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Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Is Contacting People Affected by Tropical Storm Debby and Hurricane Helene

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: FEMA Is Contacting People Affected by Tropical Storm Debby and Hurricane Helene

    FEMA Is Contacting People Affected by Tropical Storm Debby and Hurricane Helene

    ATLANTA – Georgians who apply for disaster assistance for Tropical Storm Debby or Hurricane Helene may be eligible for assistance for both disasters. FEMA is placing calls to survivors in Bryan, Bulloch, Chatham, Effingham, Evans, Liberty, Long, and Screven counties who only registered for one of the disasters to inform them that they can apply for assistance for both disasters if they sustained damaged from both storms. 

    These calls may come from unfamiliar area codes or phone numbers. FEMA may also send a text message if they are unable to reach you by phone. If you are concerned about verifying if it is FEMA, you can call 800-621-3362. FEMA representatives never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help in filling out applications. Their services are free.

    Applications for both storms must be submitted separately. Eligible survivors affected by both storms may receive funds for food, water, baby formula and other emergency needs as well as money to help pay for a temporary place to stay. Federal grant funds may help with survivors’ immediate housing needs and can be used for the cost of staying with friends and family or hotel/motel lodging. If applicants already created a Login.gov account, they may use that same account in accessing both applications.

    Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App or call 800-621-3362 to apply for FEMA assistance. The telephone line is open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. To view an accessible video on how to apply visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance – YouTube.

    When applying, people will need to describe what damage occurred and on what date, to ensure federal disaster assistance from the two storms is not duplicated. Keep all receipts for expenses associated both disasters, including:

    • Home repairs
    • Repairs to a septic system, water well or private road
    • Purchase of a generator or chainsaw
    • Replacement of personal property items such as appliances
    • Vehicle repairs or replacement
    • Insurance settlement or denial

    For the latest information about Georgia’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4821 and fema.gov/disaster/4830. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

    sandra.habib
    Wed, 10/09/2024 – 13:11

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Isle of Wight Carers Support Service, share your experience 9 October 2024 carer survey, support services

    Source: Aisle of Wight

    During 2025 the Isle of Wight Council will be renewing its contract to provide information, advice, guidance and support for unpaid carers across the Isle of Wight.

    We want to make sure that the views of local unpaid carers, about the support they need in this area help us to shape theses services moving forward. If you are, or were, or are likely to become and unpaid carer, the council would like to hear from you. Your experience, knowledge and comments are invaluable.

    All you need to do to share your thoughts is to complete a very short survey which can be found at Isle of Wight Carers Support Service – User Experience Survey 2024  The survey should take 5 – 10 minutes to complete and all feedback will be taken on-board and considered to shape the service plan. The closing date for the survey is Saturday 30 November. If you would prefer a paper version of the survey this can be arranged by contacting Liz.Hennessy@iow.gov.uk

    Laura Gaudion, director of adult social services ‘’The Isle of Wight Council recognises unpaid carers as the ‘quiet heroes’ in our Island’s community and want to ensure that they have the help and support to enable them to carry out their caring responsibilities while improving and protecting their own wellbeing.  We want to make sure that the carers services we put in place for local people are of the highest quality so that carers on the Island receive the best possible support to enable them to look after the people they care for.’’

    Carers who would like to discuss views or receive help to complete this survey can attend a public meeting and drop-in session on Tuesday 22 October between 2pm and 5pm at the Riverside Centre, The Quay, Newport, Isle of Wight PO30 2QR.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Smart New Laser Technology Can Monitor Greenhouse Gases Faster, More Sensitively

    Source: US Government research organizations

    Esther Baumann works in the lab where a team of researchers has developed an improved version of a laser-based measurement technique called dual-comb spectroscopy. 

    Credit: R.Jacobson/NIST

    Scientists at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) have developed a new laser-based technique that could dramatically improve our ability to analyze a variety of materials and gases, including greenhouse gases. This new method, called “free-form dual-comb spectroscopy,” offers a faster, more flexible and more sensitive way to analyze substances in the air and other materials.

    In this specific study, published in Nature Photonics, researchers demonstrated that their laboratory-based system could detect a single gas, in this case the potent greenhouse gas methane, with 22 times higher sensitivity than a traditional dual-comb system. This increased sensitivity could one day help identify small leaks or emissions that might otherwise go unnoticed, potentially aiding in efforts to combat climate change.

    Technological Advancements

    Spectroscopy is a sophisticated technique that allows scientists to identify and measure different materials by observing how they interact with light. Just as a prism separates white light into a rainbow of colors, spectroscopy separates the light coming from or passing through a substance, revealing its unique “fingerprint” and providing valuable information about its properties and composition.

    The NIST researchers have created an improved version of a laser-based measurement technique called dual-comb spectroscopy. Dual-comb spectroscopy is a particularly high-resolution form of spectroscopy that allows many colors of light to be examined at the same time and in fine detail.

    The new laser measurement technique improves on older methods by allowing scientists to control the timing of laser pulses with incredible precision. This precise control lets them focus on the most important parts of a sample’s fingerprint and ignore areas that don’t provide useful information. As a result, the smarter system can detect and measure substances much faster than before.

    This new approach can be used in several ways. For example, scientists can use it to quickly create images showing how the gas is distributed in space. Alternatively, if researchers don’t know exactly what kind of gas is in the area they are investigating, they can use a generic technique called compressive sampling. This is a “smart” method of making measurements, concentrating on areas likely to have important information and taking fewer measurements elsewhere. This strategy makes the whole process 10 to 100 times more efficient than traditional methods.

    Visualizing Gas Plumes

    This technology can create fast, detailed images of a variety of gas clouds. In this study, researchers created real-time images of methane plumes. Methane is a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change, so being able to detect and address these leaks efficiently could one day help protect the environment and improve air quality. By quickly generating images of methane plumes, scientists could quickly identify where gas is escaping. 

    Methane cloud with free-form dual-comb spectroscopy

    Researchers use free-form dual-comb spectroscopy to make videos like this 2D methane cloud. Dark areas mean there’s little or no methane present, while brighter colors show where there’s more methane. Because it can take pictures very quickly, this technology can show how the methane cloud creates swirling patterns and changes in real time, which wasn’t possible previously. This technology can be easily adjusted to look for different gases, not just methane.

    This technique is useful not only for detecting greenhouse gases but for any situation in which scientists need to identify and measure gases.

    Two Lasers Are Better Than One

    Free-form dual-comb spectroscopy may be a mouthful to pronounce, but understanding how this technology works can be more easily digested by breaking it down into several parts that work seamlessly together.

    The heart of this method lies in the Nobel Prize-winning optical frequency comb, a laser tool that produces light at a series of equally spaced, precise frequencies that resemble the teeth of a comb. These frequency combs are used for a variety of purposes, from precision timekeeping to medical diagnostics and even the search for elusive dark matter.

    The “dual-comb” aspect of this technology refers to the use of two optical frequency combs working together. This approach enables rapid, precise measurements of substances by analyzing how they interact with the light from both combs. This technique is much faster than a single comb and can provide more detailed information than many traditional spectroscopy methods.

    “Free-form” refers to the flexibility in highly precise frequency comb control that has recently become possible. The frequency combs emit light pulses that are just 100 femtoseconds in duration. Inside each of these brief light bursts, there’s an electric field that vibrates extremely rapidly, millions of millions of times per second. The ability to quickly and accurately control this fast light allows researchers to improve and adjust how they take measurements.

    Dual-Comb’s Next Big Leap

    As the world grapples with environmental challenges and the need for improved safety measures, this innovative laser technology offers a promising new tool. By enabling smarter detection of gases and other substances, it could play a crucial role in protecting both public health and the environment in the years to come.

    The researchers plan to continue improving their system in the laboratory, making it even faster and adapting their approach to work with a wide range of laser wavelengths.

