the first time I’ve stood alongside the Prime Minister when it comes to announcing key partnerships in health. Whether that be GP recruitment, whether that be Urgent Care Clinics. It’s not the first time, of course – we’ve also got partnerships when it comes to urban renewal projects as well. And so what Tasmanians expect is their federal and state governments to work together in the very best interests of them and in this case the best interests served in healthcare and indeed our schools across Tasmania. We made a very clear commitment at the last election that we will deliver a $120 million Heart Centre and that is exactly what will be delivered at this site over the course of the next few years. That commitment has been realised through the strong collaboration and working relationship with the Federal and State Governments. A $120 million commitment from the Federal Government. And can I say Prime Minister, thank you to you, to Mark Butler – who I worked with very closely as Health Minister for a number of years – but also on behalf of all Tasmanians that will of course be cared for through this facility. Northern and north western Tasmania have the highest rates of cardiovascular disease in the country. This is why this investment is so critical and the partnership will endure. The partnership of capital investment from the Federal Government and of course the operational investment from the Tasmanian Government means that this will be delivered. It will be delivered by 2029 and will be servicing Tasmanians, particularly Northern Tasmanians, for many, many decades to come. Can I also pay tribute to Jason Clare, the Federal Minister for Education, and of course our State Minister for Education, Jo Palmer, who would be here if it wasn’t for Budget Estimates in southern Tasmania. I know Jason and Jo have worked very closely in securing this Agreement on behalf of families across Tasmania, our students, of course, in public schools. There is no better investment in productivity and wellbeing than education. And having been Education Minister for seven years, I can well and truly appreciate the need for fair funding when it comes to our public schools, particularly our schools of disadvantage across the country and indeed in Tasmania. That’s why I was very proud to be part of the Gonski Two Agreement as Education Minister, where you apply that fair funding model to support students across our public school environment. What this will mean is an additional $300 million into our public schools over the course of the next five years, focusing on early intervention when it comes to numeracy and literacy, focusing on students well being as well. And when students have good wellbeing, they have a very strong learning environment as well. And so we are committed as a Tasmanian Government, in partnership with the Federal Government, to deliver significant uplift in funding for our public schools over the next five years or sooner. So, thank you for working with us, Prime Minister and Federal Education Minister, Jason Clare. It is a great example of federal and state governments working together. At the end of the day, what Tasmanians care about is good quality services and what they want to see is cooperation in partnership between federal and state government, irrespective of political colour, to deliver for them. And today we have delivered in spades for our public schools and healthcare across Northern Tasmania. And with those few words, I’ll hand to Jason.

    JASON CLARE, MINISTER FOR EDUCATION: Thanks Premier. Can I start by paying credit to the Prime Minister and the Premier. These are two leaders who know how to get the job done and these are two leaders who understand the power of education. The power of education to change children’s lives. And this investment, this announcement that we’re making today, will change the lives of children here in Tasmania. Can I also thank you Deputy Premier. And can I thank my dear friend, the Education Minister of Tasmania, Jo Palmer, who, as the Premier said, can’t be with us because of Estimates. She is a great Education Minister. It’s a privilege to work with her and I’m looking forward to implementing this Agreement that we’ll sign today with her. This is a historic day for Tasmania. It’s a historic day for public education in Tasmania. Today we sign agreements that will make sure that every public school in Tasmania is fully funded, as the Prime Minister said, at that level that David Gonski set for us all those years ago. And the Premier talked about the money, about $300 million. But he also made the point, and I’m glad you did, Premier, about what this money will be invested in. Because it’s not just about the money, it’s what it does. This money will help us to invest in things like a phonics check and a numeracy check in year one or in the early years, to identify children who are falling behind when they’re little and then make sure that we intervene and provide them with the sort of supports that will help them to catch up and to keep up and to finish school. Things like catch up tutoring. We know that when a child’s falling behind in a classroom of 20 or 30, if you take them out of that classroom, into a classroom of two or three, with one teacher, four days a week, 40 minutes at a time, that they can learn as much in six months as they’d normally learn in a year. In other words, they catch up. And if children catch up when they’re young, they’re more likely to go on and finish high school and then go on to TAFE or to university. And the investment in health and wellbeing is just as important. There’s a real and obvious link between education and health. You see it in these two announcements today, but we also see it in our classrooms. Because children that are experiencing mental health challenges are more likely to not be at school, to be absent from school. And by year nine, they’re about a year and a half or three years behind the rest of the children in their class in literacy and numeracy. So, investments in things like psychologists and counsellors to provide that wrap around support at schools can make all the difference in whether a child finishes school or not. Can I end where I began – this is a fantastic example of our two governments working together. And most importantly, it shows what we can achieve when we work together. And when Parliament returns, I’ll introduce legislation to make this extra investment in our children and in Tasmania a reality.

    PRIME MINISTER: Thanks, Jase. Happy to take questions.

    JOURNALIST: Prime Minister, has your Government asked Treasury –

    PRIME MINISTER: We’ve got an announcement to help every child in school and can we have questions about this first? And then I’m happy to go down whatever direction you want. Are there any questions about today’s announcements?

    JOURNALIST: The Education Union has been calling on this for some time. Why are you choosing to fund it now?

    PRIME MINISTER: We’ve been in government for two years and we’re getting it done. We’ve got it done now with the Premier, Roger Cook. We’ve got it done in the Northern Territory, which in particular required a substantial lift up per person in the Northern Territory because so many schools there, particularly in remote areas, have missed out. And we’ve got this done in Tasmania and we’re hopeful of getting it done in other states as well, are imminent. I’ve been speaking with Premiers and Chief Ministers. At the last meeting of the National Cabinet, the Premier and I, as well as other Premiers and Chief Ministers, spoke about how important this was, that we get this done. David Gonski did this work some time ago in the Gillard Government to look at what the level of funding was needed to bring every child up to the best of their potential. And that’s what Jason has spoken about – practical differences that it makes. I think it helps, the fact that Jeremy’s been the Education Minister and gets it. And so I’d encourage the other states to sign up. We’ve got $16 billion on the table. This means that the Commonwealth contribution will be lifted up to 22.5 per cent of that standard and the state contribution will be lifted to 77.5 per cent. Making sure that this is realised, because this is so important and we’ve been able to get it done and we’re getting it done today.

    JOURNALIST: Prime Minister, on the Heart Centre. We know right across Australia, Tasmania is no exception, that there is a critical shortage of healthcare workers. How confident are you that there will be the workers that are needed to make this Centre a success?

    PRIME MINISTER: We’re very confident that that can be done. One of the things that we’re doing as well is making sure that we train additional doctors, that we train nurses and healthcare professionals. I’ve been into TAFEs here in Tasmania, for example, I met young people and people retraining to go back into the health system. That has been very important. So we’ll work as well, we have – as Jeremy said, we had quite an innovative plan for additional GPs here that we announced. I think just down the road in Devonport at the Mercy Hospital. We are working with the Tasmanian Government to make sure that we have that capacity. We do need an appropriate workforce in order to deliver. But the other thing is, if you don’t do the right thing, sometimes you can end up chasing your tail. So, emergency departments get more and more pressure on them, which creates more difficulties in the system. So, we have, for example, our four Urgent Care Clinics that have opened here in Tasmania. We’ve got a fifth coming and there’s a potential of more there. They have seen tens of thousands of Tasmanians – all Tasmanians have needed is their Medicare card, not their credit card. They’ve got the care that we need. I’ve been into the Urgent Care Clinic there in Hobart that has been an enormous success. There’s one here in Lonnie. And what we do if you do that is you stop people going to the emergency departments of hospitals, if they have a broken arm or the kids fall off the bike or the skateboard, or they cut themselves preparing dinner – they can get that care on the spot when they need it, where they need it and for free as part of our commitment to extending Medicare. So, that’s made a difference as well to the system. Okay. Happy to take other things.

    JOURNALIST: Have you asked for a modelling on the impacts of negative gearing, Prime Minister?

    PRIME MINISTER: Look, I’ve seen those reports and what we do is we value the Public Service. So, from time to time I’m sure the Public Service are looking at policy ideas. That’s because we value them. But we have our housing policy. It’s out there for all to see. It’s currently being blocked. At the risk of being partisan here, it’s currently being blocked by a No-alition of the Liberals, the Nationals and the Greens in the Senate. They’re blocking our Help to Buy scheme that’s about increased home ownership. They’re blocking our Build to Rent scheme. I mean, why you would block – the Greens position is that they’re blocking the Build to Rent scheme because if you have medium density housing built, it’ll be built by developers. Well, yeah, hello. I’m not sure who they think builds houses and medium density housing and increases supply. So, our focus as a Government is on supply.

    JOURNALIST: (inaudible)

    PRIME MINISTER: Sorry?

    JOURNALIST: Is your Government considering making changes to negative gearing and capital gains tax concessions?

    PRIME MINISTER: What our Government is considering is fixing housing supply by getting our legislation through the Senate. That’s what we’re considering.

    JOURNALIST: Would you rule out changes to negative gearing and property taxes this term or next?

    PRIME MINISTER: Well, what we’re doing is doing the legislation that we have before the Senate. So, I talk about what we’re doing, not what we’re not doing. And what we’re doing, is trying to get through that legislation through the Senate.

    JOURNALIST: But just to confirm, Prime Minister, your Government has asked Treasury for modelling?

    PRIME MINISTER: No, I didn’t confirm that. Treasury, I’m sure, like other departments do a range of proposals, policy ideas. I want a Public Service that is full of ideas.

    JOURNALIST: The RBA is looking through your rebates (inaudible)?

    PRIME MINISTER: Sorry?

    JOURNALIST: The RBA is looking through your rebates. Have your attempts to get a rate cut failed?

    PRIME MINISTER: What we’ve done is to reduce inflation to half of what it was. Half of what we inherited. Now, there’ll be new figures out tomorrow, or today, actually, we will wait and see what they show in a couple of hours’ time. But we know that the last time around, the monthly figures showed a rate of 3.5 per cent. Which is half, basically, of what we inherited. And we’ve done that, putting that downward pressure on inflation, by producing two budget surpluses, turning a $78 billion deficit into a $22 billion surplus last year. And this year, the financial year just finished, another surplus that will be in double digits in terms of the figures when they’re finally released or finalised in a couple of weeks’ time. So we have as well, we indicated on Monday, that has seen debt decreased by the Commonwealth by around about $150 billion from what was predicted in PEFO, the Pre-Election Forecast, that were there in Treasury of what the former Government was going to deliver. And we’ve done all of that whilst we have given cost of living support. Whether it’s a tax cut for every taxpayer, Energy Bill Relief for every household, 500,000 Fee-Free TAFE places, Cheaper Child Care. While we have delivered all of those measures, as well as delivering important funding, such as what we’ve been able to deliver here in Tasmania. Making sure we’re working to deliver proper services in health and education. That’s what happens when you have responsible economic management. And the Reserve Bank, of course, set interest rates independent of the government – that is their job. Our job is to put downward pressure on inflation, but also look after people. We have had now 980,000 jobs created on our watch. More jobs created since I’ve been elected as Prime Minister than in every previous term of any Prime Minister since Federation. I’m very proud of that. It’s been a difficult economic task, but we have delivered what we have set out to do, which is that downward pressure on inflation whilst we’ve been helping with cost of living relief.

    JOURNALIST: On cost of living, will you introduce new cost of living measures in a pre-election Budget?

