Category: Environment

MIL-OSI Africa: World Health Organization (WHO) commits to enhancing Nigeria’s capacity to tackle influenza threat

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

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Following an alert of a highly pathogenic avian Influenza (H5N1) outbreak in poultry, commonly known as bird flu, in Kano state, the World Health Organization ( WHO) has stepped up its support to the Government of Nigeria to prevent transmission of the virus to humans. While the virus spreads rapidly among birds, it also has the potential to infect mammals, including humans. It poses a significant threat to both animal and public health.

Overview of the outbreak

The virus primarily affects poultry but can also infect humans who come in direct contact with the infected live or dead birds or contaminated environments, such as saliva, nasal discharges, and faeces, which contain high toxins.

Preventive measures against bird flu include biosecurity measures in poultry farms and live bird markets, avoiding contact with sick birds, proper hygiene, surveillance, and early reporting of outbreaks. Other states aside, Kano has reported cases of bird flu among poultry.

At the time of writing this report, there has been no human infection from the disease.

WHO collaborative support to the outbreak

To prevent transmission to humans, WHO team in Kano state leverage the State One Health Technical Working Group (TWG) and Influenza TWG to coordinate an interagency response to the situation.

The One Health and Influenza TWGs comprises inter-agency members, including the Ministries of Health, Veterinary/ Agriculture, and Environment.

The World Health Organization (WHO), in collaboration with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), has supported the establishment of 10 National Influenza Sentinel Surveillance (NISS) sites, including Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH) and nine other hospitals across Nigeria’s six Geopolitical zones. In 2024, 814 samples were collected from these sites and transported to the National Reference Laboratory in Abuja for respiratory virus testing, in line with the Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS).

“To help with the response in Kano State, WHO provided over 100 PPE kits. These kits included 1,000 gloves, 500 aprons, 500 face shields, 20 rain boots, and other items. These kits protect healthcare workers and other personnel on the field from exposure to the virus, ensuring their safety while they manage and contain the outbreak.

WHO also supplied laboratory materials for collecting samples from people showing symptoms of flu-like illnesses or severe respiratory infections,” explained Dr Mayana Abubakar, WHO Kano State Coordinator.

Dr Mayana mentioned that in 2024, WHO helped train over 100 health workers from the NISS sites on preparing for and responding to pandemic influenza. This training aimed to improve surveillance, response, and close monitoring of human contacts for early intervention.

Dr Ibrahim Aliyu Gano, Director of Public Health and Disease Control, Kano State Ministry of Health, applauding WHO’s support, said, “ We appreciate WHO’s steadfast support in helping us tackle this outbreak. Their donation and timely intervention help protect lives and contain the transmission of the disease.

As of 25 January 2025, Kano, Nigeria, reported six confirmed HPAI cases and 4,470 suspected cases of bird flu. So far, there has been no human infection from 15 specimens tested from 20 suspected cases while awaiting the result of five samples.

The WHO Country Representative, Dr Walter Kazadi Mulombo, has assured that with the existing national capacity, which has been built over the period and from the previous bird flu emergencies experience, “we could swiftly scale up the efforts. WHO is committed to working with Nigerian authorities and partners to ensure that measures are in place for effective and rapid actions to mitigate transmission to humans”, he added.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO) – Nigeria.

MIL OSI Africa –

February 25, 2025

MIL-OSI: Gran Tierra Energy Inc. Announces 2024 Fourth Quarter & Year-End Results

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Record Fourth Quarter Production of 41,009 BOEPD
Realized 2024 Net Income of $3 Million ($0.10 per Share, Basic) and 2024 Adjusted EBITDA¹of $367 Million
Delivered Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities of $239.3 million, up 5% from 2023
Generated 2024 Funds Flow from Operations¹of $225 Million and Achieved 2024 Average Working Interest Production of 34,710 BOEPD, up 6% from 2023
Sixth Consecutive Year of 1P Total Company Reserves Growth
Highest Year-End Total Company Reserves in Company History – 167 MMBOE 1P, 293 MMBOE 2P and 385 MMBOE 3P and Achieved 702% 1P, 1,249% 2P and 1,500% 3P Reserves Replacement
Net Asset Value per Share³of $35.22 Before Tax and $19.51 After Tax (1P), and $71.14 Before Tax and $41.03 After Tax (2P)
Achieved Company’s Best Safety Performance on Record in 2024

CALGARY, Alberta, Feb. 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gran Tierra Energy Inc. (“Gran Tierra” or the “Company”) (NYSE American:GTE) (TSX:GTE) (LSE:GTE) today announced the Company’s financial and operating results for the fourth quarter (“the Quarter”) and year ended December 31, 2024.³ All dollar amounts are in United States (“U.S.”) dollars and all reserves and production volumes are on an average working interest before royalties (“WI”) basis unless otherwise indicated. Production is expressed in barrels of oil equivalent (“boe”) per day (“boepd”), and reserves are expressed in boe or million boe (“MMBOE”), unless otherwise indicated. Gran Tierra’s 2024 year-end reserves were evaluated by the Company’s independent qualified reserves evaluator McDaniel & Associates Consultants Ltd. (“McDaniel”) in a report with an effective date of December 31, 2024 (the “GTE McDaniel Reserves Report”). All reserves values, future net revenue and ancillary information contained in this press release have been prepared by McDaniel and calculated in compliance with Canadian National Instrument 51-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Oil and Gas Activities (“NI 51-101”) and the Canadian Oil and Gas Evaluation Handbook (“COGEH”) and derived from the GTE McDaniel Reserves Report, unless otherwise expressly stated. The following reserves categories are discussed in this press release: Proved Developed Producing (“PDP”), Proved (“1P”), 1P plus Probable (“2P”) and 2P plus Possible (“3P”).

FOURTH QUARTER AND FULL-YEAR 2024 OPERATIONAL AND FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

Message to Shareholders

Gary Guidry, President and Chief Executive Officer of Gran Tierra, commented: “2025 is set to be a transformational year for Gran Tierra as we advance exploration drilling in Ecuador, fulfilling all our commitments in the country while integrating our new entry into Canada. We ended 2024 at record highs across all reserve categories and production, setting a solid foundation for the future. While 2024 was dedicated to investing in resource capture, 2025 and beyond will be focused on execution—unlocking the full potential of our extensive, oil-weighted portfolio, which holds over 293 million BOE of 2P reserves. We are also pleased to confirm that Gran Tierra successfully met its average production guidance target for 2024. Furthermore, in 2024, Gran Tierra demonstrated its confidence in the Company’s future prospects by repurchasing 6.7% of our outstanding shares⁴ of common stock through our normal course issuer bid (“NCIB”) program, showing our dedication to long-term shareholder value creation. With a current before tax 1P net asset value of $35.23 per share, repurchases remain a strategic and efficient way to return capital to our shareholders, while reinforcing our commitment to long-term value creation.

We are excited about the prospects of our 2025 exploration initiatives in Ecuador and Colombia, where we are set to drill between 6 to 8 high-impact exploration wells in our base case. These prospects have the potential to be significant catalysts in our commitment to unlock new reserves and drive sustainable growth. On the development front, we look forward to further appraising our Ecuador discoveries, commencing development of the large Cohembi field, drilling wells in the Montney and appraisal wells in the Clearwater and Central Alberta. With a robust and diverse portfolio of assets, Gran Tierra is poised to capitalize on emerging opportunities and deliver value to all our stakeholders. As we continue to profitably advance our operational and financial goals, we remain deeply committed to the well-being of our employees and the communities where we operate, recognizing their essential role in our success.”

Operational:

Production:
- Gran Tierra achieved 2024 average WI production of 34,710 boepd, representing a 6% increase from 2023, as a result of positive exploration results in Ecuador and two months of production from Canadian operations acquired on October 31, 2024, partially offset by lower production in the Acordionero field caused by downtime related to workovers and deferred production from blockades in Suroriente during the Quarter.
- Building on the Company’s successful development drilling in 2024 and integrating its recently acquired Canadian assets, Gran Tierra expects 2025 production of 47,000-53,000 boepd, as previously forecast. This projected 2025 production increase is expected to result from the Company’s previously forecast 2025 development drilling program of 5-7 gross wells in Suroriente, 2-3 appraisal wells in Ecuador, as well as 6 development wells in Canada. Gran Tierra also plans to drill 6-8 exploration wells in South America in 2025.
2024 Year-End Reserves and Values^3,6:

Before Tax (as of December 31, 2024)	Units	1P	2P	3P
Reserves	MMBOE	167	293	385
Net Present Value at 10% Discount (“NPV10”)	$ million	1,950	3,242	4,517
Net Debt¹	$ million	(683)	(683)	(683)
Net Asset Value (NPV10 less Net Debt) (“NAV”)	$ million	1,267	2,559	3,834
Outstanding Shares	million	35.97	35.97	35.97
NAV per Share	$/share	35.23	71.14	106.62

After Tax (as of December 31, 2024)	Units	1P	2P	3P
Reserves	MMBOE	167	293	385
NPV10	$ million	1,385	2,159	2,930
Net Debt¹	$ million	(683)	(683)	(683)
NAV	$ million	702	1,476	2,247
Outstanding Shares	million	35.97	35.97	35.97
NAV per Share	$/share	19.51	41.03	62.46

As of December 31, 2024, Gran Tierra achieved⁶:
- Before Tax NAV of $1.3 billion (1P), $2.6 billion (2P), and $3.8 billion (3P)
- After Tax NAV of $0.7 billion (1P), $1.5 billion (2P), and $2.2 billion (3P)
- Strong reserves replacement ratios of:
  - 702% 1P, with 1P reserves additions of 89 MMBOE.
  - 1,249% 2P, with 2P reserves additions of 159 MMBOE.
  - 1,500% 3P, with 3P reserves additions of 191 MMBOE.
- NAV per share of $35.23 Before Tax and $19.51 After Tax (1P), and $71.14 Before Tax and $41.03 After Tax (2P). Gran Tierra’s current share price trades at significant discounts across all of the Company’s NAV per share categories.
- Finding, development and acquisition costs (“FD&A”), including change in future development costs (“FDC”), on a per boe basis of $9.74 (1P), $8.11 (2P) and $6.92 (3P).
- FD&A costs excluding change in FDC, on a per boe basis of $4.49 (1P), $2.52 (2P) and $2.10 (3P).
- Canada now represents 46% of 1P and 51% of 2P reserves compared to Gran Tierra’s total reserves.

Financial:

2024 Net Income: Gran Tierra realized a net income of $3.2 million or $0.10 per share (basic and diluted), compared to net loss of $6.3 million, or $(0.19) per share (basic and diluted) in 2023.
2024 Adjusted EBITDA¹: The Company realized Adjusted EBITDA¹ of $366.8 million, a decrease of 8% from $399.4 million in 2023, commensurate with the decrease in the Brent oil price.
2024 Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities: The Company generated net cash provided by operating activities of $239.3 million, an increase of 5% from $228.0 million in 2023.
2024 Funds Flow from Operations¹: Gran Tierra realized funds flow from operations¹ of $224.9 million, compared to $276.8 million in 2023.
2024 Capital Expenditures: Capital expenditures increased by $7.7 million or 3% to $234.2 million compared to 2023 due to a higher number of wells drilled in 2024, which was predominately funded by the Company’s 2024 net cash provided by operating activities of $239.3 million.
Key Metrics During the Quarter: The Company realized net income of $34.2 million, Adjusted EBITDA¹ of $76.2 million, and funds flow from operations¹ of $44.1 million, compared with $1.1 million, $92.8 million, and $60.3 million, respectively, in third quarter 2024 (“the Prior Quarter”). The Company recognized record high quarterly production of 41,009 BOEPD.
Cash Balance: The Company had $103.4 million in cash and cash equivalents as at December 31, 2024 an increase compared to a cash balance of $62.1 million as at December 31, 2023.
Share Buybacks: Since January 1, 2022, through its NCIB programs, the Company has re-purchased 6.8 million shares of Common Stock representing about 19% of shares outstanding as of December 31, 2024.
2024 Operating Costs: Total operating expenses were $202.3 million, compared to $186.9 million in 2023, representing an 8% increase while operating expenses per boe were $16.14, 2% higher when compared to 2023. This increase in 2024 was primarily as a result of higher workovers, and removal of diesel subsidies and higher gas and electricity costs in Colombia, partially offset by lower operating costs in Ecuador as a result of production ramp-up in 2024.
2024 Cash General and Administrative Costs: The Company’s gross cash general and administrative (“G&A”) costs decreased to $3.18 per boe from $3.38 per boe in 2023. Total cash G&A costs were $39.9 million, a decrease of 1% from $40.1 million in 2023, due to lower business development, legal and consulting costs compared to 2023, offset by the addition of two months of G&A from the newly acquired Canadian operation.
Oil, Natural Gas and Natural Gas Liquids (“NGL”) Sales:
- 2024: Gran Tierra’s oil, natural gas and NGL sales decreased 2% to $621.8 million, compared to $637.0 million in 2023. This decrease was primarily driven by a 3% decrease in Brent price and a 6% decrease in sales volumes in Colombia, offset by an increase in sales volumes in Ecuador and two months of production in Canada and lower differentials.
- The Quarter: Gran Tierra generated oil, natural gas and NGL sales of $147.3 million, a decrease of 3% or $4.1 million from the Prior Quarter, primarily driven by a 6% decrease in the Brent oil price, offsetting a 31% increase in production. Oil, natural gas and NGL sales were $39.73 per boe, a 22% decrease from the Prior Quarter primarily as a result of low natural gas prices in Canada.
Operating Netback¹:
- 2024: Gran Tierra’s operating netback¹ of $31.99 per boe was down 13% from $36.72 in 2023.
- The Quarter: The Company’s operating netback¹ of $22.19 per boe was lower by 38% from the fourth quarter 2023 and a decrease of 35% from the Prior Quarter due to increased weighting to natural gas in Canada and lower oil price.

Operational Update

Colombia:
- Suroriente Block: The first well on the Cohembi North pad spud on February 10, 2025, with production expected by the end of the first quarter of 2025.
Ecuador:
- Iguana Block: Gran Tierra is currently drilling the first exploration well in its 6-8 well program with the Iguana SUR-B1 exploration well which was spud on February 4, 2025.
Canada:
- Simonette: The development plan with our new joint venture partner, Logan Energy Corp., has commenced with the first two horizontal wells being drilled. Both wells are planned to be stimulated by the end of February and onstream by the end of the first quarter 2025.
- Central: Gran Tierra has drilled and completed a well in the Nisku with a horizontal lateral length of over 3,000 meters; testing has commenced.
- Clearwater: Gran Tierra has drilled 5 new wells in the Clearwater at East Dawson and Walrus. The program has confirmed the quality of our acreage in the Clearwater play. These wells are expected to come on-stream in the first quarter 2025. A pilot waterflood at Marten Hills will commence with the drilling of a multilateral injector in the first quarter 2025.

Gran Tierra’s Commitment to Go “Beyond Compliance” with Safe and Sustainable Operations

2024 was the Company’s safest year on record. GTE has accumulated a total of 27.8 million person-hours without a Lost Time Injury (LTI), and in 2024, the Company’s Total Recordable Incident Frequency (TRIF) was 0.03, placing Gran Tierra in the top quartile for safety performance across its operating regions.
2024 was another exciting year for the NaturAmazonas project, a partnership founded by Conservation International and Gran Tierra Energy in 2017. The high-quality cocoa produced through this program garnered international attention resulting in a signed commercial agreement with KAOKA, one of the largest buyers of organic cocoa worldwide, to export 12.5 tons of organic deforestation free cocoa. This outcome means additional markets and incomes for producers in Putumayo.
To date, the NaturAmazonas program has seen over 3,500 hectares of the Amazonian rainforest restored including over 1.6 million trees planted. The meliponiculturists (stingless beekeepers) from our Sustainable Productive Landscapes program, own Colombia’s largest number of hives, which is estimated to be 6,000 hives. Their bees contribute to pollination across approximately 24,000 hectares of native forests and cultivated plantations.
The NaturAmazonas project has also benefited more than 4,200 families from the departments of Putumayo, Caquetá and Cauca, who have been trained in conservation techniques and supported the implementation of sustainable economic opportunities such as the production of organic cocoa, honey and açaí.
Gran Tierra has been accepted by the Voluntary Principles Initiative (VPI) as an official member of the Voluntary Principles for Security and Human Rights world-wide initiative.

Corporate Presentation:

Gran Tierra’s Corporate Presentation has been updated and is available at www.grantierra.com.

Financial and Operational Highlights⁵(all amounts in $000s, except per share and boe amounts)

	Year Ended						Three Months Ended
	December 31,			December 31,			December 31,			December 31,			September 30,
		2024			2023			2024			2023			2024
Net Income (Loss)	$	3,216		$	(6,287	)	$	(34,210	)	$	7,711		$	1,133
Net Income (Loss) Per Share – Basic	$	0.10		$	(0.19	)	$	(1.04	)	$	0.24		$	0.04
Net Income (Loss) Per Share – Diluted	$	0.10		$	(0.19	)	$	(1.04	)	$	0.23		$	0.04

Oil, Natural Gas and NGL Sales	$	621,849		$	636,957		$	147,290		$	154,944		$	151,373
Operating Expenses		(202,331	)		(186,864	)		(60,770	)		(47,637	)		(46,060	)
Transportation Expenses		(18,464	)		(14,546	)		(4,279	)		(3,947	)		(3,911	)
Operating Netback¹	$	401,054		$	435,547		$	82,241		$	103,360		$	101,402

G&A Expenses Before Stock-based Compensation	$	39,912		$	40,124		$	8,672		$	11,072		$	9,491
G&A Expenses (Recovery) Stock-Based Compensation		9,707			5,722			3,331			1,974			(3,145	)
G&A Expenses, Including Stock-Based Compensation	$	49,619		$	45,846		$	12,003		$	13,046		$	6,346

EBITDA¹	$	355,690		$	377,550		$	65,247		$	83,634		$	97,365

Adjusted EBITDA¹	$	366,758		$	399,355		$	76,168		$	92,964		$	92,794

Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities	$	239,321		$	227,992		$	26,607		$	69,027		$	78,654

Funds Flow from Operations¹	$	224,941		$	276,785		$	44,129		$	84,663		$	60,338

Capital Expenditures	$	234,236		$	226,584		$	70,413		$	35,826		$	49,779

Free Cash Flow¹	$	(9,295	)	$	50,201		$	(26,284	)	$	48,837		$	10,559

Average Daily Volumes (BOEPD)
Working Interest Production Before Royalties		34,710			32,647			41,009			31,309			32,764
Royalties		(6,820	)		(6,548	)		(7,327	)		(6,417	)		(6,776	)
Production NAR		27,890			26,099			33,682			24,892			25,988
(Decrease) Increase in Inventory		(454	)		(152	)		(712	)		57			(523	)
Sales		27,436			25,947			32,970			24,949			25,465
Royalties, % of WI Production Before Royalties		20	%		20	%		18	%		20	%		21	%

Per boe⁵
Brent	$	79.86		$	82.16		$	74.01		$	82.85		$	78.71
Quality and Transportation Discount		(17.93	)		(14.91	)		(25.45	)		(15.34	)		(14.10	)
Royalties		(12.33	)		(13.55	)		(8.83	)		(13.47	)		(13.58	)
Average Realized Price	$	49.60		$	53.70		$	39.73		$	54.04		$	51.03
Transportation Expenses		(1.47	)		(1.23	)		(1.15	)		(1.38	)		(1.32	)
Average Realized Price Net of Transportation Expenses	$	48.13		$	52.47		$	38.58		$	52.66		$	49.71
Operating Expenses		(16.14	)		(15.75	)		(16.39	)		(16.61	)		(15.53	)
Operating Netback¹	$	31.99		$	36.72		$	22.19		$	36.05		$	34.18
Cash G&A Expenses		(3.18	)		(3.38	)		(2.34	)		(3.86	)		(3.20	)
Severance Expenses		(0.12	)		—			(0.41	)		—			—
Transaction Costs		(0.47	)		—			(1.20	)		—			(0.49	)
Realized Foreign Exchange Gain (Loss)		0.07			(1.43	)		0.07			(0.34	)		0.34
Cash Settlement on Derivative Instruments		0.09			—			0.30			—			—
Interest Expense, Excluding Amortization of Debt Issuance Costs		(5.38	)		(4.21	)		(5.40	)		(5.35	)		(5.65	)
Interest Income		0.29			0.17			0.34			0.10			0.23
Other Cash Gain		0.12			—			0.40			—			—
Net Lease Payments		0.07			0.16			0.07			0.13			0.07
Current Income Tax (Expense) Recovery		(5.53	)		(4.70	)		(2.12	)		2.80			(5.13	)
Cash Netback¹	$	17.95		$	23.33		$	11.90		$	29.53		$	20.35

Share Information (000s)
Common Stock Outstanding, End of Period		35,972			32,247			35,972			32,247			33,288
Weighted Average Number of Common – Basic		32,043			33,470			34,333			32,861			33,287
Weighted Average Number of Common – Diluted		32,043			33,470			34,333			32,921			33,350

	As at December 31
($000s)		2024		2023	% Change
Cash and cash equivalents	$	103,379	$	62,146	66

Credit facility	$	—	$	36,364	(100	)

Senior Notes	$	786,619	$	536,619	47

Additional information on 2024 expenses:

Quality and Transportation Discount: increased in 2024 to $17.93 per boe compared to $14.91 per boe in 2023.
Transportation Expenses: increased by 20% to $1.47 per boe in 2024 from $1.23 per boe in 2023 primarily due to higher sales volumes transported in Ecuador, two months transportation of sales volumes in Canada through pipelines, and an increase in trucking tariffs for Acordionero volumes in 2024.
Royalties: decreased to $12.33 per boe in 2024, from $13.55 per boe in 2023. This decrease was driven by the 3% decrease in the Brent oil price in 2024 relative to 2023.

