NewzIntel.com

Category: CTF

  • MIL-OSI Security: NATO Secretary General meets the Prime Minister of Iceland

    Source: NATO

    On Wednesday, 28 May 2025, the NATO Secretary General, Mr Mark Rutte, will receive the Prime Minister of Iceland, Ms Kristrún Frostadóttir, at NATO Headquarters, in Brussels.

    Media advisory

    11:40 (CEST) Joint press conference by the Secretary General and the Prime Minister of Iceland

    Media coverage

    • Media representatives who have annual accreditation to NATO can attend the event in person.
       
    • Media representatives without annual accreditation and who are interested in covering the event should email NatoAccreditations@hq.nato.int. Please note that due to the short time to process applications, ad-hoc accreditation may not be guaranteed.
       
    • The press statements will be streamed live on the NATO website and on X @NATOPress. A transcript of the Secretary General’s remarks, as well as photographs, will be on the NATO website.
       
    • The video can be downloaded from the NATO Multimedia Portal after the event.
       

    For more information:
    For general queries: Contact the NATO Press Office
    Follow us on X: @NATO, @SecGenNATO and @NATOPress

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: European Week Against Cancer: supporting patients, from prevention to treatment

    Source: European Union 2

    This week marks European Week Against Cancer (25-31 May). Under its Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan, the EU has provided support to millions of people affected by cancer across the Union. It funds actions on cancer prevention, detection, diagnosis and treatment to improve patients’ outcomes.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Getting ready to support wildfire-hit countries during the summer

    Source: European Union 2

    The EU has put together teams of firefighters and aircraft to help European countries affected by wildfires during the upcoming summer. Throughout July and August almost 650 firefighters from 14 European countries will be strategically prepositioned in key high-risk locations.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Minister Smyth Promotes Ireland’s Digital and Innovation Agenda on Visit to Singapore for Asia Tech x SG 2025

    Source: Government of Ireland – Department of Jobs Enterprise and Innovation

    26th May 2025

    Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transformation Niamh Smyth is undertaking a high-profile visit to Singapore this week at the invitation of the Singaporean Government to participate in Asia Tech x Singapore (ATxSG) 2025, one of the region’s most significant technology and innovation summits.

    The summit, which gathers global tech leaders to shape the future of digital transformation, provides a platform for Ireland to showcase its strengths in areas such as artificial intelligence, digital trust, innovation, and skills development. Minister Smyth’s participation underscores Ireland’s commitment to being at the forefront of global digital dialogue.

    Speaking ahead of her visit, Minister Smyth said:
    “Ireland and Singapore share a forward-looking vision when it comes to technology, digital governance and innovation. My visit is a valuable opportunity to deepen ties with key partners, promote Ireland’s capabilities in emerging tech sectors and learn from Singapore’s pioneering work in digital transformation.”

    In addition to engagements at ATxSG, including attendance at the opening event alongside the President of Singapore, Mr. Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Minister Smyth’s programme features a series of bilateral meetings and strategic engagements, supported by the Embassy of Ireland in Singapore and the wider Ireland House team, including Enterprise Ireland, IDA Ireland and Bord Bia.

    Highlights of the Minister’s Programme include engagements with Irish Companies operating in Southeast Asia, showcasing the success of Irish enterprise abroad with support from Enterprise Ireland. A number of high-level meetings with representatives of AI Singapore and AI Innovation, exploring collaborative opportunities in responsible AI development are also on the itinerary.

    Minister Smyth will also participate in the Ministerial Roundtable on Digital Trust, where global leaders will examine AI risks and regulatory strategies. Bilateral talks will also take place with key international counterparts, including a Singaporean Minister for Digital Development & Information, Professor Max Tegmark, President of the Future of Life Institute, Baroness Jones, UK Parliamentary Under-Secretary for the Future Digital Economy and Hon Judith Collins KC, New Zealand’s Minister for Digitising Government Tourism policy meetings, reflecting the Department’s expanded remit, with senior figures from Gardens by the Bay, Singapore National Stadium and the National Association of Travel Agencies Singapore are also scheduled.

    Strategic discussions with Skills Future Singapore and Design Singapore, offering valuable insights into how nations are preparing their workforces and industries for the digital age, are another feature.
    Minister Smyth will conclude her visit by meeting with members of Singapore’s vibrant Irish community at an event hosted by the St Patrick’s Society, which this year celebrates its 100th anniversary in the city-state.

    Minister Smyth highlighted how:

    “This visit is a strong demonstration of Ireland’s commitment to international digital cooperation, innovation diplomacy, and supporting Irish enterprise across Southeast Asia.”

    ENDS

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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Tourism Strategy Set to Drive Sustainable Growth in Perth and Kinross

    Source: Scotland – City of Perth

    The Perth and Kinross Tourism Strategy and Action Plan 2025-2030, developed by the Perthshire Tourism Partnership, sets out a bold vision for the future of tourism in the region.

    The strategy focuses on four key areas: area promotion and destination marketing, investment and infrastructure, market development and internationalisation, and industry growth and resilience. Together, these priorities aim to increase visitor numbers, attract inward investment, develop new tourism products and experiences, and support local businesses to grow and thrive.

    With a strong emphasis on recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic, the plan outlines a clear path towards sustainable growth in the tourism sector, ensuring it continues to play a vital role in the economic and cultural life of Perth and Kinross.

    Tourism monitoring data for 2023 revealed that the region welcomed 2.3 million visitors, generating £703 million in direct and indirect economic activity. The total economic impact for local businesses and communities was £641 million, supporting approximately 8,200 full-time equivalent jobs. Compared to 2022, this represents an 8.8% increase in economic impact, a 15.4% rise in visitor numbers, and a 1.5% increase in total visitor days and nights.

    The strategy also explores other funding opportunities to support future investment in tourism infrastructure and services.

    Councillor Eric Drysdale, Convener of Perth and Kinross Council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee, said: “The Perth and Kinross Tourism Strategy and Action Plan 2025-2030 is an important blueprint for our region’s economic prosperity.

    “By focusing on sustainable growth, we are not only enhancing our local economy but also ensuring that Perth and Kinross remains a vibrant and attractive destination for visitors.

    “This strategy will help everyone involved in tourism in Perth and Kinross navigate the challenges ahead and seize new opportunities, ultimately benefiting our communities and businesses alike.”

    The Perthshire Tourism Partnership, established in 2005, brings together tourism businesses, local associations, collaborative groups, and public sector agencies, including Perth and Kinross Council. The partnership plays a key role in shaping strategic direction and fostering collaboration across the tourism sector.

    David Smythe, Chairman of the Perthshire Tourism Partnership, said: “I thank Perthshire Tourism Partnership members and the tourism industry leaders who all contributed to shaping the new Tourism Strategy, which sets a clear path forward for this economically vital sector in Perth and Kinross.

    “Getting the tourism balance right through sustainable growth and focusing on the key themes is important to help keep our communities vibrant as they embrace the opportunities visitors bring to our lovely part of Scotland.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Polytech is a participant of the international exhibition “Metalworking – 2025”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    Today, the exhibition “Metalloobrabotka – 2025” opened in Moscow, in which the Polytechnic University is taking part. This is a traditional industry event, which for 40 years has regularly brought together the best specialists and largest companies from Russia, the CIS countries, the Middle and Far East and other regions of the world. The exhibition has been held in Moscow since 1984 and is recognized as the largest project in Russia and the CIS in the field of machine tool building. This year, over 1,200 companies are presenting advanced solutions for industry on an area of 50,000 sq. m. The number of participants is about 50,000 people.

    “I am glad to welcome all participants of the International Exhibition “Metalloobrabotka – 2025″, one of the largest and most authoritative professional platforms in the field of machine tool building in Russia and the CIS countries. For all exhibitors, partners of the exhibition and guests of Expocentre, this is a unique opportunity to get acquainted with the most relevant industrial trends and advanced production technologies,” said SPbPU Rector Andrey Rudskoy. – At the end of 2024, the Government of the Russian Federation completed work on the formation of eight national projects of technological leadership, and the most important of them is dedicated to the industrial sector: the national project on means of production and automation, the main subjects of which are machine tool building in metalworking, technological equipment, additive technologies. These are the topics that are the focus of both the business program discussions and the key exhibits of the exhibition, in which Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, a traditional participant with many years of experience in developing and implementing high-tech technologies in various industries and acting as an executor of the main federal programs for technological development, is a traditional participant. I invite all colleagues to a dialogue on the thematic tracks of the exhibition and to further productive cooperation.”

    The main topics of the 25th anniversary exhibition are innovations in machine tool building, automated production lines, modern tools and materials. The focus is also on digital solutions: software for production management, robotic systems, artificial intelligence technologies. The business program of the exhibition will be focused on applied tasks of industry and issues of strategic development.

    “It is a great honor for us to be part of this forum, where traditions and innovations of the industry meet. Our institute has been a flagship in the field of mechanical engineering and materials science for many years. We actively develop metalworking technologies, introducing modern solutions in turning, milling and casting processes. Our developments are successfully used at enterprises of the aerospace, automotive and energy industries, ensuring high precision and reliability of products, – noted the director of the Institute of Mechanical Engineering, Materials and Transport of SPbPU Anatoly Popovich. – We pay special attention to additive technologies, which open up new horizons for industry. Together with industrial partners, we create unique methods of 3D printing of metal components, reducing production times and reducing resource costs. It is important that we not only improve technologies, but also train personnel capable of working at the intersection of disciplines. Our students and researchers are actively involved in projects that combine classical metalworking and digital innovations. I am confident that the exhibition will become a platform for fruitful dialogue, and the synergy of experience and new ideas will help us move the industry forward together.”

    SPbPU will demonstrate not just scientific developments, but technological solutions ready for implementation. This year, our university will present a wide range of advanced developments in key areas of modern production – from 3D metal printing to robotic welding and the creation of intelligent materials.

    Additive manufacturing

    Polytechnic University takes metal 3D printing to a new level: from developing heat-resistant nickel powders to laser synthesis of critically loaded components. The university has more than ten domestic SLP printers with a multi-laser system, which allows creating complex parts for gas turbines and aviation. Thus, the VPLS “Mercury” installation developed by SPbPU jointly with ZAO “Biograd” allows printing gas turbine components from heat-resistant nickel alloys at a heating temperature of up to 1300 degrees Celsius. A powerful laser (1000 W) and precise control of the material structure provide high performance. This is no longer a prototype – it is a response to import substitution in aerospace and energy. In addition, multi-material synthesis, plasma and flame spraying technologies have been implemented. They print not only with alloys – SPbPU has piezoceramics, carbide ceramics, and high-entropy composites in its arsenal. All this is in the interests of import independence and accelerated implementation in real production.