    “The flexibility of our system means it could be adapted for a wide range of applications,” said NIST researcher Esther Baumann. “In the future, we might see more versatile and efficient sensors based on this technology in everything from air quality monitors to food safety detectors to studying how materials burn or assessing muscle health noninvasively.”

    Paper: Fabrizio R. Giorgetta, Simon Potvin, Jean-Daniel Deschênes, Ian Coddington, Nathan R. Newbury and Esther Baumann. Free-form dual-comb spectroscopy for compressive sensing and imaging. Nature Photonics. Published online Sept 30, 2024. DOI:10.1038/s41566-024-01530-y

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Video: Vuk Talks Season 2 Episode 22 Joseph Maraba Electricity Regulation Amendment Act

    Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements-2)

    President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed into law the Electricity Regulation Amendment Act which sets out far-reaching reforms of South Africa’s electricity sector, including the establishment of a competitive electricity market.

    The Bill assented to by the President amends the Electricity Regulation Act of 2006 to respond to current realities in the electricity sector and open up pathways to greater competition and reduced energy costs; increase investment in new generation capacity to achieve energy security; establish an independent transmission company as the custodian of the national grid; and impose severe penalties for damage to and sabotage of infrastructure.

    Joseph Maraba breaks down this act and its implications.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l0kW_nMYDZ0

    MIL OSI Video –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Video: Learn the history of the 25th Infantry Division | U.S. Army

    Source: US Army (video statements)

    The 25th ID was activated on October 1, 1941 at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. Its mission: to deter adversaries by building, sustaining and forward-posturing ready forces alongside allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility. On order, 25th Infantry Division fights & wins in large scale combat operations.

    About the U.S. Army:

    The Army Mission – our purpose – remains constant: To deploy, fight and win our nation’s wars by providing ready, prompt & sustained land dominance by Army forces across the full spectrum of conflict as part of the joint force.

    Interested in joining the U.S. Army?
    Visit: spr.ly/6001igl5L

    Connect with the U.S. Army online:
    Web: https://www.army.mil Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USarmy/ X: https://www.twitter.com/USArmy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usarmy/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/us-army
    #USArmy #Soldiers #Military #25ID #Schofield #Hawaii

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lR5AKd9SlwY

    MIL OSI Video –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Celebrates ENERGY STAR Day with Facility Efficiency & Green Shipping

    Source: Samsung

    As we celebrate the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) ENERGY STAR Day on October 9 and Energy Awareness Month throughout October, Samsung Electronics America is proud to spotlight two significant milestones that reflect our unwavering commitment to sustainability. From energy-efficient operations to greener transportation methods, Samsung continues to lead by example in reducing our environmental impact. Our Logan, Utah facility recently earned the EPA’s ENERGY STAR Challenge for Industry recognition, and we’ve also joined the EPA’s SmartWay® Transport Partnership, both reflecting our dedication to creating a more sustainable future.
    Leading by Example: EPA Recognition for Energy Efficiency at Logan, Utah Facility
    In a major achievement aligned with the spirit of Energy Awareness Month, the Prismview – A Samsung Electronics Company commercial display manufacturing facility based in Logan, Utah, was recognized by the EPA for reducing its energy intensity by 10% in just one year, earning the prestigious ENERGY STAR Challenge for Industry designation. This challenge encourages industrial sites worldwide to reduce their energy intensity by 10% over five years. Samsung’s Logan site accomplished this goal far ahead of schedule, thanks to the efforts of our Workplace Operations and Facility Management teams, who developed and implemented energy demand mitigation strategies across our enterprise.

    MIL OSI Economics –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN attends the ASEAN Leaders’ Interface with ASEAN-Business Advisory Council

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn attended the ASEAN Leaders’ Interface with ASEAN-Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC) in Vientiane, Lao PDR, on 9 October 2024. The ASEAN Leaders welcomed the ASEAN-BAC recommendations and encouraged the business community to play an active role in expanding trade and investment across the region, embracing digital transformation and sustainable development, and supporting deeper regional economic integration.

    MIL OSI Economics –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Students of SPbGASU attended a lecture by a representative of the company “ROCKWOOL”

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Students at a lecture

    Leading specialist in training development at ROCKWOOL Natalia Pakhomova gave a lecture to students of SPbGASU on improving the energy efficiency of buildings and fire safety using building materials. The company representative explained that these issues are very relevant, and therefore will be interesting and useful for senior students both for writing final qualifying papers and in general for improving their professional competencies.

    ROCKWOOL is the largest manufacturer of insulation materials and solutions made of stone wool. 25 years ago, the company launched its first production in Russia. Today, ROCKWOOL heat and sound insulation is manufactured in the Moscow region, Vyborg, Chelyabinsk region and Tatarstan. Speaking about the advantages of stone wool products and solutions, designs and their application, Natalia Pakhomova drew the students’ attention to the fact that the raw materials and components of the materials are exclusively Russian, which increases their availability.

    “Our company has developed a series of lectures on various topics: energy efficiency, fire safety, technology of production of building materials, including stone wool. Therefore, we have something to tell to any faculty, course of specialized universities. We have accumulated quite a lot of experience related to the production and use of stone wool, and we want to share our expertise, promote safe, energy-efficient, fire-safe solutions and products. We closely cooperate with SPbGASU and, for our part, are interested in joint training of sought-after specialists,” explained Natalia Pakhomova.

    Associate Professor of the Department of Metal and Wooden Constructions of SPbGASU, PhD in Engineering Stefania Mironova suggested expanding cooperation and, if possible, jointly developing the topic of master’s theses. It turned out that the company “ROCKWOOL” also has experience of such cooperation, and it is ready to increase it. In addition, the company practices organizing internships.

    Fourth-year student of the Department of Construction Technology Anita Agzamova has heard about this company. In the construction of the building, which she plans to take as an object for her final qualifying work, the insulation for walls “ROCKWOOL” is used.

    “During this lecture, I clearly saw how this is applied in practice. The format of such lectures is very interesting and effective, since we are not familiar with educational and theoretical projects, but with practical solutions. It is useful to learn about them, about what new technologies are being implemented in the industry. The opportunity for an internship is also inspiring, motivating and opens the way to the professional sphere,” Anita said.

    Alla Kadyrova, a specialist at the Center for Student Entrepreneurship and Career at SPbGASU, reminded students that such meetings with industry representatives will continue, but this is not the only option for assistance in employment from our university. Thus, at the Center for Student Entrepreneurship and Career, students are helped to write a resume, consulted on job search issues, and offered vacancies in their specialty from the university’s partners.

    “If you are not considering a job but intend to engage in entrepreneurship, we invite you to take part in hackathons, accelerators, incubators – federal projects, within the framework of which, on the way to implementing your idea, you will be able to assemble a team, develop an economic model, meet partners and even receive funding. We also help implement the “Startup as a Diploma” program. This is an alternative to the traditional final qualifying work or master’s thesis, where students prepare their business project,” explained Alla Kadyrova.

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

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

    http://www.spbgasu.ru/nevs-and-events/nevs/students-spbgasu-attended-a-lecture-by-a-representative-of-the-rockwool-company/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New funding to support autistic and learning-disabled people in Westminster | Westminster City Council

    Source: City of Westminster

    A charity in London will support the “hidden population” of autistic and learning-disabled people in Westminster, thanks to new funding. 

    Learning Disability Network London (LDN London) currently runs a community centre, the Enablement Hub, on the Harrow Road in Westminster. With support from Westminster Council the charity will expand its current community programme to Victoria, giving advice and running workshops at a second Hub at Victoria Library.

    The charity will grow its team to help more people in the local community.   

    LDN London’s Enablement Hubs support learning disabled and autistic people who get little or no support to manage their lives. They take part in workshops about life skills, including health and relationships, finance, and safety, make friends, and join in activities and events.

    With this funding from Westminster Council’s Fairer Westminster Investment Programme, LDN London will be able to reach more learning disabled and autistic people across Westminster who want help in their daily lives.