    PRIME MINISTER: Well, one of the things that we are going to do, and you will have seen on Monday when it comes to cost of living as well, is take on businesses when they’re not doing the right thing by consumers. Now, this action by the ACCC in taking Woolworths and Coles to court in order to hold them to account for what the ACCC alleges has happened. When you have a packet of Oreos lifted up in prices and by triple the amount in which they’re then decreased and a sign put on them saying that it’s a special, then that is not doing the right thing by consumers. Now people out there are under financial pressure and they’re looking for value, they’re looking for bargains. And so when they go into a supermarket and see ‘special’ or ‘prices down’, they trust that that is the truth. Now it’s not the truth if a supermarket has increased the price by $1.50 from what it was and then a month later put it down by fifty cents and purported to argue that they have decreased the price. That is a breach of trust, it’s a breach of faith. Australians are rightly angry about it, as they should be, and my Government is taking action. The ACCC are taking them to court. We have released on Monday as well exposure drafts of our changes to legislation, as well as our changes to the mandating of the code of conduct for supermarkets, as recommended by Dr Craig Emerson. It is extraordinary that under the former Government you had a voluntary code of conduct, just expecting that people would voluntarily do the right thing. Quite clearly, that’s not good enough, which is why we’re mandating. That’s a part of dealing with cost of living pressures. So we want wages to increase and we’re delivering that, including in Jason’s area, a 15 per cent increase in the wages of early educators in childcare. We have delivered a substantial increase in the wages of aged care workers. We’ve delivered tax cuts on top of that. So we want people to earn more and to keep more of what they earn. That’s all a part of our cost of living measures.

    JOURNALIST: Here in Tasmania, will you exempt the Macquarie Point Stadium from GST calculations?

    PRIME MINISTER: No.

    JOURNALIST: Why not?

    PRIME MINISTER: Because if we did that, we’d have to do the same for the Olympic sites in Queensland, for every infrastructure project in the country.

    JOURNALIST: Wasn’t that done for a stadium in Jim Chalmers electorate?

    PRIME MINISTER: We won’t, well I’m not sure what stadium with hundreds of millions of dollars you’re referring to in Jim’s electorate in Logan. I’m very familiar with the electorate. So we will be, can I make this point. We’ll be exempting this contribution to the hospital, to the Northern Tasmania Heart Centre from the GST. It’s very different. But infrastructure projects, of course, it all adds up. It all evens out. I’m not sure this is understood fully by people in these positions, but when you have the GST equalisation, if you have a proportion of funds invested around the country, then it evens itself out. This is a separate thing which we’ve agreed to exempt from the GST because it’s about healthcare. But infrastructure across the board is not exempt. I was an Infrastructure Minister for six years, I assure you there was no GST exemptions during that period.

    JOURNALIST: Prime Minister, with the Heart Centre comes a lot of money for Northern Tasmania. How concerned are you about your prospects in Lyons?

    PRIME MINISTER: I think Lyons, what I’m doing in every seat, in every state, in the one country of Australia, is governing. We’re doing things here regardless of the political colour. I don’t have a colour coded spreadsheet to determine my funding proposals. And I am working and delivering here in Northern Tasmania, in North West Tasmania, in Hobart. We’re delivering at UTAS down the road here, $65 million each to fix up UTAS and to make it into a much better stadium. We are investing in Macquarie Point, we’re investing throughout Tasmania. We’ll continue to do so and I believe there’ll be an election at some time. If you keep your eye on that white car with the little flag on the front on the day it goes to Yarralumla, then we’ll call an election sometime before, or on or before May, and we’ll put our case to the Australian people. But we have a serious plan for health, a serious plan for education, a serious plan for energy. We’re working here as well. The Marinus Link Project is a great example of the cooperation that was talked about for a long period of time. Well, myself and this Premier have actually got it done. Thanks very much.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN shares thoughts on ASEAN-China relations with Siam Associated Press

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today had an interview with Siam Associated Press on the margins of the 21st China-ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO) in Nanning, China, where Dr. Kao shared his thoughts and perspectives on ASEAN-China relations, regional cooperation and multilateralism.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN shares thoughts on ASEAN-China relations with Siam Associated Press appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Proposals invited for No. 23 Coombe Road at the Peak under Batch VII of Revitalising Historic Buildings Through Partnership Scheme

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Proposals invited for No. 23 Coombe Road at the Peak under Batch VII of Revitalising Historic Buildings Through Partnership Scheme
    Proposals invited for No. 23 Coombe Road at the Peak under Batch VII of Revitalising Historic Buildings Through Partnership Scheme
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         The Development Bureau (DEVB) today (September 25) invited revitalisation proposals from non-profit-making organisations (NPOs) for No. 23 Coombe Road at the Peak, the second historic building under Batch VII of the Revitalising Historic Buildings Through Partnership Scheme (Revitalisation Scheme). The application deadline is noon on January 2, 2025.           No. 23 Coombe Road is a Grade 1 historic building constructed in 1887. It was originally designed as a private luxury house for residential purpose and is now one of the oldest surviving European houses on the Peak.           Guided tours to No. 23 Coombe Road will be arranged for NPOs on October 15 and a workshop will be held on October 17 for attendees to learn about the application procedures and assessment criteria. Interested NPOs can register from now until October 9 at www.heritage.gov.hk/en/revitalisation-scheme/batch-vii-of-revitalisation-scheme/guided-tour-and-workshop/index.html.           The application guide, application form and resource kit containing the historical background of the building and the conservation guidelines, as well as other related information, are available for download at www.heritage.gov.hk/en/revitalisation-scheme/batch-vii-of-revitalisation-scheme/index.html.           The other two historic buildings under Batch VII of the Revitalisation Scheme are Watervale House, the Former Gordon Hard Camp, in Tuen Mun, and the Old Lunatic Asylum (Chinese Block) in Sai Ying Pun. Applications for Watervale House, the Former Gordon Hard Camp, closed on April 10, and 10 applications have been received. The result is expected to be announced in the first half of 2025 upon completion of the assessment. Application arrangements for the Old Lunatic Asylum (Chinese Block) will be announced in due course.           Enquiries can be made to the Revitalisation Scheme Secretariat by email at rhb_enquiry@devb.gov.hk or by phone on 2906 1560.

     
    Ends/Wednesday, September 25, 2024Issued at HKT 15:00

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Walk challenge enrolment starts Oct 1

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Department of Health announced today that it will organise a walking challenge under the “10,000 Steps a Day” Campaign in November to encourage people to increase their physical activities. The enrolment will start on October 1. 

    As this year’s event coincides with the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, the Health Bureau and the department will, for the first time, partner with the Greater Bay Area Mainland cities to organise walking activities during the same period.

    Target participants of the event in Hong Kong are adults aged 18 or above.

    With the slogan “Shall We Walk & Talk”, the walking challenge aims to raise public awareness of the physical and mental health benefits of walking, encourage friends and colleagues to support each other and walk 10,000 steps daily, the department explained.

    Participants are required to enrol in the event and record their step count during the challenge period through “e+Life”, the recently launched health challenge platform under the eHealth app.

    Participants reaching a daily average of 10,000 steps during the challenge period will be awarded an electronic certificate of achievement.

    Interested individuals can enrol through “e+Life” by logging into the eHealth app from October 1 to 31, while interested workplace organisations can register with the department on or before October 15.

    After successful enrolment of the workplace organisation, their staff will be able to select their respective organisations when enrolling through “e+Life”, and the step counts of participating staff will be attributed to the organisation they choose. 

    According to the Population Health Survey 2020-22, nearly a quarter of persons aged 18 or above performed an insufficient level of physical activities, and about one in seven persons aged 15 or above reported spending 10 hours or longer sitting or reclining each day, the department noted.

    It added that walking brings us plenty of health benefits including improving cardiopulmonary function, strengthening muscles and bones, reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as obesity, hypertension and diabetes, as well as relieving symptoms of anxiety and depression.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Delays on SH1 south of Christchurch to South Canterbury tonight

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

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    SH1 south of Christchurch particularly from Rolleston to the Rangitata River bridge will be slower than normal this evening, with urgent night work at the Ashburton/ Hakatere River bridge tonight.

    The urgent work from 8pm Wednesday to 3 am Thursday will add another 15 minutes to overnight travel. There are already multiple sites with varying delays of up to 30-minutes north of the Rangitata, says NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA).

    NZTA crews are repairing the highway pavement and potholes at the northern approach to the Ashburton/Hakatere River Bridge tonight.

    NZTA thanks all Ashburton and South Canterbury drivers for their patience this evening and overnight as this key piece of highway maintenance is completed while the weather is on our side.

    Tags

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Appointment to Standing Committee on Directorate Salaries and Conditions of Service

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Appointment to Standing Committee on Directorate Salaries and Conditions of Service
    Appointment to Standing Committee on Directorate Salaries and Conditions of Service
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         The Government announced today (September 25) that the Chief Executive has reappointed Mr Jack Chan Hoi as a member of the Standing Committee on Directorate Salaries and Conditions of Service (the Directorate Committee) for a term of two years from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2026.      The Directorate Committee tenders advice to the Chief Executive on matters relating to the structure, pay and conditions of service of directorate ranks in the civil service. It is chaired by Mrs Ann Kung Yeung Yun-chi. Other serving members are Ms Margaret Cheng Wai-ching, Mr Kevin Lam Sze-cay, Ms Zabrina Lau Shing-yan and Ms Jacqueline Ng Wai-kwan.

     
    Ends/Wednesday, September 25, 2024Issued at HKT 15:00

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Yue Kwong Road Sports Centre to reopen

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Yue Kwong Road Sports Centre to reopen
    Yue Kwong Road Sports Centre to reopen
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         The Leisure and Cultural Services Department announced today (September 25) that Yue Kwong Road Sports Centre in Southern District will reopen for public use from October 2 (Wednesday). This venue was temporarily closed earlier for renovation works.     Members of the public can reserve these reopened fee-charging facilities from tomorrow (September 26) via the SmartPLAY website (www.smartplay.lcsd.gov.hk/home), the mobile app (My SmartPLAY), Smart Self-service Stations, or via the service counters at leisure venues and the District Leisure Services Offices. For enquiries, please contact the venue staff at 2554 9132.

     
    Ends/Wednesday, September 25, 2024Issued at HKT 15:00

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Temporary closure of multipurpose arena at Ap Lei Chau Sports Centre

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Temporary closure of multipurpose arena at Ap Lei Chau Sports Centre
    Temporary closure of multipurpose arena at Ap Lei Chau Sports Centre
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         The Leisure and Cultural Services Department announced today (September 25) that the multipurpose arena of Ap Lei Chau Sports Centre in Southern District will be temporarily closed from October 2 (Wednesday) for refurbishment works, which are expected to be completed in the third quarter of 2025. During the closure period, the public may use similar facilities at Aberdeen Sports Centre, Yue Kwong Road Sports Centre, Wong Chuk Hang Sports Centre and Stanley Sports Centre in the same district.     For enquiries, please contact the venue staff at 2554 0832.