    The Polytechnic University is also equipped with stationary and mobile technological complexes for direct laser deposition, laser cladding, laser and hybrid laser-arc welding of thick metals, and laser welding of thin metals (up to 100 microns).

    Electric Arc Growing (WAAM)

    SPbPU offers a full cycle of WAAM implementation — from design to integration into production processes. The technology of layer-by-layer wire surfacing using an electric arc is used to create large-sized and complex-shaped products from titanium, steel, aluminum and other metals. Robotic complexes are adapted to the tasks of specific customers, providing up to 6 kg/h of printing and full automation. The robotic complex (RC) for additive electric arc growing is a robotic cell that has everything necessary for electric arc growing. In addition, the Polytechnic University supplies the systems with its own software that allows monitoring the status of the manipulator and peripheral equipment, as well as generating control programs for the implementation of the electric arc growing technology. Unique examples: gas turbine engine impellers and wheel rims, which have passed strength tests and demonstrated competitiveness compared to cast products.

    Design and manufacture of laser technological complexes

    Polytechnic University develops turnkey laser systems — from foil welding to repair and manufacturing of components for power and mining equipment. The arsenal includes robotic laser cladding systems, mobile units, robotic systems with 5-kW lasers, direct laser deposition with powders and wire, as well as hybrid systems with an inert atmosphere. Using a robotic laser welding system for thin metals (up to 100 microns), serial welding of fuel elements of a hydrogen energy source for Russia’s first passenger ship, Ecobalt, was implemented.

    The university developed a technology for surfacing a porous coating with a thickness of 600 microns with an open porosity of 60-80% and the ability to control these parameters. The cups successfully passed preliminary clinical tests for integration and toxicity of the surfacing layer with bone material.

    Repair of power equipment components was carried out: nozzle and working blades Man Turbo, SGT-700, TV 3-117, VP2500, VPT-50-2, Man Turbo, MARS100, Taurus 60, Man Turbo, MS5002E, TV 3-117, NK-12ST, DR59L, GPA GTK-10I, MS3142J.

    As part of cooperation with the company JSC UK KER-Holding, the Polytechnicians created and delivered a technological complex for direct laser growth.

    Together with TsNIITMASH, a demonstration separation module of a power plant was created using direct laser growth. The result is a reduction in the number of welding operations, an increase in anti-corrosion properties and reliability in extreme Arctic conditions. The university is conducting projects with Rosatom, Gazprom and other industrial giants, offering customers not just equipment, but fully adapted technological solutions.

    Friction stir welding (FSW)

    SPbPU is one of the few in the country that uses STP and TSTP on a large scale: both in spot and seam configurations. This is a solid-phase welding technology that does not involve melting, but has high strength, minimal deformations, and the ability to weld even dissimilar materials — aluminum with copper, composites with metals. The university produces seams up to 8 meters long, develops its own equipment, and trains customer personnel. The use of STP is relevant for aviation, shipbuilding, energy, and military equipment — wherever precision and durability are important.

    We invite you to the Polytechnic stand 1A25, where you can see and evaluate the latest technologies and innovations from SPbPU in the field of metalworking.

    Exhibition address: Moscow, Krasnopresnenskaya embankment 14, Expocentre Central Exhibition Complex

    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.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Alexey Likhachev became an Honorary Doctor of SPbPU

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    A solemn ceremony of presenting the mantle and diploma of the Honorary Doctor of SPbPU to the General Director of the State Corporation Rosatom Alexey Likhachev took place at Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University.

    The ceremonial event opened with the performance of the Polytechnic University anthem by the SPbPU youth choir “Polyhymnia”.

    It is especially gratifying that this important event is taking place in the year of the 80th anniversary of the Russian nuclear industry, to the development of which Polytechnicians made a significant contribution. Such names as Abram Fedorovich Ioffe, Isaak Konstantinovich Kikoin, Abram Isaakovich Alikhanov, Yuliy Borisovich Khariton, Nikolay Leonidovich Dukhov are inscribed in gold letters in the history of the development of Russian science. Today, Polytechnic University and Rosatom, under the leadership of Alexey Evgenievich, closely cooperate for the benefit of the development of Russian nuclear technologies: both in education and in science. By order of Rosatom, our Institute of Power Engineering annually graduates more than 250 specialists in the field of nuclear energy, thermal power engineering, electric power engineering and power engineering. Together with Rosatom, we are successfully implementing the project of the advanced engineering school “Digital Engineering”, acting in the interests of the technological leadership of our country, – emphasized the rector of SPbPU, academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Andrey Rudskoy.

    The members of the SPbPU Academic Council unanimously voted to award the title to Alexey Likhachev on April 28 this year. The Scientific Secretary of the Polytechnic University Dmitry Karpov presented the new honorary doctor.

    If we try to pick three key words that would define the spirit of modern scientific and technological development in Russia, these words should be: professionalism, leadership and Victory. And these are the words that come to mind when we talk about the State Corporation Rosatom. For the Polytechnic University, whose history is closely connected with the nuclear project, participation in the development of nuclear energy is one of the key, strategic areas of work. And scientific and industrial cooperation with the national leader in several related industries at once is a great honor and responsibility for the university, – noted Dmitry Karpov.

    Cooperation between the Rosatom State Corporation and SPbPU, which is one of the flagship universities and its long-term strategic partner, is actively developing. This is a significant amount of work carried out by the Institute of Mechanical Engineering, Materials and Transport, the Institute of Power Engineering, the Physics and Mechanical Engineering Institute, the Advanced Engineering School “Digital Engineering” and other university structures. This is significant international cooperation, in particular, in the interests of the Turkish and Egyptian nuclear energy. This is the training of specialists in a wide range of engineering and technical areas of training – primarily in nuclear, energy, mechanical engineering and construction specialties. This is a cell of the Rosatom Student Council, whose activists participate in organizing meetings with representatives of the corporation’s enterprises, technical tours of production facilities, strategic sessions as part of the university’s career events and other activities. In the context of the 80th anniversary of the nuclear industry, about 40 events are planned at the Polytechnic University, covering more than 4,000 people.

    Dmitry Karpov named several completed projects. An optimal design of a vibrating screen for cleaning drilling mud was developed by order of NPO Centrotech. The project was a real breakthrough in the industry: with a target vibration acceleration of 7 g, engineers from PISh SPbPU designed a product that exceeded these parameters in just six months. The results of digital modeling were confirmed from the first factory test of the prototype – the vibration acceleration was 8.2 g. The product and its modifications have been successfully used for many years now.

    A digital twin of the VVER-1000 fuel assembly with an anti-debris filter and mixing grids was developed by order of JSC TVEL. Due to digital design and additive manufacturing, the filtration efficiency has been increased tenfold, and the created models, virtual test benches and testing grounds will significantly reduce costs and improve the quality and speed of further developments.

    At the request of the Mayak production association, for the first time in engineering practice, the architecture of a highly adequate multiphysical digital model of a furnace for vitrification of high-level radioactive waste has been developed.

    By order of JSC TsKBM, key proprietary technological equipment for the ODU-150 hydrogen production unit was developed. The design solutions of the created key hydrogen technology devices are the starting point in the development of a new generation of equipment and future medium- and large-tonnage devices for the hydrogen, petrochemical, and nitrogen industries.

    At the request of the composite division of Rosatom, a technology for the production of filaments from continuous carbon fiber was developed, and the customer received pilot equipment. On the official website of the corporation, this installation is listed among the most important achievements of Rosatom in 2024.

    At the enterprise of the State Corporation Rosatom — JSC Proryv — the URANIA data and process management system for computational and experimental scientific research was put into operation. It is based on the CML-Bench® Digital Platform — an in-house development of the Engineering Center of our university.

    In 2023, under the leadership of Alexey Evgenievich, the State Corporation approved the Unified Digital Strategy, which became the most important step towards accelerating the digital transformation of the industry, including ensuring import substitution. In this regard, Dmitry Karpov noted that specialists from SPbPU and the All-Russian Research Institute of Experimental Physics developed the national GOST “Computer models and modeling. Digital twins of products. General provisions” – the world’s first document regulating the relevant activities.

    The scale of the projects of the State Corporation Rosatom is truly astounding. And it is quite obvious that the management of such a system is the lot of rare leaders and true professionals. This entire vast field – from the development and implementation of advanced technologies, solving the most complex multidisciplinary problems of the world level to the transfer of unique competencies and the organization of expert discussion platforms – all this and much more became possible, including thanks to the personal professionalism and leadership of Alexey Evgenievich. Perhaps, being a leader is destiny. Destiny to be born in Arzamas-75 – Sarov, the city-forming enterprise of which is the Russian Federal Nuclear Center. And, having gone the way of an engineer, politician, adviser and Deputy Minister of Economic Development of Russia, still to head the State Atomic Energy Corporation Rosatom. And to become a leader, ensuring its brilliant victories, – emphasized Dmitry Karpov.

    Students in the uniform of the Polytechnic University of the early 20th century brought in a doctoral robe and cap, the Polyhymnia choir performed the Gaudeamus anthem. Andrei Rudskoi presented Alexei Evgenievich with a book about honorary doctors of the Polytechnic University, which has a page dedicated to the CEO of the state corporation Rosatom.

    It is a great honor for me to receive this title from one of the leading technical universities in the country, which stands at the origins of the Russian engineering school. St. Petersburg Polytechnic University is a forge of personnel for the nuclear industry, and we highly value the contribution of its teachers, scientists and students to the development of advanced technologies. I am confident that our partnership will continue to contribute to breakthrough achievements in nuclear energy, medicine and new materials, – said Alexey Likhachev in his response speech.

    Alexey Likhachev also met with students studying at the Institute of Power Engineering. He spoke about the development of the State Corporation’s systemic cooperation with universities, how contacts with students are built, and shared Rosatom’s corporate values. The Polytechnicians spoke about the activities of the Rosatom student council cell, asked questions about the prospects for the development of nuclear science and the training of personnel for the corporation’s high-tech projects.

    You are the future not only of Rosatom and the nuclear industry, but of the entire country. It is you who will manage enterprises, represent the industry on the international stage and develop our technological power. Therefore, such meetings with students are of particular value: we get to know each other better and understand to whom we are transferring responsibility for the future, Alexey Likhachev emphasized.

    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.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: International tournament Inter Football Cup: sport, friendship, Vyshka!

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    © Higher School of Economics

    On May 18, the Higher School of Economics hosted the international football tournament Inter Football Cup, in which HSE students and staff from all over the world took part for the third year in a row. This event became a real holiday not only for football fans, but also for everyone who wants to make new acquaintances and immerse themselves in an atmosphere of friendship and unity.

