Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Women and education are the two wheels of the chariot that will drive the nation towards ‘Viksit Bharat’

    Source: Government of India

    Women and education are the two wheels of the chariot that will drive the nation towards ‘Viksit Bharat’

    Education provides oxygen to democracy; great leveller of societal system, says VP

    Women Reservation in Lok Sabha and State Legislatures is epochal development-VP

    Globally India is the most happening place for investment and opportunity-VP

    Opportunity basket in the nation is increasing day by day-VP

    Education should be beyond degree, NEP is equipped to provide quality, purposeful education, underlines Shri Dhankhar

    Vice-President addresses students of India International School in Jaipur

    Posted On: 28 SEP 2024 5:27PM by PIB Delhi

    The Vice-President, Shri Jagdeep Dhankar today underlined the importance of women education, “We cannot dream of a Viksit Bharat without women and without education. Women and education are the two wheels of the chariot that will drive the nation”, he stated.

    Interacting with the students and faculty members at the India International School in Jaipur today, Shri Dhankhar highlighted the importance of education especially women education and said “Education is the biggest leveller in society and it brings equality and it is a necessity for democracy to flourish in any society. Education brings about equality, education cuts into inequities. Education is a great leveller of the societal system, education provides oxygen to democracy”, he added.

    “If we look into our Vedas, great emphasis was laid on education and participation of women. We lost our way somewhere in between. But during that period in Vedas, the Vedic era, the earliest one, women were on the same footing. They were policy makers, they were decision makers, they were guiding forces”, he further stressed.

    In his address he also praised the recently enacted Women Reservation Bill that mandates one third reservation is Parliament and State Legislatures.  “An epochal development has taken place, a historic development has taken place, and that is women reservation in Lok Sabha and State Legislatures, Constitution has now provided one-third reservation in Lok Sabha and State Legislatures…..They will be part of policy-making, they will be part of legislation making, they will be part of executive functions, they will be the driving force. This is the development of the century”, he added.

    Underlining India as the most happening place globally in terms of investment and opportunity, he stated, “the country has seen historic exponential development, economic upsurge unknown to us. The world class infrastructure, our opportunity basket is increasing day by day. But I can tell you one thing and global institutions, the IMF, the World Bank, the World Economic Forum and all have spoken that India globally is the most happening place. Look around any country, we are the best in terms of opportunity and investment”.

    Lauding National education Policy (NEP) for its ability to impart quality and purposeful education, the Vice-President underscored, “There can be no change without education. Education has to be quality education. Education has to be purposeful education. Education has to be beyond degree. Pursuit of degrees one after another is not the right approach to education and that is why after three decades the country came to have a national education policy that allows students full exploitation of their talent. They have been distanced from degree-oriented education. It has been focused on skill education, aptitude. Simultaneously you can pursue courses.” He further appealed to those who have still not adopted the NEP to adopt it.

    Stressing on the role of youth to achieve ‘Viksit Bharat’ in 2047, Shri Dhankhar said that elements needed to achieve a developed nation status are present in the country. “There is a mechanism in place where every individual can exploit his or her talent and potential to realise aspirations and dreams”, he added.

    Drawing attention to the equal application of law in the country, Vice-President said, “Equality before law, the provided by the Constitution had eluded us for long, some people thought they are more equal than others, some thought we are beyond the reach of the law, we are above the law but a big change that has taken place is equality before law is now a ground reality. Privilege, pedigree, that special class that carried an idea they have immunity from law are now being rendered accountable to law. That’s a big change!”

    Highlighting the sanitisation of power corridors from corrupt elements in the country, Shri Dhankhar said, “Any society driven by corruption, driven by greasing of the palm, driven by liaison agents, driven by a system that without corruption you cannot get a job or a contract is certainly against the rise of the youth. Corruption eats into the talented. Corruption neutralises meritocracy. A big change has taken place. Power corridors once infested with corrupt liaison elements. Those who extra-legally leveraged decision-making, who provided contracts and jobs without merit being a consideration. Those corridors have been neutralised. You would have seen now that there is transparent accountable governance in the country and this has been brought about by technological penetration right up to the villages where money is transferred without intermediary”.

    Read full text here : https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2059854

    ****

    JK/RC/SM

    (Release ID: 2059856) Visitor Counter : 69

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Dr. Sukanta Majumder inaugurates Safai Mitra Suraksha Shivir at The English and Foreign Languages University Hyderabad

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Dr. Sukanta Majumder inaugurates Safai Mitra Suraksha Shivir at The English and Foreign Languages University Hyderabad

    Dr. Sukanta Majumder chairs review meeting on implementation of NEP 2020 at EFLU

    Jan Bhagidhari is vital to make Swachhata initiatives successful – Dr. Sukanta Majumder

    Posted On: 28 SEP 2024 3:17PM by PIB Delhi

    Minister of State for Education and the Development of North Eastern Region Dr. Sukanta Majumdar inaugurated a Safai Mitra Suraksha Shivir at The English and Foreign Languages University (EFLU) Hyderabad, Telangana, today. He distributed Suraksha kits to the sanitation workers, as part of the Swachhata Hi Seva 2024 Campaign. He also distributed certificates to NSS Volunteers for their efforts in the SHS Campaign 2024. Vice Chancellor (In-charge), Prof. Haribandi Lakshmi, Dean, academicians, other dignitaries, faculty and students were present at the event. A report on the activities under the Campaign was presented during the event and a short film was also screened.

    Earlier, Dr. Majumdar chaired a review meeting on the implementation of NEP 2020 and inaugurated a new Reading Room at the university for students.

    While addressing the gathering, Dr. Majumdar expressed his happiness to note that the 60-year-old institute has served as the Nodal University for 11 States and a Union Territory in preparing the blueprint for the implementation of the National Education Policy 2020. He also acknowledged the role of the University in offering training programmes to foreign participants through the International Training Programmes under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) of the Ministry of External Affairs’ flagship initiative. He also highlighted that thousands of foreign participants from more than 120 countries have been trained so far at the University.

    Dr. Majumdar also appreciated the University’s efforts in spreading the message of Swabhav Swachhata-Sanskar Swachhata by conducting meaningful activities under the Swachhata Hi Seva 2024 campaign. He congratulated the students, faculty and staff of the University for participating in those events in large numbers with the spirit of Jan Bhagidhari. Reiterating the words of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, he urged everyone to make Swachhata a part of their lives.

    Participating in the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign, Dr. Majumdar planted a tree on the campus as well.

    *****

    SS/AK

    (Release ID: 2059827) Visitor Counter : 43

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Dr. Sukanta Majumdar inaugurates Safai Mitra Suraksha Shivir at The English and Foreign Languages University Hyderabad

    Source: Government of India

    Dr. Sukanta Majumdar inaugurates Safai Mitra Suraksha Shivir at The English and Foreign Languages University Hyderabad

    Dr. Sukanta Majumdar chairs review meeting on implementation of NEP 2020 at EFLU

    Jan Bhagidhari is vital to make Swachhata initiatives successful – Dr. Sukanta Majumdar

    Posted On: 28 SEP 2024 3:17PM by PIB Delhi

    Minister of State for Education and the Development of North Eastern Region Dr. Sukanta Majumdar inaugurated a Safai Mitra Suraksha Shivir at The English and Foreign Languages University (EFLU) Hyderabad, Telangana, today. He distributed Suraksha kits to the sanitation workers, as part of the Swachhata Hi Seva 2024 Campaign. He also distributed certificates to NSS Volunteers for their efforts in the SHS Campaign 2024. Vice Chancellor (In-charge), Prof. Haribandi Lakshmi, Dean, academicians, other dignitaries, faculty and students were present at the event. A report on the activities under the Campaign was presented during the event and a short film was also screened.

    Earlier, Dr. Majumdar chaired a review meeting on the implementation of NEP 2020 and inaugurated a new Reading Room at the university for students.