     
    Ends/Wednesday, September 25, 2024Issued at HKT 15:00

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Young persons in custody at Lai King Correctional Institution attain good examination results (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Young persons in custody at Lai King Correctional Institution attain good examination results (with photos)
    Young persons in custody at Lai King Correctional Institution attain good examination results (with photos)
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         Young persons in custody (PICs) at Lai King Correctional Institution (LKCI) of the Correctional Services Department (CSD) were presented with certificates at a ceremony today (September 25) in recognition of their efforts and achievements in studies and vocational examinations.     In the past year, a total of 42 PICs of the institution sat for various academic and vocational examinations including the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education Examination (HKDSE), the Aptis – British Council English Assessment Test and the General Aptitude Putonghua Shuiping Kaoshi, and obtained vocational certificates covering Food Safety and Hygiene, Food and Beverage Services, Coffee Making and Latte Art Training, Bakery and Pastry Making, Cantonese Cooking as well as Beauty Care organised by the Christian Action and the Vocational Training Council. During the year, the PICs attained 66 merits out of 182 certificates obtained. In the ceremony today, 20 PICs were presented with 116 certificates, of which 41 were marked with merits.      Officiating at the ceremony, the Chairman of Tung Sin Tan (TST), Mr Ha Tak-kin, said that TST has been highly supportive of the rehabilitation work of the CSD, and has set up the Tung Sin Education Fund to provide education and vocational training subsidies to PICs with financial difficulties to enable further studies. He encouraged the young PICs to equip themselves well and adopt a proactive learning attitude to prepare for reintegration into society.     During the ceremony, the young PICs delivered a music performance with Chinese drums and western musical instruments, and a traditional Chinese dance performance to demonstrate their learning outcomes and show gratitude to their families and correctional officers for their unwavering support. Through the performance, the PICs expressed their aspirations for pursuing a new beginning, allowing participants of the ceremony to witness their determination to change.           In the sharing session, a young PIC expressed thanks to her family members for their encouragement, which has enabled her to return to study and optimise her time to study hard, thus attaining satisfactory results in the HKDSE. Her mother shared the joy of witnessing positive changes of her daughter and she appreciated the dedication of correctional officers which have made her realise the importance of rehabilitation work.     Also attending the ceremony were representatives of non-governmental and community organisations, community leaders and family members of the certificate recipients.     LKCI accommodates young female PICs aged from 14 to under 21. The Department provides half-day education programmes and half-day vocational training for PICs to help them rehabilitate and prepare for their reintegration into society.

     
    Ends/Wednesday, September 25, 2024Issued at HKT 15:06

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: FSTB publishes consultation conclusions on promoting paperless corporate communication for Hong Kong companies

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    FSTB publishes consultation conclusions on promoting paperless corporate communication for Hong Kong companies
    FSTB publishes consultation conclusions on promoting paperless corporate communication for Hong Kong companies
    ******************************************************************************************

         The Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau (FSTB) published today (September 25) the consultation conclusions on promoting paperless corporate communication for Hong Kong companies. The report outlines the views received during the consultation period, and sets out the Government’s response and the way forward.      The public consultation was conducted from November 27, 2023, to January 26, 2024. The FSTB received a total of nine submissions from the community, including business chambers, professional bodies and public organisations.      The FSTB briefed the Panel on Financial Affairs of the Legislative Council on the legislative proposals, consulted the Standing Committee on Company Law Reform, and organised a briefing session to introduce the legislative proposals to seven industry organisations.      A spokesman for the FSTB said, “We are pleased to note that the proposals to promote paperless corporate communication for Hong Kong companies have received general support from the community. Respondents agreed that the proposals will help enhance the cost-effectiveness and operational efficiency of companies, thereby achieving the objectives of streamlining procedures and promoting a green business environment. Respondents also provided valuable comments on different aspects of the proposals, including introducing an implied consent mechanism, removing the separate notification requirement, and enhancing protection of shareholders’ interest.”      The FSTB is drafting the Amendment Bill and plans to introduce it into the Legislative Council within this year. The Government hopes that the community will continue to support the implementation of the legislative proposals.      The consultation conclusions have been uploaded to the website of the FSTB at www.fstb.gov.hk/fsb/en/publication/consult/consult_paperless.html.  

     
    Ends/Wednesday, September 25, 2024Issued at HKT 15:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Transcript – doorstop – Western Sydney University

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    ANDY MARKS [PRO VICE-CHANCELLOR WSU]: Morning, everybody. My name is Andy Marks from Western Sydney University. I want to acknowledge the traditional owners of the land on which we’re meeting today and pay my respects to elders past, present and emerging. This is a fantastic next stage on a journey that we’ve been on in [the] Hawkesbury that goes back more than a hundred years, in fact, when this facility was one of Australia’s first in pioneering the education and research of agriculture in Australia. What we see today with the announcement of stage one funding for the Agri Tech Hub is something that takes that to another level. It’s about an array of infrastructure investments in Western Sydney on the part of the Federal Government, and how they can do the main game for [the] Hawkesbury, which is generating jobs and jobs of the future. So I won’t say any more today other than to introduce our distinguished guests. First of all, the most distinguished, our local member, Susan Templeman. Susan, please.

    SUSAN TEMPLEMAN [FEDERAL MEMBER FOR MACQUARIE]: Thanks, Andy.

    ANDY MARKS: No offence, guys.

    SUSAN TEMPLEMAN: Yeah. Susan Templeman, Member for Macquarie. It is such a pleasure to be here to bring to fruition a conversation that started several years ago and followed with an election commitment of $16.7 million, and to now be at this point knowing that the investment that we are making as a federal government is going to have long term benefits economically for this community, and importantly, for agriculture across not just New South Wales, but Australia – and, we hope, the world. What we’re able to bring here and what we’ll see grow over time is an agritech precinct that is really going to, as Andy has said, take that story of agriculture in the Hawkesbury, which began when colonial settlers saw how fertile this area was. This is the area that fed Sydney when it was in famine, and these are really significant things in the settlement of Australia. And of course, we looked at how [the] First Nations used this land – they also found it was bountiful. So, this is an exciting next step to take agriculture for the Hawkesbury region and Western Sydney into the 21st century. I’m very pleased to have the Minister for Infrastructure, Catherine King, who has supported this project from the start and was key to it being an election commitment and being able to announce that. And I’m so delighted that she’s here to take this next step.

    CATHERINE KING [MINISTER]: Thanks.

    [Applause]

    Thanks very much. It’s great to be here. Susan, and also with George as well. And it’s my first opportunity to actually come on site to see the delivery. Now we’re releasing- the stage one funding is being released for this project, and an important project it is, not just for the Hawkesbury but for Western Sydney overall, making sure that we are investing in new technology for agriculture. Agriculture we want to grow to a much more significant level in this country than we have currently. It’s incredibly important, and being able to have the sorts of technology, the research and development here, I’m looking forward to being able to look at some of the research that’s being done on vanilla bean producing, barramundi producing out on this site, but also looking at what that means for the future.

    With only sort of 40 minutes to the new Western Sydney International Airport, this university will also be an incredibly important way that our agriculture sector can look at how it can preserve goods to getting them to market much more quickly. That over $5 billion investment we’re investing in building the airport actually is very critical to this university here as well in making sure that we’ve got the technology, the research into the future. So I do want to commend Western Sydney University for the foresight on actually developing this site in the way in which they have. And really, the investment- we’re going to be looking forward to seeing not only lots of students here involved and being part of this site, but very much the research that is to come out of Western Sydney University for agriculture into the future. Making sure we’ve got a sustainable, good and healthy food supply is pretty critical to not just our nation, but the world. So I do want to commend them and very pleased to be here on site today. I might hand over to George.

    GEORGE WILLIAMS [VICE-CHANCELLOR AND PRESIDENT WSU]: Thank you minister, and thank you to the local member for their [sic] steadfast support of this project. This is something special for Western Sydney and Hawkesbury. It’s special because it’s bringing AI to agriculture in a way that’s going to transform jobs in this area. We expect there’ll be 240 jobs supporting this facility. And it’s a really great example of taking Western Sydney to the world. This is a world-leading facility that is going to be looking at how we have sustainable, effective agriculture from the beginning to the end of the food chain, and it’ll be doing that in ways that will be of enormous international interest. In our case, we’ve already got great interest from India, for example, who want to work with us because of this facility to bring the technology, the expertise not only to India, but to Asia and the Middle East. And that will be a great initiative for us to lead in this area with our researchers and partners, to actually deal something quite special that will be transformative here and more broadly.

    It’s also a particularly special investment because of Western Sydney. And of course, it’s not just an investment in agritech we’re seeing, it’s agritech plus the airport, plus the enormous growth in infrastructure, plus all of the great developments we’re seeing in people around this region. And this is the sort of investment that goes back not only to 1891 when the Hawkesbury College was first established, but of course much further back to colonial times. And it’s expression of that now in a world class, high tech way that will not only drive jobs, but actually drive that investment through the airport and the like, to bring this to the world and to do something that we think not just for Western Sydney University, but more importantly for our students, for our staff, but also the community is going to deliver enormous benefits, not just next year, but over the coming decades. So thank you. We appreciate the support and we believe with this, this is going to be a game changer for agriculture and technology in this region.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Asian Development Blog: The Fed Has Cut Interest Rates: What Does This Mean for Asia and the Pacific?

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    The recent interest rate cuts by the United States Federal Reserve present opportunities and challenges for central banks in Asia and the Pacific. Policymakers must adopt a balanced, country-specific approach to navigate potential inflationary pressures, exchange rate volatility, and capital inflow dynamics.

    The United States’ Federal Reserve (Fed) kicked off a long-anticipated monetary policy loosening cycle at its September Federal Open Market Committee meeting, cutting interest rates by 50 basis points. Committee members project another 50 basis points of cuts this year, and that Fed loosening will continue in 2025.

    This could have significant consequences for the global economy, including for developing economies in Asia and the Pacific.

    Inflationary pressures in have continued declining in the region this year, as commodity prices stabilized and the lagged effects of last year’s monetary tightening took hold. As a result, most of its central banks have paused their hiking cycle, with some switching to policy rate cuts. Others may now follow suit.

     In shaping their policy stance, central banks in emerging economies need to take account of interest rate differentials with the US, which impact capital flows and exchange rates. The Fed rate cut opens up the opportunity for more of the region’s central banks to loosen policy to stimulate domestic demand and growth, without triggering capital outflows and exchange rate depreciations.

    Still, since the pace and length of the Fed loosening cycle remains uncertain, an appropriate policy response in Asia and the Pacific will require caution and a careful balancing act, for a number of reasons.

    One option for central banks is to cut rates in the wake of the Fed. This would support growth, but it may also revive price pressures and encourage excessive borrowing in economies where household and corporate debt levels are already high.

    Alternatively, central banks in the region could continue to maintain a relatively tight monetary stance—e.g., by cutting interest rates with a lag and/or less than proportionally with respect to the Fed.

    In such a case, the lower interest rates in the US could increase capital flows to Asia and the Pacific, as investors adjust their portfolios toward assets with more attractive yields. This could boost equity and bond markets across the region, providing some breathing space to more vulnerable economies.

    However, capital inflows could also present some challenges, as significant swings in short-term portfolio investment could increase financial market volatility. 

    Additionally, higher capital inflows may result in exchange rate appreciations vis-à-vis the US dollar in the region. This would benefit economies heavily dependent on oil and other commodity imports, reducing price pressures and improving trade balances. For economies with high US dollar-denominated debt, the depreciation of the US dollar would make it easier to sustain the debt burden.

    The beginning of the Fed monetary loosening cycle brings challenges and opportunities for Asia and the Pacific.

    On the other hand, exchange rate appreciations would boost imports, with potentially negative effects on current accounts. In the medium term, stronger currencies could also hamper export growth, particularly for economies reliant on exports of traditional manufacturing goods, such as garments or textiles, which depend mainly on price competitiveness.

    This variety of potential effects and channels suggests that  policy responses to the Fed loosening cycle in Asia and the Pacific will need to be country-specific and nuanced, and include a combination of the following measures.

    As well as adjusting interest rates, monetary authorities in the region could rely on targeted measures, such as on banks’ reserve requirements, to affect financial and liquidity conditions. Forward guidance can also be an effective tool to anchor inflation expectations and reduce uncertainty and financial volatility, by clearly laying out the future path of monetary policy for market participants and economic agents.