    On Friday 13 September, LDN London and Westminster Council officially opened the new Enablement Hub at Victoria Library with a ribbon-cutting and a workshop.  

    Councillor Nafsika Butler-Thalassis, Westminster’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, attended the event. She said:

    “I am so pleased that we are funding LDN London to provide much-needed support, advice, and activities for learning disabled and autistic residents. This is an important step towards ensuring learning disabled and autistic residents are empowered to extend their independence, learn new skills and participate in activities they enjoy.”

     

    Kym, a local resident who regularly goes to the Enablement Hubs, said:

    “I really enjoy coming along to the sessions, especially the sports, dancing and singing sessions. I’ve also enjoyed helping and volunteering. It’s been great socially too and meeting other residents.”

    LDN London will also recruit five new team members as part of this programme, including two autistic or learning disabled apprentices.

    The charity will hire two community outreach workers to give up to 25 hours one-to-one help, supporting people with managing bills, going to health appointments, and completing forms. LDN London will also employ a community engagement worker to lead on initiatives for autistic people.

    Sally, who is one of the interns for LDN London’s Enablement Hub, said:

    “I’ve enjoyed the sessions and as part of it I’ve been given the opportunity to be an intern at LDN London focusing on community engagement. I’ve learnt quite a lot”.

    LDN London has been supporting learning disabled and autistic people in London for over 60 years. The charity was previously named The Westminster Society.

    The Enablement Hubs are tackling inequalities faced by learning disabled and autistic people. Those who don’t qualify for support often must do tasks they find difficult on their own. They also face many challenges in their daily lives because of a lack of the right support and prejudice in society- including poor healthcare, higher rates of mental health problems, loneliness and being victims of crime and hate crimes.

    The charity’s aim for The Enablement Hubs is to support people with learning disabilities to overcome social isolation, be more independent and to be fully included in the community.

    Mandy Crowford, Assistant CEO at LDN London, said: “Too many learning disabled, and autistic people don’t get the support they want and need, and we hope to change that. We want to help this hidden population to live safe, happy and healthy lives.”

    Luana Baptista, head of community engagement at LDN London, said: “We are grateful for this funding, which means we can reach even more learning disabled and autistic people and help them to be fully included in our communities.”

    The workshops at The Enablement Hubs focus on life skills that help people to live independently and have healthy, safe and fulfilling lives. Recent workshops have been on voting, having healthy relationships, inclusive trips to The British Museum, as well as regular men’s and women’s groups.

    If you would like to find out more about The Enablement Hubs, visit Learning Disability Network London’s website:

    LDN Community Hubs

    LDN London’s Hubs are based at 389A Harrow Road and at Victoria Library.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to Hurricane Milton

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    October 9, 2024

    Scientists comment on Hurricane Milton in the Gulf of Mexico. 

    Prof Ilan Kelman, Professor of Disasters and Health, University College London, said:

    “Florida should have been braced for catastrophic impacts from Hurricane Milton, especially storm surge and rainfall flooding. The possible disaster is sadly unsurprising, since Florida sits in the usual hurricane zone and it is now hurricane season. Yet the state permitted building development in dangerous locations and does not always support people who need help over the long-term to be ready for hazards.

    “Human-caused climate change is strengthening hurricanes while reducing their frequency. Hurricane Milton shows exactly the climate change influence we would expect from higher storm intensity.

    “Given Florida’s hurricane history including previous storms in this area in 1848, 1921, and 1946, they should have been much more prepared over the long-term. Planning decisions creating dangers and long-term lack of services to assist people who cannot help themselves for known hazards are all about choices to make disasters.”

    Prof Liz Stephens, Professor in Climate Risks and Resilience, University of Reading, said:

    “The wide area of intense winds and rainfall from Hurricane Milton will mean that many communities in Florida who are still recovering from the impacts of Hurricane Helene will be affected again by this latest storm, even though Milton is expected to make landfall further south.

    “Hurricane Milton is forecasted to track across Florida and out into the North Atlantic Ocean. This means that we are not expecting to see the same flash flooding and mudslide impacts as Helene in areas such as the Appalachian mountains, caused by Helene decaying over land.

    “Rising sea surface temperatures as a result of climate change are fuelling the intensity of hurricanes, and the warmer atmosphere can carry more water. This means that the storms which do form are becoming more impactful.

    “Further research is needed to understand how the risk of consecutive hurricanes is changing, as these clusters of events can greatly stretch resources for emergency preparedness and response.”

    Prof Hannah Cloke, Professor of Hydrology, University of Reading, said:

    “Hurricane winds grab people’s attention, but flooding is probably the biggest concern with Milton. Winds of 150mph can easily destroy buildings and cause injuries and fatalities if people are caught out in the open by flying debris. 

     “There are three types of floods that cause the biggest damage – storm surge causing coastal flooding, flash floods from the extremely heavy rain, and river floods as all that water rushes down channels and onto floodplains. 

     “People’s attention may be turned to the sky, but emergency planners will be worried about what is coming from below.”

    Prof John Marsham, Professor of Atmospheric Science, University of Leeds, said:

    How does climate change impact extreme weather?

    “Weather extremes increase rapidly for even apparently small increases in global temperature – this is true for heatwaves, floods, droughts and intensity of hurricanes.

    Is climate change making hurricanes more common/worse?

    “Many aspects of Helene and Milton are absolutely what we expect from climate change – hurricanes need warm oceans to form, and record-breaking ocean temperatures are fuelling these devastating storms. Warm air holds more water, giving heavier rain and more flooding. Increased sea-levels from climate change give more coastal flooding when hurricanes create a temporary “storm surge” rise in sea level. Finally, climate change can give shorter gaps between extreme events allowing less time to recover – we’re now seeing people affected by Helene now having to prepare for Milton. If we rapidly phase out fossil fuels, we can stop these extremes getting much worse but will have to continue to cope with the new climate we have created and will likely have to cope with rising sea levels for centuries.

    What is particularly worrying about this hurricane?

    “As a climate scientist, and a parent, every extreme weather event is now a reminder of the catastrophe we will face if we do not rapidly phase out fossil fuels. The tragedy is that climate scientists have been warning of this for decades. Rapid action is critical. Most people in the UK want more action on climate change and underestimate how much other people do. We have solutions and rapid action will save trillions.”

    Declared interests:

    Prof Ilan Kelman: No interests to declare

    Prof Liz Stephens: “I also work for the Red Cross Red Crescent Climate Centre”

    Prof John Marsham: “I receive funding from UKRI, FCDO and the Met Office”

    For all other experts, no reply to our request for DOIs was received.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Tobique First Nation — One individual arrested following firearm and drug trafficking investigation

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    A 51-year-old man from Tobique First Nation, has been arrested in connection with a firearm and drug trafficking investigation in Tobique First Nation, N.B.

    On October 3, 2024, the Western Valley Region RCMP executed a search warrant at a residence on New Road, in Tobique First Nation. During the search, police seized firearms, a quantity of suspected cocaine and drug trafficking paraphernalia.

    The 51-year-old man was arrested at the scene and later released. He is scheduled to appear in court at a later date.

    Members of the West District Crime Reduction Unit, Police Dog Services, and Emergency Response Team assisted with the search.

    The public plays an important role in helping to reduce, prevent and solve crime, including the trafficking of illegal drugs. Anyone with information about, or who suspects, illegal drug activity in their neighbourhood is asked to contact their local police. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), by downloading the secure P3 Mobile App, or by Secure Web Tips at http://www.crimenb.ca.

    The investigations are ongoing.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Met identify man that died following stabbing at a house in Canning Town

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Detectives have launched a murder investigation following a stabbing at a house in Canning Town at the weekend.

    Raish Ahmed, 50, died following the assault and two other people were also injured.

    Police were called to a residential property in Hartington Road shortly after 16:30hrs on Saturday, 5 October to reports of a stabbing.

    Officers attended along with paramedics from the London Ambulance Service where they found Mr Ahmed with stab wounds.

