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  • MIL-OSI Translation: Government of Canada announces support for Indigenous-led climate solutions in remote Indigenous communities

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Government of Canada – in French

    Press release

    October 6, 2024 Thunder Bay, Ontario Natural Resources Canada

    First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples in Canada are at the forefront of efforts to combat climate change and adapt to its environmental and economic impacts. The Government of Canada is committed to supporting self-determined action on Indigenous climate priorities to create a healthy and resilient future for all.

    The Government of Canada is pleased to announce today the second phase of the Indigenous Initiative to Reduce Dependence on Diesel (IARDD) – Cohort 2. During this phase, the ten Energy Champion teams listed below, who are from remote Indigenous Nations and communities, will receive up to $500,000 to engage in community engagement, complete the training program, and develop their community energy plan.

    Xeni Gwet’in First Nation Government, British Columbia Tahltan Band Council, British Columbia Uchucklesaht Tribe Government, British Columbia Ḵwiḵwa̱sut’inux̱w Ha̱xwa’mis First Nation, British Columbia Hamlet of Paulatuk, Northwest Territories Fort Chipewyan, Alberta Mountain Cree Camp, Alberta Pangnirtung, Nunavut Kiashke Zaaging Anishinaabek – Gull Bay First Nation, Ontario Kangirsuk, Nunavik, Quebec

    Comprised of clean energy leaders, the ten teams completed the 20/20 Catalysts program delivered by the Indigenous Clean Energy Social Enterprise (ICE SE), the federal government’s implementing partner for the Initiative. Each team pairs an energy champion with mentors and receives tailored support in areas such as technical knowledge, community engagement and project management.

    Once Phase 2 is completed, all ten teams may be eligible for additional funding to advance the design and development of their project based on their community energy plan in Phase 3, scheduled for 2025.

    Quotes

    “Indigenous peoples are facing unprecedented and severe climate challenges that threaten their lives, livelihoods, cultures and knowledge systems. In the face of these threats, Indigenous communities across the country are taking remarkable action to combat climate change and adapt to its impacts. Indigenous-led climate solutions are more resilient, deliver better outcomes and better integrate expert input as we move together toward a clean and prosperous future. I am thrilled to see these ten projects enter a new phase and look forward to seeing what innovations come next.”

    The Honourable Jonathan WilkinsonMinister of Energy and Natural Resources

    “Indigenous peoples are on the front lines of climate change in Canada and, as the original stewards of our lands and waters, are uniquely positioned to find solutions that will ensure a sustainable and prosperous future for generations to come. Clean energy projects in Indigenous communities are a constant source of inspiration for me, and I congratulate the Energy Champions on this exciting new phase of community engagement, training and planning to create a more resilient future where everyone can benefit from a strong and sustainable economy.”

    The Honourable Patty HajduMinister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario

    “As climate change continues to challenge the way of life of Indigenous communities, particularly in the North and Arctic, it is more important than ever that Indigenous peoples play a leading role in how we adapt to these changes. The launch of Phase 2 of this clean energy initiative demonstrates our shared commitment to reconciliation and the importance of building meaningful relationships with First Nations, Inuit and Métis to determine how we can meaningfully adapt our actions to build a cleaner future for the next seven generations.”

    The Honourable Dan VandalMinister of Northern Affairs

    “The transition to clean energy remains important to Indigenous communities and the Government of Canada in our shared efforts to advance reconciliation. The projects announced today under the Indigenous Initiative to Reduce Dependence on Diesel are a great example of how we can advance self-determined priorities by helping communities take greater control of their energy futures and well-being.”

    Michael V. McLeod Member of Parliament for the Northwest Territories

    Quick Facts

    The second cohort of IARDD is part of the $300 million envelope announced in Canada’s strengthened climate plan for clean energy projects in Indigenous, rural and remote communities.

    IARDD is a clean energy training and financing program that supports Indigenous-led climate solutions in Indigenous communities that rely on diesel or other fossil fuels for heating and electricity generation.

    Launched in 2019, the IARDD is the result of 18 months of consultations with Indigenous communities, rights holders and organizations. It is administered in collaboration with ICE SE and the Government of Canada.

    Applicants who were not selected for the second cohort of IARDD were invited to meet with a member of the federal Wah-ila-toos team and the ICE SE team to discuss their priorities and other possible funding options. They were also invited to join the networkICE Networkand to participate in future activities of this network, which is an online collaboration space open to anyone working on indigenous clean energy projects.

    The IARDD is delivered through Wah-ila-toos – a single window for Indigenous, rural and remote communities to access funding and resources from the Government of Canada for clean energy projects. Through this window, the Government of Canada will continue to foster constructive relationships with Indigenous communities to promote reconciliation and self-determination, advance clean energy projects, and help unlock new economic opportunities through strong Indigenous climate leadership.

    The Wah-ila-toos platform is administered by Natural Resources Canada, Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada, Indigenous Services Canada, Environment and Climate Change Canada, and Infrastructure Canada. Its name, given to it by three grandmothers who were Elders, embodies the idea that everything is connected and that it is our responsibility to maintain good relationships with all.

    Related links

    Contact persons

    Media RelationsNatural Resources Canada Ottawa 343-292-6100 nrcan.media.rncan@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca

    Cindy CaturaoPress SecretaryOffice of the Minister of Energy and Natural ResourcesCindy.Caturao@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca

    Follow us on LinkedIn  

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada Announces Support for Indigenous-led Climate Solutions in Remote Indigenous Communities

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    News release

    October 6, 2024            Thunder Bay, Ontario                 Natural Resources Canada 

     First Nations, Inuit, and Métis in Canada are at the forefront of efforts to address climate change and adapt to the environmental and economic impacts of our changing climate. The Government of Canada is committed to supporting self-determined action in addressing Indigenous Peoples’ climate priorities to create a healthy and resilient future for all.

    Today, the Government of Canada is pleased to announce Phase 2 of the Indigenous Off-Diesel Initiative (IODI) Cohort 2. During this phase, the following 10 Energy Champion teams from remote Indigenous communities and Nations will receive up to $500,000 to conduct community engagement, complete training and develop their Community Energy Plan.

    •  Xeni Gwet’in First Nations Government, British Columbia 
    • Tahltan Band Council, British Columbia 
    • Uchucklesaht Tribe Government, British Columbia 
    • Ḵwiḵwa̱sut’inux̱w Ha̱xwa’mis First Nation, British Columbia 
    • Hamlet of Paulatuk, Northwest Territories 
    • Fort Chipewyan, Alberta 
    • Mountain Cree Camp, Alberta 
    • Pangnirtung, Nunavut 
    • Kiashke Zaaging Anishinaabek – Gull Bay First Nation, Ontario 
    • Kangirsuk, Nunavik, Quebec 

    Comprising clean energy leaders, the 10 Energy Champion teams completed the 20/20 Catalysts program delivered by the Indigenous Clean Energy Social Enterprise, the federal government’s delivery partner on the Initiative. An Energy Champion from each team has also been paired with mentors to receive tailored support in areas including technical knowledge, community engagement and project management.

    Following the successful completion of Phase 2, these 10 Energy Champion teams may be eligible to receive additional funding to advance project design and development, guided by their Community Energy Plan, as part of Phase 3 in 2025.

    Quotes

    “Indigenous Peoples face significant and unique climate challenges that threaten livelihoods, cultures, knowledge systems and lives. In the face of these threats, Indigenous communities from coast to coast to coast are taking remarkable action to fight climate change and adapt to its impacts. Indigenous-led climate solutions offer better resiliency, better outcomes and more space for expert voices as we move together along the path to a clean and prosperous future. I am pleased to see these 10 projects enter a new phase and look forward to seeing the innovations to come.” 

    The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson
    Minister of Energy and Natural Resources 

    “Indigenous Peoples are on the front lines of climate change in Canada, and as the original stewards of our lands and waters, they are uniquely positioned to lead solutions to ensure a sustainable and prosperous future for generations to come. I am consistently inspired by the clean energy projects carried out in Indigenous communities, and I applaud the Energy Champions for entering this exciting new phase of community engagement, training and planning for a more resilient future where all can benefit from a sustainable and strong economy.”

    The Honourable Patty Hajdu 
    Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister Responsible for the
    Federal Economic Development Agency of Northern Ontario

    “As the way of life of Indigenous communities continues to be impacted due to our changing climate, especially in the North and Arctic, it is more important than ever that they be a driving force in how we adapt to these changes. Starting Phase 2 of this clean-energy initiative is a testament to our shared commitment to reconciliation and the power of meaningful relationships with First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities in tackling how we can actively adjust our actions to support a cleaner future for the next seven generations.” 

    The Honourable Dan Vandal
    Minister of Northern Affairs

    “The transition to clean energy continues to be important to Indigenous communities and the Government of Canada as we work together toward reconciliation. The Indigenous Off-Diesel Initiative projects announced today are a great example of the way we can encourage self-determined priorities by supporting communities in increasing their control over their energy future and well-being.” 

    Michael V. McLeod
    Member of Parliament for Northwest Territories

    Quick facts

    • Cohort 2 of the Indigenous Off-Diesel Initiative (IODI) is part of the $300 million announced in Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan to support clean energy projects in Indigenous, rural and remote communities.

    • IODI is a clean energy training and funding program that supports Indigenous-led climate solutions in remote Indigenous communities that currently use diesel or fossil fuels for heat and power. 

    • IODI was first launched in 2019 and was designed based on 18 months of engagement with Indigenous communities, rights holders and organizations. It is delivered in collaboration with the Indigenous Clean Energy Social Enterprise (ICE SE) and the Government of Canada. 

    • Applicants who were not selected to participate in Cohort 2 of IODI were invited to meet directly with a member of the Wah-ila-toos federal team and the team at the Indigenous Clean Energy Social Enterprise to discuss their priorities and other possible funding options. They were also invited to join the ICE Network, an online collaborative space for everyone working on Indigenous Clean Energy projects, and to attend future ICE Network events. 

    • The IODI is delivered through Wah-ila-toos, a single-window access point for Indigenous, rural and remote communities to obtain Government of Canada funding and resources for clean energy initiatives. The Government of Canada will continue to develop meaningful relationships with Indigenous communities to advance reconciliation and self-determination, advance clean energy projects and help ensure new economic opportunities through strong Indigenous climate leadership.

    • Wah-ila-toos is administered by Natural Resources Canada, Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada, Indigenous Services Canada, Environment and Climate Change Canada, and Infrastructure Canada. The name Wah-ila-toos was gifted by three Grandmothers and Elders. It represents kinship with all and our duty to be in good relations with all.

    Associated links

    Contacts

    Media Relations 
    Natural Resources Canada 
    Ottawa 
    343-292-6100 
    nrcan.media.rncan@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca   

    Cindy Caturao
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources
    Cindy.Caturao@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca

    Follow us on LinkedIn  

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: FACT SHEET: UPDATE: Biden-⁠ Harris Administration Sparing No Resource to Support Communities Impacted by Hurricane  Helene

    Source: The White House

    President Biden ordered 500 additional active-duty troops to support on-the-ground efforts; 1,500 troops now mobilized to assist National Guard and Federal personnel

    Under President Biden and Vice President Harris’s direction, the Administration continues to mobilize a robust, intensive, and whole-of-government response to the impacts of Hurricane Helene. As life-saving response efforts continue in heavily impacted areas, the Administration is also working to ensure communities across the Southeast have prompt access to Federal resources that will enable them to both purchase essential items and begin their road to recovery and rebuilding.

    Today, in response to North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper’s request for additional support, President Biden ordered that another 500 active-duty troops move into Western North Carolina. With a total of 1,500 troops now supplementing a robust on-the-ground effort – including more than 6,100 National Guardsmen and more than 7,000 Federal personnel – the Biden-Harris Administration is mobilizing all relevant resources to support families as they begin their road to rebuilding.

    The Administration has already helped thousands of Hurricane Helene survivors jumpstart their recoveries with more than $137 million in Federal assistance – with more to come. Over the last several days, the Administration has contacted nearly 450 state, city, and county officials in impacted states to ensure they have the support and resources they need. 

    The Administration is committed to ensuring that all communities receive accurate information that is essential to their recovery. The Administration, including FEMA, has been tracking and combatting the significant amount of false information circulating online related to the Federal response – which can discourage people from seeking critical and life-saving assistance. The Administration is actively working to identify and combat this misinformation and disinformation and support survivors in every possible way. 

    President Biden and Vice President Harris have traveled throughout the Southeast this week to meet with impacted communities and, during their travels, have reaffirmed that the Administration will be with impacted communities every step of the way, no matter how long it takes, to ensure they have the support and resources they need to recover and rebuild. While there is a long way to go on the road to full recovery and rebuilding, Republican and Democratic leaders from across the country have praised the Administration’s well-coordinated response and surge of resources in the aftermath of Helene’s landfall – including South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp, Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin, North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper, South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham, and Asheville Mayor Esther Manheimer.

    Additionally, the Federal government is closely monitoring Tropical Storm Milton in the Gulf of Mexico, which has the potential to have significant impacts along the West coast of the Florida Peninsula by mid-next week. Residents in Florida should remain alert, listen to local officials, and make additional preparations as needed.

    Additional updates on the Federal response include: 

    Active-Duty Service Members Delivering Life-Saving Supplies to North Carolinians

    In response to North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper’s request for additional support, today President Biden directed another 500 troops move into Western North Carolina. These troops have advanced technological assets to provide greater situational awareness on the ground and will assist with future resource planning across the region. These additional 500 troops supplement the nearly 1,000 soldiers from Fort Liberty, North Carolina, and Fort Campbell, Kentucky, who have already been mobilized through the Department of Defense and in coordination with FEMA to support the residents and affected counties in Western North Carolina.

    In support of the state and North Carolina National Guard, these active-duty troops are focusing their efforts on moving valuable commodities—like food and water—to distribution sites, getting those commodities to survivors in areas that are hard to reach. They are also working on road stabilization and route clearance activities. 

    In addition, the Department of Defense is providing rotary wing assets from the Army and Navy for personnel movement and commodity distribution across the affected region. Fixed and rotary wing assets from the Air Force are conducting search and rescue activities.  

    The US Army Corps of Engineers has established 12 Emergency Operations Centers across the southeast, with three in North Carolina. The Army Corps of Engineers also has emergency power teams conducting assessments in North Carolina and Georgia as well as water/wastewater assessments, bridge and road inspections, and debris removal efforts in North Carolina and Florida.

    Over 6,000 National Guard personnel from 18 States are spearheading the response effort across the impacted region, providing critical life-saving and life-sustaining support to the victims of this unprecedented natural disaster.  

    Supporting On-The-Ground Response Efforts

    The Biden-Harris Administration is actively working alongside state, local and Tribal partners to assess damage and support those affected by the disaster. 

    The Federal government has already helped thousands of Hurricane Helene survivors jumpstart their recoveries with more than $137 million in federal assistance. More than 7,000 personnel from across the Federal workforce are deployed, including U.S. Forest Service Saw Teams to help clear debris in remote areas. To date, FEMA has shipped over 14.9 million meals, more than 13.9 million liters of water, more than 505,000 tarps to the region, and installed 157 generators at critical facilities such as hospitals and water treatment plants.

    President Biden has approved 100 percent Federal cost share for Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. This means that the Federal government will cover 100 percent of the costs associated with things like debris removal, first responders, search and rescue, shelters, and mass feeding.