    For economies receiving increasing capital inflows, well-developed financial markets are key to absorb the inflows and turn them into productive investment in the domestic economy. Policy action should focus on increasing competition, efficiency, and transparency in the financial sector, with the central bank or other overseeing independent authority providing adequate supervision.  

    To deal with the risks associated with rising capital inflows, capital flow management measures and macroprudential policies can be used, including measures aimed at mitigating exposure to currency mismatches.  Where capital inflows result in excessive currency appreciation, targeted intervention in foreign exchange markets could help reduce volatility, while also increasing foreign exchange reserves.

    Fiscal policy could be used the cushion the impact of falling exports. Depending on fiscal space, stimulus could be directed at several objectives, including boosting consumer spending; incentivizing activity in particular sectors with stronger multiplier effects on the rest of the economy; and infrastructure, energy-saving, climate-adaptation, and other projects aimed at addressing structural gaps, which would also boost the economy’s productive potential.

    The beginning of the Fed monetary loosening cycle brings challenges and opportunities for Asia and the Pacific. Lower interest rates in the US and a weaker dollar could lower import costs, boost financial markets, and spur larger capital flows toward the region. But these positive developments would not be without risks, including possible exchange rate volatility and renewed inflationary pressures.

    Policymakers will need to adopt a flexible approach, remaining vigilant and proactive in taking advantage of the opportunities and addressing the risks.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Association sings praises of Music Service at awards

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    It was one of 15 teams and organisations from across the region to be showcased at the annual event, which celebrates and enables councils to share best practice.

    Wolverhampton Music Service provides high quality tuition and musical opportunities for youngsters from schools across the city, including the chance to perform with its flagship groups, Wolverhampton Youth Orchestra and Wolverhampton Youth Wind Orchestra.

    Last year, it delivered around 500 hours of tuition to nearly 7,000 children in 82 schools across the city every week, and runs 15 free ensembles enjoyed by over 500 children and young people on a weekly basis.

    Staff performed concerts to 54 primary schools in May during its #LiveMusicWton week and curated 4 large scale events at The University of Wolverhampton at The Halls enjoyed by over 7,000 pupils. Meanwhile, 66 students took part in a successful tour to Europe this summer where they performed 3 concerts in Italy.

    The Music Service also works with partners to deliver additional Youth Theatre shows, rock and pop projects, inclusive music making sessions for special schools, Indian music provision and continued professional development for school staff.

    Councillor Jacqui Coogan, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: “Music is an incredibly important part of a child’s education.

    “It helps pupils develop their concentration and memory, improves their confidence and – in an era when you can get everything at a touch of a button – teaches them about perseverance, because learning to sing or play an instrument takes a great deal of time and commitment.

    “Our Music Service does a fantastic job, inspiring and educating thousands of children and young people every week, and I am delighted that it has been recognised for its work by the West Midlands Association for Directors of Children’s Services.”

    Jo Britton, Chair of West Midlands ADCS Network, said: “This year we have a real variety of disciplines represented, including those working in the fields of youth justice, early help and education.

    “For me, this cuts to the core of what we do, and what we do is the best for our children, young people and their families. It doesn’t matter if we are working with a child who may be on the edge of criminality, or supporting another who has a passion to play a musical instrument, because when it comes to it, working holistically means we support each child in the right way and at the right time.”

    To find out more visit Wolverhampton Music Service. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Joint press conference, Brisbane

    Source: Australian Treasurer

    JIM CHALMERS:

    Thanks, everyone, for coming. I’m going to say a few things about the inflation number. Katy’s going to talk about inflation and the Final Budget Outcome. Then I wanted to preview my trip to China this week, and then obviously happy to take your questions.

    The new inflation numbers for August showed that headline and underlying inflation both went down substantially. Headline inflation went down from 3.5 to 2.7 per cent. This is less than half the 6.1 per cent we inherited, and it’s now less than a third of its peak.

    Trimmed mean inflation went down from 3.8 to 3.4 per cent. That is the lowest in more than 30 months. If you exclude volatile items, it went down from 3.7 to 3. Non‑tradeable inflation, which is what others call homegrown inflation, went down from 4.5 to 3.8 per cent. And services inflation went down as well.

    These are very welcome, very encouraging and very heartening numbers. We expected headline inflation to come down. We’ve also seen underlying inflation come down considerably. That’s a very good thing.

    Our policies are a factor here, but they’re not the only factor. If you look at rents, they went up 6.8 per cent in the year to August, but without our increases to rent assistance, they would have increased by 8.6 per cent. Electricity prices fell 17.9 per cent in the year to August, but without the energy rebates they would have decreased 2.7 per cent.

    But the story here goes beyond the government’s policies, which are helping in the fight against inflation. Whether it’s rent, whether it’s energy rebates, our cost‑of‑living policies are an important part of the story, but they’re not the whole story here. We’re seeing right across a number of measures of inflation, including underlying inflation, that it is has come off considerably in the new numbers that we see today.

    These are heartening numbers, encouraging numbers, they’re welcome numbers. But we’re not getting carried away because we know that the monthly numbers can be volatile. We know that inflation doesn’t always moderate in a straight line and we know that people are still under pressure. That’s why our cost‑of‑living help is so important, and it’s also why our responsible economic management is so important, and Katy’s going to say a few things about that.

    KATY GALLAGHER:

    Thanks, very much, Jim. It’s lovely to be here in your home city today.

    CHALMERS:

    You’re always welcome, Katy.

    GALLAGHER:

    It’s glorious to be here. Thanks, Jim.

    What we’re seeing is our responsible economic management is helping in the fight against inflation, and you’re seeing that in those numbers today.

    That budget management, particularly our returning revenue to the budget, findings savings in the budget and reprioritising spending, has helped us with our budget improvements that we’re seeing.

    On Monday we’ll be releasing the Final Budget Outcome. That will show our second surplus and it will be an improvement on the number that we released during the Budget. That improvement in the budget outcome is not related to increased revenue but is related to less spending on the spending side of the budget. We know from the comments that the RBA Governor has made in the past that surplus budgeting is helping in the fight against inflation. You’ll see that reflected in the FBO that we do on Monday.

    That’s really our approach to budgeting, Jim and mine – find savings, return revenue, deliver budget surpluses when the inflation challenge has been what it has. That’s helping overall in that fight against inflation.

    CHALMERS:

    I’ll just say a few things to preview meetings in China, and then we’re happy to take some questions.

    The key influences on our economy right now are the inflation that we’ve been talking about today combined with global economic uncertainty and the impact of the rate rises which are already in the system. Those 3 things are combining to slow our economy substantially.

    Particularly when it comes to the Chinese economy, we’ve seen a weakness in the Chinese economy which obviously has consequences for us. We’re not immune from weakness in the Chinese economy. That’s why it’s so important that over the next 2 days I’ll be meeting with key Chinese counterparts in Beijing.

    This is another really important step towards stabilising our economic relationship with China. This will be the first visit to China by an Australian Treasurer in 7 years. It will be part of the Albanese Government’s methodical and coordinated efforts to re‑establish dialogue with China, Australia’s largest trading partner.

    The main purpose of this visit is to co‑chair the Australian‑China Strategic Economic Dialogue with the Chairman of the National Development and Reform Commission. That will happen tomorrow.

    Our relationship with China is full of complexity and it’s full of opportunity. We recognise that a more stable economic relationship between Australia and China is a good thing for Australian workers and businesses, investors and our country more broadly. That’s why just in the last week in the context of these meetings in China I’ve consulted directly with the chairs, CEOs and senior executives of major China‑facing Australian employers, including Rio Tinto, Wesfarmers, BHP, Woodside, Fortescue, Macquarie, BlueScope, HSBC, King & Wood Mallesons, Port of Newcastle, Sydney Airport, Cochlear, University of NSW and GrainCorp, and I’ve also been consulting with the Business Council of Australia.

    We believe that dialogue and engagement give us the best chance to properly manage and maximise these really important links.

    Our approach to China has been to cooperate where we can, disagree where we must, but always engage in Australia’s national interest.

    The Strategic Economic Dialogue hasn’t been convened since 2017, but our government has agreed with Chinese counterparts to restart it, and I’ll be meeting with other counterparts from the Chinese government during my 2 days of engagements as well.

    We recognise that there’s a lot at stake and a lot to gain from a more stable economic relationship with China.

    We’ve got a big opportunity to make sure that both countries benefit from the complementarity of our economies while always advancing and protecting Australia’s national interests.

    With that, I’m happy to take some questions.

    JOURNALIST:

    Will the Treasury be looking at negative gearing and capital gains tax?

    CHALMERS:

    First of all, the real story today is inflation. The story today is about a substantial moderation in headline and underlying inflation in our economy. We’ve got a housing policy, and that’s not in it. We’ve made that clear today.

    JOURNALIST:

    Did you direct Treasury, though, to look into negative gearing policy changes, perhaps to take to the election?

    CHALMERS:

    Treasury looks at all kinds of policy options all of the time. It’s not unusual for the public service – and in my case, my department, and I’m sure Katy’s department is the same – to examine issues that are being speculated about in the public or in the parliament. That’s how a good public service operates.

    JOURNALIST:

    But you’ve basically agreed with the argument that reining in negative gearing will have a negative impact on rental supplies?

    CHALMERS:

    I’m not going to engage in hypothetical impacts of hypothetical policies when we’ve already got a housing policy. We’ve got a housing policy which is about building more homes for Australians. It’s about making it easier to rent and to buy.

    We know from today’s inflation figures that we’ve taken some of the sting out of rents. But rents are still too high, and that’s because we don’t have enough homes. Our motivation throughout this has been to build more homes for Australians. That’s what our $32 billion of investment, including $6 billion in the last Budget, is all about.

    If our political opponents cared about housing, they would vote for our policies in the Senate. Instead, in their usual, characteristically destructive way, both the Greens and the Coalition are teaming up to prevent more homes being built. Building more homes is the best way to ensure that people can find a home to rent or buy.

    JOURNALIST:

    On the Stage 3 tax cuts you argued several times that the circumstances have changed and that the government has formed a different view. Can voters expect you to make that same argument on negative gearing in the lead‑up to the next federal election?

    CHALMERS:

    I’m very proud of the changes that we made to the Stage 3 tax cuts because it meant that every Australian taxpayer gets a tax cut, not just some. We explained our rationale and our reasoning for that at the time, and you referenced that in your question. The changes to Stage 3 at the beginning of this year meant that more people got a bigger tax cut to help with the cost of living. We’re proud of what we did. We were upfront and we explained that changes that we made. I think the public has recognised that we’re trying to do the right thing.

    JOURNALIST:

    Would your government consider a legitimate use of tax laws and not [indistinct] current negative gearing figures?

    CHALMERS:

    We’ve made it clear that our housing policy is all about building more homes. More homes for Australians, making it easier to rent or buy a home at a time when there aren’t enough homes. That’s what’s pushing rents up, even with our efforts, with Commonwealth Rent Assistance.

    When it comes to tax changes, our priorities have been the PRRT, the biggest balances in superannuation, tax incentives for build‑to‑rent and other tax policies that we’ve already announced.

    JOURNALIST:

    Polling does show the public is open to negative gearing changes, so why not do that?

    CHALMERS:

    We’ve got a housing policy and that’s not in it.

    Our housing policy, I’ve explained answering some of these other questions, is to build more homes for Australians – $32 billion across 20 different policies now. We’ve made it clear what our housing policy is, and we want to see it pass through the Senate. If our political opponents to the left of us and to the right of us really cared about housing, they’d support our policies in the Senate.