    While addressing the gathering, Dr. Majumdar expressed his happiness to note that the 60-year-old institute has served as the Nodal University for 11 States and a Union Territory in preparing the blueprint for the implementation of the National Education Policy 2020. He also acknowledged the role of the University in offering training programmes to foreign participants through the International Training Programmes under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) of the Ministry of External Affairs’ flagship initiative. He also highlighted that thousands of foreign participants from more than 120 countries have been trained so far at the University.

    Dr. Majumdar also appreciated the University’s efforts in spreading the message of Swabhav Swachhata-Sanskar Swachhata by conducting meaningful activities under the Swachhata Hi Seva 2024 campaign. He congratulated the students, faculty and staff of the University for participating in those events in large numbers with the spirit of Jan Bhagidhari. Reiterating the words of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, he urged everyone to make Swachhata a part of their lives.

    Participating in the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign, Dr. Majumdar planted a tree on the campus as well.

    *****

    SS/AK

    (Release ID: 2059827) Visitor Counter : 187

    Read this release in: Urdu

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI USA: HIEMA OCTOBER MONTHLY WARNING SIREN TEST

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    HIEMA OCTOBER MONTHLY WARNING SIREN TEST

    Posted on Sep 27, 2024 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

    DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

    KA ʻOIHANA PILI KAUA

     

    HAWAI‘I EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY

    KEʻENA HOʻOMALU PŌULIA O HAWAIʻI

     

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.

    GOVERNOR

    KE KIAʻĀINA

    MAJOR GENERAL KENNETH S. HARA

    DIRECTOR OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
    LUNA HOʻOMALU PŌULIA

    JAMES DS. BARROS

    ADMINISTRATOR OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
    KAHU HOʻOMALU PŌULIA

     

     

    MONTHLY SIREN AND EMERGENCY ALERT SYSTEM TEST FOR

    OCTOBER 2024

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    SEPTEMBER 27, 2024

     

    HONOLULU — The monthly test of the all-hazard Statewide Outdoor Warning Siren System is scheduled for Tuesday, October 1, 2024, at 11:45 a.m. The siren test will be coordinated with a test of the Live Audio Broadcast segment of the Emergency Alert System.

     

    During this monthly test, all Statewide Outdoor Warning Sirens will sound a one-minute Attention Alert Signal (steady tone). A test of the Live Audio Broadcast segment of the Emergency Alert System is conducted at roughly the same time as the monthly siren sounding, in cooperation with the Hawai‘i broadcast industry. There will be no exercise or drill accompanying the test.

     

    The all-hazard Outdoor Siren Warning System for Public Safety is one part of the Hawai‘i Statewide Alert and Warning System used to notify the public during emergencies. If you hear this siren tone in circumstances other than a test, follow emergency information and instructions provided by official government channels. These may be in the form of a local radio or television station broadcast, and/or a cellular Wireless Emergency Alert.

     

    Wireless Emergency Alerts deliver sound-and-text warnings to compatible mobile cellular phones. The Emergency Alert System and Wireless Emergency Alert notifications are sent via the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System, the nation’s alert and warning infrastructure, managed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

    Emergency management and disaster preparedness information may be found in the front section of telephone directories in most counties as well as online in the “Get Ready” section of ready.hawaii.gov. For the latest information from the Hawai‘i Emergency Management Agency (HI-EMA), or to sign up for county alerts, visit ready.hawaii.gov.

    The public may contact emergency management and county civil defense agencies to report siren operation issues through the following numbers.

    City and County of Honolulu: 808-723-8960
    Maui County: 808-270-7285
    Kauaʻi County: 808-241-1800
    Hawaiʻi County: 808-935-0031

     

     

    # # #

     

    Contact:

    1. Kīele Amundson

    Communications Director

    808-733-4300 Ext 522

    [email protected]

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Video: 🇮🇩 Indonesia – First Right of Reply, United Nations General Debate, 79th Session | #UNGA

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    First Right of Reply by the Republic of Indonesia at the General Debate of the 79th Session of the General Assembly of the United Nations (New York, 24 – 30 September 2024).

    The UN General Assembly (UNGA) is the main policy-making organ of the Organization. Comprising all Member States, it provides a unique forum for multilateral discussion of the full spectrum of international issues covered by the Charter of the United Nations. Each of the 193 Member States of the United Nations has an equal vote.

    Every year, world leaders gather to engage in the high-level General Debate. This year’s theme is “Unity and diversity for advancing peace, sustainable development, and human dignity, everywhere and for all.” Heads of State and Government and ministers will explore solutions to intertwined global challenges to advance peace, security, and sustainable development.

    General debate website: https://gadebate.un.org/

    —————————————-

    مشاهدة هذا الفيديو باللغة العربية على موقع البث الشبكي للأمم المتحدة
    请在联合国网络电视(UN Web TV)观看中文版视频
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    https://webtv.un.org/en/asset/k13/k13ufn1lwe

    Screenshot credit: UN Photo

    #UNGA #UnitedNations

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DYT6ce3qmKo

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI Video: 🇮🇳 India – First Right of Reply, United Nations General Debate, 79th Session | #UNGA

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    First Right of Reply by the Republic of India, at the General Debate of the 79th Session of the General Assembly of the United Nations (New York, 24 – 30 September 2024).

    The UN General Assembly (UNGA) is the main policy-making organ of the Organization. Comprising all Member States, it provides a unique forum for multilateral discussion of the full spectrum of international issues covered by the Charter of the United Nations. Each of the 193 Member States of the United Nations has an equal vote.

    Every year, world leaders gather to engage in the high-level General Debate. This year’s theme is “Unity and diversity for advancing peace, sustainable development, and human dignity, everywhere and for all.” Heads of State and Government and ministers will explore solutions to intertwined global challenges to advance peace, security, and sustainable development.

    General debate website: https://gadebate.un.org/

    —————————————-

    مشاهدة هذا الفيديو باللغة العربية على موقع البث الشبكي للأمم المتحدة
    请在联合国网络电视(UN Web TV)观看中文版视频
    Regardez cette vidéo en français sur UN Web TV
    Vean este video en español en UN Web TV
    Смотрите это видео на русском на UN Web TV
    https://webtv.un.org/en/asset/k1e/k1e1s5hro9

    Screenshot credit: UN Photo/photographer’s name

    #UNGA #UnitedNations

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ENyv4KgTGC4

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI Video: 🇸🇧 Solomon Islands – Foreign Minister Addresses United Nations General Debate, 79th Session | #UNGA

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Peter Shanel Agovaka, Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade of Solomon Islands, addresses the General Debate of the 79th Session of the General Assembly of the United Nations (New York, 24 – 30 September 2024).

    World leaders gather to engage in the annual high-level General Debate under the theme, “Unity and diversity for advancing peace, sustainable development, and human dignity, everywhere and for all.” Heads of State and Government and ministers will explore solutions to intertwined global challenges to advance peace, security, and sustainable development.

    The UN General Assembly (UNGA) is the main policy-making organ of the Organization. Comprising all Member States, it provides a unique forum for multilateral discussion of the full spectrum of international issues covered by the Charter of the United Nations. Each of the 193 Member States of the United Nations has an equal vote.

    General debate website: https://gadebate.un.org/

    —————————————-

    مشاهدة هذا الفيديو باللغة العربية على موقع البث الشبكي للأمم المتحدة
    请在联合国网络电视(UN Web TV)观看中文版视频
    Regardez cette vidéo en français sur UN Web TV
    Vean este video en español en UN Web TV
    Смотрите это видео на русском на UN Web TV
    https://webtv.un.org/en/asset/k1l/k1lg8rxiyo

    Screenshot credit: UN Photo/Loey Felipe

    #UNGA #UnitedNations

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WR2tRxfiSao

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI Video: 🇰🇷 Republic of Korea – Foreign Minister Addresses United Nations General Debate, 79th Session #UNGA

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Tae-yul Cho, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea, addresses the General Debate of the 79th Session of the General Assembly of the United Nations (New York, 24 – 30 September 2024).