    The football tournament is held with the support of Directorates of Internationalization And Department of Physical Education HSE University. Opening the event, department lecturer Artem Yemelyanov congratulated everyone on the sports festival and wished them to demonstrate their best sports skills and team spirit. Director Center for Support and Career of International Students and Graduates Zhanna Sorokina noted that for the first time, not only student teams are participating in the tournament, but also a team formed from international specialists – foreign teachers and research staff of the university.

    This time, 12 teams met on the field, bringing together representatives of more than 50 countries – from Australia to Ethiopia, from Italy to India. Each match was a real battle, full of emotions and excitement. The participants not only demonstrated their football skills, but also shared the cultural traditions of their countries, which added a special flavor to the tournament. “This is not just football, it is a great chance to take a break from studying, warm up and relax, and also meet our friends and students from other faculties,” shared Ikenna Mbatha (Nigeria) from Institute for Statistical Research and Economics of Knowledge HSE. His team, despite losing in the semi-finals, had unforgettable impressions and made many new acquaintances.

    “This is not my first time participating in the tournament, and it is one of the best events that the university organizes for international students,” says Bernard Baako (Ghana) Faculty of Economic Sciences“Such drive, such emotions – it’s an amazing release!”

    As the tournament organizers note, the number of participants increases every year, which indicates a growing interest in the sporting event. “We are glad to see how students from different countries unite through sport. This is important not only for their socialization, but also for creating a friendly atmosphere at the university,” noted Zhanna Sorokina.

    Marco Mellina (Italy), Research Fellow Schools of Historical Sciences, said that he was a big football fan and, having just learned about the tournament, persuaded his colleagues to participate. The team of international specialists was extremely happy to spend the day at the stadium and impose a fight on their opponents. Even the rain that began during the final games did not spoil the mood of those gathered. The players’ passion in the fight for prize places was uncontrollable, once again confirming the truth of the classic formula of big-time sports: “The match will take place in any weather.”

    The tournament ended with a spectacular finale in which the team Faculty of Social Sciences defeated the team Institute of Cognitive Neurosciences — another debutant of the tournament. But, as many participants noted, the main thing is not the victory, but participation and the opportunity to meet new people.

    Benjamin Sarpong (Ghana), captain of the winning team, boasted that he has won the cup for the second year in a row: at the Inter Football Cup 2024, he was a prize winner as part of the team of the preparatory department for foreign citizens. “Today I personally scored two goals, and they determined the outcome of the final game! I am absolutely happy!” admitted Ben.

    The HSE Inter Football Cup has once again proven its importance as a platform for cultural exchange and friendship, and the participants are looking forward to the next tournament.

    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.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Multiple watchkeeping related failures identified in 2020 vessel grounding

    Source: Maritime New Zealand

    The dangers of watchkeeping failures are being yet again highlighted following the 2020 grounding of a commercial vessel.

    Watchkeeping is a crucial job for crews on vessels. Anyone tasked to keep-watch has to look out for risks and potential hazards, to ensure the vessel does not ground or hit other boats or other objects in the water.

    All vessels are legally required to keep watch at all times.

    The skipper of the Sidina, Ralph James and the head of the fishing company’s operational planning, Nino D’Esposito were last week sentenced in the Napier District Court, for their parts in the grounding of the vessel along the coast of Chatham Island’s in December 2020.

    It grounded after the skipper fell asleep, he was then woken by the impact of it grounding.

    Maritime NZ’s John Drury says ensuring watchkeeping is adequately managed and staffed is a significant priority for Maritime NZ.

    “Every year we see several incidents relating to vessels failing to properly keep-watch. These can result in collisions and groundings.

    “The skipper needs to ensure proper watch is kept at all times, and that the vessel is operated within the rules, including having the correct number of personnel working while at sea.  

    “Depending on the collision or grounding, these incidents have the potential to put those on the vessel, in the water or other boats at risk of serious injuries or death.

    “There is also the potential for a vessel to cause environmental issues through a grounding or collision.

     “A boat could spill oil or other potentially hazardous substances into the water,” John Drury says.

    A key role on any commercial operation and in turn its management, is to ensure there are appropriate resources and procedures to manage fatigue, make sure the crewing levels are correct and appropriate for the journey being undertaken. Management also need to understand their operating procedures.

    “As the person with oversight of the work, Mr D’Esposito did not correctly manage the personnel resourcing for the vessel, did not ensure there was oversight and management of the risks of fatigue, and as a result left the crew vulnerable to an incident such as what occurred.

    “Ensuring the correct people with the right skills and qualifications are on-board vessels is hugely important when undertaking commercial operations such as what the Sidina was doing when it grounded.

     “It is disappointing these obligations were not given the focus they required,” John Drury says.

    After the vessel grounded, it had to be towed back to Napier to be repaired.

    Editor’s Note:

    Ralph James was sentenced under S65 of the Maritime Transport Act 1994 and fined $4,125.  

    Nino D’Esposito was sentenced under S48 charge of the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015, for a breach of duty as an officer (at the time he was working as a consultant, leading the company’s operational planning). He was fined $11,900.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Now’s the perfect time to get prepared to head out on the water

    Source: Maritime New Zealand

    When planning a trip on the water, safety starts at home, and now is the perfect time to make your checks before a busy few months on the water.

    Whether you are planning on heading off shore on a power boat, or looking to get on a paddle board or a kayak. There are several checks you need to make to ensure you and others on your vessel are safe. An easy saying to remember is prepare your vessel, check your gear and know the rules before heading out.

    Long range forecasts for spring and summer show conditions are likely to be hot up and down the country.

    This is likely to see a significant number of people out on the water.

    “That is why it is important to make sure you have made the right checks and have the equipment now, instead of realising you don’t have what you need right before you head out,” Maritime NZ’s Principal Advisor Recreational Craft, Matt Wood says.

    He is recommending boat users undertake a full clean of their vessel, service their engines annually and check other safety equipment they have on-board.

    The first step is to check your lifejackets, make sure there is no damage and they are still fit for purpose.

    “Old lifejackets can fail in an emergency.

    “Most manufacturers recommend lifejackets are replaced every 10 years, or if there is noticeable damage, while inflatable life jackets should be serviced every year,” he says.

    Checking expiry dates on key pieces of equipment is also important.

    “Once purchased a lot of people forget about items such as beacons and fire extinguishers after purchasing and then putting them on their vessels.

    “However, you want them to be fully functional and working should something go wrong,” Matt Wood says.

    “Checking all batteries are fully charged, radios, ropes and flares will ensure you can hit the water with peace of mind next time you head out.

    “Salty water can speed up the degradation process of items, causing the lifespans to shorten if they are often exposed,” he says.

    Spending a couple of hours doing these checks now will pay off when you do go out again.

    “With extra daylight saving having just occurred there are some extra hours of light now available, so the time is right to make the checks on your vessel,” Matt Wood says.

    Maritime NZ also recommends you make sure you have the necessary resources on your vessel, including (among other things):

    • Boat hook and throwing line
    • Warm clothing
    • First aid kit
    • Navigation equipment
    • Bailing system
    • Waterproof torch
    • Alternative power (a spare outboard, oars or paddles).
    • Spare fuel

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Maritime NZ completes its investigation into fatal capsizing of the i-Catcher

    Source: Maritime New Zealand

    Following a comprehensive investigation into the capsizing of the i-Catcher south of Kaikoura in September 2022, Maritime NZ’s investigation into potential prosecution following the incident is now complete.

    On 10 September last year, the vessel with 11 people on-board departed South Bay, Kaikoura. The 10 passengers were members of a Nature Photography Society of New Zealand. About two hours into the excursion, the vessel capsized. Five of those on-board were trapped under it and sadly passed away, after being exposed to petrol fumes.

    Maritime NZ would like to acknowledge this tragedy and the lives lost on 10 September last year. Our thoughts are with the survivors, and family members of those who lost their lives that day.

    Following our investigation, Maritime NZ has decided not to take any prosecution action against any individuals, organisations or PCBUs.

    “The investigation undertaken by Maritime NZ specialist investigators was complex and fulsome,” Maritime NZ’s Deputy Director Regulatory Operations, Deb Despard says.

    “It involved visiting the scene, reviewing the conditions from that day, interviewing witnesses, commissioning an independent survey of the vessel, checking the safety equipment for the vessel, collating and reviewing the operator’s documentation.”

    The survivors, families of the victims, and those involved have been informed of the decision not to prosecute any of the parties involved.

     “The investigation looked at the potential cause for the vessel to capsize, the fuel leak and how the organisations and individuals involved managed their responsibilities,” Deb Despard says.

    After reviewing accounts from survivors, receiving feedback from witnesses in the area and technical analysis of the force required to cause a vessel of this size to roll over, the Maritime NZ investigation has identified the likely cause of the capsize was a whale impacting the i-Catcher as it came up to the surface.

    The Transport Accident Investigation Commission has released a preliminary report, with a full report to come in due course.

    In its preliminary report, TAIC raised issues about how vessels’ fuel systems are inspected by maritime surveyors, particularly the parts of the system that cannot be seen and easily accessed because they are under decks or behind bulkheads.

    “We are currently prioritising work on guidance for the industry to remind them about considerations raised in the August TAIC report,” Deb Despard says.

    “This includes working with recognised maritime surveyors to ensure they are looking for the right issues when surveying vessels.

    “Our targeted advice to the sector and surveyors will make a difference by improving the understanding of potential risks around fuel systems,” Deb Despard says.

    This will build on the work Maritime NZ is already doing with recognised maritime surveyors, including holding a regular surveyor conference, seminars, proactively engaging with surveyors around rule changes, providing clarification on the intent of rules and safety updates, and promoting an understanding of best practice.

    As part of the follow up work post this incident, Maritime NZ is looking at on-the-water safety initiatives skippers and crew on trips such as this can undertake to assist those on-board should something the vessel encounter trouble.

    “Our people are currently working on advice and we expect it to go to the sector in the coming months,” Deb Despard says. 

    While this marks the end of the Maritime NZ investigation, this is a potentially stressful period for those connected to the incident.

    “We understand this may be an emotional time for those involved. Maritime NZ wishes to extend its condolences to those impacted by this tragedy, Deb Despard says.”

     Editor’s Note:

    Recognised surveyors are authorised by the Director of Maritime NZ to undertake surveying work, however, they are not employed directly by Maritime NZ.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Reducing Harm and Saving Lives: Safer Boating Forum Recreational Craft Strategy 2023-2025

    Source: Maritime New Zealand

    The Safer Boating Forum (Forum) is launching its new Recreational Craft Strategy 2023-2025 to reduce harm and save lives, as part of the 10th annual Safer Boating Week.

    The Safer Boating Forum is a network representing a cross-section of national and regional government agencies, local body groups, organisations and the marine industry, involved in promoting recreational boating safety in New Zealand.

    Sharyn Forsyth, Chair of the Forum, says the strategy launch on October 17 is a significant achievement that will reduce harm among the two million recreational craft users in New Zealand each year.