    JOURNALIST:

    But I guess policy‑making is dynamic, right? Why not look at negative gearing? Are you insisting that – was it either you or Minister Gallagher that asked Treasury to have a specific [indistinct] negative gearing?

    CHALMERS:

    Treasury looks at all kinds of different policies from time to time. It’s not unusual for us to get advice from departments on issues that are being speculated about in the public or in the Parliament. That’s not an especially unusual thing.

    I couldn’t haven clearer today – we’ve got a housing policy. It’s costing the budget $32 billion. We’ve found room for that even in the context of turning 2 big Liberal deficits into 2 big Labor surpluses for the reasons that Katy outlined a moment ago. We’ve got a housing policy and that’s not in it.

    It’s not unusual for governments to get advice from time to time from departments on issues which are in the public domain.

    JOURNALIST:

    Just going back to inflation, looking at that 3.4 per cent rate, do you think Michelle Bullock needs to look at cuts a bit sooner?

    CHALMERS:

    I’m not going to give free advice to the Governor of the Reserve Bank. I don’t tell Michelle Bullock how to do her job and she doesn’t tell me how to do my job, and that suits us both just fine.

    Underlying inflation has come off substantially in these new numbers today – from 3.8 to 3.4 is very encouraging, very welcome, very heartening when it comes to underlying inflation.

    I refer you back to our political opponents and critics who said that today’s numbers would only reflect the energy bill rebates, which we are proud to be delivering for every Australian household. I wanted to make a couple of points about that.

    They say that that is artificially lowering inflation. There is nothing artificial about helping people with their power bills. We know that the Liberals and Nationals don’t support that, but we’re proud to be helping people with their power bills because we know that people are under pressure. Same when it comes to Commonwealth Rent Assistance, cheaper medicines, getting wages moving again and the tax cuts.

    The other point that I would make about headline versus underlying is you may recall a couple of years ago in the former government’s last Budget they had changes to the fuel excise which had the same impact when it comes to temporarily modifying the headline inflation rate. I don’t remember them making these points then.

    We’re proud to be helping people with the cost of living. We’re proud to be doing that in the context of a responsible budget and a couple of surpluses, which our opponents were incapable of delivering after 9 attempts. We’ve gone 2 from 2.

    So we’re providing cost‑of‑living help. We’re not just seeing headline inflation coming off, we’re seeing underlying inflation coming off as well. Not just the main measure of underlying inflation, headline is down, trimmed mean is down, excluding volatile items is down, non‑tradables is down and services is down as well.

    Across the board, across the main measures, in this data today we’re seeing very welcome, very encouraging progress. We’re not getting carried away because we know that people are still under pressure. That’s why our cost‑of‑living help is so important.

    JOURNALIST:

    When do you expect to receive the Treasury advice on that negative gearing policy?

    CHALMERS:

    As I said a couple of different ways now, we get advice all of the time on different kinds of issues which are in the public domain and before the Parliament. It’s not especially unusual for the public service to be doing that. We’re not expecting one piece of work, which is implied in your question. We get briefed regularly on all sorts of policies and all kinds of issues, and that’s as it should be.

    JOURNALIST:

    I’ll just try one more time: when will Australians know if your government is going to make changes to negative gearing or capital gains reductions?

    CHALMERS:

    I’ll say the same thing I said in response to all of the other questions – and I understand why you’re asking it, I’ve got no problem with you asking these questions – but we’ve got a housing policy and that’s not in it.

    For all of the reasons I’ve gone through a few times today, we think that the highest priority needs to be building more homes. Housing supply is our big priority as a government. It’s not easy to find $32 billion in one policy area, but the fact that we’ve done that, working closely with Julie Collins and now Clare O’Neil, that demonstrates to Australians how serious we are about fixing the issue that we have with housing supply.

    You can’t click your fingers and overnight build the 1.2 million homes that we need over the next 5 years. You need to come at it in a responsible way, a considered, methodical way across a range of different policies.

    We’ve announced our policies on housing. We want to see them pass through the Parliament. We want to see the money flowing, and we want to see the houses being built, because that’s the best way we can make housing more affordable for more Australians.

    JOURNALIST:

    Is it still frustrating to see that the RBA is not taking into account the fact that electricity and fuel is coming down, but they are not enforcing these rate cuts?

    CHALMERS:

    I don’t see it that way, and for the same reasons as in my answer to your earlier question.

    I don’t second guess the decisions taken by the independent Reserve Bank or the commentary that they make about those decisions.

    It’s a good thing that Governor Bullock makes herself available and senior officials make themselves available to talk with the Australian public about how they’re seeing the economy and what that means for inflation and interest rates. That’s a good thing that they take those opportunities to do that. I don’t second guess that. I don’t parse every word that the governor says.

    We’re focused on our, and our job has been to deliver 2 big Labor surpluses, to roll out cost‑of‑living help, to be helpful in the fight against inflation.

    What we see in these numbers today – in these very welcome and encouraging numbers today – is that our policies are helping in the fight against inflation.

    That is a big part of the story but it’s not the only story. That’s why underlying inflation is coming off as well. We’re managing the economy responsibly. The Governor of the Reserve Bank has her own job to do, and it is good and welcome that Governor Bullock takes the opportunity to explain her part of it in the same way that we’ve been explaining our part of it here today.

    Thanks very much.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: First exhibition of “Ink Art Ensembles” exhibition series in Greater Bay Area to be staged in Shenzhen (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         In collaboration with the Shenzhen Fringe Art Center, the Art Promotion Office under the Leisure and Cultural Services Department is presenting the “Ink Art Ensembles” exhibition series in the Greater Bay Area (GBA) to bring together nine artists from Hong Kong and the Mainland to form new artistic expressions with new styles of contemporary ink art. The five exhibitions in the series will be staged in four cities in the GBA, namely Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Foshan and Dongguan, enabling visitors to experience the rich and diverse cultural charm of the region while appreciating the beauty of ink art. The first exhibition, “New Dynamics of Qi Yun” kicked off the series in the form of a joint showcase, and is running at the Shenzhen Art Museum from September 24 to November 6 with free admission. The exhibition is also one of the programmes in the 4th Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Culture and Arts Festival.
          
         The exhibition series is curated by Hong Ko from Hong Kong and Eric Zhu from Shenzhen. The “New Dynamics of Qi Yun” showcases 19 sets of works. The participating artists include Raymond Fung, Ross Yau, Tony Ng, Barbara Choi, Xing Lili, “_.WAV_Studio_ “(Cao Yuxi and Lau Hiu Kong), Ou Tingzhu and Wen Qiuwen. The artists redefine the meaning of ink art and revitalise its dynamics through painting, sculpture, installation art, multimedia art and fashion design.
          
         The other exhibitions in the series will be presented by one Hong Kong artist in collaboration with another art group from other GBA cities. While the Hong Kong artist will focus primarily on ink art as the theme or medium, the other GBA art group will respond to the art work by the Hong Kong artist through various artistic mediums, thus inspiring creativity and showcasing the achievements of contemporary art and future trends.
          
         For details of each exhibition and the latest information, please visit the website of the Art Promotion Office www.apo.hk/en/web/apo/there_ink_art_ensembles.html, and follow the “apothere” page on Facebook www.facebook.com/apo.there and Weibo https://weibo.com/apothere.                                

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: New “Cross-boundary Health Record” and “Personal Folder” functions of eHealth to be extended to three additional medical institutions under Elderly Health Care Voucher Greater Bay Area Pilot Scheme starting next Monday

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Health Bureau (HHB) announced today (September 25) that the new functions of the “Cross-boundary Health Record” and “Personal Folder” in the eHealth mobile application (eHealth App) will be extended to the Nansha Division of The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University (FAH-NS), Dongguan Tungwah Hospital (Tungwah Hospital) and Shenzhen New Frontier United Family Hospital (NFUFH) under the Elderly Health Care Voucher Greater Bay Area Pilot Scheme (Pilot Scheme) starting from next Monday (September 30) to enhance the continuity of medical care for Hong Kong citizens through facilitating their secure use of electronic health records (eHRs) across the boundary.
     
         Starting from next Monday, eligible elderly persons who use Elderly Health Care Vouchers at the three aforementioned hospitals can apply for their eHRs deposited in eHealth over the past three years through the “Cross-boundary Health Record” function in advance. Upon verification of an elderly person’s authorisation, a “File QR Code” and “Password QR Code” will be sent to the elderly person via the eHealth App. Healthcare professionals can then access and browse the relevant eHRs by scanning the two QR codes presented by the elderly person at the time of consultation at designated medical institutions to assist in diagnoses and treatment. Following system enhancements, the time required for verification of applications and preparation for eHRs has already been reduced to no more than 24 hours. Elderly persons should submit their applications one day prior to their consultations at the designated medical institutions to ensure that their eHRs will be ready for use at the time of the consultations.
     
         Moreover, elderly persons can deposit medical-related records obtained during consultations received in medical institutions outside Hong Kong into their eHealth personal accounts through the “Personal Folder” function to facilitate storage and use of personal medical-related records obtained in and outside Hong Kong, including access by authorised healthcare providers in Hong Kong through eHealth during follow-up consultations.
     
         The HHB has already set up support stations at the FAH-NS, Tungwah Hospital and NFUFH to assist Hong Kong citizens to get a better grasp of how to use the relevant functions. Citizens may visit the eHealth thematic website for more information.
     
         The Government piloted the new “Cross-boundary Health Record” and “Personal Folder” functions of the eHealth App at the University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital in July this year and extended the functions to the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University and Zhongshan Chen Xinghai Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine under the Pilot Scheme on September 6. The feedback has been positive. Taking into account the implementation experience, the Government will further streamline the workflow and enhance the user experience in a bid to better support citizens’ cross-boundary healthcare needs.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Les Mills expands global reach of premium fitness services through the Digital Vending Machine® from Bango

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CAMBRIDGE, United Kingdom, Sept. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bango (AIM:BGO) is pleased to announce a strategic partnership with Les Mills, a premier global fitness service provider, to globally expand the accessibility of its digital fitness subscriptions. LES MILLS+ is now available through the Digital Vending Machine® (DVM™), enabling telcos and other resellers to offer this high-quality fitness service to their customers as a bundle, add-on, or as part of a Super Bundling content hub.

    The popularity of at-home workouts has skyrocketed in recent years, driven by their convenience and accessibility. The proliferation of digital fitness platforms, innovative home gym equipment, and the widespread adoption of remote work have fueled this trend. Virtual fitness classes, personalized training apps, and online workout communities now offer individuals a multitude of ways to stay active from home.

    LES MILLS+ offers an unparalleled workout experience with exceptional trainers, motivating music, and science-backed routines designed for optimal results. With this new partnership, telcos can now provide their customers access to these world-class workouts, whether they prefer to exercise at the gym, at home, or on the go. By tapping into the growing demand for fitness and wellness, telcos can diversify their content offerings with LES MILLS+, while Les Mills expands its reach through these new telco channels.

    The DVM™ enables telcos and other resellers to quickly, easily, and cost-effectively broaden their range of third-party services. It allows them to scale their subscription service offerings at a much faster rate than traditional in-house solutions. A single connection to the DVM™ opens up a wide array of subscription services for telcos, allowing them to deliver various bundles, discounts, and offers to attract and retain customers. For content providers like Les Mills, this means significantly extending their subscription service reach to consumers worldwide beyond their direct market channels. Consumers benefit by gaining access to the best deals on their favorite subscriptions.