    World leaders gather to engage in the annual high-level General Debate under the theme, “Unity and diversity for advancing peace, sustainable development, and human dignity, everywhere and for all.” Heads of State and Government and ministers will explore solutions to intertwined global challenges to advance peace, security, and sustainable development.

    The UN General Assembly (UNGA) is the main policy-making organ of the Organization. Comprising all Member States, it provides a unique forum for multilateral discussion of the full spectrum of international issues covered by the Charter of the United Nations. Each of the 193 Member States of the United Nations has an equal vote.

    General debate website: https://gadebate.un.org/

    —————————————-

    مشاهدة هذا الفيديو باللغة العربية على موقع البث الشبكي للأمم المتحدة
    请在联合国网络电视(UN Web TV)观看中文版视频
    Regardez cette vidéo en français sur UN Web TV
    Vean este video en español en UN Web TV
    Смотрите это видео на русском на UN Web TV
    https://webtv.un.org/en/asset/k18/k180cbja0l

    Screenshot credit: UN Photo/Loey Felipe

    #UNGA #UnitedNations

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YyJTziIJ47Y

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI Video: 🇯🇵 Japan – First Right of Reply, United Nations General Debate, 79th Session | #UNGA

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    First Right of Reply by Japan at the General Debate of the 79th Session of the General Assembly of the United Nations (New York, 24 – 30 September 2024).

    The UN General Assembly (UNGA) is the main policy-making organ of the Organization. Comprising all Member States, it provides a unique forum for multilateral discussion of the full spectrum of international issues covered by the Charter of the United Nations. Each of the 193 Member States of the United Nations has an equal vote.

    Every year, world leaders gather to engage in the high-level General Debate. This year’s theme is “Unity and diversity for advancing peace, sustainable development, and human dignity, everywhere and for all.” Heads of State and Government and ministers will explore solutions to intertwined global challenges to advance peace, security, and sustainable development.

    General debate website: https://gadebate.un.org/

    —————————————-

    مشاهدة هذا الفيديو باللغة العربية على موقع البث الشبكي للأمم المتحدة
    请在联合国网络电视(UN Web TV)观看中文版视频
    Regardez cette vidéo en français sur UN Web TV
    Vean este video en español en UN Web TV
    Смотрите это видео на русском на UN Web TV
    https://webtv.un.org/en/asset/k14/k1490424ls

    Screenshot credit: UN Photo

    #UNGA #UnitedNations

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k-QC-4QMr9I

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI Video: 🇦🇺 Australia – Foreign Minister Addresses United Nations General Debate, 79th Session | #UNGA

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Penny Wong, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Australia, addresses the General Debate of the 79th Session of the General Assembly of the United Nations (New York, 24 – 30 September 2024).

    World leaders gather to engage in the annual high-level General Debate under the theme, “Unity and diversity for advancing peace, sustainable development, and human dignity, everywhere and for all.” Heads of State and Government and ministers will explore solutions to intertwined global challenges to advance peace, security, and sustainable development.

    The UN General Assembly (UNGA) is the main policy-making organ of the Organization. Comprising all Member States, it provides a unique forum for multilateral discussion of the full spectrum of international issues covered by the Charter of the United Nations. Each of the 193 Member States of the United Nations has an equal vote.

    General debate website: https://gadebate.un.org/

    —————————————-

    مشاهدة هذا الفيديو باللغة العربية على موقع البث الشبكي للأمم المتحدة
    请在联合国网络电视(UN Web TV)观看中文版视频
    Regardez cette vidéo en français sur UN Web TV
    Vean este video en español en UN Web TV
    Смотрите это видео на русском на UN Web TV
    https://webtv.un.org/en/asset/k18/k18v6j4w39

    Screenshot credit: UN Photo/Loey Felipe

    #UNGA #UnitedNations

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l6RPhYydms4

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Conservation and Fisheries – Cut to Orange Roughy catch will see no recovery within five years – DSCC

    Source: Greenpeace

    Deep Sea Conservation Coalition (DSCC) Statement
    Environmentalists say today’s decision to reduce an orange roughy catch limit is simply the ‘bare minimum’ for the troubled fishery and are calling on the government to ban bottom trawling on seamounts so that populations of the deep sea fish can rebuild.
    Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones has decided to cut the total catch limit for a declining orange roughy stock in the Tasman Sea by 1,221 tonnes (57%). But the Deep Sea Conservation Coalition (DSCC) points out the modelling used to inform the Minister’s decision shows the stock is already below the level we’ve agreed to internationally (1) and none of the options put to the Minister by his officials would see any recovery in the next five years. (2)
    The decision was gazetted on Friday and an announcement is expected today, ahead of the October 1 start of the fishing year.DSCC spokesperson Karli Thomas says the cut is only just enough to stop the decline of a fishery that’s already in a dire state and does nothing to protect the seamounts that orange roughy – and other deep sea creatures like corals and sponges – rely on.
    “The orange roughy fishery is one of the worst in Aotearoa, responsible for more than half the destruction of protected deep-sea corals. The government’s decision today leaves the fish itself – which can live for over 200 years – in serious trouble,” says Thomas.
    “The Minister has chosen to do the bare minimum, just enough to stop the decline, not enough to allow the stock to recover, and nothing at all to address the huge damage caused by bottom trawling on seamounts.”
    The stock assessment is based on survey data more than a decade old (2013) despite more recent stock surveys being carried out in 2018 and 2023. If the recent data is included, the stock could already be as low as 16% of its original population size.
    Greenpeace oceans campaigner Juan Parada says: “If the New Zealand fishing industry had stopped bottom trawling seamounts decades ago, the orange roughy fishery would not be in the diminished state it is today. Trawling the very seamounts where orange roughy go to breed and rebuild their numbers is a reckless way to run a fishery.”
    “New Zealand is the only country still bottom trawling in the South Pacific high seas, and that’s embarrassing. New Zealand should be moving away from this kind of archaic practice that does so much damage to ocean life,” says Parada.
    This fishery is under shared management with the South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organisation (SPRFMO), which has a management target of keeping this orange roughy population at or above 40% of its original level over the next five years. It’s already below that level, and Minister Jones is allowing catches that will prevent any recovery in that timeframe.
    “The Minister is out of touch with New Zealanders on this one, close to 100,000 people have signed a joint petition calling for trawling on seamounts to end” said Parada from Greenpeace Aotearoa.
    “It’s time the government listened and protected biodiversity hot spots like seamounts so the ocean, and orange roughy can recover.”
    SPRFMO starts its annual scientific committee meeting today in Lima, Peru. New Zealand’s orange roughy stock assessment is on the agenda, and the committee will advise on how much, if any, orange roughy can be taken from the part of this population in international waters. That will ultimately be decided at the SPRFMO annual meeting in February 2025. New Zealand is the only country still bottom trawling in the SPRFMO area.
    “Eyes at this international meeting are going to be on New Zealand, which is not only trying to walk back on science – discussed and agreed last year – that would have seen additional areas closed to bottom trawling to protect deep-sea life, it’s also going to have to explain a fishery in decline and a catch limit too high for it to recover,” concluded Thomas, from the DSCC.
    Notes(1) Under the South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organisation (SPRFMO) Conservation and Management Measure CMM 03a-2023, which specifies that this Tasman Sea stock will be managed at or above 40% of its original biomass for the next five years.
    (2) Table 1 of the MPI discussion document on ORH 7A set out the modelled population level under the four options under consideration. Only one option was predicted to halt the decline in the stock, none of the options were predicted to allow any stock recovery in the next five years.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI Video: 🇹🇱 Timor-Leste – Prime Minister Addresses United Nations General Debate, 79th Session | #UNGA

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, addresses the General Debate of the 79th Session of the General Assembly of the United Nations (New York, 24 – 30 September 2024).