    Disaster survivors in certain areas of Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia can begin their recovery process by applying for federal assistance through FEMA. People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in the designated areas should apply for assistance, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula, breastfeeding supplies and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Homeowners and renters with damage to their home or personal property from previous disasters, whether they received FEMA funds or not, are still eligible to apply for and receive assistance for Hurricane Helene.   


    Repairing Roads and Re-Establishing Critical Routes 

    The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) announced the immediate availability of $100 million in Emergency Relief funds for the North Carolina Department of Transportation to help pay for the costs of immediate emergency work resulting from Hurricane Helene flood damage. The Department also announced $32 million for the Tennessee Department of Transportation. This is in addition to the $2 million announced for use by the South Carolina Department of Transportation.

    These funds will allow the states to act more quickly to fund eligible repairs to their damaged facilities. FHWA’s Emergency Relief program provides funding to states, territories, Tribes, and Federal Land Management Agencies for highways and bridges damaged by natural disasters or catastrophic events. These Emergency Relief funds, provided through the “quick release” process, are an initial installment of funds toward restoring this essential transportation link. Additional funds needed to repair damage will be supported by the Emergency Relief program through nationwide funding allocations.

    Restoring Power and Critical Communications 

    As of this morning, approximately 384,000 customers are without power, down more than 91 percent from the region-wide peak of 4.6 million on September 27. At least 50,000 personnel from 41 states, the District of Columbia, and Canada are responding to power outages in the Southeast and Appalachia.

    Additionally, FirstNet, an independent agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration, has been instrumental in providing critical communication support during Hurricane Helene. The FirstNet Response Operations Group deployed 19 SatCOLTs (light trucks with mounted cellular towers) and numerous portable cellular sites to the hardest-hit areas, including North Carolina, Georgia, South Carolina, and Florida. So far, FirstNet has provided cell service and internet access to over 75,000 first responders and survivors affected by the storm, while power and connectivity is being restored.

    Calling on Congress to Provide More Disaster Assistance to Communities 

    President Biden wrote a letter to Congressional leaders calling on them to provide more funding for disaster relief efforts. President Biden warned that most urgently, the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) disaster loan program will run out of funding in a matter of weeks and well before the Congress is planning to reconvene. Small businesses and individuals in affected areas depend on disaster loans as a critical lifeline during difficult times. In fact, for individual disaster survivors, SBA loans are often the largest source of Federal disaster recovery funds. Renters and homeowners use these loans to repair and rebuild their homes as well as replace or repair damaged property including their personal vehicles, while businesses use them to cover basic operating expenses. President Biden urged the Congress to restore this funding immediately. SBA is already receiving over 3,000 loan applications a day from people affected by Hurricane Helene.

    The President also warned that, while FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund has the resources it requires right now to meet immediate needs, the fund does face a shortfall at the end of the year. Without additional funding, FEMA would be required to forego longer-term recovery activities in favor of meeting urgent needs. He called on the Congress to provide FEMA additional resources to avoid forcing that kind of unnecessary trade-off and to give the communities we serve the certainty of knowing that help will be ongoing, both for the short- and long-term.

    Administration’s Ongoing Response Efforts Supplement Significant Pre-Landfall Preparations

    The Biden-Harris Administration took significant steps and made extensive preparations prior to Helene making landfall. Two days in advance of Helene making landfall on September 26, the Administration began preparations in coordination with State and local partners. 

    On September 24, FEMA stood up their National Response Coordination Center (NRCC) at FEMA Headquarters in Washington, D.C., charged with monitoring the storm’s track and coordinating national-level emergency response teams. FEMA Region V also activated its Regional Response Coordination Center in Atlanta on September 24, gathering personnel to monitor the storm on the ground close to the anticipated impact and begin planning a response and deployed Incident Management Teams to state Emergency Operations Centers in the storm’s path to coordinate and speed Federal support to response operations.

    At the President’s direction, 1,500 Federal personnel were deployed to the region, including 14 Urban Search and Rescue teams (940 personnel) to potentially affected states, including eight teams to Florida; two teams to Georgia; and four teams to North Carolina and FEMA setup up an incident support base in coordination with the 42d Air Base Wing at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama. 

    The Federal government pre-staged in the region:

    • More than 2.7 million meals, 1.6 million liters of water, 50,000 tarps, 10,000 cots, and 20,000 blankets to support sheltering needs in impacted communities;
    • Tanker trucks with 70,000 gallons of diesel fuel and 40,000 gallons of gasoline to surge to impacted communities once the storm passed to help alleviate any fuel shortages; and;
    • Hundreds of ambulances to assist with the movement of any patients out of impacted hospitals or other facilities.

    In advance of landfall, President Biden approved five Governors’ Emergency Declaration requests for Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina prior to Helene’s landfall. He also immediately approved Emergency Declaration requests that the Governors of Tennessee and Virginia submitted shortly after landfall. These declarations authorized FEMA to reimburse State and local jurisdictions for costs incurred for pre-storm emergency measures including: evacuating and sheltering residents, search and rescue operations, sandbagging, covering costs associated with Emergency Operation Centers, and first responder activation.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Gen Z knowledge about the Holocaust matters for ongoing reconciliation with a troubled history

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Regan Lipes, Extended Sessional Instructor, English and Comparative Literature, MacEwan University

    Since last Oct. 7, the world has seen mass death catalyzed by terrorist attacks in Israel, Israel’s mission to recover hostages still being detained and retaliation in Gaza — and now a long-dreaded war erupting through the Middle East.

    As a scholar of Jewish and Holocaust literature, in the past year following Oct. 7, I have been aware that how students engage with the history of the Holocaust has been impacted.

    Eighty thousand Israelis remain displaced from their homes in the north. Over 40,000 Palestinians have now been killed in Gaza, and and following a United Nations expert accusing Israel of acts of genocide, UN delegates have amplified calls for an immediate ceasefire.

    Others assert Israel’s actions are a defensive response. While all Israeli citizens have been affected by violence in Israel, Israel is a Jewish state, and the kind of violence and hate directed at Israel is being felt by Jews globally. For many Jews the Oct. 7 attacks themselves resonated hauntingly of Kristallnacht, with the Jewish people again put in a position of needing to defend their right to exist.



    Read more:
    Holocaust comparisons are overused — but in the case of Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack on Israel they may reflect more than just the emotional response of a traumatized people

    The definition of genocide acknowledged in the international Genocide Convention drew on the term coined by Polish-born lawyer Raphael Lemkin who fled persecution of the meticulously orchestrated genocide against European Jewry during the Second World War.

    Globally, we are seeing a time of re-aligning geopolitics, including both the Global South and West becoming increasingly aware of pro-Palestinian perspectives. Many Gen Zs have been quick to rally against Zionism.

    At the same time, Holocaust denialism, antisemitic hate acts and terrorist threats have accompanied a rise in anti-Israel sentiment — with frightening effects on Jews globally, sometimes fanned by propagandists seeking to exploit and augment conflict and polarization.

    Even before events of the past year, as the 1940s recede in time, fewer and fewer Gen Zs have identified themselves as feeling knowledgeable about the Holocaust. The way knowledge is transmitted must adapt with the times.

    Memory through time

    In 2019 I was the faculty fellow for a partnership between the Auschwitz Jewish Center and the Museum of Jewish Heritage (MJH). As a scholar I have had the benefit of meeting with Holocaust survivors to learn about their experiences.

    During my fellowship, the ongoing question rattling in my brain was how to safeguard the lived testimonies of survivors as their numbers dwindle.

    When I teach literature of the Holocaust and second-generation efforts to preserve memory, I have noticed students’ limited knowledge of the Holocaust when I do an informal poll of what they know already. Many students admit an awareness limited exclusively to Hollywood films.

    Six-part documentary

    Director Joe Berlinger’s recent documentary Hitler and the Nazis: Evil on Trial is conscious of deficits in Gen Z education and seeks to remedy this.

    ‘Hitler and the Nazis: Evil on Trial,’ documentary by Joe Berlinger.

    Berlinger’s six-part Netflix documentary takes a unique approach to examining and exploring Hitler’s rise to power and the lasting global impact.

    He frames this analysis by using the writings and broadcasts of journalist and foreign corespondent William L. Shirer, who authored the iconic The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich (1960), in concert with narration from Shirer’s granddaughter, Deirdre van Dyk.

    Within the context of her grandfather’s historically significant coverage of the European political landscape throughout the 1930s and 40s, van Dyk is able to offer insights regarding how Shirer spoke about this period going beyond his public writings.

    Preserving history

    On an online discussion panel organized by the MJH in July 2024, Berlinger acknowledged the plethora of documentaries examining the Second World War, but explained that this work is a targeted effort to preserve history while connecting and resonating with Gen Z viewers.

    Van Dyk’s participation plays a key role in bridging the present with the lived experience of Shirer, a witness of Nazi corruption and totalitarianism.

    Similarly second- and third-generation Holocaust survivors are instrumental in ensuring that their parents and grandparents’ suffering and trauma can be used to caution current learners who will be the politicians, jurists and educators of the future about dangers of antisemitism.

    Online discussion with director Joe Berlinger with Museum of Jewish Heritage.

    Alberta initiative

    An initiative in Alberta, the Second Voices Project is working to help Gen Z students understand the Holocaust in a way that feels authentic and less like distant history.

    The initiative, with the support of the Government of Alberta, uses video testimony given by survivors, and pairs this with discussion, commentary and observations provided by their children and grandchildren.

    Robert Jackson, chief counsel of the International Military Tribunal (IMT) at Nuremberg, noted in his opening statement at the Nuremberg Trial in 1945:

    “The wrongs which we seek to condemn and punish have been so calculated, so malignant and so devastating that civilization cannot tolerate their being ignored because it cannot survive their being repeated.”

    Jackson’s remarks now seem prophetic as society reexamines how best to impart this vital knowledge.

    Increased consciousness

    When the Second Voices Project travels to secondary and post-secondary institutions it is with the hope that seeds for increased tolerance and social consciousness be planted.

    ‘The Pages In Between’ by Erin Einhorn.
    (Simon and Schuster)

    During the winter 2024 semester, in a Jewish literature course I taught, I saw the Second Voices Project in action. The course sees students examine the search for resolution in untenable situations, with reporter Erin Einhorn’s The Pages In Between.

    They grapple with depictions of trauma and extreme loss in Cynthia Ozick’s short story The Shawl and examine how American-born Jews negotiated feelings of misplaced guilt following learning about the extent of the Holocaust.

    Accompanied by a Holocaust education specialist from the Jewish Federation of Edmonton, my students met second-generation survivor and retired physician Dr. Francie Cyngiser.

    Cyngiser’s parents survived the Nazi concentration camps, and she brought her father, Sidney Cyngiser’s, recorded Shoah Foundation testimony, narrated by her son and nephew, to my class.

    Sidney Cyngiser was dedicated to combating Holocaust denial by sharing his story. Instead of simply watching a video of Cyngiser testifying, the documentary was contextualized for students by inter-generational survivors not much younger than their parents.

    Addressing trauma fatigue

    Although Berlinger’s viewers cannot speak directly with van Dyk the way my students did with Dr. Cyngiser, his documentary is an important innovation to engage Gen Z learners.

    To appeal to this targeted viewership, the Shirer family consented to use AI voice approximations of William Shirer’s writings to help narrate Berlinger’s documentary. Although original recordings from his news broadcasts also feature prominently, many of his diaries, smuggled out of Nazi Germany at great risk, needed vocalization for the film.

    By adapting, Holocaust educators can also combat trauma fatigue which can impair capacity for awareness, recognition and response. In Germany, where Holocaust education is mandatory, feelings of frustration over inherited guilt for the Holocaust can breed apathy and resentment.

    Both pro-Zionist and Zionist-critical Jews have highlighted that such sentiments are dangerous in the current global climate.

    Apathy fails to serve any humanitarian function and dangerously anaesthetises all sides to the pain of others.



    Read more:
    Middle East student dialogue: As an expert in deep conflict, what I’ve learned about making conversation possible

    The German term Vergangenheitsbewältigung describes the process of ongoing reconciliation with a troubled history. The past is a reality that humanity as whole must contend with, but a lack of understanding is fertile ground for denial, revisionism and antisemitism.

    I cannot help but wonder if greater awareness of Holocaust history, and political and cultural histories of how to safeguard human rights, would promote more tolerance and compassion universally.

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

    – ref. Gen Z knowledge about the Holocaust matters for ongoing reconciliation with a troubled history – https://theconversation.com/gen-z-knowledge-about-the-holocaust-matters-for-ongoing-reconciliation-with-a-troubled-history-235296

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-Evening Report: A year of devastation: with hope and trust shattered, what can bring an end to the violence in Israel-Palestine?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Eyal Mayroz, Senior Lecturer in Peace and Conflict Studies, University of Sydney

    On October 7 2023, Hamas launched a savage attack on southern Israel, massacring around 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducting another 240 people. The following day, I wrote in an analysis for The Conversation:

    For many Palestinians, this weekend’s events offered Israelis a small taste of what their own lives have been like under decades of occupation. However, the early celebrations will likely soon turn into anger and frustration as the numbers of Palestinian civilian casualties will continue to rise. Violence begets violence.

    As the Israeli retaliation had only just begun, no one could have imagined how devastating it would end up being for the people of Gaza. There are now well over 40,000 Palestinians dead, mostly civilians, and countless wounded. Nearly 2 million people have been displaced within the coastal strip.

    The ferociousness of the Israel Defence Forces’ aerial bombings – and its subsequent ground invasion of Gaza – triggered intense global pressure to stop the violence. This was coupled with a worldwide campaign to end Israel’s decades-long illegal occupation of Palestinian territories.

    This popular movement was able to place its agenda at the forefront of the international media’s attention and sustain it there for many months.

    A year later, however, concern for the people of Gaza – and for the dozens of Israeli hostages still locked up in Hamas’ tunnels – has begun to wane. The world’s focus is shifting to the fast-expanding misery along the Israel–Lebanon border, and to a possible full-scale war between Israel and Iran.

    As the fighting in Gaza grinds on with no end in sight, the prospects for resolving the most intractable conflict in the world between Israeli-Jews and Palestinians seem ever dimmer. But is it so?

    One conflict, two peoples and many onlookers

    In a century-long struggle between two societies over the same small parcel of land, the cycle of violence has barely stopped.

    The challenges today remain frustratingly robust – entrenched territorial claims, grave errors by leaders on both sides and many missed opportunities. Years of polarising narratives have also bred mistrust, competing accounts of victimisation, debilitating fears and animosity — to the point of mutual dehumanisation.

    On the Israeli-Jewish side, there’s a strong sense of an existential security threat, compounded by the inter-generational trauma of the Holocaust and ongoing fears of terrorist attacks. This sharply contrasts with Palestinians’ experiences of decades of dispossession, humiliation, continuous rights violations and feelings of abandonment by the world.

    To further undermine a solution to the conflict, religious and radical nationalist influences – on both sides – have turned an already complex, asymmetric conflict into an unyielding impasse.

    Over the years, international failures to help resolve the conflict drove many states to recalibrate their foreign policies away from constructive engagement. Arguably, this was to avoid harmful impacts to their reputations over future failures, or accusations of bias, from one or both sides.

    Fear, victimhood and tit-for-tat revenge

    The 1948 Nakba, or “catastrophe”, followed by decades of oppressive Israeli occupation, have inflicted immeasurable suffering on Palestinians. In turn, this occupation has also inflicted significant and often unappreciated damage to Israel’s social fabric, cohesion, economy, international standing, security and moral stature.