_{¹ Operating netback, EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, funds flow from operations, net debt, free cash flow, and cash netback, are non-GAAP measures and do not have a standardized meaning under GAAP. Cash flow refers to the GAAP line item “net cash provided by operating activities”. Refer to “Non-GAAP Measures” in this press release for descriptions of these non-GAAP measures and reconciliations to the most directly comparable measures calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP.}
_{² NAV per share is calculated as NPV10 (before or after tax, as applicable) of the applicable reserves category minus net debt, divided by the number of shares of Gran Tierra’s common stock issued and outstanding.}
_{³ All dollar amounts are in United States dollars and production and reserves volumes are on an average WI before royalties basis, unless otherwise indicated. Per boe amounts are based on WI sales before royalties. Production is expressed in boepd and reserves are expressed in boe or MMBOE, unless otherwise indicated. For per boe amounts based on net after royalty (“NAR”) production, see Gran Tierra’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed February 24, 2025}
_{⁴ Outstanding shares based on December 31, 2023 balance of 32,246,501 shares}
_{⁵ Per boe amounts are based on WI sales before royalties. For per boe amounts based on NAR production, see Gran Tierra’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on February 24, 2025.}
_{⁶ The after-tax net present value of the Company’s oil and gas properties reflects the tax burden on the properties on a stand-alone basis. It does not consider the corporate tax situation, or tax planning. It does not provide an estimate of the value at the Company level which may be significantly different. The Company’s financial statements should be consulted for information at the Company level.}

Conference Call Information

Gran Tierra will host its fourth quarter and full year 2024 results conference call on Monday, February 24, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. Mountain Time, 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time, and 4:00 p.m. Greenwich Mean Time. Interested parties may register for the conference call by going to the following link: https://register.vevent.com/register/BI73eac887f1ea473fb403e3c298d6860c. Please note that there is no longer a general dial-in number to participate and each individual party must register through the provided link. Once parties have registered, they will be provided a unique PIN and call-in details. There is also a feature that allows parties to elect to be called back through the “Call Me” function on the platform. Interested parties can also continue to access the live webcast from their mobile or desktop devices by going to the following link: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/6sr4wvg8, which is also available on Gran Tierra’s website at https://www.grantierra.com/investor-relations/presentations-events/.

About Gran Tierra Energy Inc.

Gran Tierra Energy Inc., together with its subsidiaries, is an independent international energy company currently focused on oil and natural gas exploration and production in Canada, Colombia and Ecuador. The Company is currently developing its existing portfolio of assets in Canada, Colombia and Ecuador and will continue to pursue additional new growth opportunities that would further strengthen the Company’s portfolio. The Company’s common stock trades on the NYSE American, the Toronto Stock Exchange and the London Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol GTE. Additional information concerning Gran Tierra is available at www.grantierra.com. Except to the extent expressly stated otherwise, information on the Company’s website or accessible from our website or any other website is not incorporated by reference into and should not be considered part of this press release. Investor inquiries may be directed to info@grantierra.com or (403) 265-3221.

Gran Tierra’s Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) filings are available on the SEC website at http://www.sec.gov. The Company’s Canadian securities regulatory filings are available on SEDAR+ at http://www.sedarplus.ca and UK regulatory filings are available on the National Storage Mechanism website at https://data.fca.org.uk/#/nsm/nationalstoragemechanism.

Contact Information

For investor and media inquiries please contact:

Gary Guidry, President & Chief Executive Officer

Ryan Ellson, Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

Tel: +1.403.265.3221

For more information on Gran Tierra please go to: www.grantierra.com.

Forward Looking Statements and Legal Advisories:

This press release contains opinions, forecasts, projections, and other statements about future events or results that constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and financial outlook and forward looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws (collectively, “forward- looking statements”), which can be identified by such terms as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “forecast,” “budget,” “will,” “estimate,” “target,” “project,” “plan,” “should,” “guidance,” “outlook,” “strives” or similar expressions are forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, the Company’s strategies and expectations, capital program, drilling plans, cost saving initiatives, future sources of funding for capital expenditures and other activities, future planned operations and production estimates, forecast prices, and the Company’s plans to benefit the environment or communities in which it operates. Statements relating to “reserves” are also deemed to be forward-looking statements, as they involve the implied assessment, based on certain estimates and assumptions, including that the reserves described can be profitably produced in the future.

The forward-looking statements contained in this press release reflect several material factors and expectations and assumptions of Gran Tierra including, without limitation, that Gran Tierra will continue to conduct its operations in a manner consistent with its current expectations, the ability of Gran Tierra to successfully integrate the assets and operations of i3 Energy or realize the anticipated benefits and operating synergies expected from the acquisition of i3 Energy, the accuracy of testing and production results and seismic data, pricing and cost estimates (including with respect to commodity pricing and exchange rates), rig availability, the risk profile of planned exploration activities, the effects of drilling down-dip, the 5-year weighted-average Brent forecast, the effects of waterflood and multi-stage fracture stimulation operations, the extent and effect of delivery disruptions, and the general continuance of current or, where applicable, assumed operational, regulatory and industry conditions in Canada, Colombia and Ecuador and areas of potential expansion, and the ability of Gran Tierra to execute its business and operational plans in the manner currently planned. Gran Tierra believes the material factors, expectations and assumptions reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable at this time but no assurance can be given that these factors, expectations and assumptions will prove to be correct.

Among the important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated by the forward-looking statements in this press release are: our operations are located in South America and unexpected problems can arise due to guerilla activity, strikes, local blockades or protests; technical difficulties and operational difficulties may arise which impact the production, transport or sale of our products; other disruptions to local operations; global health events; global and regional changes in the demand, supply, prices, differentials or other market conditions affecting oil and gas, including inflation and changes resulting from a global health crisis, geopolitical events, including the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Gaza region, or from the imposition or lifting of crude oil production quotas or other actions that might be imposed by OPEC and other producing countries and resulting company or third-party actions in response to such changes; changes in commodity prices, including volatility or a prolonged decline in these prices relative to historical or future expected levels; the risk that current global economic and credit conditions may impact oil and natural gas prices and oil and natural gas consumption more than we currently predict, which could cause further modification of our strategy and capital spending program; prices and markets for oil and natural gas are unpredictable and volatile; the effect of hedges; the accuracy of productive capacity of any particular field; geographic, political and weather conditions can impact the production, transport or sale of our products; our ability to execute our business plan, which may include acquisitions, and realize expected benefits from current or future initiatives; the risk that unexpected delays and difficulties in developing currently owned properties may occur; the ability to replace reserves and production and develop and manage reserves on an economically viable basis; the accuracy of testing and production results and seismic data, pricing and cost estimates (including with respect to commodity pricing and exchange rates); the risk profile of planned exploration activities; the effects of drilling down-dip; the effects of waterflood and multi-stage fracture stimulation operations; the extent and effect of delivery disruptions, equipment performance and costs; actions by third parties; the timely receipt of regulatory or other required approvals for our operating activities; the failure of exploratory drilling to result in commercial wells; unexpected delays due to the limited availability of drilling equipment and personnel; volatility or declines in the trading price of our common stock or bonds; the risk that we do not receive the anticipated benefits of government programs, including government tax refunds; our ability to comply with financial covenants in its credit agreement and indentures and make borrowings under any credit agreement; and the risk factors detailed from time to time in Gran Tierra’s periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including, without limitation, under the caption “Risk Factors” in Gran Tierra’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 filed February 24, 2025 and its other filings with the SEC. These filings are available on the SEC website at http://www.sec.gov and on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Although the current guidance, capital spending program and long term strategy of Gran Tierra are based upon the current expectations of the management of Gran Tierra, should any one of a number of issues arise, Gran Tierra may find it necessary to alter its business strategy and/or capital spending program and there can be no assurance as at the date of this press release as to how those funds may be reallocated or strategy changed and how that would impact Gran Tierra’s results of operations and financial position. Forecasts and expectations that cover multi-year time horizons or are associated with 2P reserves inherently involve increased risks and actual results may differ materially.

All forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this press release and the fact that this press release remains available does not constitute a representation by Gran Tierra that Gran Tierra believes these forward-looking statements continue to be true as of any subsequent date. Actual results may vary materially from the expected results expressed in forward-looking statements. Gran Tierra disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable law. In addition, historical, current and forward-looking sustainability-related statements may be based on standards for measuring progress that are still developing, internal controls and processes that continue to evolve, and assumptions that are subject to change in the future.

The estimates of future production, future net revenue and certain expenses or costs set forth in this press release may be considered to be future-oriented financial information or a financial outlook for the purposes of applicable Canadian securities laws. Financial outlook and future-oriented financial information contained in this press release about prospective operational and financial performance, financial position or cash flows are provided to give the reader a better understanding of the potential future performance of the Company in certain areas and are based on assumptions about future events, including economic conditions and proposed courses of action, based on management’s assessment of the relevant information currently available, and to become available in the future. In particular, this press release contains projected operational and financial information for 2025. These projections contain forward-looking statements and are based on a number of material assumptions and factors set out above. Actual results may differ significantly from the projections presented herein. The actual results of Gran Tierra’s operations for any period could vary from the amounts set forth in these projections, and such variations may be material. See above for a discussion of the risks that could cause actual results to vary. The future-oriented financial information and financial outlooks contained in this press release have been approved by management as of the date of this press release. Readers are cautioned that any such financial outlook and future-oriented financial information contained herein should not be used for purposes other than those for which it is disclosed herein. The Company and its management believe that the prospective operational and financial information has been prepared on a reasonable basis, reflecting management’s best estimates and judgments, and represent, to the best of management’s knowledge and opinion, the Company’s expected course of action. However, because this information is highly subjective, it should not be relied on as necessarily indicative of future results.

Non-GAAP Measures

This press release includes non-GAAP financial measures as further described herein. These non-GAAP measures do not have a standardized meaning under GAAP. Investors are cautioned that these measures should not be construed as alternatives to net income or loss, cash flow from operating activities or other measures of financial performance as determined in accordance with GAAP. Gran Tierra’s method of calculating these measures may differ from other companies and, accordingly, they may not be comparable to similar measures used by other companies. Each non-GAAP financial measure is presented along with the corresponding GAAP measure so as not to imply that more emphasis should be placed on the non-GAAP measure.

Net Debt, as presented as at December 31, 2024 is comprised of $787 million (gross) of senior notes outstanding less cash and cash equivalents of $103 million, prepared in accordance with GAAP. Management believes that net debt is a useful supplemental measure for management and investors in order to evaluate the financial sustainability of the Company’s business and leverage. The most directly comparable GAAP measure is total debt.

Operating netback, as presented is defined as oil, natural gas and NGL sales less operating and transportation expenses. Operating netback per boe, as presented is defined as average realized price per boe less operating and transportation expenses per boe. Cash netback, as presented, is defined as net income or loss adjusted for depletion, depreciation and accretion (“DD&A”) expenses, deferred tax expense or recovery, stock-based compensation expense or recovery, amortization of debt issuance costs, non-cash lease expense, lease payments, unrealized foreign exchange gains or losses, other non-cash gains or losses and other financial instruments gains or losses. Cash netback per boe, as presented, is defined as cash netback over WI sales volumes. Management believes that operating netback and cash netback are useful supplemental measures for investors to analyze financial performance and provide an indication of the results generated by Gran Tierra’s principal business activities prior to the consideration of other income and expenses. See the table entitled Financial and Operational Highlights above for the components of operating netback and operating netback per boe. A reconciliation from net income or loss to cash netback is as follows:

	Year Ended						Three Months Ended
	December 31,						December 31,						September 30,
Cash Netback – Non-GAAP Measure ($000s)		2024			2023			2024			2023			2024
Net (loss) income	$	3,216		$	(6,287	)	$	(34,210	)	$	7,711		$	1,133
Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to cash netback
DD&A expenses		230,619			215,584			63,406			52,635			55,573
Deferred tax (recovery) expense		(27,888	)		56,759			4,444			13,517			5,550
Stock-based compensation expense (recovery)		9,707			5,722			3,331			1,974			(3,145	)
Amortization of debt issuance costs		12,918			5,831			3,743			2,437			3,109
Non-cash lease expense		5,923			4,967			1,759			1,479			1,370
Lease payments		(5,035	)		(3,018	)		(1,495	)		(1,100	)		(1,171	)
Unrealized foreign exchange (gain) loss		(7,893	)		(5,085	)		(223	)		2,729			(2,081	)
Other non-cash loss		—			2,312			—			3,281			—
Unrealized derivative instruments loss		3,374			—			3,374			—			—
Cash netback (non-GAAP)	$	224,941		$	276,785		$	44,129		$	84,663		$	60,338

EBITDA, as presented, is defined as net income or loss adjusted for DD&A expenses, interest expense, and income tax expense. Adjusted EBITDA, as presented, is defined as EBITDA adjusted for non-cash lease expense, lease payments, foreign exchange gains or losses, transaction costs, other financial instruments gains or losses, other non-cash gain or loss and stock-based compensation expense. Management uses this supplemental measure to analyze performance and income generated by our principal business activities prior to the consideration of how non-cash items affect that income, and believes that this financial measure is a useful supplemental information for investors to analyze our performance and our financial results. A reconciliation from net income or loss or loss to EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA is as follows:

	Year Ended						Three Months Ended
	December 31,						December 31,						September 30,
EBITDA – Non-GAAP Measure ($000s)		2024			2023			2024			2023			2024
Net (loss) income	$	3,216		$	(6,287	)	$	(34,210	)	$	7,711		$	1,133
Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA
DD&A expenses		230,619			215,584			63,406			52,635			55,573
Interest expense		80,466			55,806			23,752			17,789			19,892
Income tax expense		41,389			112,447			12,299			5,499			20,767
EBITDA (non-GAAP)	$	355,690		$	377,550		$	65,247		$	83,634		$	97,365
Non-cash lease expense		5,923			4,967			1,759			1,479			1,370
Lease payments		(5,035	)		(3,018	)		(1,495	)		(1,100	)		(1,171	)
Foreign exchange loss		(8,808	)		11,822			(496	)		3,696			(3,084	)
Unrealized derivative instruments loss		3,374			—			3,374			—			—
Transaction costs		5,907			—			4,448			—			1,459
Other non-cash gain		—			2,312			—			3,281			—
Stock-based compensation expense (recovery)		9,707			5,722			3,331			1,974			(3,145	)
Adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP)	$	366,758		$	399,355		$	76,168		$	92,964		$	92,794

Funds flow from operations, as presented, is defined as net income or loss adjusted for DD&A expenses, deferred tax expense or recovery, stock-based compensation expense or recovery, amortization of debt issuance costs, non-cash lease expense, lease payments, unrealized foreign exchange gains or losses, other non-cash gains or losses, and other financial instruments gains or losses. Management uses this financial measure to analyze performance and income or loss generated by our principal business activities prior to the consideration of how non-cash items affect that income or loss, and believes that this financial measure is also useful supplemental information for investors to analyze performance and our financial results. Free cash flow, as presented, is defined as funds flow from operations adjusted for capital expenditures. Management uses this financial measure to analyze cash flow generated by our principal business activities after capital requirements and believes that this financial measure is also useful supplemental information for investors to analyze performance and our financial results. A reconciliation from net income or loss or loss to funds flow from operations and free cash flow is as follows:

	Year Ended						Three Months Ended
	December 31,							December 31,						September 30,
Funds Flow From Operations – Non-GAAP Measure ($000s)		2024			2023				2024			2023			2024
Net (loss) income	$	3,216		$	(6,287	)		$	(34,210	)	$	7,711		$	1,133
Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to funds flow from operations
DD&A expenses		230,619			215,584				63,406			52,635			55,573
Deferred tax (recovery) expense		(27,888	)		56,759				4,444			13,517			5,550
Stock-based compensation expense (recovery)		9,707			5,722				3,331			1,974			(3,145	)
Amortization of debt issuance costs		12,918			5,831				3,743			2,437			3,109
Non-cash lease expense		5,923			4,967				1,759			1,479			1,370
Lease payments		(5,035	)		(3,018	)			(1,495	)		(1,100	)		(1,171	)
Unrealized foreign exchange (gain) loss		(7,893	)		(5,085	)			(223	)		2,729			(2,081	)
Other non-cash loss		—			2,312				—			3,281			—
Unrealized derivative instruments loss		3,374			—				3,374			—			—
Funds flow from operations (non-GAAP)	$	224,941		$	276,785			$	44,129		$	84,663		$	60,338
Capital expenditures	$	234,236		$	226,584			$	70,413		$	35,826		$	49,779
Free cash flow (non-GAAP)	$	(9,295	)	$	50,201			$	(26,284	)	$	48,837		$	10,559

DISCLOSURE OF OIL AND GAS INFORMATION

Gran Tierra’s Statement of Reserves Data and Other Oil and Gas Information on Form 51-101F1 dated effective as at December 31, 2024, which includes disclosure of its oil and gas reserves and other oil and gas information in accordance with NI 51-101 and COGEH forming the basis of this press release, is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. All reserves values, future net revenue and ancillary information contained in this press release as of December 31, 2024 are derived from the GTE McDaniel Reserves Report.