    World leaders gather to engage in the annual high-level General Debate under the theme, “Unity and diversity for advancing peace, sustainable development, and human dignity, everywhere and for all.” Heads of State and Government and ministers will explore solutions to intertwined global challenges to advance peace, security, and sustainable development.

    The UN General Assembly (UNGA) is the main policy-making organ of the Organization. Comprising all Member States, it provides a unique forum for multilateral discussion of the full spectrum of international issues covered by the Charter of the United Nations. Each of the 193 Member States of the United Nations has an equal vote.

    General debate website: https://gadebate.un.org/

    —————————————-

    مشاهدة هذا الفيديو باللغة العربية على موقع البث الشبكي للأمم المتحدة
    请在联合国网络电视(UN Web TV)观看中文版视频
    Regardez cette vidéo en français sur UN Web TV
    Vean este video en español en UN Web TV
    Смотрите это видео на русском на UN Web TV
    https://webtv.un.org/en/asset/k1b/k1b5f6fxyo

    Screenshot credit: UN Photo/Loey Felipe

    #UNGA #UnitedNations

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iTyVIkEOBe0

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI Video: 🇹🇴 Tonga – President Addresses United Nations General Debate, 79th Session | #UNGA

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Siaosi ‘Ofakivahafolau Sovaleni, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Tonga, addresses the General Debate of the 79th Session of the General Assembly of the United Nations (New York, 24 – 30 September 2024).

    World leaders gather to engage in the annual high-level General Debate under the theme, “Unity and diversity for advancing peace, sustainable development, and human dignity, everywhere and for all.” Heads of State and Government and ministers will explore solutions to intertwined global challenges to advance peace, security, and sustainable development.

    The UN General Assembly (UNGA) is the main policy-making organ of the Organization. Comprising all Member States, it provides a unique forum for multilateral discussion of the full spectrum of international issues covered by the Charter of the United Nations. Each of the 193 Member States of the United Nations has an equal vote.

    General debate website: https://gadebate.un.org/

    —————————————-

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    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DSoDPwVqbh0

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Ambassadors for International Day of People with Disability 2024

    Source: Ministers for Social Services

    Ambassadors for the 2024 International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD) have officially been confirmed.

    A total of eight Australians with a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences with disability have been chosen to champion IDPWD and disability inclusion in Australia.

    IDPwD is a United Nations observed day held annually on 3 December, aimed at raising understanding and acceptance of people with disability.

    More than one in five Australians – or 5.5 million people – identify as having a disability.

    Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth said this year’s Ambassadors were a genuine reflection of the diversity of people with disability in Australia.

    “Our Ambassadors provide different perspectives of what it means to be a person with disability, and this is why the Ambassador program is so important,” Minister Rishworth said.

    “This year’s Ambassadors particularly highlight how disability can intersect with other factors such as age, gender identity, sexual orientation and cultural background.

    “Intersectionality can compound discrimination experienced by people with disability, which is why there is no one-size fits all approach to disability matters.”

    Building on the example set by previous year’s Ambassadors, the 2024 IDPwD Ambassadors will work to elevate the voices and experiences of people with disability to play a part in shifting attitudes about disability.

    “We hope to dismantle stereotypes and challenge misconceptions by providing a platform for people with disability to stand up as influential voices for the disability community,” Minister Rishworth said.

    “We also know that for young people, particularly young people with disability, that honest, accurate representation is crucial in helping to establish their own unique sense of identity.”

    The Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme and Government Services, Bill Shorten, said this year’s ambassadors reflect the rich and diverse disability communities within Australia.

    “The passions and purpose which drive our incredible IDPwD representatives show the important contributions people with disability make to our country.

    “We must continue to support people with disability in positions of leadership and representation, to ensure all voices and lived experience are heard. We have worked hard to do this with reforming the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) so that it is sustainable and thriving for future generations.”

    The Albanese Labor Government is committed progressing change under Australia’s Disability Strategy 2021-2031, which is a commitment by all levels of government to drive inclusion of people with disability across all aspects of society.

    This is being demonstrated across multiple portfolios, from introducing the Disability Services and Inclusion Act at the beginning of this year and boosting funding for individual and systemic disability advocacy to uphold the rights of people with disability, to investing in our Paralympians, improving accessibility and inclusion at live music events, and creating new aviation specific disability standards.

    The IDPwD 2024 Ambassadors are:

    • Uncle Paul Constable-Calcott, an artist and disability advocate who uses his art to share his journey as a gay First Nations man living with disability in urban Australia. Uncle Paul works closely within the community, such as coordinating exhibitions and leading initiatives like the NunnaRon Art Group for artists with disability.
    • Marcus Dadd, a farmer from Mudgee, NSW, Australian National University Environmental Science and Agriculture graduate with honours (focusing on sustainable beef production) and disability advocate. He is currently working on a large cattle station in the Northern Territory. Marcus is passionate about inclusivity, sustainability and incorporating climate-positive practices into agriculture.
    • Khadija Gbla, a renowned award-winning intuitive speaker, human rights activist and compassionate thought leader. Born in Sierra Leone, Khadija came to Australia as a refugee at the age of 13. Khadija is determined to build a more inclusive, culturally aware, safe and accepting society no matter our differences through heart-centredness.
    • Hayden  Moon, a dancer, writer, and passionate advocate for LGBTQIA+, First Nations and disability issues. Hayden has written extensively on his experiences through various publications, including a chapter in “Nothing to Hide – Voices of Trans and Gender Diverse Australia.”
    • Sara Shams, a disability advocate, model, speaker, and healthcare professional. She is passionate about establishing equal opportunities, creating inclusive environments, and increasing the representation of people with disabilities, particularly from diverse cultural backgrounds. Sara advocates for an intersectional approach to inclusion, recognising the unique challenges faced by individuals at the intersection of race, disability, and other marginalised identities. As a modelling inclusion ambassador, she works with the fashion and media industries to amplify diversity and ensure authentic representation of all disabled communities.
    • Cooper Smith, is a DJ and music producer with cerebral palsy who communicates through his music. Cooper works to champion diversity and inclusion in the music industry and has performed at a wide range of live events, including the 2023 Ability Fest and 2024 Australian Open. Cooper visits primary schools and high schools to talk with students about disability and inclusion across all areas of life. He loves music, fitness and dreams of modelling more.
    • Sean Skeels and Marley Whatarau, best friends who have bonded through dancing and making cooking videos together. They have gained popularity on Instagram and TikTok through their “Get Down with Sean and Marley’ videos. Last year they received the TikTok Good Award, which recognises creators who strive to create positive change in their communities.

    Minister Rishworth congratulates this year’s Ambassadors and is looking forward to recognising the IDPWD with them on 3 December.

    For further information about IDPwD, and how to get involved please visit www.idpwd.com.au.