    Hamas’ brutal massacres and Israel’s vicious retaliations have only exacerbated these effects, for both sides. And they are now threatening to extinguish what tiny hope may have existed before October 2023 for a path towards a liveable future for both people.

    Should the tit-for-tat cycle of violence continue, the blowback will hurt not only Israel’s efforts to attain safety and security for its citizens, but the prospects for a political future for the Palestinians, as well.

    Arguably, existential fear may be the most underappreciated and damaging element behind the conflict’s intractability.

    Outside observers tend to view security concerns rationally, and as a national concern, based on the threat to the state or to the people as a whole.

    But in the Israel-Palestine conflict, people react to such fears emotionally, focusing first on their own safety. And the fear is ever-present – a rocket exploding in my house, or my child being shot at by a sniper on the way to school.

    These worries and experiences have been etched in the minds of generations of Palestinians and Israelis. We need to appreciate this fact to make sense of how both sides have dehumanised one another and excluded the “other” from their spheres of moral concern, particularly following the October 7 attack and in the weeks and months after.

    The late Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin, assassinated in 1995 by a Jewish extremist for engaging in peace efforts, once said you don’t make peace with friends, but with enemies.

    However, absent a minimum sense of safety and trust – if not in the other side, than at least in the mediators and future outside guarantors – the security arrangements required to sustain a peace agreement would be difficult, if not impossible, for both sides to agree on.



    Read more:
    10 books to help you understand Israel and Palestine, recommended by experts

    Entrenched views and dangerous simplifications

    As the war in Gaza has not yet ended, a detailed assessment of the successes and failures of the campaign for a Palestinian state is still ahead of us.

    During the fighting, misinformation and disinformation have been rife. With both sides waging a propaganda war, the manipulation of facts ratcheted up divisions and increased polarisation between “pro-Israel” and “pro-Palestine” groups across the globe.

    Selectively embracing information that could validate one’s own position and omitting or rejecting everything else have become the norm.

    Once we choose a side, we can go to great lengths to defend its actions. Our conditioned responses challenge or cast doubt on any claim or information put forth by the other side. And the more emotionally invested we become, the harder it is for us to empathise with the suffering of the “other”.

    Simplistic misconceptions, for example, that an aggressor cannot also be a victim or vice versa, have added fuel to the fire and to the conflict’s polarisation. This has had negative consequences for empathy, reconciliation, trust and peace-building.

    We could debate without end who has suffered more. But how useful would that be, at this stage, for the prospects of a future peace?

    Despite the strong emphasis in the global debate on the “pro-Palestinian” versus “pro-Israeli” dichotomy, an important reality is that meeting the basic needs of one side could never be achieved without addressing those of the other.

    These needs for peace, safety, security and dignity are mutual. As such, they should be promoted in the public debate over the incompatible needs ramped up by minorities in the two camps.

    Rather than taking sides, efforts should focus on reconciling both parties’ objectives: a ceasefire in Gaza, an end to the unjust occupation, self-determination for Palestinians, and safety and security for Israelis.

    As the future welfare of one side is inextricably linked to the security needs of the other, zero-sum solutions won’t achieve anything. Rather, they will only fan the suspicions, animosities and victimhood grievances on both sides, and lead to more violence.



    Read more:
    Why is the Gaza war tearing us apart?

    It’s the world’s turn

    Most Palestinians and Israelis have lost what little desire or capacity they had prior to October 7 for trusting or empathising with the misery of the other. The anger, fear and suffering today are too overwhelming.

    In the short term, meaningful solutions must come from the outside.

    In addition to a critically needed change of leadership on both sides, it is time for more sincere collaborative efforts by key states in the international community.

    It is time to replace years of empty condemnations with more meaningful and sustained commitments.

    It is time to help both societies, through carrots but also strong sticks, to free themselves from the chokeholds of illusory, all-or-nothing radical ideologies that have brought so much suffering and devastation to all.

    It is time for a better future for both Palestinian and Israeli children, even at the price of painful concessions. And concessions will have to be made on both sides for the promise of a lasting peace.

    To pressure governments to do more, protests should continue, but their voices should call for peace for all and against harming innocents on all sides, regardless of who they are.

    Peace, or at this stage an end to violence, has to come first – even if this would slow down (not prevent!) accountability and justice for all victims.

    Hate comes easily in the face of injustices. It is hard to empathise with the misfortunes of “others” who may or may not have brought their miseries upon themselves. But selective denunciation of crimes perpetrated by the other side, based on one’s support or rejection of a cause, is not only morally flawed, but counterproductive.

    Those who have been severely aggrieved by this human tragedy may struggle to apply the same yardstick to others, certainly in the near future. But the rest of us can, and should, do better.

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

    – ref. A year of devastation: with hope and trust shattered, what can bring an end to the violence in Israel-Palestine? – https://theconversation.com/a-year-of-devastation-with-hope-and-trust-shattered-what-can-bring-an-end-to-the-violence-in-israel-palestine-239204

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Australia has an extraordinary 13 million spare bedrooms. Here’s how to use at least some of them to ease the housing crisis

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lyndall Bryant, Lecturer in Property Economics, Queensland University of Technology

    While there’s little relief in sight for Australia’s housing crisis, with new projects years away from completion, there appear to be as many as 13 million unused spare bedrooms across the country.

    In a new briefing paper for the QUT Centre for Justice I suggest that, at least in the interim, these spare rooms ought to be part of the solution.

    Here’s where you find them. The census says about 3.2 million Australian homes have one spare bedroom, another 3 million have two spare rooms and 1.2 million have three spare bedrooms or more.

    They are more common in the homes of older than younger Australians.

    A survey by the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute found that more than three-quarters of homeowners aged 74 and older had spare rooms compared to less than two-thirds of homeowners aged 55 and younger.

    These older owners are often “asset rich and income poor”. Most rely at least in part on the age pension and could do with the income that would come from renting out a room, so long as it didn’t cut into their pension or present them with a capital gains tax bill when their home is eventually sold.

    My work suggests these fears are largely unfounded, even though it’s hard to convince many older Australians of that.

    Rent needn’t mean income tax

    The Tax Office has long provided for “domestic arrangements” and other arrangements where board and lodging provided at non-commercial rates is not considered assessable income for taxation purposes.

    The downside is that expenses are not tax deductible.

    These arrangements are said to occur when all residents including the owner bear an appropriate proportion of the costs actually incurred on food, electricity, heating and other costs of running the home.

    “Homestay” for international students is an example. Homestay hosts can receive about $350 per week for providing a fully furnished room, main meals and utilities in an arrangement the Tax Office has ruled need not be taxable.

    Rent needn’t cut off the pension

    All pensioners are currently eligible for the work bonus scheme that allows additional earnings of up to $504 a fortnight for singles and $660 per fortnight for couples without loss of any pension.

    It ought to be easy enough to apply the scheme to rent as well as income from work, as it arguably already does given that renting out spare bedrooms is a form of self-employment and hence “work”.

    As important would be making pensioners aware of any changes or clarifications to the rules in a way that normalised “taking in boarders”.

    Rent needn’t mean capital gains tax

    Anecdotal evidence suggests homeowners fear that renting out a spare bedroom will make their home liable for the capital gains tax that applies to rented properties when they are eventually sold.

    While this may be true in some situations, it is somewhat of an urban myth, and the amounts of tax involved can be small.

    According to the Tax Office

    • capital gains tax only applies to properties bought after September 20 1985

    • any gain is taxed only at the marginal rate in the year the property is sold

    • only half of each gain is taxed

    • gains can be offset against capital losses

    • only the net gain is taxed after costs.

    And capital gains tax only applies for the portion of the home that is rented out, and for the portion of time it is rented out.

    In my paper I explain how an apparent capital gain of $100,000 is taxed less where a room is only let for one year in five and is one of three bedrooms in the home, cutting the taxable capital gain to just $3,333.

    If the very concept of the calculation remains a barrier, it might be possible to offer homeowners who let out rooms a short-term “capital gains tax holiday” for the next three to five years while new housing stock is being built.

    Rules for safety and boarder matching essential

    Another barrier is concern about safety, both personal and financial for older homeowners. Surprisingly, there are few rules governing boarding, with tenancy legislation saying little, forcing homeowners and tenants to rely on common law.

    Australians letting out rooms need legislated protections from elder abuse and spurious claims of cohabitation and other rights.

    Tenant matching and management systems could make the process simpler.

    Imagine being able to walk into your local real estate agency and list your spare room to rent. If the agency offered boarder management services you could outline your preferences and ask it to put forward a list of candidates to interview.

    Good matches would provide benefits for both older Australians and younger companions. Boarder management could become a new business model for real estate agents as well as non-profits.

    Please note: This article does not provide tax or financial advice. It is general in nature and should not be relied on for taxation or financial purposes.

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

    – ref. Australia has an extraordinary 13 million spare bedrooms. Here’s how to use at least some of them to ease the housing crisis – https://theconversation.com/australia-has-an-extraordinary-13-million-spare-bedrooms-heres-how-to-use-at-least-some-of-them-to-ease-the-housing-crisis-239490

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Australia is hosting the world’s first ‘nature positive’ summit. What is it, and why does it matter?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Andrew Lowe, Director, Environment Institute, University of Adelaide

    MPIX, Shutterstock

    This week, Australia hosts the inaugural Global Nature Positive Summit in Sydney. It comes at a crucial time: biodiversity loss and ecosystem collapse is one of the biggest risks the world faces in the next decade.

    The event, which begins tomorrow, brings together leaders from government, business, academia, environment groups and Indigenous Peoples. Together, they will seek ways to drive investment in nature and improve its protection and repair.

    More than half the world’s economy directly depends on nature. Biodiversity loss threatens global financial stability, putting at least US$44 trillion (A$64 trillion) of economic value at risk.

    Industries such as agriculture, fishing, forestry, tourism, water and resources rely heavily on nature. But ultimately, all of humanity depends on the natural world – for clean air, water, food, and a liveable climate.

    In Australia significant investment is needed to reverse the decline in our natural environment. It will require action from governments, landholders and the private sector.

    That’s why this week’s summit is so important. Nature conservation and restoration is expensive and often difficult. The task is beyond the capacity of governments alone.

    What’s going on at the summit?

    According to the World Economic Forum, “nature positive” is an economic worldview that goes beyond limiting environmental damage and aims to actually improve ecosystems.

    Under the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, to which almost 200 countries have signed up, at least 30% of land and waters must be protected or restored by 2030. The summit is exploring ways to realise this global commitment, which is also known as the 30×30 target.

    The federal and New South Wales governments are co-hosting the event.

    Federal Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek will address the summit on day one, outlining her government’s Nature Positive Plan. It commits to the 30×30 target as well as “zero new extinctions”. Achieving these commitments involves environmental law reform, setting up a Nature Repair Market and establishing a national Environment Protection Agency.

    Delegates are expected to demonstrate their commitment and progress towards the 30×30 goal. They will then turn to the main point of the summit: building consensus on the economic settings needed to increase private investment in nature.

    Finance models and corporate partnerships are on the agenda, along with how to make this work, including how to measure, monitor and report on progress and manage risk.

    Sessions will focus on specific sectors of the environment such as agriculture and farming, cities, oceans and forests. On Thursday, delegates will visit nature sites around Sydney.

    Creating a market to incentivise biodiversity investment | 7.30.

    Investing in a market for nature repair

    Substantial co-investment from the private sector, including landholders, will be required to repair and protect nature at the scale required.

    Market-based approaches can drive private investment in natural resources. But most existing environmental markets focus on water and carbon. A more holistic approach, including nature repair, is needed.

    Australia’s Nature Positive Plan includes building a nature repair market. This world-first measure is a legislated, national, voluntary biodiversity market in which individuals and organisations undertake nature repair projects to generate a tradeable certificate. The certificate can be sold to generate income. Demand for certificates is expected to grow over time.

    But the role the government will take remains unclear. For example, will the government both regulate market prices and decide what, in a scientific sense, amounts to repairing nature?

    On day two, the summit explores how nature markets can unlock new sources of finance. We can expect this discussion to include ways carbon and biodiversity markets can work together: so-called “carbon-plus” outcomes.

    For example, when landholders conserve vegetation, the plants can both draw carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and provide habitat for animals, preventing biodiversity loss. Markets could be designed so landholders are rewarded for achieving these dual results.

    Significant economic returns

    Under optimistic estimates, the global nature-positive transition will unlock business opportunities worth an estimated US$10 trillion (almost A$15 trillion) a year and create 395 million jobs by 2030.

    The potential benefits for Australia are also substantial. They include benefits to nature such as restoring habitat for wildlife, while storing carbon. It can also provide returns for agriculture, by improving land value, yield and quality.

    A strong nature-positive stance from Australia will also help safeguard our access to global markets. For example, the European Union has already established trade barriers to imports that damage forests. This could have serious consequences for the Australian beef industry.

    So the potential benefits have to be weighed against the risks of not doing anything. The summit is a chance to get a wide range of people on board, working towards a shared vision of a more positive future.

    It’s time for a nature-positive mindset

    The Albanese Labor government came to power promising to overhaul Australia’s national environment laws, following a scathing independent review.

    When the summit was conceived, the government may have envisaged having cause for celebration by now. But some proposed reforms stalled in the Senate.

    Nonetheless, the Nature Repair Market, a significant government win, is taking shape.

    This week’s summit offers Australia an opportunity to show the world we have embraced the nature-positive mindset. There really is no time to waste.

    Australia, the sixth most biodiverse country in the world, has listed 2,224 species and ecological communities as threatened with extinction. These losses are predicted to escalate if we continue business as usual and allow continued decline of ecosystems.

    Despite having pledged to end deforestation by 2030, Australia is the only deforestation hotspot among developed nations. Land clearing continues apace in northern Australia, often without being assessed under national environmental laws.

    We desperately need to reverse the decline in nature, once and for all.

    Andrew Lowe receives funding from a range of national and international funding sources including the Australian Research Council, Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research, The International Tropical Timber Organization.

    This article was crafted following conversations with the Advisory Committee of the Nature Positive Economy CRC bid, including Daisy Mallett – Lawyer / International Abitrator; Ian Overton – Principal, Natural Economy Consulting; Professor Hugh Possingham – University of Queensland; Nicki Hutley – Climate Council; Cheryl Hayman – Beston Global Food Company; Robert Waterworth – FLINTPro; Kate Andrews – NRM Regions Australia; Tim King – Melior Investment Management; Peter Boyd – Rozetta Institute; David Shelmerdine – ClimateWorks; Wendy Mackay – Pollination Group; Tim Jarvis – Fauna & Flora International; Jody Gunn – Australian Land Conservation Alliance; Joshua Bishop – University of Sydney; Phil Duncan – University of Canberra; Dr Paul Dalby – Rozetta Project Director.

    – ref. Australia is hosting the world’s first ‘nature positive’ summit. What is it, and why does it matter? – https://theconversation.com/australia-is-hosting-the-worlds-first-nature-positive-summit-what-is-it-and-why-does-it-matter-236236

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Fast track list reveals Govt’s backroom deals

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    The coalition Government’s backroom deals with coal and ironsands mining companies have finally been revealed – and it’s not pretty.

    “The coalition Government has just confirmed a line-up of projects that could wreak havoc on our natural environment,” Labour’s acting environment spokesperson David Parker said.

    “The list includes previously rejected projects like Trans-Tasman Resources’ seabed mining and the Waitaha Hydro Project – both rejected for their adverse effects on the environment. 