Estimates of net present value and future net revenue contained herein do not necessarily represent fair market value of reserves. Estimates of reserves and future net revenue for individual properties may not reflect the same level of confidence as estimates of reserves and future net revenue for all properties, due to the effect of aggregation. There is no assurance that the forecast price and cost assumptions applied by McDaniel in evaluating Gran Tierra’s reserves and future net revenue will be attained and variances could be material. See Gran Tierra’s press release dated January 23, 2025 for a summary of the price forecasts employed by McDaniel in the GTE McDaniel Reserves Report and other information regarding the disclosed future net revenue.

All evaluations of future net revenue contained in the GTE McDaniel Reserves Report are after the deduction of royalties, operating costs, development costs, production costs and abandonment and reclamation costs but before consideration of indirect costs such as administrative, overhead and other miscellaneous expenses. It should not be assumed that the estimates of future net revenue presented in this press release represent the fair market value of the reserves. There are numerous uncertainties inherent in estimating quantities of crude oil and natural gas reserves and the future cash flows attributed to such reserves. The reserve and associated cash flow information set forth in the GTE McDaniel Reserves Report are estimates only and there is no guarantee that the estimated reserves will be recovered. Actual reserves may be greater than or less than the estimates provided therein.

BOEs have been converted on the basis of six thousand cubic feet (“Mcf”) natural gas to 1 boe of oil. BOEs may be misleading, particularly if used in isolation. A BOE conversion ratio of 6 Mcf: 1 boe is based on an energy equivalency conversion method primarily applicable at the burner tip and does not represent a value equivalency at the wellhead. In addition, given that the value ratio based on the current price of oil as compared with natural gas is significantly different from the energy equivalent of six to one, utilizing a BOE conversion ratio of 6 Mcf: 1 boe would be misleading as an indication of value.

References to a formation where evidence of hydrocarbons has been encountered is not necessarily an indicator that hydrocarbons will be recoverable in commercial quantities or in any estimated volume. Gran Tierra’s reported production is a mix of light crude oil and medium, heavy crude oil, tight oil, conventional natural gas, shale gas and natural gas liquids for which there is no precise breakdown since the Company’s sales volumes typically represent blends of more than one product type. Well test results should be considered as preliminary and not necessarily indicative of long-term performance or of ultimate recovery. Well log interpretations indicating oil and gas accumulations are not necessarily indicative of future production or ultimate recovery. If it is indicated that a pressure transient analysis or well-test interpretation has not been carried out, any data disclosed in that respect should be considered preliminary until such analysis has been completed. References to thickness of “oil pay” or of a formation where evidence of hydrocarbons has been encountered is not necessarily an indicator that hydrocarbons will be recoverable in commercial quantities or in any estimated volume.

Future Net Revenue

Future net revenue reflects McDaniel’s forecast of revenue estimated using forecast prices and costs, arising from the anticipated development and production of reserves, after the deduction of royalties, operating costs, development costs and abandonment and reclamation costs and taxes but before consideration of indirect costs such as administrative, overhead and other miscellaneous expenses. The estimate of future net revenue below does not necessarily represent fair market value.

Consolidated Properties at December 31, 2024
Proved (1P) Total Future Net Revenue ($ million)
Forecast Prices and Costs
Years	Sales Revenue	Total Royalties		Operating Costs		Future Development Capital		Abandonment and Reclamation Costs		Future Net Revenue Before Future Taxes	Future Taxes		Future Net Revenue After Future Taxes*
2025-2029 (5 Years)	5,139	(981	)	(1,385	)	(1,025	)	(27	)	1,721	(491	)	1,230
Remainder	3,617	(578	)	(1,549	)	(4	)	(377	)	1,109	(370	)	739
Total (Undiscounted)	8,756	(1,559	)	(2,934	)	(1,029	)	(404	)	2,830	(861	)	1,969
Total (Discounted @ 10%)										1,950	(565	)	1,385

Consolidated Properties at December 31, 2024
Proved Plus Probable (2P) Total Future Net Revenue ($ million)
Forecast Prices and Costs
Years	Sales Revenue	Total Royalties		Operating Costs		Future Development Capital		Abandonment and Reclamation Costs		Future Net Revenue Before Future Taxes	Future Taxes		Future Net Revenue After Future Taxes*
2025-2029 (5 Years)	6,620	(1,297	)	(1,583	)	(1,438	)	(25	)	2,277	(791	)	1,486
Remainder	8,685	(1,529	)	(2,967	)	(371	)	(420	)	3,398	(1,082	)	2,316
Total (Undiscounted)	15,305	(2,826	)	(4,550	)	(1,809	)	(445	)	5,675	(1,873	)	3,802
Total (Discounted @ 10%)										3,242	(1,083	)	2,159

Consolidated Properties at December 31, 2024
Proved Plus Probable Plus Possible (3P) Total Future Net Revenue ($ million)
Forecast Prices and Costs
Years	Sales Revenue	Total Royalties		Operating Costs		Future Development Capital		Abandonment and Reclamation Costs		Future Net Revenue Before Future Taxes	Future Taxes		Future Net Revenue After Future Taxes*
2025-2029 (5 Years)	7,490	(1,467	)	(1,672	)	(1,563	)	(25	)	2,763	(1,015	)	1,748
Remainder	13,422	(2,598	)	(4,106	)	(519	)	(439	)	5,760	(1,907	)	3,853
Total (Undiscounted)	20,912	(4,065	)	(5,778	)	(2,082	)	(464	)	8,523	(2,922	)	5,601
Total (Discounted @ 10%)										4,517	(1,587	)	2,930

Definitions

Proved reserves are those reserves that can be estimated with a high degree of certainty to be recoverable. It is likely that the actual remaining quantities recovered will exceed the estimated proved reserves.

Probable reserves are those additional reserves that are less certain to be recovered than proved reserves. It is equally likely that the actual remaining quantities recovered will be greater or less than the sum of the estimated proved plus probable reserves.

Possible reserves are those additional reserves that are less certain to be recovered than Probable reserves. It is unlikely that the actual remaining quantities recovered will be greater or less than the sum of the estimated proved plus probable plus possible reserves. There is a 10% probability that the quantities actually recovered will equal or exceed the sum of Proved plus Probable plus Possible reserves.

Certain terms used in this press release but not defined are defined in NI 51-101, CSA Staff Notice 51-324 – Revised Glossary to NI 51-101 Standards of Disclosure for Oil and Gas Activities (“CSA Staff Notice 51-324”) and/or the COGEH and, unless the context otherwise requires, shall have the same meanings herein as in NI 51-101, CSA Staff Notice 51-324 and the COGEH, as the case may be.

Oil and Gas Metrics

This press release contains a number of oil and gas metrics, including NAV per share, FD&A costs, operating netback, cash netback, and reserves replacement which do not have standardized meanings or standard methods of calculation and therefore such measures may not be comparable to similar measures used by other companies and should not be used to make comparisons. Such metrics have been included herein to provide readers with additional measures to evaluate the Company’s performance; however, such measures are not reliable indicators of the future performance of the Company and future performance may not compare to the performance in previous periods.

NAV per share is calculated as the applicable NPV10 (before or after-tax, as applicable) of the applicable reserves category minus estimated net debt, divided by the number of shares of Gran Tierra’s common stock issued and outstanding. Management uses NAV per share as a measure of the relative change of Gran Tierra’s net asset value over its outstanding common stock over a period of time.
FD&A costs are calculated as estimated exploration and development capital expenditures, including acquisitions and dispositions, divided by the applicable reserves additions both before and after changes in FDC costs. The calculation of FD&A costs incorporates the change in FDC required to bring proved undeveloped and developed reserves into production. The aggregate of the exploration and development costs incurred in the financial year and the changes during that year in estimated FDC may not reflect the total FD&A costs related to reserves additions for that year. Management uses FD&A costs per boe as a measure of its ability to execute its capital program and of its asset quality
Operating netback and cash netback are calculated as described in this press release. Management believes that operating netback and cash netback are useful supplemental measures for the reasons described in this press release.
Reserves replacement is calculated as reserves in the referenced category divided by estimated referenced production. Management uses this measure to determine the relative change of its reserves base over a period of time.

Disclosure of Reserve Information and Cautionary Note to U.S. Investors

Unless expressly stated otherwise, all estimates of proved developed producing, proved, probable and possible reserves and related future net revenue disclosed in this press release have been prepared in accordance with NI 51-101. Estimates of reserves and future net revenue made in accordance with NI 51-101 will differ from corresponding GAAP standardized measures prepared in accordance with applicable SEC rules and disclosure requirements of the U.S. Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”), and those differences may be material. NI 51-101, for example, requires disclosure of reserves and related future net revenue estimates based on forecast prices and costs, whereas SEC and FASB standards require that reserves and related future net revenue be estimated using average prices for the previous 12 months and that the standardized measure reflect discounted future net income taxes related to the Company’s operations. In addition, NI 51-101 permits the presentation of reserves estimates on a “company gross” basis, representing Gran Tierra’s working interest share before deduction of royalties, whereas SEC and FASB standards require the presentation of net reserve estimates after the deduction of royalties and similar payments. There are also differences in the technical reserves estimation standards applicable under NI 51-101 and, pursuant thereto, the COGEH, and those applicable under SEC and FASB requirements.

In addition to being a reporting issuer in certain Canadian jurisdictions, Gran Tierra is a registrant with the SEC and subject to domestic issuer reporting requirements under U.S. federal securities law, including with respect to the disclosure of reserves and other oil and gas information in accordance with U.S. federal securities law and applicable SEC rules and regulations (collectively, “SEC requirements”). Disclosure of such information in accordance with SEC requirements is included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and in other reports and materials filed with or furnished to the SEC and, as applicable, Canadian securities regulatory authorities. The SEC permits oil and gas companies that are subject to domestic issuer reporting requirements under U.S. federal securities law, in their filings with the SEC, to disclose only estimated proved, probable and possible reserves that meet the SEC’s definitions of such terms. Gran Tierra has disclosed estimated proved, probable and possible reserves in its filings with the SEC. In addition, Gran Tierra prepares its financial statements in accordance with United States generally accepted accounting principles, which require that the notes to its annual financial statements include supplementary disclosure in respect of the Company’s oil and gas activities, including estimates of its proved oil and gas reserves and a standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows relating to proved oil and gas reserve quantities. This supplementary financial statement disclosure is presented in accordance with FASB requirements, which align with corresponding SEC requirements concerning reserves estimation and reporting.

The Company believes that the presentation of NPV10 is useful to investors because it presents (i) relative monetary significance of its oil and natural gas properties regardless of tax structure and (ii) relative size and value of its reserves to other companies. The Company also uses this measure when assessing the potential return on investment related to its oil and natural gas properties. NPV10 and the standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows do not purport to present the fair value of the Company’s oil and gas reserves. The Company has not provided a reconciliation of NPV10 to the standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows because it is impracticable to do so.

The MIL Network –

February 25, 2025

MIL-OSI Global: Ukraine war: Trump is not trying to appease Putin – he has a vision of a new US-China-Russia order

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Stefan Wolff, Professor of International Security, University of Birmingham

There has been much and justified focus on the implications of a likely deal between US president Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin and the overwhelmingly negative consequences this will have for Ukraine and Europe. But if Trump and Putin make a deal, there is much more at stake than Ukraine’s future borders and Europe’s relationship with the US.

As we are nearing the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion, Ukraine’s future is more in doubt than it has ever been since February 2022. For once, analogies to Munich in 1938 are sadly appropriate. This is not because of a mistaken belief that Putin can be appeased, but rather because great powers, once again, make decisions on the fate of weaker states and without them in the room.

Similar to the pressure that Czechoslovakia experienced from both Germany and its supposed allies France and Britain in 1938, Ukraine is now under pressure from Russia on the battlefield and the US both diplomatically and economically. Trump and his team are pushing hard for Ukraine to make territorial concessions to Russia and accept that some 20% of Ukrainian lands under Russia’s illegal occupation are lost. In addition, Trump demands that Ukraine compensate the United States for past military support by handing over half of its mineral and rare earth resources.

The American refusal to provide tangible security guarantees not only for Ukraine but also for allied Nato troops if they were deployed to Ukraine as part of a ceasefire or peace agreement smacks of the Munich analogy. Not only did France and Britain at the time push Czechoslovakia to cede the ethnic German-majority Sudetenland to Nazi Germany. They also did nothing when Poland and Hungary also seized parts of the country. And they failed to respond when Hitler – a mere six months after the Munich agreement – broke up what was left of Czechoslovakia by creating a Slovak puppet state and occupying the remaining Czech lands.

There is every indication that Putin is unlikely to stop in or with Ukraine. And it is worth remembering that the second world war started 11 months after Neville Chamberlain thought he had secured “peace in our time”.

The Munich analogy may not carry that far, however. Trump is not trying to appease Putin because he thinks, as Chamberlain and Daladier did in 1938, that he has weaker cards than Putin. What seems to drive Trump is a more simplistic view of the world in which great powers carve out spheres of influence in which they do not interfere.

The state of the conflict in Ukraine, February 20 2025.
Institute for the Study of War

The problem for Ukraine and Europe in such a world order is that Ukraine is certainly not considered by anyone in Trump’s team as part of an American zone of influence, and Europe is at best a peripheral part of it.

Trump-eye lens on the world

For Trump, this isn’t really about Ukraine or Europe but about re-ordering the international system in a way that fits his 19th-century view of the world in which the US lives in splendid isolation and virtually unchallenged in the western hemisphere. In this world view, Ukraine is the symbol of what was wrong with the old order. Echoing the isolationism of Henry Cabot, Trump’s view is that the US has involved itself into too many different foreign adventures where none of its vital interests were at stake.

Echoing Putin’s talking points, the war against Ukraine no longer is an unjustified aggression but was, as Trump has now declared, Kyiv’s fault. Ukraine has become the ultimate test that the liberal international order failed to pass.

The war against Ukraine clearly is a symbol of the failure of the liberal international order, but hardly its sole cause. In the hands of Trump and Putin it has become the tool to deal it a final blow. But while the US and Russia, in their current political configurations, may have found it easy to bury the existing order, they will find it much harder to create a new one.

The push-back from Ukraine and key European countries may seem inconsequential for now, but even without the US, the EU and Nato have strong institutional roots and deep pockets. For all the justified criticism of the mostly aspirational responses from Europe so far, the continent is built on politically and economically far stronger foundations than Russia and the overwhelming majority of its people have no desire to emulate the living conditions in Putin’s want-to-be empire.

Nor will Trump and Putin be able to rule the world without China. A deal between them may be Trump’s idea of driving a wedge between Moscow and Beijing, but this is unlikely to work given Russia’s dependence on China and China’s rivalry with the US.

If Trump makes a deal with Xi as well, for example over Chinese territorial claims in the South China Sea, let alone over Taiwan, all he would achieve is further retrenchment of the US to the western hemisphere. This would leave Putin and Xi to pursue their own, existing deal of a no-limits partnership unimpeded by an American-led counter-weight.

From the perspective of what remains of the liberal international order and its proponents, a Putin-Xi deal, too, has an eerie parallel in history – the short-lived Hitler-Stalin pact of 1939. Only this time, there is little to suggest that the Putin-Xi alliance will break down as quickly.

Stefan Wolff is a past recipient of grant funding from the Natural Environment Research Council of the UK, the United States Institute of Peace, the Economic and Social Research Council of the UK, the British Academy, the NATO Science for Peace Programme, the EU Framework Programmes 6 and 7 and Horizon 2020, as well as the EU’s Jean Monnet Programme. He is a Trustee and Honorary Treasurer of the Political Studies Association of the UK and a Senior Research Fellow at the Foreign Policy Centre in London.

– ref. Ukraine war: Trump is not trying to appease Putin – he has a vision of a new US-China-Russia order – https://theconversation.com/ukraine-war-trump-is-not-trying-to-appease-putin-he-has-a-vision-of-a-new-us-china-russia-order-249979

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

February 25, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Environmental Impact Assessment Review (Elsevier)
Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

Mission
Environmental Impact Assessment Review (EIA Review) is a refereed, interdisciplinary journal serving a global audience of practitioners, policy-makers, regulators, academics and others with an interest in the field of impact assessment (IA) and management. Impact assessment is defined by the International Association for Impact Assessment (www.iaia.org) as the process of identifying the future consequences of a current or proposed action.

The focus of EIA Review is on innovative theory and practice that encompasses any of the above mentioned impacts and activities. In other words, EIA Review covers the following topics (the list is not exhaustive):
- Development of IA theory and concepts;
- IA legislation, procedure and practice;
- IA Governance;
- IA Methods, for example, forecasting, indicators, systems-based approaches, ecosystem services assessment, cost benefit analysis, algorithms, network-based approaches, among others;
- Life Cycle Assessment, Carbon Footprinting, Energy Analysis, Emergy Analysis, and Integrated Product Policy;
- Environmental Management Systems.
MIL OSI United Nations News –
February 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Import of poultry meat and products from Mid Ulster District of Northern Ireland in UK suspended

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

â€‹The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (February 24) that in view of a notification from the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) about an outbreak of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in the Mid Ulster District of Northern Ireland in the United Kingdom (UK), the CFS has instructed the trade to suspend the import of poultry meat and products (including poultry eggs) from the area with immediate effect to protect public health in Hong Kong.

A CFS spokesman said that according to the Census and Statistics Department, Hong Kong imported about 910 tonnes of chilled and frozen poultry meat, and about 1.34 million poultry eggs from the UK last year.

“The CFS has contacted the British authority over the issue and will closely monitor information issued by the WOAH and the relevant authorities on the avian influenza outbreak. Appropriate action will be taken in response to the development of the situation,” the spokesman said.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: EPD convictions in January

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

EPD convictions in January
EPD convictions in January
**************************

Twenty-seven convictions were recorded in January 2025 for breaches of legislation enforced by the Environmental Protection Department. One of the convictions was under the Air Pollution Control Ordinance, one was under the Noise Control Ordinance, four were under the Public Cleansing and Prevention of Nuisances Regulation, four were under the Product Eco-responsibility Ordinance, 16 were under the Waste Disposal Ordinance, and one was under the Water Pollution Control Ordinance. A company was fined $20,000, which was the heaviest fine in January, for importing controlled waste without a permit.

Ends/Monday, February 24, 2025Issued at HKT 15:00

NNNN

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 24, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: How Whyalla can be upgraded to green steel and why we need to keep steel production in Australia

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Daniel Rossetto, Adjunct, Institute for Sustainability, Energy and Resources, University of Adelaide

Financial challenges at the Whyalla steelworks in South Australia have reignited debate about the nation’s steel industry and its future.

Australians should have access to quality steel at competitive prices. The domestic steel production industry employs tens of thousands of people.