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI China: Diverse international products attract visitors at 21st China-ASEAN Expo in Nanning

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Diverse international products attract visitors at 21st China-ASEAN Expo in Nanning

    Updated: September 29, 2024 07:30 Xinhua
    A visitor buys products from Yemen during the 21st China-ASEAN Expo at Nanning International Convention and Exhibition Center in Nanning, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Sept. 28, 2024. Products from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries, such as durians, cookies and rosewood, as well as those from other countries including Russian sausages and Peruvian alpaca-fur stuffed toys have enjoyed popularity at the 21st China-ASEAN Expo in Nanning. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A staff member (1st L) introduces products from Nepal during the 21st China-ASEAN Expo at Nanning International Convention and Exhibition Center in Nanning, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Sept. 28, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Visitors buy cookies from Vietnam during the 21st China-ASEAN Expo in Nanning, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Sept. 28, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Visitors buy products from Thailand during the 21st China-ASEAN Expo at Nanning International Convention and Exhibition Center in Nanning, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Sept. 28, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Visitors buy products at the Belt and Road International Pavilion during the 21st China-ASEAN Expo at Nanning International Convention and Exhibition Center in Nanning, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Sept. 28, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Peruvian alpaca-fur stuffed toys are on display during the 21st China-ASEAN Expo in Nanning, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Sept. 28, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Visitors buy Malaysian durians during the 21st China-ASEAN Expo in Nanning, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Sept. 28, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Visitors buy products at Vietnam Pavilion during the 21st China-ASEAN Expo in Nanning, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Sept. 28, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A girl tries Australian chocolate products at the Belt and Road International Pavilion during the 21st China-ASEAN Expo in Nanning, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Sept. 28, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: China-ASEAN Expo attracts record number of exhibitors

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    NANNING, Sept. 28 — The 21st China-ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO), which has drawn a record number of 3,300 exhibitors, concluded Saturday in Nanning, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.

    The expo featured 3,300 exhibitors, with 2,004 participating in the main exhibition area in Nanning. Among them were 740 enterprises from ASEAN countries, according to Wei Zhaohui, secretary-general of the CAEXPO Secretariat.

    A new section was introduced this year to highlight strategic emerging industries, showcasing the latest developments and technologies in fields such as digital technology, new energy and intelligent connected vehicles.

    This year’s expo saw the signing of 109 projects, with 69 percent of them focused on manufacturing. These projects involved key sectors such as new chemical materials, new energy and energy storage, non-ferrous metals and machinery and equipment, as well as emerging industries including low-carbon polymer materials and high-end semiconductor chemical materials.

    Since its inception in 2004, CAEXPO has actively built a platform for ASEAN enterprises to enter the Chinese market. The 22nd CAEXPO is tentatively scheduled for Sept. 17 to 21, 2025, with Myanmar as the country of honor.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Readout of the Secretary-General’s meeting with H.E. Mr. Maris Sangiampongsa, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    The Secretary-General met with H.E. Mr. Maris Sangiampongsa, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand. The Secretary-General welcomed the close cooperation between Thailand and the United Nations. The Secretary-General and the Foreign Minister discussed the implementation of the Pact for the Future and regional issues, including the situation in Myanmar.

    MIL OSI United Nations News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Unlocking the future of the Molonglo Valley

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    The Albanese Labor Government continues to activate the future of the Molonglo Valley – with the National Capital Plan amended to reclassify this district as Canberra’s sixth town centre.

    The amendment paves the way for future development in this region, from commercial to community facilities – ensuring that as the Molonglo community grows, infrastructure and services keep pace.

    As part of this, the Albanese and ACT Labor Governments have committed to working together to deliver a new community centre in Molonglo, along with upgrades to local streets, parks and green space.

    This commitment builds on work already underway and jointly funded by the Albanese and ACT Labor Governments.

    This includes the $225 million construction of the Molonglo River Bridge and upgrades to John Gorton Drive, which will significantly enhance access to the growing Molonglo region.

    The reclassification of Molonglo under the National Capital Plan follows stakeholder and public consultation in May and June – and recognises that the projected population of Molonglo will increase demand on local services and amenities.

    Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Territories, Kristy McBain MP:

    “More people are calling the Molonglo home, with the population expected to reach around 70,000 by 2050.

    “That’s why we’ve made this amendment – paving the way for the development of infrastructure and services this growing community will need in their own backyard.

    “The Albanese Government is committed to working with the ACT Labor Government to boost the liveability of the Molonglo, investing in projects that will support local jobs and stimulate the local economy.”

    Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Bean, David Smith MP:

    “The Molonglo is a great place to live and work – which is why the Albanese Government is unlocking its potential and committing to its future.

    “This is one of the fastest-growing parts of the ACT, which is why we’ll continue to work with the ACT Labor Government to deliver infrastructure and services for this flourishing area.”

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Nepal

    Source: Australia Safe Travel Advisories

    There is widespread flooding and landslides across Nepal. Heavy rain may further impact local infrastructure and disruptions to transport and other essential services could occur. If you’re in the affected areas, check the media for updates and follow the instructions of local authorities (see ‘Safety’).

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Snapper catch limits up, orange roughy down

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Catch limits for several fisheries will be increased following a review that shows stocks of those species are healthy and abundant.

    The changes are being made as part of Fisheries New Zealand’s biannual sustainability review, which considers catch limits and management settings across New Zealand’s fisheries.

    “Scientific evidence and information about our snapper stocks tells us these fisheries are thriving and abundant,” Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says.

    “More of the fish can be sustainably harvested, which is why recreational allowances and commercial catch limits for some snapper stocks will be increased.

    “Making the most of these abundant fisheries benefits those who make a living from our fisheries, and the economy,” Mr Jones says.

    Other changes include increases in the recreational and commercial take in the Kaikōura pāua fishery, but also an increase in the minimum size.

    “The pāua in this fishery continues to become healthier, following its devastation in the Kaikōura earthquakes.

    “To make sure this fishery continues to do well by protecting more spawning pāua, I have increased the minimum size for pāua there from 125mm to 130mm.”

    While some fisheries are doing well, others require reduced catch limits. 

    “A recent assessment of the Challenger Plateau orange roughy stock (ORH 7A) has suggested current harvest is no longer sustainable so the commercial catch limit has been cut.

    “Commercial catch limits and allowances for the Southland blue cod stock (BCO 5) have also been reduced. Blue cod is a popular fish for New Zealanders, and these reductions will help ensure this fishery is sustainable and can be enjoyed in future,” Mr Jones says.

    Decisions are based on the best available scientific information about the stocks, as well as input from iwi and public feedback.

    “I’d like to acknowledge everyone who provided feedback on the proposals. Submissions from tangata whenua, recreational and commercial fishers, environmental groups, and the public play an important part in the advice I receive and the decisions made,” Mr Jones says.

    More information can be found on Fisheries New Zealand’s website at: https://www.mpi.govt.nz/consultations/review-of-sustainability-measures-for-fisheries-october-2024-round/  

    Summary of the stocks with catch limit increases:

    • Snapper (SNA 2, 7 & 8) – west coast North and South Island, top of the South Island, and East Cape to south coast of Wellington
    • Pāua (PAU 3A) – Kaikōura
    • Kina (SUR 3) – east coast South Island
    • Kingfish (KIN 3) – east coast South Island, Southland, and Sub-Antarctic
    • Leatherjacket (LEA 3) – east coast South Island, Southland, and Sub-Antarctic
    • Rig (SPO 2) – East Cape to south coast of Wellington
    • Elephantfish (ELE 7) – West Coast and top of the South Island
    • Jack mackerel (JMA 7) – west coasts North and South Islands
    • Kingfish (KIN 7 & 8) – west coasts North and South Islands
    • Pilchard (PIL 8) – west coast North Island

    Summary of the stocks with catch limit decreases:

    • Orange roughy (ORH 7A) – Challenger Plateau
    • Blue cod (BCO 5) – Southland
    • John dory (JDO 2) – East Cape to Taranaki
    • Flatfish (FLA 7) – West Coast and top of the South Island
    • Pilchard (PIL 7) – West Coast and top of the South Island

    Stocks with adjustments to deemed value rates:

    • Silver warehou (SWA 3 & 4) – east coast South Island, Chatham Islands, Southland, and Sub-Antarctic
    • Snapper (SNA 8) – west coast North Island

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI China: China ready to deepen win-win cooperation with Peru

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Peruvian Foreign Minister Elmer Schialer Salcedo on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York, Sept. 27, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said in New York on Friday China is ready to work with Peru to implement the consensus reached by the two heads of state, and deepen mutually beneficial cooperation in various fields.

    Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks during talks with Peruvian Foreign Minister Elmer Schialer Salcedo on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York.

    China-Peru relations have long been at the forefront of China-Latin America relations, he said, adding that China values its relations with Peru.

    Wang also said that the Chinese side firmly supports Peru as the host of the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in November.

    He called on both sides to strengthen coordination and cooperation in international and regional affairs and take China-Peru relations to a new level in the new era.

    For his part, Schialer said Peruvian companies are optimistic about the Chinese market, and look forward to strengthening cooperation with China.

    He added that his country welcomes more investment by Chinese businesses in Peru.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: World Insights: Challenges abound as Ishiba poised to lead Japan

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    TOKYO, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) — Elected as the new leader of Japan’s ruling party after a heated race, veteran politician Shigeru Ishiba is set to face daunting challenges ranging from restoring public trust to addressing economic stagnation as he prepares to assume the role of Japan’s prime minister.

    The 67-year-old former defense minister narrowly defeated female hopeful Economic Security Minister Sanae Takaichi in a run-off on Friday as a record nine candidates competed to lead the country’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP).

    Ishiba is expected to be officially elected Japan’s prime minister on Oct. 1, succeeding outgoing Fumio Kishida to lead a country facing a complex array of pressing issues.

    First and foremost on Ishiba’s task list is to restore public trust in the LDP, whose image has been heavily tarnished by the political funds scandal involving unreported income and misuse of political funds, which led to the indictment of several lawmakers.

    At a press conference following his win, Ishiba has vowed to give his “full effort” to rebuild trust and unity within the LDP, calling for a party that is humble, fair, and transparent, where rules are followed, and the public can hold leaders accountable.

    While the current term of lower house members is to expire in October 2025, Ishiba will also need to decide when to dissolve the lower house, as in Japan, a new prime minister often calls a snap election to dissolve the lower house at an early date to capitalize on a high approval rating to seek a public mandate.

    While indicating that a general election is necessary, Ishiba emphasized the importance of debating key issues with opposition parties before making any decision.

    On the economic front, Ishiba’s economic agenda promises continuity with those of Kishida but aims to make these policies more effective.

    In recent years, sluggish economic growth, wage stagnation, rising prices and the yen’s sharp depreciation have created woes for the Japanese public, and how Ishiba will differentiate his policies to tackle these economic challenges will be a key focus to watch.

    Stressing measures to accelerate real wage growth and boost consumer spending, Ishiba on Friday also highlighted Japan’s population decline as a major concern, reiterating his focus on regional revitalization.

    On foreign policy and national security, Ishiba, considered a defense policy expert, has put forward conservative proposals, including the establishment of an “Asian version of the NATO military alliance” and revisions to war-renouncing Article 9 of the pacifist Constitution. He has declined to say whether he would visit the controversial Yasukuni Shrine as prime minister.

    Regarding Japan-U.S. relations, Ishiba envisions a more equal and mutual Japan-U.S. security alliance, including having Japanese Self-Defense Force bases in the United States, a rare proposal within the conservative LDP.

    In a report on Friday, Japan’s Kyodo News said Ishiba may face a make-or-break moment as the country’s prime minister, citing Yu Uchiyama, a political science professor at the University of Tokyo, as saying, adding the longevity of the new administration hinges on how drastic the next leader’s reforms will be. Enditem

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: Macao’s leader candidate stresses ‘one country, two systems’ in political platform

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Sam Hou Fai, the only candidate running for the sixth-term chief executive of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR), on Saturday emphasized the need to comprehensively implement the “one country, two systems” as a basic guideline for governing the SAR.
    Sam made the remarks during a 3-hour presentation and question-and-answer session for his political platform with the Chief Executive Election Committee and the press.
    In his presentation, Sam noted that Macao’s successful practices over the past 25 years since its return demonstrate the strong vitality and significant advantages of the “one country, two systems” principle. Facing a new start, he proposed the election philosophy “to forge ahead together by upholding fundamental principles and breaking new ground,” aiming to meet residents’ aspirations for a better life as the primary pursuit.
    He urged upholding national sovereignty, security and developmental interests as the highest principles and promoting moderately diversified economic development to better integrate into and serve the overall national development.
    Sam outlined key governance focuses for the next five years. He stated the need to enhance public governance capabilities and levels, center on residents, promote good governance, strengthen scientific decision-making, optimize the interaction between administration and legislation, safeguard judicial independence, improve civil service management systems, and foster ethnic harmony.
    He also called for accelerating moderately diversified economic development, which includes implementing a comprehensive plan for economic diversification, establishing a high-level economic governance system, creating a globally competitive business environment, promoting the healthy development of the gaming industry in accordance with the law, studying the establishment of government-industry funds, and accelerating the development of a diversified evaluation and statistical system.
    In terms of better integrating into and serving the national development, Sam proposed taking a leading role in promoting the integration of tax systems between Macao and the Chinese mainland, and supporting the construction of the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin, participating in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area construction, deepening cooperation with Portuguese-speaking countries, and engaging in the Belt and Road construction to enhance entry and transit convenience for friendly countries and regions.
    He also highlighted the need to improve education, science and technology talent systems and emphasized the importance of improving people’s livelihoods.
    After presenting his political platform, Sam addressed questions from election committee members regarding public governance capabilities and governance levels, the healthy and orderly development of the gaming industry in accordance with the law, small and medium-sized enterprises, social service policies, and legal reforms. 

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Bahrain

    Source: Australia Safe Travel Advisories

    The ongoing conflict in Lebanon and the Occupied Palestinian Territories could lead to increased tensions in other locations in the Middle East. There is an increased threat of attacks against Israeli interests across the region. Demonstrations and protest activity may also occur, and localised security situations could deteriorate with little notice. Avoid all demonstrations and protests. The ongoing conflict may also result in airspace closures, flight cancellations, flight diversions and other travel disruptions across the region (see ‘Safety’).

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI USA: President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves North Carolina Disaster  Declaration

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    Today, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. declared that a major disaster exists in the State of North Carolina and ordered Federal aid to supplement State, tribal, and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by Tropical Storm Helene beginning on September 25, 2024, and continuing.
    The President’s action makes Federal funding available to affected individuals in Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Clay, Cleveland, Gaston, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Transylvania, Watauga, Wilkes, and Yancey Counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.
    Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.
    Federal funding also is available to State, tribal, and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work in Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Clay, Cleveland, Gaston, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Transylvania, Watauga, Wilkes, and Yancey Counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.
    Finally, Federal funding is available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.
    Mr. E. Craig Levy, Sr. of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has been appointed to coordinate Federal recovery operations in the affected areas. 
    Damage assessments are continuing in other areas, and more counties and additional forms of assistance may be designated after the assessments are fully completed.
    Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362), or by using the FEMA App. Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service. 
    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION MEDIA SHOULD CONTACT THE FEMA NEWS DESK AT (202) 646-3272 OR FEMA-NEWS-DESK@FEMA.DHS.GOV.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s top political advisor calls for broadest patriotic united front at National Day reception

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Wang Huning, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), delivers a speech at a reception to celebrate the upcoming 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 28, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    China’s top political advisor Wang Huning on Saturday called for consolidating and developing the broadest possible patriotic united front to rally the people’s support, foster consensus, and pool their strength to advance Chinese modernization.
    Wang, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, made the remarks at a reception held in Beijing to celebrate the upcoming 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.
    “To accomplish Chinese modernization, it is essential for all Chinese people to unite and collaborate collectively,” he said.
    On Hong Kong and Macao, Wang stressed the determination to continue to fully, faithfully, and resolutely implement the policy of One Country, Two Systems, see that Hong Kong and Macao are administered by patriots, inspire more people in Hong Kong and Macao to love both the country and their own regions, and support Hong Kong and Macao in better integrating themselves into the country’s overall development.
    On Taiwan, Wang stressed adherence to the one-China principle and the 1992 Consensus, expressing the willingness to promote peaceful development of cross-Strait relations and advance integrated development in all fields.
    He called for efforts to resolutely oppose “Taiwan independence” separatist activities and foreign interference and unswervingly advance the cause of national reunification.
    About 2,000 representatives from Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan and overseas Chinese communities attended the reception. 