    “The aim of this strategy is to reduce harm and ultimately to save lives,” says Sharyn. “It’s a big step forward for the 26 organisations in the forum, which have collaborated on the strategy, as it focuses on interventions that are informed by intelligence and insights. The Strategy will increase alignment between the Forum members and the wider water safety sector to focus on the primary causes of harm and working in partnership to find effective solutions.”

    Over the next two years the strategy aims to influence significant year-on-year increases in recreational craft users using lifejackets, carrying two forms of waterproof communication, and checking the marine forecast. It also aims to reduce per capita preventable fatalities by 25 percent by 2025.

    “I’m excited that we can launch this strategy today as I know it will help the sector take the right steps towards reducing harm among recreational craft users,” says Sharyn.

    Over the past 10 years, 18 people on average have died in recreational craft incidents annually. The majority of these fatalities occur when small craft under six metres suddenly capsize and those on-board have little time to put their life jackets on. Failure to wear a life jacket, or wearing of an ill-fitted life jacket, is the number one cause of death in recreational crafts.

    People taking to the water on unseaworthy craft, in unsuitable weather conditions, and without adequate equipment are also significant contributing factors to harm.

    Peter Busfield, Executive Director NZ Marine Industry Association says “removing unseaworthy craft from circulation is vital”.

    “Boating is a way of life for two million New Zealanders and it is important they know the importance of having a seaworthy boat with the correct safety equipment on board. The education and promotion campaigns the Forum delivers are key to getting this message through. As part of our communications strategy we’re looking to gain the support of boating and marine retailers to deliver safety messages so people come home safe from a day out on the water,” says Peter.

    An agency that often sees the impact of what happens on the water is CoastGuard.

    CEO, Callum Gillespie of Coastguard NZ, says having the strategy will help the sector work together to achieve the same goals: “This strategy shows that as a sector we are aligned and working together to reduce harm”.

    “We all want to see the numbers of preventable incidents of injury and death reduced; everyone in the forum wants people on the water to be able to come home safe.”

    The strategy is a practical piece of work that spreads right from national regulatory action through to local council bylaws.

    Pete Thomas, Deputy Harbour Master Northland Regional Council and Forum leadership group member, added that strategy initiatives would shape a consistent approach to council bylaws.

    “Across the motu, there are different bylaws regarding life jacket wearing and this can be confusing for the public. The Forum is committed to encouraging regional councils to strengthen bylaws and make life jacket wearing compulsory, especially for craft under six meters,” says Pete.

    A key component of the new strategy is its work to understand the needs of different communities and water users.

    Dr Ngahuia Mita, Forum Kaihautū (leader) says the strategy will reduce harm by coordinating work to understand where improvements can be made and promoting collaboration.

    “We know Māori and Pacific communities are over represented in fatalities and the Forum needs to work in partnership with these communities to develop effective solutions together.”

    Dr Ngahuia says it is important we have conversations with communities so we know how to ensure safety is at the front of mind.

    The Forum’s Recreational Craft Strategy supports the outcome in the Water Safety NZ Water Sector Safety Strategy and supports Maritime NZ’s strategy. Daniel Gerrard, CEO of Water Safety NZ, has welcomed the development.

    “As a sector it’s essential we’re all travelling in the same direction and working together effectively. We’re talking with similar people and encouraging them to be safe in the water, so it’s paramount that we are joined up and working as one,” says Daniel.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Safer Boating Week: A plea to everyone hitting the water

    Source: Maritime New Zealand

    Come home safe.

    Maritime NZ and its Safer Boating Forum partners want every recreational craft user to put steps in place to ensure they return home from their time on the water with good memories, not injuries, or, even worse, fatalities.

    MNZ and the Safer Boating Forum, want everyone who heads out to come home safe.

    Safer Boating Week is about getting safety to the forefront of the minds of recreational craft users as they start flocking to the water.

    Maritime NZ’s 2022 Recreational Fatal Accidents report states that last year 17 people died tragically, or were reported missing and never found.

    “This is a sobering statistic, and one the Safer Boating Forum and our members are dedicated to bringing down,” Sharyn Forsyth, Chair of the Safer Boating Forum, says.

    “Our Forum members span right across the recreational craft space, from jet boating through to stand up paddle boarding, and each activity has its own risks to manage.

    “Through Maritime NZ’s community grant funding, organisations all over the country are running programmes to bring down instances of harm.

    “In 2022 we saw fatal incidents occurring on powerboats, dinghies, kayaks and jet skis, and it is important a targeted approach is taken to preventing harm on recreational crafts.”

    Almost all of these fatal incidents occurred one nautical mile from shore, or on lakes and rivers.

    “It doesn’t matter whether you are close to shore, tragedy can strike anywhere and that is why it is critical to prepare before heading out onto the water,” Maritime NZ Harm Prevention Lead – Recreational Craft Victoria Slade says.

    “If you’re planning to head out on the water make sure to check the marine forecast, take two forms of waterproof communication to call for help, and always wear a properly fitting lifejacket.”

    Thirteen of the 17 fatalities occurred when people were capsized or thrown overboard, which is why it is very important to wear a properly fitting life jacket.

    “New Zealand is an island nation and conditions can quickly change. A day can start calm, causing a false sense of security. This has especially been the case for users of low powered or human powered vessels,” Victoria Slade says.

    Canoers and kayakers represented nearly a third of those who died in recreational craft incidents in 2022.

    “Just because you are going out in a small vessel near to shore doesn’t mean you are immune to risks. The weather can change quickly so you need to regularly assess the weather conditions and head back to shore if conditions change. Smaller crafts such as kayaks can easily capsize in larger waves and be battered by high winds which can make situations very dangerous,” Victoria Slade says.

    “Of the 17 people who died or went missing in recreational accidents in 2022, 16 of those were male. The ‘she’ll be right’ attitude of a lot of NZ males needs to be left at home when heading out onto the water. Remember, your family needs you home safely.”

    For more information about how to plan before you head out, ways to be safe on the water, how to maintain your boat, and how to safely use different types of recreational crafts saferboating.org.nz

    Come home safe. Kia Mataara.

    Key water user and 2022 fatality report statistics:

    • 2022: 17 deaths (spread across 16 incidents)
      • The 17 fatal accidents that occurred in 2022 placed that year approximately at the 10 year average of 18 deaths
    • Of those who died in recreational craft incidents last year:
      • 17 of the 16 people were male
      • The median age was 53 years old
      • 12 were not wearing a lifejacket when they entered the water
      • 12 of 17 people died in spring and summer
      • All fatalities occurred in a vessel that was 6m or less in length
    •  nine deaths of the 17 were due to a capsize, a further four was overboard
    • Basic vessel type:
      • six deaths on a Kayak/Canoe
      • five deaths on a dinghy
      • four deaths on a power boat
    • Only seven percent of those surveyed say they create detailed plans of their trip. 31% don’t do any planning at all.
    • Things considered before and during trips to ensure saftey:
      • 42% have lifejackets
      • 38% know/ check the forecast
      • 11% have a phone

    Note to editors:

    The Safer Boating Forum (Forum) is a network representing a crosssection of national and regional government agencies, local body groups, organisations and the marine industry, involved in promoting recreational boating safety in Aotearoa New Zealand.
    The purpose of the Forum is to work together to develop and implement a recreational strategy for Aotearoa to support agreed safety policy, communications, education, compliance and regulation activities.
    Maritime NZ leads the Forum and works with Forum members to coordinate safe boating activities.

    Maritime New Zealand
    Auckland Transport
    Coastguard New Zealand
    Drowning Prevention Auckland
    Environment Canterbury
    Greater Wellington Regional Council
    Insurance Council of NZ
    Jet Boating New Zealand
    Kiwi Association of Sea Kayakers
    Metservice
    New Zealand Marine Industry Association
    New Zealand Police
    New Zealand Search and Rescue Council
    New Zealand Sport Fishing Council
    New Zealand Underwater Association
    NZ Stand Up Paddling
    Northland Regional Council
    Queenstown Lakes District Council
    Rowing New Zealand
    Surf Lifesaving New Zealand
    Swimming New Zealand
    Te Manatu Waka
    Waikato Regional Council
    Waka Ama New Zealand
    Water Safety New Zealand
    Yachting New Zealand

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI: AI Meets XRPL: Nimanode’s $NMA Presale Gains Momentum as AI Agents Set to Transform Web3 Automation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LEEDS, United Kingdom, May 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Nimanode, the trailblazing AI-powered platform built on the XRP Ledger, has officially launched its $NMA token presale, which started on May 22, 2025 and will remain live for a 30-day window.

    As XRP continues to gain momentum, boosted by renewed institutional inflows and its recent recognition as a cornerstone asset in the U.S. Strategic Crypto Reserve — projects like Nimanode are emerging at the forefront of XRPL’s next evolution, combining zero-code AI automation with real on-chain utility.

    JOIN $NMA PRESALE

    Nimanode is positioning itself at the intersection of artificial intelligence and decentralized technology. While much of the Web3 space remains focused on static smart contracts, Nimanode introduces something radically different: autonomous AI agents that users can build, deploy, and monetize — with zero coding required.

    What’s so Special about Nimanode?

    They boast of a suite of AI agents that can be deployed all from a no-code interface

    Web3 Customer Support Agents – Deployment AI agents 24/7 Web3-based customer support

    DeFi Autopilot Agent – AI Agents that not only trade but research, analyse and present optimal APY for its users

    Risk Assessment Agent – Designed to safeguard users by analyzing every dApp or token address a user interacts with.

    Why Whale’s are Scooping $NMA

    With a deliberately limited supply of just 200 million tokens, $NMA’s tokenomics are designed to reward early adopters and its ecosystem participants. Positioned at the core of Nimanode’s decentralized infrastructure, the token offers holders access to staking rewards, governance participation, and revenue-sharing opportunities.

    Holding the $NMA Token unlocks the full potential of the ecosystem, including:

    Agent Deployment – Reduced fees for launching agents when holding a minimum $NMA balance

    Agent Marketplace – Use $NMA to access premium agents or receive exclusive discounts

    Staking Benefits – Stake $NMA to earn passive income through the platform’s reward pool

    Governance Access – Participate in protocol decisions and vote on proposals that shape Nimanode’s future

    Buy $NMA Token

    How To Join The Nimanode Presale

    Here’s how you can participate:

    1. Buy XRP from reputable exchanges like Binance, Coinbase, or Bybit
    2. Send them to an XRP Compatible Wallet (Xaman recommended) to hold your purchased XRP.
    3. Go to Nimanode’s presale page, copy the deposit address, and send your XRP to it.
    4. Receive your tokens via airdrop 24 hours after the presale concludes.