The state and federal governments have stepped in, however, announcing a A$1.9 billion support package for Whyalla, together with a new $1 billion green iron investment fund. Half of the new fund will be allocated to Whyalla to support its transition to green steel production. That’s a large amount of money for a privately owned business.

So, are the new packages going to be money well spent? To answer that question, let’s examine the priorities.

A national priority

Steel is an industry in which securing sovereign production capability is crucial. Sovereign capability means ensuring an industry can survive external shocks such as interruptions to shipping routes or disputes with other countries in the supply chain.

Steel is a vital input for defence industries such as ship and submarine building. What could be said of a country’s autonomy – or its sovereign capability – if it relies on others for the steel needed for its defence?

Whyalla is one of the two largest steelworks in Australia, the other being BlueScope’s Port Kembla plant. At least at first glance, the green iron investment fund seems to deal with the sovereign capability criterion well enough. Whyalla appears an ideal candidate.

However, the public subsidy is large. The subsidised plant’s ability to operate in an economically competitive manner needs to be examined. Further, while the Whyalla plant began its life as a supplier to an adjacent shipbuilding operation, its share of the current domestic defence industry steel market is unclear.

Environmentally friendly steel?

Production of steel using iron ore and coking coal is a greenhouse gas emissions intensive process. It can result in as many as 2.5 tonnes of greenhouse gas per tonne of steel.

The plan for Whyalla has long been to replace its coal-fired blast furnace with an electric arc furnace. This could, in turn, be supplied with low-emission sources of energy and consume scrap steel. While there is no globally agreed definition, this kind of approach would likely qualify as green steel.

Sanjeev Gupta’s GFG, the owner of the plant, had originally wanted this furnace to be operating by 2025, potentially using solar among its energy supply. The plan would have cut its emissions dramatically. The timeline later slipped to 2027.

The longer term plan for Whyalla appears based around production of green hydrogen to replace coking coal. As the world charges toward net zero emissions by 2050, the belief is that Australia can capture a good part of the green metals market.

The challenge is that green hydrogen is expensive and not widely used around the world. It’s hard to find signs that the global steel market is willing to pay a premium in the absence of sectoral emissions pricing. The strategy could therefore be seen as a bet on the future. If the bet went wrong, who would absorb the losses? It would, most likely, be the taxpayer.

The United States leads the way in low-emissions steel production. Firms there use electric arc furnaces to recycle scrap steel with energy from low-emission sources. This technology is proven and operates at industrial scale. It has a fraction of the emissions intensity but relies on the availability of scrap steel.

Can we add value?

Australia is a major world supplier of two key materials crucial for most steel making. These are iron ore and coking coal.

The countries to which we sell those raw materials then do the processing and manufacture, capturing profit that is arguably lost to the Australian economy. Whyalla is already an example of domestic value-adding. It uses iron ore from mines in the adjacent area, and domestic coking coal.

For Australia, however, this is going to be tricky. Australia is effectively signalling to its international customers that, one day, it hopes to compete with them in the global steel markets. In other words, this creates an incentive for the country’s customers to look for alternatives to buy iron ore.

Whether Australia increases steel production ahead of its customers finding new sources of iron ore elsewhere in the world is a risky race with an uncertain result.

Focus on government spending

So, back to the question: is the new funding going to be money well spent? Perhaps the most solid justification among the priorities examined, is sovereign capability.

The government probably needs to provide more information on how the new fund differs through from Future Made in Australia or the National Reconstruction Fund. Is this old funding with a new name? The nation is entering federal election season. Focus on government spending efficiency is likely to increase.

Daniel Rossetto is the owner of Climate Mundial Limited, a private company that does consulting work but is currently inactive. He does ad hoc private consulting through various consulting platforms. He is also the owner and host of a new private and independent YouTube channel called Climate Mundial’s Energy and Climate Weekly. He is on the editorial board of the Discover Sustainability journal published by Springer Nature.

– ref. How Whyalla can be upgraded to green steel and why we need to keep steel production in Australia – https://theconversation.com/how-whyalla-can-be-upgraded-to-green-steel-and-why-we-need-to-keep-steel-production-in-australia-250402

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

February 24, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Wellsford subdivision granted COVID fast-track consent – EPA

Source: Environmental Protection Authority

An independent panel has approved resource consent, subject to conditions, for the Wellsford North residential subdivision in Wellsford, Auckland.

Wellsford Welding Club Limited applied for resource consent under the COVID-19 Recovery (Fast-track Consenting) Act 2020.

The project involves constructing a residential subdivision on Rodney and Monowai Streets in Wellsford, Auckland.

The resource consent conditions are in the decision report on the page linked below.

The decision comes 214 working days after the application was lodged with the Environmental Protection Authority.

The Environmental Protection Authority is not involved in the decision-making. We provide procedural advice and administrative support to the panel convenor, Judge Laurie Newhook, and the expert consenting panel he appoints.

Note that this application was made under the COVID-19 Recovery (Fast-track Consenting) Act 2020 and not the more recent Fast-track legislation.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

February 24, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Northland Regional Council media briefs 24/02/25

Source: Northland Regional Council

Mōtatau Students learn to use stream testing kits

Northland Regional Council’s Land Management team has supported tamariki of Mōtatau School in their freshwater kaitiaki mahi through an event involving NRC, Mountains to Sea Conservation Trust, and local landowner Waipapa Ahuwhenua Trust.

The team taught 35 children to use the council’s Stream Health Monitoring Assessment Kits to test water quality in waterways on the Ahuwhenua Trust’s property in Opahi.

The kits can be used to check nitrogen and phosphorous levels, water clarity, and the types and quantity of fish and insects present.

The initiative was the brainchild of Waipapa Ahuwhenua Trust farm manager Riki Ngakoti, who wanted to equip the youngsters to be the freshwater kaitiaki of tomorrow as part of the trust’s commitment to environmental kaitiakitanga.

Climate Change Commission to come to Northland

The Climate Change Commission is planning a visit to Northland in March as it gathers evidence to inform the government on shaping a National Adaptation Plan due out this year.

The commission is keen to understand climate risks, as well as enablers and barriers to effective adaptation in a Northland context.

The Northland Regional Council’s climate team is looking forward to hosting the commission and to be able to put forward the unique challenges and opportunities we face here in Northland.

Predator Free Whangārei; new artificial intelligence-equipped traps

The field team had a busy month reinstating the leghold trap network that was shut down over the Christmas break.

Fifty traps installed along a Parua Bay barrier zone have regularly caught possums over the 100 nights they have been set and 120 possums have been caught to date.

The Nook project area (686 ha) moved from an initial knockdown stage to mop-up, where the frequency of checking is extended on the back of reduced possum numbers.

An additional 500ha of coastal farmland has moved into the knockdown phase utilizing new artificial intelligence (AI) equipped traps. We will have a keen eye on the results of these devices as they automatically transmit their data, with 42 possums removed since early January.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

February 24, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Environment – EPA approves new crop protection tool

Source: Environmental Protection Authority

The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has approved a new insecticide to control pests on key crops such as beets for livestock, and brassicas.

Bayer New Zealand applied to import or manufacture Sivanto Prime, an insecticide containing 200 g/L of flupyradifurone, a chemical new to New Zealand.

Bayer says Sivanto Prime has a new way of working that targets sucking pests such as aphids, nysius fly and springtails, providing growers with an alternative to older, broad-spectrum insecticides.

“This decision will help farmers protect crops that are essential to New Zealand’s primary sector,” says Dr Lauren Fleury, EPA Hazardous Substances Applications Manager.

Insect pests can cause significant damage to feed crops, making them less palatable to stock and reducing yields.

Bayer says Sivanto Prime may be considered compatible with newer, lighter-touch farming practices because it works in a more targeted way.

The decision to approve Sivanto Prime was made following a rigorous assessment and consultation process, says Dr Fleury.

“As this product contains an active ingredient that is new to New Zealand, we assessed the scientific data and evidence, as well as economic and local information, to help enable new chemistry while continuing to protect people’s health and our unique environment.”

Flupyradifurone is approved for use in other countries, including Australia, Canada, Europe, Japan, and the United States of America.

The substance can only be used by professionals in commercial settings, and users must comply with specific controls.

As an agricultural compound, Sivanto Prime must also receive approval from the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) before it can be used in New Zealand.

Read the decision document: https://www.epa.govt.nz/database-search/hsno-application-register/view/APP204168

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

February 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Illegal Migrants Intervening in Electoral Process, Becoming Decisive Players, says Vice-President

Source: Government of India (2)

Illegal Migrants Intervening in Electoral Process, Becoming Decisive Players, says Vice-President

Conversion Through Allurement and Temptation Aimed at Changing Nation’s Demography, warns VP

Fundamental Rights Must Be Earned Through Diligent Performance of Fundamental Duties, Says VP

VP Calls for Deep, Thorough, Micro-Level Investigation into Electoral Manipulation

We are not materialistic, but spiritualistic, religious and ethical by nature, says VP

VP addresses the 65th Convocation of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra

Posted On: 22 FEB 2025 8:04PM by PIB Delhi

The Vice-President Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar today expressed serious concern over illegal migration saying, “In our Bharat, millions of people are living here who have no right to stay. And they are not just living; they are also engaging in livelihood activities. They are making their livelihood here, placing demands on our resources—education, health, and housing sectors—and now, the issue has escalated further.They are intervening in our electoral process. Within our democratic system, they are becoming significant and even decisive players”, he noted.

हमारे भारत में करोड़ों की संख्या में ऐसे लोग रह रहे हैं, जिनको यहां रहने का अधिकार नहीं है। They are making their livelihood here, making demands on our resources—education, health sector, housing sector—और अब तो बात आगे बढ़ गई है।

They are intervening in our electoral process.… pic.twitter.com/Bdr5r2nJeU

— Vice-President of India (@VPIndia) February 22, 2025

While addressing the 65th Convocation ceremony of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra today, Shri Dhankhar cautioned against conversions through allurement and temptation saying, “Every individual has the right to follow any religion, every person has the right to adopt a religion of their choice. However, when conversion happens through enticement, greed, by allurement, by temptation, and its objective is ‘we will get supremacy by changing demography of the Nation’. History bears witness, there are examples from some countries in the world. You are more knowledgeable than me, more informed, you can find out. The very character of those nations was erased, the majority community that existed there disappeared. We cannot allow this demography invasion, organic demographic growth is acceptable, but if this is disruptive with the sinister design to control, we must be on high alert. This is a matter for our deep contemplation and reflection. This poses a challenge to our philosophy that is centuries old.” he emphasized, while affirming every individual’s right to follow their chosen religion.

There is another systemic challenge. The President is ridiculed. The Prime Minister is ridiculed. My position is ridiculed. Our institutions, Election Commission, Judiciary are tainted. These acts come from those without national interest at heart.

Recently, it was… pic.twitter.com/C0JjfU2L6d

— Vice-President of India (@VPIndia) February 22, 2025

VP Dhankhar also raised concerns about systematic attempts to undermine national institutions, and called for thorough investigations into recent revelations about attempts to manipulate electoral processes. “In a systemic manner, the President is ridiculed. The Prime Minister is ridiculed. My position is ridiculed. Our Institutions are tainted. Be it Election Commission or Judiciary. These are activities which are being undertaken by those at their heart, national interest is not there. Recently, it has been revealed authoritatively that our elections were sought to be doctored, manipulated.In such a situation, I would urge you to stay alert, think and expose, and I appeal to organisations concerned, time has come to engage into deep investigation, thorough investigation, investigation at micro level, expose everyone connected with these sinister designs aimed at destabilizing our nation, trying to manipulate our democracy.”

हर व्यक्ति का अधिकार है कि वह जिस धर्म का चाहे पालन करे, अपनी इच्छा से कोई भी धर्म अपनाए। लेकिन जब लालच देकर, लोभ देकर—by allurement, by temptation—धर्मांतरण होता है, और उसका उद्देश्य यह होता है कि we will get supremacy by changing the demography of the Nation, तो यह गंभीर चिंता… pic.twitter.com/mIEpRSzuZc

— Vice-President of India (@VPIndia) February 22, 2025

VP, in his address directed the concerned authorities to initiate a thorough investigation in this regard. “I appeal to organisations concerned, time has come to engage into deep investigation, thorough investigation, investigation at micro level, expose everyone connected with these sinister designs aimed at destabilizing our nation, trying to manipulate our democracy”, he added.

Speaking on fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution, VP remarked that these rights must be earned through the diligent performance of fundamental and civic duties, “Our constitution has given us fundamental rights but passage to fundamental rights has to be earned and that passage is when you perform fundamental duties, when you perform civic duties.”

Social transformation comes with social harmony, which defines unity in diversity. It converts caste, creed, and religion—the divisive situations—into a force of unity. Let us generate social harmony at all costs.

We are a unique civilization—spiritualistic, religious, and… pic.twitter.com/uYAN4gLK4X

— Vice-President of India (@VPIndia) February 22, 2025

He further expressed his concern over challenges to public order, and called for a change in mindset among citizens, and remarked, “Just imagine, in a country like ours, public order is challenged, public property is burned, people take to agitations where redress lies not on the street, but either in court of law or in theatres of legislature. Time has come for every Indian to assess and audit performance of institutions. Mindset has to be changed, you have to be a very powerful pressure group. You have to ask, your public representatives, the bureaucracy, the executive, are you doing your job? Public representatives are elected through a massive exercise. For what? To engage in debate, dialogue, discussion, work policies for your welfare. Not to disrupt, not to disturb function. Are they really doing it? If they are not performing their job, well you have a job cut out for them because now you have the power of social media.”

Stressing upon the importance of social transformation, Shri Dhankhar expressed that “Social transformation will come when we will have social harmony. Social harmony will define unity in diversity. This will convert our caste, creed, religion, the divisive situations to appear into a force of unity. Let us generate social harmony at all costs. Let us believe in family values, respect our elders, our parents, our neighbours, our neighbourhood. We are a different civilisation.”

Our Constitution grants us Fundamental Rights, but passage to them has to be earned—through fundamental and civic duties.

Imagine a country where public order is challenged, property is burned, and agitations replace lawful redress in courts or legislatures.

Time has come for… pic.twitter.com/0PFJSbm45b

— Vice-President of India (@VPIndia) February 22, 2025

Reflecting on the age-old civilisational ethos of Bharat, Shri Dhankhar remarked, “By nature we are not materialistic, we are spiritualistic, we are religious, we are ethical. We are role model to rest of the world, and that model has been in operation for thousands of years. So please imbibe family values, nurture family values, respect your elders, respect your parents, and that cultural strength will give you stamina to contribute for the nation. A seed of patriotism will automatically blossom.”

राष्ट्र-विरोधी ताकतें, जो हमारे प्रजातांत्रिक मूल्यों पर कुठाराघात करती हैं, संविधान की आत्मा को धूमिल करना चाहती हैं और हमारी संस्थाओं को बदनाम करती हैं—जब वे हमारे मूल आधार पर प्रहार करती हैं, तो उनका प्रतिघात आवश्यक है। यह हर व्यक्ति का कर्तव्य है।… pic.twitter.com/UmYuYs7p8H

— Vice-President of India (@VPIndia) February 22, 2025

The Vice-President also expressed his deep concern over the menace of Climate change and urged the citizens to participate in the clarion call of ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ given by the Prime Minister and strengthen the nation by contributing to the idea of Atmanirbhar Bharat, “Environmental protection, Now we know it, Climate Change menace, the plant is cliffhanging its existential challenge. We don’t have any other place other than mother Earth. We are trustees, we have recklessly exploited it with the result, the danger is blooming, the time bomb is ticking. We have to do our bit. Prime Minister has given a call Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam, If we do it sincerely, and many are doing, in millions they are doing it. It will be a game changer but let us believe in environmental protection. Every nation can be powerful only if it is Aatmanirbhar and for that we must believe in Swadeshi. Let us be vocal about local.”

Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, Governor of Maharashtra & Chancellor of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University, Dr. Bhagwat Karad, MP Rajya Sabha, Prof. Vijay Fulari, Vice-Chancellor of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.

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JK/RC/SM

(Release ID: 2105557) Visitor Counter : 55

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Text of the Vice-President’s address at 65th Convocation of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (Excerpts)

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 22 FEB 2025 7:27PM by PIB Delhi

I’m extremely pleased to be at this university and there are two very special reasons.

One – The name of the university says it all, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University and then, the city where it is located is also very, very significant. These two things define what we stand for. Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj the name we got only recently. Belated, delayed but then reflects changing times that Bharat home to one-sixth of humanity is getting back into its groove. It is on way to securing its glory. I therefore feel privileged to be associated with this great occasion, 65th Convocation of this great university.

In last decade, Bharat has seen growth, exponential economic rise, phenomenal infrastructural upsurge, deep digitalisation, technology penetration of unknown scale globally accoladed. No nation in the world has grown so fast in economy and development in the last decade as Bharat has done. The strides we have made in our economy were beyond contemplation few years back. Our jump from 10th or 11th number in global economy status to 5th and on the way to becoming the third in a year or so ahead of Japan and Germany. This nation therefore is full of hope and possibility. India is no longer a nation with potential, it is a nation on the rise, the rise is unstoppable and the rise is incremental.

Our youth have bountiful opportunity, it is your turn. You are the most important stakeholder in democracy. Our Viksit Bharat is no longer a dream, it is our object. We all are marching towards that object. Some of us will drop on the way on account of age but those before me, young minds, you will be in driver’s seat. You will have to fire on all cylinders the engine of growth. I have no doubt, if not before at 2047 when Bharat celebrates centenary of its independence, India will be a developed nation.

Now let me indicate to you boys and girls, A developed Nation status is globally not defined but if you look around and find the various elements and parameters, the challenge is daunting, but achievable and implementable. We will have to increase our per capita income eightfold and, time therefore for all of us to move fast, move with commitment that commitment requires that we first believe in our Nation. Nation has always to be the first. We cannot keep National interest subservient to personal interest, to partisan interest, to commercial interest. Commitment to Nationalism is non-negotiable because it is directly connected to our freedom.

Therefore I call upon you to make your contributions in a massive way. Now an issue arises. What can individuals do? But let me tell you, individuals define a Nation by their discipline, by their decorum, by being good citizens. But let me indicate to begin with ‘Panch Pran’ and these ‘Panch Pran’ you will find are best in our civilizational ethos. They are essence and if I may say, nectar of our civilizational knowledge and worth, and one is, which is very easy, if we practice. Fact is, we are not practising, we have to practice, believe and work day in and day out.

Social transformation will come when we will have social harmony. Social harmony will define unity in diversity. This will convert our caste, creed, religion, the divisive situations to appear into a force of unity. Let us generate social harmony at all costs. Let us believe in family values, respect our elders, our parents, our neighbours, our neighbourhood. We are a different civilisation, by nature we are not materialistic, we are spiritualistic, we are religious, we are ethical. We are role model to rest of the world, and that model has been in operation for thousands of years. So please imbibe family values, nurture family values, respect your elders, respect your parents, and that cultural strength will give you stamina to contribute for the Nation. A seed of patriotism will automatically blossom. Third, Environmental protection– Now we know it, Climate Change menace, the plant is cliffhanging its existential challenge. धरती माँ के अलावा कोई और स्थान हमारे पास नहीं है। We are trustees, we have recklessly exploited it with the result, the danger is blooming, the time bomb is ticking. We have to do our bit.

