Category: Asia

  • MIL-OSI USA: US Department of Labor files suit to recover unpaid overtime wages, damages for more than 180 shortchanged Coway USA workers

    Source: US Department of Labor

    LOS ANGELES – The U.S. Department of Labor has filed a suit in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California alleging that Coway USA Inc., a Los Angeles-based company that sells, leases and services household appliances, failed to pay overtime wages earned by more than 180 employees, a violation of the Fair Labor Standards Act

    The action follows an investigation by the department’s Wage and Hour Division that found Coway knowingly shortchanged employees who serviced and maintained company products by falsifying employment records to hide all hours worked by employees. The investigation also revealed that Coway failed to account or pay for time spent by employees on calls with customers, loading and unloading vehicles with products for delivery, trips to the warehouse to pick up inventory and attending mandatory trainings. Additionally, Coway automatically deducted 30 minutes per day for lunch even though employees worked through lunch to meet customer needs or stay on schedule.

    In addition to falsifying records, the department alleges that Coway utilized a flawed methodology for purposes of computing overtime pay, further reducing their overtime liability and depriving employees of their overtime wages. 

    The division estimates Coway owes hundreds of thousands of dollars in unpaid overtime wages to more than 180 employees. In addition to seeking the recovery of all unpaid wages, the department is seeking an equal amount in liquidated damages. 

    “Coway knowingly violated federal law by depriving workers of their hard-earned overtime pay and falsifying the hours they worked,” explained Regional Solicitor Marc Pilotin in San Francisco. “Coway’s violations have to be remedied and the company must be brought into compliance to ensure workers are fully and accurately compensated.”  

    “Our investigation found Coway, with brand ambassadors such as Korean pop band BTS, failed to pay more than 180 workers their overtime wages,” said Wage and Hour Division District Director Kimchi Bui in Los Angeles. “Employers can pay by piece-rate based on the number of units employees service, but they must pay overtime using the correct methodology and accounting for all hours worked.”

    Based in Los Angeles, Coway USA Inc. is a subsidiary of international household appliance manufacturer Coway Co. Ltd. The company produces water purifiers, air purifiers, bidets, water softeners and mattresses from South Korea.

    The Wage and Hour Division’s Los Angeles District Office conducted the investigation. The regional Office of the Solicitor in San Francisco is litigating the case in court.

    Learn more about the Wage and Hour Division, including a search tool to use if you think you may be owed back wages collected by the division and how to file an online complaint. For confidential compliance assistance, employees and employers can call the agency’s toll-free helpline at 866-4US-WAGE (487-9243), regardless of where they are from. The division can speak with callers in more than 200 languages.

    Download the agency’s new Timesheet App for iOS and Android devices – available in English and Spanish – to ensure hours and pay are accurate.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Western Global Airlines to pay $84K to resolve gender wage discrimination alleged in federal review

    Source: US Department of Labor

    ESTERO, FL – The U.S. Department of Labor announced its Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs and Western Global Airlines Inc. have entered into a conciliation agreement in which the employer will pay $84,727 in back wages and interest to resolve alleged gender-based pay discrimination at the company’s Estero facility. 

    A routine compliance review of Western Global Airlines initially raised concerns about base pay and bonuses for female managers, support professionals, technicians and administrators. The agency determined the employer’s actions violated Executive Order 11246, which prohibits federal contractors from discriminating in employment based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or national origin.

    Western Global Airlines agreed to resolve the OFCCP’s preliminary findings by paying 18 female workers $79,977 in back wages and interest, as well as $4,750 in bonuses. As part of the agreement, the employer will conduct an annual review of its compensation policies and practices and provide training to company officials responsible for determining compensation. During the agency’s compliance evaluation, the employer also made $157,500 in pay equity adjustments to female employees.

    “As a federal contractor, Western Global Airlines Inc. must ensure their employment practices are free of discrimination, provide all employees with equal employment opportunities and audit their processes to make sure no barriers to equal employment exist,” said Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs Acting Southeast Regional Director Diana Sen. 

    View the conciliation agreement

    Since 2023, Western Global Airlines Inc. has been paid more than $4.5 million in federal contracts to provide scheduled freight air transportation services to the Department of Defense’s U.S. Transportation Command.   

    OFCCP launched the Class Member Locator to identify applicants or workers who may be entitled to monetary relief and/or consideration for job placement as a result of OFCCP’s compliance evaluations and complaint investigations. 

    In addition to Executive Order 11246, OFCCP enforces Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974. Together, these laws prohibit employment discrimination.

    Learn more about OFCCP.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: The United States Announces Nearly $199 Million in Additional Humanitarian Assistance for the Rohingya Refugee Crisis

    Source: USAID

    Today, the United States announced nearly $199 million in additional humanitarian assistance to address the needs of Rohingya refugees and host communities in Bangladesh and the region, including over $129 million through USAID and nearly $70 million from the U.S. Department of State. U.S. Department of State Under Secretary for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights Uzra Zeya announced the funding at a Rohingya-focused event during the UN General Assembly High-level week. 

    USAID’s assistance includes funding from the bipartisan National Security Supplemental as well as $78 million from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Commodity Credit Corporation, which will help to purchase, ship, and distribute approximately 52,200 metric tons of food commodities from American farmers to approximately 610,000 refugees experiencing acute food insecurity in Bangladesh. It will also support the International Rescue Committee, UNICEF, and the UN World Food Program to provide food, nutrition, and protection assistance to Rohingya refugees and host communities.

    The U.S. government has provided more than $2.5 billion for the regional Rohingya response since August 2017, including more than $2.1 billion in Bangladesh. We remain committed to delivering assistance to crisis-affected communities in Burma, Bangladesh, and the region and call on other donors to increase their support in order to fill critical funding gaps and meet the needs of the most vulnerable.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Swaminathan J: Reaching the unreached – ensuring last mile connectivity of banking services

    Source: Bank for International Settlements

    Regional Director of RBI for Karnataka, Smt. Sonali Sen Gupta; Chief General Manager, NABARD, Shri KVSSLV Prasada Rao; Chief General Manager, Canara Bank and Convenor, SLBC Karnataka, Shri K.J. Shrikanth; Area Heads of Union Bank of India and Bank of Baroda, senior executives from banks; Lead District Managers (LDMs); District Development Managers (DDMs); LDOs and other officers of RBI, present here. Ellarigu Namaskara and a very good morning to all.

    Let me begin by complimenting Bengaluru Regional Office of the Reserve Bank of India for organising this conference with an apt theme – Reaching the Unreached – Ensuring Last Mile Connectivity of Banking Services. The theme reminds us that financial inclusion is an ongoing journey. While significant progress has been made in this journey, there is still some distance to be traversed. I must also thank the Bengaluru Regional Office for selecting this place, Hubballi, for this conference, a place where I served as a young officer of State Bank of India, some thirty years ago – which brings back lots of nostalgic memories of the basic banking that we used to do over three decades ago.

    India’s journey towards inclusive development after independence has been marked by several initiatives aimed at reducing poverty and improving living standards. Measures like expanding access to essential services such as education, healthcare and sanitation, and creating productive employment opportunities for all sections of the population have seen tremendous progress. Ensuring that the benefits of economic growth are shared by all segments of society, including marginalised groups has been the cornerstone of these initiatives. It has been a multifaceted journey with significant achievements in terms of economic growth, poverty alleviation, improvements in education and health care, etc.

    In the relatively early days of this journey, the Lead Bank Scheme was institutionalised in 1969 and since then the Scheme has served as an important tool in enhancing credit flow to the sectors that have been identified as national priority and to the underserved population of the country, boosting economic growth at all levels, e.g., block level, district level and state level.

    Over more than half a century since its inception, the Scheme has evolved in line with the development agenda for the country. The Lead Bank Scheme relies on a co-ordinated approach at all levels amongst banks, financial institutions and the government machinery for effective delivery of banking services to all sections of the economy. This co-ordinated approach has yielded significant results in terms of expanding banking access and improvement in the flow of priority sector credit.

    More recently it has also led to the expansion of digital payments with SLBCs taking the lead role in the objective of making every district in the country digitally enabled. I am happy to note that 354 districts are now digitally enabled. Ten states including Karnataka and six Union Territories have achieved 100 per cent coverage of districts under this initiative.

    Indeed, the Lead Bank Scheme can be a powerful tool to bring about transformative change. As LDMs, DDMs and LDOs, you are the very pillars on which this scheme rests, playing a crucial role in driving financial inclusion at grassroots level. Your efforts in extending banking services and credit access to underserved regions would undoubtedly bring immense satisfaction to all involved. Having served as the Convenor for the SLBC in Telangana, I can personally attest to the deep fulfilment that comes from making a tangible difference in people’s lives through the LBS fora.

    A common question we face is, are we doing enough? How much more remains to be done? In 2021, the Reserve Bank introduced the Financial Inclusion Index (FI-Index), which tracks progress across 97 indicators in three key dimensions: (i) Access (ii) Usage (iii) Quality. The Index which was at 53.9 in March 2021 now stands at 64.2 for March 2024 as a testimony to the efforts that has been put in by all of you.

    India has made significant strides in enhancing ‘access’ to banking and financial services, reaching even the most remote areas. However, there is still considerable ground to cover in deepening financial inclusion. This requires greater focus on promoting ‘usage’ and improving the ‘quality’ of services. In both these critical areas, the role of Lead District Managers from the banks and District Development Managers from NABARD is indispensable.

    In this context, I would like to outline a few key expectations.

    Know your district well

    Firstly, it is imperative that you cultivate a deep understanding of your respective districts-so, you should truly ‘Know Your Districts’ well. This knowledge will form a solid foundation for comprehensive district profiles, covering a wide range of critical data. Such profiles could include detailed demographic information, agricultural trends, banking penetration and activities, industrial profiles, and the various performance metrics under the Annual Credit Plans (ACP).

    Knowing your districts well, you can leverage upon data analytics and field surveys to gain insights into economic activities, local credit needs, and barriers to credit access. A holistic understanding of your district will enable you to identify gaps in financial inclusion, assess the credit needs of different sectors, and design targeted strategies for intervention. It will also help you to identify the root causes of the various issues observed in your districts. By staying attuned to your districts, you can provide invaluable feedback to the SLBCs, enabling the formulation of targeted and effective credit plans, and foster sustainable economic growth and development.

    Formulation of targeted and effective credit plans, a bottom up approach

    Secondly, building upon your strong understanding of your district, the formulation, monitoring, and implementation of Credit Plans must follow a granular bottom-up approach.

    The principal phase of credit planning is done by DDMs by preparing the Potential Linked Credit Plans (PLPs) for all the districts in the State by mapping credit potential under Priority Sector Lending (PSL). The preparation of PLPs involves assessment of block-wise and sector-wise potential. LDMs conceptualise the block credit plans at the grassroots level which aggregate into district credit plans, ultimately converging to shape the comprehensive state-level Annual Credit Plan. While doing so, target setting for credit disbursement needs to be aspirational while being realistic. LDMs must take into account the scope for lending indicated in the Potential Linked Plan as well as the past record of achievement in credit disbursement while formalising the credit plans for the blocks and districts under their charge.

    Address the gaps

    Thirdly, we need to address the remaining gaps. Although credit delivery to priority sectors has progressed over time, there is still significant work to be done especially with regard to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises. Similarly, nearly half of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) are yet to be linked to formal credit, and a large proportion of small and marginal farmers still lack access to bank financing. Therefore, we must factor in the credit requirements of these segments in PLPs as well as in block and district-level credit strategies.

    MSMEs are crucial to India realising her demographic dividend. One of the key requirements in this regard is increasing the female labour participation rate. Various studies1 have shown that businesses with at least one women founder have a more inclusive work culture, employ more women than men and generate more revenue. However, less than 20 per cent of MSMEs are owned by women. Women entrepreneurs often encounter major hurdles, such as limited access to funding, societal barriers, and challenges in obtaining affordable finance.

    It is therefore crucial to bridge the gender gap. At the district level, this can be addressed by offering support to women-led enterprises through government-sponsored programmes and tailored banking schemes for women-owned businesses. Additionally, efforts must be made to raise awareness among potential women entrepreneurs about these opportunities and provide them with necessary guidance and support.

    Financial literacy

    Fourthly, we need to bolster financial literacy. Strengthening the supply-side is crucial, but holistic financial inclusion also necessitates demand-side initiatives. Financial literacy stands as a fundamental building block. It is not just about access, it is about empowering individuals to make informed choices. Financial literacy is the ability of people to understand and effectively use various financial skills, including personal financial management, budgeting, and investing.

    Members of public should be made aware of various financial products available to them, be it social security products such as insurance and pension schemes, which will cover their risks or loan products with significant subsidies that will enable them to undertake productive economic activities. A special focus needs to be given to Digital Financial Literacy for improving public confidence in undertaking digital transactions. This will enable banks to explore avenues for wider adoption of fintech, to provide seamless and frictionless credit.

    At the block level, financial literacy is being promoted through Centres for Financial Literacy (CFLs), established by NGOs with funding support from the RBI, NABARD, and banks. The reach of CFLs has expanded significantly, with 2,421 CFLs now operating across almost every block in the country. In Karnataka alone, 79 CFLs and 177 Financial Literacy Centres (FLCs) are spreading awareness of financial products at the grassroots level. LDMs must play a crucial role in ensuring that FLCs perform their functions effectively, supporting CFLs, participating in CFL camps, and facilitating the linkage of financial services while overseeing the proper conduct of these camps.

    In conclusion, I encourage you to give your best, set exemplary standards, and become pioneers in developmental activities, ensuring continued progress of your districts and the State of Karnataka.

    As you may be aware, the Reserve Bank of India is celebrating 90 years of its foundation this year. Looking ahead to the next decade, our journey towards RBI@100, we have formulated strategies aimed at positioning the Reserve Bank as a model central bank of the Global South. One of our key objectives is to deepen financial inclusion by enhancing the Accessibility, Availability, and Quality of financial services for all segments of society. I urge each of you to actively support us in realizing this vision by contributing to inclusive growth, ensuring that no one is left behind in accessing essential financial services, and fostering economic empowerment at the grassroots level.

    I would like to leave you with a quote from Rashtrakavi Kuvempu (an extract from his epic work “Malegaḷalli madumagaḷu”):

    ಇಲ್ಲಿಯಾರೂ ಮುಖ್ಯರಲ್ಲ
    Illi yaaroo mukhyaralla
    No one is precious here

    ಯಾರೂ ಅಮುಖ್ಯರಲ್ಲ
    Yaroo amukhyaralla
    No one is unimportant here

    ಇಲ್ಲಿ ಎಲ್ಲಕ್ಕೂ ಇದೆ ಅರ್ಥ
    Illi ellakkoo ide artha
    Everything has significance here

    ಯಾವುದೂ ಅಲ್ಲ ವ್ಯರ್ಥ
    Yavudoo alla vyartha
    Nothing is useless

    ನೀರೆಲ್ಲವೂ ತೀರ್ಥ!
    Neerellevoo theertha!
    All the water is holy!