    Act Now, Don’t Miss Out

    The market is heating up. BTC is hitting new highs. But the smartest investors aren’t just riding waves, they’re positioning for what powers the next one.

    AI isn’t coming — it’s already here, and Nimanode gives you the keys to deploy it.

    Get your $NMA while it’s still early.

    WEBSITE | TWITTER | TELEGRAM | WHITEPAPER

    Contact:
    Nick Lambert
    contact@nimanode.com

    Disclaimer: This is a paid post and is provided by Nimanode. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2837a177-584e-4fbb-a555-a2b391b80284

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Chance AI releases new model with visual reasoning, multi-language support, and voice

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, NY, May 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Chance AI, the multi-agent visual AI for explorers, artists, and creatives, today announces its most substantial model upgrade to date. Available starting today on iOS and coming soon to Android, Chance AI’s latest release introduces real-time visual reasoning, support for 17 languages, and voice playback—making Chance’s unique visual AI proposition more intuitive, helpful, and accessible.

    Chance AI now describes its reasoning in real time

    Simply take a photo, and Chance AI will instantly provide a wealth of history, context, and related information. Uncover the story behind historic landmarks or art pieces, identify unique plants or objects, or learn more about books, games, movies, and more. Chance AI is currently a free download with no ads or shopping links.

    New Real-Time Visual Reasoning

    The latest update brings real-time visual reasoning to Chance AI, allowing the model not just to identify what it sees—but to explain how it discovers and interprets new information through step-by-step visual logic, like a thoughtful human observer. Whether it’s analyzing art, decoding design, or understanding the natural world, Chance now provides rich, conversational insight into visual intelligence.

    “This is a huge leap forward for Chance AI,” said founder Xi Zeng, co-founder and former Product Director at OnePlus. “Unlike other models, Chance AI is built specifically for deep visual reasoning and explains what it sees in a powerful new way—connecting your curiosity with real, human-centered insights. We believe that knowledge should meet you at the speed of sight, not hide behind search boxes or opaque algorithms. It’s about making exploration transparent, inclusive, and fun.”

    With this release, Chance AI becomes the first true visual reasoning model, offering an unprecedented level of transparency and outperforming competitors in accuracy and contextual depth. 

    Building a Global Community

    With its latest update, Chance AI now supports 17 languages, opening the door for even more users to explore and connect with the world around them. In addition to English, newly added languages include:

    • Spanish / Español
    • French / Français
    • German / Deutsch
    • Italian / Italiano
    • Portuguese / Português
    • Simplified Chinese / 简体中文
    • Traditional Chinese / 繁體中文
    • Japanese / 日本語
    • Dutch / Nederlands
    • Polish / Polski
    • Swedish / Svenska
    • Danish / Dansk
    • Norwegian Bokmål / Norsk Bokmål
    • Finnish / Suomi
    • Czech / Čeština
    • Greek / Ελληνικά

    Press Play on Exploration

    The update also introduces audio output, so users can choose to read or listen to Chance AI’s responses. 

    “It’s so exciting to see people around the world discovering Chance AI and using it to explore their surroundings in entirely new ways,” said Bradon Harwood, co-founder of Chance AI and former senior marketing leader at OnePlus. “This new model is really about breaking down barriers—so even more people can experience the joy of exploration in their own native language, by text or voice.”

    Voice features are now available in English, Chinese, Dutch, Finnish, French, German, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Polish, Portuguese, and Spanish. More languages are planned for future releases.

    Availability

    Chance AI is available now for free download on the Apple App Store. An Android version is currently in closed beta and will be available soon on Google Play. Users can visit Chance AI’s website to join the company’s beta program and try the Android version today.

    Chance AI is now available in 17 global languages

    About Chance AI

    Founded by former OnePlus team members with a passion for design, technology, and exploration, Chance AI is the most advanced visual AI ever developed—driven by a mission to enrich lives through discovery. With just a quick snap, it unlocks a world of conversational context and hidden narratives, transforming the way people engage with their surroundings. 

    Press inquiries

    Chance AI
    https://chance.vision
    Bradon Harwood
    bradon@chance.vision

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Adriana D Kugler: Assessing maximum employment

    Source: Bank for International Settlements

    Thank you, Francine, and thank you to the Central Bank of Iceland for the invitation to speak to you today.

    My subject is the Federal Reserve’s mandate of maximum employment. In the Fed’s monetary policymaking, maximum employment and stable prices are linked in the mandate assigned to the Federal Reserve by U.S. law, which we refer to as the dual mandate. Icelanders, I know, are a seafaring people, and those here will understand what I mean when I say that the dual mandate is our “lodestar,” a word our two languages share. It is our goal and our guide in setting monetary policy.

    There is an important distinction between our dual-mandate goals. For reasons that I will explain, while the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) has defined “stable prices” as 2 percent annual inflation, such numerical precision is not possible in defining maximum employment.

    To achieve price stability, the Fed adopted a numerical target for inflation in 2012 that hasn’t changed. It has remained unchanged because the Committee has repeatedly reaffirmed the judgment that it made in 2012 that 2 percent inflation is the rate most consistent with its statutory mandate. In contrast, the Federal Reserve has not spelled out a numerical goal for the unemployment rate or some other measure of employment because maximum employment can move up and down over time and is not directly measurable, and also because the different factors that determine it are either difficult or impossible to measure in real time.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Klaas Knot: A true treasure – why we need diversity and inclusion in the financial industry

    Source: Bank for International Settlements

    Welcome dear colleagues! Welcome to the conference and welcome to our renovated building.

    After several years of construction, De Nederlandsche Bank returned a few months ago to this updated version of our historic home. It is not only energy-efficient and sustainable, but also – quite unusual for a central bank – partially open to the public: on the ground floor, visitors can walk in to have a coffee, work, study, or simply look around.

    Look at our extensive art collection – as you can do later today – or visit the vault where we used to store our gold bars and our money. Now we call it the New Treasury and use it as an exhibition space where visitors can learn more about our role and responsibilities and explore our collection of historic banknotes, with a lot of European pre-euro examples. I hope you take the opportunity to visit the exhibition. 

    Of course I am convinced that the introduction of the euro was a positive change – I am the president of the Dutch Central Bank, after all – but despite everything we gained in this monetary union, we also lost something.

    In our banknotes we lost colour, individuality, diversity. Because the pre-euro banknotes all tell their own story. Of national identity, cultural heritage, time and place. They differ in colour, imagery, size; even in the feel of the paper.

    The Italian lira, with historic painters and sculptors: ornate and expressive.
    The German mark, with scientists and writers: inventive and efficient.
    The Dutch guilder, with colourful birds and sunflowers: bold and modernist.

    To name only a few.

    These banknotes remind us that diversity is not disorder.

    It is depth.
    It is opportunity.
    It is strength.

    The banknotes remind us that it is never one person, one idea that makes us strong.

    Our strength as nations, as the European Community, as financial institutions, is always the product of a flock of ideas, a blend of people, a collection of perspectives. 

    At De Nederlandsche Bank, our vision is ‘connected and diverse’. We believe that to safeguard financial stability and promote sustainable prosperity, we must reflect the society we serve – one that is increasingly complex, international, and indeed, diverse. That is why we aim for a workforce that mirrors the richness of our society.

    Diversity for us is sometimes broad and visible: diversity in gender, age and cultural heritage. But it can also be less visible: diversity in physical and mental ability, sexual orientation, faith, background, education. We don’t pursue diversity for appearances sake. We pursue it because it sharpens our thinking, deepens our dialogue, and improves our decision-making. Complex challenges – like climate risk, digital transformation, and geopolitical uncertainty – demand diverse perspectives. 

    That is not an abstract mission, but a commitment to tangible goals. We are aiming for full gender balance in our workforce and leadership by 2028.

    We are not there yet, we hope to hit our target if we can continue improving by 2% per year. Currently, women make up 43% of DNB’s management, and we are still working on this. We are using the updated definitions from the Dutch Statistical Office to improve cultural representation, with the aim of having 26% of our employees and managers come from a migrant background.

    We have achieved this on the work floor, but not yet in management, where the figure is currently just over 13%; so this is also a work in progress.

    We are making all this happen by translating our ambition for diversity and inclusion into our policies and daily work processes.

    And by keeping track of our progress. We believe – obviously – that data drives progress. What gets measured, gets managed.

    So we have established a Diversity Board to guide and accelerate our progress, and we measure our progress with a Diversity Dashboard. Recently, we published our Out & Proud Statement, in which we explicitly express our support for LGTBIQ+ inclusion and speak out against intolerance. Because there is a world to be gained, and in some cases, regained when it comes to LGTBIQ+ inclusion.

    I am saddened to see that LGTBIQ+ inclusion has declined in recent years in European countries and across the world. Statistics show decreasing support for LGTBIQ+ inclusion – also among younger people.

    We are seeing more frequent physical, verbal and online violence, and politicians are rolling back previously attained rights for LGBTIQ+ couples.This declining support and safety affects LGTBIQ+ people throughout society, including those working at central banks and other financial institutions.

    For our employees to reach their full potential, for them to make the best contribution to our work and mission and – not least – for us to fulfil our potential as an employer, our employees must feel safe, must be able to express themselves. That’s why we have to work together to become – and stay – diverse and inclusive organisations. And that requires the involvement of all of us.

    At DNB, we encourage this by empowering our internal networks, like Young DNB, DNB Pride, DNB International, Blended and Female Capital, but we also try hard to involve every employee outside those networks. Because only by involving everyone can we ensure that every colleague – regardless of who they are – feels seen, heard and valued.

    This is my call to action to you today:

    let’s talk, let’s exchange experiences, let’s exchange ideas to make this happen. For instance by ensuring that – where that is not already happening – we create space for internal networks, for LGBTIQ+ employee resource groups. And, even better, let’s create an international network for these groups, so they can strengthen each other, and by doing so, strengthen our organisations.

    Do you know what this is?

    After the introduction of the euro, we shredded all those beautiful old banknotes. We packed the shreds in small bags, which we handed out as souvenirs to visitors of DNB. One of our doormen used to say, with a big wink and a smile: “It’s a jigsaw puzzle.”

    But of course there is a lesson here: creating a diverse and inclusive workplace is a human-made jigsaw puzzle that we can only put together through human-made solutions.

    We have to look for and connect the diversity of our people. We have to ensure that human uniqueness is not just tolerated, but treasured in our financial institutions.

    Because only then can we truly claim to be resilient. Only then can we speak credibly in the public debate. Only then we can see the full picture: a financial sector that not only serves society – but represents it. 

    And our banknotes?

    There is good news on that front: the European Central Bank is preparing to introduce a new generation of euro banknotes. The ECB is consciously seeking to reflect more of the identities, histories and cultures of the people who use them.