    A teenage boy was also found with a slash injury, whilst another man, aged 41, was also assaulted. Both injuries were assessed as not life-threatening.

    Mr Ahmed was taken to hospital for treatment, but despite the best efforts of emergency services he sadly died in hospital on Monday, 7 October.

    A murder investigation was then launched by officers from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command.

    His next-of-kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.

    Daniel Whybrow, 46 (03.10.78), of Hartington Road, E16, was charged on Sunday, 6 October with attempted murder, the charges of which will now be reviewed by the CPS following Mr Ahmed’s death.

    Whybrow was also charged with grievous bodily harm, threats to kill, racially aggravated assault and possession of an offensive weapon.

    He will next appear at Isleworth Crown Court on Monday, 4 November.

    Police are not looking for anyone else involved in this attack.

    Anyone with information is asked to contact the police incident room on 0208 721 4961 or 101, quoting CAD 4781/05OCT.

    Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: North Carolina Physician and Medical Practice Agree to Pay $625,000 to Settle Kickback Allegations

    Source: United States Department of Justice Criminal Division

    Dr. Eric Troyer, of Landis, North Carolina, and his medical practice, Troyer Medical Inc. P.C. (TMI), have agreed to pay $429,254 to the United States to resolve alleged False Claims Act violations arising from their involvement in laboratory kickback schemes. Troyer and TMI will pay an additional $195,746 to the State of North Carolina, which jointly funded claims paid by the North Carolina Medicaid program. Troyer and his practice have agreed to cooperate with the Justice Department’s investigations of other participants in the alleged schemes.

    “Kickbacks to healthcare providers can undermine the integrity of taxpayer-funded healthcare programs and medical decision making,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “We will continue to pursue those who pay or receive illegal financial inducements, including unlawful inducements for laboratory testing.”

    The Anti-Kickback Statute prohibits offering, paying, soliciting or receiving remuneration to induce referrals of items or services covered by Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE and other federally funded healthcare programs. The Anti-Kickback Statute is intended to ensure that medical providers’ judgments are not compromised by improper financial incentives and are instead based on the best interests of their patients.

    The settlement announced today resolves allegations that, from August 2015 to November 2021, Troyer and his medical practice received kickbacks from a laboratory in Anderson, South Carolina, in return for Troyer’s referrals to that laboratory. According to the settlement, the kickbacks to Troyer and his medical practice allegedly were disguised as payments for purported phlebotomy services, rental of office space and the lease of a chemistry analyzer machine and resulted in the submission of false or fraudulent laboratory testing claims to Medicare, Medicaid and TRICARE in violation of the False Claims Act.

    “Patients should be able trust that their healthcare provider’s recommendations are for their well-being and not for the provider’s financial gain,” said U.S. Attorney Adair Ford Boroughs for the District of South Carolina. “We will continue to hold accountable those who undermine the integrity of the healthcare system by giving or receiving kickbacks.”

    “This resolution demonstrates the FBI’s dedication to addressing violations that undermine the public’s trust in our healthcare systems,” said Special Agent in Charge Steve Jensen of the FBI Columbia Field Office. “The FBI, along with our law enforcement and regulatory partners, remains committed to ensuring healthcare professionals provide transparent and ethical standards of service.”

    “Kickback arrangements aimed at improperly influencing medical decisions will remain a top investigative priority for our agency,” said Special Agent in Charge Tamala E. Miles of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “Our ongoing enforcement efforts in this area are focused on protecting the integrity of taxpayer-funded healthcare programs like Medicare and Medicaid, and preventing schemes that could improperly manipulate the healthcare decisions of patients and their doctors.”

    “Improper financial relationships between physicians and laboratories undermine patient healthcare and trust,” said Special Agent in Charge Christopher Dillard of Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS) Mid-Atlantic Field Office. “Kickbacks should never be a consideration in a medical practice selecting a company for laboratory testing. DCIS will continue to bring to justice medical providers who illegally enrich themselves at the expense of the American taxpayer and wellbeing of our Warfighters.”

    The settlement was the result of a coordinated effort between the Civil Division’s Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of South Carolina, with assistance from HHS-OIG, DCIS, FBI and the Medicaid Investigations Division of the North Carolina Attorney General’s Office.

    Senior Trial Counsel Christopher Terranova of the Civil Division’s Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Beth C. Warren for the District of South Carolina handled the case. The United States previously resolved allegations that other physicians in South Carolina, North Carolina and Texas received kickbacks from the same laboratory.

    The government’s pursuit of this matter illustrates the government’s emphasis on combating health care fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse and mismanagement can be reported to HHS at 1-800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).

    The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only. There has been no determination of liability.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CE mourns Wu Bangguo

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Chief Executive John Lee expressed his profound sorrow over the passing of former Chairman of the Standing Committee of the 10th and 11th National People’s Congress (NPC) Wu Bangguo.

    Mr Lee pointed out that Mr Wu had all along held the development of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region close to his heart, and had reached out to people from all walks of life during his various visits to Hong Kong, fully demonstrating the central authorities’ unwavering support for the city.

    He also noted that Mr Wu had reiterated on multiple occasions the central government’s firm commitment to the implementation of “one country, two systems”, under which “the people of Hong Kong administer Hong Kong” with a high degree of autonomy; working in strict accordance with the Basic Law; as well as fully supporting the administration of the Chief Executive and the Hong Kong SAR Government in accordance with the law to maintain Hong Kong’s long-term prosperity and stability.

    During Mr Wu’s tenure as NPC Standing Committee Chairman, the committee deliberated and unanimously passed the “Decision of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress on Issues Relating to the Methods for Selecting the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region & for Forming the Legislative Council of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region in the Year 2012 & on Issues Relating to Universal Suffrage”.

    Mr Lee said: “On behalf of the Hong Kong SAR, I extend my deepest condolences to Mr Wu’s family.”

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Covehead — Impaired driver blows 3.5 the legal limit.

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    October 9, 2024, Covehead PEI – On October 6, at 18:15 RCMP responded to multiple complaints of an impaired driver in Covehead. A 31year-old- man was arrested and blew 3.5 times the legal limit.

    On October 6, at 18:15 RCMP in Queens District received a report of an erratic driver, and later another report of a crashed vehicle. Police arrested the driver for impaired driving by alcohol, the driver went on to provide breath samples of 280 mg of alcohol per 100 ml of blood which is 3.5 times the legal limit. The driver will appear in court at a later date.

    “If you see a suspected impaired driver call 911, you can make a difference for the safety of everyone,” Said Cpl Gavin Moore, Media relations officer for the Prince Edward Island RCMP.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister announces new Ministerial Lead for Jasper

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    Following last summer’s unprecedented wildfires that devastated the historic town of Jasper, the community is rebuilding. Businesses are getting back on their feet. Visitors are returning. Jasper is resilient.

    Amid the fires, we worked closely with the Municipality of Jasper and the Government of Alberta to provide urgent support to Albertans and impacted Indigenous communities. As we look ahead, we remain committed to ensuring the long-term recovery of Jasper – one of Canada’s national treasures.

    As part of the federal government’s commitment to the people of Jasper, the Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced that Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages, will also serve as Ministerial Lead for Jasper.

    In this role, Minister Boissonnault will lead the federal government’s work to support people and businesses in Jasper and to ensure the community rebuilds stronger than ever. He will co-ordinate federal support with provincial, municipal, and Indigenous partners to accelerate the recovery process, report on its progress, and ensure environmental protection measures remain world class. He will be supported in this role by a working group of Cabinet ministers – each with their own mandate in helping Jasper recover.

    Rebuilding from last summer’s wildfires will require a collective effort. The Government of Canada stands ready to provide financial assistance to the Government of Alberta through the Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements (DFAA), to help with response and recovery costs and build back stronger.

    A home to Indigenous Peoples since time immemorial and a place of natural beauty that has long attracted visitors from all over the world, Jasper is the heart of a vibrant community and national park. Our efforts to restore it are a testament to our commitment to Albertans and to conservation and environmental stewardship for future generations.