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: Mideast countries, anti-Israel factions condemn brutal assaults in Lebanon

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    This photo taken on Sept. 28, 2024 shows displaced people from the southern suburbs of Beirut due to Israeli airstrikes in Tripoli, Lebanon. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Countries and anti-Israel factions in the Middle East on Saturday strongly condemned a previous Israeli attack that killed Hezbollah Leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah in the southern suburbs of Beirut, Lebanon.

    On Friday evening, Israeli warplanes launched airstrikes on Hezbollah’s main headquarters in Dahieh, which Israeli military said killed Nasrallah along with some other group commanders. Hezbollah on Saturday confirmed Nasrallah’s death.

    In a statement, the group mourned Nasrallah, describing him as “a great martyr” and “a heroic, bold, brave, wise, insightful, and faithful leader” for nearly 30 years, who lately led in “the battle for Palestine, Gaza, and the oppressed Palestinian people.”

    According to Lebanon’s MTV TV channel, Friday’s raids on Beirut killed at least six people, injured 91 others, flattened several residential buildings, and caused huge damage to infrastructure in the neighborhood.

    Shortly after Hezbollah confirmed Nasrallah’s death, Hamas issued a statement condemning the Israeli airstrikes on Dahieh as “a cowardly terrorist act, a massacre, and a heinous crime” that proved once again Israel’s “bloodiness and brutality.”

    Hamas held Israel fully responsible for “this heinous crime and its serious repercussions on the security and stability of the region,” and condemned the U.S. administration’s “continued support” for Israel.

    Meanwhile, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan condemned on social media platform X Israel’s “brutal” and “inhumane” attacks that killed many Lebanese, including children, and called on the international community to “act swiftly” to ensure global peace, stability and security.

    While also slamming Israel’s “utter disregard for innocent human life,” Iranian Vice President for Strategic Affairs Mohammad Javad Zarif vowed on X that “The Resistance will continue as long as the cause — aggression and occupation — persists.”

    In the meantime, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei declared five days of national mourning over the “martyrdom” of Nasrallah.

    Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi also mourned the death of Nasrallah.

    In a phone call with his Lebanese counterpart Abdallah Bou Habib, Araghchi described Nasrallah’s death as a great loss for Lebanon, West Asia, and the Muslim world.

    Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani called Nasrallah’s killing “a new sinful attack and a crime that confirms Israel’s crossing of all red lines,” saying it expresses Israel’s “reckless desire to expand the conflict at the expense of all the peoples of the region.” The prime minister announced Saturday a three-day national mourning in honor of the “martyrdom” of Nasrallah.

    Also on Saturday, the Tunisian Foreign Ministry condemned the “brutal aggression” against Lebanon, and called on the UN Security Council to adopt a “decisive and firm position to stop the bombings against the Lebanese people and put an end to the violation of their sovereignty and the threat to their security.”

    Meanwhile, Yemen’s Houthi group described Nasrallah’s passing as a “huge loss” and “a curse that haunts Israel until it is uprooted.” The group declared three days of mourning and ordered flags to be flown at half-mast.

    In a statement by the Syrian Foreign Ministry, the Syrian government strongly condemned the “criminal Israeli aggression,” which it described as another example of Israel’s “treachery, cowardice, and terrorism.” The ministry accused Israel of disregarding international law and held it fully responsible for the consequences of the attack.

    In a post on X, Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi expressed his country’s “solidarity with Lebanon and its people,” reaffirming “support for Lebanon’s sovereignty, security, stability, cohesion, and peace.”

    In a phone call with Mikati, Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi vowed to stand by Lebanon, especially during these critical circumstances. Sisi also stressed “the need for an immediate, comprehensive, and permanent ceasefire in both Lebanon and Gaza.”

    Israel has intensified its airstrikes across Lebanon since Monday, marking the most extensive Israeli military action in the country since 2006.

    Israel’s latest escalation further fuels its ongoing clashes with Hezbollah that began on Oct. 8, 2023, when Hezbollah started launching rockets at Israel in solidarity with Hamas, prompting Israel’s retaliatory artillery fire and airstrikes in southeastern Lebanon.

    According to the Lebanese Health Ministry on Saturday, 1,640 people in Lebanon, including 104 children and 194 women, have been killed and 8,408 more injured in Israeli attacks on Lebanon since Oct. 8 last year.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: Shanghai showcases works of over 15 global graffiti artists

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Shanghai A.F.A collaborates with the globally renowned Museum of Graffiti from the United States to present its first Chinese exhibition at ROJO Art Space: “Street Echoes – Global Graffiti Art Exhibition.” The exhibition will run from October 1 to December.

    After nearly a year of preparation, the exhibition features over 15 graffiti artists from around the world, including Museum of Graffiti Founder Alan Ket and the legendary figure John Andrew Perello, also known as Jon One. These artists come from various countries, including the United States, Switzerland, France, South Korea, and China.

    Joy Chang, the exhibition director, said that graffiti art, like any other art form, has now become one of the mainstream art forms and has undergone significant changes over the years.

    “From the late 20th century to the present, graffiti art has transitioned from underground to mainstream. In the past, graffiti artists used public spaces to express their ideas and will through words and images. Now, graffiti is gradually influencing young trends, spreading this art form to younger demographics through collaborations across fashion brands, music, and sports,” Chang explained.

    “We aim to enhance people’s understanding of graffiti art through the exhibition and offer Chinese consumers and the public the opportunity to acquaint themselves with top graffiti artists from around the world and their esteemed works,” she added.

    She said that at the exhibition venue visitors can witness the scenes such as New York subway cars, skate parks, rooftop billboards, public restrooms, and phone booths — locales where graffiti artists originally brought their creations to life in urban settings.

    In addition to showcasing hundreds of influential graffiti artworks from around the globe to the audience, the exhibition also features live painting.

    During the live painting session, Jon One expressed, “I really appreciate the creative approach of Chinese artists. I have incorporated elements from the East and Asia into my artworks, adding a fresh perspective to graffiti while maintaining the tradition of street art. I believe this is what makes it unique.”

    Alan Ket, who founded the world’s first graffiti art museum in 2018, remarked, “Bringing the Museum of Graffiti to China is a very big deal for the museum because our mission is to present, to exhibit, to preserve, and to educate about this art form. And coming here gives us an opportunity to share all the history all the things that we’ve learned, all about the people and the development over 50 years.”

    Dedicated to promoting graffiti, Ket said, “It is my hope that many people come here to see this exhibition to learn what we believe is a very important art form.”

    As a veteran in the graffiti scene, Ket encourages aspiring artists who are just beginning to explore graffiti to courageously pick up their brushes and delve into the history.

    “There is a long history before today. The more that you have an understanding of the past, the better it will be to make new works. Then the biggest thing is you have to practice, pick up paint, learn from fail and start again,” he emphasized.

    To offer more opportunities for Chinese graffiti enthusiasts and those unfamiliar with graffiti to learn more about this art form, Ket intends to publish more related books in the future.

    “I believe we are open to moving around the world and presenting wherever the opportunities come anywhere in China, anywhere in Asia, really anywhere in the world, but our focus is on education,” Ket affirmed.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: Concert pays tribute to a brilliant composer

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    A concert featuring the works of Russia-born Jewish composer Aaron Avshalomov (1894-1964), commemorating his 130th birthday, took place on Sept 12 at the Shanghai Symphony Hall. Conducted by the composer’s grandson, David Avshalomov, the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra opened the evening with his best-known piece, Peiping Hutongs.