    So once more – I hope – the designs will be colourful, representative and diverse. Because diversity does not weaken unity, it strengthens it. Not only in the European Union, not only in the financial sector, but for all of us.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Sabine Mauderer: Price stability and climate change

    Source: Bank for International Settlements

    Check against delivery 

    1 Introduction 

    Ladies and gentlemen. 

    I am delighted to have the opportunity to open this conference today.

    I am sure, we all agree: climate change alters the environment in which central banks operate. 

    According to the NGFS long-term scenarios, unmitigated climate change leads to losses in global GDP of almost 15 % by 2050 – relative to a scenario without climate change. This is a conservative estimate, as it does not yet account for key risks, such as sea level rise and climate tipping points.

    Given the context of this conference, there is no need to give you any further examples about the relevance of climate change. Instead, allow me to briefly recap why and how we as central bankers need to deal with climate change: In doing so, I will focus on some of the most important aspects. 

    2 Physical impacts and climate policies

    Let me turn to the two dimensions of what we call “climate change” for short: the impacts of climate change itself, and the effects of our attempts to mitigate it. 

    Central banks monitor both dimensions because of their relevance for output and prices. This is why I highly appreciate that the impacts of physical risk and transition risk on inflation are at the core of today’s conference. 

    Let’s start with physical risks. 

    In addition to the consequences of gradual shifts in temperature patterns or sea level rise, acute physical risks such as hurricanes, droughts or floods can damage the economy, with impacts lasting beyond the short-term. As the timing, location and magnitude of such shocks are largely unpredictable, central banks are on high alert. 

    In theory, the direction of price developments depends on the balance between supply and demand. Severe weather events could affect either side. Supply-side disruptions tend to cause higher prices whereas a reduction in demand tends to entail lower prices. 

    Without pre-empting the work presented at this conference: As outlined in a recent technical paper by the NGFS1, the emerging empirical work on the linkage between weather shocks and inflation suggests that the upward pressure from the supply side dominates, for instance, for agricultural production.

    One key finding is that food prices tend to rise in the aftermath of a weather shock – associated with negative supply impacts – with some spillovers into overall inflation.2 Moreover, the specific nature of the shock matters, with nonlinear inflationary effects being documented in the case of heatwaves.

    The type of damages can differ as well: while heatwaves tend to impact labour and agricultural productivity, leaving the capital stock unaffected, severe storms tend to impair infrastructure, housing, and the capital stock of an economy.3

    There is also the second dimension – transition risk. Many jurisdictions have committed to decarbonise their economies. This goes hand in hand with substantial structural changes that can also pose risks for price stability. 

    But the picture emerging here is more mixed: the impact of a green transition on inflation depends on its drivers and how it unfolds in the economy. 

    Moreover, short and long-run effects can differ.

    What are these drivers? Let me briefly elaborate. 

    Depending on the policy mix, the pace of technological progress, changes in preferences and the role of international trade relations4 – to mention just a few main aspects – the transition will affect the supply and demand side of the economy in multiple ways. 

    Hence there is no straightforward answer to the question whether inflationary or disinflationary effects will dominate. A higher carbon price, for example, makes carbon intensive products and businesses more expensive. As a result, consumer price inflation may rise in the short-term. 

    Over the medium to long run, however, higher costs of brown products will make it more attractive to shift to greener production processes – and invest in innovative green technologies. 

    Green innovations, efficiency gains and maturing technologies, together with an increasing usage of clean energy, can drive energy costs and prices down over time.5 Therefore, inflationary pressures are likely to remain contained in the medium to long run, especially in the event of an orderly transition with predictable carbon prices.

    Along the way, central banks will have to make sure that inflation expectations remain well-anchored, as maintaining price stability is their core mandate.

    Accelerating the green transition is up to our governments, but price stability and a sound financial system are important facilitators of this process.

    3 Conclusion

    Ladies and gentlemen. 

    Our economies are facing multidimensional, unprecedented structural changes. The green transition is just one aspect. 

    At the current juncture, the approaching threats of climate change are overshadowed by other topics. We are all witnessing the shift in attention to artificial intelligence, tariffs and trade wars, and the rising geopolitical uncertainties.

    The many unknowns associated to these topics make strategic long-term decisions particularly challenging for policymakers, firms and households alike. 

    Yet, climate change is and remains an urgent issue that involves answering complicated questions. The physical principles of climate change have not changed. Climate change will not simply disappear if we try to ignore it.

    But we will get closer to a solution every day – if we tackle these questions courageously and analytically. 

    Events like this conference are important to keep the attention on the problem and to improve our understanding of climate risks.

    In this spirit, I wish you a successful and productive discussion.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: New Wuhan-Poti/Tbilisi route launched as part of China-Europe international rail freight transportation

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, May 26 (Xinhua) — A China-Europe international rail freight train departed from Wuhan, central China’s Hubei Province, for Georgia on Saturday, marking the opening of a new trans-Caspian international transport route linking Wuhan with Georgian cities.

    The train is carrying goods worth more than 14.82 million yuan (about $2.06 million), including light mechanical equipment, agricultural machinery and construction materials, China’s Zhongxinshe News Agency reported.

    This train will cross the state border at the Khorgos checkpoint /Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Republic, Northwest China/, pass through Kazakhstan, where in the seaport of Aktau the cargo will be transferred to a ferry going across the Caspian Sea, after which it will arrive in the capital of Azerbaijan, Baku, from where it will be delivered by rail to Poti and Tbilisi.

    When transporting goods from Wuhan to Georgia, a multimodal scheme is envisaged: “railway – sea – rail”, while the travel time is approximately 18 days.

    Georgia is a key corridor connecting Europe and Asia. The launch of this route will facilitate the development of trade and economic ties between China’s Hubei Province and Georgia, Turkey, and other neighboring countries.

    Currently, there are 58 cross-border routes in the China-Europe international railway freight transportation, linking Wuhan with 120 cities in 40 countries on the Eurasian continent. Thus, an international intermodal transport network has been formed covering Europe, Central Asia and ASEAN countries, as well as Japan and the Republic of Korea. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese-Uzbek archaeological team held an open day

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, May 26 (Xinhua) — A team of archaeologists from China and Uzbekistan held an open day in Surkhandarya region of Uzbekistan last week, according to the official website of the Cultural Heritage Protection Administration of northwest China’s Shaanxi Province.

    The event, attended by 40 local schoolchildren, took place at the Bandikhon No. 2 archaeological site, located in the Surkhandarya and Sherabadarya river valley. Since September 2023, experts from China and Uzbekistan have been conducting joint excavations at this early Iron Age site.

    The archaeological group includes researchers from Northwest University (NWU, Shaanxi Province, China), Termez State University and Termez State Archaeological Museum (Uzbekistan).

    The event, which aimed to educate the public about archaeology, allowed the teenagers to expand their historical knowledge and strengthen their awareness of the importance of protecting cultural heritage sites, said Ma Jian, head of the Chinese archaeological team.

    In cooperation with the Samarkand Archaeological Institute, the State Archaeological Center and the Fergana State University of Uzbekistan, SZU has been conducting archaeological work in the city of Samarkand, the Surkhandarya and Fergana regions of this country for 18 years in a row.

    The collaboration between archaeologists from both sides proved fruitful. Experts filled a number of gaps in Central Asian archaeological research, discovering the monuments of Sazagan and Chinartepa and the burial grounds of Rabat and Serharakat. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Import orders placed during China-CEEC EXPO totaled 10 billion yuan

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    HANGZHOU, May 26 (Xinhua) — Some 17,000 buyers from China and overseas visited the 4th China-Central and Eastern European Countries (CEE) Expo, which concluded in Ningbo, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sunday.

    The volume of placed import orders amounted to 10.98 billion yuan, the organizers reported. In addition, during the fair, agreements were signed on the implementation of 24 investment projects, primarily related to areas important for the formation of productive forces of a new quality – artificial intelligence, production of high-end equipment, etc.

    The organizers noted a significant expansion of the geography of participants. In addition to 14 CEE countries, 120 countries and regions of the world were represented at the current EXPO, the number of participating enterprises approached 1,500, and about 4,000 foreign buyers visited the fair.

    It is particularly noteworthy that the newly established section “Intelligent and Digital CEE” brought together 37 leading companies in the field of artificial intelligence and robotics, in particular, companies from Hungary, Slovakia and Slovenia demonstrated their developments in VR, flight simulators and an aircraft resembling a bat.

    Progress was also made in improving cooperation mechanisms during the fair. Thus, the dialogue on customs and quarantine control led to an agreement on the admission of agricultural products from Bulgaria and Croatia to the Chinese market and the establishment of a cross-border information exchange mechanism. It was decided to open a liaison office of the China-CEECA Agricultural Cooperation Promotion Association in Ningbo, which is designed to provide comprehensive support for the entry of relevant products from CEECA countries to the Chinese market. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China hosts symposium on traditional cultures along the Silk Road

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, May 26 (Xinhua) — A 2025 symposium on the protection, development and application of traditional cultures along the Silk Road opened in Xi’an, capital of northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, on Friday.

    The symposium, co-organized by the Shaanxi Provincial People’s Government, the Provincial Department of Education and Northwest University (NWU), brought together more than 100 experts from higher education institutions in China, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Egypt, Morocco and the United Kingdom.

    The event included the opening ceremony of the Intelligent Perception Laboratory for Situational Awareness in Countries Along the Silk Road, aimed at enhancing the level of cooperation between research organizations in China, Central Asia and Arab countries.

    Speaking at the symposium, SZU Rector Sun Qingwei introduced those present to the university’s achievements in research related to the Great Silk Road.

    The Silk Road served as a channel for trade and economic interaction and civilizational exchanges between the East and the West, and in modern times it has gained new vitality. Sun Qingwei called on the two sides to make joint efforts to deeply integrate production, education, research and application.

    The main theme of the symposium is “The Great Silk Road: civilizational mutual learning and innovation in culture.” Within its framework, two sub-forums were held on issues of Chinese-Arab and Chinese-Central Asian civilizational exchanges. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The first container truck under the TIR system departed from Shanghai to Minsk

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    SHANGHAI, May 26 (Xinhua) — A container truck carrying three used new-energy vehicles left Shanghai for Minsk on Friday, the first export cargo transported from Shanghai under the TIR (Travel International Road) system, Shanghai Customs said Monday.

    After the dispatch of a container truck to the capital of Belarus, services for transporting both import and export cargo within the TIR system to and from the eastern Chinese metropolis became available.

    On March 6, 2024, the first TIR shipment of imported goods to Shanghai was carried out. To date, a total of 1.114 million yuan worth of goods have been shipped under TIR under the supervision of local customs.