    “Distribution is key. Reaching a wider audience is crucial, and the Digital Vending Machine® is the perfect solution. It simplifies the process of distributing our service to a broader audience, reducing complexity and saving time, allowing more people worldwide to stay fit and healthy with Les Mills workouts and programs.” Luke Waldren, Chief Customer Officer at Les Mills.

    “Les Mills is a fantastic addition to the Digital Vending Machine®, enriching the range of content available to telcos with fitness services. The variety of content enhances appeal and aligns perfectly with Super Bundling content hubs, providing telcos with an excellent way to offer a broad range of subscription services in one convenient place.” Anil Malhotra, CMO at Bango.

    About Bango

    Bango enables content providers to reach more paying customers through global partnerships. Bango revolutionized the monetization of digital content and services, by opening-up online payments to mobile phone users worldwide. Today, the Digital Vending Machine® is driving the rapid growth of the subscriptions economy, powering choice and control for subscribers.

    The world’s largest content providers, including Amazon, Google and Microsoft trust Bango technology to reach subscribers everywhere.

    Bango, where people subscribe. For more information, visit www.bango.com

    About Les Mills

    Les Mills is the global leader in group fitness and creator of over 25 programs available in leading fitness facilities around the world. Les Mills programs include the world’s first group exercise resistance training workout BODYPUMP™, BODYCOMBAT™ (martial arts), RPM™ (indoor cycling), BODYBALANCE™ (yoga), LES MILLS GRIT™ (30-minute high-intensity interval training) and its latest fitness innovation – LES MILLS FUNCTIONAL STRENGTH.

    The company was founded by Les Mills – a four-time Olympian and head coach of New Zealand’s track and field team – who opened his first gym in 1968 with the aim of taking elite sports training to the masses. Today, Les Mills workouts are delivered by 130,000 certified instructors in 21,000 clubs across 100 countries, as well as via the LES MILLS+ streaming platform and Extended Reality (XR).

    Media contact: 

    Anil Malhotra, CMO, Bango 
    anil@bango.com 
    Tel: +44 7710 480 377 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Crown Minerals Bill Advances Colonisation

    Source: Te Pati Maori

    Today, the Crown Mineral Amendment Bill was read for the first time, reversing the ban on oil exploration off the coast of Taranaki.

    It was no accident that this proposed law change was read directly after the Government started to unravel the ability of iwi and hapū Māori to have their rights in the Foreshore and Seabed recognised with the Takutai Moana Amendment Bill.

    “The insidious timing of the Crown Minerals Bill demonstrates this government’s true priorities: Short-term profit has been chosen over the rights and well-being of Māori communities, our moana, and our whenua.”  Said MP for Te Tai Hauāuru and Te Pāti Māori Co-Leader, Debbie Ngarewa-Packer.

    “Whānau, hapū, and iwi Māori are the last line of defence against mega rich oil and gas companies relentlessly mining and drilling our seabeds and causing irreversible damage to our Taiao.

    “This is textbook colonisation. They have come to our land, they are taking our resources, and they are selling them off to the highest bidder – with no benefit to Māori.

    “This will not be the last exploitative bill passed by this government. Once they erase the few rights we have left, there will be nothing stopping them from plundering and pillaging as they please.

    “For years, ngā iwi o Taranaki have been determined to permanently rid their coastlines of exploitative oil exploration. 

    “No one wants to go backward. The government must collaborate with Taranaki iwi and hapū to transition toward renewable energy.

    “Te Pāti Māori believes that the only way forward is to ban seabed mining permits nationwide, withdraw existing permits and introduce a national Māori strategy for renewable energy,” said Ngarewa-Packer.

     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Politics with Michelle Grattan: Richard Holden says no interest rate fall likely for 12 months

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

    For many Australians, the COVID-19 pandemic has become a fading memory as the world has moved away from lockdowns and masks. However, its lasting impacts, including persistent inflation, remain.

    Academic economists Steven Hamilton and Richard Holden, in their just-published book, Australia’s Pandemic Exceptionalism, examine how Australia fared in handling the COVID crisis in its economic and health policies.

    We’re joined on the podcast by Holden to talk about the book and also Australia’s economic outlook, during what has been a big week for economic news.

    On COVID, Hamilton and Holden found a mixed picture: Australia scored highly in its economic response but fell down on its vaccine procurement and provision of RATs.

    I think Treasury gave excellent advice to the Treasurer [Josh Frydenberg]  and he not only […] took that advice but was able to sell it to a sometimes sceptical cabinet. […] So I think it was good advice and strong leadership on the economic front. On the health front, I think the advice was really quite poor at times. I mean we make quite a point of Scott Morrison’s use of the phrase when it comes to vaccines “It’s not a race” when clearly it was a race. It was a race against the virus. It was a race to get vaccinated. It was a race to be able to reopen our economy.

    On the RBA and inflation, Holden agrees with this week’s decision to hold rates but believes they should have risen earlier at least once more:

    I have argued […] that late last year or early this year, the Reserve Bank should have raised rates at least one more time to get us closer to what happened in peer jurisdictions overseas, to try and beat inflation faster. The Reserve Bank has taken a different approach. They want to have interest rates peak, maybe a full percentage point lower than in places like the US, and they’re willing to tolerate inflation for longer.

    At least they’re not caving into political pressure from people like Jim Chalmers and Wayne Swan to precipitously cut interest rates and I give the governor, Michele Bullock, great credit for standing firm on that, including in her press conference remarks [on Tuesday].

    On when interest rates will start moving down, Holden gives a grim assessment:

    My view is the most likely case is very late in 2025, somewhere about 12 months from today. Again, it’s going to depend on the inflation numbers and I’d like nothing more [than] for us to be well inside the target band and for interest rates to be able to be moderated.

    I think it’s a real shame that we took a different strategy in Australia to what peer jurisdictions overseas did, which was raise rates more aggressively, take our medicine, have tamed inflation and now be cutting rates. That’s the story in the US and several other jurisdictions.

    Holden warns against RBA Governor Michele Bullock making predictions of future rate moves:

    Governor Bullock, I think, is at risk of repeating, albeit a milder version of, the mistake that Philip Lowe made in providing forward guidance. Now it’s not as dramatic as saying interest rates are not going to rise until 2024, which was sort of three years of forward guidance or thereabouts. Governor Bullock has fallen into, I think, a little bit of a trap by saying over six weeks ago that she and her colleagues on the board didn’t think that interest rates would be cut this calendar year.

    I don’t really understand what the virtue of her doing that was. I think that was probably, in hindsight, something that she may regret. [Although] I don’t think it will do any real damage because I think it’s a prediction that’s incredibly likely to come true.  

    On the government potentially making changes to negative gearing, Holden outlines why it could be a good idea:

    Getting rid of negative gearing would put potential owner-occupiers on a level playing field with investors at an auction. I think it’ll be very good news for people trying to move from the rental market into being owner-occupiers; I think it’ll be good news for the classic Australian dream. To be fair about it, the existence of negative gearing is something that puts downward pressure on rents. So negative gearing, in a funny way, is good for renters who are always going to rent but bad for renters who want to buy. So there are pros and cons.

    It was a good idea eight or nine years ago. I think it’s still a good idea today and I think it’s interesting that the government seems to be at least floating the test balloon.

    Michelle Grattan does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Politics with Michelle Grattan: Richard Holden says no interest rate fall likely for 12 months – https://theconversation.com/politics-with-michelle-grattan-richard-holden-says-no-interest-rate-fall-likely-for-12-months-239820

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN delivers lecture at Guangxi University

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today delivered a lecture at Guangxi University in Nanning, China. The lecture was titled “Fostering Friendship and Cooperation: The Role of People-to-People Connections and Exchanges in ASEAN-China Relations” and was attended by hundreds of college students from multidisciplinary backgrounds. During the lecture, Dr. Kao shared various achievements that both ASEAN and China have made in realizing people-to-people connections, particularly in the areas of culture, education, youth, and the digital economy.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN delivers lecture at Guangxi University appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Serious crash, Depot Road, View Hill

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Emergency services are responding to a serious crash on Depot Road, View Hill, in Waimakariri District.

    The single vehicle crash occurred near Eyre River and was reported to Police at 8pm. 

    The road is closed between Woodstock Road and Woodside Road.

    At this stage there is no confirmed information regarding injuries.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Communication proposals get support

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Financial Services & the Treasury Bureau today published the consultation conclusions on promoting paperless corporate communication for Hong Kong companies, outlining the views received during the consultation, along with the Government’s response and the way forward.

    The public consultation was conducted from November 27, 2023, to January 26, 2024, during which nine submissions were received from the community, including business chambers, professional bodies and public organisations.

    Noting that the paperless corporate communication proposals received general support from the community, the bureau said the respondents agreed that the proposals will enhance cost-effectiveness and operational efficiency of companies, thereby achieving the objectives of streamlining procedures and promoting a green business environment.

    Respondents also provided valuable comments on different aspects of the proposals, including introducing an implied consent mechanism, removing the separate notification requirement, and enhancing protection of shareholders’ interest, it added.

    The bureau has briefed the Legislative Council Panel on Financial Affairs on the legislative proposals, consulted the Standing Committee on Company Law Reform and organised a briefing session for seven industry organisations.

    Additionally, it is drafting the amendment bill and plans to introduce it into the Legislative Council within this year. The Government hopes the community will continue to support the implementation of the legislative proposals.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Groundbreaking study revises the origins of biodiversity An international team of scientists has made a groundbreaking discovery that could reshape our understanding of how global biodiversity evolved.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    The findings of the study could revolutionise the way we think about the evolution of biodiversityAn international team of scientists has made a groundbreaking discovery that could reshape our understanding of how global biodiversity evolved.
    By reconstructing the evolution of species over the past 45 million years, researchers found that the geographic origins of many plants, insects and mammals are more closely linked than previously thought.
    Led by the University of Aberdeen in collaboration with Bangor University in Wales, Lakehead University in Canada, and several Indonesian institutes including IPB University in Bogor, the team used Southeast Asia – one of the world’s most biodiversity-rich regions – as a natural laboratory to trace the geographic origins of a wide range of species.
    Their findings challenge long-standing theories that groups of flora and fauna evolved separately on different landmasses before diversifying across the region.
    Central to this research is a new evolutionary model, developed at the University of Aberdeen, which enabled the team to include extinct species in their analysis for the first time.
    This innovative approach has not only provided a more complete evolutionary picture but has paved the way for a fresh understanding of how biodiversity arose and spread across landmasses. The model is now being used in international collaborations to revisit the evolutionary history of other continents, promising to reshape our understanding of global biodiversity.
    “We wondered whether several groups of plants and animals could have the same geographic origin as new geological evidence contrasted with current reconstructions of species’ origin and spread,” said Dr Leonel Herrera Alsina, Research Fellow at the University of Aberdeen’s School of Biological Sciences. “However, the ongoing extinction of species throughout evolution takes away key information to reconstruct the past.”
    The inclusion of extinct species in the modelling process allowed researchers to trace evolutionary patterns further back in time, revealing that many groups of species in Southeast Asia spread across the entire region earlier than previously thought.
    This result reinforces the idea that land bridges existed and acted as stepping stones in the spread of species out of Borneo and Continental Asia.
    “Previous methods ignored the impact of extinct species but, by incorporating them, we’ve been able to create a more accurate and comprehensive picture of how the incredible biodiversity of this region evolved,” said Professor Lesley Lancaster, Personal Chair at the University of Aberdeen.
    “This new understanding aligns with recent geological findings and could transform how we view the origins and spread of species globally.”
    Professor David Burslem, Director of the Interdisciplinary Institute at the University of Aberdeen, emphasised the broader significance of the study: “This research underscores the importance of studying ecological and geological processes in unison. The evolutionary patterns we see today are deeply intertwined with the region’s geological history. Integrating these disciplines allows us to better understand the origins of biodiversity and how it has developed over millions of years.”
    The study, published this week by the Royal Society, sheds new light on the evolutionary history of life on Earth and offers valuable insights into how evolutionary processes can be integrated into conservation prioritisation, helping to safeguard biodiversity as ecosystems face increasing pressures from climate change.
    “Our findings revolutionise the way we think about the evolution of biodiversity, not just in Southeast Asia but globally,” added Professor Justin Travis, Personal Chair at the University of Aberdeen. “This model, now being used in collaborations around the world, opens the door to revisiting long-held theories about evolution on other continents as well.
    “The work sets the stage for future research that will revise our understanding of how species have adapted and diversified over millions of years.”
    The research was funded by UKRI’s Natural Environment Research Council (NERC). The paper is published in the journal, Proceedings of the Royal Society, Series B.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: From metal products to ice cream: what Moscow supplies to new export markets

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Thanks to the city’s support, Moscow producers have increased exports of processed and food products to Africa and Southeast Asia since the beginning of 2024. This was reported by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Transport and Industry Maxim Liksutov.