    “It’s now clear why the Government has hidden this list for so long.

    “We’ve seen worrying cases like the Ōhinemuri River turning orange due to arsenic from an old mine. Dozens of other contaminated sites, many from mining, are still waiting to be cleaned up at the cost of New Zealanders, not the polluters.

    “More than 100 projects were approved under Labour’s version of fast track without overriding environmental laws. This included projects for renewable energy, transmission, housing, roads and retirement villages.

    “This time it is different – environmental protections under the Resource Management Act, the Conservation Act, the Wildlife Act and the Mining Act can and will be overridden. There is no credible explanation for conferring those wide powers to override those Acts.  

    “This backwards move is irresponsible, and will undermine our clean-green reputation, which underlies the premium price New Zealand gets for our milk and meat exports.

    “The tens of thousands of New Zealanders who marched in protest against the Fast Track Bill are right to be disappointed,” David Parker said.

    Stay in the loop by signing up to our mailing list and following us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI: Disclosure of Voting Rights in IDEX Biometrics to Chair, Morten Opstad – 06 Oct 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    At the close of business on 04 October 2024, Morten Opstad, chair of the board of IDEX Biometrics, held the following voting rights in IDEX, for the extraordinary general meeting on 09 October 2024.

    Total 96,929,296 shares or 22.01% of the share capital and votes, including shares held by Mr. Opstad and close relations.

    Some of the proxies may include voting instructions.

    Contact person
    Marianne Bøe, Head of Investor Relations
    E-mail: ir@idexbiometrics.com
    Tel: +47 67 83 91 19

    About IDEX Biometrics
    IDEX Biometrics ASA (OSE: IDEX) is a global technology leader in fingerprint biometrics, offering authentication solutions across payments, access control, and digital identity.  Our solutions bring convenience, security, peace of mind and seamless user experiences to the world. Built on patented and proprietary sensor technologies, integrated circuit designs, and software, our biometric solutions target card-based applications for payments and digital authentication. As an industry-enabler we partner with leading card manufacturers and technology companies to bring our solutions to market.

    For more information, visit http://www.idexbiometrics.com (http://www.idexbiometrics.com)

    About this notice
    This notice was issued by Marianne Bøe, Head of Investor Relations, on 06 October 2024 at 22:45 CET on behalf of IDEX Biometrics ASA. The information shall be disclosed according to section 4‑2 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act (STA) and published in accordance with section 5-12 the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why heart patients have trouble sticking to a healthy diet, and 3 things that help them eat better

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Gabriela Ghisi, Affiliate Scientist, KITE Research Institute, Adjunct Professor, Department of Physical Therapy, University of Toronto

    Following nutritional recommendations is vital for managing cardiovascular disease, but it’s not always easy, especially for those with limited resources. (Shutterstock)

    Cardiovascular disease remains a leading cause of death worldwide, and managing it effectively requires more than just medical intervention: what you eat plays a crucial role in your heart’s health.

    For cardiac patients, following nutritional recommendations isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a lifeline. A heart-healthy diet can help control risk factors like high blood pressure, cholesterol levels and obesity, all of which are key contributors to heart disease.

    For cardiac patients, following nutritional recommendations isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a lifeline.
    (Shutterstock)

    A healthy diet will help you prevent new heart problems, which is called secondary prevention, and it will help improve functional capacity and quality of life, giving you more independence for daily activities. But for many patients, adhering to these dietary guidelines can be a significant challenge even while they are in a cardiac rehabilitation program. This is especially challenging for those who live in low-resourced settings (areas or communities with few resources and little support for health and wellness).



    Read more:
    Cardiac rehab is a proven but underused therapy in women, but tailored resources aim to change that

    Cardiac rehab is an interdisciplinary approach focused on interventions for secondary prevention and improving cardiovascular prognosis, to reduce the global impact of cardiovascular disease. We recently conducted a study aimed at understanding the barriers and facilitators that low-resourced patients face when trying to follow nutritional recommendations in cardiac rehab.

    The findings underscore how critical, yet complex, it is for patients to maintain a heart-healthy diet. The results of this study are not just informative — they are a call to action for health-care providers, policymakers and communities alike.

    The cost of healthy eating

    Many heart-healthy foods — like fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins — can be expensive, especially for individuals or families living on a tight budget.
    (Shutterstock)

    One of the primary barriers we identified is the cost of healthy foods. Many heart-healthy foods — like fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins — can be expensive, especially for individuals or families living on a tight budget. In low-income areas, access to these foods is often limited, with more affordable but less healthy options readily available.



    Read more:
    Why are grocery bills so high? A new study looks at the science behind food price reporting

    This economic reality makes it difficult for patients to consistently choose foods that support their heart health. In the last few years the cost of healthy food in Canada, a high-income setting, has been rising due to high food inflation. Despite that, the current Canada’s Food Guide is less expensive for adults to follow compared to the previous ones.

    Another significant barrier is the complexity of nutritional information. Patients are often bombarded with a wealth of dietary guidelines, which can be confusing and overwhelming. Without proper guidance, including education and individualization, it’s easy for someone to feel lost or discouraged, particularly if they lack basic nutritional knowledge. This can lead to frustration and, ultimately, poor adherence to dietary recommendations.

    Cultural factors also play a role. In many cases, traditional diets may not align with the standard dietary guidelines recommended for heart health. Patients may find it challenging to adapt their eating habits without feeling like they are losing an important part of their cultural identity. This disconnect can make it even harder for patients to stick to a heart-healthy diet.

    Empowering patients to eat better

    Despite these challenges, our study also highlighted several facilitators that can make a significant difference. One of the most effective is community support. Programs that provide affordable access to healthy foods, like food banks or community gardens, can help alleviate some of the financial pressures.

    Additionally, accessible information sources that break down complex nutritional advice into simple, actionable steps can empower patients to make healthier choices.

    Programs that provide affordable access to healthy foods, like food banks or community gardens, can help alleviate some of the financial pressures of healthy eating.
    (Shutterstock)

    Importantly, incorporating culturally relevant foods into dietary plans can make the transition to a heart-healthy diet more manageable and acceptable. When patients see that their traditional foods can be part of their diet, they are more likely to embrace and maintain the recommended changes.

    Our findings emphasize the importance of a tailored approach to nutritional guidance in cardiac rehab, especially for low-resourced patients. It’s not enough to simply tell patients what to eat — health-care providers need to listen and understand the unique challenges patients face and provide practical, sustainable solutions. This means working closely with patients, offering personalized advice that considers their financial situation, providing access to resources and considering cultural preferences.

    Making heart-healthy diets accessible

    The implications of our research extend beyond individual patient care. They highlight the need for systemic changes that make healthy eating more accessible for everyone. This could include policies that subsidize healthy foods, increase the availability of fresh produce in underserved areas or create educational programs that are accessible to all.

    Following nutritional recommendations is vital for managing cardiovascular disease, but it’s not always easy, especially for those with limited resources. Identifying and addressing the specific barriers these patients face can help them make lasting, positive changes to their diet and, ultimately, their heart health.

    This research underscores the need for a more equitable approach to health care, one that ensures all patients have the support they need to live healthier, longer lives.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Why heart patients have trouble sticking to a healthy diet, and 3 things that help them eat better – https://theconversation.com/why-heart-patients-have-trouble-sticking-to-a-healthy-diet-and-3-things-that-help-them-eat-better-239172

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: YORK – Commission on Crime and Delinquency Joins Victim Service Agencies to Highlight Support for Survivors of Domestic Violence and 2024-25 Shapiro-Davis Budget Investment for Victims Compensation

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    October 07, 2024 – York, PA

    ADVISORY – YORK – Commission on Crime and Delinquency Joins Victim Service Agencies to Highlight Support for Survivors of Domestic Violence and 2024-25 Shapiro-Davis Budget Investment for Victims Compensation

    In honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) will visit the York County Victim/Witness Unit to highlight the support and services offered to survivors of domestic violence and importance of the $5 million investment in the Victims Compensation Assistance Program (VCAP) in the Shapiro-Davis 2024-25 state budget.

    WHO:
    Kathy Buckley, Director of Victims’ Services, PCCD
    Faith I. Uhler-Myers, Deputy Administrator, York County DA’s Office Victim/Witness Unit
    Paula Copeland, Chief Services Officer, YWCA York
    Sarah Harvey, Director, YWCA Hanover Safe Home

    WHEN:
    October 7, 2024 at 1:30 PM.

    WHERE:
    York County Administrative Center
    28 E Market Street
    Commissioners’ Meeting Room, 2nd floor
    York, PA 17401

    RSVP: Please email algantz@pa.gov to share the reporter’s name and media outlet who wishes to attend.

    Photos and video will be available on

      • Full Advisory

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Canada has always had a ‘tap on, tap off’ immigration policy aimed primarily at filling jobs

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Thomas Klassen, Professor, School of Public Policy and Administration, York University, Canada

    The federal government will soon announce its immigration plan and immigration levels for the next three years. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s Liberals have already signalled, however, that the number of immigrants will decline from the levels of the past several years.

    The government has been under fire for its immigration policy and must move carefully with a federal election likely next year. The increase in housing costs is cited by critics as consequence of too many immigrants arriving in Canada over a short period of time.



    Read more:
    What’s behind the dramatic shift in Canadian public opinion about immigration levels?

    Sharp increases and decreases in the number of immigrants are nothing new in Canada’s history. Historically, immigration policy has been “tap on, tap off,” with immigration levels increased when the unemployment rate falls and reduced when unemployment rises. Immigration has always been thinly veiled labour market policy; that is, a way to fill jobs.

    Influx of immigrants

    In 1913, an estimated 400,900 immigrants arrived in Canada, accounting for five per cent of the country’s population. At that time, the government sought farmers to settle the Prairies and allow the western expansion of Canada.

    It took more than a century — until 2021 under Trudeau — before a larger number of immigrants was accepted in a single year; 406,000 were admitted.

    But those who came in 2021 accounted for only one per cent of the nation’s much larger population, rather than five per cent in 1913.

    When the Liberals came to power in late 2015, the national unemployment rate was seven per cent and dropping. By 2019, it was under six per cent, a level not experienced for nearly half a century.

    The economy was humming with low unemployment and inflation, allowing the immigration tap to be turned on. From 2017-19, 300,000 immigrants were accepted each year, but from 2021 to 2023, that increased to a record high of about 430,000 annually.

    In the past decade, employers have benefited from high levels of immigration and voiced few complaints. Businesses know that labour costs are kept low when immigrants flood into the job market.

    International students

    What has made the nation’s immigration policy distinct under Trudeau is that the tap has also been turned on for international students. These students are not immigrants, but rather are allowed to enter Canada and, initially, remain only during the time they are studying.

    In the past several decades Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States have become extraordinarily attractive for college and university students.

    Middle-class families in China, India, Brazil and other countries are willing to spend what is required to send their children to study abroad.

    Universities and colleges covet international students as a source of income since they pay twice or more what local students pay in tuition.

    The additional income earned by post-secondary institutions from international students has allowed provincial governments to limit tuition fee increases for Canadian students. For example, the Ontario government reduced tuition fees by 10 per cent in 2019 and has kept tuition frozen for local students ever since.

    Permanent citizenship pathways

    When the Liberals came to power, there were about 300,000 international students in Canada. Last year, that number reached one million. Immigration rules were tweaked in the past decade to open paths to permanent citizenship for some international students and their families.

    Some believe the combination of high immigration rates and a large number of international students has created an unsustainable situation as housing costs in many parts of Canada increase significantly over the past several years.



    Read more:
    International students are not to blame for Canada’s housing crisis

    Suddenly, earlier this year, the federal government placed limits on the number of student visas it would issue annually to reduce the flow of students coming from abroad. Provinces and educational institutions were furious, especially by the lack of advance notice and the loss of expected revenues.

    However, rapid swings in immigration policy are a feature of Canada’s history. After welcoming 400,000 immigrants in 1913, only 10 per cent of that number were granted entry five years later.

    Sharp U-turns

    The causes that necessitated the recent sharp U-turn in the number of international student visas — and limiting the pathways to students and their dependants to become immigrants — are instructive.

    The federal government ignored the fact that colleges and universities were not equipped for the massive ramp-up of foreign student enrolment. Some post-secondary institutions, particularly those operated for profit, took advantage of incoming students by providing sub-standard education.

    A closer monitoring of the impact of high numbers of international students would have allowed the federal government to more gradually adjust the visa tap. More consultation between all levels of government would have permitted problems to quickly reach the appropriate decision-makers.

    Moving forward, the federal government would do well to better monitor the impacts of immigration levels. More consultation with other levels of government, employers and stakeholders will result in more gradual adjustments to the number of newcomers who are — and always have been — critical to Canada’s economic and cultural successes.

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

    – ref. Canada has always had a ‘tap on, tap off’ immigration policy aimed primarily at filling jobs – https://theconversation.com/canada-has-always-had-a-tap-on-tap-off-immigration-policy-aimed-primarily-at-filling-jobs-239896

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Unlocking the potential of ethnic businesses

    Source: New Zealand Government

    This week’s inaugural Ethnic Xchange Symposium will explore the role that ethnic communities and businesses can play in rebuilding New Zealand’s economy, Ethnic Communities Minister Melissa Lee says.

    “One of my top priorities as Minister is unlocking the economic potential of New Zealand’s ethnic businesses,” says Ms Lee.

    “Ethnic communities contributed an estimated $64 billion to New Zealand’s economy in 2021. Ethnic communities are also the fastest-growing population group in New Zealand, tripling in size since 1996, and our country’s migrant employment rate is the highest within the OECD.

    “It’s clear that there’s vibrant potential within our ethnic communities. This symposium focuses on unleashing that potential.”

    The symposium, delivered by the Ministry for Ethnic Communities, brings together Government and business, community, and industry experts to discuss how we can supercharge the economy through boosting trade, investment, and innovation.

    In addition to Ms Lee, ministers speaking at the symposium include Finance Minister Nicola Willis; Regulation Minister David Seymour; and Science, Innovation and Technology Minister Judith Collins KC.

    “Given this Government’s goal of doubling the value of our exports within 10 years, it is fitting that one of the symposium’s core themes is how ethnic businesses may support New Zealand’s trading aspirations, as they bring expertise in navigating overseas markets and international business environments,” says Ms Lee.

    “While their contributions are significant, many ethnic businesses still face challenges such as policy and regulatory barriers, access to finance, and cultural differences. This means they often cannot fully contribute to our economy, although they have the ambition and aspirations to do so.

    “I’m looking forward to the discussions at the symposium as we find solutions to unlock the full potential of ethnic businesses for the benefit of New Zealand.”

    The Ethnic Xchange Symposium is on this Friday, 11 October in Auckland. More information, and tickets, are available at https://ethnicxchange.org.nz/

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on State Preparedness Efforts for Tropical Storm Milton

    Source: US State of Florida

    TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Today, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Florida Division of Emergency Management Executive Director Kevin Guthrie at the State Emergency Operations Center to provide updates on preparedness efforts for Tropical Storm Milton.

    As of 8 a.m., Tropical Storm Milton is located about 860 miles west-southwest of Tampa, Florida, with maximum sustained wind gusts near 60 mph. Milton is forecast to move across the Gulf of Mexico and approach the west coast of Florida by midweek.

    Governor DeSantis issued Executive Order 24-215, amending EO 24-214 and declaring a state of emergency for 51 counties.