Prime Minister has given a call ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’, If we do it sincerely, and many are doing, in millions they are doing it. It will be a game changer but let us believe in environmental protection. Every Nation can be powerful only if it is Aatmanirbhar and for that we must believe in Swadeshi. Let us be Vocal about Local.

Our Constitution has given us fundamental rights but passage to fundamental rights has to be earned and that passage is when you perform fundamental duties, when you perform civic duties. Just imagine, in a country like ours, public order is challenged, public property is burned, people take to agitations where redress lies not on the street, but either in court of law or in theatres of legislature.

Time has come for every Indian to assess and audit performance of institutions. Mindset has to be changed, you have to be a very powerful pressure group. You have to ask, your public representatives, the bureaucracy, the executive, are you doing your job? Public representatives are elected through a massive exercise. For what? To engage in debate, dialogue, discussion, work policies for your welfare. Not to disturb function. Are they really doing it? If they are not performing their job, well you have a job cut out for them because now you have the power of social media.

मेरी दृढ़ मान्यता है कि हमको संकल्प लेना पड़ेगा कि हम सदैव इस बात को याद रखेंगे कि हम भारतीय हैं, भारतीयता हमारी पहचान है, राष्ट्रवाद हमारा धर्म।

राष्ट्र विरोधी ताकतें जो हमारे प्रजातांत्रिक मूल्यों पर कुठाराघात करती हैं, जो हमारे संविधान की आत्मा को धूमेल करना चाहती हैं, जो हमारी संस्थाओं को बदनाम करती हैं, जब वो कुठाराघात हमारे मूल आधार पर करती हैं, ऐसी ताक़तों के ऊपर हमारा प्रतिघात होना चाहिए। ये हर व्यक्ति का कर्तव्य है।

Look around the challenges we are seeing. हमारे भारत में, करोड़ों की संख्या में, ऐसे लोग रह रहे हैं, जिनकों यहां रहने का अधिकार नहीं है। वो किसी न किसी रूप में, अपनी आजीविका का सृजन कर रहे हैं। They are making their livelihood here, they are making demands on our resources, on our education, health sector, housing sector और अब तो बात आगे बढ़ गई है। They are intervening our electoral process. हमारी प्रजातांत्रिक व्यवस्था के अंदर, वो महत्वपूर्ण अंग बनते जा रहे हैं। निर्णायक अंग बनते जा रहे हैं। हम सबका कर्तव्य है, कि हम देश में इस प्रकार की मानसिकता का विस्तार करें। एक ऐसे वातावरण और वायुमंडल का निर्माण करें कि हर भारतीय इस बात के लिए सजग हो जाए।

जब दूसरा देश उन लोगों को यहां भेजता है, अपने देश के कानून के हिसाब से। और वो लोग कौन हैं? हमारे उन लोगों को भ्रमित करकर, लालच दिखाकर, लाभ देकर, उनको ठग कर वहां ले गए। कुछ देशों ने पाया गलत है, वापस भेज दिया पर यह परंपरा दशकों से चल रही है। पर यह काम हम कब शुरू करेंगे? हर भारतीय के मन में यह प्रश्न आना चाहिए, कि हम इसको अति शीघ्र शुरू करेंगे। यह बहुत बड़ी चुनौती हमारे सामने हैं।

एक नई बात और है, हर व्यक्ति का अधिकार है किस धर्म का पालन करे, हर व्यक्ति का अधिकार है मनमर्जी से धर्म अपनाये पर लालच देकर, लोभ by allurement, by temptation conversion होता है और उसका उद्देश्य होता है We will get supremacy by changing demography of the Nation। इतिहास साक्षी है, दुनिया के कुछ देश उदाहरण हैं। आप मेरे से ज्यादा समझदार हैं, जानकार है, पता लगा सकते हैं। देश का रूप ही मिट गया, वहां जो majority community थी, गायब हो गई।

We cannot allow this demography invasion, organic demographic growth is acceptable, but if this is disruptive with the sinister design to control, हमारे कान खड़े हो जाने चाहिए। हमारे लिए चिंतन-मंथन का विषय है। हमारा दर्शन, जो सदियों पुराना है, उसको चुनौती है।

Boys and girls, there is another challenge and please read between the lines, see behind the screen. In a systemic manner. The President is ridiculed, the Prime Minister is ridiculed, my position is ridiculed. Our institutions are tainted. Be it Election Commission or Judiciary. These are activities which are being undertaken by those at their heart, National interest is not there.

Recently, it has been revealed authoritatively that our elections were sought to be doctored, manipulated. ऐसी परिस्थिति में मेरा आग्रह रहेगा हर व्यक्ति से सजग रहे, सोचिए, पर्दाफ़ाश करें। And I appeal to organisations concerned, time has come to engage into deep investigation, thorough investigation at micro level, expose everyone connected with these sinister designs aimed at destabilizing our nation, trying to manipulate our democracy.

****

JK/RC/SM

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Press Release – Young Ocean Ambassador Joins Citizen Science Initiative to Reduce Waste

Source: Government of Western Samoa

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In an inspiring display of community engagement, Conservation International Samoa hosted a citizen science workshop last Thursday, focusing on household waste management audits. The event brought together participants of all ages, including 14-year-old Hanisisevae Vai-Stierman, the Ocean Ambassador for Manta Trust, who shared her enthusiasm for the initiative.

“Today I learnt that a citizen scientist is a non-professional that collects data, makes observations, and analyses, under the guidance of an expert,” said Hanisese. “As part of the Conservation International Citizen Scientist Waste Management Audit, my family is going to collect, weigh, and categorize our household rubbish. I am looking forward to finding out which category of waste my family contributes the most and finding out from experts how we can reduce our waste.”

The workshop was designed to address a growing interest among Samoans to participate in environmental conservation efforts. “Many people want to get involved in protecting our environment, but they don’t always know where to start or how to contribute”, said Le’ausalilo Leilani Duffy – Iosefa, Oceans Director at Conservation International Samoa. “Waste management is something everyone can do, and it provides data that can inform larger environmental strategies.”

The event aligns with Samoa’s Ocean Strategy, which emphasizes sustainable management of ocean resources and reduction of land-based pollution. It featured presentations on the principles of citizen science and practical steps for conducting household waste audits. Participants also took part in a live demonstration of waste auditing techniques and received tools such as scales, trash bags and sanitizers, to conduct their own audits at home and submit their data.

The event also marked a unique approach for Conservation International Samoa, as it was the first time the programme sought participation purely online. It was opened to the public through an online invitation on Facebook, considering anyone with an interest to join. The response highlights a strong interest in citizen science and environmental stewardship among Samoans.

Conservation International Samoa plans to share the data collected by participants with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, to inform future waste reduction strategies and community initiatives. Conservation International would like to acknowledge the support of the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade in making the event possible.

ENDS.

SOURCE – Conservation International Samoa

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February 22, 2025

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Sh. Bhupender Yadav Highlights the Core Values of Leadership at SOUL Leadership Conclave in New Delhi

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 22 FEB 2025 3:49PM by PIB Delhi

Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Bhupender Yadav, delivered an insightful address at the SOUL Leadership Conclave today, focusing on the key elements of effective leadership, self-discipline, and personal growth. In his speech, Yadav emphasized the importance of continuous learning, personal conduct, and philosophical insights in shaping leaders who are committed to the greater good.

Continuous Learning: A Cornerstone of Ultimate Leadership

Shri Bhupender Yadav congratulated the SOUL for its mission to cultivate ultimate leadership. He shared his experience of working with his mentor, who remained dedicated to learning and self-improvement, even in the face of fame and recognition. Sh. Yadav highlighted that leadership is not just about achieving a high position but about consistently learning, evolving, and seeking excellence throughout one’s life.

Union Minister emphasized the importance of humility and the willingness to learn, regardless of one’s age or stage in life. Citing the example of his mentor, Sh. Yadav pointed out that even at the peak of one’s career, the pursuit of knowledge remains vital for personal growth and leadership.

Personal Conduct and Discipline: Building a Strong Foundation for Leadership

The Minister further stressed that leadership is deeply connected to one’s personal conduct and discipline. Drawing inspiration from ancient Indian philosophies, including the Geeta and Patanjali’s Yogasutra, Sh. Yadav explained that true discipline goes beyond external practices and focuses on the balance between the soul, body, and society. He emphasized that discipline is not just about rules, but about aligning one’s inner values with their external actions.

Sh. Yadav also touched upon the significance of adopting a disciplined life to enhance one’s leadership qualities. For example, he explained how Patanjali’s teachings encourage practicing yoga as a means to achieve self-control and inner balance. Through discipline, he said, one could achieve a state of ultimate leadership.

The Power of Mind Control and Practice

Sh. Yadav pointed out that in today’s fast-paced world, it is easy to become distracted by external events and thoughts. However, he stressed that leaders must practice detachment and self-control to maintain focus and calm amidst the chaos of everyday life.

“The body is unrestrained, but practice, only through practice, is what leads to self-mastery,” said Sh. Yadav. He highlighted that, whether in politics, administration, or any other field, one must cultivate the ability to stay grounded and maintain mental clarity. He shared an anecdote to illustrate how people often become distracted by fleeting thoughts and external pressures, but it is through sustained practice that one can truly lead with composure.

Embracing Philosophical Wisdom: The Role of Yoga and Detachment in Leadership

Sh. Yadav further explored the philosophical teachings of Yogasutra, emphasizing that leadership is not only about external achievements but also about one’s inner journey. He discussed the importance of creating a deep, internal relationship with oneself and the world around, which is the essence of leadership.

The Minister cited Patanjali’s principles of practice (Abhyasa) and detachment (Vairagya), pointing out that both are critical to transforming one’s life and achieving success. He explained that detachment does not mean abandoning the world, but rather being unaffected by distractions and external disturbances. Through this approach, leaders can build resilience and inner strength, which are necessary to lead with integrity and purpose.

Friendship, Compassion, and Contribution: The Pillars of Leadership

The Union Minister shared a powerful message on the importance of friendship, compassion, and contributing to society. He emphasized that true leadership is rooted in positive relationships, where leaders not only seek to elevate themselves but also support those around them. “Friendship and compassion are essential qualities for a leader,” he said. “One should always extend compassion to those who are in pain and be mindful of one’s own expectations.”

Sh. Yadav urged the audience to adopt a contributory attitude rather than a competitive one. In his view, contributing positively to society leads to greater fulfillment and personal growth. He shared an insightful thought on the importance of living life with a sense of contribution rather than comparing oneself with others, as true success comes from adding value to the world.

The Path to Ultimate Leadership

Shri Bhupender Yadav concluded his address by reiterating that leadership is a continuous process of growth and transformation. He encouraged the audience, especially the youth, to embrace discipline, philosophical wisdom, and self-control as the foundation of their leadership journey. He emphasized that it is only through consistent practice, detachment from worldly distractions, and contributing to the greater good that one can achieve ultimate leadership.

As he wrapped up his speech, the Minister left the audience with a thought-provoking quote: “To become truly great, one must keep practicing, stay calm amidst chaos, and remain rooted in compassion and contribution.”

The session concluded with an engaging question-answer segment, where participants had the opportunity to interact with the Minister and further explored the concepts of leadership and personal growth.

*****

VM/GS

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hydrogen Zero Carbon STEAM Carnival to be held today and tomorrow (with photos)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Hydrogen Zero Carbon STEAM Carnival to be held today and tomorrow (with photos)
Hydrogen Zero Carbon STEAM Carnival to be held today and tomorrow (with photos)
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The Hydrogen Zero Carbon STEAM Carnival, organised by the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) and co-organised by the Education Bureau (EDB) and the Construction Industry Council – Zero Carbon Park (CIC-ZCP), is being held today and tomorrow (February 22 and 23) at the CIC-ZCP in Kowloon Bay. The carnival integrates educational elements of STEAM in an innovative and interactive way, showcasing the development prospects and potential application of hydrogen technology in all aspects and attracting the participation of young people. Speaking at the opening ceremony today, the Under Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Miss Diane Wong, emphasised that hydrogen energy is a promising zero-carbon energy source with a wide range of applications. The country has clearly positioned hydrogen energy as an important component of the future energy system. Young people are stakeholders in addressing climate change and promoting carbon neutrality. She hoped that students will deepen their understanding of the industry chain, safety and applications of hydrogen energy in Hong Kong through enjoyable educational experiences. The Director of Electrical and Mechanical Services, Mr Poon Kwok-ying, said in his speech that the sustainable development of hydrogen energy requires not only the concerted effort of the Government and industry, but also the support of the public and the younger generation. To this end, the EMSD has arranged for engineers to explain technologies and latest developments of hydrogen energy to teachers and students. In addition, the EMSD has recently collaborated with the EDB to organise the HydroRace Challenge, allowing students to gain first-hand experience on the application of hydrogen energy. The competition received overwhelming responses, with the participation of a total of 67 secondary schools across the territory. Admission to the carnival is free. Activities include hydrogen-themed STEAM workshops, guided tours to the CIC-ZCP STEAM Lab, the display of hydrogen-fuelled street washing vehicles and hydrogen power generators, as well as booth games. For details, please visit the event website www.h2carnival.com.

Ends/Saturday, February 22, 2025Issued at HKT 17:09

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom announces appointments 2.21.25

Source: US State of California 2

Feb 21, 2025

Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:

Bhavana Prakash, of San Jose, has been appointed to the Physician Assistant Board. Prakash has been a Physician Assistant and Program Manager for the Adult Congenital Heart Program at Stanford Children’s Health since 2024 and a Supervising Physician Assistant at The Permanente Medical Group since 2015. She is a member of the American Congenital Heart Association. Prakash earned a Doctor of Medical Science degree from A.T. Still University, a Master of Medical Science degree from Saint Francis University, and a Master of Science degree in Physician Assistant Studies from Stanford University. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem. Prakash is a Democrat.

Joanne Pacheco, of Fresno, has been appointed to the Dental Hygiene Board of California. Pacheco has been Director of the Dental Hygiene Program at Fresno City College since 2017. She is a member of the American Dental Education Association, American Dental Hygienists’ Association, California Dental Hygienists’ Association, and California Dental Hygiene Educators’ Association. Pacheco earned a Master of Arts degree in Organizational Behavior from Alliant International University and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Organizational Development from Fresno Pacific University. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem. Pacheco is a Republican.

Mark Apostolon, of Stockton, has been appointed to the 2nd District Agricultural Association San Joaquin Fair Board. Apostolon has been Vice President of Strategic Innovation at El Concilio California since 2016. He was an Executive Producer for TV Pug Entertainment from 2008 to 2016. He was a Producer for Comcast from 2000 to 2007. He was a Producer for Calliope Films from 1995 to 1999. Apostolon earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Tufts University. He is a member of the San Joaquin County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Lodi Animal Services Foundation, and Gay Men’s Sexual Health Foundation. This position does not require Senate confirmation and there is no compensation. Apostolon is a Democrat.

Kevin Alto, of McKinleyville, has been appointed to the 9th District Agricultural Association Redwood Acres Fair Board. Alto has been President of Kevin Alto Equipment since 1998. This position does not require Senate confirmation and there is no compensation. Alto is a Republican.

Norma Rojas-Mora, of Bakerfield, has been appointed to the 15th District Agricultural Association Kern County Fair Board. Rojas-Mora has been the Associate Vice Chancellor, Public Relations and Development for the Kern Community College District since 2024. She was Executive Director of Government Relations and Development for the Kern Community College District from 2022 to 2024. She was the Director of Communication and Community Relations at Bakersfield College from 2018 to 2022. Rojas-Mora was the Resident Services Director at Kern County Housing Authority from 1998 to 2018. She is a member of Latina Leaders of Kern County, Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, the Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Business Education Foundation, and the Kern County Workforce Development Board. Rojas-Mora earned a Master of Science degree in Administration from the California State University Bakersfield and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology and Chicana/Chicano Studies from UCLA. This position does not require Senate confirmation and there is no compensation. Rojas-Mora is a Democrat.

Emily Schoeder, of Dixon, has been appointed to the 36th District Agricultural Association Dixon May Board. She has been a Legislative Assistant for the California Hospital Association since 2019. She was an Office Assistant at Capitol Partners from 2015 to 2018. She is a board member of the Friends of the Crisis Nurseries, an auxiliary of the Sacramento Children’s Home. This position does not require Senate confirmation and there is no compensation. Schroeder has no party preference.

Elizabeth Lincoln, of Kelseyville, has been appointed to the 49th District Agricultural Association Lake County Fair Board. Lincoln has been the Economic Development Director for the Big Valley Band of Pomo Indians since 2015 and Owner of Indigenous Management Services since 2012. She was a Grant Writer for the Colusa Indian Community from 2009 to 2014. She earned Bachelor of Science degrees in Park Resource Management and Environmental Sciences and Natural Resources from Kansas State University. This position does not require Senate confirmation and there is no compensation. Lincoln is a Democrat.

Press Releases, Recent News

Recent news

Feb 20, 2025

News Sacramento, California –Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Mayumi Kimura, of Temecula, has been appointed Deputy Secretary of Woman Veterans at the California Department of Veterans Affairs. Kimura has been the Founder and Director…

Feb 19, 2025

News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Andrew “Andy” Nakahata, of San Francisco, has been appointed Chief Deputy Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer at the California Infrastructure and Economic Development Bank….

Feb 19, 2025

News What you need to know: A court has denied the city of Norwalk’s request to dismiss the state’s lawsuit against the city for its unlawful ban on homeless shelters. NORWALK — Governor Gavin Newsom issued the following statement in response to a court decision…

MIL OSI USA News –

February 24, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Future blooms bright for rare tree daisy

Source: Department of Conservation

Date: 24 February 2025

The seedlings are the product of a growing partnership between the Department of Conservation and the Department of Corrections.

Commonly known as Gardner’s tree daisy, Olearia gardneri is found in the southern half of the North Island. The small tree is dependent on conservation efforts as its seeds fail to germinate in dense introduced grasses.

Department of Conservation Biodiversity Ranger Lois Allison-Cooper says Olearia gardneri is unique to New Zealand.

“It’s one of our few native deciduous trees, so it looks dead in winter then revives in the warmer weather with small leaves and white flowers.”

“We collected seed from a known population in Paengaroa Scenic Reserve near Taihape – it seems to like shrubby forest edges and semi-permanent pools of water.”

Department of Corrections Horticulture Instructor Murray Nielson says the nursery programme isn’t just benefiting the environment.

“Prisoners working in the nursery are trained to level 2 horticulture, which provides them with skills and qualifications that prepare them for employment upon release. Equally importantly, they relax into the team and the environment. It’s an excellent setting for learning and rehabilitation.”

“The team here take pride in contributing to the conservation outcomes of an incredibly rare tree.”

Lois says the seedlings will remain at the nursery until large enough to survive in the wild, where they’ll grow to be up to 3 metres tall.

“The seedlings will give the wild population a real boost, we’re fortunate to have this relationship with Corrections.”

Olearia gardneri is threatened by habitat loss, animal browsing, introduced weeds, and a lack of seedling recruitment.