    “In accordance with the order of Sergei Sobyanin, the city is actively helping the capital’s enterprises develop trade and economic cooperation. For example, the volume of mutual trade between Moscow and Indonesia for the first half of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023 has almost doubled. Among industrial goods, the drivers of development were metalworking products, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, as well as products of the food and processing industries,” said Maxim Liksutov.

    The capital’s enterprises supply products for healthy nutrition, dentistry, as well as medicines and cosmetics.

    “Moscow’s non-resource, non-energy exports to Indonesia in the first half of 2024 have grown almost 10-fold compared to the same period last year. For example, in 2024, Moscow producers supplied semi-finished steel products to this country for the first time. The food industry is also showing positive dynamics – compared to the first six months of last year, supplies have grown by more than 19 percent,” said the Minister of the Moscow Government, Head of the Moscow Department of Investment and Industrial Policy

    Anatoly Garbuzov.

    The mutual trade between the Russian capital and Senegal has also increased almost 2.5 times compared to the previous similar period. Thus, supplies of Moscow ice cream, popular there, have grown by 78 percent.

    Starting from 2022, the capital’s producers of non-raw materials, non-energy products have reoriented their export flows and found new partners in the markets of Latin America, Africa, the Middle East, Southeast Asia and the CIS countries. This became possible, among other things, thanks to the support of the Mosprom center.

    A digital platform is operating within the framework of the national project “International Cooperation and Export” “My export”, where entrepreneurs are provided with support. For example, there you can get free expert advice, analytics, help in promoting products on international marketplaces, and also take online training. More information about national projects implemented in the city is available at special page.

    Which BRICS countries have become the main buyers of Moscow products

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

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

    http://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/144405073/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Proposals invited for building revamp

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Development Bureau today invited revitalisation proposals from non-profit-making organisations (NPOs) for Grade 1 historic building, No. 23 Coombe Road at the Peak.

    Constructed in 1887, the building was originally designed as a private luxury house for residential purposes and is now one of the oldest surviving European houses on the Peak.

    The building is included under the Batch VII of the Revitalising Historic Buildings Through Partnership Scheme

    The application deadline is noon on January 2, 2025.

    Guided tours of No. 23 Coombe Road will be arranged for NPOs on October 15 and a workshop will be held on October 17, for them to learn about the application procedures and assessment criteria.

    Interested NPOs can register online from now until October 9.

    For enquiries, call 2906 1560 or send an email.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Video Message from Prime Minister Kishida regarding the HeForShe Summit 2024[Speeches and Statements]

    Source: Government of Japan – Prime Minister

    [Provisional translation]

    I would like to extend my congratulations on the 10th anniversary of the HeForShe initiative. It is a great pleasure for me to celebrate this milestone with our host of tonight’s event, Ms. Bahous, Executive Director of UN Women, the champions in attendance, and all of you who support the Initiative.

    As a HeForShe Champion, I have made four commitments: women’s economic independence, proactive dissemination of information on women’s participation and advancement, further enhancement of the partnership with UN Women, and ending conflict-related sexual violence.

    I have contributed to gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls through a range of initiatives, from disclosing information on gender pay gaps in the country and reforming tax and social welfare systems to actively contributing to UN Women and other international organizations.

    As we approach the 15th anniversary of the establishment of UN Women and the 25th anniversary of the adoption of the Security Council resolution on “Women, Peace and Security” next year, Japan will continue to make efforts to achieve gender equality both domestically and abroad.

    Thank you for your attention.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Interest rate of second interest payment for series of retail green bonds due 2026

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Interest rate of second interest payment for series of retail green bonds due 2026
    Interest rate of second interest payment for series of retail green bonds due 2026
    **********************************************************************************

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:     The Hong Kong Monetary Authority, as representative of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, announced today (September 25) the relevant per annum interest rate for the second interest payment of the series of retail green bonds due 2026 (Issue Number: 03GR2610R; Stock Code: 4273) (the Retail Green Bonds) issued under the Government Sustainable Bond Programme (previously known as the Government Green Bond Programme).           According to the Issue Circular dated September 18, 2023 for the Retail Green Bonds, the second interest payment of the Retail Green Bonds is scheduled to be made on October 10, 2024, and the relevant interest rate is scheduled to be determined and announced on September 25, 2024 as the higher of the prevailing Floating Rate and Fixed Rate.            On September 25, 2024, the Floating Rate and Fixed Rate are as follows: Floating Rate: +1.80 per cent (Annex)Fixed Rate: +4.75 per cent      Based on the Floating Rate and Fixed Rate set out above, the relevant interest rate for the second interest payment is determined and announced as 4.75 per cent per annum.

     
    Ends/Wednesday, September 25, 2024Issued at HKT 17:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Immigration Department repatriates 20 Vietnamese illegal immigrants to Vietnam (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Immigration Department repatriates 20 Vietnamese illegal immigrants to Vietnam (with photos)
    Immigration Department repatriates 20 Vietnamese illegal immigrants to Vietnam (with photos)
    ******************************************************************************************

         The Immigration Department (ImmD) carried out a repatriation operation today (September 25). A total of 20 Vietnamese illegal immigrants were repatriated to Vietnam. The persons removed comprised seven men and 13 women, all of whom were unsubstantiated non-refoulement claimants. Among them were discharged prisoners who had committed criminal offences and had been sentenced to imprisonment.      The ImmD has been committed to promptly removing unsubstantiated non-refoulement claimants from Hong Kong to maintain effective immigration control and safeguard the public interest. Under the updated removal policy effective from December 7, 2022, the ImmD may generally proceed with the removal of a claimant whose judicial review case has been dismissed by the Court of First Instance of the High Court, thereby enhancing the efficiency of and efforts in removing unsubstantiated claimants.      The ImmD will remain committed to expediting the removal process to repatriate illegal immigrants and overstayers from Hong Kong as soon as practicable according to the actual situation through appropriate measures as necessary.

     
    Ends/Wednesday, September 25, 2024Issued at HKT 16:51

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Healthway’s new Executive Director

    Source: Government of Western Australia

    Healthway’s Chief Executive Officer, Colin Smith today announced Carina Tan-Van Baren as the new Executive Director of Healthway.

    Carina has more than 30 years of experience as a lawyer, journalist, communications strategist, government advisor, and commercial executive and will be commencing in her new role on Monday 14 October 2024.

    Carina has delivered positive strategic outcomes for listed and unlisted companies, not-for-profit organisations and government departments and agencies, many in the health sector. Carina brings a strong understanding of the roles played by the wide range of stakeholders participating in Health Promotion across Australia.

    Healthway’s Chief Executive Officer, Colin Smith said that Carina’s multi-disciplined perspective and skill-set means she is well placed to lead Healthway through this next phase to deliver on our new strategic plan.

    “Carina brings a strong understanding of the roles played by the wide range of health promotion stakeholders across Australia,” he said.

    “Her experience will complement the depth and breadth of health promotion experience we already have here at Healthway, with a focus on advocacy, government and stakeholder relations.

    “I look forward to Carina joining us and I’d also like to thank Joanne Graham-Smith for acting in the Executive Director role for 16 months and look forward to her valuable ongoing contribution to achieving our vision of creating a healthier WA together.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Press Conference Government House, Adelaide

    Source: Minister for Trade

    Minister for Trade, Don Farrell: Good afternoon everybody, and please take a seat, don’t stand on formality. I thank the Governor for making her home available to us today to hold this press conference with my very good friend, the Trade Minister for India, Piyush Goyal, it’s absolutely wonderful to have you here.

    When I first became the Trade Minister for Australia, I was lucky enough to be invited to Piyush’s home in New Delhi, and have a wonderful feast with him and his wife, and a little bit later on today I’m going to return the favour. We’re heading out to the magnificent Clare Valley, and we’re going to have a wonderful meal out in the Clare together this evening.

    We’ve just wrapped up our face‑to‑face meeting, and it’s the first meeting that we’ve had since the Modi Government was recently re‑elected, and of course follows on the weekend’s events between our Prime Minister and Prime Minister Modi in Delaware, with the Japanese and the American leaders.

    I think it’s fair to say that the relationship between Australia and India has never, ever been closer. And to reflect that, is the economic relationship between our two countries, and it has never ever been better.

    Following our Trade Agreement that was ratified during the course of this Parliamentary session, trade with India is turning out to be a really big win for Australia, and today we held in‑depth discussions on how to accelerate that trading relationship. And in addition to that, our investment relationship viability on the enormous growth that we’ve just seen in recent times.

    Just to give you some examples of that, in the 18 months since our Trade Agreement with India came into force, nearly $30 billion worth of Australian exports have entered India either with zero tariffs or lower tariffs than any of our competitors.

    Agricultural exports to India are up around 60 per cent to $1.6 billion, and we know how important that is to the South Australian economy.

    Industrial equipment and manufacturing exports are up 66 per cent or $145 million, and our health exports to India have increased by nearly 40 per cent to $33 million.

    Australian consumers are of course benefitting by our trade deals with savings at the checkouts worth around $225 million, thanks to the lower tariffs on products that are coming in from India.

    During our meeting, Minister Goyal and I discussed how we can grow our two‑way trade and investment even more. The key focus of today’s discussion was our next free trade agreement called the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement.

    Our trade negotiators recently met in Sydney, and today’s discussions show that there’s real momentum here to get an agreement as we work out the details.

    For Australia, we’ve made it clear that we have much to offer our friends in India, particularly in agriculture, as well as the emerging sectors we are building as part of our Future Made in Australia.

    We also exchanged a Memorandum of Understanding on investment cooperation between Austrade and Invest India, which will help boost two‑way investment between our countries.

    Our Government has also wrapped up consultations on our new India Economic Roadmap. We’ve held over 400 consultation sessions across every Australian State and Territory and in India.

    Over the past two days, Minister Goyal has heard from a range of Australian businesses who see wonderful opportunities to partner with India in sectors like green energy, education skills, tourism, agriculture and technology, and in a few moments the Minister and I will walk up to the Australian Space Agency headquarters to meet some of the Australian space start‑ups that are partnering directly with India.

    Our Government is committed to driving more practical cooperation between Australian and Indian businesses. That’s why today I’m announcing $10 million in new grants for Australian businesses, organisations and universities to boost cooperation with India.

    By extending the $10 million Maitri Grants program, the Government will deliver, firstly, $5 million for Australian organisations working on projects that boost trade and innovation, cultural ties and community leaders, and then a further $5 million for scholars and fellowships to support Australian universities to host some of the brightest Indian students in their research, on some of our biggest shared challenges.