    To learn more about navigating hurricane season, residents can visit FloridaDisaster.org/Guide. For updates on county resources available visit FloridaDisaster.org/Counties for a list of all 67 county emergency management contacts.

    State Preparedness Efforts

    • The Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) has activated the State Emergency Operations Center to Level 1 since Tuesday, September 24, for Hurricane Helene, and is at a Level 1 for Tropical Storm Milton as of today, October 6, leading coordination efforts for the State Emergency Response Team.
    • The Florida Department of Veteran’s Affairs (FDVA) storm preparations are underway at all State Veterans’ Nursing Homes in anticipation of Tropical Storm Milton’s landfall.
    • The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) is performing maintenance on all equipment deployed during Hurricane Helene to ensure it is ready for use in Tropical Storm Milton.
    • FDLE Regional Operations Centers in Tampa and Fort Myers are establishing their Regional Law Enforcement Coordination Teams (RLECT).
    • FDLE agents working Operation Blue Ridge are demobilizing to respond to Tropical Storm Milton. Maintenance is being conducted on equipment returning from North Carolina.
    • The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has readied high-water vehicles and all other storm response resources statewide so they may be rapidly deployed to assist Floridians in need in the event of damage or flooding. Contingency plans based on forecasted landfall locations have been developed and remain flexible based on the storm’s projected path.
    • FWC officers are ready to deploy and respond with a variety of specialized equipment as necessary, such as:
      • Airboats
      • Shallow draft boats
      • ATVs/Side-by-sides
      • Larger platform vessels
      • Four-wheel vehicles
    • FWC Special Operations Group (SOG) teams will serve as reconnaissance units for the state and report on damage after the storm has made landfall.
    • FWC Aviation Section has been placed on standby and has readied all appropriate aircraft for potential deployment for aerial assistance, reconnaissance, and post-storm damage assessments when needed.

    Health and Human Services

    • The Florida Department of Health’s (DOH) deployed over 200 emergency response vehicles on the I4 Corridor in preparation for the storm.
    • The Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) has initiated an event in the Health Facility Reporting System (HFRS). Health care providers in the have been requested to provide information on census, available beds, evacuation status, accepting evacuees and generator needs from counties declared under EO-24-114. This information allows AHCA to assist healthcare providers in transferring patients if needed and ensure that health care providers in impacted areas have the necessary resources and adequate power.
    • The Department of Elder Affairs (DOEA) is contacting all our Area Agencies on Aging partners to receive updates on their ongoing preparation efforts and gather the status of any unmet needs.
    • The Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) will continue to host calls with APD leadership, regional and facilities to brief them on Tropical Storm Milton and provide updates on protective actions, the status of clients and residents, and anticipated unmet needs in potentially affected areas.

    Infrastructure, Roads and State Closures

    • The Florida Department of Transportation’s (FDOT) Tropical Storm Milton statewide preparedness efforts include clearing shoulders in preparation for potential Emergency Should Use (ESU):
      • Currently analyzing flooding vulnerabilities for major roadways and bridges.
      • Inspecting and clearing drainage systems, monitoring flood-prone and currently saturated areas, and pre-positioning pumps as appropriate.
      • Securing high mast lighting, maintenance yards, active construction projects, rest areas/welcome centers, service plazas, and weigh stations that had returned to normal since Hurricane Helene.
      • Replenishing fuel reserves, checking generator readiness, and pre-positioning assets as appropriate.
      • Completing repairs on malfunctioning vehicles and equipment in preparation for deployment.
      • Initiated communication with modal partners – seaports, airports, railroads, transit, and spaceports. All partners are currently in monitoring posture.
      • Staging ITS trailers, as well as drone teams and equipment are being prepped and ready to deploy as needed.
    • FDOT has removed over 53,339 cubic yards of debris to date.
    • FDOT encourages drivers to download the FL511 app or visit FL511.com for road/bridge closures and potential detours that may be activated. Remember to always follow the direction of local law enforcement and emergency personnel.
    • FDOT is supporting our local communities with supplemental sand and debris removal from local roads on the barrier islands in Pinellas and Manatee counties.
    • At the direction of Gov. DeSantis, FDOT is coordinating debris removal assignments for the Florida National Guard, Florida State Guard, Florida Highway Patrol, amongst others, who have activated available state personnel and resources to clear and haul remaining debris.
    • In preparation for Tropical Storm Milton, FDOT’s out-of-state deployed resources have begun to transition back to Florida operations.
    • The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is coordinating with EPA’s Landfill Strike Teams to provide technical support and assistance for these sites. For counties and local governments in need of additional debris disposal locations, especially ahead of this new storm, DEP has approved all DDMS site requests.
    • Currently, 186 Disaster Debris Management Sites (DDMS) have been authorized to operate for Hurricane Helene.
    • Hurricane Helene kicked up significant amounts of sediment and sand along the coastlines in and along its path. DEP is working with local governments to manage the excess sand and continue removal efforts.
    • For sand that has accumulated on private properties, residents should return it to the beach if it appears clean, smells fresh and is free of debris. If the sand contains debris, residents should contact their local government to find the nearest disposal site. DEP has worked with counties to establish temporary staging areas to properly screen the sand before it is returned to the beach.
    • DEP is working with Florida’s Water/Wastewater Agency Response Network (FlaWARN), the Florida Rural Water Association and other response agencies to ensure preparations are underway to support drinking and wastewater facilities ahead of the anticipated heavy rains.
    • Florida’s water management districts are engaging local governments and drainage operators throughout the state and are available to provide technical and other support, including deploying temporary pumps to alleviate localized flooding. As part of standard operations, DEP and Florida’s water management districts continue to monitor water systems and river levels as the storm develops.
    • Currently, no Florida State Parks are closed because of this anticipated storm. For updates on state parks affected by Hurricane Helene or Tropical Storm Milton, please visit: FloridaStateParks.org/StormUpdates.
    • The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) is staging high-water rescue vehicles in preparation for landfall.
    • FHP is prepared to deploy up to 120 Quick Response Force (QRF) Troopers to affected areas.
    • FHP is assisting with traffic control in St. Petersburg.
    • FHP air support and drone assets are staged and prepared to deploy when needed.
    • The Florida Department of Education (DOE) is actively monitoring Tropical Storm Milton and is working with school districts as they begin preparation efforts. The Department is also in close contact with districts that have been impacted by Hurricane Helene and will assist them with addressing critical needs ahead of the storm. Updates on school closures can be found at FLDOE.org/storminfo.

    Resources for Employees, Businesses and Consumers

    • The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) is staging assets and personnel across 13 offices statewide and is prepared to surge resources to areas impacted by Hurricane Helene that receive a second impact from Tropical Storm Milton.
    • Updates on business closures and business resources are consistently being updated at FloridaDisaster.biz.
    • FloridaCommerce activated the private sector hotline at (850) 815-4925, open daily 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Inquiries may also be emailed to ESF18@em.myflorida.com.
    • FloridaCommerce is hosting daily private sector coordination calls. Briefings will be provided by Emergency Support Functions and private sector partners. For call information email ESF18@em.myflorida.com.
    • VISIT FLORIDA Emergency Accommodation Modules on Expedia, Priceline and Booking.com will remain available to provide real-time hotel availability and lodging resources for impacted Floridians and visitors.
    • The Florida Small Business Development Center Network (SBDC) has pulled their Helene Mobile Assistance Centers from the field and will redeploy once storm conditions have passed.Follow FDEM on X, Instagram, and Facebook for updates and visit FloridaDisaster.org/Updates for information relating to Tropical Storm Milton.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Could NZ foreign policy be Trumped? Why the government will be hoping Kamala Harris wins the US election

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Robert G. Patman, Professor of International Relations, University of Otago

    Getty Images

    One of the political ironies of the race for the White House is that the foreign policy interests of New Zealand’s centre-right government are probably best served by Democratic candidate Kamala Harris winning.

    Since the end of World War II, all New Zealand governments have supported multilateralism and an international rules-based order enshrined in the institutions of the United Nations.

    The relationship with the United States has reflected that, and tends to outlast the periodic fluctuations associated with changes in government and policy in Wellington or Washington.

    New Zealand’s current National-led coalition inherited close relations with the US, too. American visitor numbers were second only to Australians last year. The US is our third largest export market. And the two countries remain strategically linked within the Five Eyes intelligence sharing arrangement.

    Nevertheless, one of the key foreign policy goals of the coalition is to strengthen alignment with traditional allies such as the US. Given the very different worldviews of Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, the November 5 election will have a large bearing on how successful any push for closer relations with the US can be.

    Closer relations in the balance

    On the one hand, Republican candidate Trump is opposed to multilateral institutions, unless they explicitly serve US national interests. And he wants to reverse the impact of globalisation by constraining immigration, free trade and global governance.

    Nationalist slogans like “America First” promise a return to a so-called golden era of patriotism and sovereignty: a top-down world where the greatest power of all is unencumbered and free to assert its dominance.

    On the other hand, Harris would seem to support a more traditional US foreign policy agenda. This recognises the importance of international institutions and alliances in a world where “isolation is not insulation”.

    Whoever occupies the White House next, then, is likely to have a significant impact on New Zealand foreign policy.

    Isolation and dominance: Trump plays the immigration card at Republican National Convention in July 18.
    Getty Images

    Power plays and the Pacific

    First, Trump’s belief in an international system run by great powers would seem to be a recipe for depriving smaller states like New Zealand of a voice on international issues that affect them.

    Second, New Zealand’s regional focus on ties with Pacific Island nations – underpinned by close people-to-people links and a significant proportion of the country’s overseas development aid programme – is more likely to be complemented by a Harris foreign policy.

    Outgoing president Joe Biden reversed decades of US neglect of much of the Pacific, which had played to the advantage of other external powers – notably China.

    The Biden team launched the annual US-Pacific Islands Summit in 2022. And Kamala Harris played an active role in delivering US$800 million in development and climate assistance to Pacific Island nations in 2022-23.

    Whether Trump will maintain this enhanced diplomatic and economic engagement in the Pacific (and elsewhere) is questionable. Similarly, after Biden rejoined the Paris Climate Accord, Trump will probably quit it for a second time.

    Kamala Harris hosts Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House in September.
    Getty Images

    AUKUS and Ukraine

    Third, the New Zealand government faces the delicate task of navigating relations with an increasingly assertive China – the country’s biggest trade partner – while pursuing its goal of moving closer to the US.

    Since March 2023, successive New Zealand governments have been considering joining an arrangement to share advanced defence technologies under pillar two of the AUKUS security partnership that aims to deter a rising China in the Indo-Pacific region.

    It remains to be seen how China would react if New Zealand did join. But Trump’s insistence on US primacy in any multilateral agreement could make it more difficult for the government to win domestic support for pillar two membership.

    Even outside the AUKUS debate, Trump is more likely to insist allies spend more on defence than they did traditionally.

    Fourth, New Zealand has a big stake in the failure of Russia’s attempted annexation of Ukraine. Wellington’s interests are clearly more in line with Harris’ pledge to maintain support for Ukraine to restore its territorial integrity.

    Trump’s promise to end the war within 24 hours, on the other hand, could probably only be achieved by giving Vladimir Putin what he wants.

    The Middle East and the UN

    Finally, there do not seem to be substantive policy differences between Trump and Harris on the catastrophic situation in Gaza, and increasingly Lebanon.

    There remains a slim possibility a Harris administration might recognise unconditional support for the Israeli government of Benjamin Netanyahu is not sustainable for a superpower whose foreign policy is supposed to be driven by universal values and respect for international law.

    But this would be near impossible for Trump. Indeed, he would probably provide Netanyahu with even greater support.

    Overall, the foreign policy interests of the National-led coalition seem to align more with a Harris presidency than one led by Trump.

    But even if Harris wins, the alignment of interests will not be perfect. US exceptionalism – an informal ideology that claims the nation is a political exemplar for the rest of the world – and Washington’s veto power in the UN security Council are likely to remain constraining factors on the New Zealand-US relationship.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Could NZ foreign policy be Trumped? Why the government will be hoping Kamala Harris wins the US election – https://theconversation.com/could-nz-foreign-policy-be-trumped-why-the-government-will-be-hoping-kamala-harris-wins-the-us-election-240538

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Future-proofing State Highway 6, Rai Saddle in Marlborough

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    New resilience work will begin next week to help future-proof State Highway 6 on the Rai Saddle in Marlborough.

    Contractors will be on-site from Monday, 14 October, with work expected to continue until late November.

    Rob Service, System Manager Top of the South Island, says they will improve drainage and address under-slips by redirecting stormwater on three one-kilometre sections of the highway.

    “This will help mitigate the impact of bad weather and heavy rainfall on the highway between Nelson and Blenheim.”

    “Each section will be completed one at a time to reduce the impact on drivers, with crews starting at the top of the Rai Saddle and working their way down towards the Mt Richmond Estate Motels,” Mr Service says.

    He says contractors will install pipework, kerbs and barriers to redirect stormwater at each work site, which is critical in hillside areas like the Rai Saddle.

    “Making these improvements and increasing the highway’s resilience will help keep the road open in bad weather and help protect this critical state highway link between Nelson and Marlborough.”

    “It’s about making the highway stronger and better prepared for future disruption,” Mr Service says.

    During the work, one highway lane will remain open under stop/go temporary traffic management 24/7. A temporary speed limit of 30 km/h will also be in place. Road users can expect delays of up to five minutes.

    Mr Service says while the impact of this work on road users will be minimal, it’s important people with ferry connections or appointments plan ahead given other works currently underway on State Highway 6 between Nelson and Blenheim.

    “Allow yourself an extra 30 minutes to get over the hill to ensure you make your destination in time,” he says.

    The work on the Rai Saddle is funded by the Crown Resilience Programme, which is set up to cover the cost of resilience improvements on the state highway network and minimise damage from future weather events.

    Mr Service says two years ago, State Highway 6 had to be closed for major repairs following a major flood.

    “Locals know only too well how big an impact floods can have on their ability to get around. Investments like this can make a big difference,” Mr Service says.

    Works schedule

    • Stop/Go temporary traffic management and a temporary speed limit of 30km/h will be in place from Monday, 14 October to Friday, 22 November. 24/7.
    • No work on Labour Weekend (26-28 October) when the road will reopen to two lanes.
    • Work will be carried out on Marlborough Anniversary Day (Monday. 4 November).
    • There will be three, one-kilometre sections of work as part of this project. Each section will be completed one-at-a time.
    • Contractors will start at the top of the Rai Saddle and working their way down towards the Mt Richmond Estate Motels.
    • Expect delays of up to 5 minutes.

    Location

    More information

    • Resilience work is also underway on State Highway 63 as contractors increase the height of the road near the Wash Bridge. Other resilience work is also planned for State Highway 1 at Dashwood. More information about these projects will be shared before they get underway.
    • Crown Resilience Programme (formerly Transport Resilience Fund)

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Syzran Oil Refinery Completes Installation of Main Equipment at Sulfur Production Unit

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The Syzran Oil Refinery, which is part of the Rosneft oil refining unit, has completed the installation of reactors, receivers and a gas afterburner at the elemental sulfur production unit. The new equipment was manufactured by Russian companies. The reactor is 12 meters high, weighs about 36 tons, and has a diameter of over 3.5 meters. The receiver is 13 meters high and weighs 14 tons.