    Quotes

    “Our government is here for the people of Jasper. With Minister Boissonnault’s role as Ministerial Lead, we’re undertaking a collective effort – with resources, investments, and partnerships – to help Jasper recover.”

    “As the Alberta Minister in Cabinet and a longtime Jasper visitor, I accept the responsibility that the Prime Minister has given me to lead the rebuild of one of our nation’s most breathtaking communities. Jasper holds a special place in the hearts of millions. My colleagues and I will work hard to give Mayor Ireland, the Town Council, local businesses, and every Jasperite the support they need to build the town back on their terms – and even better than before.”

    Quick Facts

    • Last summer’s wildfires in Jasper National Park were the largest to impact the park in more than a century. Firefighter crews did a heroic job in saving 70 per cent of the infrastructure in the town of Jasper. Recovery and rebuilding efforts are focused on revitalizing both the town and park.
    • Over the course of the incident, over 3,000 personnel from Parks Canada and other agencies across the country worked with the common goals of suppressing the wildfires and helping community members re-enter the town and national park.
    • The working group of Cabinet ministers that will support Minister Boissonnault in his role as Ministerial Lead includes:
      • Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change
      • Harjit S. Sajjan, President of the King’s Privy Council for Canada and Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada
      • Dan Vandal, Minister of Northern Affairs, Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada and Minister responsible for the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency
      • Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
      • Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities
      • Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario
    • On July 25, 2024, the Government of Canada approved a request for federal assistance from Alberta to provide firefighting resources, strategic airlift capacity, as well as resources and logistics support from the Canadian Armed Forces to help keep people in Jasper and across the province safe from harm and protect their communities from wildfires.
    • On July 28, 2024, the federal government announced a donation-matching program with the Canadian Red Cross to support wildfire disaster relief and recovery efforts in Alberta, including in Jasper.
    • In the immediate aftermath of the fire, the Government of Canada stepped up to ensure all those impacted could receive essential services and benefits. This included:
      • Providing enhanced Service Canada delivery, outreach to evacuees, and deployment of Service Canada employees to evacuation centres to assist clients in submitting applications for benefits, such as Employment Insurance.
      • Replacing citizenship, immigration, or travel documents that were lost, damaged, or destroyed; extending or restoring people’s temporary resident status; transitioning employer-specific work permits to open work permits, as needed.
    • On October 3, 2024, Bill C-76, An Act to amend the Canada National Parks Act, received Royal Assent. The amendments made to the Act aim to enable the transfer of land use planning and development authorities from Parks Canada to the Municipality of Jasper, to support long-term recovery and rebuilding efforts.
    • Through the Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements (DFAA), the federal government covers up to 90 per cent of eligible provincial response and recovery expenses following a disaster, including:
      • Evacuation, transportation, emergency food, shelter, and clothing.
      • Repairs to public buildings and related equipment, roads, and bridges.
      • Restoration or replacement of individuals’ uninsurable dwellings (principal residences only), personal furnishings, appliances, and clothing.
      • Restoration of small businesses and farmsteads, including uninsurable buildings and equipment.

    Associated Links

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Tourism gets a boost in Colchester and Cumberland Counties

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Truro, Nova Scotia · October 9, 2024 · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

    The Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA, will announce funding toward four projects for strategic tourism growth in Nova Scotia.

    Date: October 10, 2024

    Time: 11:30 a.m                

    Location:

    Truro Civic Square
    740 Prince Street
    Truro, Nova Scotia
    B2N 1G9

    Connor Burton
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
    Connor.Burton@acoa-apeca.gc.ca

    Lauren Sinclair
    Director, Communications and Outreach
    Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
    Lauren.Sinclair@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
    782-641-6365

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Launch of the External Expert Review of the Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Statement

    The Public Health Agency of Canada announces the launch of the External Expert Review of the Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care.

    October 9, 2024 | Ottawa, Ontario | Public Health Agency of Canada

    Canada recognizes the importance of staying at the forefront of preventive health care guidance development. To ensure preventive health care guidelines meet the needs of Canada’s health care system and support the overall well-being of people living in Canada, the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) has established an External Expert Review (EER) Panel to study the Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care’s (Task Force) governance, mandate, and scientific review processes.

    The Task Force, originally created in 1976 and re-established in 2009, is an independent, arms-length body of clinicians and methodologists with experience in primary care, public health, preventive medicine and guideline methodology. It has developed numerous national guidelines to support primary care providers, such as family physicians and nurse practitioners, in delivering preventive health care.

    The EER Panel, composed of 13 experts from various fields across the health sector, will review domestic and international approaches and best practices for the development of preventive health care guidelines, and engage domestic and international experts and stakeholders, to inform recommendations related to the Task Force. This external review process builds on the 2022 Evaluation of the Task Force by PHAC. Following the review, a report will be submitted by the Spring of 2025 to PHAC for consideration.

    For more information, please visit the Task Force or EER Panel web page.

    Contact

    Media Relations
    Public Health Agency of Canada
    613-957-2983
    media@hc-sc.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Harnessing Renewables in Sub-Saharan Africa: Barriers, Reforms, and Economic Prospects

    Source: International Monetary Fund

    Kailhao Cai, Andrea Medici, Giovanni Melina, Gregor Schwerhoff, and Sneha D Thube. “Harnessing Renewables in Sub-Saharan Africa: Barriers, Reforms, and Economic Prospects”, Staff Climate Notes 2024, 005 (2024), accessed October 9, 2024, https://doi.org/10.5089/9798400290107.066

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Secretary-General of ASEAN meets with Vice President for East Asia and the Pacific of the World Bank

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, met with the Vice President for East Asia and the Pacific of the World Bank, Ms. Manuela V. Ferro, at the sidelines of the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits and Related Summits in Vientiane, Lao PDR. The meeting discussed ways to support renewable energy in the region, particularly to support the ASEAN power grid, scale-up renewable energy, and foster cross border electricity trade among the ASEAN Member States.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN meets with Vice President for East Asia and the Pacific of the World Bank appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: ‘Access to Food is a Human Right’: New Professor Focused on Childhood Food Insecurity

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Alexandria Forté’s professional story starts with her in a kitchen – blending, baking, and browning dishes both savory and sweet for customers to enjoy.

    In a job as a chef after finishing her undergraduate degree, she says she once thought that’s how she could be of service to others – stirring, slicing, sauteing for a community that wanted to be fed.

    “But it’s backbreaking work, very physically demanding, and I started to miss academic work,” she says. “Around this time, I also was doing some volunteer work and when I realized the person running that program had an MSW, I knew that was the direction I wanted to go.”

    Alexandria Forté, assistant professor in the UConn School of Social Work (Contributed photo)

    Fast-forward through time at the University of Denver for her Master of Social Work and University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill for her Ph.D., Forté is one of the newest faculty members at the UConn School of Social Work.

    And she hasn’t left food behind.

    While getting her MSW, she worked with youth who were living in subsidized housing and developed a curriculum around healthy eating. Then, she pivoted to work in a hospital, where she noted that many of her clients were impacted by food insecurity.

    “That’s when I started to ask why more social workers weren’t talking about this. Why isn’t social work at the table when it comes to food insecurity? Often, public health leads this conversation or other disciplines, but I wanted to be at the table on behalf of social work,” she says.

    Forté, an assistant professor, says she’s always thinking about how she can work food into her classroom discussions.

    “As an example, I’m teaching theory, and this week we’re going to be learning about feminism and queer theory,” she explains. “Food preparation is often seen as women’s work and with feminism, there was a desire for some women to leave the kitchen and pursue work outside of the home. In other sections, we’ve discussed how disparities in access to food can be due to systemic inequities. Using food access and how different identities engage with food makes these heady theories feel more tangible.”

    When it comes to her research, Forté is focused on the impact food insecurity has on one’s mental health, specifically for young people in middle and high school, and how that impact can be measured accurately.