    The audience was treated to a unique audio feast including familiar Peking Opera tunes, a bustle at a marketplace, and even a solemn funeral procession, giving them a vibe of life in Beijing’s byways and broadways from dawn to dusk.

    Peiping Hutongs is widely recognized as one of Aaron Avshalomov’s most iconic works. Previously, the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra took this piece in 2017 to Switzerland, playing at the Lucerne Festival, one of the leading international classical music festivals.

    Aaron Avshalomov was born in Siberia, Russia, and came to China in 1918. He lived in Beijing for several years, and settled in Shanghai in 1929, where he kicked off a prolific music career before leaving for the United States to join his family in 1947.

    He created a synthesis of Chinese musical elements and Western techniques of orchestra composition, including several operas based on Chinese folklore and historical figures, such as Kuan Yin, The Twilight Hour of Yan Kuei Fei, and The Great Wall.

    Many of his important works were premiered in Shanghai, receiving widespread critical acclaim.

    The Great Wall, for example, was sponsored by Soong Ching Ling, the wife of Sun Yat-sen, a pioneering Chinese revolutionary leader, and her younger sister Soong Mei-ling, and was highly praised and recommended by leading figures in the literary and art scene, such as Peking Opera master Mei Lanfang, playwright Xia Yan and director Fei Mu.

    In 1935, Aaron Avshalomov was requested by renowned Chinese musician He Lyuting to orchestrate the theme song composer Nie Er produced for a movie about Chinese fighting against the Japanese aggression in 1935. This made him the first to orchestrate what would become the national anthem of the People’s Republic of China — March of the Volunteers.

    Aaron Avshalomov and his son Jacob Avshalomov in Portland in 1961.

    Aaron Avshalomov’s son, Jacob, was born in Qingdao, Shandong province, in 1919, but spent most of his childhood in Shanghai. He returned to the US with his mother in December 1937. Jacob Avshalomov studied composition and became a composer in the US.

    However, his most important work was with the Portland Youth Philharmonic, which he conducted for 44 years, teaching youngsters to play like professionals. The orchestra was “for a long time the best youth orchestra in the US, maybe in the world”, David Avshalomov said about his late father, who died in 2013.

    Jacob Avshalomov compiled the correspondence with his father while he was in China, and wrote a family biography, Avshalomovs’ Winding Way: Composers out of China — A Chronicle, published in 2008.

    Friends familiar with Jacob Avshalomov’s career described him as a person “speaking Chinese with standard Beijing accent” and “a pillar of the city’s cultural life”. The city here refers to Portland, Oregon.

    “This double autobiography assembles the letters of Aaron with a narrative by Jacob to tell in their own words how two very different people overcame daunting obstacles and brought great music to appreciative audiences in China and America,” reads a review by George Alderson, who used to perform in the Portland Youth Philharmonic, on Amazon.

    Through music, now the family linage with China has extended to David Avshalomov, an American classical composer and conductor. This is his second visit to China. The last time was in 1982, when he visited Beijing, Xi’an, Nanjing, Hangzhou and Shanghai.

    David Avshalomov’s interpretation on Sept 12 was praised by Tao Xin, professor of the Shanghai Conservatory of Music, as “filled with longing and strong emotions”. Tao also praised the second piece, Violin Concerto in D Major, featuring soloist Liu Ming, concertmaster of the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra. He wrote in his review the next day, saying “with her superb techniques and delicate musicality, Liu Ming and the orchestra presented the glory, joy and peacefulness of traditional Chinese culture”.

    Prior to the concert, David Avshalomov visited the former Pathe Villa, the old venue of Pathe Recordings in Shanghai, where his grandfather Aaron Avshalomov used to work, and where the first recording of March of the Volunteers was made.

    To prepare the concert, David Avshalomov said he spent hundreds of hours to renew his memories by reading history books and listening to old soundtracks, in particular, the version recorded in 1937 in Shanghai which his grandfather might be on the recording site.

    He also said he was moved by, and appreciated, the people who knew his grandfather and described him as a kind and generous person.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Public urged to stay vigilant against cardiovascular diseases in support of World Heart Day

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Department of Health (DH) today (September 29) urged members of the public to take positive steps to care for their hearts and prevent cardiovascular diseases. This appeal was made in support of World Heart Day held on September 29 annually.      Cardiovascular diseases, including heart disease and stroke, are the leading cause of death globally. However, 80 per cent of premature deaths from cardiovascular diseases are preventable by limiting risk factors and practising heart-healthy behaviours. The most important behavioural risk factors of heart disease and stroke are unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, use of tobacco and alcohol. The effects of behavioural risk factors may show up in individuals as overweight and obesity, raised blood pressure, raised blood glucose, and raised blood lipids. These “intermediate risks factors” can be measured in primary care facilities and indicate an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, heart failure and other complications. Identifying those at a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases and ensuring they receive appropriate treatment can prevent premature deaths.     In Hong Kong, cardiovascular diseases are a major cause of mortality and morbidity. In 2023, there were 11 138 registered deaths* attributed to cardiovascular diseases, including 7 258 deaths* due to heart diseases. The Population Health Survey (PHS) 2020-22 adopted the Framingham Risk Model to predict the risk of cardiovascular outcomes including coronary heart diseases, strokes, peripheral artery diseases and heart failure. Among asymptomatic persons aged 40 to 74 living in the community, 18.4 per cent were classified as high risk for cardiovascular issues, with a likelihood of 20 per cent or more over the next 10 years. The proportion of persons classified as high risk was much higher in males (34.0 per cent) than females (4.9 per cent) and increased with age (from 1.1 per cent among persons aged 40 to 44 to 44.5 per cent among persons aged 65 to 74).     More importantly, local surveys revealed that risk factors of cardiovascular diseases were prevalent among the general population. Among persons aged 15 or above, 97.9 per cent reported consuming an average of less than five servings of fruit and vegetables per day, which is the amount recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO), 9.1 per cent were daily conventional cigarette smokers, and 8.7 per cent consumed alcohol regularly (i.e. at least once a week). In addition, the PHS 2020-22 revealed that 24.8 per cent of persons aged 18 or above did not meet the WHO’s recommended levels of aerobic physical activity for optimal health. The prevalence of overweight and obesity, raised blood pressure, raised blood glucose and raised total blood cholesterol among persons aged between 15 and 84 was 54.6 per cent, 29.5 per cent, 8.5 per cent and 51.9 per cent, respectively.      To guard against cardiovascular diseases, members of the public are urged to lead a healthy lifestyle that includes eating a balanced diet with at least five daily servings of fruit and vegetables, reducing fat, salt and sugar intake, being physically active, avoiding smoking, and refraining from alcohol consumption.     Apart from healthy living, early identification and proper management of risk factors for cardiovascular diseases, including diabetes mellitus (DM) and hypertension (HT), is another key strategy for lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases. The Government launched the three-year Chronic Disease Co-Care Pilot Scheme (CDCC Pilot Scheme) on November 13, 2023, to subsidise Hong Kong residents aged 45 or above with no known medical history of DM or HT to undergo DM and HT screening services in the private healthcare sector. As at August 7, 2024, around 40 per cent* of participants who have completed the screening have been diagnosed with prediabetes, DM or HT. They can then receive long-term follow-up care in the community provided by Family Doctors, District Health Centre (DHC)/DHC Express, and other healthcare service providers according to clinical conditions. For more details, members of the public may browse the dedicated website of the CDCC Pilot Scheme (www.primaryhealthcare.gov.hk/cdcc/en).     To help members of the public maintain heart health, the Government will continue organising health promotional campaigns and work in close partnership with community partners to increase public awareness about the importance of healthy living in preventing cardiovascular diseases and to foster a heart-healthy environment.     For more information about healthy living, please visit the Change4Health website of the DH. *Provisional figures

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News