    Rosneft is implementing a large-scale program to modernize its refineries in Russia. Since the start of the program, more than 900 billion rubles have already been invested, construction/reconstruction projects for 23 main installations and oil refining complexes have been completed, which has allowed the Company to significantly increase the output of gasoline and diesel fuel of the 5th class and fully meet the needs of the domestic market.

    The elemental sulfur production unit will allow the utilization of hydrogen sulfide-containing gas, which is formed in oil refining processes. The unit will use the Claus oxidation method. The technology will ensure the overall degree of hydrogen sulfide utilization at a level of at least 99.8%.

    The elemental sulfur production unit complex is being built at the Syzran Oil Refinery as part of a modernization program together with the FCC catalytic cracking complex facilities, the launch of which will allow the enterprise to significantly increase the production volumes of high-octane gasolines.

    Reference:

    JSC Syzran Oil Refinery produces a wide range of high-quality petroleum products – motor gasoline and diesel fuel of the highest ecological class, low-sulfur marine fuel RMLS 40 E II, liquefied hydrocarbon gases, petroleum bitumen, etc.

    The company continues to implement a large-scale modernization program with the aim of further increasing the depth of processing and the yield of light petroleum products, as well as the most efficient use of secondary processes to increase the output of high-margin petroleum products.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft December 29, 2022

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

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

    http://vvv.rosneft.ru/press/nevs/item/213061/

    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 Russia: Rosneft Opens Gas Filling Stations in Orenburg Region

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Rosneft, as part of the state program for the development of gas motor fuel, opened gas filling stations in the Orenburg region. The stations are equipped with domestically produced technological equipment.

    At automobile gas filling compressor stations (AGNKS), natural gas is supplied via a gas pipeline, then it is purified, dried and compressed in a compression module. The maximum capacity of the station is 17,000 m3 of gas per day.

    The filling stations were installed as part of the Vankor UTT investment program (part of Rosneft) and transferred to Bashneft-Retail for operation.

    CNG filling stations are designed to refuel vehicles with natural gas (methane). The advantages of using methane as a motor fuel are its environmental friendliness and increased engine life due to the absence of carbon deposits in the cylinders. The use of gas motor fuel can significantly reduce the cost of refueling vehicles and increase the efficiency of transport services.

    Reference:

    OOO Bashneft-Roznitsa is the retail network of Bashneft, comprising 541 filling stations in 15 regions of Russia. In 2022, three CNG filling stations were transferred to the management of OOO Bashneft-Roznitsa: one in Udmurtia and two CNG filling stations in the Orenburg region.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft December 30, 2022

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

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

    http://vvv.rosneft.ru/press/nevs/item/213065/

    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 Russia: With the support of Bashneft, a modern kindergarten was opened in Bashkiria

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    A new kindergarten “Romashka” for 50 children was opened in the village of Stary Kurdym in the Tatyshlinsky district of the Republic of Bashkortostan. Financing for the construction and technical equipment was provided by the company “Bashneft” within the framework of the Cooperation Agreement between NK “Rosneft” and the Republic of Bashkortostan.

    The one-story building with an area of 700 m2 meets the most modern technical requirements. A separate block is provided for each age group. All premises are equipped with modern equipment and inventory. The sports and music halls are fully equipped, the food and medical blocks have modern equipment. The outdoor area is divided into play and sports zones with trauma-safe covering.

    The facility is completely autonomous – its own boiler house fully meets the needs of the kindergarten and the neighboring school. The new preschool institution also provides a rich educational program. The staff of educators is formed from certified specialists.

    Also, with the assistance of Bashneft, a new kindergarten for 220 children was put into operation in the village of Kushnarenkovo in the Republic of Bashkortostan this summer. The two-story building with an area of 4.2 thousand m2 is an important social facility in the village with a population of more than 10 thousand people. The new kindergarten has relieved the existing 4 preschool education institutions, which were overloaded.

    Since 2017, Bashneft has implemented more than 220 significant social projects in 49 districts and cities of the Republic of Bashkortostan.

    Reference:

    Bashneft (part of the Rosneft Group of Companies) celebrates its 90th anniversary of production operations in 2022. The company produces and processes oil and gas, produces and sells petroleum products and petrochemicals. Bashneft’s key assets, including oil refining and petrochemical complexes, are located in the Republic of Bashkortostan.

    The cooperation agreement between Rosneft and the Republic of Bashkortostan, aimed at developing industrial, financial and social programs in the region, was extended at the XXV St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, which took place in June 2022.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft December 28, 2022

    Keywords: Social News 2022

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

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

    http://vvv.rosneft.ru/press/nevs/item/213019/

    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 Banking: Rosneft Holds an IT-Marathon

    Source: Rosneft

    Headline: Rosneft Holds an IT-Marathon

    Moscow saw the finals of Rosneft IT-Marathon which is the biggest in Russia. The organizers and winners of the hackathons* presented their best solutions to experts from leading Russian companies and universities.

    Digitalization of business processes is one of the key objectives of Rosneft-2030 Strategy. The Company is persistently introducing advanced technological solutions to analyze large amounts of data for improving the efficiency in all its business areas. Specialized IT-Marathons help Rosneft address real operational tasks in co-operation with high-skilled people.

    In 2022 RN-BashNIPIneft Research Institute held four contests for students and IT specialists with a total of more than 2,300 people participating. This is twice as many as in 2021. The geography of the participants covers more than 130 cities and 12 countries.

    The priority of the IT-Marathon is to address problems using advanced digital technologies and artificial intelligence tools. The solutions gained at the contest are integrated into Rosneft software used for hydrocarbon exploration and production.

    As part of the country universities hackathon, its participants were doing correlation and cluster data analysis and making machine learning models. The obtained solutions will be used for making geological models and identifying methods of oil production. Daniil Raspopin, the winner of the hackathon from Kursk, got a job offer from RN-BashNIPIneft, and so now he is involved in the institute’s projects of data analysis and machine learning.

    Participants of the hackathon for robotics programmers were solving a task of robotizing the study of core, – which means “samples of rock”. The best approaches and methods used for solving this task are now planned to be employed in the modernization project of RN-BashNIPIneft laboratory complex.

    This year the tasks of the two biggest IT-Marathon contests – Rosneft Challenge I and Rosneft Challenge II – were around the subject of oilfield development optimization. Their first task was about predicting electrical submersible pump failures, and the second task was about optimizing well operations. The solutions presented by the participants will be used in the high-tech software line developed in the Company.

    Details about the IT-Marathon are available at: https://events.rn.digital/

    *Hackathon is a competition at which specialists from different software development areas together solve some problem for time.

    Note:

    RN-BashNIPIneft LLC is the Rosneft largest research and design institute and a center of the Company’s high-tech corporate software development.

    Rosneft
    Information Division
    December 5, 2022

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Rosneft Holds an IT-Marathon

    Source: Rosneft

    Headline: Rosneft Holds an IT-Marathon

    Moscow saw the finals of Rosneft IT-Marathon which is the biggest in Russia. The organizers and winners of the hackathons* presented their best solutions to experts from leading Russian companies and universities.

    Digitalization of business processes is one of the key objectives of Rosneft-2030 Strategy. The Company is persistently introducing advanced technological solutions to analyze large amounts of data for improving the efficiency in all its business areas. Specialized IT-Marathons help Rosneft address real operational tasks in co-operation with high-skilled people.

    In 2022 RN-BashNIPIneft Research Institute held four contests for students and IT specialists with a total of more than 2,300 people participating. This is twice as many as in 2021. The geography of the participants covers more than 130 cities and 12 countries.

    The priority of the IT-Marathon is to address problems using advanced digital technologies and artificial intelligence tools. The solutions gained at the contest are integrated into Rosneft software used for hydrocarbon exploration and production.

    As part of the country universities hackathon, its participants were doing correlation and cluster data analysis and making machine learning models. The obtained solutions will be used for making geological models and identifying methods of oil production. Daniil Raspopin, the winner of the hackathon from Kursk, got a job offer from RN-BashNIPIneft, and so now he is involved in the institute’s projects of data analysis and machine learning.

    Participants of the hackathon for robotics programmers were solving a task of robotizing the study of core, – which means “samples of rock”. The best approaches and methods used for solving this task are now planned to be employed in the modernization project of RN-BashNIPIneft laboratory complex.

    This year the tasks of the two biggest IT-Marathon contests – Rosneft Challenge I and Rosneft Challenge II – were around the subject of oilfield development optimization. Their first task was about predicting electrical submersible pump failures, and the second task was about optimizing well operations. The solutions presented by the participants will be used in the high-tech software line developed in the Company.

    Details about the IT-Marathon are available at: https://events.rn.digital/

    *Hackathon is a competition at which specialists from different software development areas together solve some problem for time.

    Note:

    RN-BashNIPIneft LLC is the Rosneft largest research and design institute and a center of the Company’s high-tech corporate software development.

    Rosneft
    Information Division
    December 5, 2022

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: 4th Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum brings together executives of major companies, government officials and industry experts

    Source: Rosneft

    Headline: 4th Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum brings together executives of major companies, government officials and industry experts

    Government officials from the Russian Federation and the People’s Republic of China and executives from over 100 major Russian and Chinese companies have attended the 4th Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum.

    The reports on the development of energy cooperation between the two countries at the Forum were presented by Igor Sechin, Executive Secretary of the Commission for the President of the Russian Federation on the strategy of development of the fuel and energy industry and environmental safety, Chief Executive Officer of Rosneft Oil Company; Alexander Novak, Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation; Han Zheng, Vice Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China; Dai Houliang, Chairman of the CNPC Board of Directors; CEOs of Russian and Chinese companies. The Forum was also attended by ministers and government officials from the two countries, as well as representatives of the scientific community.

    The strong participation once again confirmed the RCEBF’s status as the most important platform for shaping the key areas of energy dialogue between Russia and China.

    The Forum was held in a face-to-face distance format at two venues in Moscow and Beijing, with a video bridge between them.

    UPWARD DEVELOPMENT

    President Vladimir Putin of the Russian Federation and President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China sent greetings to the Forum participants, in which they noted the positive dynamics of the development of Russian-Chinese energy cooperation.

    In particular, Vladimir Putin noted in his address that, despite the complexity of the international situation, relations between the Russian Federation and the People’s Republic of China continue to develop in an upward direction. The energy sector remains one of the key and most dynamic areas of economic cooperation between the two countries.

    “The Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum plays an increasingly prominent role in expanding cooperation in such an important sector, facilitating regular dialogue between representatives of government agencies, leading industry corporations, banking institutions and expert circles of the two countries. One of the Forum’s most vital activities is the creation of the “Atlas of Russian-Chinese Energy Cooperation Investments”. There is no doubt that the development of this unique information and analysis platform opens up new opportunities for mutually beneficial commercial initiatives,” reads the address of the Russian President.

    CORNERSTONE OF CHINA-RUSSIA COOPERATION

    In his welcoming address to the Forum, China’s President Xi Jinping declared energy to be the cornerstone of cooperation between China and Russia.

    According to the PRC President, Beijing intends to build a closer partnership with Moscow in the energy sector. “The energy engagement between China and Russia is a cornerstone of practical cooperation between the two countries and also serves as an effective force for global energy security,” reads Xi Jinping’s address.

    Russia and China’s energy cooperation demonstrates sustainability despite external challenges, the PRC President said.

    “In the face of external risks and challenges, Russia and China are intensifying interaction and coordination, promoting major cooperation projects, demonstrating the high sustainability of Russian-Chinese energy cooperation,” reads Xi Jinping’s address.

    UNIQUE OPPORTUNITIES

    Igor Sechin, Executive Secretary of the Commission for the President of the Russian Federation on the strategy of development of the fuel and energy industry and environmental safety, Chief Executive Officer of Rosneft Oil Company, delivered an address at the opening of the 4th Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum devoted to the development of the energy dialogue between the two countries.

    By the end of this year, the trade turnover between Russia and China may reach $180-190 billion, Rosneft CEO believes. According to him, the figure has already reached $153.9 billion in ten months.

    Thus, Igor Sechin added, the goal of reaching $200 billion in trade turnover may be achieved even earlier than in 2024, as previously planned.

    Igor Sechin noted that Xi Jingping’s 2015 proposal at the rostrum of the UN to create a “community of one destiny for the humankind”, which underlay Chinese foreign policy (as part of the preamble to China’s Constitution), was a worthy response to the challenges of the growing turbulence. “The Western opponents cannot or do not want to understand the great humanitarian meaning of this idea, rejecting the concept of common destiny because of certain ideological considerations,” Igor Sechin believes. “They do not want to understand that it is not about a uniformity, which is naturally alien to the Chinese cultural tradition.” “All phenomena develop together and do not impede one another, all principles are effected together and do not contradict one another,” says a Chinese wisdom. “China simply tells the world: “We are all in the same boat.” And it turns out that China is working to unite humanity, while the West is working to divide it,” Igor Sechin said.

    Rosneft CEO noted that China, like Russia, had always been against unilateral sanctions and economic pressure, which turned into selfish promotion of one’s own selfish interests, and had always advocated the universal and equal application of international law. “Nevertheless, we see that the PRC is subjected to commercial discrimination. The goal is openly set to stop China’s technological development and prevent China from becoming the Number 1 technological power,” the head of Rosneft believes. No wonder the 20th CPC Congress has paid so much attention to security, which is becoming a political priority.

    Rosneft CEO emphasised the unique opportunities that the cooperation offers in terms of ensuring China’s and Russia’s economic security in sensitive areas. “In the field of resource supply, including energy resources, Russia is a reliable supplier with a huge potential that is capable of expanding. As for production and technological logistics, our partnership here seems to be the most protected in terms of security,” Igor Sechin said.

    Russian energy companies, Sechin said, were ready to cooperate with Chinese partners in all areas—“in coal, in gas, in oil, in electricity and through Rosatom.”

    Rosneft CEO noted that the Company had always promoted integral cooperation with Chinese partners along the entire technological chain: that is exploration and production, refining, power generation, sales at potential markets, including retail sales. “As a rule, such cooperation implies exchange of shares, setup of joint ventures, supply of equipment, and technological partnership,” he said.

    POTENTIAL FOR GROWTH IN ENERGY EXPORTS

    Russia’s oil exports to China in January-October 2022 increased by 9.5% year-on-year to reach almost 72 million tonnes. This put Russia in second place among the suppliers of this fuel to Beijing, only slightly behind Saudi Arabia (73.8 million tonnes), Igor Sechin said.

    For his part, Russia’s Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak acknowledged the possibility of building new oil pipelines to China.

    Rosneft CEO also reminded the audience about the Vostok Oil project that “would provide long-term, reliable, and guaranteed energy supplies to Asia’s growing economies.” The project should produce 115 million tonnes of oil by 2033, equivalent to 2.5% of current world production.

    Russia also retains great potential for increasing hydrocarbon exports. For example, Sechin estimates that Rosneft alone has more than 2 trillion cubic metres of gas reserves in Eastern Siberia and the Far East that could be delivered to China.

    According to Igor Sechin, Russian pipeline gas deliveries could increase by 60% this year. The figure will exceed 100 billion cubic metres a year in the foreseeable future, and Rosneft CEO is confident that this is not even the limit.

    Executive Secretary of the Presidential Commission on the strategy of development of the fuel and energy industry Igor Sechin noted the prospects for liquefied natural gas: “Today Russia exports to China relatively small volumes of LNG, but in the future, the volume of LNG supplies may become comparable to our supplies from pipeline projects.”

    For his part, China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) Chairman Dai Houliang pointed to the importance of proper operation of oil pipelines from Russia to China and the Yamal LNG project, in which CNPC has a stake.