Contact

For media enquiries contact:

Email: media@doc.govt.nz

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

February 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Sea-level rise: a new method to estimate the probability of different outcomes – including a worst case

Source: The Conversation – France – By Benjamin P. Horton, Director of the Earth Observatory of Singapore, Nanyang Technological University

Here is a depressing fact: over the coming decades, sea-level rise will continue to threaten ecosystems, communities and cities. No matter how quickly we reduce our carbon emissions, our past emissions commit us to ongoing sea-level rise, given the long-drawn-out impact of climate warming on the oceans and ice sheets. Just how bad it gets, however, will depend on our current and future emissions.

Even as we strive for net-zero emissions, we must prepare for devastating possibilities. But decision-makers face a major obstacle: the specific rate and magnitude of future sea-level rise is deeply uncertain. Different methods produce different projections of long-term sea-level rise. The problem of reconciling these different methods and projections has undermined planning to protect people from future sea-level rise.

In a recent paper published in Earth’s Future, we and our colleagues tackle this problem. We propose a new method that combines the complementary strengths of different sea-level projections. We use our method to quantify the uncertainty of future sea-level rise. It allows us to estimate a “very likely” range. “Very likely” means that there is a 9-in-10 chance (90% probability) that future sea-level rise will lie within this range, if our future emissions follow an assumed emissions scenario.

Under a low-emissions scenario that corresponds to approximately 2°C warming above pre-industrial levels, global sea level will “very likely” rise between 0.3 and 1.0 metres by the end of this century. Under a high-emissions scenario that corresponds to approximately 5°C warming, global sea level will “very likely” rise between 0.5 and 1.9 metres. Given that we will likely exceed 2°C warming, preparing for more than a metre of sea-level rise by 2100 is, therefore, necessary.

Adapted from Grandey et al. (2024).
Benjamin P. Horton and Benjamin S. Grandey, CC BY-ND

The challenge of poorly understood processes

Our method builds on and complements the current reference document for many decision-makers: the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s Sixth Assessment Report IPCC 6AR. For five emissions scenarios, the IPCC published a most-likely “median” projection and a “likely” range. “Likely” means that there is at least a 2-in-3 chance (66% probability) of sea-level rise within this range. The “likely” range may understate the risk of more extreme possibilities, a weakness that can be addressed by a complementary “very likely” range. However, the IPCC did not estimate a “very likely” range because poorly understood ice sheet processes posed a challenge. We address this challenge, to provide decision-makers with more reliable estimates of future possibilities.

Many processes contribute to sea-level rise. Of particular importance are ice sheet processes in Greenland and Antarctica. Some of these ice sheet processes are well understood, but others less so. We have only a poor understanding of processes that could drive abrupt melting of ice, producing rapid sea-level rise.

À lire aussi :
We used 1,000 historical photos to reconstruct Antarctic glaciers before a dramatic collapse

Climate models and ice sheet models, such as those used in the IPCC 6AR, are very good at simulating well-understood processes, such as thermal expansion of the ocean. The IPCC used model-based projections to derive a reliable median projection and “likely” range. However, these models often neglect poorly understood processes that could cause the ice sheets to melt much faster than we expect. To complement the models, experts can provide alternative projections based on their understanding of these processes. This is known as expert elicitation. Therefore, the use of models and expert elicitation can provide complementary sea-level projections, but planners have great difficulty deciding when and where to apply the two different approaches.

In our paper, we have developed a novel method to combine the complementary sea-level projections from models and experts. We use our method to quantify the full uncertainty range of future sea-level rise using a probability distribution. This is how we can estimate a “very likely” range and explore the question, “What high-end sea-level rise should we plan for?”

A high-end projection

To make informed judgements, decision-makers often need information about low-likelihood, high-cost possibilities. A high-end projection of sea-level rise is especially useful when planning long-lasting critical infrastructure that is vital for the functioning of society and the economy. A high-end projection can also highlight a catastrophic risk associated with unrestrained carbon dioxide emissions.

We define our high-end projection as the 95th percentile of the probability distribution under the high-emissions scenario. Our high-end projection of global sea-level rise is 1.9 metres by the end of this century.

Our high-end projection complements existing high-end projections of 21st century sea-level rise. The IPCC 6AR included two: 1.6 metres and 2.3 metres. Our projection of 1.9 metres falls between these two values.

In contrast to the IPCC 6AR, we estimate the probability of reaching the high-end projection. If our future emissions follow the high-emissions scenario, we estimate that the probability of reaching 1.9 metres by the end of this century is 5% (1 in 20). Considering that the high-emissions scenario is unlikely, our high-end projection can be interpreted as a worst-case outcome. We also estimate the probability of exceeding 1.0 metres by the end of this century: 16% (about 1 in 6) under the high-emissions scenario, and 4% (1 in 25) under the low-emissions scenario.

Reducing the uncertainty

Through climate science, we have learned much about the Earth’s climate system. However, we still have much more to discover. As our understanding improves, the uncertainty in sea-level rise should reduce. Therefore, the “very likely” range of future sea-level rise should narrow, due to the ongoing research efforts of the climate science community.

In the meantime, we need to identify potential solutions that can reduce coastal flood risk in ways that support the long-term resilience and sustainability of communities and the environment, and reduce the economic costs associated with flood damage. Alongside local adaptation, the best way to mitigate sea-level rise is to slow down climate change by implementing the commitments laid out in the Paris Agreement in 2015.

If we can limit warming to well below 2°C, consistent with the agreement, we estimate that the probability of reaching 1.9 metres by the end of the century shrinks to less than 0.2% (1 in 500). The more the world limits its greenhouse gas emissions, the lower the chance of triggering rapid ice loss from Greenland and Antarctica, and the safer we will be.

This research is supported by the National Research Foundation, Singapore, and National Environment Agency, Singapore under the National Sea Level Programme Funding Initiative (Award No. USS-IF-2020-3) and Ministry of Education, Singapore, under its AcRF Tier 3 Award MOE2019-T3-1-004.

Created in 2007 to help accelerate and share scientific knowledge on key societal issues, the Axa Research Fund has supported nearly 700 projects around the world conducted by researchers in 38 countries. To learn more, visit the website of the Axa Research Fund or follow @AXAResearchFund on X.

Benjamin P. Horton was supported by the Singapore Ministry of Education Academic Research Fund: MOE2019-T3-1-004.

Benjamin S. Grandey’s research is supported by the National Research Foundation, Singapore, and National Environment Agency, Singapore under the National Sea Level Programme Funding Initiative (Award No. USS-IF-2020-3).

– ref. Sea-level rise: a new method to estimate the probability of different outcomes – including a worst case – https://theconversation.com/sea-level-rise-a-new-method-to-estimate-the-probability-of-different-outcomes-including-a-worst-case-250180

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

February 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Pillen Reacts to EPA Confirmation to Keep Date for Implementation of E15 Access

Source: US State of Nebraska

. Pillen Reacts to EPA Confirmation to Keep Date for Implementation of E15 Access

LINOLN, NE – Reassuring news this week for Nebraska motorists and corn growers. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has confirmed its intent to uphold the current April 28, 2025 implementation date for year-round access to E15. Nebraska is among eight states that had long been fighting a summertime ban on the higher ethanol blend. Last year, the EPA issued its final rule, a significant win for Nebraska and other ethanol-producing states.

“Nebraska is in a leading position to reap the benefits of E-15, both from the production as well as the consumer side. This is a significant step forward in growing our state’s ag and biofuels economy,” said Gov. Pillen.

In a release from the EPA, Administrator Lee Zeldin stated: “Today’s decision underscores EPA’s commitment to consumer access to E15 while ensuring a smooth transition for fuel suppliers and refiners.”

MIL OSI USA News –

February 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Boosting conservation efforts via AI

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

Fung Yuen, located in the suburbs of Tai Po and approximately 2km from the town centre, is one of the 12 priority sites for enhanced conservation under the Government’s New Nature Conservation Policy.

The Environmental Association manages Fung Yuen Butterfly Reserve, providing a suitable habitat for butterflies.

Initially, Fung Yuen hosted about 70 to 80 butterfly species. Over the past 20 years, this number has increased to over 220 species, representing approximately 90% of all butterfly species present in Hong Kong.

Revolutionising conservation

In addition to continuing its conservation efforts, the association has decided to incorporate smart technology to enhance such initiatives.

Environmental Association Chief Executive Officer Yau Wing-kwong noted that Hong Kong is home to over 200 butterfly species, each having a distinct appearance. Some of the species even look different between dry and wet seasons. As such, accurately identifying these species by visual comparison with reference books is challenging, prompting the introduction of an artificial intelligence (AI) system.

Currently in its early stage, the system can identify 10 butterfly species, including Danaus genutia, with high accuracy. The association aims to expand its capabilities to recognise 245 species within two years.

Mr Yau stated that the system will be made public once it operates smoothly, allowing citizens to upload photos of butterflies from the suburbs to identify their species and obtain related information instantly.

He said: “At a later stage, the system will be used for conservation analysis. That means we can put a camera in butterfly gardens that we developed, and then the camera will capture images of butterflies. The system will then tell us how many species have been there, and their relationship to the plants and to the environment.

“And it will help us in the future with how we do the conservation work with even better efficiency and less manpower.”

Critical funding

The Environmental Association has received funding from the Environment & Conservation Fund and the Countryside Conservation Funding Scheme successively to implement the Nature Conservation Management Agreement Project in Fung Yuen.

Furthermore, the AI butterfly identification system is also funded by the latest round of the Countryside Conservation Funding Scheme.

Mr Yau expressed gratitude to the Government for its ongoing support.

“Conservation works actually need money and resources. We appreciate the Government’s efforts in providing all these resources, both in monetary terms and support.”

Established in 2018, the Countryside Conservation Office under the Environment & Ecology Bureau co-ordinates and promotes sustainable development in remote countryside areas.

In October 2019, the office launched the Countryside Conservation Funding Scheme, which approved 50 projects with total funding of approximately $270 million by the end of 2024.

High-quality habitats

Environment & Ecology Bureau Countryside Conservation Manager Matthew Tang outlined that the approved projects encompass various topics, including nature conservation and countryside revitalisation. Notably, the nature conservation management agreement projects protect approximately 560 hectares of wetlands and about 10 hectares of traditional farmland, creating suitable habitats for diverse species.

Mr Tang also highlighted the importance of such projects.

“These conservation projects not only maintain a stable number of species in the conservation sites but also continue to record protected species and new species, reflecting that the projects have effectively enhanced the ecological value of the conservation sites.”

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA News: America First Investment Policy

Source: The White House

class=”has-text-align-left”>MEMORANDUM FOR THE SECRETARY OF THE TREASURY
THE SECRETARY OF STATE
THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE
THE ATTORNEY GENERAL
THE SECRETARY OF COMMERCE
THE SECRETARY OF LABOR
THE SECRETARY OF ENERGY
THE SECRETARY OF HOMELAND SECURITY
THE ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
THE DIRECTOR OF THE OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT AND BUDGET
THE DIRECTOR OF NATIONAL INTELLIGENCE
THE UNITED STATES TRADE REPRESENTATIVE
THE CHAIRMAN OF THE COUNCIL OF ECONOMIC ADVISERS
THE DIRECTOR OF THE OFFICE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY
THE ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT FOR NATIONAL SECURITY AFFAIRS
THE DIRECTOR OF THE FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

SUBJECT:       America First Investment Policy

By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, I hereby direct the following:

Section 1. Principles and Objectives. America’s investment policy is critical to our national and economic security. Welcoming foreign investment and strengthening the United States’ world-leading private and public capital markets will be a key part of America’s Golden Age. The United States has the world’s most attractive assets, in technology and across our economy, and we will make it easier for our overseas allies to support United States jobs, United States innovators, and United States economic growth with their capital.

Investment by United States allies and partners can create hundreds of thousands of jobs and significant wealth for the United States. Our Nation is committed to maintaining the strong, open investment environment that benefits our economy and our people, while enhancing our ability to protect the United States from new and evolving threats that can accompany foreign investment.

Investment at all costs is not always in the national interest, however. Certain foreign adversaries, including the People’s Republic of China (PRC), systematically direct and facilitate investment in United States companies and assets to obtain cutting-edge technologies, intellectual property, and leverage in strategic industries. The PRC pursues these strategies in diverse ways, both visible and concealed, and often through partner companies or investment funds in third countries.

Economic security is national security. The PRC does not allow United States companies to take over their critical infrastructure, and the United States should not allow the PRC to take over United States critical infrastructure. PRC-affiliated investors are targeting the crown jewels of United States technology, food supplies, farmland, minerals, natural resources, ports, and shipping terminals.

The PRC is also increasingly exploiting United States capital to develop and modernize its military, intelligence, and other security apparatuses, which poses significant risk to the United States homeland and Armed Forces of the United States around the world. Related actions include the development and deployment of dual-use technologies, weapons of mass destruction, advanced conventional weapons, and malicious cyber‑enabled actions against the United States and its people. Through its national Military-Civil Fusion strategy, the PRC increases the size of its military-industrial complex by compelling civilian Chinese companies and research institutions to support its military and intelligence activities.

Those Chinese companies also raise capital by: selling to American investors securities that trade on American and foreign public exchanges; lobbying United States index providers and funds to include these securities in market offerings; and engaging in other acts to ensure access to United States capital and accompanying intangible benefits. In this way, the PRC exploits United States investors to finance and advance the development and modernization of its military.

Sec. 2. Policy. (a) It is the policy of the United States to preserve an open investment environment to help ensure that artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies of the future are built, created, and grown right here in the United States. Investment in our economy from our allies and partners, some of whom have tremendous sovereign wealth funds, supports the national interest. My Administration will make the United States the world’s greatest destination for investment dollars, to the benefit of all of us.

(b) Yet for investment in United States businesses involved in critical technology, critical infrastructure, personal data, and other sensitive areas, restrictions on foreign investors’ access to United States assets will ease in proportion to their verifiable distance and independence from the predatory investment and technology-acquisition practices of the PRC and other foreign adversaries or threat actors.

(c) The United States will create an expedited “fast-track” process, based on objective standards, to facilitate greater investment from specified allied and partner sources in United States businesses involved with United States advanced technology and other important areas. This process will allow for increased foreign investment subject to appropriate security provisions, including requirements that the specified foreign investors avoid partnering with United States foreign adversaries.

(d) My Administration will also expedite environmental reviews for any investment over $1 billion in the United States.

(e) The United States will reduce the exploitation of public and private sector capital, technology, and technical knowledge by foreign adversaries such as the PRC. The United States will establish new rules to stop United States companies and investors from investing in industries that advance the PRC’s national Military-Civil Fusion strategy and stop PRC-affiliated persons from buying up critical American businesses and assets, allowing only those investments that serve American interests.

(f) The United States will use all necessary legal instruments, including the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS), to restrict PRC-affiliated persons from investing in United States technology, critical infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture, energy, raw materials, or other strategic sectors. My Administration will protect United States farmland and real estate near sensitive facilities. It will also seek, including in consultation with the Congress, to strengthen CFIUS authority over “greenfield” investments, to restrict foreign adversary access to United States talent and operations in sensitive technologies (especially artificial intelligence), and to expand the remit of “emerging and foundational” technologies addressable by CFIUS.

(g) To reduce uncertainty for investors, reduce administrative burden, and increase Government efficiency, my Administration will cease the use of overly bureaucratic, complex, and open-ended “mitigation” agreements for United States investments from foreign adversary countries. In general, mitigation agreements should consist of concrete actions that companies can complete within a specific time, rather than perpetual and expensive compliance obligations. More administrative resources, in turn, will be directed toward facilitating investments from key partner countries.

(h) The United States will continue to welcome and encourage passive investments from all foreign persons. These include non-controlling stakes and shares with no voting, board, or other governance rights and that do not confer any managerial influence, substantive decisionmaking, or non-public access to technologies or technical information, products, or services. This will allow our cutting-edge businesses to continue to benefit from foreign investment capital, while ensuring protection of our national security.

(i) The United States will also use all necessary legal instruments to further deter United States persons from investing in the PRC’s military-industrial sector. These may include the imposition of sanctions under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) through the blocking of assets or through other actions, including actions pursuant to Executive Order 13959 of November 12, 2020 (Addressing the Threat From Securities Investments That Finance Communist Chinese Military Companies), as amended by Executive Order 13974 of January 13, 2021 (Amending Executive Order 13959 — Addressing the Threat From Securities Investments That Finance Communist Chinese Military Companies) and Executive Order 14032 of June 3, 2021 (Addressing the Threat From Securities Investments That Finance Certain Companies of the People’s Republic of China), and actions pursuant to Executive Order 14105 of August 9, 2023 (Addressing United States Investments in Certain National Security Technologies and Products in Countries of Concern). Executive Order 14105 is under review by my Administration, pursuant to the Presidential Memorandum of January 20, 2025 (America First Trade Policy), to examine whether it includes sufficient controls to address national security threats.

(j) This review will build on measures taken under my authority in 2020 and 2021 and consider new or expanded restrictions on United States outbound investment in the PRC in sectors such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence, quantum, biotechnology, hypersonics, aerospace, advanced manufacturing, directed energy, and other areas implicated by the PRC’s national Military-Civil Fusion strategy. Covered sectors should be reviewed and updated regularly, including by the Office of Science and Technology Policy. As part of the review, my Administration will consider applying restrictions on investment types including private equity, venture capital, greenfield investments, corporate expansions, and investments in publicly traded securities, from sources including pension funds, university endowments, and other limited-partner investors. It is past time for American universities to stop supporting foreign adversaries with their investment decisions, much as they should stop granting university access to supporters of terrorism.

(k) To further reduce incentives for United States persons to invest in our foreign adversaries, we will review whether to suspend or terminate the 1984 United States-The People’s Republic of China Income Tax Convention. That tax treaty, along with the PRC’s admission to the World Trade Organization and the related undertaking by the United States to accord unconditional Most Favored Nation treatment to goods and services of the PRC, led to the deindustrialization of the United States and the technological modernization of the PRC military. We will seek to reverse both those trends. United States investors will invest in the future of America, not the future of the PRC.

(l) To protect the savings of United States investors and channel them into American growth and prosperity, my Administration will also:

(i)    determine if adequate financial auditing standards are upheld for companies covered by the Holding Foreign Companies Accountable Act;

(ii)   review the variable interest entity and subsidiary structures used by foreign-adversary companies to trade on United States exchanges, which limit the ownership rights and protections for United States investors, as well as allegations of fraudulent behavior by these companies; and

(iii) restore the highest fiduciary standards as required by the Employee Retirement Security Act of 1974, seeking to ensure that foreign adversary companies are ineligible for pension plan contributions.

Sec. 3. Implementation. The policy set forth in section 2 of this memorandum shall be implemented, to the extent permitted by law and available appropriations, and subject to internal programmatic and budgetary processes, as follows:

(a) With respect to sections 2(a) through 2(k) of this memorandum, the Secretary of the Treasury, in consultation with the Secretary of State, the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of Commerce, the United States Trade Representative, and the heads of other executive departments and agencies (agencies) as deemed appropriate by the Secretary of the Treasury, and with respect to the authorities of CFIUS in coordination with the members thereof, shall take such actions, including the promulgation of rules and regulations, to support all powers granted to the President by IEEPA, section 721 of the Defense Production Act of 1950, as amended, and other statutes to carry out the purposes of this memorandum.