    TIR is a global system for simplifying customs procedures in the field of international cross-border freight transport, based on UN conventions. It helps improve the efficiency of customs clearance and contributes to the simplification and security of multilateral trade and international transport by simplifying customs clearance procedures. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Hong Kong SAR IPOs this year total 76 billion Hong Kong dollars

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    HONG KONG, May 26 (Xinhua) — Chen Mao-bo, head of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region’s Finance Department, said that since the beginning of this year to date, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region has raised over 76 billion Hong Kong dollars through initial public offerings (IPOs) on the local stock exchange, an eight-fold increase compared to the same period last year and reaching about 90 percent of last year’s total.

    In an online report posted by the official on Sunday, he said that despite the uncertainties in the external environment, the Hong Kong SAR is making every effort to seize opportunities to play the role of a “super-connector” between China’s interior and the rest of the world.

    Last week, Hong Kong SAR hosted two major financial forums, with many foreign investors pledging to use Hong Kong to increase their asset allocation to the Chinese interior and the rest of Asia. The Hong Kong Stock Exchange also saw its largest IPO of the year last week.

    In addition, the Hong Kong Investment Management Company organized the first international forum on “patient capital”. Speaking at the forum, representatives of science and technology enterprises noted that the event allowed them to get acquainted with many potential investors and long-term funds, which will help accelerate the connection between capital and innovative science and technology enterprises.

    On May 23, the Hong Kong SAR’s relocation regulations came into effect. On the same day, a major international insurance company announced its intention to relocate to Hong Kong and make Hong Kong its place of registration.

    Chen Maobo noted that due to the excellent performance of the stock exchange, more and more companies are choosing to set up their headquarters, research centers and regional offices in the Hong Kong SAR, which in turn demonstrates the confidence of investors and enterprises in the Hong Kong SAR. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: A country of contrasts, united through stories. National Film Board of Canada 2025–2028 Strategic Plan now available.

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    Montreal, May 26, 2025 – The National Film Board of Canada (NFB) has now made its 2025–2028 Strategic Plan available.

    The plan lays out the NFB’s key priorities over the next three years:

    • Shape the NFB for next generations: Enlist emerging storytellers, engage new audiences, renew our organization.
    • Foster a culture of creativity and innovation: Empower artists to continue to push boundaries.
    • Elevate awareness of the NFB and esteem for the organization: Enhance public recognition of the NFB’s cultural contributions.
    • Expand and understand NFB audiences: Develop audience insights to evolve programming and increase engagement.

    These priorities are underpinned by the NFB’s ongoing commitments to gender parity, underrepresented communities, Indigenous communities, Francophone communities and official-language minority communities. The plan supports Indigenous narrative sovereignty and environmental, social and ethical sustainability.

    This plan is the result of consultations, discussions and surveys conducted with the industry and NFB collaborators. The plan strengthens the NFB’s dual purpose: to promote, preserve and reflect the Canadian sense of self while also serving as a galvanizing force for the country’s creative community, who hail from all backgrounds, generations and regions.

    QUOTE

    “Our 2025–2028 Strategic Plan speaks to our determination to tell bold, authentic, courageous stories that invite Canadians to see, listen, question and connect. This is our collective call to action—to creators, audiences and communities everywhere. In this moment of uncertainty, the role of inspiring and meaningful storytelling has never been more important as a means of protecting and ensuring the survival of our cultural sovereignty and identity. In a world searching for clarity and meaning, the NFB will always be here, crafting essential stories that matter, for a Canada ready to imagine what comes next.”

    – Suzanne Guèvremont, Government Film Commissioner and Chairperson of the NFB

    You can read the Strategic Plan and listen to the Commissioner’s overview of it in the Action podcast, here: www.nfb.ca/vision.

    Read the Strategic Plan summary here.

    About the NFB
    For more than 80 years, the National Film Board of Canada (NFB) has produced, distributed and preserved those stories, which now form a vast audiovisual collection—an important part of our cultural heritage that represents all Canadians.

    To tell these stories, the NFB works with filmmakers of all ages and backgrounds, from across the country. It harnesses their creativity to produce relevant and groundbreaking content for curious, engaged and diverse audiences. The NFB also collaborates with industry experts to foster innovation in every aspect of storytelling, from formats to distribution models.

    Every year, another 50 or so powerful new animated and documentary films are added to the NFB’s extensive collection of more than 14,000 titles, half of which are available to watch for free on NFB.ca.

    Through its mandate, its stature and its productions, the NFB contributes to Canada’s cultural identity and is helping to build the Canada of tomorrow.

    – 30 –

    Stay Connected

    Online Screening Room: nfb.ca
    NFB Facebook | NFB X | NFB Instagram | NFB Blog | NFB YouTube | NFB Vimeo
    Curator’s perspective | Director’s notes

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Vessel owner and skipper fails to meet legal obligations

    Source: Maritime New Zealand

    A skipper whose vessel sank off the South Island last year was operating it unlawfully at the time, failing to have obtained the required out of water survey.

    Wayne Jolly was the sole director and shareholder of Aurora Oceania Limited, which owned and operated the commercial fishing vessel, Aurora.

    On 7 March, 2022, the vessel sank about a nautical mile off the Catlins coast

    Mr Jolly has this week been sentenced after formally pleading guilty to one charge of failing to comply with the provisions and conditions of the vessel’s Maritime Transport Operator Certificate under s 69B of the Maritime Transport Act 1994.

    “While we cannot confirm this failure to comply has a link to the sinking of the vessel in March 2022, the purpose of the relevant requirements is to protect vessels, the environment and the lives of those on-board.

    “As the vessel was lost at sea, Maritime NZ investigators were unable to examine its physical state, and in turn confirm what caused it to sink,” Investigation’s Manager at Maritime NZ John Maxwell says.

    As the sole director of the company, Wayne Jolly was required to ensure any ship run under his company’s management was operating in line with the required safety management systems for the vessel.

    In order for a vessel, such as the Aurora to be compliant, it needs to have a current Certificate of Survey, these are issued by maritime surveyors.

    Owners and operators have the primary responsibility for their vessels safety at all times.

    “The Aurora’s CoS was valid until 2023, but subject to a range of conditions including requiring it to have an out-of-water survey by March 2021. This survey was never undertaken.

    “Given the survey wasn’t completed by its March 2021 due date, the Certificate of Survey was invalid when it sank a year later.

    “Failing to complete the out-of-water survey meant there wasn’t up to date information on the condition on the vessel nor an opportunity to identify any safety risks that need to be fixed” John Maxwell says.

    Maritime NZ says it is vital operators understand their safety responsibilities, not only in respect of their vessels but also the crew and our environment.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Maritime NZ response to TAIC report into the fatal Enchanter capsizing

    Source: Maritime New Zealand

    The capsizing of the Enchanter, on 20 March 2022, was a tragic incident.

    The thoughts of those at Maritime NZ go out to everyone impacted by the events of that evening.

    Maritime NZ Director, Kirstie Hewlett, says this was a complicated response, requiring aircraft to quickly respond from around the top of the North Island, which played a key role in five people being rescued.

    “I want to thank everyone who was involved in the response, from our people at RCCNZ, through to those who went out in trying conditions, to undertake rescues and then continue to search for the missing,” Ms Hewlett says.

    The report contains several recommendations directed to Maritime NZ. While others, focusing on search and rescue, are connected to the work undertaken by Maritime NZ’s Rescue Coordination Centre.

    “We partially accept the recommendations directed to us by the Commission,” she says.

    This report contains recommendations relating to Maritime NZ’s supervision and work with surveyors, who examine commercial vessels to confirm that the condition of their structure, machinery and equipment comply with the applicable maritime and marine protection rules.

    We partially accept the recommendations regarding surveyors. This is because we already engage with, and notify, surveyors around rule and regulation changes and provide clarification around the intent of rules.

    “This includes running regular conferences, seminars and providing regular industry updates on rule and technology changes. As well as providing technical advice and support where needed. We also work closely with surveyors on the development of new rules and amendment to rules, like we are currently on the 40 series rules.

    “We are undertaking work to further strengthen our approach to monitoring surveyors, and are currently out consulting on an increase to our capacity to support this. We appreciate that there are dozens of surveyors working up and down the country, and we know it is important to ensure they are undertaking their roles appropriately and to high standards. We will consider the Commission’s recommendations and observations further as part of this work.” Ms Hewlett says

    Maritime NZ is considering the recommendation around requirements for automated identification systems (AIS) to be fitted on passenger vessels outside inshore limits and the stowage of life jackets.

    “The matter around AIS systems is already one that is on our regulatory reform programme to explore. Progressing it could improve response times and can accurately give location data. The stowage of life jackets is something new we will look at. Both Rules changes will also need to be considered alongside other priorities. Ultimately, it will be for Ministers to decide whether to approve the development of new rules,” Ms Hewlett says.

    The Rescue Coordination Centre will also take interest in the recommendations around search and rescue.

    “After the incident, RCCNZ undertook an internal review into its coordination of the response, and has since made several improvements to its procedures.

    “We will support any response by Te Manatū Waka and the New Zealand Search and Rescue Secretariat,” Ms Hewlett says.

    As the matter is before the courts, we are not in a position to comment further. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Maritime NZ announces safer boating funding for 2023

    Source: Maritime New Zealand

    Maritime NZ has announced recipients of its annual Community Grant funding for safety programmes to help reduce fatalities and injuries to people out on the water in recreational craft.

    In total, 21 projects and initiatives around the country will share $876,680 worth of funding. In 2022, 24 projects shared $853,000.

    In 2022 there were 17 deaths (spread across 16 incidents) related to recreational craft. The number of fatalities has remained relatively consistent over the last decade, despite significant efforts from recreational craft safety-focussed organisations.

    For Maritime NZ Director, Kirstie Hewlett, these fatalities and the substantial number of preventable harm incidents are of significant concern for her and the rest of Maritime NZ. 

    “With nearly two million people in New Zealand undertaking activities on the water, we know it is very important to get the right safety messages out to a wide range of people, from different backgrounds, all over Aotearoa.

    “At Maritime NZ, we will be looking for opportunities to promote the work of other organisations to reduce harm, and are keen to see collaborative approaches to safety across the sector.

    “No one organisation has the answer or the ability to reach everyone. This is why it is important to work together to increase water users’ knowledge on how to be safe on the water, and ultimately bring down instances of harm.

    A key part of the funding allocation decision was looking at how to reach at-risk groups.

    “There are several initiatives that are targeted to supporting different ethnic groups, including Pasifika, Asian and Māori communities.

    “Across New Zealand, we know there are differing levels of safety knowledge, safety equipment owned by water users and language barriers for some communities. It is hugely important we keep up our previous momentum with supporting these communities and have them prioritising safety.

    “Everyone should go home safely from a day out on the water.

    “It is vital water users understand the rules and know how to keep themselves safe,” Ms Hewlett says.

    The funding is split across local and national initiatives, with recipients located all around New Zealand. 

    Among the initiatives that have secured funding are Coastguard’s Old4New lifejacket upgrade programme, which includes Second Life Lifejackets and received $100,000; Northland Regional Council’s Nobody’s Stronger Than Tangaroa campaign, which received $85,000; and $70,000 for Bay of Plenty Regional Council’s Kia marutau ki te wai and Safety is Our Wai scheme.

    Beneficiary organisations include the Kayak Association of Sea Kayakers, Watersafe Auckland (Drowning Prevention Auckland), New Zealand Stand Up Paddling, Jet Boating NZ, and several regional councils.

    A key purpose of the fund is to support campaigns and collaboration led by the members of New Zealand’s Safer Boating Forum, a coalition of organisations dedicated to improving safety in the recreational boating sector.

    Successful recipients

    Council / Organisation

    Programme

    Funding Approved

    Bay of Plenty Regional Council
    Jon Jon Peters

    [email protected]

    Safety is our Wai & Kia marutau ki te wai
    Continuation of on-water safety programme to  Harbour & Lakes and safer boating education and resources specifically to local Iwi and Hapū

    $70,000

    Coastguard New Zealand Tautiaki Moana Aotearoa

    Daisy Docherty

    [email protected]

    Old4New Lifejacket Upgrade Programme including Second Life Lifejackets and Ngā Hue ō Hinemoa

    Continuation of the Old4New Lifejacket Upgrade campaign offering heavily discounted lifejackets and PFD’s to those who upgrade their old or damaged lifejackets across NZ and  providing new life jackets for at-risk communities Continuation of an existing programme to educate Pasifika boaties to be more knowledgeable and safer skippers.

    $100,000

    Environment Canterbury

    Gordon McKay

    [email protected]

    Canterbury Safe Boating Programme

    Continuation of programme to educate safer boating and providing an Enforcement Officer to specialise in educating the jet boat sector.

    $55,000

    Environment Southland
    Zak Smith

    [email protected]

    Environment Southland Boating Safety Program
     Continuation of existing programme to deliver consistent boating safety education to recreational boating operators on water and on boat ramps.

    $20,000

    Gisborne District Council
    Peter Buell
    [email protected]

    Tairāwhiti Haumaru Moana
    Continuation of  promoting safer boating throughout the region

    $48,000

    Greater Wellington Regional Council
    Grant Nalder
    [email protected]

    Do you know what you need to?
    To deliver nationally consistent safe boating messages and the aim is to make this relevant and available to a wide demographic through direct contact with a range of boaties.

    $58,410

    Hawke’s Bay Regional Council
    Adrian Wright

    [email protected] 

    Tamariki and Pakeke Boating Safety Programme
     Continuation of education program of delivering Safer Boating Education to local iwi and running a “Suddenly in Charge Course” at boating clubs around the region

    $18,000

    Jet Boating New Zealand Inc.

    Stephen Woodside
    [email protected]

    Jet Smart – Safer Jet Boating
    Continuation to produce a series of Jet Smart – Safer Jet Boating videos that contain safety messages focusing on river navigation.

    $36,650

    Kayak Association of Sea Kayakers (KASK)
    Steve Cooper

    [email protected]

    KayakSafe NZ
    Continuation of delivery of key kayaking safety messages through a variety of channels.

    $7,000

    Marlborough District Council

    Brittany Hamilton

    [email protected]

    Safer Boating Roadshow Marlborough – bringing boating safety to you!
     Visiting remote areas and promote safer boating behaviour. 

    $20,000

    Nelson City Council
    Stuart Whitehouse
    [email protected]

    Maritime Safety Internship
    Increasing safety education and compliance for Nelson waters

    $27,000

    Nelson City Council
    Stuart Whitehouse
    [email protected]

    Sup on water educational programme
    Continuation of programme to educate SUP users on safety and help develop skills about informed decision making in dynamic environments.

    $4,800

    New Zealand Stand Up Paddling Inc.  (NZSUP)
    Bill Dawes
    [email protected]

    SUP SAFE
     Continuation of campaign targeted at stand up paddle boarders to increase safety behaviours. 

    $24,000

    Northland Regional Council
    Peter Thomas
    [email protected]

    Nobody’s stronger then Tangaroa
    Continuation of engaging with remote communities with specific messaging and face to face engagement

    $85,000

    Queenstown Lakes District Council
    Isabelle Logez
    [email protected]

    QLDC Waterways Skipper Responsibility Campaign
    Increased public messaging to promote skipper responsibility of waterways within region, which solely comprises of inland waterways – rivers and lakes.

    $12,000

    Royal New Zealand Coastguard

    Marilyn Brady

    [email protected]

    Ko Tangata Moana

    To deliver safer boating courses to Maori, Pasifika and Asian communities

    $100,000

    Waikato Regional Council
    Chris Bredenbeck
    [email protected]

    Operation Neptune
    Continuation of on-water education with three primary tactics education, engagement and enforcement while delivering safety messages
     

    $45,000

    Waka Ama NZ
    Lara Collins
    [email protected]

    Waka Ama Water Safety
    Continuation of delivery of the CBE Waka Ama Safety Course to all waka ama paddlers around Aotearoa. 

    $46,000

    Watersafe Auckland Inc.(Drowning Prevention Auckland)
    Nicola Keen-Biggelaar
    [email protected]

    WaiWise for the Pacific, Asian and Indian communities
    Continuation of programme to provide specific drowning prevention education for the three at-risk communities in Tāmaki Makaurau.

    $50,000

    Watersafe Auckland Inc.(Drowning Prevention Auckland)
    Nicola Keen-Biggelaar
    [email protected]

    Supporting growth in use of Lifejacket Hubs for drowning prevention education
    Continuation to provide hubs where people can access lifejackets and support growing awareness of these hubs.

    $25,000

    Yachting New Zealand
    Raynor Haagh
    [email protected]

    Yachting New Zealand’s sailing experience RŪNĀ

    Continuation of the RŪNĀ framework to encourage a wider and more diverse range of students to connect with sailing both inside and outside the classroom  

    $25,000

    $876,680

    Note to editors

    • All of Maritime New Zealand’s recreational boating work is funded through fuel excise duty on petrol (about $5.4 million). This is from contributions to the tax boaties make when refuelling their boats. A portion of this funding is used to support the Community Grants programme
    • Maritime NZ also provides funding to a range of Councils around the country to support on-water compliance. Funding for ‘No Excuses’ and on-water compliance initiatives will not come out of community grants funding. Instead they will be supported from the on-water compliance funding budget.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Crown appointments to Maritime NZ Board announced

    Source: Maritime New Zealand

    Two new members have been appointed to the Maritime New Zealand Board, each serving a one year term.

    “The appointees have extensive governance experience and strong backgrounds in health & safety, regulation, port operations and logistics and will add significant skills and experience to the Board” Maritime NZ Board Chair, Dame Jo Brosnahan says.

    Ross Wilson was the National Secretary for the New Zealand Harbour Workers Union and General Secretary for the Rail and Maritime Transport Union during the 1980s and 1990s, becoming President of the New Zealand Council of Trade Unions in 1999.  Ross has extensive governance, health and safety, maritime, and regulatory experience. He led the development of the Government Regulatory Practice Initiative (G-Reg) Master Class for regulatory boards and was the Board Chair at WorkSafe New Zealand until 2022.  His knowledge will be valuable on the Authority, particularly as the Health and Safety at Work Act designations around ports are transferred from WorkSafe to MNZ over the next year.

    Parke Pittar has extensive operational experience in ports and logistics throughout New Zealand and offers broad operational maritime experience as well as being a Chartered Accountant. He was the former Chief Executive of C3 (NZ on port logistics and stevedoring service provider), former Chief Commercial Officer at Port Nelson, Container Terminal Manager at CentrePort, and a Stevedoring Supervisor, and is now Chief Executive of AVA Timber, one of New Zealand’s largest exporters. His stevedoring and logistics experience are a big value add for the Authority’s work, as is his deep understanding of the work that takes place on ports and in the broader maritime sector.

    The appointment of Ross Wilson and Parke Pittar bring the total number of members to six – one above the minimum specified by the Act Crown Entities Act 2004 – and fill a vacancy created by the resignation of Mike Purchase on May 2023.

    More information on our governance board

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: SAR teams support trapped tramper with survival kit as bad weather delays rescue

    Source: Maritime New Zealand

    A survival kit dropped to a tramper in snowy conditions played a key role in keeping him alive through freezing conditions before rescuers could reach him.

    The tramper, a Danish national, was in the Two Thumbs Range, North West of Tekapo. He initially contacted police for assistance by way of a broken 111 call, after heavy snow closed in around him late in the afternoon of Wednesday, 26 July. Through the call, police were only about to get an approximate location for the tramper. He later activated his personal locator beacon which provided an accurate GPS location.

    Maritime NZ’s RCCNZ coordinated the response, after receiving the beacon activation. With darkness setting in, RCCNZ tasked a night-vision and winch-equipped Garden City Helicopter from Christchurch to assist the man. The helicopter got overhead of the tramper, but two winch attempts to lower a medic failed due to the new snow recirculation and limited definition on the night vision devices.

    “There was about a metre and a half of snow in the area. The rotors of the helicopters were forcing it up, meaning they were unable to safely land in the area,” Manager, RCCNZ and Safety Systems Justin Allan says. 

    The situation was then reviewed and it was decided rescuers were unable to extract the man that day. Conversations then took place about how to best support him through the night. 

    Our search and rescue officers got in touch with the team at Southern Lakes Helicopter and the Department of Conservation’s Aoraki Search & Rescue Team to look at options to support the response. 

    “While the man was reasonably well prepared for the conditions, a decision was made to supply him a survival bag containing a tent, radio, light, sleeping bag and extra clothing to help him manage in the freezing temperatures,” Allan says. 

    Aoraki Search & Rescue Team Leader, Dave Lewis says it was important to get the tramper the resources he needed in trying conditions. 

    “Temperatures were exceptionally cold, with a lot of snow around. There was also an incoming storm setting in for the night. Ensuring he had extra equipment played a crucial role in him surviving the night,” he says. 

    RCCNZ maintained contact with the tramper overnight to ensure he was coping with the conditions. The tramper was airlifted back to Tekapo on Thursday 27 July at about 11 am.

    Tramping in snowy conditions? Think before you go

    Justin Allan says anyone planning on heading out in this sort of weather needs to understand the conditions and reflect on them against their capabilities. 

    “In locations with significant snow, we recommend trampers check out the advice the Mountain Safety Council has developed,” he says. 

    “From RCCNZ we want to thank the on-the-ground teams who worked tirelessly in trying conditions to ensure the tramper had the supplies he needed to last the night, and then got him safely to Tekapo” Justin Allan says.

    Link

    Mountain Safety Council’s advice on avalanche safety

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