    As I indicated before, the Minister and our wives, will be heading out to the magnificent Clare Valley, and we’ll continue to discuss the wonderful opportunities between our two countries. I’ll invite my good friend Piyush to say some words about today’s events and his time in Australia.

    Indian Minister for Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal: Thank you very much Honourable Don Farrell, Member of Parliament and Minister for Trade and Industry, someone I look upon as not only a friend and well‑wisher, but a brother who has been a guide, who has helped me understand trade nuances, very sensitive, ever‑smiling, and a well‑wisher of the Australia-India partnership.

    Thank you very much for your warm hospitality, thank you very much for bringing me to Adelaide for the first time. What a beautiful city, charming, a place we’ve heard about from childhood. Where cricket matters and in the good old days, we had five‑day test matches where every wicket falling was blown all over the television and radio. But to actually be right across from the Adelaide stadium is truly a memorable visit for me.

    We had very good engagement with Australian business persons in Sydney over the last two days, the excitement is truly palpable on both sides, Australian business and Indian business.

    For the first time ever both our major chambers, the conflagration of Indian industries and the conflagration of Indian chambers of commerce and industry were represented by their top leadership together as a testimony of the importance that the Australia relationship is to India.

    We are looking at significantly upscaling our partnerships in trade, investment, tourism and technology, and therefore one of the first announcements I’d like to make is that we shall shortly be setting up in Sydney an office covering all these four areas, ITTT, investment, trade, technology, and tourism. With representatives of Invest India, representatives of the organisation responsible for building industrial smart cities and townships, meeting representatives of our Export Trade and Guarantee Corporation, and other officials related to trade and tourism.

    Along with the private sector, CII jointly manning these offices to act as a bridge between investors and businesses on both sides and working closely together with Austrade with whom Invest India has today exchanged an MOU for mutual investment promotion, technology and trade facilitation, and other insights into economic trade.

    Thank you very much, Don, for giving us the encouragement to work together on these areas. And I’m sure the unprecedented ties that our two countries are sharing today with nine in‑person meetings since May 2022, in less than three years, nine in‑person meetings of our senior leaders, both Prime Ministers, reflecting the big bonding that both Prime Ministers, political leadership have with business-to-business and people‑to‑people connect that Australia and India share.

    Friends, today is a very important day in India. We are celebrating 10 years of our Making India Program. Prime Minister Modi on 25 September 2014, had launched this initiative, and through the Making India Program over the last 10 years we have significantly had a whole of government approach to addressing the challenges that manufacturing in India increase. Whether it’s provision of plug-and-play infrastructure, a national single window for all approvals, regulators reducing compliance burden or decriminalising laws, opening up foreign direct investment in newer sectors making it easier to invest in India, or encouraging the start of ecosystem. It’s been a multi‑pronged approach to attract manufacturing in India, and I do see a lot of promise between the Making India Program and the Future Made in Australia program that your government has launched, so that we can exchange the technologies, exchange opportunities and encourage businesses on both sides to work with each other.

    This enhanced cooperation via education, via skill development, tourism, investments, critical minerals, which we discussed at length today, or renewable energy, green ecosystem towards sustainability, all of these other areas where this relationship holds tremendous potential. And India is committed to partner with Australia to provide a bouquet of opportunities to our business persons on both sides so that we can work towards a greater and more ambitious relationship on the economic front.

    Friends, as Minister Farrell mentioned, ECTA, and I think some of you may recall, ECTA in India, in Hindi, is unity. This agreement has truly been a game‑changer providing greater market access to businesses on both sides and has resulted in a significant increase in merchandise trade. We’re looking at further strengthening the ECTA through to the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, the CECA, and we do hope to see a greater flow of goods and services along with investments flowing out of the CECA, which we are looking to conclude at an early date to unlock new dimensions in this partnership and provide further momentum to this business relationship.

    Friends, I must mention that we have also discussed at length greater cooperation at various multilateral fora like the WTO, the G20, the IPEF and other international organisations where Australia and India share common interests.

    India is the world’s fastest growing economy today. We grew at 8.2 per cent last year. The economy today is the fifth largest in the world, expected to become the third largest in the next three years. We will cross the $7 trillion mark by 2030, and the $10 trillion mark by 2034, 10 years from now.

    We are very confident of achieving a developed country status by 2047. [Indistinct] 2047 is our ambition, is our goal, taking up our economy to 10 times today’s size, to $35 trillion economy in the next 25 years or so, so that we can meet the aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians for a better quality of life. And I see Australia playing an important role in this journey towards making India a developed nation, a role to greater trade, a role to exchange of technologies, a role in our common goals for sustainability and a significant role when it comes to provision of high-tech services and investments.

    India offers the advantage of four Ds. The first is our democracy. We have a vibrant democracy, the world’s largest democracy, the Rule of Law prevails, it provides safety and security for investment and people. And I think in today’s day and age, two democracies working together provides a great comfort to investors in the long run.

    The second D is our demographic dividend, a young population with an average age of 28.4 years, expected to remain young for many, many more years to come, with two‑thirds of our population in the working age to providing skills, talent and huge manpower force to help the economy to move faster.

    The third D is demand. 1.4 billion aspirational Indians, demanding high quality goods and services is a huge market opportunity, and growth opportunity.

    And the fourth D is decisive leadership. The Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Government are willing to reform, transform and perform to take the country to greater heights. I’m very confident that together we shall make the Australia-India partnership a defining partnership of the decade, if not the 21st Century. The kangaroos and the tigers together have a combined strength which is unstoppable. Thank you.

    Minister for Trade: I think we should give Piyush a clap for that. Thank you, very much, my friend, and we’ll open to questions.

    Journalist: This one’s for both Ministers. Can you give an update on the CECA negotiations? You made progress of the outstanding points of difference, and do you see an agreement for Australia [indistinct]?

    Minister for Trade: We are very optimistic that the good work that was done today will result in an expanded agreement. As we saw with the United Arab Emirates, when both parties put their mind to it we can very quickly expedite the discussions to finalise an agreement. I’d be hopeful that goodwill on both sides, and you can see today, that’s been demonstrated here – I think with goodwill we can very quickly resolve this issue, and we can have a new upgraded agreement between Australia and India.

    Piyush Goyal: Madam, I think the important and defining feature of our discussions and negotiations is the sensitivity that both sides have to each other’s issues, defensive interests, offensive interests. All are considered together in a manner which will only result in a win‑win situation. So any issue that I can see Australia will be uncomfortable with I would not like to push, press on that, and likewise our approach has been that if something is very sensitive to a large Indian population given our current status of development, Australia has been very gracious in their understanding of our sensitivities.

    It is my deep confidence in each other that helps us to resolve issues very fast, and I’m very confident that the final agreement will only help grow this relationship. You saw that our first agreement didn’t have any negative press or any negative public outcry. I’m sure the second agreement will correspondingly be a good mix of the good things that people want out of the agreement.

    Minister for Trade: I think it’s worthwhile repeating that when we were last in India together we committed to increasing our trade from its current $49 billion two‑way trade to $100 billion by the end of the decade, and I think we’re ‑ I’m certainly happy, and I think I speak for Piyush here, to restate that today.

    We want to double that trade between our countries between now and the end of the decade.

    Journalist: Just on that, Minister Goyal, India has traditionally been hesitant about removing barriers to Australian exports in sensitive sectors like dairy. Have you had consultations with those domestic producers and has the Government consulted with its Coalition partners on any of those sensitivities?

    Piyush Goyal: First of all, the Government in India is a strong government. The Coalition is a pre‑poll alliance. So we have very seamless consultations and very seamless understanding of any decisions that the Government takes.

    As regards dairy, that sector was discussed even before we started the negotiations with Australia three years ago, and Indian dairy is very significantly different from Australian dairy.

    Our average holding with a farmer is a small two‑acre, three‑acre farm with three or four livestock, whereas Australia’s farms and dairy farms are both very large, and it would be near impossible for these large farms and these small farms to compete with each other on a common footing.

    We have discussed this issue even three years ago and on earlier occasions, and dairy is such a sensitive subject that in any of our FTAs across the world, we have not been able to open up the dairy sector with duty concessions there is permitted in India, but there are certain duties imposed on that.

    This is one sector where there’s no discussion with any Coalition partner, even when we were a full majority government there was no opening up of the dairy. It’s actually two very unequal situations and would not lend themselves to fair trade between the two countries, or between any countries. We have neither opened up dairy in Europe, or planning to open up dairy in Europe, nor have we opened it up even with Switzerland and Norway, with whom we have recently concluded an FTA under the EFTA grouping – Switzerland, Norway, Lichtenstein and Iceland. Even then we have not opened up dairy. It’s the first agreement Switzerland has signed without any component of dairy in it.

    Journalist: You predicted that China will bring its pursuit of all lobster type business. Given your previous predictions on the subject have proven optimistic, why do you have the confidence that this will be resolved in the next few months?

    Minister for Trade: I’m an optimistic sort of person, and I think the only way you can do this job is to be optimistic. If you think about this, when we came to government two and a half years ago, we had $20 billion worth of impediments between Australia and China.

    We have reduced that over time to less than $1 billion and one product that is still outstanding unfortunately is lobster.

    We’ve recently had meetings both with the Chinese Premier, and also my counterpart, Wang Wentao, in fact as Piyush has done. They both came to Adelaide, it’s becoming a bit of a feature of international trade these days, everyone’s coming to Adelaide. I’m confident that we can resolve the outstanding issues in a timely manner.

    It is unfortunate that that issue hasn’t been resolved. The Government is doing its absolute best to resolve it, but these issues do take time, and we’ll continue to work very closely with the Chinese Government to put aside all of the outstanding issues between our two governments.

    Journalist: Paul Starick from The Advertiser in Adelaide. Two questions, one for both ministers. You mentioned agriculture as a significant component of the next stage of your agreement. Do you care to elaborate on that, what particular opportunities do you see? And secondly, for Senator Farrell, regarding an unrelated issue at the Whyalla steelworks. The Premier has talked about the importance of that as a national enterprise. Do you agree, and what response given its current predicament do you think is appropriate at a national level?

    Minister for Trade: Well, look, in terms of agriculture, we’re talking about the removal of all of the tariffs that weren’t removed at the last process, so we’ve made very significant progress, but as the Minister said, some of the more difficult issues were not resolved at that issue, we put them to one side, they’re all back on the table. So things like chickpeas, pistachios, and apples. So, all of the issues, all of the products where there are still tariffs ‑ wine is another one ‑ we are seeking to have those tariffs removed.

    I’m not going to go to the details of the negotiations, it’s not appropriate to do that here, but we’ll continue to work through, and as Piyush said, where issues are difficult, we understand that, and we’re not going to make life any more difficult for the Indian Government.

    On the other issue, I’m aware that there have been some discussions between the Prime Minister and the Premier over the issue of Whyalla. Obviously steel making is a very important business in Whyalla. As a government we want to see steel making continue, and of course all of those jobs be protected, and we will, of course, continue those discussions between the Prime Minister and the Premier.

    Minister, you might like to answer that first question.

    Piyush Goyal: I think as you very rightly put it, we let the negotiators take the discussions forward and give them a chance to look at what other possibilities as we conclude the CEPA.

    Minister for Trade: Well, if there are no other questions, thank you very much for coming along today, and we’ll head up to the Space Agency after a quick lunch with the Premier and the Governor. Thank you very much for attending.

    Piyush Goyal: Thank you friends.

    MIL OSI News –