(b) With respect to section 2(d) of this memorandum, the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, in consultation with the heads of other agencies as appropriate, shall carry out the purposes of this memorandum.

(c) With respect to section 2(l)(i) of this memorandum, the Secretary of the Treasury shall engage as appropriate with the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board; with respect to section 2(l)(ii) of this memorandum, the Attorney General, in coordination with the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, shall provide a written recommendation on the risk posed to United States investors based on the auditability, corporate oversight, and evidence of criminal or civil fraudulent behavior for all foreign adversary companies currently listed on domestic exchanges; and with respect to section 2(l)(iii) of this memorandum, the Secretary of Labor shall publish updated fiduciary standards under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 for investments in public market securities of foreign adversary companies.

Sec. 4. Definition. For purposes of this memorandum, the term “foreign adversaries” includes the PRC, including the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the Macau Special Administrative Region; the Republic of Cuba; the Islamic Republic of Iran; the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea; the Russian Federation; and the regime of Venezuelan politician Nicolás Maduro.

Sec. 5. General Provisions. (a) Nothing in this memorandum shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:

   (i.) the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or

   (ii.) the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.

(b) This memorandum shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.

(c) This memorandum is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.

MIL OSI USA News –

February 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Wyden, Colleagues Reintroduce Bill to Combat Intensifying Wildfires and Drought Across the American West
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)

February 21, 2025

Protect the West Act would invest $60 Billion to reduce wildfire risk, restore watersheds, protect communities, and reduce wildfire suppression costs.

Washington D.C.—U.S. Senator Ron Wyden said today he has joined Senate colleagues to reintroduce legislation that would make a $60 billion investment in forests in Oregon and across the West to lessen wildfire risk, restore watersheds, protect communities, and reduce wildfire suppression costs.

“With summers getting drier and hotter, the treasured lands in Oregon and the West are a tinderbox waiting to light ablaze,” said Wyden. “In my town halls, I’ve heard countless Oregonians fearing for their health and safety while struggling to maintain their economic livelihood as severe drought and wildfires wreak more havoc on their communities every year. More investments are needed to protect our forests and watersheds so local communities across the West are healthy and can have the opportunity to explore its beautiful natural treasures for generations.”

America’s forests and public lands are essential infrastructure – supporting a $1.2 trillion outdoor recreation economy and $222 billion agricultural economy.

Despite the importance of our forests to our economy, watersheds, and way of life, Washington DC has failed to adequately invest in them. The federal government spends $2.9 billion to put out wildfires every year, with costs expected to rise to $3.9 billion by 2050. Preventing wildfires before they start saves taxpayers money by reducing response and recovery costs. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration estimates that, over the last five years, the U.S. spent nearly $48 billion on wildfires. Barely three months into 2025, annual wildfire costs are already estimated to exceed $250 billion in damages due to the Los Angeles wildfires.

Specifically, the Protect the West Act would do the following:
1. Establish an Outdoor Restoration & Watershed Fund to increase support for local efforts to restore forests and watersheds, reduce wildfire risk, clean up public lands, enhance wildlife habitat, remove invasive species, and expand outdoor access;
1. Establish an advisory council of local, industry, conservation, Tribal, and national experts to advise funding priorities, coordinate with existing regional efforts, and provide oversight;
1. Empower local leaders by making $20 billion directly available to state and local governments, Tribes, special districts, and nonprofits to support restoration, drought resilience, and fire mitigation projects. These funds would empower local leaders to bring diverse voices to the table to develop solutions;
1. Partner with states and Tribes to invest $40 billion to tackle the backlog of restoration, fire mitigation, and resilience projects across public, private, and Tribal lands;
1. Create or sustain more than two million good-paying jobs, primarily in rural areas, to support existing industries like forest product, agriculture, and outdoor recreation; and
1. Save landowners and local governments money by investing in wildfire prevention and natural hazard mitigation on the front end, which is thirty times more cost-effective than recovering forests and watersheds after natural disasters have struck.
In addition to Wyden, the legislation was reintroduced by U.S. Senators Michael Bennet, D-Colo., John Hickenlooper, D-Colo., Ruben Gallego, D-Ari., Jacky Rosen, D-Nev., and U.S. Representative Jason Crow, D-Colo.

The bill is supported by The National Wildlife Federation, the Southern Ute Indian Tribe, National Association of State Foresters, The Freshwater Trust, American Forests, National Wild Turkey Federation, National Audubon Society, Family Farm Alliance, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, Western Landowners Alliance, Western Resource Advocates, Trout Unlimited, and Conservation Legacy.

The full text of the bill is here.
MIL OSI USA News –
February 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Labrador Letter – DOGE’ing the Collapse of our Republic

Source: US State of Idaho

Dear Friends,
This past month has been a remarkable period in our national history. The new Department of Government Efficiency, known colloquially as DOGE, has uncovered waste, inefficiency and corruption at unprecedented levels and in every agency examined so far.
USAID, the United States Agency for International Development, has been at the center of this first round of audits. From DEI projects in Serbia to transgender operas and comic books in South America, to tourism promotion in Egypt and sex changes in Vietnam, the USAID projects appear to lack both fiscal restraint and accountability. Tens of millions, hundreds of millions, even billions of taxpayer dollars are being carelessly thrown at projects around the globe without consideration for our national security, priorities, or strategic interests. USAID resources have even ended up in the hands of designated terrorist organizations like Hezbollah.
Other upcoming audits include FEMA, which recently sent $59 million to New York City to house illegal immigrants in luxury hotels instead of providing disaster relief in North Carolina. Also being examined is the Pentagon, which failed its seventh straight audit last year. Another essential audit will be the Department of the Treasury, which issues every government check. Following the money is critical in any competent review.
Those reviews recently uncovered that the Environmental Protection Agency recklessly distributed $20 billion to outside financial institutions in the final hours of the Biden Administration, just to get the money off the books. Just this week, it was discovered that two billion of those dollars were given to an organization connected to die-hard Biden supporter and two-time failed Georgia democratic gubernatorial candidate, Stacey Abrams, for “climate change.” One Biden-appointed bureaucrat confided that it was, “throwing gold bars off the Titanic.”
These audits aren’t without controversy for some. Seventy-seven million Americans who voted for President Trump may cheer the well-advertised reckoning that was promised daily in his campaign to root out government fraud and waste. Others have expressed concerns that their private data may be accessed by enthusiastic auditors.
Unsurprisingly, the oversight bureaucracies previously set up to find fraud appear to be disinterested, at best, and complicit, at worst. Instead of investigating the billions of dollars wasted, they repeat the talking points of the coordinated efforts opposing the Trump Administration’s in-depth review. They say that unelected and “unvetted” bureaucrats, specifically Elon Musk and the DOGE team, might access their social security and tax data, and that unelected people just aren’t accountable.
Having spent four terms in Congress representing Idaho, I can say confidently there are exactly 537 elected people in your entire federal government: 435 Congressmen, 100 Senators, the Vice-President, and the President. That’s it! Everyone else is an unelected bureaucrat — from the agency heads to the generals, all the way to the accountants who currently have access to your personal data — well over two million government workers in total. I have to admit that I am amused by the Left’s newfound skepticism of unelected bureaucrats. Welcome to my side. In reality, if these groups are concerned about DOGE, it’s because of what Elon Musk and his team are likely to uncover and not the fact they are unelected.
This isn’t a partisan issue, or at least it shouldn’t be. We as taxpayers have a very vested interest in where our money is going and why. No single political party has a monopoly on improper spending. Waste and corruption have occurred across many administrations, Republican and Democrat alike. Those who have taken advantage of the system to enrich themselves or others need to be held accountable, regardless of any party affiliation. I have confidence that accountability will happen under these audits, and it hints at why there was such unnaturally visceral opposition to President Trump, even before DOGE was a common term.
As your Attorney General, my office is monitoring the situation closely in the interest of Idahoans. While I am confident that no Idaho laws are being broken, I will stand up for the protection of Idahoans’ information and privacy. At the same time, I will also stand up against the corruption and waste in our federal government. Those two goals are not in conflict at all. We absolutely can and should do both.
President Trump was very clear about his promise to audit how the federal government spends money, and his appointed team is carrying that promise out. Those weren’t just empty words on a campaign stage. People aren’t used to politicians keeping promises and it likely shocks some people.
But that shock is something we as a nation must work through. Our Republic is strong enough to ask hard questions and demand hard answers, because that’s how we grow, adapt, and improve. Change is uncomfortable, even painful. But the slow decay of disinterest is terminal. We need to see these audits through. America’s best years are ahead of us, and we need to push forward to get there.
Alexander Fraser Tytler, a Scottish author and jurist, wrote:
“A Democracy cannot exist as a permanent form of government. It can only exist until the voters discover that they can vote themselves largesse [money] from the public treasury. From that moment on, the majority always votes for the candidate promising the most benefit from the public treasury, with the result that democracy always collapses over a loose fiscal policy, always followed by a dictatorship.”
We simply cannot allow the loose fiscal policy Tytler warned against to collapse our country. Our nation must stand strong against the graft and self-interest of bureaucrats and technocrats and reclaim the authority of our national checkbook – not to vote ourselves money, but to ensure that money spent is in the very best interests of America and Americans. This will require restraint, vigilance, and discipline.
To avoid the dangers of a direct democracy and the temptation to vote ourselves money from the public treasury, our Founders wisely gifted us with a Constitutional Republic. As your Attorney General, I’ll fight with all my might to keep it and will support President Trump’s efforts to rein in government fraud, waste and abuse.

Best regards,
Not yet subscribed to the Labrador Letter? Click HERE to get our weekly newsletter and updates. Miss an issue? Labrador Letters are archived on the Attorney General website.

MIL OSI USA News –

February 22, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: More funding for biodiversity protection

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government is boosting investment in the QEII National Trust to reinforce the protection of Aotearoa New Zealand’s biodiversity on private land, Conservation Minister Tama Potaka says.
The Government today announced an additional $4.5 million for conservation body QEII National Trust over three years.
QEII Trust works with farmers and landowners who voluntarily set aside permanently protected areas including forests and wetlands on private property using covenants.
“Many of our most at-risk plants and animals are found on private land,” Mr Potaka says. “Landowners provide a significant contribution to conservation efforts through additional planting, pest control, and fencing work.
“The QEII Trust has proven extremely effective in collaborating to protect these crucial habitats, particularly in lowland and coastal zones where much of our threatened biodiversity exists.
“This funding increase acknowledges the Trust’s excellent track record and growing demand from landowners to protect special areas of bush, wetland, and biodiversity for future generations,” Mr Potaka says.
This brings the Trust’s total annual funding from the Government to just under $5.8 million per year for the next three years.
“For nearly half a century, QEII Trust has worked with landowners, councils and others to protect over 187,000 hectares of land in 5,200 covenanted areas – you could think of it as about 187,000 rugby fields.
“I’m also pleased to announce a one-off funding injection of $750,000 over three years for the Maungatautari Ecological Island Trust Sanctuary.
“The Sanctuary – a popular tourist destination in the Waikato region – is home to native kākāpō, Mahoenui giant wētā, takahē, banded kōkopu, giant kōkopu (native NZ fish) and tuna (longfin eel).
“I’m confident this funding will help the Sanctuary continue their work with our precious native species.
“Kia kaha te mahi tahi. We all have a role to play in looking after Aotearoa New Zealand’s incredible and vulnerable nature.”

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

February 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Governor Stein, North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality Announce $265M for Drinking Water and Wastewater Projects Statewide
Source: US State of North Carolina

Headline: Governor Stein, North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality Announce $265M for Drinking Water and Wastewater Projects Statewide

Governor Stein, North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality Announce $265M for Drinking Water and Wastewater Projects Statewide
lsaito
Fri, 02/21/2025 – 15:16

Raleigh, NC
Governor Josh Stein announced today that communities statewide will receive more than $265 million in funding for drinking water and wastewater infrastructure projects. These loans and grants will help to pay for 99 projects in 45 different counties. The awards include funding to address emerging contaminants (PFAS) and identify and replace lead pipes.

“When we invest in our infrastructure, we build a stronger and safer state for every North Carolinian,” said Governor Josh Stein. “This funding will help ensure more North Carolinians have access to safe and clean drinking water and will strengthen our communities for decades to come.”

“Every family expects and deserves clean water when they turn on the tap,” said DEQ Secretary Reid Wilson. “These investments will provide critical infrastructure to help improve public health and quality of life for North Carolinians in communities large and small across our state.”

Notable projects include:
- Kings Mountain (Gaston County) will receive $2 million in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Drinking Water funds for a lead and copper service line replacement project.
- The Town of Fair Bluff (Columbus County) will receive $1 million in Drinking Water State Revolving Loan Funds for construction of a well outside the 500-year floodplain, with connection to the water system via approximately 4,000 linear feet of waterline. This will replace a well that was damaged in Hurricanes Florence and Matthew.
- The Town of Nags Head (Dare County) will receive $500,000 in Clean Water State Revolving Loan Funds to finance repairs and replacements to approximately 400 malfunctioning residential septic systems. This is the first award from the Decentralized Wastewater Treatment System Pilot Program.
- New Hanover County will receive $3 million in funding from the Community Development Block Grant-Infrastructure program to install 1.3 miles of water lines and connect 50 occupied residential units to the water system.
- The Town of River Bend (Craven County) will receive $10.4 million in Drinking Water State Revolving Loan Funds to complete improvements to water treatment systems and water supply wells.
- Columbus County Water District IV will receive $15 million in Drinking Water State Revolving Loan Funds to install one 250,000-gallon elevated water tank, a booster pump station, a deep-water supply well, and to extend waterlines to serve more than 500 residences in the Waccamaw Siouan Tribal Area.
- Roanoke Rapids Sanitary District (Halifax County) will receive $5 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding for Emerging Contaminants to begin work on constructing a post-filter granular activated carbon adsorption facility to remove PFAS from its drinking water.
- Bessemer City (Gaston County) will receive $2.5 million in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law – Lead Service Line Replacement funds to replace approximately 150 galvanized water service lines with new water service lines, from the water main to the homes.
- A list of all projects selected for funding is available on the Department of Environmental Quality website.
The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ)’s Division of Water Infrastructure reviewed 203 eligible applications, which requested a total of $1.63 billion. The State Water Infrastructure Authority approved the awards during its Feb. 19 meeting.

Funding this round came from the Drinking Water (DWSRF) and Clean Water (CWSRF) State Revolving Loan Funds, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Emerging Contaminants funds, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Lead Service Line Replacement fund, the Drinking Water and Wastewater State Reserves, the Viable Utilities Reserve, and the Community Development Block Grant-Infrastructure (CDBG-I) program. Projects funded with Viable Utility Reserve funds are subject to approval by the Local Government Commission. The upcoming Spring 2025 funding applications for drinking water, wastewater, lead service line, and emerging contaminants projects opens on March 4 and ends on April 30 by 5 p.m. Funding application training for this round will be provided between March 4 and March 12 through four in-person statewide sessions and a recorded virtual option.

The State Water Infrastructure Authority is an independent body with primary responsibility for awarding federal and state funding for water infrastructure projects. NCDEQ also administers emergency funding for communities in western North Carolina to repair and build resilience into drinking water and wastewater systems damaged by Tropical Storm Helene. Local governments can request emergency funding from the Division of Water Infrastructure directly by contacting Cathy.Akroyd@deq.nc.gov.
Feb 21, 2025

MIL OSI USA News –
February 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Text of the Vice-President’s Address at the Valedictory Function of the 5th Rajya Sabha Internship Program (Excerpts)

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 21 FEB 2025 8:42PM by PIB Delhi

We are living in times where challenges are enormous, so are the opportunities. You have seen in last decade exponential economic upsurge, phenomenal infrastructure growth, deep digitisation, technology penetration, transparency and accountability being taken care of by technological aspect of service delivery, people-centric policies reaching out those in the last line.

Therefore, people of the country have tasted development as never before and the Nation in last decade has been one of the Nations at the peak in the world that has seen such kind of rise. This has given a great challenge because Bharat today is the most aspirational Nation in the world.

Commit to Nationalism should never be compromised, no interest whatsoever, and whatever be the compelling circumstances, however compulsive and challenging the situation may be.

National interest can never take back states, personal, political, partisan interest has to be subservient to National interest. Commitment to National interest is not optional, it is fundamental to our being Indians.

There are forces inimical to Bharat and these are sinister forces, they are dangerous forces that have total distaste and dislike for the very concept of Bharat. You have to be extremely vigilant. You, the youth of the country, being the most vital stakeholders in governance, in democracy, are also enjoined to carry out your constitutional ordainment. Framers of our constitution had bestowed fundamental rights on all citizens but I need to enter into a brief caveat. Fundamental rights have to be earned and fundamental rights are best earned when you perform your fundamental duties.

I beseech all of you, to carefully go through the fundamental duties that are in the Indian Constitution in Part IVA. Once you will go through those fundamental duties, you will realise the importance of those duties and also realise every individual can make contribution. It does not require collective working.

Our transformation has to take place on certain fundamentals, each of you needs to focus on five fundamentals.

One- Social harmony is vital, it must transcend all differences. We must nurture it, we must ensure its blossoms because social harmony will help us evolve National unity and, National unity is fundamental to sustain the growth trajectory of the Nation.

Family enlightenment, your parents, your grand parents, your neighbours, your neighbourhood, we are a different kind of a society. A strong feeling for neighbourhood ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ that principle has to start from the family being a unit. You have to nurture it.

Environmental protection, go to our religious functions, go to our traditions, how we find in our epics concern is bestowed on environment, flora and fauna, the planet is not captive of human beings alone. Lack of concern for environment, reckless exploitation for personal gain discarding the age old principle of trusteeship has brought us to this cliffhanging situation.

We are at the cusp of a disaster of climate change menace and, therefore you have to make contributions. Prime Minister’s clarion call for ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ has got into Jan Andolan, make sure not only you do it, you persuade everyone you come across to do it

Our institutions are facing structured taint a facet of wokeism. Our Constitutional functionaries are sought to be ridiculed. It is time for you to reflect. Be it to institution of the President, of the Vice-President, or the Prime Minister. These are not political posts, these are our institutions. People fail to show even minimum respect.

My heart bleeds when President of the country, the first ever tribal woman to hold that high office is shamed, ridiculed, even when she performs her Constitutional duty in the joint session of parliament. Her tribal status becomes a cause of concern when the taint is put in public domain. A lady of sterling worth, track record of dedicated service, as a Legislator, as a Minister, as a Governor and now President of India.

A Prime Minister after six decades for the first time, after six decades, continued in office for the third term. Anything and everything can be said, we must not bear with it. I wouldn’t come to my position but there are some unforgettable moments of pain when in the sacred premises of Parliament, a mimicry is videographed by a person who holds responsible political position. Sometimes we can overlook but we can never forget, we forgive for a simple reason, that’s our culture.

So please believe in our Institutions because they are very strong, be it our Election Commission or our Judiciary. Election commission is wrong when you lose. It is right when you win.

What kind of formula we have?

Let us be judgmental, but on rational premise. Our judgment must have a rationale, a rationale that can be subject to deep analysis.

The country, young friends, is facing a great challenge because we have in millions illegal migrants amongst us. They are making demand on our workforce because they are working, depriving our people of work education facilities, health facilities, government facilities, like Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana.

This infiltration is no less than invasion, just imagine millions of illegal migrants in the country, how severely our security is compromised. The entire world at the moment has become serious about it. We work up, when under the law of some country, some of our own people who were misguided, who were cheated, who were lured into going abroad through the wrong means, come back here but we don’t look at the ground under our feet. We are on quicksand. This bomb is ticking for you. I am talking on mindset so generate a mindset. Why should they be here?

Then these change our demographic landscape. They electorally manipulate us.

They start defining democracy.

Surely we can’t be yielding on such a challenging scenario.

It is the bound and duty of every Indian to have a point of view, to express that point of view, to have a dialogue about it and call upon the authorities concerned to generate a pressure. This has to end. Whenever there is a talk, something which is in the Constitution, politics enters Uniform Civil Code is a Constitutional ordainment. Founding Fathers of the Constitution had put it under Article 44 of the Directive Principles.

Therefore, let me tell you. I do not know what is the severity of the earthquake that may befall us, but tremors are being already felt. In the country there is emergence of specified areas where elections have ceased to have any meaning at the moment. We cannot afford this kind of challenge to our civilisation.

Our civilization was bled 1200 years ago. Nalanda was blossoming, prospering, a center of knowledge and wisdom. Convergence of scholars from all over the world came. They benefited and they benefited us. Marauders came, invaders came recklessly with extreme brutality, barbarity. Made an effort to destroy our culture, our civilisation, our religious places, and so was the perversion.

Destroy our religious place have their own. Patience and tolerance are virtues, but not at the cost of Nationalism. You here people have to be alert.

Europe is witnessing situations, some countries are witnessing situations. We look calm but this calm is before a storm.

Let us contain that storm. Let us puncture the balloon of a storm, and that can be done only when people change their mindset, share their concern with everyone, generate an opinion, and put their foot down

The latest that has come as a shocking expose is the President of the United States. I am sure you all are aware of what he said, that fiscal muscle was used. Funds were pumped in, to doctor and manipulate our democratic result. He has gone to the extent of saying, I must give my thought on it, that someone else was sought to be elected. To elect is the right only of Indian people. Anyone doctoring or manipulating that process is undermining our democratic values, is subverting our democracy in the process, bringing us under servitude, subservience.

I, therefore, from this platform call upon everyone. Time has come to thoroughly get into this malice, this political COVID infiltrated in our society to destroy our democracy. All those involved in this sinister activity, who benefited out of this structured pernicious strategy must be shamed and brought to book, fully exposed.

*****

JK/RC/SM

(Release ID: 2105416) Visitor Counter : 37

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: BOEM Rescinds Flawed NTL—The Right Decision for Offshore Energy

Source: National Ocean Industries Association – NOIA

Headline: BOEM Rescinds Flawed NTL—The Right Decision for Offshore Energy

For Immediate Release: Friday, February 21, 2025NOIA .org
BOEM Rescinds Flawed NTL—The Right Decision for Offshore Energy
Washington, D.C. – National Ocean Industries Association President Erik Milito issued the following statement after the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) rescinded NTL No. 2023-G01, Expanded Rice’s Whale Protection Efforts During Reinitiated Consultation with NMFS:
“The NTL was the direct result of a July 2023 Stipulated Stay agreement between the Biden administration and activist groups—crafted behind closed doors without input from experts, stakeholders, or Congress. This kind of backroom policymaking ignores the best available science, contradicts Congressional directives, and undermines America’s energy independence.
“Shortly after, the Western District of Louisiana issued a preliminary injunction blocking the NTL’s implementation, finding that Interior’s actions were procedurally invalid, arbitrary, and capricious—a decision later upheld by the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. Yet despite the courts striking it down, the NTL continues to create uncertainty for offshore energy development. It is simply bad policy to keep federal guidance in place when it was both legally flawed and developed as a closed-door settlement.
“Although the NTL labeled mitigation measures—such as vessel speed limits and nighttime travel restrictions—as ‘recommendations,’ it urged companies to incorporate them into future plans, sowing long-term regulatory uncertainty. These measures also disproportionately burdened offshore oil and gas operations, undermining job creation, economic growth, and energy security, all without a foundation in science.
“Environmental protection is a shared priority, but it must be pursued through a fair and transparent process. The Rice’s whale remains fully protected under the Endangered Species Act and the Marine Mammal Protection Act, regardless of the NTL. Meanwhile, BOEM and NMFS are following a more established regulatory process as they update the Biological Opinion governing Gulf of America oil and gas permitting and work on the Rice’s whale critical habitat designation, both expected later this year. Unlike the NTL, this process allows for greater transparency, stakeholder input, and adherence to established regulatory norms.”
##
About NOIA The National Ocean Industries Association (NOIA) represents and advances a dynamic and growing offshore energy industry, providing solutions that support communities and protect our workers, the public and our environment.

MIL OSI Economics –

February 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Decisions taken by the Governing Council of the ECB (in addition to decisions setting interest rates)

Source: European Central Bank

February 2025

21 February 2025

Market operations

Extension of liquidity lines until January 2027

On 23 January 2025 the Governing Council approved the extension of the ECB repo lines with eight non-euro area central banks (Magyar Nemzeti Bank, Banca Națională a României, Bank of Albania, Andorran Financial Authority, National Bank of the Republic of North Macedonia, Central Bank of the Republic of San Marino, Central Bank of Montenegro and Central Bank of the Republic of Kosovo) until 31 January 2027. The decision was taken pursuant to the new framework for euro liquidity lines, which was adopted in 2023.

Eurosystem climate stress test report

On 13 February 2025 the Governing Council took note of the main findings of the 2024 climate stress test on the Eurosystem’s balance sheet, which will feed into the Eurosystem’s climate-related financial disclosures.

Market infrastructure and payments

Inclusion of provisions on the TARGET Analytical Environment in the T2 Currency Participation Agreement

On 13 February 2025 the Governing Council approved the amendments to the agreement on the use of T2 services (T2 Currency Participation Agreement) to include the TARGET Analytical Environment as a standard feature offered to both current and future signatories of the T2 Currency Participation Agreement.

Advice on legislation

ECB Opinion on flood insurance

On 4 February 2025 the Governing Council adopted Opinion CON/2025/3 at the request of the Chair of the Oireachtas (Irish National Parliament) Joint Committee on Finance, Public Expenditure and Reform and Taoiseach (Irish Prime Minister).

ECB Opinion on indirect participants in, and access to, payment systems, and a new exemption from the cash rule

On 5 February 2025 the Governing Council adopted Opinion ECB Recommendation on the external auditors of the European Central Bank for the financial years 2025 to 2029

On 12 February 2025 the Governing Council adopted Recommendation ECB/2025/6 to the Council of the European Union on the external auditors of the European Central Bank.

Statistics

Extension of the Integrated Reporting Framework and the Common Data Management investigation phases

On 17 February 2025 the Governing Council approved the revised Quality Review Gate 1 documentation (including the Financial Envelopes and Project Charters), extending until the end of September 2025 the investigation phases of the ESCB and SSM Common Data Management and the ESCB Integrated Reporting Framework projects.

Banknotes and coins

Composition of the design contest jury for the new euro banknotes

On 6 February 2025 the Governing Council took note of the composition of the design contest jury for the new euro banknotes. The jury will prepare a shortlist of designs to support the selection of the final design of the future euro banknotes by the Governing Council and is scheduled to start work in early 2025.

ECB Banking Supervision

Update of the 2025 Supervisory Examination Programme (SEP) for on-site inspections and internal model investigations at significant institutions

On 30 January 2025 the Governing Council did not object to a proposal by the Supervisory Board for an update of the 2025 SEP for on-site inspections and internal model investigations at significant institutions and outsourcing service providers. The on-site SEP is based on SSM supervisory priorities for 2025-2027 published on the ECB’s banking supervision website.

MIL OSI Economics –

February 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister announces changes to the parliamentary secretary team
Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced changes to the parliamentary secretary team.

In their new roles, the parliamentary secretaries will support their respective cabinet ministers to make progress on the priorities that matter most to Canadians. They will engage directly with Canadians on key initiatives and represent the government at home and abroad. Their appointments are effective immediately.

The changes to the parliamentary secretary team are as follows:
- Vance Badawey becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Transport and Internal Trade
- Jaime Battiste becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs and Minister responsible for the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency
- Chris Bittle becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development
- Mike Kelloway becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
- Irek Kusmierczyk becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Seniors
- Bryan May becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister
- Yasir Naqvi becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health
- Taleeb Noormohamed becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Finance and Intergovernmental Affairs (Canada-U.S.)
- Jennifer O’Connell becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Public Safety (Cybersecurity)
- Marc G. Serré becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources
- Terry Sheehan becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario
- Ryan Turnbull becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Finance and Intergovernmental Affairs and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry
- Adam van Koeverden becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Sport and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada
The Prime Minister also welcomed the following new members to the parliamentary secretary team:
- Kody Blois becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
- Julie Dzerowicz becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs (Consular Affairs and Latin America)
- Arielle Kayabaga becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Small Business
- Viviane Lapointe becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Official Languages and Associate Minister of Public Safety
- Tim Louis becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage
- Francesco Sorbara becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Finance and Intergovernmental Affairs
These new parliamentary secretaries will work to deliver real, positive change for Canadians. They join the following parliamentary secretaries remaining in their portfolio:
- Paul Chiang, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
- Julie Dabrusin, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources
- Peter Fragiskatos, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities
- Lisa Hepfner, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth
- Anthony Housefather, Parliamentary Secretary to the President of the Treasury Board
- Iqra Khalid, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Revenue
- Annie Koutrakis, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec
- Marie-France Lalonde, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Defence
- Kevin Lamoureux, Parliamentary Secretary to the Leader of the Government in the House of Commons
- Stéphane Lauzon, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Citizens’ Services
- James Maloney, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada
- Rob Oliphant, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs
- Sherry Romanado, Parliamentary Secretary to the President of the King’s Privy Council for Canada and Minister of Emergency Preparedness
- Randeep Sarai, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence
- Maninder Sidhu, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development
- Charles Sousa, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Public Services and Procurement
- Anita Vandenbeld, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of International Development
- Sameer Zuberi, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities
Quote

“Our government is laser-focused on the issues that matter most to you and your family. With these additions to our strong team, we will create and protect Canadian jobs, build more homes, reduce emissions, make life cost less, and defend Canadian interests.”

Quick Facts
- Parliamentary secretaries are chosen by the Prime Minister to assist ministers.
- The responsibilities of parliamentary secretaries generally fall into two broad categories: House of Commons business and department-related duties.
- Parliamentary secretaries are not members of Cabinet and do not play a formal role in the Cabinet decision-making process. They support their ministers, but overall responsibility and accountability remains with the minister.
Associated Links

MIL OSI Canada News –
February 22, 2025
MIL-OSI NGOs: Greenpeace organizations go to trial on high-stakes SLAPP lawsuit that could redefine protest rights

Source: Greenpeace Statement –

430+ orgs and 330,000+ individuals support Greenpeace organizations in fight against abuse of the legal system and corporate overreach

Mandan, North Dakota (February 21, 2025)–North Dakota is set to become the battleground for one of the most consequential free speech cases in recent history. Energy Transfer, the Big Oil corporation behind the Dakota Access Pipeline, is seeking $300 million in damages from Greenpeace USA and Greenpeace International, accusing these organizations of playing a central role in organizing the Indigenous-led resistance to the pipeline back in 2016. The lawsuit is one of the largest Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPP) cases ever filed, and one of the biggest cases to go to court in North Dakota. Trial begins on February 24, 2025.

“This case is a prime example of corporations abusing the legal system to silence critics and keep their operations secret,” said Sushma Raman, Greenpeace USA Interim Executive Director. “It is also a critical test of the future of the First Amendment – both freedom of speech and peaceful protest – under the Trump Administration and beyond. But we are fighting back, and we are not fighting back alone.”

More than 430 organizations signed an open letter to Energy Transfer including 350.org, Public Citizen, ACLU North Dakota, SEIU, Indigenous Environmental Network, and Amnesty International USA (view full organization list) along with public figures such as Billie Eilish, Jane Fonda, Adam McKay, and Susan Sarandon – plus more than 350,000 individuals from around the world.

The claims

Energy Transfer’s claims against the Greenpeace entities fall into three broad categories: defamation, tortious interference, and on the ground claims.

The claims related to defamation allege that the Greenpeace entities made false statements, which caused damages to the company.

“The important thing to note here is that by the time Greenpeace entities made any of these statements that are at issue, these were statements that were already widely circulated in the public,” said Deepa Padmanabha. “These were not statements that Greenpeace invented, and they were all legitimate expressions of the First Amendment protected right to speak.”

Energy Transfer also claims that Greenpeace made alleged false statements to financial institutions involved with financing the Dakota Access Pipeline – and that based on those statements, the financial institutions took action that cost Energy Transfer hundreds of millions of dollars in damages. The financial institutions, however, had their own commitments and conducted their own due diligence regarding the Dakota Access Pipeline.

“The last bucket of claims are related to on the ground incidents such as trespass, conversion, and aiding and abetting,” said Padmanabha. “This is the area of claims that makes it clear that Energy Transfer’s target is much bigger than Greenpeace. Beyond the impact that this could have on the Greenpeace entities, one of the most worrisome things about the case is that it could establish dangerous new legal precedents that could hold any participant at protests responsible for the actions of others at those protests – including unknown individuals. And you can imagine that this would have a serious chilling effect on anybody who wants to engage in protest.”

“Greenpeace played an extremely limited role at Standing Rock, and is proud of showing up in solidarity with Standing Rock activists. At no time did Greenpeace engage in property destruction or violence. All claims to the contrary are a reckless disregard for the truth.”

Fighting back against SLAPP lawsuits

SLAPP stands for Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation. These types of cases masquerade as ordinary civil lawsuits, but their true purpose is to retaliate against those who speak out against harms. Such meritless lawsuits are meant to silence or bankrupt opponents by dragging defendants through a long, lengthy, expensive legal process.

As SLAPPs are a growing threat, most U.S. states have put legal protections in place to protect advocates. But in North Dakota – and 17 other states – no anti-SLAPP statutes exist. Last Congress, Representatives Raskin, Wyden, and Kiley introduced bipartisan legislation to deter corporations from filing SLAPP suits and to protect everyone’s right to free speech. In Europe, the European Union’s anti-SLAPP Directive entered into force in May 2024.

On Feb 11th, 2025, Greenpeace International initiated the first test of the EU’s new anti-SLAPP Directive by filing a lawsuit against Energy Transfer in the Netherlands.

“Energy Transfer is attempting to hold Greenpeace International, a dutch-based nonprofit foundation accountable for hundreds of millions of dollars of alleged damages for signing on to a letter with over 500 organisations from more than 50 countries,” said Greenpeace International General Counsel Kristin Casper. “It is this, along with many more reasons, we believe Energy Transfer’s pending US$300 million suit is a contender for the award of the most blatant SLAPP anywhere in the world.”

Big Oil companies Shell, Total, and ENI have also filed SLAPPs against Greenpeace entities in recent years. Just last year, Shell came after Greenpeace UK and Greenpeace International in a multimillion dollar lawsuit. After a quarter of a million people spoke out, the lawsuit was settled in December 2024.

“Greenpeace has faced a long history of threats,” said Charlie Cray, Greenpeace USA Senior Strategist. “When the Rainbow Warrior ship was bombed in 1985, we said ‘you can’t sink a rainbow.’ And now we’re saying: ‘you can’t sue a movement.’ Whatever happens in North Dakota, we will continue to campaign for a green and peaceful future.”

Partner quotes

“The lawsuit against Greenpeace is also an attack on the Indigenous movement in our fight for self-determination to protect Mother Earth, our waters, sacred and cultural sites and our youth and future generations. These colonialist lawsuits are trying to send a warning to anyone who might consider speaking out and to be quiet – any of you could be next.” – Morgan Brings Plenty, Standing Rock Youth Council

“The case against Greenpeace illustrates how mega-corporations can use lawsuits to silence, intimidate and ruin their critics. America must demand, and Congress must pass, bipartisan legislation to protect First Amendment rights against ruinous litigation practices.” – Rep. Jamie Raskin

“Amnesty International USA stands steadfast with Greenpeace USA in their fight against Big Oil’s attempt to punish and silence a strong advocate for environmental rights and climate justice for its fight against the Dakota Access Pipeline. As we experience the continual warming of our planet year over year due to the burning of fossil fuels, we need Greenpeace USA now more than ever to advocate and be a strong voice for the communities most at risk from the impacts of the climate crisis, rather than defending itself against retaliatory lawfare.” – Justin Mazzola, Researcher, Amnesty International USA

“Everyone who says they care about freedom – of whatever political stripe – should join together to support the Greenpeace campaign to protect people’s right to speak out against corporate abuses. As Greenpeace knows from its own experience, too often corporations use their political, economic and legal power not just to run PR campaigns justifying their wrongdoing, but to threaten public interest advocates with bad-faith lawsuits (SLAPPs) and other intimidation tactics.” – Robert Weissman, Co-president of Public Citizen

“Protesters and advocacy groups should never have to fear the weight of groups like ETP [Energy Transfer Partners] as a condition for expressing their First Amendment rights. The court should see this lawsuit for what it is and toss it.” – Brian Hauss, Senior Staff Attorney, ACLU

“No matter how hard they try, corporate powers will never silence the voice of the people. Working alongside movement allies, we know our collective pursuit of liberation and transformative change endangers what corporations like Energy Transfer rely on: a status quo built on injustice. We know this through our year-round issue-based and electoral organizing. TOP is proud to be in solidarity with Greenpeace as it fights this shameful attempt to stifle dissent and protest.” – David Villalobos, Political Director of Texas Organizing Project (TOP)

Contact: Madison Carter, Greenpeace USA Senior Communications Specialist, [email protected]

Greenpeace USA is part of a global network of independent campaigning organizations that use peaceful protest and creative communication to expose global environmental problems and promote solutions that are essential to a green and peaceful future. Greenpeace USA is committed to transforming the country’s unjust social, environmental, and economic systems from the ground up to address the climate crisis, advance racial justice, and build an economy that puts people first. Learn more at www.greenpeace.org/usa.

MIL OSI NGO –

February 22, 2025

Category: Environment

Trump-eye lens on the world

A national priority

Environmentally friendly steel?

Can we add value?

Focus on government spending

Source: Environmental Protection Authority

Source: Northland Regional Council

Source: Environmental Protection Authority

Illegal Migrants Intervening in Electoral Process, Becoming Decisive Players, says Vice-PresidentConversion Through Allurement and Temptation Aimed at Changing Nation’s Demography, warns VP

Recent news

Contact

The challenge of poorly understood processes

A high-end projection

Reducing the uncertainty

Protect the West Act would invest $60 Billion to reduce wildfire risk, restore watersheds, protect communities, and reduce wildfire suppression costs.

February 2025

Market operations

Market infrastructure and payments

Advice on legislation

Statistics

Banknotes and coins

ECB Banking Supervision

Quote

Quick Facts

Associated Links

Illegal Migrants Intervening in Electoral Process, Becoming Decisive Players, says Vice-President

Conversion Through Allurement and Temptation Aimed at Changing Nation’s Demography, warns VP