    Children as young as 9 understand what food insecurity is and know whether they’re affected, she says, yet there hasn’t been much research exploring their experience. Most often, the head of the household is the one surveyed, even though teenagers oftentimes bear the burden too.

    “Children experience it differently,” she says. “They’re also trying to figure out how to bring food into the home, but from a different perspective, ‘Can I bring this pizza home from a club meeting, so my family can eat tonight?’ They may not be buying groceries, but they’re trying to get food into the home.”

    Many teenagers are charged with the care of siblings, especially if adults are working multiple jobs, she notes, and even though they’re not recognized as the head of the household, at times they serve in that capacity, having to figure out what to make for dinner, maybe even going hungry themselves when food is scarce.

    “We need to capture what they’re going through because it is different from adults,” Forté says. “Knowing what adults experience is important, but this 9- to about 17-year-old age range, when they’re in school, that’s what I’m interested in. If we can understand their experiences – what does it feel like to know you don’t have food in the home – we can be better at supporting their health and well-being.”

    And that may mean having a discussion about policy, another area in which she’s interested.

    UConn’s Husky Harvest initiative, which established food pantries on all campuses, and its Rudd Center for Food Policy and Health are two reasons Forté says she sought to come to Connecticut for work.

    “Those were a huge draw for me,” she says. “They demonstrate that this university sees how important it is for people to get access to food and, in policy, that’s where we’re going to see a lot of change. I believe that access to food is a human right.”

    Forté says that when she was in practice, she spent a fair amount of time connecting people with resources, sourcing the locations of pantries, food banks, and community refrigerators. Sometimes she’d go along with clients to teach them what they could do with a can of tomatoes, bag of beans, and box of rice.

    She’d teach them to salvage the seasoning packet from a package of ramen noodles to spice up the blandness of another dish.

    “The experience of poverty is not fun, but if you can take even just a moment and create a little bit of joy in cooking, it can become time when you experience a little pleasure in life,” she says.

    Read more about Forté and her research here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Banking: IMF Staff and Tajikistan Authorities Reach Staff-Level Agreement on the First Review of the Policy Coordination Instrument (PCI)

    Source: International Monetary Fund

    October 9, 2024

    End-of-Mission press releases include statements of IMF staff teams that convey preliminary findings after a visit to a country. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF’s Executive Board for discussion and decision.

    • IMF staff and the Tajikistan authorities have reached a staff-level agreement on the first review under the Policy Coordination Instrument (PCI). The PCI aims to maintain macroeconomic stability, strengthen the authorities’ policy frameworks, and support their efforts to foster more sustainable and inclusive growth.
    • Macroeconomic performance remains favorable with real GDP growth at 8.3 percent during January-August 2024, and twelve-month inflation slowing to 3.6 percent in August. The current account remained in surplus in the first half of 2024, with international reserves at comfortable levels.
    • Policy priorities are to enhance revenue mobilization, rationalize tax exemptions, modernize FX and public debt markets, enhance banking supervision and macroprudential oversight, and improve governance and transparency of SOEs and other entities to strengthen the favorable business climate.

    Dushanbe, Tajikistan: An International Monetary Fund (IMF) team led by Mr. Matthew Gaertner held discussions with the Tajikistan authorities during September 23-October 4, 2024, for the first review of the Policy Coordination Instrument (PCI) [[1]].

    At the conclusion of the mission, Mr. Gaertner issued the following statement:

    “The IMF mission held productive discussions with the Tajikistan authorities and reached staff-level agreement on the policies needed to complete the first review under the PCI. The successful completion of the review is subject to approval by IMF management and the IMF Executive Board. Consideration by the Board is expected in November 2024.

    “Real GDP continued to grow at 8.3 percent during January-August 2024, supported by strong growth in services and construction. Inflation declined to 3.6 percent in August from 3.8 in December, remaining below the lower bound of the National Bank of Tajikistan’s target range. The current account remained in surplus during the first half of 2024 with strong financial inflows supporting comfortable levels of FX reserves. The authorities recorded a fiscal deficit well below the program’s target in the first half of the year, anchoring a continued reduction in public debt. The banking system is stable, with robust growth in deposits and credit. Strong GDP growth and low inflation are expected to continue in 2025 but geopolitical and climate risks create uncertainty over the medium-term outlook.

    “Program implementation has remained on track, with most of the quantitative targets for end-June 2024 being met and all reform targets being observed. The quantitative targets on net international reserves and the fiscal deficit were met comfortably. Improvements in revenue mobilization and debt management remain central to program objectives. Fiscal reforms have focused on quantifying losses from inefficient tax exemptions and implementing a Medium-Term Revenue Plan aiming to increase fiscal space for priority social and development spending. In line with the updated Debt Management Strategy, the Ministry of Finance (MOF) has started issuing government securities at market-based rates to diversify financing sources.

    “Under the PCI, the authorities have improved monitoring of fiscal risks from state-owned enterprises (SOE), bringing all companies with state ownership of at least 20 percent under the monitoring of the MOF. Monetary and exchange rate policy reforms have centered on improving the functioning of the FX market by rationalizing the system supporting remittances and money transfers through the banking system and improving the mechanism for executing government FX transactions to better reflect prevailing market rates.

    “Looking ahead, the authorities will aim to continue to rationalize tax exemptions and tax administration, modernize FX and public debt markets, improve banking supervision and macroprudential oversight, and enhance governance and transparency of SOEs and other public and private entities to support a favorable business climate and foster more sustainable and inclusive growth. Enhanced exchange rate flexibility is essential to strengthen resilience to shocks and support the transition to an interest-rate based framework. The authorities have proposed to expand the fiscal reform agenda through new measures aiming to develop a plan to streamline tax exemptions and including all companies with a minimum of 20 percent state ownership in the 2024 Statement of Fiscal Risks.

    “The IMF team would like to thank the authorities for their excellent cooperation and constructive discussions.”

    [[1]] The IMF’s Policy Coordination Instrument (PCI) is designed for countries that do not need balance of payments financial support. The PCI helps countries design effective economic programs that, once approved by the IMF’s Executive Board, signal to donors, multilateral development banks, and markets the Fund’s endorsement of a member’s policies.

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Angham Al Shami

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    @IMFSpokesperson

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: SEC Monitoring Impact of Hurricane Milton on Capital Markets

    Source: Securities and Exchange Commission

    The Securities and Exchange Commission is closely monitoring the impact of Hurricane Milton on investors and capital markets. The SEC also continues to monitor the prior impact of Hurricane Helene.

    The SEC divisions and offices that oversee companies, accountants, investment advisers, mutual funds, brokerage firms, transfer agents, and other regulated entities and investment professionals will continue to closely track developments. They will evaluate the possibility of granting relief from filing deadlines and other regulatory requirements for those affected by the storms. Entities and investment professionals affected by Hurricane Milton or Hurricane Helene are encouraged to contact SEC staff with questions and concerns:

    • Division of Examinations staff in the SEC’s Miami Regional Office can be reached by phone at 305-982-6300 or email at miami@sec.gov
    • Division of Examinations staff in the SEC’s Atlanta Regional Office can be reached by phone at 404-842-7600 or email at atlanta@sec.gov
    • Division of Corporation Finance staff can be reached by phone at 202-551-3500 or via online submission at http://www.sec.gov/forms/corp_fin_interpretive
    • Division of Investment Management staff can be reached by phone at 202-551-6825 or email at imocc@sec.gov
    • Division of Trading and Markets staff can be reached by phone at 202-551-5777 or email at tradingandmarkets@sec.gov
    • Office of Municipal Securities staff can be reached by phone at 202-551-5680 or email at munis@sec.gov

    Individuals experiencing problems accessing their securities accounts or with similar questions or concerns relating to either hurricane are encouraged to contact the SEC’s Office of Investor Education and Advocacy by phone at 1-800-SEC-0330 or email at help@sec.gov.