    “The implementation of the Sino-Russian gas pipeline through the Far East route and the Arctic LNG-2 project should also be accelerated,” he added.

    Furthermore, according to Igor Sechin, Russia accounts for almost a quarter of China’s coal imports—53 million tonnes in the first ten months of this year. Only Indonesia supplies more coal to the PRC.

    China buys from Russia not only hydrocarbons, but also electricity. Between January and October, its supplies grew by 33% and set a new record.

    SETTLEMENTS IN NATIONAL CURRENCIES

    As Alexander Novak noted, Russia and China were switching to settlements in national currencies when trading energy resources: “This work helps to prevent risks and facilitate the transformation of the rouble and yuan to the status of world reserve currencies.” In addition, the two countries’ central banks are working on a settlement system outside SWIFT.

    A significant step in the development of settlement in national currencies was Rosneft’s 2022 placement of an issue of bonds in yuan totalling 15 billion. According to bank analysts, this was the largest corporate bond market placement in the Russian market ever.

    Executive Secretary of the Presidential Commission on the strategy of development of the fuel and energy industry Igor Sechin noted that settlements under foreign economic contracts, primarily for the supply of energy products, had been promptly adapted to the new conditions. “I consider it important to develop clearing payments between China and Russia, which could then be joined by other interested countries (EAEU, SCO, BRICS). The existence of an independent settlement system is an important component of financial sovereignty in the contemporary world,” the head of Rosneft said.

    INVESTMENT ATLAS

    A significant contribution to the development of energy cooperation between the two countries was the publication of the Atlas of Russian-Chinese Energy Cooperation Investments. This document is a comprehensive and practical guide to the implementation of joint projects. Its first part, presented at the previous Forum by the Russian side, was devoted to a review of the current state and prospects of development of the fuel and energy complex of the Russian Federation.

    During the 4th Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum, Zhang Jianhua, Head of the State Energy Administration of the People’s Republic of China, gave a presentation on the Chinese part of the Atlas.

    The Forum brought together over 300 representatives of major Russian and Chinese companies in the oil and gas, power, coal, nuclear and renewable energy sectors, heads of federal executive authorities, power equipment manufacturers, and representatives of the financial and IT sectors. The participants discussed in detail the key issues of bilateral cooperation in the energy sector. On the sidelines of the Forum, contracts were discussed and concluded between Russian and Chinese partners on energy supply, technology development, joint research, personnel training, and involvement of Chinese companies in the procurement of goods, works and services for projects implemented in Russia.

    The Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum has been held since 2018, in line with the agreements reached by President Vladimir Putin of the Russian Federation and President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China. The two leaders outlined the main objective of the Forum, that is to expand cooperation, find new areas for investment and implement promising projects in the energy sphere in Russia and China.

    Since its inception, the Forum takes place under the auspices of the Commission for the President of the Russian Federation on the strategy of development of the fuel and energy industry and environmental safety and the State Energy Administration of the People’s Republic of China, and is co-organised by Rosneft and China National Petroleum Corporation.

    Rosneft
    Information Division
    November 29, 2022

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: 4th Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum brings together executives of major companies, government officials and industry experts

    Source: Rosneft

    Headline: 4th Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum brings together executives of major companies, government officials and industry experts

    Government officials from the Russian Federation and the People’s Republic of China and executives from over 100 major Russian and Chinese companies have attended the 4th Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum.

    The reports on the development of energy cooperation between the two countries at the Forum were presented by Igor Sechin, Executive Secretary of the Commission for the President of the Russian Federation on the strategy of development of the fuel and energy industry and environmental safety, Chief Executive Officer of Rosneft Oil Company; Alexander Novak, Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation; Han Zheng, Vice Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China; Dai Houliang, Chairman of the CNPC Board of Directors; CEOs of Russian and Chinese companies. The Forum was also attended by ministers and government officials from the two countries, as well as representatives of the scientific community.

    The strong participation once again confirmed the RCEBF’s status as the most important platform for shaping the key areas of energy dialogue between Russia and China.

    The Forum was held in a face-to-face distance format at two venues in Moscow and Beijing, with a video bridge between them.

    UPWARD DEVELOPMENT

    President Vladimir Putin of the Russian Federation and President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China sent greetings to the Forum participants, in which they noted the positive dynamics of the development of Russian-Chinese energy cooperation.

    In particular, Vladimir Putin noted in his address that, despite the complexity of the international situation, relations between the Russian Federation and the People’s Republic of China continue to develop in an upward direction. The energy sector remains one of the key and most dynamic areas of economic cooperation between the two countries.

    “The Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum plays an increasingly prominent role in expanding cooperation in such an important sector, facilitating regular dialogue between representatives of government agencies, leading industry corporations, banking institutions and expert circles of the two countries. One of the Forum’s most vital activities is the creation of the “Atlas of Russian-Chinese Energy Cooperation Investments”. There is no doubt that the development of this unique information and analysis platform opens up new opportunities for mutually beneficial commercial initiatives,” reads the address of the Russian President.

    CORNERSTONE OF CHINA-RUSSIA COOPERATION

    In his welcoming address to the Forum, China’s President Xi Jinping declared energy to be the cornerstone of cooperation between China and Russia.

    According to the PRC President, Beijing intends to build a closer partnership with Moscow in the energy sector. “The energy engagement between China and Russia is a cornerstone of practical cooperation between the two countries and also serves as an effective force for global energy security,” reads Xi Jinping’s address.

    Russia and China’s energy cooperation demonstrates sustainability despite external challenges, the PRC President said.

    “In the face of external risks and challenges, Russia and China are intensifying interaction and coordination, promoting major cooperation projects, demonstrating the high sustainability of Russian-Chinese energy cooperation,” reads Xi Jinping’s address.

    UNIQUE OPPORTUNITIES

    Igor Sechin, Executive Secretary of the Commission for the President of the Russian Federation on the strategy of development of the fuel and energy industry and environmental safety, Chief Executive Officer of Rosneft Oil Company, delivered an address at the opening of the 4th Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum devoted to the development of the energy dialogue between the two countries.

    By the end of this year, the trade turnover between Russia and China may reach $180-190 billion, Rosneft CEO believes. According to him, the figure has already reached $153.9 billion in ten months.

    Thus, Igor Sechin added, the goal of reaching $200 billion in trade turnover may be achieved even earlier than in 2024, as previously planned.

    Igor Sechin noted that Xi Jingping’s 2015 proposal at the rostrum of the UN to create a “community of one destiny for the humankind”, which underlay Chinese foreign policy (as part of the preamble to China’s Constitution), was a worthy response to the challenges of the growing turbulence. “The Western opponents cannot or do not want to understand the great humanitarian meaning of this idea, rejecting the concept of common destiny because of certain ideological considerations,” Igor Sechin believes. “They do not want to understand that it is not about a uniformity, which is naturally alien to the Chinese cultural tradition.” “All phenomena develop together and do not impede one another, all principles are effected together and do not contradict one another,” says a Chinese wisdom. “China simply tells the world: “We are all in the same boat.” And it turns out that China is working to unite humanity, while the West is working to divide it,” Igor Sechin said.

    Rosneft CEO noted that China, like Russia, had always been against unilateral sanctions and economic pressure, which turned into selfish promotion of one’s own selfish interests, and had always advocated the universal and equal application of international law. “Nevertheless, we see that the PRC is subjected to commercial discrimination. The goal is openly set to stop China’s technological development and prevent China from becoming the Number 1 technological power,” the head of Rosneft believes. No wonder the 20th CPC Congress has paid so much attention to security, which is becoming a political priority.

    Rosneft CEO emphasised the unique opportunities that the cooperation offers in terms of ensuring China’s and Russia’s economic security in sensitive areas. “In the field of resource supply, including energy resources, Russia is a reliable supplier with a huge potential that is capable of expanding. As for production and technological logistics, our partnership here seems to be the most protected in terms of security,” Igor Sechin said.

    Russian energy companies, Sechin said, were ready to cooperate with Chinese partners in all areas—“in coal, in gas, in oil, in electricity and through Rosatom.”

    Rosneft CEO noted that the Company had always promoted integral cooperation with Chinese partners along the entire technological chain: that is exploration and production, refining, power generation, sales at potential markets, including retail sales. “As a rule, such cooperation implies exchange of shares, setup of joint ventures, supply of equipment, and technological partnership,” he said.

    POTENTIAL FOR GROWTH IN ENERGY EXPORTS

    Russia’s oil exports to China in January-October 2022 increased by 9.5% year-on-year to reach almost 72 million tonnes. This put Russia in second place among the suppliers of this fuel to Beijing, only slightly behind Saudi Arabia (73.8 million tonnes), Igor Sechin said.

    For his part, Russia’s Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak acknowledged the possibility of building new oil pipelines to China.

    Rosneft CEO also reminded the audience about the Vostok Oil project that “would provide long-term, reliable, and guaranteed energy supplies to Asia’s growing economies.” The project should produce 115 million tonnes of oil by 2033, equivalent to 2.5% of current world production.

    Russia also retains great potential for increasing hydrocarbon exports. For example, Sechin estimates that Rosneft alone has more than 2 trillion cubic metres of gas reserves in Eastern Siberia and the Far East that could be delivered to China.

    According to Igor Sechin, Russian pipeline gas deliveries could increase by 60% this year. The figure will exceed 100 billion cubic metres a year in the foreseeable future, and Rosneft CEO is confident that this is not even the limit.

    Executive Secretary of the Presidential Commission on the strategy of development of the fuel and energy industry Igor Sechin noted the prospects for liquefied natural gas: “Today Russia exports to China relatively small volumes of LNG, but in the future, the volume of LNG supplies may become comparable to our supplies from pipeline projects.”

    For his part, China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) Chairman Dai Houliang pointed to the importance of proper operation of oil pipelines from Russia to China and the Yamal LNG project, in which CNPC has a stake.

    “The implementation of the Sino-Russian gas pipeline through the Far East route and the Arctic LNG-2 project should also be accelerated,” he added.

    Furthermore, according to Igor Sechin, Russia accounts for almost a quarter of China’s coal imports—53 million tonnes in the first ten months of this year. Only Indonesia supplies more coal to the PRC.

    China buys from Russia not only hydrocarbons, but also electricity. Between January and October, its supplies grew by 33% and set a new record.

    SETTLEMENTS IN NATIONAL CURRENCIES

    As Alexander Novak noted, Russia and China were switching to settlements in national currencies when trading energy resources: “This work helps to prevent risks and facilitate the transformation of the rouble and yuan to the status of world reserve currencies.” In addition, the two countries’ central banks are working on a settlement system outside SWIFT.

    A significant step in the development of settlement in national currencies was Rosneft’s 2022 placement of an issue of bonds in yuan totalling 15 billion. According to bank analysts, this was the largest corporate bond market placement in the Russian market ever.

    Executive Secretary of the Presidential Commission on the strategy of development of the fuel and energy industry Igor Sechin noted that settlements under foreign economic contracts, primarily for the supply of energy products, had been promptly adapted to the new conditions. “I consider it important to develop clearing payments between China and Russia, which could then be joined by other interested countries (EAEU, SCO, BRICS). The existence of an independent settlement system is an important component of financial sovereignty in the contemporary world,” the head of Rosneft said.

    INVESTMENT ATLAS

    A significant contribution to the development of energy cooperation between the two countries was the publication of the Atlas of Russian-Chinese Energy Cooperation Investments. This document is a comprehensive and practical guide to the implementation of joint projects. Its first part, presented at the previous Forum by the Russian side, was devoted to a review of the current state and prospects of development of the fuel and energy complex of the Russian Federation.

    During the 4th Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum, Zhang Jianhua, Head of the State Energy Administration of the People’s Republic of China, gave a presentation on the Chinese part of the Atlas.

    The Forum brought together over 300 representatives of major Russian and Chinese companies in the oil and gas, power, coal, nuclear and renewable energy sectors, heads of federal executive authorities, power equipment manufacturers, and representatives of the financial and IT sectors. The participants discussed in detail the key issues of bilateral cooperation in the energy sector. On the sidelines of the Forum, contracts were discussed and concluded between Russian and Chinese partners on energy supply, technology development, joint research, personnel training, and involvement of Chinese companies in the procurement of goods, works and services for projects implemented in Russia.

    The Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum has been held since 2018, in line with the agreements reached by President Vladimir Putin of the Russian Federation and President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China. The two leaders outlined the main objective of the Forum, that is to expand cooperation, find new areas for investment and implement promising projects in the energy sphere in Russia and China.

    Since its inception, the Forum takes place under the auspices of the Commission for the President of the Russian Federation on the strategy of development of the fuel and energy industry and environmental safety and the State Energy Administration of the People’s Republic of China, and is co-organised by Rosneft and China National Petroleum Corporation.

    Rosneft
    Information Division
    November 29, 2022

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Rosneft has discovered a large oil and gas condensate field in Yakutia

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The Taas-Yuryakh Neftegazodobycha company, which is part of the oil and gas production complex of NK Rosneft, has discovered a large oil and gas condensate field in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia). More than 9.5 billion m3 of gas and more than 1.5 million tons of oil have been placed on the balance sheet of the State Reserves Commission. The new field is called Kubalakhskoye.

    Improving the efficiency of reserve replenishment is one of the key elements of the Rosneft-2030 Strategy. The company plans to replenish at least 100% of the hydrocarbons produced.

    The Kubalakhskoye field is located in close proximity to the Srednebotuobinskoye field, which is also being industrially developed by Taas-Yuryakh Neftegazodobycha. The use of the associated infrastructure will increase the efficiency of the development of the Kubalakhskoye field reserves.

    The results of drilling the 1P Kubalakhskaya well allowed not only to discover a new deposit, but also determined the further scope of geological exploration work in this region. Drilling of 4 exploration wells is already planned to study the territory.

    Rosneft, through its subsidiary Taas-Yuryakh Neftegazodobycha, is carrying out large-scale geological exploration work in the Republic of Sakha. High efficiency of geological exploration work (five fields have been discovered in three years) is achieved through the use of innovative technologies, an integrated approach to geological exploration work, and effective interaction between geologists from Taas-Yuryakh Neftegazodobycha and RN-Exploration and specialists from the RN-KrasnoyarskNIPIneft Institute (part of Rosneft).

    Reference:

    Taas-Yuryakh Neftegazodobycha operates in 11 license areas located in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia). The company is developing the Central Block and the Kurungsky license area of the Srednebotuobinskoye oil and gas condensate field, which is one of Rosneft’s largest assets in Eastern Siberia.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft December 22, 2022

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

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

    http://vvv.rosneft.ru/press/nevs/item/212971/

    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 Russia: RN-Uvatneftegaz completed research of endangered birds in Uvatsky District

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The company RN-Uvatneftegaz, which is part of the oil production complex of Rosneft, summed up the results of the implementation of a grant project to preserve the biodiversity of the Tyumen region. As part of the project, specialists studied the state of populations of rare and protected bird species listed in the Red Books of the Tyumen region and Russia.

    Caring for the environment is an integral part of the corporate culture and one of the key principles of Rosneft’s activities. The company has been a member of the UN Global Compact for over 10 years, confirming its commitment to the 17 UN goals in the field of sustainable development.

    Scientists from Tyumen State University conducted research and field work within the Irtysh River valley on an area of about 9 thousand square kilometers. At the first stage of the research, ornithologists collected and analyzed data on rare and protected bird species, and at the second and third stages, they conducted field work to assess the quantitative state of the populations.