    In the context of today’s gathering, it would mean: All groups of people are equally important and should be financially included; every effort taken for financial inclusion is meaningful and nothing goes wasted.

    With this I would like to end with my best wishes to each one of you. Thank you!


    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Kazuo Ueda: Japan’s economy and monetary policy

    Source: Bank for International Settlements

    Introduction

    It is my great pleasure to have the opportunity today to exchange views with a distinguished gathering of business leaders in the Kansai region. I would like to take this chance to express my sincerest gratitude for your cooperation with the activities of the Bank of Japan’s branches in Osaka, Kobe, and Kyoto. I look forward to hearing your candid opinions, which will be useful in the Bank’s policy decisions and business operations.

    Before hearing from you, I would like to talk about developments in Japan’s economic activity and prices and explain the Bank’s thinking on the conduct of monetary policy.

    I. Economic Activity and Prices

    Current Situation of and Outlook for Economic Activity

    Let me start by talking about the current situation of and outlook for economic activity in Japan. As shown in Chart 1, real GDP for the April-June quarter of 2024 increased clearly. The Bank assesses that the economy has recovered moderately, although some weakness has been seen in part, and expects that it will continue to recover moderately.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Oil Street Art Space new exhibition showcases creative ceramic artworks (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Oil Street Art Space new exhibition showcases creative ceramic artworks (with photos)
    Oil Street Art Space new exhibition showcases creative ceramic artworks (with photos)
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         ​The Oil Street Art Space (Oi!) launched the Archaic Curator Series in 2022 and has invited Chinese art historians and curators to collaborate on exhibitions that engage with traditional Chinese art through innovative forms of expression, bridging the old and the new. The third exhibition of the series, “Archaic Curator Series: The Charm of Colour – Travel with Ceramics through Time and Space”, will be held from tomorrow (September 26) until January 31 next year at Oi! Glassie to showcase creative ceramic artworks.     The guest curator and Associate Curator (Antiquities) of the Art Museum of the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), Dr Wang Guanyu, invited three artists from Jingdezhen and Hong Kong – Gu Yue, Fiona Wong and Caroline Cheng – to participate in the exhibition. Inspired by the CUHK Art Museum’s collection, the three artists infuse their own technical artistry and aesthetics into their works to showcase their personal understanding and interpretation of contemporary ceramic art.     Jingdezhen, also known as the millennium porcelain capital, is renowned for its rich ceramic heritage. Gu Yue, a graduate of Jingdezhen Ceramic University, draws inspiration from flowers and nature to express the vibrant spirit of the new generation of ceramic artists. His works skilfully blend traditional moulding and decorative techniques with contemporary aesthetics. Fiona Wong, who focuses on exploring soil and studying Hong Kong’s culture, draws inspiration from the stories surrounding Nam Koo Terrace, a century-old mansion in Wan Chai. Her artwork comprises a set of 3D-printed containers modelled on the patterned tiles of Nam Koo Terrace and an assembly of ceramic tiles recomposing a historical map of Wan Chai, to guide visitors to uncover the narratives behind contemporary urban development. Artist Caroline Cheng and her team have developed a method to upcycle ceramic waste into malleable clay, challenging the conventional perceptions of ceramics. Visitors to the exhibition can admire her latest works, crafted from this sustainable material.     There are different public engagement programmes in this exhibition. In the “A Tour to Travel with Ceramics through Time and Space” guided tour, docents will lead visitors to explore the two exhibitions at Oi! and the CUHK Art Museum. An education gallery will be set up at G/F Oi! Glassie. During the exhibition period, staff members will act as lab technicians and guide visitors to discover the secrets of ceramic production in a lively and interesting way. In addition, visitors can select a special ceramic colour in the Ceramic Colour Exploration Zone to create a personalised postcard to take home as a cherished souvenir.     During the exhibition period, the CUHK Art Museum will also showcase “Amazing Clay: Masterpieces from the Ceramic Collection of CUHK Art Museum” to enrich visitors’ appreciation of the beauty of traditional Chinese ceramics.     “Archaic Curator Series: The Charm of Colour – Travel with Ceramics through Time and Space” is presented by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) and the CUHK, and organised by Oi! and the Art Museum of CUHK. For more details about the exhibition and registration of programmes, please visit Oi! website at www.apo.hk/en/web/apo/oi_the_charm_of_colour.html, Facebook and Instagram or call 2512 3000. The exhibition is one of the activities under the Chinese Culture Promotion Series. The LCSD has long been promoting Chinese history and culture through organising an array of programmes and activities to enable the public to learn more about the broad and profound Chinese culture. For more information, please visit www.lcsd.gov.hk/en/ccpo/index.html.

     
    Ends/Wednesday, September 25, 2024Issued at HKT 18:40

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Final elector registers released

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The 2024 final registers of electors for geographical constituencies (GCs), functional constituencies (FCs) and Election Committee subsectors (ECSSs) were released today, the Registration & Electoral Office announced.

    A total of 4,210,384 electors are carried in the final register for GCs, it added.

    The final register for FCs contains 190,016 individual electors and 8,141 corporate electors, comprising a total of 198,157.

    Meanwhile, the final register for ECSSs contains 3,267 individual voters and 5,389 corporate voters, adding up to a total of 8,656.

    Relevant statistics have been uploaded to the voter registration website.

    Notices on the inspection of the final registers of electors were gazetted today.

    According to law, a copy of registers containing entries relating to individuals may only be shown in accordance with the statutory requirements, and made available for inspection by specified persons only. 

    A copy of registers containing entries of corporate electors may be inspected by any member of the public. 

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SJ continues ASEAN visit in Vietnam to strengthen ties with legal and business sectors (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    SJ continues ASEAN visit in Vietnam to strengthen ties with legal and business sectors (with photos)
    SJ continues ASEAN visit in Vietnam to strengthen ties with legal and business sectors (with photos)
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         The Secretary for Justice, Mr Paul Lam, SC, today (September 25) continued his visit programme in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, with a delegation comprising representatives from the Law Society of Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Bar Association and alternative dispute resolution (ADR) organisations.     In the morning, Mr Lam and his delegation met with the Chief Supervisor of the China Business Association Ho Chi Minh City Branch, Mr Sun Guo Qiang, to discuss and explore business opportunities in both places and learn about the demand for legal services in the local business sector. They then had lunch with Vice-Chairman of the Hong Kong Business Association Vietnam Mr Fred Burke to have a better understanding of the Vietnam business environment and their need for cross-jurisdictional legal services.     In the afternoon, Mr Lam and his delegation met with representatives from the Vietnam International Arbitration Center to exchange views on recent developments in the arbitration landscape in both places and explore ways to strengthen collaboration. They then had a meeting with representatives from the Ho Chi Minh City Bar Association to discuss the development of the legal profession and explore potential future collaborations in building stronger and closer ties.     In the evening, Mr Lam will have dinner with the Acting Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Ho Chi Minh City, Mr Xu Zhou, to share with him the latest developments in Hong Kong’s legal and ADR sector.     Upon arriving in Ho Chi Minh City yesterday afternoon, Mr Lam and his delegation attended a forum titled “Hong Kong: The Common Law Gateway for Vietnamese Businesses to China and Beyond”, followed by a networking dinner, organised by the Department of Justice, the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Singapore and the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry to meet local legal and business sectors. Speakers from the Hong Kong delegation shared their views with the audience on various topics, including Hong Kong’s diversified legal and dispute resolution services, its unique advantages of enjoying strong support from the motherland while being closely connected to the world under “one country, two systems”, and the opportunities arising from the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and the Belt and Road Initiative. The event received an enthusiastic response with over 120 participants from the legal, business and other sectors of Vietnam.     Mr Lam and the delegation will conclude their visit to Ho Chi Minh City and depart for Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, tomorrow (September 26) to attend a seminar to promote Hong Kong’s legal and dispute resolution services.

     
    Ends/Wednesday, September 25, 2024Issued at HKT 18:50

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: eHealth applicable at 3 GBA hospitals

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Health Bureau announced today that from September 30, the new functions of the “Cross-boundary Health Record” and “Personal Folder” in the eHealth mobile app will be applicable at three more hospitals under the Elderly Health Care Voucher Greater Bay Area Pilot Scheme.

    Such hospitals include the Nansha Division of The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, the Dongguan Tungwah Hospital, and the Shenzhen New Frontier United Family Hospital.

    The goal of the move is to enhance the continuity of medical care for Hong Kong citizens through facilitating their secure use of electronic health records (eHRs) across the boundary, the bureau explained.

    Starting next Monday, eligible senior citizens who use Elderly Health Care Vouchers at the three 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, a “File QR Code” and a “Password QR Code” will be sent to the user via the eHealth app. Healthcare professionals can then access and browse the eHRs by scanning the two QR codes presented by the user at the time of consultation to assist in diagnoses and treatment.

    Following system enhancements, the time required for preparing eHRs has been reduced to no more than 24 hours, meaning that patients should submit their applications one day prior to consultation, the bureau advised.

    It added that patients can deposit medical-related records obtained during consultations received outside Hong Kong into their eHealth personal accounts.

    This is done through eHealth’s “Personal Folder” function, which can facilitate the storage and use of personal medical-related records obtained in and outside Hong Kong. Authorised healthcare providers in Hong Kong can access such records through eHealth during follow-up consultations.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Polytechnic University Higher School of Engineering and Economics Wins BRICS Megagrant Competition

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    A team of researchers from the Higher School of Engineering and Economics (VIES) of the Institute of Industrial Management, Economics and Trade, together with colleagues from India and China, have won an international mega-grant from the BRICS framework program. Over the course of three years, the research team will analyze and evaluate the sustainable development of industrial and regional structures in the countries participating in the project.

    The project of the Higher School of Engineering and Economics, developed jointly with scientists from India and China, received funding under the BRICS STI Framework Programme Call 2023: Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation.

    The BRICS Framework Programme for Scientific and Technological Integration (BRICS STI FP) is aimed at supporting advanced technical, economic, environmental and social solutions in priority areas for ensuring the progressive development of the Commonwealth countries and bringing a synergistic effect. The programme envisages an annual competition for mega-grants for the implementation of international research projects involving participants from BRICS member states jointly carrying out fundamental, applied and innovative research.

    A total of 104 applications were submitted for the competition in 2024. The project of the team of researchers from the Higher School of Engineering and Economics led by the director of VIES Dmitry Rodionov on the topic “Managing the sustainable development of industrial structures within the framework of the Water-Energy-Food concept” became one of 19 winning projects that were selected for financial support.

    The research project of the SPbPU team of scientists is based on the latest concept of “Water-Energy-Food”. The work will involve a comprehensive systemic study in three areas: analysis and assessment of the potential for sustainable development in the fuel and energy complex, mechanical engineering and the agro-industrial complex in Russia, India and China. The central link in the study is the economic and mathematical block “Systemic Modeling of Industrial and Regional Structure Development Management Processes” under the supervision of Doctor of Economics Andrey Zaitsev. The best mathematical models and tool developments will be implemented in decision-making systems in managing the sustainable development of industrial structures in Russia, China and India.

    The success of the project in the grant competition was largely determined by the scientific competencies and creative potential of the VIESH team, including both experienced scientists – doctors of science (D. G. Rodionov, N. G. Viktorova, I. A. Rudskaya, A. A. Zaitsev), and young researchers trained by the school, including those who received PhD degrees in the dissertation councils of the Polytechnic University (N. D. Dmitriev, A. S. Furtatova, D. D. Tutueva, D. A. Kryzhko). The team included researchers involved in the economics of energy, water resources, the agro-industrial complex, and the development of mathematical and statistical methods in economics.

    The project will be implemented with the support of industrial partner Neo Engineering LLC.

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

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

    https://vvv.spbstu.ru/media/nevs/achivments/higher-engineering-economics-school-polytechnic-winner-of-the-competition-for-a-mega-grant-bri/

    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: Golden Week travel meeting held

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Security Bureau today held an interdepartmental meeting to co-ordinate the management of passenger and vehicular flows at land boundary control points (BCPs) during the Mainland’s National Day Golden Week holiday.

    To ensure smooth and orderly operation of the land BCPs during the holiday period, relevant departments will strengthen manpower, as well as co-ordination of transport and cross-boundary services, at these points. This will include strengthening crowd management and increasing transport frequency.

    Relevant departments have minimised leave for frontline officers to enable the flexible deployment and operation of extra clearance counters and kiosks. Additional security guards will also be deployed at individual BCPs to provide crowd management support.

    The Inter-departmental Joint Command Centre set up by customs, Police, the Immigration Department and other departments will be activated during the National Day Golden Week to facilitate monitoring of the situation at control points.

    The relevant departments will also maintain close liaison with the Culture, Sports & Tourism Bureau, and Mainland counterparts. They will take timely contingency actions to flexibly deploy manpower at the BCPs and open more e-Channels and counters to ease passenger and vehicular flows where necessary.

    The Transport Department’s Emergency Transport Co-ordination Centre will operate round the clock to monitor traffic and public transport services in different districts, including at BCPs and major stations. It will disseminate the latest traffic information via various channels and implement response measures where appropriate.

    Police will make appropriate traffic arrangements according to the circumstances. If necessary, this will include arranging for public transport to use the dedicated lane on San Sham Road to reach Lok Ma Chau/Huanggang Port.

    The public and visitors can check the estimated waiting times at each land BCP via the Immigration Department’s mobile application in order to plan their itineraries. The daily arrival figures for each control point will be uploaded onto a designated web page.

    Secretary for Security Tang Ping-keung, who chaired the interdepartmental meeting, said relevant departments will maintain close liaison and co-ordinate with one another to properly manage passenger and vehicular flows, providing an orderly and smooth experience for the public and visitors to Hong Kong.

    The bureau will activate its Emergency Monitoring & Support Centre in a timely manner to closely monitor and co-ordinate the public order situation at various BCPs and facilitate follow-up actions where necessary, he added.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Translation: VATICAN/GENERAL AUDIENCE – Lebanon, the Pope: the international community must do everything possible to stop the “terrible escalation”

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Italy –

    Source: The Holy See in Italian

    Wednesday, September 25, 2024

    Vatican Media

    Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – “I am saddened by the news coming from Lebanon, where in recent days intense bombings have caused many victims and destruction”. At the end of the general audience, Pope Francis’ thoughts go to the Middle East, in particular to Lebanon, hit by a new Israeli raid in the last few hours. And while the first Hezbollah missile is intercepted over Tel Aviv, the Pontiff, from the parvis of the Vatican basilica hopes “that the international community will make every effort to stop this terrible escalation. It is unacceptable! I express my closeness to the Lebanese people, who have already suffered too much in the recent past”. “And let us pray for all the peoples who suffer because of the war: let us not forget the tormented Ukraine, Myanmar, Palestine, Israel, Sudan, all tormented peoples. Let us pray for peace”, adds the Pontiff, who during the general audience, today’s five hundredth, reiterates that one must not dialogue with the devil. “The strongest proof of Satan’s existence is not found in sinners or the possessed, but in saints,” says the Bishop of Rome, continuing the series of catecheses on the theme “The Spirit and his bride,” focusing today on the role of the Holy Spirit as “our ally in the fight against evil.” “It is true that the devil is present and operating in certain extreme and inhuman forms of evil and wickedness that we see around us,” Pope Francis emphasizes. “In this way, however, it is practically impossible to arrive, in individual cases, at the certainty that it is really him, given that we cannot know precisely where his action ends and our own evil begins. For this reason, the Church is very prudent and very rigorous in the exercise of exorcism, unlike what happens, unfortunately, in certain films!” “It is in the lives of the saints that the devil is forced to come out into the open, to place himself against the light,” he points out. More or less, all the saints and great believers testify to their struggle with this dark reality, and one cannot honestly suppose that they were all deluded or simply victims of the prejudices of their time”. And in our time, where technology reigns supreme, it is precisely this that offers, “in addition to many positive resources that should be appreciated, also countless means to give occasion to the devil, and many fall for it. Let us think of pornography on the Internet, behind which there is a flourishing market, we all know, it is the devil who works there. This is a very widespread phenomenon, but Christians must be wary of it and must forcefully reject it”. “Any cell phone has access to this brutality, to this language of the devil, pornography on the Internet”, the Pope said off the cuff. “The awareness of the devil’s action in history must not discourage us. The final thought must be, in this case too, one of trust and security. ‘I am with the Lord, go away!’ Christ defeated the devil and gave us the Holy Spirit to make his victory our own. The enemy’s action itself can turn to our advantage, if with God’s help we make it serve our purification. Be careful, the devil is cunning, but we Christians, with the grace of God, are more cunning than him”. (FB) (Agenzia Fides 25/9/2024) Share:

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Statement by Antonio Tajani, Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Italy in his capacity as Chair of the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting at the High-Level Week of the UN General Assembly (23 September 2024)

    Source: Republic of France in English
    The Republic of France has issued the following statement:

    1. Introduction

    In today’s meeting in New York, in the wake of the Summit of the Future, the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States and the High Representative of the European Union reiterated their commitment to upholding the rule of law, humanitarian principles and international law, including the Charter of the United Nations, and to protecting human rights and dignity for all individuals.

    They re-emphasized their determination to foster collective action in order to preserve peace and stability to address global challenges, such as the climate crisis and to advance the achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

    In doing so, the G7 members renewed their commitment to the promotion of free societies and democratic principles, where all persons can freely exercise their rights and freedoms.

    2. Summit for the Future

    In the spirit of the renewed determination to strengthen the multilateral system based on the UN Charter’s principles, as reflected in the Pact for the Future adopted at the Summit of the Future by world Leaders, the G7 members committed to continue working with countries and all relevant stakeholders within the UN system through dialogue, mutual understanding and respect in the pursuit of common solutions, with the aim of upholding and reforming the multilateral system so that it better reflects today’s world and is fit to respond to the complex global challenges of the future. They reaffirmed their commitment to work with all UN member states to strengthen the roles of the UNSG as well as the UNGA. They also recommitted to the reform of the UNSC.

    3. Steadfast Support to Ukraine

    The G7 members reaffirmed their unwavering support to Ukraine as it defends its freedom, sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, against Russia’s brutal and unjustifiable war of aggression. The G7 members strongly condemned Russia’s blatant breach of international law, including the UN Charter, and of the basic principles that underpin the international order. They strongly condemned the serious violations of international humanitarian law perpetrated by Russia’s forces in Ukraine, which have caused a devastating impact on the civilian population. Violence against civilians, including women, children, and prisoners of war is unacceptable.

    They expressed their outrage at Russia’s repeated attacks against critical infrastructure and they condemned in the strongest possible terms any targeting of civilian buildings and even hospitals. Ensuring the protection and resilience of Ukraine’s energy grid and its power generation capacity remains a fundamental and urgent priority as winter approaches. They welcomed the international conference on energy security held on August 22. .as well as the ongoing coordination of the G7 energy group. They reiterated their commitment to help Ukraine meet its urgent short-term financing needs, as well as support its long-term recovery and reconstruction priorities.

    Russia must end its war of aggression and pay for the damage it has caused to Ukraine. The G7 members reiterated their commitment to explore and use all possible lawful avenues by which Russia is made to meet those obligations.

    The launch of the Extraordinary Revenue Acceleration (ERA) Loans for Ukraine, as mandated by G7 leaders, will make available approximately USD 50 billion in additional funding to Ukraine that will be serviced and repaid by future flows of extraordinary revenues stemming from the immobilization of Russian sovereign assets held in the European Union and other relevant jurisdictions.

    The G7 Foreign Ministers and the High Representative are working, together with Finance Ministers, to operationalize the G7 Leaders’ commitment by the end of the year. They will maintain solidarity in this commitment to providing this support to Ukraine. The G7 members confirmed that, consistent with all applicable laws and their respective legal systems, Russia’s sovereign assets in their jurisdictions will remain immobilized until Russia ends its aggression and pays for the damage it has caused to Ukraine.

    They also committed to strengthening the Ukraine Donor Platform to help coordinate the disbursal of funds and ensure they align with Ukraine’s highest priority needs at a pace it can effectively absorb. This will play a key role in advancing Ukraine’s reforms in line with its European path and in contributing to a successful Ukraine Recovery Conference to be held in Italy in 2025.

    Any use of nuclear weapons by Russia in the context of its war of aggression against Ukraine would be inadmissible. They therefore condemned in the strongest possible terms Russia’s irresponsible and threatening nuclear rhetoric, as well as its posture of strategic intimidation. They also expressed their deepest concern about the reported use of chemical weapons as well as riot control agents as a method of warfare by Russia in Ukraine.

    The G7 members remained committed to holding those responsible accountable for atrocities in Ukraine, in line with international law. They also condemned the seizures of foreign companies and called on Russia to reverse these measures and seek acceptable solutions with the companies targeted by them.

    They condemned Russia’s seizure and continued control and militarization of Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, which poses severe risks for nuclear safety and security, potentially affecting the entire international community. They reiterated their support to the International Atomic Energy Agency’s efforts directed at mitigating such risks.

    They underlined once again their support for Ukraine’s right of self-defense and reiterated their commitment to Ukraine’s long-term security, recalling the launch of the Ukraine Compact in Washington on 11 July 2024. They re-affirmed the intention to increasing industrial production and delivery capabilities to assist Ukraine’s self-defense. They highlighted their support to Ukraine in its efforts to modernize its armed forces and strengthen its own defense industry. They expressed their resolve to bolster Ukraine’s air defense capabilities to save lives and protect critical infrastructure.

    They remained committed to raising the costs of Russia’s war of aggression by building on the comprehensive package of sanctions and economic measures already in place. Though existing measures have had a significant impact on Russia’s war machine and ability to fund its invasion, its military is still posing a threat not just to Ukraine but also to international security.

    The G7 members expressed the intention to continue taking appropriate measures, consistent with their legal systems, against actors in China and in third countries that materially support Russia’s war machine, including financial institutions, and other entities that facilitate Russia’s acquisition of items for its defense industrial base.

    They expressed their intention to continue to apply significant pressure on Russian revenues from energy and other commodities. This will include improving the efficacy of the oil price cap policy by taking further steps to tighten compliance and enforcement, including against Russia’s shadow fleet, while working to maintain market stability.

    They especially emphasized the urgency to support Ukraine’s energy security, including by coordinating international assistance through the G7+Ukraine Energy Coordination Group. They underscored the importance to continue working with the Ukrainian authorities and International Financial Institutions through the Ukraine Donor Platform, and by mobilizing private investments and fostering participation of civil society.

    They highlighted the reality of millions of internally displaced Ukrainians and the importance of an inclusive rights-based, gender-responsive recovery, including the reintegration of veterans and civilians with disabilities, and to address the needs of women, children as well as other population groups who have been disproportionately affected by Russia’s war of aggression. They reiterated their condemnation of Russia’s unlawful deportation of Ukrainian children and welcomed coordinated efforts to secure their safe return. They called on Russia to release all persons it has unjustly detained and safely return all civilians it has illegally transferred or deported, starting with children. They welcomed the Ministerial Conference on the Human Dimension of Ukraine’s 10 point peace formula that will be hosted by Canada on October 30-31.

    They reiterated the need to support Ukraine’s agriculture sector, which is critical for global food supply, particularly for the most vulnerable nations, and called for unimpeded exports of grain, foodstuffs, fertilizers and inputs from Ukraine.

    They acknowledged the importance to involve the private sector in the sustainable economic recovery of Ukraine. They welcomed and underscored the significance of Ukraine itself continuing to implement domestic reform efforts, especially in the fields of anti-corruption, justice system reform, decentralization, and promotion of the rule of law. These endeavors are in line with the Euro-Atlantic path Ukraine has embraced. The G7 members were unanimous on the need to continue to support efforts of the Ukrainian government and people in these endeavors.

    They resolutely condemned Russia’s holding of illegitimate ‘elections’ in the occupied Ukrainian Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol. Russia’s actions once again demonstrate its blatant disregard for Ukraine’s territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence, and the UN Charter. They called on all members of the international community to refrain from recognizing Russia’s illegitimate actions.

    They welcomed the Summit on Peace in Ukraine that took place in Switzerland on June 15-16 and its focus on the key priorities needed to achieve a framework for peace based on international law, including the UN Charter and its principles, and respect for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. They remained committed to follow up on the Conference through constructive engagement with all international partners to reach a comprehensive, just and lasting peace.

    The G7 members acknowledged that Russia continues to expand its campaigns of foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI). They condemned Russia’s use of FIMI to support its war of aggression against Ukraine. They reiterated their determination to bolster the G7 Rapid Response Mechanism by developing a collective response framework to counter foreign threats to democracies.

    4. Situation in the Middle East

    The G7 members reiterated their condemnation of Hamas’ horrendous attacks on October 7, 2023. 101 hostages are still in the hands of Hamas. They noted with deep concern the trend of escalatory violence in the Middle East and its repercussions on regional stability and on the lives of civilians shattered by this conflict, from the Gaza Strip to the Israeli-Lebanese Blue Line. Actions and counter-reactions risk magnifying this dangerous spiral of violence and dragging the entire Middle East into a broader regional conflict with unimaginable consequences. They called for a stop to the current destructive cycle, while emphasizing that no country stands to gain from a further escalation in the Middle East.

    They expressed their deep concern about the situation along the Blue Line. They recognized the essential stabilizing role played by the Lebanese Armed Forces and the UN Interim Force in Lebanon in mitigating that risk. They demanded the full implementation of UNSCR 1701 (2006) and urged that all relevant actors implement immediate measures towards de-escalation.

    The G7 members reaffirmed their strong support for the ongoing mediation efforts undertaken by the United States, Egypt and Qatar to reach a resolution between the parties to the conflict in Gaza. They reiterated their full commitment for the implementation of the UNSC Resolution 2735 (2024) and the comprehensive deal outlined by President Biden in May that would lead to an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the release of all hostages, a significant and sustained increase in the flow of humanitarian assistance throughout Gaza, and an enduring end to the crisis, to secure a pathway to a two-state solution with a safe Israel alongside a sovereign Palestinian state. They urged the parties to the conflict to unequivocally accept the ceasefire proposal, stressing the need for countries in a position to directly influence the parties to cooperate in strengthening mediation efforts. They called for the full implementation of the terms of the ceasefire proposal without delay and without conditions.

    They called on all parties to fully comply with international law, including international humanitarian law. They expressed their deep alarm for the heavy toll this conflict has taken on civilians, deploring all losses of civilian lives equally and noting with great concern that, after nearly a year of hostilities and regional instability, it is mostly civilians, including women and children, who are paying the highest price. Protection of civilians must be an absolute priority for all parties at all times.

    The G7 members expressed concern at the unprecedented level of food insecurity affecting most of the population in the Gaza Strip. Securing full, rapid, safe, and unhindered humanitarian access in all its forms and through all relevant crossing points remains an absolute priority. They urged all parties to allow the unimpeded delivery of aid and ensure protection of humanitarian workers by properly implementing de-confliction measures. They recognized the crucial role played by UN agencies and other humanitarian actors in delivering assistance especially health care for the most vulnerable persons, including the polio vaccination campaign. They expressed their support for UNRWA to effectively uphold its mandate, emphasizing the vital role that the UN Agency plays.

    The G7 members reaffirmed their unwavering commitment, through reinvigorated efforts in the Middle East Peace Process, to the vision of a two-state solution where two democratic states, Israel and Palestine, live side by side in peace within secure and recognized borders, consistent with international law and relevant UN resolutions, and in this regard stress the importance of unifying the Gaza strip with the West Bank under Palestinian Authority. We note that mutual recognition, to include the recognition of a Palestinian state, at the appropriate time, would be a crucial component of that political process. They expressed their concern about the risk of weakening the Palestinian Authority and underlined the importance of maintaining economic stability in the West Bank. They welcomed the EU’s 400 million Euro emergency package for the Palestinian Authority. All parties must refrain from unilateral actions and from divisive statements that may undermine the prospect of a two-state solution, including the Israeli expansion of settlements and the “legalization” of settlement outposts. They condemned the rise in extremist settler violence committed against Palestinians, which undermines security and stability in the West Bank and threatens prospects for a lasting peace. They expressed their deep concern regarding the deteriorating security situation in the West Bank.

    They reiterated their commitment to working together – and with other international partners – to closely coordinate and institutionalize their support for civil society peacebuilding efforts, ensuring that they are part of a larger strategy to build the foundation necessary for a negotiated and lasting Israeli-Palestinian peace. The G7 members called on Iran to contribute to de-escalation of tensions in the region. They demanded that Iran cease its destabilizing actions in the Middle East. They underlined that they stand ready to adopt further sanctions or take other measures in response to further destabilizing initiatives.

    They reiterated their determination that Iran must never develop or acquire a nuclear weapon and that the G7 will continue working together, and with other international partners, to address Iran’s nuclear escalation. A diplomatic solution remains the best way to resolve this issue. As the IAEA remains unable to verify that Iran’s nuclear program is exclusively peaceful, they urged Iran’s leadership to cease and reverse nuclear activities that have no credible civilian justification and to cooperate with the IAEA without further delay to fully implement their legally binding safeguards agreement and their commitments under UNSCR 2231(2015).

    They condemned in the strongest possible terms Iran’s export and Russia’s procurement of Iranian ballistic missiles. Evidence that Iran has continued to transfer weaponry to Russia despite repeated international calls to stop represents a further escalation of Iran’s military support to Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. Russia has used Iranian weaponry such as UAVs to kill Ukrainian civilians and strike their critical infrastructure.

    They reiterated that Iran must immediately cease all support to Russia’s illegal and unjustifiable war against Ukraine and halt such transfers of ballistic missiles, UAVs and related technology, which constitute a direct threat to the Ukrainian people as well as European and international security more broadly.

    They reaffirmed their steadfast commitment to hold Iran to account for its unacceptable support for Russia’s illegal war in Ukraine that further undermines global security. In line with their previous statements on the matter, they underscored that they are already responding with new and significant measures.

    They also reiterated their deep concern about Iran’s human rights violations, especially against women and minority groups. They reiterated their call on Iran to allow access to the country to relevant UN Human Rights Council Special Procedures mandate holders.

    De-escalation efforts in the region must also include the immediate and unconditional termination of any attack by the Houthis against international and commercial vessels transiting the Gulf of Aden, the Bab al-Mandeb Strait and the Red Sea. The G7 members reiterated their strong condemnation of these attacks and the right of countries to defend their vessels from attacks. They called for the immediate release by the Houthis of the Galaxy Leader and its crew. They expressed their strong concern about the August 21 attack on the merchant vessel Sounion and the ongoing risk of an environmental catastrophe as salvage operations continue. They welcomed the efforts by the EU maritime operation Aspides and by the US-led Operation Prosperity Guardian to protect vital sea lanes. They appreciated the efforts of those countries that are committed to protect freedom of navigation and trade, as well as maritime security, in line with UNSCR 2722 (2024) and in accordance with international law.

    5. Fostering partnerships with African Countries

    The G7 members reaffirmed their commitment to support African nations in the pursuit of sustainable development as well as the creation of jobs and growth. The focus remains on fostering fair partnerships, built on shared principles, democratic values, local leadership, and practical initiatives.

    They reiterated their intention to align actions with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the specific needs of African countries, including plans to improve local and regional food security, infrastructure, trade, and agricultural productivity. They expressed their support for the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area, a crucial factor for Africa’s growth in the next decade.

    The G7 members emphasized the need to strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation with African countries and regional organizations. In addition to maintaining financial support for African nations, they expressed their determination to improve the coordination and effectiveness of G7 resources, mobilizing domestic resources and encouraging increased private investments.

    They welcomed the African Union’s permanent membership in the G20, and the creation of an additional Chair for Sub-Saharan Africa on the IMF Executive Board in November.

    They reaffirmed their commitment to the G20 Compact with Africa, a tool aimed at enhancing private investment, driving structural reforms, supporting local entrepreneurship, and fostering cooperation, particularly in the energy sector. The G7 Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment (PGII), and initiatives like the EU’s Global Gateway can contribute to promote sustainable, resilient, and economically viable infrastructure in Africa, ensuring transparency in project selection, procurement, and financing. In this framework, they welcomed Italy’s Mattei Plan for Africa.

    They recognized that sustainable development, peace and security and democracy go hand in hand, reaffirming their commitment to help African governments in strengthening democratic governance and respect for human rights, while addressing conditions conducive to terrorism, violent extremism, and instability.

    They expressed their deep concern about the destabilizing activities of the Kremlin-backed Wagner Group and other Russia-supported entities. They called for accountability for all those responsible for human rights violations and abuses.

    6. Indo-Pacific

    The G7 members reiterated their commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific, based on the rule of law, which is inclusive, prosperous and secure, grounded on sovereignty, territorial integrity, peaceful resolution of disputes, fundamental freedoms and human rights. They reaffirmed the importance of working together with regional partners and organizations, notably the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). They reaffirmed their thorough support for ASEAN centrality and unity. They reaffirmed their intention to work to support Pacific Island Countries’ priorities, as articulated through the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.

    As they seek constructive and stable relations with China, they recognized the importance of direct and candid engagement to express concerns and manage differences. They reaffirmed their readiness to cooperate with China to address global challenges. They expressed their deep concern at the China’s support to Russia. They called on China to step up efforts to promote international peace and security, and to press Russia to stop its military aggression and immediately, completely and unconditionally withdraw its troops from Ukraine. They encouraged China to support a comprehensive, just and lasting peace based on territorial integrity and the principles and purposes of the UN Charter, including through its direct dialogue with Ukraine. They also expressed their deep concern at China’s ongoing support for Russia’s defense industrial base, which is enabling Russia to maintain its illegal war in Ukraine and has significant and broad-based security implications. They called on China to cease the transfer of dual-use materials, including weapons components and equipment, that are inputs for Russia’s defense sector.

    They recognized the importance of China in global trade. However, they expressed their concerns about China’s persistent industrial targeting and comprehensive non-market policies and practices that are leading to global spillovers, market distortions and harmful overcapacity in a growing range of sectors, undermining our workers, industries and economic resilience and security, as well as impacting on currencies. The G7 members are not decoupling or turning inwards. They are de-risking and diversifying supply chains where necessary and appropriate and fostering resilience to economic coercion. They called on China to refrain from adopting export control measures, particularly on critical minerals, that could lead to significant supply chain disruptions. Together with partners, the G7 members will invest in building their respective industrial capacities, promote diversified and resilient supply chains, and reduce critical dependencies and vulnerabilities.

    They remained seriously concerned about the situation in the East and South China Seas and reiterated their strong opposition to any unilateral attempt to change the status quo by force or coercion. They reaffirmed that there is no legal basis for China’s expansive maritime claims in the South China Sea, and they reiterated their opposition to China’s militarization and coercive and intimidation activities in the South China Sea. They re-emphasized the universal and unified character of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and reaffirmed UNCLOS’s important role in setting out the legal framework that governs all activities in the oceans and the seas. They reiterated that the award rendered by the Arbitral Tribunal on 12 July 2016 is a significant milestone, which is legally binding upon the parties to those proceedings and a useful basis for peacefully resolving disputes between the parties. They reiterated their strong opposition to China’s dangerous use of coast guard and maritime militia in the South China Sea and its repeated obstruction of countries’ high seas freedom of navigation. They expressed deep concern about the dangerous and obstructive maneuvers, including water cannons and ramming, by the China Coast Guard and maritime militia against Philippines vessels.

    The G7 members reaffirmed that maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait is indispensable to international security and prosperity, and called for the peaceful resolution of cross-Strait issues. There is no change in the basic position of the G7 members on Taiwan, including stated One-China policies. They supported Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organizations as a member where statehood is not a prerequisite and as an observer or guest where it is.

    They remained concerned by the human rights situation in China, including in Xinjiang and Tibet. They are also worried about the crackdown on Hong Kong’s autonomy and independent institutions, and ongoing erosion of rights and freedoms. They urged China and the Hong Kong authorities to act in accordance with their international commitments and applicable legal obligations.

    The G7 members strongly condemned North Korea’s continuing expansion of its unlawful nuclear and ballistic missile programs in violation of multiple UNSC resolutions and its continuous destabilizing activities. They reiterated their call for the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and demanded that North Korea abandons all its nuclear weapons, existing nuclear programs, and any other WMD and ballistic missile programs in a complete, verifiable and irreversible manner, in accordance with all relevant UNSC resolutions. They called on North Korea to return to dialogue to promote peace and stability in the Korean peninsula. They urged all UN Member States to fully implement all relevant UN Security Council resolutions. They reiterated their deep disappointment with Russia’s veto last March on the mandate renewal of the UNSC 1718 Committee Panel of Experts.

    They condemned in the strongest possible terms the increasing military cooperation between North Korea and Russia, including North Korea’s export and Russia’s procurement of North Korean ballistic missiles and munitions in direct violation of relevant UNSCRs, as well as Russia’s use of these missiles and munitions against Ukraine. They are also deeply concerned about the potential for any transfer of nuclear or ballistic missiles-related technology to North Korea, in violation of the relevant UNSCRs. They urged Russia and North Korea to immediately cease all such activities and abide by relevant UNSCRs. They urged North Korea to respect human rights, facilitate access for international humanitarian organizations, and resolve the abductions issue immediately.

    They called on China not to conduct or condone activities aimed at undermining the security and safety of our communities and the integrity of our democratic institutions, and to act in strict accordance with its obligations under the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations.

    7. Regional Issues

    Venezuela

    The G7 members reiterated their deep concern about the situation in Venezuela, following the vote on July 28.

    They emphasized that the announced victory of Maduro lacks credibility and democratic legitimacy, as indicated by reports of the UN Panel of Experts and independent international observers as well as data published by the opposition. They underscored that it is essential for electoral results to be complete and independently verified to ensure respect for the will of the Venezuelan people.

    They expressed their outrage for the arrest warrant and constant threats to the security of Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, who decided to seek refuge in Spain. According to the above-mentioned independent reports, Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia appears to have won the most votes.

    They urged Venezuelan representatives to cease all human rights violations and abuses, arbitrary detentions and widespread restrictions on fundamental freedoms, particularly affecting the political opposition, human rights defenders, and representatives of independent media and civil society. They called for the release of all political prisoners and for a path to freedom and democracy for the people of Venezuela.

    They urged the international community to keep Venezuela high on the diplomatic agenda and they expressed their support for efforts by regional partners to facilitate the Venezuelan-led democratic and peaceful transition that the people of Venezuela have clearly chosen in the polls.

    Haiti

    The G7 members expressed their determination to continue supporting Haitian institutions – including the Transitional Presidential Council (CPT) and the Government of Prime Minister Conille – in their commitment to create the necessary conditions of general security and stability for the convening, by February 2026, of free and fair elections. The expression of popular will would set the foundation for the full restoration of democracy and the rule of law in Haiti.

    They also expressed full support to the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission, which is providing critical support to the Haitian National Police as they counter criminal gangs engaged in illicit trafficking and inflicting brutal violence upon the population.

    The G7 members emphasized the importance of continued support to the MSS mission through financial contributions to the UN Trust Fund as well as contributions in kind. They expressed their strong appreciation for the commitment of the Government of Kenya – which has already deployed 380 personnel on the ground – to support the Haitian National Police in restoring peace and security.

    They called on all countries that have committed to deploy their contingents to the MSS mission to do so as soon as possible, to consolidate the mission and its fundamental role in the Country. They called on Haiti’s partners to continue their humanitarian assistance to the Haitian people and to expedite their financial and in-kind contributions to the MSS mission to help ensure that the mission is resourced for success.

    They called also on the United Nations Security Council to consider a UN Peace Operation to maintain the security gains of the Haiti National Police and the MSS mission for holding free and fair elections and called on the Secretary-General accordingly to provide support.

    The G7 members welcomed the work of the G7 Working Group on Haiti in monitoring institutional, political, social and security developments in Haiti, with a view to supporting the stabilization of the country and the restoration of full democratic governance.

    Libya

    The G7 members reiterated their unwavering commitment to Libyan stability, sovereignty, independence and unity. They expressed deep concern about recent developments in the country, in particular those involving the leadership of the Central Bank of Libya and the High Council of State, which show the fragility and unsustainability of the present status quo. They urged relevant Libyan parties to rapidly reach the necessary compromises to begin to restore the institutional integrity of the Central Bank of Libya and its standing with the international financial community. They called on Libyan political actors to refrain from taking harmful unilateral actions that create further political tension and fragmentation and make the country vulnerable to harmful foreign interference.

    They noted advances made in the organization of local elections and they called for a free, fair and inclusive participation of all Libyans. It is now imperative to relaunch a Libyan-led and Libyan-owned political process facilitated by the UN towards free and fair presidential and parliamentary elections.

    They expressed their support and commended the efforts made by UNSMIL officer in charge Stephanie Koury in support of the stabilization of Libya. They called on the Secretary General to appoint a new Special Representative without delay.

    Sudan

    The G7 members reiterated their grave concern over the ongoing fighting, mass-displacement and famine in Sudan.

    They condemned the serious human rights violations and abuses against the civilian population, including widespread sexual and gender-based violence, as well as international humanitarian law violations by both sides to the conflict. They called for an immediate end to the escalating violence, which is creating further displacement, and urged the warring parties to ensure the protection of civilians. They reiterated their commitment to holding accountable all those responsible for violations of international law in Sudan.

    They condemned the emergence of famine in Sudan as a direct consequence of efforts to restrict access of humanitarian actors. They noted recent progress in relation to the re-opening of the Chad-Sudan Adre border crossing, in the wake of the Paris Conference and of the Geneva talks. They called for full, rapid, safe, and unhindered humanitarian access both into Sudan and across lines of conflict so aid can reach all those in need.

    They urged all parties to cease hostilities immediately and to engage in serious negotiations aimed at achieving a lasting ceasefire, humanitarian access and protection of civilians without pre-conditions.

    They called on external actors to refrain from fueling the conflict, to respect the UN arms embargo on Darfur, and to play a responsible role in resolving the crisis.

    They welcomed mediation efforts by regional and international actors and organizations to facilitate a durable peace for the country.

    Inclusive, national dialogue, aimed at restoring democracy, re-establishing and strengthening the civilian and representative institutions after the end of the conflict, is a prerequisite for lasting peace. The G7 Members emphasized that it is necessary for representatives of Sudanese civil society, including women, to be fully engaged in the reflection on the political future of the country.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs and Centre for Food Safety remind public not to illegal import regulated food

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Hong Kong Customs and Centre for Food Safety remind public not to illegal import regulated food
    Hong Kong Customs and Centre for Food Safety remind public not to illegal import regulated food
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         ​Hong Kong Customs and the Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) today (September 25) held a joint press conference to report on the latest number of illegal import of regulated food (such as raw meat, poultry and eggs) cases and to remind members of the public not to illegally bring regulated food into Hong Kong.     In the first eight months this year, Customs detected about 1 300 cases of illegal imports of regulated food through passenger channel at land boundary control points, exceeding the 1 019 cases in the year of 2023 and doubling that of the same period last year. This reflects that there has been a significant increasing trend in such cases recently.     The CFS said members of the public who illegally bring regulated food into Hong Kong will not only be prosecuted, but also need to be aware that these foods may be improperly stored during travel, such as at an improper temperature or unhygienic packaging, leading to the growth of pathogenic bacteria and increased food safety and personal health risks.     With the National Day Golden Week approaching, Customs and the CFS reminded members of the public not to illegally bring regulated food from the Mainland or overseas into Hong Kong for the sake of convenience, so as to avoid criminal liability and health risks. Meat and egg products not fully cooked and raw meat products in any forms of packaging (including vacuum packed or tinfoil) are all subject to the control of relevant regulations. Customs and CFS officers will distribute leaflets at different land boundary control points before and during the holiday to remind inbound travellers to abide the relevant regulations.      In addition, according to the Imported Game, Meat, Poultry and Eggs Regulations (Cap. 132AK), it is an offence to bring any game, meat, poultry or eggs into Hong Kong without a health certificate issued by an issuing entity of the place of origin and/or without prior written permission granted by the FEHD. An offender shall be liable on conviction to a fine of $50,000 and to imprisonment for six months.     Members of the public may report any suspected smuggling activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 2545 6182 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).

     
    Ends/Wednesday, September 25, 2024Issued at HKT 19:40

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Lam Sai-hung attends transport forum

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Transport & Logistics Lam Sai-hung today attended the Global Sustainable Transport Forum (2024), hosted by the Ministry of Transport in Beijing.

    This year’s forum, themed “Sustainable Transport: Logistics Connecting the World”, is focused on topics including global governance, connectivity, common development, innovation-driven development and “eco-sound” development.

    Mr Lam participated in the forum’s opening ceremony and a plenary session this morning. In the afternoon, he delivered a speech at a thematic session titled “Connectivity – Strengthening Cooperation in Governance & Emergency Response, & Building Resilient International Logistics & Supply Chains”. In the speech, he outlined the need to strengthen the resilience of global logistics supply chains in four directions, namely building extensive networks, upgrading technologies, exchanging information and deepening co-operation.

    The transport chief said: “The international order is constantly changing, making it more important than ever to strengthen the resilience of logistics supply chains. We must construct a comprehensive and extensive transportation network to ensure the logistics network has adequate responsiveness and endurance.

    “Continuous improvements to the technology level of the logistics industry, promotion of supply chain digitisation, seamless connections between various aspects, as well as the continuous strengthening of regional logistics co-operation will help enhance the resilience of logistics supply chains.”

    Mr Lam then attended a ministers’ forum titled “Global Governance – Fostering a Global Sustainable Transport Partnership”, in which he exchanged views with representatives from the transport authorities and related enterprises of various countries and regions.

    He then met Vice Minister of Transport Li Yang and briefed him on developments in Hong Kong’s aviation and maritime sectors, and on usage of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge and the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Express Rail Link.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Understanding Mosquito-Borne Diseases in Connecticut

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Despite the gradual arrival of fall, mosquitos are still active in our state. Paulo Verardi, professor of virology and vaccinology and head of the Department of Pathobiology and Veterinary Science, shares information that can keep Connecticut residents safe from mosquito-borne diseases.

    What types of mosquito-borne diseases are we seeing in Connecticut?

    Mosquito-borne diseases are spread by the bite of infected mosquitoes. In Connecticut, one would immediately think of West Nile virus, by far the most common mosquito-borne virus in the region. However, we have

    additional viruses transmitted by mosquitoes, such as Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) virus, Jamestown Canyon virus, and Cache Valley virus, that luckily are less common. Sometimes Connecticut has imported cases of additional mosquito-borne diseases, such as dengue fever and Zika virus disease. These are acquired when people travel to areas where the virus is circulating, get bitten by an infected mosquito, and then travel back to Connecticut. If you are traveling outside the country in areas like the Caribbean and Central or South America, you should also be aware of chikungunya virus, yellow fever virus, and Oropouche virus, to name a few.

    Why are these diseases appearing more frequently in the state?

    Cases are linked to the proliferation of mosquitoes, which is driven by several factors including precipitation and temperature patterns, as well as alterations in these patterns. Climatic changes seem to also be impacting the distribution of these diseases, especially because warmer temperatures can promote a wider geographical range of disease-transmitting mosquitoes.

    West Nile virus has been in Connecticut since 1999, when it was introduced in New York City, so it is relatively new. On the other hand, evidence of EEE in Massachusetts dates back almost 200 years, and thus it is considered a local disease. West Nile cases in people are not uncommon during every mosquito season, but EEE seems to be impactful only every few years, such as in 2019 when a larger outbreak last occurred.

    West Nile and EEE viruses are actually maintained in nature in reservoir hosts, typically birds, and therefore these are considered zoonotic diseases. This means that the interplay amongst people, animals, plants, and the environment is a major factor determining the prevalence and transmission of these diseases, in what we call the One Health concept.

    What times of year do we need to be concerned about mosquito-borne diseases?

    We ought to be concerned any time of the year when mosquitoes are up and about. Generally, we think of the hot summer months, but transmission can start in the spring and last well into the fall season. A good example is EEE, as cases typically peak in late summer, but transmission can occur as late as October.

    What are the symptoms of these diseases?

    Diseases like West Nile and EEE are caused by viruses, so flu-like symptoms are typical:  fever, headache, fatigue, and in some instances rashes. Most people may not even feel sick at all, while a few others may end up developing inflammation of the brain (encephalitis) or of the membranes around the brain and the spinal cord (meningitis), leading to severe disease symptoms.

    What should someone do if they are sick?

    First, never assume that you may just have a cold, and pay attention to the severity of your symptoms. Consult a health care provider if symptoms do not improve, particularly if you have high fever and headache. Go immediately to an emergency room if symptoms become severe and you suspect any neurological involvement. The key is to be vigilant and proactive.

    It is noteworthy that horses with EEE are severely affected with up to 95% mortality (about half that rate for West Nile fever), and routine vaccination of horses for both diseases is recommended.

    How dangerous/deadly are these diseases?

    Fortunately, for most of us infections are self-contained. Our immune system can keep the invading viruses in check, and all you may experience are mild flu-like symptoms, if any. But symptoms can be more severe and can worsen very quickly. Pay attention to any rashes or severe symptoms, such as high fever, intense headache, stiffness of the neck, and other neurological problems. Encephalitis and meningitis are dangerous and life-threating complications, so a visit to the emergency room is necessary at the onset of neurological signs.

    What actions are state and local governments taking to help?

    Connecticut’s Department of Public Health (DPH) and Department of Agriculture (DoAg) are monitoring the situation in Connecticut and surrounding states closely. The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES) is doing surveillance of mosquitoes, and the Connecticut Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (CVMDL) at UConn is monitoring wild and domestic animals (mammals and birds). In some cases, agencies may decide to curtail outdoor activities in certain areas at dusk, as Connecticut did in 2019 when we had high activity of EEE in Eastern Connecticut CT and neighboring states, and mosquito spraying may be recommended in limited areas by the Connecticut’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP).

    How can Connecticut residents protect themselves and help stop the spread of these diseases?

    By preventing mosquito bites:

    • Avoid outdoor activities during dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active
    • Use approved insect repellents
    • Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants when outside
    • Keep mosquitoes out of your house with the appropriate use of window and door screens.

    One can also treat clothing and gear with permethrin, which will help repel both mosquitoes and ticks. Vaccines against some mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue, yellow fever, chikungunya, and Japanese encephalitis are available for people traveling to high-risk areas. Visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Traveler’s Health site for further information.

    This work relates to CAHNR’s Strategic Vision area focused on Enhancing Health and Well-Being Locally, Nationally, and Globally.

    Follow UConn CAHNR on social media

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bringing Emphasis on Lab Quality to the World

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    As an assistant professor of pathology and laboratory medicine, Anu Maharjan is driven to share her knowledge with UConn medical students. As a volunteer with the Association for Diagnostics and Laboratory Medicine, she is driven to share her knowledge clinical labs around the world.

    Maharjan, who also is the director of UConn Health’s Core Laboratory, spent part of her summer in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, where she led three topics at the ADLM’s quality control workshop.

    “These workshops help us understand how laboratory medicine is set up in different parts of the world, and the host country also gets information about how U.S. laboratories function in terms of regulation, quality, and education,” Maharjan says. “The idea of these workshops is to ensure that laboratories improve their quality programs so that their patient test results are reliable.”

    UConn Health Core Laboratory Director Anu Maharjan presents at the Association for Diagnostics and Laboratory Medicine’ quality control workshop in Mongolia, July 2024. (Photo provided by Anu Maharjan)

    Maharjan’s presentations were titled “Troubleshooting and Corrective Actions for Quality Control Failures,” “Risk-based Approach for Quality Control,” and “Quality Control Case Studies.” She shared her first-hand experience with a quality control tool known as “moving average,” a method of recalculating data in real time as additional data becomes available, and notes that both the labs there and our labs can learn from each other.

    “I was happy to share our flowchart in one of the presentations on how to troubleshoot when we receive alerts for moving average,” Maharjan says. “I was able to show some of the pictures from Mongolia and show the enthusiasm that us laboratorians have throughout the world to make laboratory tests more effective and accurate. I was able to share with our supervisors here that the Mongolian laboratorians have similar pain points like we do.”

    Another takeaway from the workshop how regulations governing lab medicine vary around the world. For example, lab medicine in the U.S. is subject to rules and regulations of the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments through the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, which requires frequent proficiency testing to earn and maintain accreditation. Maharjan says in Mongolia, only the largest labs participate in proficiency testing. She suggests a greater commitment to quality initiatives globally would help the laboratory medicine community get closer to the goal of standardization.

    “Clinical laboratorians are usually the unnoticeable health care staff that are working to provide reliable test results,” Maharjan says. “Communities in laboratory medicine throughout the world want to advance health care and that starts with providing better quality in terms of laboratory testing.”

    The ADLM is an international association of more than 70,000 clinical lab professionals, physicians, researchers and business leaders focused on achieving better health through laboratory medicine.

    A member of the ADLM since 2017, Maharjan serves as chair of the group’s New York Metro Local Section and is a member of the Asia Pacific ADLM Global Laboratory Quality Initiative, which is what led to the workshop in Mongolia.

    “We emphasize the value of laboratory medicine and foster scientific enhancement in underserved regions of the world,” Maharjan says. “The focus of our workshop in Mongolia was to provide practical approaches to understanding the subject of laboratory quality.

    “Presenting what I know about practical approaches to laboratory quality control to another part of the world was humbling and satisfying at the same time. In addition, I am originally from Nepal, and the idea of being able to provide an outreach in Asia-Pacific region really drew me into this group.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: Breeze Holdings Acquisition Corp. Announces Definitive Agreement to Merge with YD Biopharma Limited

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    YD Biopharma is a Clinical-Stage Biopharmaceutical Company Focusing on Cancer Prevention Diagnostics and Seeking to Transform the Treatment of a Wide Spectrum of Diseases

    Pro Forma for the Transaction, Combined Company is Expected to Have an Estimated Enterprise Value of Nearly $700 Million

    The Proposed Merger is Expected to Close by Early 2025; After Closing, the Combined Company is Expected to be Listed on Nasdaq Capital Market

    YD Biopharma has Recently Obtained Patents, Technology, and U.S. Authorization for Core Methylation Detection of Pancreatic Cancer, Along with Entering into an Agreement to Acquire Licenses for Breast Cancer Detection Upon the Closing of the Merger

    IRVING, Texas, Sept. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Breeze Holdings Acquisition Corp. (OTCQX: BRZH, BRZHR, BRZHW) (“Breeze” or the “Company”), a publicly traded special purpose acquisition company, has entered into a definitive agreement to merge with YD Biopharma Limited (“YD Biopharma”), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focusing on cancer prevention medical diagnostics and the development of exosome-based therapeutics with the potential to transform the treatment of a wide spectrum of diseases with high unmet medical need. Following the closing, the combined company is expected to be listed on the Nasdaq Capital Market.

    Using Technology to Detect Health Problems Early On
    YD Biopharma specializes in the biopharmaceutical business and serves as a supplier of drugs and medical materials for clinical trials. In 2015, YD Biopharma was appointed as a clinical testing drug supplier by Novartis and has since expanded its offerings to include development and supply of ancillary products post-launch. YD Biopharma’s mission is to create a cancer-free world through advancements in biotechnology.

    More recently, YD Biopharma obtained patent and technology authorization from 3D Global Biotech Inc. (“3D Biotech”) to pioneer the application of corneal mesenchymal stem cells and their exosomes for treating eye diseases. YD Biopharma has introduced new advanced drugs and treatments for conditions such as dry eye disease, glaucoma, and corneal repair. YD Biopharma aims to optimize the treatment market for eye diseases by distribution through pharmacies, optometrists, and other channels.

    Earlier this year, YD Biopharma obtained patents, technology and U.S. market authorization from EG Biomed Taiwan for core methylation detection of pancreatic cancer with high sensitivity, specificity and accuracy. This partnership has led to the establishment of an independent laboratory in the U.S. dedicated to pancreatic cancer early detection and monitoring technology that marks a significant expansion of YD Biopharma’s research and development capabilities to collaborate with hospitals, insurance companies and pharmaceutical companies to reach new patients.

    YD Biopharma has also recently negotiated related authorizations for breast cancer detection to further expand the Company’s product offerings. YD Biopharma is in the process of acquiring licenses from EG BioMed Taiwan for advanced breast cancer detection technology in the U.S., E.U., and Asia-Pacific that has high sensitivity, specificity and accuracy. The acquisition of the licenses for EG Biomed’s breast cancer detection technology in the U.S., E.U., and Asia-Pacific is expected to be consummated simultaneously with the closing of the merger with Breeze.

    Management Commentary
    Dr. Ethan Shen, the Founder, Chairman and CEO of YD Biopharma, has an extensive background in the pharmaceutical industry having worked at a well-known global pharmaceutical company. Inspired by his father’s struggle with cancer and subsequent passing, Dr. Shen is dedicated to eradicating cancer and helping people to avoid chronic and painful treatments through early detection.

    Dr. Shen stated the following regarding the proposed transaction, “I’m pleased to announce the next phase of our strategy as we embark on a public listing in the U.S. through the proposed business combination with Breeze. Since our founding in 2013, we’ve made significant strides in expanding our capabilities through organic innovation, licensing agreements, and notable strategic partnerships. We have a strategic roadmap in place for accelerated growth and a compelling story to tell in the U.S. market as we aim to deliver health problem detection at an earlier stage than ever before through minimal intervention.”

    J. Douglas Ramsey, Ph.D., Chairman and CEO of Breeze, commented, “From day one, it has been our mission at Breeze to find a company with innovative and disruptive technology that has the potential to deliver significant growth to our shareholders. We are highly optimistic about the proposed business combination with YD Biopharma, a company that we believe is a true outlier in the biotech industry with strong growth potential in a variety of healthcare markets. We are working closely with their team to expeditiously close the transaction by early 2025 and move forward with YD Biopharma as a publicly traded company in the U.S.”

    YD Biopharma Key Investment Highlights

    • Proven Capabilities Across a Broad Spectrum of Solutions: YD Biopharma has an extensive suite of solutions ranging from ophthalmology cellular drug development to pancreatic and breast cancer diagnostics to nutritional product sales.
    • Notable Strategic Partnerships, Offering Validation and Growth Potential: YD Biopharma is a clinical testing drug supplier for Novartis, a top five global pharmaceutical company, as well as having licensing partnerships with EG BioMed for pancreatic cancer detection and 3D Global Biotech to develop treatment for eye disorders.
    • Proprietary Technology Supported by Licensing Agreements and IP Portfolio: Multi-decade, exclusive licensing agreements and owned, patented technology provides YD Biopharma with significant competitive first-mover advantage in each of its clinical markets.
    • Large and Underserved Markets for Each Solution Showcase Untapped Growth Potential: Multi-billion-dollar global market sizes and high single digit CAGRs over the next decade provide significant growth potential for YD Biopharma’s solutions.
    • Strong Leadership Team with Deep Expertise in Biotech and Finance: YD Biopharma has a founder-led management team with experience in new drug development, medical-grade health product development, pharmacy channel development, and financial management and accounting.

    Transaction Overview
    Under the terms of the business combination agreement, Breeze and YD Biopharma will each merge into wholly-owned subsidiaries of a newly formed Cayman holding company expected to be named “YD Biopharma Holdings Limited” and is anticipated to be listed on the Nasdaq Capital Market.

    Assuming no redemptions, the combined company will have an estimated post-transaction enterprise value of $694 million, consisting of an estimated equity value of $715 million, $21.0 million in cash and no debt. Cash proceeds raised will consist of Breeze’s $10.1 million cash in trust (before redemptions and payment of any transaction expenses) and $15 million in anticipated new capital.

    YD Biopharma intends to use the proceeds from the transaction to expand production and continue development, approval and launch of new technologies.

    The transaction has been unanimously approved by the boards of directors of both YD Biopharma and Breeze. It is expected to close by early 2025, subject to regulatory and stockholder approvals, and other customary closing conditions. Additional information may be found in the Current Report on Form 8-K that was filed by Breeze Holdings today with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

    Upon completion of the transaction, YD Biopharma will continue to be led by Founder, Chairman, and CEO Dr. Ethan Shen. Wu Cheng-fend will serve as Chief Medical Officer, and May Tsai will serve as Chief Business Officer.

    Advisors
    ArentFox Schiff LLP and Ogier are acting as legal advisors to YD Biopharma. I-Bankers Securities, Inc. is acting as financial advisor to Breeze Holdings. Woolery & Co. PLLC is acting as legal advisor to Breeze Holdings.

    About YD Biopharma
    YD Biopharma Limited is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focusing on cancer prevention medical diagnostics and the development of exosome-based therapeutics with the potential to transform the treatment of a wide spectrum of diseases with high unmet medical need. Through continuous effort and innovation, the Company has also become a recognized supplier of clinical trial drugs and has begun developing and supplying post-market auxiliary products.

    For more information, please visit www.yd-biopharma.com.

    About Breeze Holdings Acquisition Corp.
    Breeze Holdings is a blank check company organized for the purpose of effecting a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, stock purchase, recapitalization, reorganization, or other similar business combinations with one or more businesses or entities.

    Additional Information and Where to Find It
    This press release relates to a proposed business combination transaction involving Breeze Holdings and YD Biopharma. In connection with the proposed transaction, a newly-formed Cayman exempted company expected to be named “YD Biopharma Holdings Limited” (“YD Holdings”) intends to file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) a registration statement on Form F-4 that will include a proxy statement of Breeze and that also will constitute a prospectus of YD Holdings with respect to the ordinary shares of YD Holdings to be issued in the proposed transaction (the “Proxy Statement/Prospectus”). This document is not a substitute for the Proxy Statement/Prospectus. The definitive Proxy Statement/Prospectus (if and when available) will be delivered to Breeze Holdings’ and YD Biopharma’s stockholders. Breeze Holdings may also file other relevant documents regarding the proposed transaction with the SEC. BEFORE MAKING ANY VOTING OR INVESTMENT DECISION, INVESTORS AND SECURITY HOLDERS OF BREEZE HOLDINGS AND YD BIOPHARMA AND OTHER INTERESTED PARTIES ARE URGED TO READ THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT, PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS AND ALL OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS THAT ARE FILED OR WILL BE FILED WITH THE SEC IN CONNECTION WITH THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION, INCLUDING ANY AMENDMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS TO THESE DOCUMENTS, CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT BREEZE HOLDINGS, YD HOLDINGS, YD BIOPHARMA, THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION AND RELATED MATTERS.

    Investors and security holders of Breeze Holdings and YD Biopharma may obtain free copies of the Registration Statement and Proxy Statement/Prospectus (if and when available) and other documents that are filed or will be filed with the SEC by Breeze Holdings through the website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov. Copies of the documents filed with the SEC by Breeze Holdings will be available free of charge at Breeze Holdings Acquisition Corp., 955 W. John Carpenter Fwy., Suite 100-929, Irving, TX 75039, attention: J. Douglas Ramsey.

    Participants in the Solicitation
    Breeze Holdings, YD Biopharma and certain of their respective directors and executive officers may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from the stockholders of Breeze Holdings and YD Biopharma in respect of the proposed transaction. Information about Breeze Holdings’ directors and executive officers and their ownership of Breeze Holdings common stock is set forth in Breeze Holdings’ filings with the SEC, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K/A for the year ended December 31, 2023 filed with the SEC on April 25, 2024 (the “Annual Report”). To the extent that holdings of Breeze Holdings’ securities have changed since the amounts included in the Annual Report, such changes have been or will be reflected on Statements of Change in Ownership of Form 4 filed with the SEC. Other information regarding the participants in the proxy solicitation and a description of their direct and indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, will be contained in the Proxy Statement/Prospectus and other relevant materials to be filed with the SEC in respect of the proposed transaction when they become available. You may obtain free copies of these documents as described in the preceding paragraph.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including, among other things, statements regarding the anticipated benefits and impact of the proposed transaction on the combined company’s business and future financial and operating results, the anticipated timing of closing of the proposed transaction, the anticipated growth of the industries and markets in which YD Biopharma competes, the success and customer acceptance of YD Biopharma’s product and service offerings and other aspects of YD Biopharma’s operations, plans, objectives, opportunities, expectations or operating results, the expected ownership structure of the combined company and the likelihood and ability of the parties to successfully consummate the proposed transaction. Words such as “may,” “should,” “will,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “estimated,” “target,” “project,” and similar phrases or words of similar meaning that denote future expectations or intent regarding the combined company’s financial results, operations and other matters are intended to identify forward-looking statements. You should not rely upon forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. Such forward-looking statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of management and are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive risks, uncertainties and other factors, both known and unknown, which are difficult to predict and generally beyond our control and that may cause actual results and the timing of future events to differ materially from the results and timing of future events anticipated by the forward-looking statements in this press release, including but not limited to: (i) the ability of the parties to complete the proposed transaction within the time frame anticipated or at all, which may adversely impact the price of Breeze Holdings’ securities; (ii) the failure to realize the anticipated benefits of the proposed transaction or those benefits taking longer than anticipated to be realized; (iii) the risk that the proposed transaction may not be completed by Breeze Holdings’ business combination deadline and the potential failure to obtain further extensions of the business combination deadline if sought by Breeze Holdings; (iv) the failure to satisfy the conditions to the consummation of the proposed transaction, including the adoption of the definitive merger agreement by the stockholders of Breeze Holdings or YD Biopharma, the receipt of any required governmental or regulatory approvals or the failure to meet the Nasdaq listing standards in connection with the closing of the proposed transaction; (v) the lack of a third party valuation in determining whether or not to pursue the proposed transaction; (vi) the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstance that could give rise to the termination of the definitive merger agreement; (vii) the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic or related governmental or regulatory orders ; (viii) the effect of the announcement or pendency of the proposed transaction on YD Biopharma’s business relationships, performance and business generally; (ix) risks that the proposed transaction disrupts current plans and operations of YD Biopharma and any potential difficulties in YD Biopharma employee retention as a result of the proposed transaction; (x) the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against YD Biopharma or Breeze Holdings related to the definitive merger agreement or the proposed transaction or any product liability or regulatory lawsuits or proceedings relating to YD Biopharma’s products or services; (xi) the ability to maintain the listing of YD Holdings’ securities on the Nasdaq Capital Market after the closing of the proposed transaction; (xii) potential volatility in the price of Breeze Holdings’ securities due to a variety of factors, including changes in the competitive and highly regulated industries in which YD Biopharma operates, variations in performance across competitors, changes in laws and regulations affecting YD Biopharma’s business, and changes in the combined company’s capital structure; (xiii) the ability to implement business plans, identify and realize additional opportunities and achieve forecasts and other expectations after the completion of the proposed transaction; (xiv) the risk of downturns and the possibility of rapid change in the highly competitive industries in which YD Biopharma operates or the markets that YD Biopharma targets; (xv) the inability of YD Biopharma and its current and future collaborators to successfully develop and commercialize YD Biopharma’s products and services in the expected time frame or at all; (xvi) the risk that the combined company may never achieve or sustain profitability or may need to raise additional capital to execute its business plan, which may not be available on acceptable terms or at all; and (xvii) the costs of the proposed transaction. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are also subject to additional risks, uncertainties and factors, including those described in Breeze Holdings’ most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other documents filed or to be filed with the SEC by Breeze Holdings from time to time. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements as a predictor of future performance as projected financial information and other information are based on estimates and assumptions that are inherently subject to various significant risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond our control. The forward-looking statements included in this press release are made only as of the date hereof, and we disclaim any intention or obligation to update any forward-looking statements as a result of developments occurring after the date hereof. Forecasts and estimates regarding YD Biopharma’s industry and end markets are based on sources we believe to be reliable, however there can be no assurance these forecasts and estimates will prove accurate in whole or in part. Annualized, pro forma, projected and estimated numbers are used for illustrative purposes only, are not forecasts and may not reflect actual results.

    No Offer or Solicitation
    This press release is for informational purposes only and is not intended to and shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to sell or to buy any securities or a solicitation of any proxy, consent, vote or approval with respect to any securities in respect of the proposed transaction and is not a substitute for the Proxy Statement/Prospectus or any other document that Breeze Holdings may file with the SEC or send to Breeze Holdings’ or YD Biopharma’s stockholders in connection with the proposed transaction. No offer, sale, issuance or transfer of securities shall be made in any jurisdiction in which such offer, sale, issuance or transfer would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction.

    Contacts:

    YD Biopharma Limited
    Bob Chiu
    bobc95@udn-pharm.com

    Breeze Holdings Acquisition Corp.
    Investor Relations
    Cody Slach and Cody Cree
    Gateway Group

    (949) 574-3860
    BREZ@gateway-grp.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Europe: VATICAN/GENERAL AUDIENCE – Lebanon: the international community should “make every effort to stop this terrible escalation”

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Wednesday, 25 September 2024

    Vatican Media

    Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – “I am saddened by the news from Lebanon, where in recent days the intense bombings have claimed many victims and caused destruction,” said Francis during the general audience in front of thousands of pilgrims and tourists. “I hope that the international community will make every effort to stop this terrible escalation. It is unacceptable. I express my closeness to the Lebanese people, who have already suffered too much in the recent past.”And let us pray for everyone, for all the peoples who suffer as a result of war: let us not forget tormented Ukraine, Myanmar, Palestine, Israel, Sudan, all the suffering peoples. Let us pray for peace,” added the Pope, who reiterated during today’s 500th general audience of his pontificate that one should not speak to the devil. “The strongest proof of the existence of Satan is found not in sinners or the possessed, but in the saints,” the Pope explained. He continued the cycle of catechisms on the theme “The Spirit and the Bride” and today focused on the role of the Holy Spirit as “our ally in the fight against evil”.”It is true that the devil is present and working in certain extreme and “inhuman” forms of evil and wickedness that we see around us,” said Pope Francis. “But by this route, though, it is practically impossible to reach, in individual cases, the certainty that it is truly him, given that we cannot know with precision where his action ends and our own evil begins. This is why the Church is so prudent and so rigorous in performing exorcism, unlike what happens, unfortunately, in certain films!”.”It is in the life of the saints, precisely there, that the devil is forced to come out into the open, to place himself “against the light,” he stressed. All the saints, all the great believers testify to their struggle with “this obscure reality”and one cannot honestly assume that they were all deluded or mere victims of the prejudices of their time. He was more skeptical about the attempt to deduce the existence of the devil from the evil in the world. “And yet our technological and secularized world is teeming with magicians, occultism, spiritualism, astrologers, sellers of spells and amulets, and unfortunately with real satanic sects.” Unfortunately, modern technology offers “countless means” to give an opportunity to the devil. “Think of online pornography, behind which there is a flourishing market: we all know this. It is the devil at work, there. And this is a very widespread phenomenon, which Christians should beware of and strongly reject.” But Christians should not be discouraged by “knowing the devil’s action in history.” “Christ overcame the devil and gave us the Holy Spirit to make His victory our own.” (F.B.) (Agenzia Fides, 25/9/2024)
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    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: FS proceeds to UK from Spain (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, continued his visit to Madrid, Spain, today (September 25, Madrid time).

         In the morning, he led a delegation of technology start-ups to attend an exchange session organised by the IESE Business School, in which the delegation’s start-ups met and connected with over 10 Spanish start-up entrepreneurs, representatives of venture capital funds, investors, and enterprises for business matching. The IESE is one of the top business schools in Europe and the world, and has close collaborations with several universities in Hong Kong, as well as with the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation and Cyberport.

         Mr Chan introduced the new advantages and new opportunities in Hong Kong and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, the policies and measures of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government in promoting innovation and technology, along with the recent flourishing development of Hong Kong’s innovation and technology ecosystem. Representatives of start-ups and investors from both economies also introduced their businesses and development strategies, with a view to enhancing mutual knowledge and understanding, and opening up more opportunities for collaboration.

         Thereafter, Mr Chan met with the Dean of the IESE Business School, Professor Franz Heukamp, to exchange views on the business environments of Hong Kong and Spain, as well as promoting academic exchanges and co-operation between the two places. Mr Chan welcomed the IESE to further leverage Hong Kong’s international academic environment, as well as convenient connections with Mainland China and Asia, to deepen exchanges with various academic institutions and businesses in Hong Kong, promoting more bilateral co-operation in education, company executive training, and other business areas. 

         Mr Chan will leave Madrid this afternoon local time, and proceed to visit London, the United Kingdom.         

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) Signs Concession Agreements with Governments of Angola and Zambia to advance Zambia Lobito Rail Project

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    NEW YORK, United States of America, September 25, 2024/APO Group/ —

    In a significant milestone for the Zambia Lobito Rail Project, Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) (www.AfricaFC.org), the continent’s leading infrastructure solutions provider, has signed concession agreements with the governments of Angola and Zambia for the financing, construction, ownership and operation of the transformational railway project. The agreements, which were signed yesterday in a ceremonial signing hosted by U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken and the Biden Administration’s G-7 Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment (PGI) on the sidelines of the 79th session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA 79), paves the way for the Corporation to spearhead and complete the development of the railway.

    Last year, AFC was appointed lead developer on the Zambia Lobito rail project in collaboration with the United States Government, the European Union, the African Development Bank and the governments of Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia. The project involves the construction of approximately 800km greenfield rail line connecting the Benguela rail line in Luacano, Angola, to the existing Zambia Railways Line in Chingola, Zambia. Once completed, the trade corridor will facilitate the efficient movement of goods and promote investments in agriculture, health, digital infrastructure, mining, and electricity access along the corridor.

    Concurrent to signing the concession agreements, AFC also signed an agreement to receive US$ 2 million grant funding from the United States Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) (https://apo-opa.co/3zINnnM), towards completion of the environmental and social studies for the project. The grant, which marks the first time the Corporation will tap into USTDA funding, will facilitate comprehensive Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIA) to ensure that the Zambia Lobito Rail Project aligns with international best practices and environmental standards.

    AFC will play the pivotal role of lead developer on the rail project which not only offers an efficient evacuation route for minerals and metals from the region but helps establish a trade corridor across Africa from the Port of Lobito on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean to the Port of Dar es Salam in Tanzania on the coast of the Indian Ocean, facilitating global and intra-African trade. The railway is expected to create economic benefit of approximately $3 billion across both countries, reduce emissions by approximately 300,000 tons per year and add over 1,250 jobs across construction and operations.

    The Honourable Minister of Transport for Angola Mr Ricardo Viegas d’Abreu noted, “We are pleased to partner with Africa Finance Corporation on this transformative project which will deepen our nation’s role as a regional logistics hub, boosting trade not only with Zambia but with the rest of the world.”

    Mr Frank Tayali MP, Honourable Minister of Transport for Zambia added, “The Zambia Lobito Rail Project is an important milestone in our efforts to modernise infrastructure, enhance the competitiveness of our economy, and improve the livelihoods of our people. We look forward to partnering with Africa Finance Corporation to deliver on this groundbreaking project.”

    “The Zambia Lobito Rail Project represents a game-changing development for the region, unlocking tremendous potential for trade, industrialisation, and socio-economic growth.,” said Samaila Zubairu, President & CEO of Africa Finance Corporation. “AFC is proud to partner with the governments of Angola and Zambia to deliver worldclass rail infrastructure, which will accelerate industrial development in Africa, promote regional integration and provide a vital export route for copper and other critical minerals for the global energy transition,” he added.

    The corridor will provide an alternative strategic route to international export markets for Zambia and DRC. It will offer the shortest route for export and imports, linking key mining regions, agricultural clusters and businesses in Zambia and DRC to the Port of Lobito. It will significantly facilitate the movement of cargo from the Copperbelt and Northwestern Provinces, through Angola to the Western markets.

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI: WTW expands Asia Client Division – CRB N.A. with new China Client Division Leader for North America

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Sept. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — WTW (NASDAQ: WTW), a leading global advisory, broking, and solutions company, today announced the launch of a new China Client Division within Corporate Risk and Broking, North America (CRB NA), marking a significant milestone in the company’s strategy to expand its presence and broaden offerings focused on the Chinese market.

    The new China Client Division is part of the broader Asia Risk Division, established in December 2023, which encompasses country-specific teams for Japan, South Korea, India, and China. These particular groups were created to address the specific cultural and economic dynamics of each country, alongside their distinctive approaches to risk management in each market. All practice groups within the Asia Risk Division report to Christopher Condello, Head of the Asia Risk Division within CRB NA, who spearheads this strategic expansion and focuses on delivering innovative solutions tailored to the unique needs of Chinese clients.

    This new China client strategy includes the appointment of Jie Yan as China Client Division Leader, effective September 1, 2024. With more than a decade of industry experience, Yan brings a wealth of expertise and cultural understanding of the nuances specific to the Chinese market. She has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership and robust market knowledge aligned with driving growth and cultivating deep client relationships, making her the ideal selection to lead this new division and execute the China strategy.

    Christopher Condello, Head of the Asia Desk, CRB NA, WTW, commented, “We are excited about the opportunities this new division presents and I am confident that, under Jie’s leadership, we will be able to deliver unparalleled support and service to our Chinese clients with operations in North America. Our focus is on building a market-specific team that can deliver tailored solutions for clients in this key market.”

    About WTW

    At WTW (NASDAQ: WTW), we provide data-driven, insight-led solutions in the areas of people, risk and capital. Leveraging the global view and local expertise of our colleagues serving 140 countries and markets, we help organizations sharpen their strategy, enhance organizational resilience, motivate their workforce and maximize performance. Working shoulder to shoulder with our clients, we uncover opportunities for sustainable success—and provide perspective that moves you. Learn more at wtwco.com.

    Media Contacts

    Douglas Menelly
    Douglas.Menelly@wtwco.com  +1 (516) 972 0380

    Arnelle Sullivan
    Arnelle.Sullivan@wtwco.com  +1 (718) 208-0474

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: iHit Tech Makes Its Debut in the Southeast Asian Market, Exploring the Development Potential of Pure Quality Products with Local Vape Brands

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Sept. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — iHit Tech is excited to announce its first participation in the ANTYS New Tobacco Exhibition, representing a pivotal entry into the Southeast Asian market. This event offered a valuable opportunity for iHit Tech to connect with local brand representatives and explore the current dynamics of the Southeast Asian vape market, as well as the emerging trends for ceramic coil vaping products.

    At the exhibition, iHit Tech showcased a comprehensive range of atomization technology solutions, including the iHit Solo, iHit Dual, and iHit Pro. These innovative products collectively highlight several key advantages:

    1. Pure Atomization and Visibility: iHit solutions ensure a clean vaping experience while offering a transparent view of the atomization process, enhancing user engagement.

    2. High Burst and TPM Release: With exceptional burst capability and high Tokes Per Minute (TPM) delivery, iHit tech solutions elevate the quality of the vaping experience. Users can enjoy substantial vapor volume while savoring a richer aromatic profile.

    3. Optimal Balance of Atomization and E-liquid Supply: iHit Tech has achieved the perfect equilibrium between atomization speed and E-liquid supply, ensuring consistent performance and satisfaction.

    With these cutting-edge tech solutions, iHit Tech is at the forefront, collaborating with brand partners to deliver exceptional flavor and performance for vaping users.

    iHit Solo:
    – Type: Single Ceramic Coil Solution
    – Pod Capacity: 2-4 mL (Pod Kit) / 8-12 mL (Disposable)
    – Power Range: 5.5 – 11W
    – TPM: 7 – 13 mg/puff
    – Nicotine Delivery: Evenly released with every puff
    – Advantages: Fully atomized for excellent flavor reproduction, ensuring a satisfying vaping experience.

    iHit Dual:
    – Type: Double Ceramic Coil Solution
    – Pod Capacity: >10 mL (Pod Kit) / 10-15 mL (Disposable)
    – Power Range: 12 – 20W
    – TPM: 15 – 20 mg/puff
    – Nicotine Delivery: Double release for enhanced satisfaction
    – Advantages: High power burst capability with elevated TPM, providing a robust and flavorful vaping experience.

    iHit Pro:
    – Type: World’s Smallest Ceramic Coil with Twin-Mesh Heating Film Solution
    – Pod Capacity: 2 – 4 mL (Open Pod System)
    – Power Range: 13 – 18W
    – TPM: 13 mg/puff
    – Vapor Quality: Silky and pure vapor
    – Advantages: Features a single coil supporting two atomization modes: one shot at 13W and two shots at 18W, providing flexibility for users. Notably, the iHit Pro boasts a lifespan 3 times longer than traditional mesh cotton coils.

    As iHit Tech continues to explore opportunities in the Southeast Asian market, we are committed to collaborating with local partners to drive the development of high-quality products that meet the evolving needs of consumers.

    Hit Every Puff!

    iHit launched by SMISS as a healthcare-focused atomization technology brand. iHit and SMISS share the same vision: Leading the global intelligent atomization manufacturing and accelerate the world’s shift to healthy life.

    Contact:
    support@ihitglobal.com
    www.ihitglobal.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/307c25d4-3bae-42e7-995d-d14bb84cbc8e

    The MIL Network

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

    Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe

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

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

    Equitable Resource Development 

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

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

    UNFC and UNRMS

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

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

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

    The Role of International Centres of Excellence

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

    Harmonizing Global Resource Governance 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    MIL OSI United Nations News

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

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI: NEWTON GOLF Introduces New Gravity Putter Line, Building on Momentum from Recent Rebranding

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Gravity, the putter division of parent company NEWTON GOLF, introduces five putters in its new premium series

    CAMARILLO, CA, Sept. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NEWTON GOLF, (Nasdaq: SPGC) (“NEWTON GOLF” or the “Company”), a technology-forward golf company with a growing portfolio of golf products, including putters, golf shafts, golf grips, and other golf-related accessories, builds on its recent rebranding with the launch of three new putter models and two redesigned classics in its newly formed Gravity Premium Series (“Gravity”) of putters.

    Formerly known as Sacks Parente Golf putters, the putter line has been redesigned and rebranded as Gravity under the NEWTON GOLF umbrella, ushering in a new era with a fresh, modern aesthetic. Featuring striking red and black colors and a premium ceramic coating finish previously reserved for Tour-level putters, these models embody NEWTON GOLF’s core design principles, including the brand’s signature patented Ultra’Low Balance Point (ULBP) and Center of Gravity (CG) technology.

    The new lineup includes three new models: The Classic, the DEUCE, and the DUKE. Additionally, the DRAC and the PRISM are two models from the previous Sacks Parente brand that have been redesigned and have the new Gravity logo and colorways. The Company is also introducing a new putter shaft, Newton Tempo, which is an improved design to provide better feel and balance with the newly designed heads.

    At the core of NEWTON GOLF’s Gravity putter design is the belief that gravity truly matters.

    Technology and Innovation: Gravity and Tempo

    All of the Gravity Premium Series putters are equipped with advanced features, such as Ultra Low Balance Point and optimized Center of Gravity. This ensures that golfers experience improved tempo by placing the weight of the putter predominantly in the head, with very light grips and carbon fiber shafts.The center of gravity is designed to be as low and close to the ball as possible. This promotes a smooth, repeatable tempo, minimizes side spin, and ensures the ball stays on the intended line for a truer, consisent roll.

    PGA Tour Champions player Ken Duke has already adopted a Gravity putter in his bag, saying, “The putters are beautiful and have amazing feel and sound. I fell in love with them instantly. Finally, the consumers will get to experience a true Tour-only quality product without paying thousands of dollars.”

    Forgiveness and Sweet Spot

    Each Gravity Premium Series putter is engineered for maximum Moment of Inertia (MOI). This increases the stability of the face, effectively widening the sweet spot to ensure off-center strikes are met with forgiveness and consistency.

    The Gravity Premium Series Putters:

    • The Classic – The Classic, Gravity’s new traditional anser-style putter in the Premium Series, is optimized for modern stroke types with a shallower arc. It features a newly designed hosel for enhanced performance and feel. The Classic is made with 1018 carbon steel material for the best ball feel with Tour Only quality ceramic coating finish. MSRP: $450
    • The DEUCE – The new DEUCE is a double-wide anser putter that is easy to aim with a blade-like look. Available in 1018 carbon steel body, the DEUCE is designed to fit all stroke types with two hosel locations. MSRP: $450
    • The DUKE – The new DUKE putter takes its inspiration from PGA TOUR Champions player Ken Duke. Made with a 1018 carbon steel body with tungsten weighting, the DUKE is a modern interpretation of a classic-style putter that has a shorter blade length with a half mallet back: MSRP: $450
    • The PRISM – Gravity’s redesigned PRISM mallet putter naturally improves the putting stroke and tightens the dispersion of putts. Engineered to deliver the right MOI and unmatched stability, the PRISM optimizes the stroke and provides the best roll in golf. It is made of 6061 aluminum and 50 grams of tungsten. The mallet head has been reshaped to improve stability and move CG more forward. MSRP: $450
    • The DRAC – The redesigned DRAC is the modernization of a fang-style putter. It is Gravity’s highest MOI putter that is made of 6061 aluminum and 100 grams of tungsten. It has been redesigned with the Gravity logo and colorways. MSRP: $450

    “We named the new putter division ‘Gravity’ because it perfectly encapsulates this fundamental design principle that enhances the natural tempo and precision of every putt,” said NEWTON GOLF’s Executive Chairman Greg Campbell. “When the golfer lifts the putter on the backstroke, potential energy is stored, and, by trusting gravity to accelerate the putter head during the stroke, golfers can achieve consistent velocity at impact – which is proportional to the length of the backstroke.”

    All Gravity putters are available for preorder on October 1, 2024 at https://newtongolfco.com.
    Images of the Gravity putters can be found here.

    About NEWTON GOLF: A Sacks Parente Company

    NEWTON GOLF: A Sacks Parente Company, is a technology-forward golf company that help golfers elevate their game. With a growing portfolio of golf products, including putters, golf shafts, golf grips, and other golf-related accessories, the Company’s innovative accomplishments include: the First Vernier Acuity putter, patented Ultra-Low Balance Point (ULBP) putter technology, weight-forward Center-of-Gravity (CG) design, and pioneering ultra-light carbon fiber putter shafts.

    In consideration of its growth opportunities in golf shaft technologies, the Company expanded its manufacturing business in April of 2022 to develop the advanced Newton brand of premium golf shafts by opening a new shaft manufacturing facility in St. Joseph, MO. It is the Company’s intent to manufacture and assemble substantially all products in the United States, while also expanding into golf apparel and other golf-related product lines to enhance its growth.

    The Company’s future expansions may include broadening its offerings through mergers, acquisitions or internal developments of product lines that are complementary to its premium brand. The Company currently sells its products through resellers, the Company’s websites, Club Champion retail stores, and distributors in the United States, Japan, and South Korea. For more information, please visit the Company’s website at www.newtongolfco.com or on social media at @newtongolfco.com, @newtonshafts, or @gravityputters.

    Media Contact for NEWTON GOLF

    Beth Gast
    BG Public Relations
    beth.gast@bgpublicrelations.com

    Investor Contact for NEWTON GOLF
    CORE IR
    516-222-2560
    investors@sacksparente.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese research ship harassed by Philippine vessels

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    A Chinese research ship was approached and harassed by a military speed-gunboat and a coastguard vessel of the Philippines while conducting scientific research in the South China Sea on Tuesday.
    According to personnel aboard the Chinese ship, a speed-gunboat from the Philippine side approached and zigzagged around the Chinese ship Haiyang Dizhi 12, or Ocean Geology 12 in English, in the early morning, disrupting its normal research operations.
    Subsequently, vessel No. 4411 of the Philippine coastguard crossed in front of the Chinese research vessel and passed through with malicious intent, violating international rules on averting maritime collisions and gravely hampering the safety of the Chinese vessel and its operation.
    According to the captain of the Chinese research ship, this was the second time that the Philippine side had harassed China’s research vessels since the start of the scientific research mission.
    Previously, a Philippine vessel with the number 298 painted on its side deliberately covered the name on its bow, turned off its lighting and automatic identification system, and passed in front of the Chinese research vessel about 300 meters away at a high speed during nighttime, the captain said, noting that the Philippine vessel neither steered to make way nor answered radio communication from the Chinese vessel, posing a serious threat to the latter’s safety of navigation.
    The Chinese scientific research mission carried out by the ship is based on peaceful purposes and aimed at enriching humankind’s scientific knowledge of the ocean, said the chief scientist of this mission, adding that the methods and tools used in the mission are scientific and appropriate.
    The mission comply with the general principles outlined in article 240 of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea regarding the conduct of marine scientific research, and are both legitimate and legal, the chief scientist said.
    Ding Duo, a researcher with the National Institute for South China Sea Studies, noted that China’s marine scientific exploration activities in relevant waters are based on China’s territorial sovereignty over the Nansha Qundao and its corresponding maritime rights. China’s relevant activities are exercising the rights of coastal countries granted by international laws, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, said Ding.
    China welcomes scientific research institutions of other countries in the South China Sea to conduct joint maritime scientific research activities with China, promote practical maritime cooperation in various fields, and create favorable conditions for peace and stability in the South China Sea, as well as regional development and prosperity, Ding added.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SITI continues visit to Wuhan (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    SITI continues visit to Wuhan (with photos)
    SITI continues visit to Wuhan (with photos)
    *******************************************

         The Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, continued his visit in Wuhan, Hubei Province today (September 25).     In the morning, Professor Sun attended the 2024 China Automotive Supply Chain Conference and the Third China Intelligent Networked New Energy Vehicle Ecological Conference organised by the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers and Dongfeng Motor Corporation, as well as the launching ceremony of the International Automotive and Supply Chain (Hong Kong) Summit and the 2025 International Automotive and Supply Chain Expo (Hong Kong).     Speaking at the Conference, Professor Sun said that the automobile industry has entered the new energy era, making it an emerging industry under new industrialisation. In the Hong Kong Innovation and Technology Development Blueprint, new energy vehicle is also one of the significant industries advocated for development under new industrialisation.     He added that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government and the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology signed the Co-operation Agreement on the Development of New Quality Productive Forces and the Promotion of New Industrialisation last week. Those areas jointly promoted by the two sides are intertwined with the supply chain of new energy vehicle industry. Over the past two years or so, the HKSAR Government attracted over 100 strategic innovation and technology (I&T) enterprises to set up their businesses in Hong Kong, including BeyonCa, a joint enterprise established earlier in Hong Kong by today’s event co-organiser Dongfeng Motor Corporation and France’s Renault Group. He is confident that Hong Kong can make new contributions to the innovative development of the national supply chain of new energy vehicle industry, thereby augmenting the new advantages of Chinese vehicle brands.     Professor Sun then visited Dongfeng Motor Corporation and learned about the corporation’s latest development, product planning and corporate culture. He had in-depth exchanges with the Chairman of the corporation, Mr Yang Qing, on the corporation’s development of new quality productive forces in the future and potential co-operation opportunities between the two parties in aspects such as new industrialisation, with the aim of making good use of Hong Kong’s roles as a “super connector” and “super value-adder” and the unique function as a dual lane to assist Mainland enterprises to go global and expand overseas markets. He particularly hoped that both sides’ collaboration on the project of BeyonCa setting up in Hong Kong will serve as a demonstration of co-operation with each other.     Professor Sun also visited the corporation’s Mengshi Tech Intelligent Park to tour the assembly final workshop, and experience the functionality and performance of the latest domestic high-end off-road electric vehicles at the off-road experience field. Through on-site visits, exchanges and interactions, as well as dynamic experiences, he learned more about the production process and technology capabilities of Mengshi automobiles. Besides, Professor Sun was briefed in detail on the first model car of BeyonCa and he called for accelerating the plan of setting up assembly production line in Hong Kong.     In the afternoon, Professor Sun visited Wuhan FineMEMS Inc. to gain an understanding of the national high technology enterprise’s technology research and development and products in providing MEMS (Microelectromechanical Systems) sensors, and metallic thick film pressure sensors and system. He also visited the fully automated one piece flow smart production line established by the company.     Professor Sun then proceeded to the Wuhan University to meet and exchange views with leaders and experts from Wuhan University, other local higher education institutions, Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the People’s Government of Hubei Province, Department of Science and Technology of Hubei Province, as well as high-tech enterprises. Professor Sun gave the participants an update on Hong Kong’s overall I&T development. They also exchanged views on strengthening collaboration in scientific researches among higher education institutions between Hubei and Hong Kong, as well as advancing the expansion of business by Hubei I&T enterprises to Hong Kong. Professor Sun expressed his support for deepening co-operation in the I&T aspect among higher education institutions between the two places, noting that the HKSAR Government would provide appropriate support and services to university spin-off start-ups planning to establish their footholds in Hong Kong. He also encouraged start-ups in Hubei Province to leverage on Hong Kong’s edges of internationalisation and a highly market-oriented environment to expand their businesses overseas.     The Commissioner for Industry (Innovation and Technology), Dr Ge Ming, also joined the visit.     Professor Sun concluded his visit and returned to Hong Kong in the evening.

     
    Ends/Wednesday, September 25, 2024Issued at HKT 20:45

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Global: Continuing crackdown on churches and NGOs moves Nicaragua further from democracy to authoritarianism

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Richard Wood, President of the Institute for Advanced Catholic Studies, USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences

    A man prays at the Metropolitan Cathedral in Managua, the capital of Nicaragua, in August 2022. Oswaldo Rivas/AFP via Getty Images

    The Nicaraguan government recently shut down more than 1,500 nonprofits – many of them civic and religious groups doing humanitarian work in a country long mired in political violence, economic upheaval and social strife.

    The August 2024 closures were the latest in a long-running crackdown on civil society, including religious groups – some of the last influential, independent organizations in the country. That same month, the government revoked churches’ tax-exempt status. Over the past few years, many houses of worship have been closed or had their bank accounts frozen.

    As a sociologist, I have worked with Central American scholars to research the role of religion in public life in Central America, including Nicaragua. Several hundred Catholic figures have been detained in an ongoing crackdown under President Daniel Ortega, now 78, who leads the Sandinista National Liberation Front.

    Sweeping suppression

    Ortega’s FSLN party, as it is known in Spanish, is the authoritarian remnant of the group that led a broad national movement against Anastasio Somoza Debayle’s dictatorship in the 1970s. After overthrowing Somoza in 1979, Ortega and the Sandinistas governed until losing the 1990 election.

    Since Ortega returned to power in the 2006 elections, moderates have fled the FSLN, which since then has used oppression and violence for political and social control. In 2013, the National Assembly removed presidential term limits set by the Nicaraguan constitution.

    In April 2018, Ortega’s regime began targeting student protesters. Since then, hundreds of citizens — religious leaders, university students, academics, journalists and doctors — have been killed or arrested, gone into hiding or been forced to flee the country.

    Ortega’s crackdown has been broad. Universities had their assets confiscated and funding cut, and some have been shut down as the government took control of higher education. Media outlets have been shuttered, and international aid organizations have been expelled.

    Paramilitary police officers and prison guards have been accused of engaging in arbitrary killings and torture. Meanwhile, a record number of refugees are fleeing the country.

    Parishioners attend Mass at St. Agatha Catholic Church in Miami, which has become the spiritual home of the growing Nicaraguan diaspora.
    AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell

    Silencing churches

    Among the nearly 5,500 nonprofits that closed in Nicaragua between 2018 and 2024 are Catholic, evangelical Christian and historical Protestant organizations, as well as secular humanitarian ones. Of those, 1,650 organizations and churches were shuttered in August 2024, with government officials claiming their closure was due to ties to private enterprises or a lack of financial records.

    Catholic media and radio stations, missionary orders and humanitarian groups have been shuttered, too, as Ortega and the vice president – his wife, Rosario Murillo – have sought to eliminate settings where ideas and information freely flow, and people act independently of the government.

    The highest-profile religious leader caught up in the clampdown is Rolando Álvarez, a popular bishop, critic of Ortega, and a prominent Catholic voice of protest. Álvarez was detained in August 2022, accused of “conspiracy and spreading false news,” stripped of his citizenship and sentenced to 26 years in prison.

    Police officers and riot police block the main entrance of a church building in Matagalpa, Nicaragua, in August 2022 to prevent Bishop Rolando Álvarez from leaving.
    STR/AFP via Getty Images

    With international pressure mounting, Alvarez and a group of fellow detained Catholic clergy were released in January 2024 and exiled to the Vatican – where the regime had previously expelled the apostolic nuncio, the pope’s top diplomat in Nicaragua. They are among 245 Catholic figures the country has expelled in recent years. An additional 135 people, including Catholics and evangelicals, were expelled and stripped of their citizenship in September 2024.

    Today, 43% of Nicaraguan citizens identity as Catholics. But that percentage used to be much higher, and the country has deep cultural roots in Catholicism.

    In Nicaragua, as in much of Latin America, the Catholic Church is the most powerful source of social authority and the largest independent institution for public debate. It represents a key channel through which democratic values may take root, grow and thrive – an obstacle, in the regime’s eyes.

    For many years, the church was the only organization to escape Ortega’s grip – but no longer.

    Dangerous path

    I have witnessed firsthand Nicaragua’s shift from a country with promising seeds of democracy to violent autocracy. As civil war raged between the original Sandinista regime and U.S.-backed Contras in the 1980s, I led travel seminars to Nicaragua for faith groups, journalists, congressional aides and university students. I once personally encountered Ortega, serving as translator during a meeting with American journalists when his official translator failed to show up.

    Today, as Ortega continues to consolidate power by crushing opposition, Nicaragua has deteriorated into an oppressive state ruled with an iron fist. This reality reflects broader dynamics globally, from autocratic movements in the U.S. and Western Europe to current regimes in Russia, India, Turkey, Hungary and China.

    Nicaraguan citizens wave from a bus after being released from a Nicaraguan jail and landing in Guatemala City on Sept. 5, 2024.
    AP Photo/Moises Castillo

    Closer to home, Ortega poses a regional threat as a model for other potential autocrats. This is especially the case for neighbors like El Salvador, where President Nayib Bukele – the popular, self-described “coolest dictator” – is going down a similar path of turning the nation into an authoritarian state.

    I have seen Nicaraguans’ generosity and courage in the long fight for liberty and justice. The closure of democratic spaces, civic institutions and humanitarian organizations, along with the suppression of religious freedom, is a glaring sign that the country is being marched toward more oppression and violence – and, as history shows, risks becoming ripe for revolution.

    Only a gradual rebuilding of civil society, I believe, may save Nicaragua from that fate. The tragedy is what Nicaragua could have been: a thriving democratic society, with a commitment to empowering the poor.

    From 1983-1987 and part-time from 1987-1992, Richard Wood worked running travel seminars in Mexico and Central America. From 2010-2012, he received funding from the Center on Religion and Civic Culture at the University of Southern California and The John Templeton Foundation for research collaboration with Central American researchers.

    ref. Continuing crackdown on churches and NGOs moves Nicaragua further from democracy to authoritarianism – https://theconversation.com/continuing-crackdown-on-churches-and-ngos-moves-nicaragua-further-from-democracy-to-authoritarianism-238178

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI Global: Local government controls your roads, schools and utilities − but that doesn’t mean the US president doesn’t touch your life in important ways

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Zoe Nemerever, Professor of Political Science, Auburn University

    The top of the ticket often gets the most attention. Alex Brandon/AP Photo

    “All politics is local” is a common refrain – and yet, it is also true that the president has some unique powers.

    I am an expert on state policymaking, and I’m teaching presidential politics at Auburn University during this election season. Researching and teaching about both state and national politics has made me keenly aware of the stakes of the different races up and down the ballot this fall.

    Power close to home

    State and local governments shape our daily experiences in practical ways. State governments determine whether residents have access to expanded Medicaid, reproductive care, parental and family leave, and they set the state property, sales and income taxes, which we are all required to pay.

    City councils, county boards and school boards determine the quality of the roads we travel, the selection of books in school libraries and the prices of utilities such as water and sewer service.

    Most Americans will have the opportunity to vote for a variety of state and local elected officials this November. Yet many voters find their attention drawn to a more captivating contest: the presidential election.

    And it is hard to deny that the president has an outsized influence on American public policy.

    Staffing the government

    So what does the president do?

    It’s a busy job, for sure – including tasks such as signing executive orders, making treaties, vetoing or signing congressional bills, acting as the military’s commander in chief, attempting to build public support for their agenda and fundraising for the party.

    But one other big responsibility is often overlooked – that of passing out thousands of positions in the executive and judicial branches.

    The president’s appointment power is an enumerated power, meaning that it is enshrined in the U.S. Constitution.

    As the size of the judiciary and federal bureaucracy has grown over the past century, this presidential power has ballooned to include 4,000 appointments that turn over at the start of every administration. That doesn’t even include the vacancies that arise during the president’s term – for example, when a federal judge retires or dies.

    Perhaps the most well-known presidential appointment power is the power to nominate Supreme Court justices. These nominations tend to be highly political and dramatic affairs. This is due to their irregular and often sudden timing and to the high stakes of lifetime appointments.

    Some presidents don’t get to exercise this supreme power as much as they would like. But they still get to fill many other judgeships across the district courts, appellate courts and other federal courts.

    The Founding Fathers were adamant that the executive appointment power was not unilateral, as evidenced in Federalist Paper 76 penned by Alexander Hamilton. For 1,200 of the most consequential positions, the president nominates individuals, who are then confirmed – or not – by the U.S. Senate.

    The Founding Fathers perceived this as important for preventing the tyranny of a sole actor, which they had just worked so hard to leave behind under English rule.

    Assembling a Cabinet

    Some of the most consequential of these appointments are members of the presidential Cabinet.

    Much like how a head football coach assembles a team of assistants to enact their vision, the president convenes a team of policy champions to lead the 15 executive departments in the federal bureaucracy.

    Each department is run by a “secretary,” nominated by the president and confirmed by the Senate. The president consults with Cabinet members at periodic meetings, but secretaries otherwise enjoy a great deal of autonomy. For this reason, the president tries to pick Cabinet members who share their policy perspective.

    Much of the agenda presidents claim credit for is, in fact, achieved by the Cabinet departments. For example, during the current Biden administration, the Department of Labor increased guaranteed overtime compensation, the Department of Health and Human Services recommended making marijuana a legal but regulated drug, and the Department of Education launched an initiative to tackle the post-COVID surge in chronic absenteeism.

    Cabinet members often fly under the radar of the media, and consequently voters, with a few exceptions. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg had his moment in the headlines earlier in 2024 when he announced a new federal rule that entitles airline passengers to prompt cash refunds when their flights are canceled or delayed. President Barack Obama’s Secretary of Education Arne Duncan was well known for his bus tours promoting the economic value of education. President George W. Bush’s Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice spearheaded the noteworthy 2008 U.S.-India nuclear agreement.

    Crisis manager in chief, ad hoc

    Presidents also have the power to touch voters’ lives in profound ways by serving as a unifying character during national crises, a role that differentiates the president from other elected officials.

    These crises, unforeseen at the time of the election, require the president to swiftly reassure a distressed nation. For example, after the 9/11 terrorist attacks, President George W. Bush delivered an address that acknowledged the grief of Americans while imparting a stern guarantee that the United States would not cower to terrorists. President Donald Trump provided direction for a national response to an unprecedented global pandemic. President Bill Clinton shared heartfelt remarks at the memorial service of those killed in the bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah federal building in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. And Obama honored victims of a racially motivated shooting at a church in Charleston, South Carolina.

    Presidential candidates of course cannot campaign on their ability to handle unpredictable, emergent situations. Instead, they talk up personal traits that will equip them to carry the nation through the next four years – whatever that may bring.

    During the recent 2024 presidential debate between Democratic candidate Kamala Harris and Republican candidate Donald Trump, the candidates tried to demonstrate traits such as strength, humor and mental sharpness – all of which would prove invaluable during whatever the next four years throws our way.

    This November, voters will consider a diverse spread of candidates, from city mayor to president, each with important responsibilities.

    National, state and local governments work together to shape our perceptions, good or bad, about the role public policy plays in our lives – and I’d encourage voters to pay attention to candidates at both the top of the ballot and further down.

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

    ref. Local government controls your roads, schools and utilities − but that doesn’t mean the US president doesn’t touch your life in important ways – https://theconversation.com/local-government-controls-your-roads-schools-and-utilities-but-that-doesnt-mean-the-us-president-doesnt-touch-your-life-in-important-ways-237939

    MIL OSI – Global Reports