    Investors should be vigilant for Hurricane Milton-related and Hurricane Helene-related securities scams and check the background of anyone offering them an investment by using the free and simple search tool on Investor.gov. The SEC’s Division of Enforcement will vigorously prosecute those who attempt to defraud victims of the storms. The SEC is asking investors to report any suspicious solicitations at http://www.sec.gov/complaint/tipscomplaint.shtml.

    More information about the SEC’s monitoring of the impact of Hurricane Helene can be found here.

    FOR HURRICANE MILTON:

    What DHS and FEMA are doing

    https://www.fema.gov/disaster/current/hurricane-milton

    Español: https://www.fema.gov/es/disaster/current/hurricane-milton

    What the U.S. government is doing

    https://www.usa.gov/hurricane-milton

    Español: https://www.usa.gov/es/huracan-milton

    FOR HURRICANE HELENE:

    What DHS and FEMA are doing

    https://www.fema.gov/hurricane-helene

    Español: https://www.fema.gov/es/helene

    What the U.S. government is doing

    https://usa.gov/hurricane-helene

    Español: https://usa.gov/es/huracan-helene

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Patrushev held a meeting with the Governor of Omsk Region Vitaly Khotsenko

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Dmitry Patrushev held a meeting with the Governor of Omsk Region Vitaly Khotsenko

    October 9, 2024

    Governor of Omsk region Vitaly Khotsenko

    October 9, 2024

    Previous news Next news

    Dmitry Patrushev held a meeting with the Governor of Omsk Region Vitaly Khotsenko

    Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Patrushev held a working meeting with Omsk Region Governor Vitaly Khotsenko. The parties discussed the creation of solid municipal waste handling facilities in three districts of the region.

    As noted, within the framework of the federal project “Integrated System for Handling Municipal Solid Waste” in Omsk Oblast, it is planned to build integrated facilities for handling municipal solid waste in the territory of three districts. Concession agreements have already been concluded for two of them with the involvement of investors’ funds.

    Construction of solid municipal waste management facilities can also be implemented using infrastructure bonds issued by PPK “REO”. The Deputy Prime Minister noted that the Ministry of Natural Resources of Russia, together with PPK “REO”, will work out this issue with the region.

    The parties also paid attention to the issue of purchasing buses that use compressed natural gas within the framework of the national project “Environmental Well-being”.

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

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

    http://government.ru/nevs/52947/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Staff and Tajikistan Authorities Reach Staff-Level Agreement on the First Review of the Policy Coordination Instrument (PCI)

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    October 9, 2024

    End-of-Mission press releases include statements of IMF staff teams that convey preliminary findings after a visit to a country. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF’s Executive Board for discussion and decision.

    • IMF staff and the Tajikistan authorities have reached a staff-level agreement on the first review under the Policy Coordination Instrument (PCI). The PCI aims to maintain macroeconomic stability, strengthen the authorities’ policy frameworks, and support their efforts to foster more sustainable and inclusive growth.
    • Macroeconomic performance remains favorable with real GDP growth at 8.3 percent during January-August 2024, and twelve-month inflation slowing to 3.6 percent in August. The current account remained in surplus in the first half of 2024, with international reserves at comfortable levels.
    • Policy priorities are to enhance revenue mobilization, rationalize tax exemptions, modernize FX and public debt markets, enhance banking supervision and macroprudential oversight, and improve governance and transparency of SOEs and other entities to strengthen the favorable business climate.

    Dushanbe, Tajikistan: An International Monetary Fund (IMF) team led by Mr. Matthew Gaertner held discussions with the Tajikistan authorities during September 23-October 4, 2024, for the first review of the Policy Coordination Instrument (PCI) [[1]].

    At the conclusion of the mission, Mr. Gaertner issued the following statement:

    “The IMF mission held productive discussions with the Tajikistan authorities and reached staff-level agreement on the policies needed to complete the first review under the PCI. The successful completion of the review is subject to approval by IMF management and the IMF Executive Board. Consideration by the Board is expected in November 2024.

    “Real GDP continued to grow at 8.3 percent during January-August 2024, supported by strong growth in services and construction. Inflation declined to 3.6 percent in August from 3.8 in December, remaining below the lower bound of the National Bank of Tajikistan’s target range. The current account remained in surplus during the first half of 2024 with strong financial inflows supporting comfortable levels of FX reserves. The authorities recorded a fiscal deficit well below the program’s target in the first half of the year, anchoring a continued reduction in public debt. The banking system is stable, with robust growth in deposits and credit. Strong GDP growth and low inflation are expected to continue in 2025 but geopolitical and climate risks create uncertainty over the medium-term outlook.

    “Program implementation has remained on track, with most of the quantitative targets for end-June 2024 being met and all reform targets being observed. The quantitative targets on net international reserves and the fiscal deficit were met comfortably. Improvements in revenue mobilization and debt management remain central to program objectives. Fiscal reforms have focused on quantifying losses from inefficient tax exemptions and implementing a Medium-Term Revenue Plan aiming to increase fiscal space for priority social and development spending. In line with the updated Debt Management Strategy, the Ministry of Finance (MOF) has started issuing government securities at market-based rates to diversify financing sources.

    “Under the PCI, the authorities have improved monitoring of fiscal risks from state-owned enterprises (SOE), bringing all companies with state ownership of at least 20 percent under the monitoring of the MOF. Monetary and exchange rate policy reforms have centered on improving the functioning of the FX market by rationalizing the system supporting remittances and money transfers through the banking system and improving the mechanism for executing government FX transactions to better reflect prevailing market rates.

    “Looking ahead, the authorities will aim to continue to rationalize tax exemptions and tax administration, modernize FX and public debt markets, improve banking supervision and macroprudential oversight, and enhance governance and transparency of SOEs and other public and private entities to support a favorable business climate and foster more sustainable and inclusive growth. Enhanced exchange rate flexibility is essential to strengthen resilience to shocks and support the transition to an interest-rate based framework. The authorities have proposed to expand the fiscal reform agenda through new measures aiming to develop a plan to streamline tax exemptions and including all companies with a minimum of 20 percent state ownership in the 2024 Statement of Fiscal Risks.

    “The IMF team would like to thank the authorities for their excellent cooperation and constructive discussions.”

    [[1]] The IMF’s Policy Coordination Instrument (PCI) is designed for countries that do not need balance of payments financial support. The PCI helps countries design effective economic programs that, once approved by the IMF’s Executive Board, signal to donors, multilateral development banks, and markets the Fund’s endorsement of a member’s policies.

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Angham Al Shami

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    @IMFSpokesperson

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2024/10/09/pr-24361-tajikistan-imf-and-authorities-reach-agreement-on-1st-rev-of-pci

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Professionals & Students Gather in Mexico City for First IADC Latin America Regional Forum

    Source: International Association of Drilling Contractors – IADC

    Headline: Professionals & Students Gather in Mexico City for First IADC Latin America Regional Forum

    On 25 September, IADC headquarters and the IADC Latin America Chapter hosted the first-ever IADC Latin America Regional Forum in Mexico City. The event drew 160+ attendees, including 25 students. We were pleased to sponsor students from the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Universidad Juárez Autónoma de Tabasco (UJAT), and Universidad Olmeca to attend the forum.

    With its top panels and speakers, this forum explored specific issues affecting this sector. Regional operations have their own unique requirements, and IADC’s Latin America Regional Forum explored those opportunities and challenges. 

    PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS: 

    • Mexico’s Unlocked Potential 
    • Contractor Panel
    • Oil & Gas Industry Key Mexican Tax Considerations
    • Enhancing Red Zone Safety in the Drilling Industry
    • Education & Retention: How PAE has Fostered a Culture of Learning and Growth in Well Control & Well Integrity
    • Valaris Basic Training Rig Initiative
    • Cultivating Excellence: Strategies for Building a Culture of Continuous Learning & Innovation in Oil & Gas Companies
    • The Positive Effects of a Bottom-up Approach to Safety
    • Keynote Presentation: The Trion Project, First Deepwater Development in Mexico
    • Latin America Drilling Forecast: Well Mix & Potential Risks
    • Key Technologies to Maximize Performance & Minimize Risks in Integrated Services Drilling Projects
    • From Enabling to Optimizing with Controlled Mud Level MPD
    • Operator Panel

    Thank you to everyone who contributed to the success of this inaugural event! 

    MIL OSI Economics –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: St. Petersburg Gas Forum 2024: Polytech Showcases Cutting-Edge Developments

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    From October 8 to 11, the St. Petersburg International Gas Forum 2024 is being held in the Expoforum Convention and Exhibition Centre in St. Petersburg. Russia’s leading technical university and the flagship university of PJSC Gazprom, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, traditionally participates in the exhibition and scientific-business programme of the forum. This year, SPbPU and the St. Petersburg Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences presented a joint stand.

    The St. Petersburg International Gas Forum can be called a unique event without exaggeration, because it is not only an exhibition of achievements in the gas industry, but also provides opportunities for a meaningful dialogue between business, government and science. This is necessary to ensure the technological independence of the Russian energy industry, – noted the rector of SPbPU, chairman of the St. Petersburg branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences Andrey Rudskoy.

    Among the innovative developments that forum guests can see at the Polytechnic stand is the installation of selective laser melting with high-temperature heating of the working area “Mercury”, which solves the problems of import preemption in the economy of our country. This is an innovative project, which has no analogues in Russia. The new equipment was created in cooperation with an industrial partner – the company 3DLAM. Thanks to additive metal printing technologies, which Polytechnic is now actively engaged in, it has become possible to manufacture products of the most complex shapes from difficult-to-process alloys. The resulting samples are highly durable and reliable.

    The unit is capable of heating the working area to 1300 degrees for printing new-generation heat-resistant alloys. Joint repair of T32 engine components — the Ladoga gas pumping unit — is currently being discussed.

    In our partnership, we act as an equipment manufacturer, and Polytech acts as a technology center that develops the technology itself, works out modes and prepares technical specifications, according to which we create innovative installations, noted Nikolai Drobchenko, head of the 3DLAM additive technology department.

    Specialists from the research laboratory “Laser and Additive Technologies” of the Institute of Metallurgy and Metallurgy of the St. Petersburg Polytechnic University also demonstrate the mobile laser cladding complex “Nomad” and components of gas turbine engines restored using the laser cladding method.

    “Here, there is a synergy of combining scientific research, technological and production experience,” said Mikhail Kuznetsov, head of the Laser and Additive Technologies Research Laboratory. “And all of this is combined into a new development. In this case, it is a layer-by-layer growth complex with high-temperature heating.”

    Also at the Polytechnic stand, you can get acquainted with the work of virtual demonstration complexes based on VR technologies to study the main actions during maintenance and operation of compressor equipment used at underground gas storage facilities.

    Traditionally, the SPbPU History Museum takes part in the exhibition. Its employees tell visitors to the stand about the Polytechnic gas plant, which produced lighting gas for laboratories.

    SPbPU and SPbB RAS stand: L2, Pavilion G.

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

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

    http://www.spbstu.ru/media/nevs/partnership/St. Petersburg-gas-forum-2024-polytech-demonstrates-advanced-developments/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Restoration of Gagarin monument on Leninsky Prospekt completed — Moscow Mayor

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The restoration of the monument to Yuri Gagarin on Leninsky Prospekt has been completed in the capital. Sergei Sobyanin reported this in his telegram channel.

    This monument is the world’s first large-scale monument made of titanium. Its height is 42.5 meters.

    “It is located on the square of the same name and is its dominant feature. The installation site was not chosen by chance – it was along Leninsky Prospekt that Yuri Gagarin made his historic flight on April 14, 1961, heading from Vnukovo Airport to the Kremlin,” the Moscow Mayor wrote.

    Source: Sergei Sobyanin’s Telegram channel @mos_sobyanin 

    Over the years, numerous damages appeared on the monument. Specialists put the monument in order. They removed dirt and paint stains from the stylobate, replaced the destroyed facing blocks and slabs, and treated the stones with wax. The monument itself was also cleaned of dirt, corrosion, and all the titanium plates were washed. The work was carried out not only on the outside, but also on the inside – in a space with a diameter of one meter.

    At the final stage, a restored model of the Vostok spacecraft’s descent module was installed on the stylobate.

    “Now the transformed monument to the cosmonaut who opened the way to the stars for humanity will once again delight Muscovites and guests of the city with its beauty and grandeur,” noted Sergei Sobyanin.

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

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

    https://vvv.mos.ru/major/themes/11876050/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN meets with the President of the AIIB

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, met with President of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), H.E. Jin Liqun, on the sidelines of the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits and Related Summits in Vientiane, Lao PDR today. SG Dr. Kao commended the AIIB’s efforts in advancing connectivity and infrastructure development and looked forward to having deeper cooperation between ASEAN and AIIB in enhancing connectivity in the region.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN meets with the President of the AIIB appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scunthorpe angler pays for fishing in close season 

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The Environment Agency has successfully prosecuted an angler from Scunthorpe for fishing during the close season.

    A fisheries enforcement officer on patrol

    • Angler caught breaking close season regulations
    • Case brought by Environment Agency’s fisheries enforcement team
    • Close season in place to help protect fishing stocks

    Lulian Constantinescu, 34, of Mulgrave Street, Scunthorpe, Lincolnshire, admitted the charge at Humber Magistrates Court in a case heard on 18 September 2024.

    He was ordered to pay a total of £307 after admitting that he fished in the close season at South Soak Drain near Wiseman Bridge, Scunthorpe, on 19 March 2024.

    The court imposed penalties of a £123 fine, £135 costs and a victim’s surcharge of £49.

    Close season

    The annual close season (from 15 March – 15 June) prevents fishing for coarse fish in rivers and streams across England, helping to protect fish when they are spawning and supporting vulnerable stocks. Environment Agency officers conduct patrols to ensure anglers respect this no fishing period.

    A spokesperson for the Environment Agency said:

    “The close season is in place to reduce disturbances to protect vulnerable stocks during their peak spawning period.

    “We urge anglers to respect the close season in order to help reduce pressures on our fisheries, benefitting fish and the wider environment.

    “We hope the penalties will act as a deterrent to any angler who is thinking of fishing during the close season.

    “Our fisheries enforcement team work seven days a week to check that anglers are following fishing regulations.”

    Fisheries enforcement

    The Environment Agency carries out enforcement work all year round and is supported by partners including the police and the Angling Trust.

    Fisheries enforcement work is intelligence-led, targeting known hot-spots and where illegal fishing is reported.  

    Anyone with information about illegal fishing activities can contact the Environment Agency Incident Hotline 24/7 on 0800 80 70 60 or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

    Fishing licences

    All income from fishing licence sales is used to fund our work to protect and improve fish stocks, fisheries and the environment.

    This includes improving habitats for fish, reinvesting money back to facilities and clubs for anglers, tackling illegal fishing and working with partners to encourage more people to give fishing a go.

    Any angler aged 13 or over, fishing on a river, canal or still water needs a licence.  

    A 1-day licence costs from just £7.10 and an annual licence costs from just £35.80. Concessions are available. Junior licences are free for 13 to 16-year-olds. 

    Licences are available from http://www.gov.uk/get-a-fishing-licence or by calling the Environment Agency on 0344 800 5386 between 8am and 6pm, Monday to Friday. 

    The Charge – Lulian Constantinescu

    On 19 March 2024 at South Soak Drain near Wiseman Bridge, Scunthorpe, fished for freshwater fish in the close season.

    This is contrary to National Byelaw 2 of the Environment Agency Byelaws made on 12 July 2010 and contrary to National Byelaw 6 confirmed March 23 2010 made pursuant to sections 210 and 211 Schedule 25 of the Water Resources Act 1991.

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    Updates to this page

    Published 9 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    January 23, 2025
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