    Primary field data were collected using the route method, birds were photographed using long-focus optics, voices were digitally recorded to determine species, and sound stimulation was used. Similar studies have not been conducted in the area since the end of the last century.

    During the expedition, scientists discovered representatives of 70 bird species belonging to 10 orders, including 11 rare and protected species. Among them are the white-tailed eagle, the great curlew, the mute swan, the osprey and others.

    Ornithologists analyzed the main limiting factors of life activity for rare and endangered species, and gave recommendations for optimizing nature management, habitats and nesting sites in the study area.

    Scientists have also developed a list of measures to reduce the negative impact on populations of rare bird species, including limiting industrial work during the nesting season (May-June), carrying out biotechnical measures to create artificial nests, fluttering grounds and gravel beds, protecting forests from wildfires, regulating the number of birds of prey, and environmental education of the population.

    Rosneft is implementing a number of programs to study and preserve flora and fauna in the regions where it operates. More than 20 projects to study rare animals, birds and fish, as well as to preserve the national culture of indigenous peoples, have been developed since 2014.

    Reference:

    RN-Uvatneftegaz is engaged in exploration and development of a group of fields located in Western Siberia in the Uvatsky District of the Tyumen Region. The Uvatsky project includes 19 licensed areas with a total area of over 25 thousand km2.

    RN-Uvatneftegaz is one of the largest taxpayers in the Tyumen region. Under the current agreement between Rosneft and the region, the company actively supports regional social programs and promotes the development of the Uvatsky district.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft December 20, 2022

    Keywords: Ecological news 2022

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

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

    http://vvv.rosneft.ru/press/nevs/item/212915/

    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 Russia: With the support of Rosneft, the photo exhibition “Attraction of the Arctic” opened

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The annual photo exhibition “Attraction of the Arctic” opened on Tverskoy Boulevard in Moscow. The photo exhibition was organized by Rosneft Oil Company together with the non-governmental development institute “Innopraktika”.

    The exhibition includes unique shots from the atlas “Russian Arctic. Space. Time. Resources” (a joint project of Rosneft and Innopraktika), photographs from Rosneft research expeditions and pictures of the Company’s facilities. Residents and guests of the capital will be able to see icy landscapes, large-scale polar research, the unique beauty of the Arctic and its amazing inhabitants, many of which are listed in the Red Book. The exhibition is open to everyone until January 30.

    Rosneft is implementing a comprehensive scientific research program in the Arctic region. Since 2012, the company has conducted more than 30 expeditions in five Arctic seas and collected a unique layer of information about this region. Geological, oceanographic, hydrometeorological and environmental research is carried out in cooperation with the country’s leading scientific institutes.

    In the fall of 2020, during a research expedition, the first stratigraphic drilling of wells in the Kara Sea in the history of continental shelf studies was carried out. In 2021 and 2022, Rosneft continued research in the waters of the Laptev Sea and the Chukchi Sea. The extracted core is being studied by specialists from Innopraktika at the Geological Faculty of Lomonosov Moscow State University. These studies are of great importance for understanding the geological structure of the Russian Arctic. In 2022, the stratigraphic drilling project was awarded a diploma as a laureate of the International Competition of Scientific, Scientific-Technical and Innovative Developments Aimed at the Development and Development of the Continental Shelf.

    Rosneft and the Russian Arctic National Park jointly implemented the Clean Arctic project to study the impact of economic activity during the Soviet era on Arctic ecosystems. This was the first time such a program was implemented in Russia.

    The results of many years of work on studying the Russian North are presented in the ecological atlases “Kara Sea”, “Laptev Sea”, “Marine Mammals of the Russian Arctic and Far East”, “Barents Sea”, “Species – Biological Indicators of the State of Marine Arctic Ecosystems”. This year, together with “Innopraktika”, the Company published the book “Rediscovering the Arctic”, dedicated to the results of expeditions and scientific research of the Arctic zone over 10 years.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft December 28, 2022

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

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

    http://vvv.rosneft.ru/press/nevs/item/213015/

    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 Russia: Orenburgneft successfully tested the intelligent video surveillance system at production facilities

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Specialists from Orenburgneft, which is part of Rosneft’s production unit, have successfully tested an innovative domestic video surveillance system using machine learning and artificial intelligence technology. The system’s task is to monitor and control the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) by employees on the territory of production facilities.

    Digitalization in all areas of the Company’s activities is one of the key objectives of the Rosneft-2030 strategy. The introduction of digital technologies increases the efficiency and speed of decision-making throughout the entire production chain.

    The intelligent video surveillance system made it possible to monitor the use of individual and collective PPE by workers at the production facility in real time. When violations are detected, the system automatically takes a screenshot of the frame and highlights the area of the violation in color. This information is sent to the responsible specialist, as well as to the data storage cloud.

    Video analytics is one of the most promising areas of digitalization of business processes based on machine vision technologies. Orenburgneft plans to use these technologies at production facilities to improve industrial safety.

    Reference:

    Orenburgneft is one of the largest production assets of Rosneft in the Volga Federal District. Cumulative production is more than 450 million tons of oil.

    To improve the efficiency of business processes, the company actively implements software packages from domestic manufacturers, including those developed by Rosneft research institutes. Since 2014, Orenburgneft has implemented about 50 software products of Russian manufacture.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft December 26, 2022

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

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

    http://vvv.rosneft.ru/press/nevs/item/212989/

    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 Russia: Bashneft Reduces Carbon Footprint in Bashkortostan

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Bashneft (part of Rosneft) has begun ground monitoring of methane emissions at the company’s production facilities using modern high-precision equipment. The company’s specialists have taken measurements using ground monitoring equipment at 29 industrial sites, thanks to which the carbon footprint at these facilities has been minimized.

    Progressive movement towards carbon neutrality is one of the important vectors of development of Rosneft Oil Company. The company aims to achieve leadership positions in the field of minimizing the impact of its production assets on the environment.

    The implementation of the Company’s promising project is being carried out in a key region for Bashneft by engineers from Bashneft-Dobycha LLC. A complex of high-tech equipment equipped with laser, ultrasonic and thermal imaging sensors allows specialists to identify and eliminate unregulated sources of greenhouse gas emissions at production facilities.

    The start of ground monitoring of methane emissions was a logical addition to the aerial monitoring that Bashkir oil workers began in 2021. Then, using domestic unmanned aerial vehicles equipped with laser gas analyzers, high-resolution photo and video cameras, 26 industrial facilities of the enterprise were surveyed. This year, ground and aerial monitoring has already been carried out at 56 facilities, including oil and gas treatment units of Bashneft-Dobycha LLC.

    Taking into account the experience and results obtained, Bashkir oil workers have developed an optimal program for monitoring methane emission sources, in accordance with which it is planned to study all the enterprise’s site facilities in 2023.

    Since 2019, Rosneft has been systematically implementing a comprehensive program to monitor and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The expansion of this program, as well as the use of unmanned aerial vehicles, laser and thermal imaging scanning devices, and ultrasonic detectors help minimize the impact on the environment.

    Reference:

    Bashneft-Dobycha LLC is the key production asset of Bashneft Oil Company. It implements investment gas program measures aimed at reducing the impact of oil production on the environment and achieving a level of 95% rational use of associated petroleum gas.

    The implementation of the gas program allowed the enterprise to ensure 96% rational use of associated petroleum gas.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft December 27, 2022

    Keywords: Ecological news 2022

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

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

    http://vvv.rosneft.ru/press/nevs/item/213005/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Kamala Harris maintains narrow lead in key states in US presidential race

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne

    The United States presidential election will be held on November 5. In analyst Nate Silver’s aggregate of national polls, Democrat Kamala Harris leads Republican Donald Trump by 49.3–46.2, a slight gain for Trump since last Monday, when Harris led Trump by 49.3–46.0.

    Joe Biden’s final position before his withdrawal as Democratic candidate on July 21 was a national poll deficit against Trump of 45.2–41.2.

    In economic data, the US added 254,000 jobs in September and the unemployment rate slid 0.1% to 4.1%. The unemployment rate had peaked at 4.3% in July.

    The US president isn’t elected by the national popular vote, but by the Electoral College, in which each state receives electoral votes equal to its federal House seats (population based) and senators (always two). Almost all states award their electoral votes as winner-takes-all, and it takes 270 electoral votes to win (out of 538 total).

    Relative to the national popular vote, the Electoral College is biased to Trump, with Harris needing at least a two-point popular vote win to be the Electoral College favourite in Silver’s model.

    In the key states, Harris remains ahead in Silver’s poll aggregates by one to two points in Pennsylvania (19 electoral votes), Michigan (15), Wisconsin (ten) and Nevada (six). If Harris wins these four states, she probably wins the Electoral College by at least 276–262. Trump leads by 0.5 points in North Carolina (16 electoral votes), one point in Georgia (16) and 1.2 points in Arizona (11).



    Read more:
    Kamala Harris the slight favourite to win US election as she narrowly leads in key states

    In Silver’s model, Harris has a 56% chance to win the Electoral College, unchanged since last Monday’s article. The FiveThirtyEight model was more favourable to Harris in September, but now gives her a 55% chance to win. It’s close to a 50–50 probability for either candidate, but Harris remains a slight favourite.

    There are still more than four weeks to go until the election, so there’s time for the polls to change and for one candidate to have a decisive Electoral College advantage on election day. Or the polls could be understating either Harris or Trump, in which case the candidate that benefits from the poll error could have a decisive win.

    Thumping lead for LNP in Queensland

    The Queensland state election is on October 26. A Freshwater poll for The Financial Review, conducted September 26–29 from a sample of 1,067, gave the Liberal National Party (LNP) a 56–44 lead, a five-point gain for the LNP since the previous Freshwater poll in July 2023.

    Primary votes were 43% LNP (up three), 30% Labor (down four), 12% Greens (up one), 8% One Nation (up one) and 7% for all Others (down one).

    Labor Premier Steven Miles had a net approval of -5, while LNP leader David Crisafulli had a +15 net approval. Crisafulli led Miles by 46–38 as preferred premier.

    The poll asked about the federal leaders’ Queensland ratings, with Anthony Albanese at net -17, while Peter Dutton was at net zero. Queensland is a Coalition-friendly state at federal elections relative to the national results.

    Federal Newspoll quarterly data

    On September 30, The Australian released aggregate data for the four Newspolls taken from July to September, which had a combined sample size of 5,035. The Poll Bludger said the Coalition led in New South Wales by 51–49, unchanged on the June quarter.

    In Victoria, Labor led by 52–48, a two-point gain for the Coalition. In Queensland, the Coalition led by an unchanged 54–46. In Western Australia, Labor led by an unchanged 52–48. In South Australia, Labor led by 54–46, a one-point gain for Labor.

    The Poll Bludger’s BludgerTrack data shows the results by educational attainment. In the September quarter, Labor led by 53–47 among university-educated people, a one-point gain for Labor. With TAFE-educated people, there was a 50–50 tie, a one-point gain for the Coalition. Those with no tertiary education favoured the Coalition by 51–49, a one-point gain for the Coalition.

    Coalition gains lead in Morgan poll

    A national Morgan poll, conducted September 23–29 from a sample of 1,668, gave the Coalition a 51–49 lead, a 1.5-point gain for the Coalition since the September 16–22 Morgan poll.

    Primary votes were 38% Coalition (up 0.5), 30% Labor (down two), 13.5% Greens (up one), 4.5% One Nation (down 0.5), 9.5% independents (steady) and 4.5% others (up one).

    The headline figure uses respondent preferences. But if preferences were assigned using the 2022 election flows, Labor led by 51.5–48.5, a 0.5-point gain for the Coalition. There was an unusually large gap last week between the two measures.

    Resolve poll on Middle East conflict

    Voting intentions have not yet been released from a national Resolve poll for Nine newspapers that was conducted October 1–5 from a sample of 1,606. Regarding the political response in Australia to the Middle East conflict, 22% thought Dutton and the Liberals had responded best, 18% Albanese and Labor and 6% Adam Bandt and the Greens, while 55% said none had responded best or were unsure.

    On Australia’s actions, 23% thought we should voice in-principle support for Israel, 12% Gaza and 65% both or none. On accepting refugees, 52% don’t want any refugees accepted, 24% would accept refugees from either Israel or Gaza, 13% Gaza only and 11% Israel only.

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

    – ref. Kamala Harris maintains narrow lead in key states in US presidential race – https://theconversation.com/kamala-harris-maintains-narrow-lead-in-key-states-in-us-presidential-race-240117

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Rosneft Conducts Field Research of the Northern Forest Deer Population in the Tyumen Region

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    As part of the Rosneft program for biodiversity conservation, the first summer field studies of the reindeer population in the Tyumen region have been completed. The forest subspecies of the animal is under threat of extinction and is listed in the Red Book of the region.

    In 2022, RN-Uvatneftegaz, which is part of the Rosneft oil and gas production complex, together with the Tobolsk Complex Research Station of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, began implementing a long-term program to study and preserve the population of northern forest deer in the Uvatsky District of the Tyumen Region.

    The first field studies and their interpretation were conducted from May to October on an area of more than 62 thousand hectares (including within the license areas of RN-Uvatneftegaz). Based on the analysis of about 22 thousand high-resolution digital aerial photographs taken using unmanned aerial vehicles, the first encouraging results were obtained – individual forest reindeer (8 adults and 2 young of the year) were identified, as well as their numerous trails. The data indicate that the animals not only migrate across the territory of the Uvatsky District, but also breed here.

    Scientists have proposed measures aimed at preserving and further increasing the number of forest reindeer in the studied area, and have outlined a plan of specific activities for 2023, including the organization of artificial salt licks, the installation of camera traps to obtain more complete information about their lifestyle and characteristics, and conducting a winter route census of animals. Work on studying new areas is also planned.

    RN-Uvatneftegaz plans to use the research results in the development of the Uvat project fields as part of a set of measures aimed at preserving the disappearing symbol of the Siberian taiga.

    The company intends to pay special attention to environmental education work among the region’s population. Thus, this year, with the support of RN-Uvatneftegaz, a book about specially protected natural areas of the Tyumen Region was published for the first time. It included information about 102 nature reserves and monuments that form the ecological basis of the region, as well as the endangered and rare species of birds and animals living there, including the northern forest deer.

    Environmental protection is an integral part of the corporate culture and one of the key principles of Rosneft. The company has been a member of the UN Global Compact for over 10 years, confirming its commitment to the 17 UN goals in the field of sustainable development. Rosneft, as part of its Strategy, implements a number of programs to study and preserve flora and fauna in the regions of its presence. Since 2014, more than 20 projects have been completed, including research into rare animals, birds and fish, as well as the preservation of the national culture of indigenous peoples.

    Reference:

    RN-Uvatneftegaz is engaged in exploration and development of a group of fields located in Western Siberia in the Uvatsky District of the Tyumen Region. The Uvatsky project includes 19 licensed areas with a total area of over 25 thousand km2. Under the current agreement between Rosneft and the region, the company actively supports regional social programs and promotes the development of the Uvatsky District.

    In 2022, RN-Uvatneftegaz implemented a grant project to study the fauna and population status of red-listed bird species within the Irtysh River valley (Uvatsky District, Tyumen Region). During the expedition, scientists discovered representatives of 70 bird species belonging to 10 orders, including 11 rare and protected species.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft December 23, 2022

    Keywords: Ecological news 2022

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

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

    http://vvv.rosneft.ru/press/nevs/item/212985/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –