NewzIntel.com

Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI China: ​Paris exhibition showcases art by women with disabilities

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    A view of the opening ceremony for the “Beautiful Crafts Workshop Blossoming in Paris” exhibition, featuring cultural and creative works by women with disabilities, in Paris, France, Sept. 3, 2024. [Xinhua]

    An exhibition featuring cultural and creative works by women with disabilities opened in Paris on Sept. 3, coinciding with the atmosphere surrounding the 2024 Paris Paralympics.

    The “Beautiful Crafts Workshop Blossoming in Paris” exhibition, displaying nearly 300 handcrafted items, aims to foster cultural exchange and showcase the talents of people with disabilities. Items on display include silk dolls, cloth tigers, fish skin paintings, wooden combs, wood carvings and ceramics.

    Zhang Haidi, president of Rehabilitation International (RI) and former chairperson of China Disabled Persons’ Federation (CDPF), expressed hope that the exhibition would gain global recognition and help improve the lives of women with disabilities.

    During the opening ceremony, UNESCO’s assistant director-general for culture, Ernesto Ottone, noted that the exhibition embodies the concept of an inclusive society and sustainable development. He added that the exhibition’s timing, coinciding with the Paralympics, highlights the common features of accessibility, inclusion, and diversity shared by sports and culture.

    The exhibited works originate from over 30 “Beautiful Crafts Workshops” across Chinese provinces, including Guangdong, Shandong, and Hebei. Launched in 2022 as a joint effort by the China Disabled Persons’ Federation and the All-China Women’s Federation, the initiative supports handicraft businesses and organizations that enable women with disabilities to work from home or nearby locations. To date, the program has provided employment for more than 10,000 women with disabilities nationwide.

    Tang Zhanxin, a representative of the “Beautiful Crafts Workshop,” shared her personal experience with the initiative, highlighting how it has enabled many women with disabilities in China to access stable employment and improve their livelihoods.

    China plans to establish 100 additional “Beautiful Crafts Workshops” over the next three years, aiming to provide employment opportunities for 10,000 more women with disabilities.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: New tech at expo signals China’s foreign trade momentum

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Robots perform dance at a booth during the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The third Global Digital Trade Expo, currently unfolding in Hangzhou, capital of east China’s Zhejiang Province, is offering a glimpse into avant-garde technologies that are unlocking the country’s burgeoning potential in foreign trade.

    Over the span of five days, the exhibition is featuring 446 new products and technologies, ranging from robots performing remarkable tasks like opening bottles and sorting waste to AI-driven digital humans engaging in debate competitions.

    “I was impressed most by medical AI displayed at the exhibition, such as robotic surgical arms and screening clinics,” said Kgaladi Melia Thema, a consultant for innovation and technology of Small Enterprise Development Agency, South Africa.

    “Nurses can use chronic disease management screening products for patients, which can be applied both at home and in clinics. This reduces costs and enables remote patient monitoring, offering great potential,” she added.

    Digital technologies such as big data, cloud computing and blockchain are taking center stage at the expo, underscoring how China is harnessing these innovations to propel its foreign trade.

    At the booth of iFLYTEK Co., Ltd., a front-runner in China’s AI and speech technology industry, several African visitors were immersed in real-time conversations with staff through a state-of-the-art multilingual AI-powered translation screen. Despite the bustling environment, the screen, equipped with advanced voice recognition technologies, accurately captured and responded to human voices.

    “Overseas business is poised to become a significant growth engine for us in the coming years. Our aspiration is for it to constitute one-third of our business segments in the future,” said Liu Qingfeng, chairman of iFLYTEK.

    Chinese cultural exports are also stealing the show at the exhibition. In the digital entertainment zone, innovative exhibits such as an AI-powered representation of Su Dongpo, a celebrated poet from the Song Dynasty (960-1279), a virtual museum of traditional Chinese music, as well as a 3D display of the four bronze animal heads from the Old Summer Palace (Yuanmingyuan), are offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into the richness of Chinese culture.

    “The fusion of digital technology with the splendor of traditional Chinese culture has not only expanded our export opportunities, but also invigorated the growth of China’s culture industry,” said Wu Shuang, a staff member of Zhejiang Kayou Animation Co., Ltd., a domestic card game creator.

    Visitors are also being treated to futuristic transportation solutions, including autonomous boat taxis and the electric Vertical Take-off and Landing (eVTOL) vehicles, all being showcased for the first time at this year’s expo.

    “China is rightly regarded as a global leader in digital technologies and innovations,” said Zhaslan Madiyev, minister of Digital Development, Innovations and Aerospace Industry of the Republic of Kazakhstan, adding that China’s advancement in digital trade is not only creating new avenues for cooperation, but also enhancing global trade infrastructure, fostering sustainable development worldwide.

    “Chinese technologies and innovations are enhancing supply chains, making them faster and more efficient, while also improving access to goods and services,” Madiyev noted.

    According to the Global Digital Trade Development Report 2024 released during the event, global digital trade soared to around 7.13 trillion U.S. dollars (about 1.02 trillion yuan) in 2023, up from 6.02 trillion U.S. dollars in 2021, marking an average annual growth rate of 8.8 percent.

    The report also highlighted that the import and export scale of China’s cross-border e-commerce reached 2.37 trillion yuan last year, up 15.3 percent year on year.

    Mercado Libre, a leading Latin American e-commerce platform, witnessed a 70-percent increase in online Chinese sellers and a 75-percent surge in their sales on its platform in 2023.

    The company has opened its cross-border e-commerce services to Chinese sellers in Mexico, Brazil, Chile and Colombia, according to its representative at the expo, who also emphasized the escalating significance of the Chinese market.

    As China’s sole national-level event focusing on the theme of digital trade, the expo has drawn over 1,500 enterprises, including more than 300 international companies, and over 30,000 purchasers this year.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: FACT SHEET: UPDATE: Biden-⁠ Harris Administration’s Continued Response Efforts to Hurricane  Helene

    Source: The White House

    Under President Biden and Vice President Harris’s leadership, the Administration is continuing to provide robust and well-coordinated Federal support for the ongoing response and recovery efforts to Hurricane Helene’s impacts. The President and Vice President are closely monitoring these efforts and receive regular updates from their teams.
     
    At the President’s direction, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell visited Florida over the weekend to assess damage alongside local and state officials. She continued surveying damage today in parts of Georgia before she moves into North Carolina on Monday.

    Earlier this evening, Administrator Criswell and Homeland Security Advisor Liz Sherwood-Randall briefed President Biden on the ongoing impacts of Hurricane Helene in multiple states, including Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama, Tennessee, and Virginia. Administrator Criswell also updated the President on Federal actions to support response and recovery.  

    The President directed Administrator Criswell to determine what more can be done to accelerate support to those who are having the most difficult time accessing assistance in isolated communities. He also advised the FEMA Administrator that as soon as it will not disrupt emergency response operations, he intends to travel this week to impacted communities.

    Additionally, the Federal government is closely monitoring an additional weather disturbance in the Caribbean Sea that has the potential to form into another storm in the coming week. Residents throughout the Gulf Coast should remain alert, listen to local officials, and make additional preparations as needed.
     
    Additional Federal response actions include:
     
    Approving Major Disaster Declarations
     
    Yesterday, President Biden approved Major Disaster declarations for the states of Florida and North Carolina, allowing survivors to immediately access funds and resources to jumpstart their recovery. People in 17 counties in Florida and 25 counties in North Carolina, including the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, can now apply for assistance with FEMA. People can apply in three ways: online by visiting disasterassistance.gov, calling 1-800-621-3362 or on the FEMA App.
     
    FEMA assistance in Florida and North Carolina may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula, and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay.
     
    Emergency declarations were also approved for Florida, North Carolina Tennessee, South Carolina, Georgia, Virginia, and Alabama. Under an emergency declaration, FEMA provides direct Federal support to states for life saving activities and other emergency protective measures, such as evacuation, sheltering, and search and rescue.
     
    Supporting On-The-Ground Response Efforts
     
    As of today, more than 3,300 personnel from across the Federal workforce are deployed and supporting Hurricane Helene response efforts across the impacted states. This includes the most experienced incident management teams to help identity Federal resources to address unmet needs, as well as Urban Search and Rescue personnel using high water rescue equipment for rescue missions across the region. 
     
    At least 50,000 personnel from 31 states and the District of Columbia and Canada are responding to power outages and working around the clock throughout parts of Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina to restore power to those communities that can receive power. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is moving generators and additional power generation assets into the hardest hit areas of South and North Carolina as flood waters recede and debris removal allows. As of this afternoon, approximately 2.3 million customers are without power, down from the region-wide peak of 4.6 million on September 27.
     
    Additional Interagency Support Efforts
     
    Together with state and local partners, the Federal government is actively supporting Hurricane Helene response efforts and is coordinating requests for Federal assistance.

    • FEMA distribution centers are fully stocked and ready to provide commodities and equipment to any impacted state, as required.
    • FEMA is trucking dozens of trailers containing food and water in North Carolina to support the State as they start to set up care-sites for survivors.
    • FEMA is also working with the Federal Communications Commission and private sector telecommunications partners to deploy emergency mobile communications assets while they work to restore network services, particularly in remote areas.
    • The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services declared a Public Health Emergency for Florida and Georgia, giving health care providers and suppliers greater flexibility in meeting emergency health needs of Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries. About 200 medical responders are in Florida, Alabama, and North Carolina, along with medical equipment and supplies, to help ensure the delivery of health care services following the landfall of Hurricane Helene.
    • Twenty-four federal Urban Search and Rescue Task Forces are deployed across the affected regions. Roughly 1,302 Urban Search and Rescue personnel are assisting in the impacted areas. Together with local and state responders, teams have rescued and supported over 1,400 of people across the impacted area.
    • The U.S. Coast Guard has thousands of personnel working on response efforts and are conducting post-storm assessments to support the rapid reopening of impacted ports.
    • The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers deployed teams for temporary emergency power, debris removal, and infrastructure assessment, including for dams throughout the region.
    • The Environmental Protection Agency has personnel on the ground who are offering technical assistance and guidance on water systems, debris management, and maintaining critical public health and environmental protections in place as storm impacts are assessed.
    • The U.S. Small Business Administration deployed more than 50 personnel to support survivors and small businesses as they recover from the hurricane.
    • The U.S. Department of Energy has responders deployed across the region and are closely monitoring power, fuel, and supply chain interruptions.
    • The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency has deployed personnel to the impacted region to extend much-needed emergency credit to farmers and agriculture producers who lost crops and livestock.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Minimum Unit Price rises

    Source: Scottish Government

    Cost per unit of alcohol increases to 65p.

    EMBARGOED UNTIL 0001 on 30 September 2024

    The minimum price per unit of alcohol will increase by 15 pence from today.

    MSPs previously voted to continue the public health measure which had been scheduled to end automatically on 30 April as part of a ‘sunset clause’ when Minimum Unit Pricing (MUP) legislation was introduced in 2018.

    They also voted to introduce a price increase, with a rise to 65p per unit chosen as the Scottish Government seeks to increase the positive effects of the policy and to take account of inflation.

    Health Secretary Neil Gray said:

    “Research commended by internationally-renowned public health experts estimated that our world-leading policy has saved hundreds of lives, likely averted hundreds of alcohol-attributable hospital admissions and contributed to reducing health inequalities.

    “Experts wrote to The Lancet, describing Public Health Scotland’s evaluation of minimum unit pricing as ‘high-quality’ and ‘comprehensive’, and expressing confidence that there are several hundred people with low income in Scotland who are alive today as a result of this policy.

    “However, the Scottish Government is determined to do all it can to reduce alcohol-related harm and as part of that, I am working to ensure people with problematic alcohol use receive the same quality of care and support as those dealing with problematic drugs use. We have also made a record £112 million available to Alcohol and Drug Partnerships to deliver or commission treatment and support services locally, as well as investing £100 million in residential rehabilitation.

    “I have also asked that Public Health Scotland is commissioned to review evidence and options for reducing exposure to alcohol marketing.”

    Background

    The Scottish Parliament voted to approve Orders increasing the minimum unit price and continue the effect of minimum unit pricing in April 2024. As part of an in-built ‘sunset clause’, agreed by MSPs when MUP legislation was first passed in 2018, the policy had been due to end on 30 April.

    The increase will take effect from midnight on 30 September 2024.

    The Scottish Government has worked closely with retail partners to publish a guide and ensure that retailers have all the information they need.

    Research conducted by Public Health Scotland and the University of Glasgow estimated that MUP had reduced alcohol-attributable deaths by 13.4% – 156 a year – and was likely to have reduced hospital admissions wholly attributable to alcohol by 4.1% up to the end of 2020 compared to what would have happened if MUP had not been in place.

    PHS evaluation found there was no clear evidence of substantial negative impacts on the alcoholic drinks industry.

    Public health experts wrote an open letter to The Lancet last August commending Public Health Scotland’s evaluation of minimum unit pricing commenting that it was “high quality” and “comprehensive” and that “Policymakers can be confident that there are several hundred people with low income in Scotland who would have died as a result of alcohol, who are alive today as a result of minimum unit pricing”.

    The Scottish Government continues to progress work on reducing exposure to alcohol marketing. Once the PHS review of evidence on alcohol marketing is concluded the Scottish Government will consider any areas where evidence supports further consultation.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Ethical Investments – $100 billion of KiwiSaver funds use an ethical approach – Mindful Money

    Source: Mindful Money
    From Niche to Norm: $100 billion of KiwiSaver funds use an ethical approach

    Monday 30th September 2024 – New analysis from the charity, Mindful Money, shows good news about Kiwis investing ethically. There is rising demand for ethical investment, more Kiwis aware of the companies in their KiwiSaver fund, and a sharp decline in unethical investment. Ethical investment has progressed from a niche to become the dominant approach to managing investments.

    As KiwiSaver hits $111 billion in funds under management, the FMA has estimated that 90% of KiwiSaver is now managed with some form of ethical investing approach, usually through Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) analysis. This means that $100 billion of KiwiSaver funds are now managed with some form of ethical management.

    Barry Coates, co-CEO of the charity Mindful Money explained, “Members of the public understand that their investments have consequences for the issues they care about – climate change, a healthy environment and social well-being. Mindful Money helps them find out where their money goes. Knowledge is power, and Kiwi investors are using it.”

    Ethical investing is now good practice

    This growth in ethical investing is primarily driven by two key factors. Firstly, the growth in consumer demand, as more investors become aware that their investments have consequences for the climate, the environment and social well-being. And secondly, the understanding by investment providers that it makes sense to reduce the growing financial risks of poor environment, social or governance practices.

    Coates emphasised the power of collective action: “This remarkable progress demonstrates the undeniable impact of people power. As more New Zealanders demand ethical investment options, we’re witnessing a fundamental shift in the market. It’s clear that informed and engaged citizens have the ability to reshape the financial landscape, driving positive change that aligns with our shared values and aspirations for a better world.”

    Unethical investment is on a downward trend

    Mindful Money has data on the trend in KiwiSaver and managed funds investment over the past six years and has been tracking progress. There have been significant changes in the proportion of investment in unethical issues.

    These include:

    • 74% fall in tobacco products
    • 33% fall in alcohol
    • 20% fall in gambling
    • 69% fall in pornography and adult entertainment
    • 31% fall in weapons
    • 29% fall in animal cruelty
    • 16% fall in environmental damage

    Barry Coates expressed optimism about these developments: “We’re seeing promising signs that the investment sector is starting to shift gears. More funds are moving towards ethical options than ever before, reflecting the growing demand from Kiwi investors for investments that align with their values.”

    “For example, KiwiSaver investments in nuclear weapons have plummeted from over $100 million in 2019 to $13 million currently, despite a huge increase in overall KiwiSaver funds. The investment providers are getting the message that their clients don’t want their money to be invested in making nuclear weapons. As a nation, we’ve long stood against nuclear weapons, and now our investments are starting to reflect our values.”

    There is still $9.3 billion of KiwiSaver investment in harmful activities

    Despite the progress, there is still a significant gap between the issues that the public wants to avoid, as shown in annual surveys, and the companies their funds actually invest in. //enz.milnz.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/image001.pngimage001.png@01DB1331.F2737620” class=”gmail-CToWUd gmail-a6T” tabindex=”0″ style=”cursor: pointer; outline: 0px; width: 6.5in; height: 4.875in;”>

    Barry Coates noted: “Some fund managers are too focused on short term returns.  Examples are increased investment in the world’s worst oil and gas companies when oil prices rose after Russia invaded Ukraine, or investments in weapons companies that have profited from bombing in Gaza.”

    He explained: “In the long term, there is evidence that ethical investment returns are at least as high or higher than conventional investing.  Chasing short term returns from investing in harmful activities is unethical and against the wishes of most investors. It is also financially risky, relying on fund managers believing they can time the rises and falls of financial markets.” 

    “The positive trends we’ve observed so far give us confidence that, with continued awareness and action from investors, we can significantly reduce these figures in the coming years.”

    Mindful Money’s impact report shows action to drive change

    Mindful Money is celebrating a milestone. After 6 years since the charity started, over 400,000 New Zealanders have now used its tool for transparency. Mindful Money is uniquely able to show consumers where their KiwiSaver or Managed funds are invested.

    While celebrating progress, Mindful Money remains committed to driving further positive change. Coates notes, “Our 2023/2024 impact report not only highlights the progress we’ve made but also identifies future priorities. The growth in demand for ethical investing is encouraging, but it also highlights the need for fund managers to walk the talk and avoid greenwashing.”

    Barry Coates continued, “Transparency is a wonderful thing. When investors see where their money is invested, and understand that it is easy to switch funds, they are making informed choices. There has been a significant rise in people switching their investments towards funds that demonstrate that they care about ethical issues as well as good returns.”

    Notes:

    Survey data is from the 2024 annual survey of the New Zealand public by Mindful Money and the Responsible Investment Association of Australasia.

    The FMA’s estimate of 90% of investment being managed with a form of ethical investment policy was included in FMA’s General Council, Liam Mason’s speech to the RIAA NZ Conference on 19th September 2024.

    Mindful Money is today releasing its 2023/2024 impact report. It shows the contributions that Mindful Money is making to the transformation of New Zealand’s investments towards higher ethical standards and positive impact.

    More members of the public are now finding out about the companies funded by their investments, categorised by the issues that annual surveys show Kiwis most want to avoid – human rights violations, environmental damage, animal cruelty, weapons, fossil fuels and social harm. Mindful Money is a charity and the information is accessible, easy to use and entirely free.

    The portfolio data is compiled by Mindful Money from the fund information and portfolios that each KiwiSaver fund has filed with the Disclose register to 31st March 2024, supplemented with Mindful Money’s analysis of funds within those portfolios. The list of companies of concern has been drawn from ratings agencies and public sources, including the Norwegian Sovereign Fund, NZ Super Fund, Sustainalytics and research organisations.

    The listing of companies of concern is based on definitions used in Mindful Money’s methodology. These definitions may be different from the exclusions policy and definitions applied by the fund provider.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Administrator Visits Impacted Areas by Helene, Federal Family Continues Response and Recovery Efforts Multi-State Disaster

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: FEMA Administrator Visits Impacted Areas by Helene, Federal Family Continues Response and Recovery Efforts Multi-State Disaster

    FEMA Administrator Visits Impacted Areas by Helene, Federal Family Continues Response and Recovery Efforts Multi-State Disaster

    WASHINGTON — As FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell continues to meet with state and local emergency managers in areas impacted by Hurricane Helene, today, she was in several areas of Georgia assessing damage, talking with survivors and meeting with emergency workers. She will be traveling to North Carolina on Monday, Sept. 30. 

    In five states – Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee – federal agencies, private sector, nonprofit and faith-based organizations are responding to large disasters. Each of these states are at different stages of their response and recovery efforts. However, all states are addressing the impacts including impassable roads, communications and water systems disruptions and power outages.   

    President Biden approved major disaster declarations for the states of Florida and North Carolina, allowing survivors to immediately access funds and resources to jumpstart their recovery. People in 17 counties in Florida and 25 counties in North Carolina, including the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, can now apply for assistance with FEMA. People can apply in three ways: online by visiting disasterassistance.gov, calling 1-800-621-3362 or on the FEMA App.

    FEMA assistance in Florida and North Carolina may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay.

    Emergency declarations are still in effect for Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia. Under an emergency declaration, FEMA can provide support for urgent disaster response activities. 

    The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is assessing the impact of the water systems and what is needed to bring these online in several areas across the southeast.  Several counties in all states have issued boil water notices. Also, several federal agencies are moving in portable equipment to help reestablish communications in some of the hardest hit areas.  

    As water rescues continue in northwest North Carolina for more than a dozen search and rescue teams, Florida is distributing state supplies of food and water at dozens of points of distribution.  In addition, as state supplies are being distributed, FEMA and other federal agencies have moved more commodities into the region to help supplement these efforts, if needed. 

    These snapshots highlight some of the various response and recovery efforts underway. 

    View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”55446″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/973f3e29522b202afa24fedc36ad58d3.jpg?itok=rVG9vUsq” alt=”Caption:

    VALDOSTA, GA – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell, FEMA Region 4 Regional Administrator Robert Samaan and Georgia Rep. Austin Scott, visit Helene survivors in front of their home in Valdosta GA. 

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    VALDOSTA, GA – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell, FEMA Region 4 Regional Administrator Robert Samaan and Georgia Rep. Austin Scott, visit Helene survivors in front of their home in Valdosta GA. 
    View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”55447″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/b197d49c02bd4cf7da30d7a307d1774a.jpeg?itok=-oBqrMXz” alt=”Caption:

    Bradenton, Fla. (Sept. 29, 2024) – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams help survivors of Hurricane Helene. 

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    Bradenton, Fla. (Sept. 29, 2024) – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams help survivors of Hurricane Helene. 
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    Raleigh, NC – Gov. Roy Cooper holds press conference to announce the approval of an expedited major disaster declaration by President Joseph R. Biden.

    ” class=”image-style-large”>

    Raleigh, NC – Gov. Roy Cooper holds press conference to announce the approval of an expedited major disaster declaration by President Joseph R. Biden.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Can Australia prosecute foreigners for genocide overseas? Here’s how our atrocity laws work

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alister McKeich, Lecturer and Researcher in Law, Criminology and Indigenous Studies, Victoria University, Victoria University

    Shutterstock

    The onslaught in the Middle East has brought to the world’s attention once again the “crime of crimes”, genocide.

    Both the the International Court of Justice and International Criminal Court (ICC) have brought allegations of genocide against Israel as a state and Israeli and Hamas leaders as individuals.

    The Australian government’s response to the Gaza crisis has included temporarily freezing of A$6 million of funding to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine. Though funding has been flowing again since March, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has been referred to the ICC by a law firm for being “an accessory to genocide”.

    Against this backdrop, Australia’s own genocide legislation is under parliamentary scrutiny. A bill tabled by independent Senator Lidia Thorpe (for whom I work as a casual legal researcher) seeks to change the way Australia deals with genocide.

    So what do our current laws say and what’s the case for changing them?

    What do our laws say?

    Australia ratified the Genocide Convention in 1949.

    Yet it was not until 2002, once the ICC was established, that the Commonwealth Criminal Code was amended to create a new division of atrocity crimes.

    Through this legislation, Australia may prosecute any person accused of a Rome Statute crime (such as genocide) under Australian law.

    At the moment, written consent from the attorney-general is required before legal proceedings about genocide and other atrocity crimes can commence. This is called the “attorney-general’s fiat”.

    Further, the attorney-general’s decision is final. It “must not be challenged, appealed against, reviewed, quashed or called into question”.

    Thorpe’s bill seeks to overturn these two measures.

    The explanatory memorandum in the 2002 amendment did not say why the attorney-general’s consent was necessary.

    Consent from an attorney-general (or similar position) is not an international requirement.

    Australia is only one of a handful of other countries (including the United Kingdom, New Zealand and Canada) where the fiat also exists.

    Why is it a problem?

    The Australian government has justified the rule on the basis that prosecutions for atrocity crimes against individuals could affect Australia’s international relations and national security.

    However, submissions from legal experts and community groups to a senate inquiry looking at the issue point out flaws.

    They say this rule prevents access to justice for victims and survivors of atrocity crimes. It can also create the potential for government bias.

    Submissions also say the lack of explanation or appeal process ignores fundamental principles of jurisprudence.

    Has the rule been used?

    The attorney-general’s fiat has been used in a limited number of cases.

    In 2009, Palestinian rights groups Australians for Palestine issued a request for consent for the prosecution of former Israeli prime minister Ehud Olmert, who was visiting at the time.

    The Australian Centre for International Justice states in its submission how then-attorney-general Robert McClellend denied the request. He cited matters of international state sovereignty and the difficulties of pursuing such a case in an overseas jurisdiction.

    Then, in 2011, Arunchalam Jegastheeswaran, an Australian citizen of Tamil
    background, sought the attorney-general’s consent for the prosecution of then Sri Lankan President, Mahinda Rajapaksa, who was due to visit Australia.

    McClellend again denied the request, saying Rajapaska was protected under “head of state immunity”. This concept is controversial in international law, given it’s often heads of state who commit atrocity crimes.

    Head of state protection was also offered to former Myanmar (Burma) leader Aung San Suu Kyi, who was in government when the 2017 genocide against the Rohingya was committed.

    With Suu Kyi due to be in Australia for an ASEAN conference in 2018, the Australian Rohingya community sought a prosecution. It was denied by then attorney-general Christian Porter.

    And in 2019, retired Sri Lankan General Jagath Jayasuriya visited Australia. Despite concerted efforts to raise evidence to prosecute Jayasuriya of war crimes, delays with the Australian Federal Police meant the case never reached the point of attorney-general consent.

    First Nations plaintiffs such as Paul Coe and Robert Thorpe have also sought to bring cases of genocide before the domestic courts, with no success.

    What would changing the laws mean?

    As it’s unlikely an attorney-general would consent to prosecutions against its own government, submissions to the inquiry argue the rule creates a direct conflict of interest.

    For First Nations people seeking justice for crimes of “ongoing genocide” perpetuated by the Commonwealth, any government is hardly going to rule in their favour.

    Some Indigenous community groups argue the high rates of First Nations children in protection, deaths in custody, hyper-incarceration and cultural, land and environmental damage amount to genocide crimes.

    Submissions to the inquiry recommend instead of requiring the consent of the attorney-general, claims of genocide should be directed to the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions. This would ensure greater independence from government.

    The director has a mandate for this sort of work. It already investigates similar crimes such as people smuggling, human trafficking, slavery and child exploitation.

    Internationally, the implications of this bill, if passed, will be consequential. The Australian Centre for International Justice estimates up to 1,000 Australian citizens have returned to Israel to fight as part of the Israel Defense Forces. Israel has been accused of serious atrocity crimes in Gaza.

    Should any of those citizens return, there could be attempts to mount a case. The government would then have to consider Australia’s political and economic ties with Israel.

    Whether the bill is passed will depend on parliament. But the situation highlights a paradox: the state itself will be deciding whether to remove its own inbuilt protections against charges of genocide.

    Alister McKeich is a casual legal researcher with the office of Senator Lidia Thorpe.

    – ref. Can Australia prosecute foreigners for genocide overseas? Here’s how our atrocity laws work – https://theconversation.com/can-australia-prosecute-foreigners-for-genocide-overseas-heres-how-our-atrocity-laws-work-236394

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Kamala Harris the slight favourite to win US election as she narrowly leads in key states

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

    The US presidential election will be held on November 5. In analyst Nate Silver’s aggregate of national polls, Democrat Kamala Harris leads Republican Donald Trump by 49.3–46.0 – a slight widening of the competition since last Monday, when Harris led Trump by 49.2–46.2.

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

    There will be a debate on Tuesday evening US time between the vice-presidential candidates, Democrat Tim Walz and Republican JD Vance. Vice-presidential debates in previous elections have not had a significant influence on the contest.

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

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

    In Silver’s polling averages, Harris leads Trump by one to two points in Pennsylvania (19 electoral votes), Michigan (15), Wisconsin (ten) and Nevada (six). If Harris wins all these states, she is likely to win the Electoral College by at least a 276–262 margin. Trump is ahead by less than a point in North Carolina (16 electoral votes) and Georgia (16), and if Harris wins both, she wins by 308–230.

    In Silver’s model, Harris has a 56% chance to win the Electoral College, up from 54% last Monday but down from her peak of 58% two days ago. Earlier this month, there were large differences in win probability between Silver’s model and the FiveThirtyEight model, which was more favourable to Harris. But these models have nearly converged, with FiveThirtyEight now giving Harris a 59% win probability.

    There are still more than five weeks until election day, so polls could change in either Trump’s or Harris’ favour by then. Harris’ one to two point leads in the key states are tenuous, and this explains why Trump is still rated a good chance to win.

    Silver wrote on September 1 that polls in 2020 and 2016 were biased against Trump, but polls in 2012 were biased against Barack Obama. In the last two midterm elections (2022 and 2018), polls have been good. It’s plausible there will be a polling error this year, but which candidate such an error would favour can’t be predicted.

    On Sunday, Silver said if there was a systematic error of three or four points in the polls in either Trump’s or Harris’ favour, that candidate would sweep all the swing states and easily win the Electoral College. There are other scenarios in which one candidate underperforms the polls with some demographics but overperforms with other demographics.

    I wrote about the US election for The Poll Bludger last Thursday, and also covered bleak polls and byelection results in Canada for the governing centre-left Liberals ahead of an election due by October 2025, a dreadful poll for UK Labour Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the new French prime minister, a German state election and a socialist win in Sri Lanka’s presidential election.

    Upwardly revised economic data

    Last Thursday, a revised estimate of June quarter US GDP was released. There was a large upward revision in real disposable personal income compared to the previously reported figures. This has resulted in the personal savings rate being revised up to 4.9% in July from the previously reported 2.9%, and it was 4.8% in August.

    With these upward revisions, Silver’s economic index that averages six indicators is now at +0.25, up from +0.09. As the incumbent party’s candidate, a better economy than was previously believed should help Harris.

    Coalition gains narrow lead in Essential

    In Australia, a national Essential poll, conducted on September 18–22 from a sample of 1,117 people, gave the Coalition a 48–47 lead (including undecided voters) after a 48–48 tie in early September. It’s the Coalition’s first lead in the Essential poll since mid-July.

    Primary votes were 35% Coalition (steady), 29% Labor (down one), 12% Greens (down one), 8% One Nation (steady), 2% UAP (up one), 9% for all Others (up one) and 5% undecided (steady).

    Anthony Albanese’s net approval was up five points since August to –5, with 47% disapproving and 42% approving. Peter Dutton’s net approval was down one to net zero.

    On social media regulations, 48% thought them too weak, 43% about right and 8% too tough. By 67–17, voters supported imposing an age limit for children to access social media (68–15 in July). By 71–12, voters supported making doxing (the public release of personally identifiable data) a criminal offence (62–19 in February).

    By 49–18, voters supported Labor’s Help to Buy scheme, and by 57–13 they supported the build-to-rent scheme. The questions give detail that few voters would know.

    Voters were told the Liberals and Greens had combined to delay Labor’s housing policies in the senate. By 48–22, voters thought the Liberals and Greens should pass the policies and argue for their own policies at the next election, rather than block Labor’s policies. Greens voters supported passing by 55–21.

    Labor keeps narrow lead in Morgan

    A national Morgan poll, conducted September 16–22 from a sample of 1,662 people, gave Labor a 50.5–49.5 lead, unchanged from the September 9–15 Morgan poll.

    Primary votes were 37.5% Coalition (steady), 32% Labor (up 1.5), 12.5% Greens (steady), 5% One Nation (down 0.5), 9.5% independents (down 0.5) and 3.5% others (down 0.5).

    The headline figure is based on respondent preferences. By 2022 election preference flows, Labor led by an unchanged 52–48.

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

    – ref. Kamala Harris the slight favourite to win US election as she narrowly leads in key states – https://theconversation.com/kamala-harris-the-slight-favourite-to-win-us-election-as-she-narrowly-leads-in-key-states-239735

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: German carmakers eye increased, deeper NEV cooperation with China

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    German carmakers have expressed optimism about cooperation with China in the new energy vehicle (NEV) industry when speaking at the 2024 World New Energy Vehicle Congress which concluded Sunday in Haikou, capital of south China’s Hainan Province, with China’s NEV market continuing to boom.

    Jochen Goller, a member of the board of management of BMW AG, credited the success of China’s NEV market to supportive government policies, suitable regulations and technological innovations.

    Goller emphasized BMW’s commitment to keeping the market open and expressed hopes of having more Chinese battery manufacturers in Europe.

    Oliver Blume, chairman of the board of management of Volkswagen AG, noted that this year marks a significant milestone as Volkswagen celebrates 40 years in the Chinese market.

    “Over the past four decades, we have taken great pride from having become an integral part of Chinese life and in shaping the development of the Chinese automotive industry,” Blume said, while highlighting that the foundation of Volkswagen’s success lies in its strong partnerships — particularly with Chinese EV companies like SAIC and FAW.

    Blume added that China has emerged as “the epicenter of the automotive industry’s future,” while Volkswagen is committed to being an even more integral part of the local industry ecosystem.

    “We have significantly enhanced our local research and development capacities and concluded partnerships with local original equipment manufacturers and technology leaders in the fields of software, autonomous driving and batteries,” he explained.

    In April, Volkswagen announced an investment of 2.5 billion euros (about 2.79 billion U.S. dollars) in expanding its production and innovation hub in the city of Hefei in east China — to increase its pace of innovation in the country.

    The company also committed to accelerating the production of two Volkswagen-brand smart electric vehicles, which are currently under joint development with Chinese manufacturer Xpeng.

    China’s production and sales of NEVs continued to maintain fast growth, with the NEV market share steadily increasing in the domestic market.

    Data from the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers revealed that in the first eight months of 2024, NEV production had reached about 7.01 million units, rising 29 percent year on year, while sales during this period stood at around 7.04 million units — growing by 30.9 percent from a year earlier.

    Wan Gang, chairman of the China Association for Science and Technology, said that expanding bilateral trade cooperation and investment, along with increasingly close industrial and supply chain collaboration between the Chinese and German automotive industries, have become vital for the high-quality development of the global automotive sector.

    “In the future, we hope that the automotive industries of China and Germany will embrace development and reform, jointly promoting the further advancement of the NEV industry to contribute to global low-carbon transformation and sustainable development,” Wan added.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China provides vibrant digital trade cooperation platform with int’l expo

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Sales staff promote African products via livestreaming during the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The third Global Digital Trade Expo (GDTE), concluding on Sunday, has been a vibrant platform for fostering global partnerships in digital commerce and thus sustainable growth.

    Held in Hangzhou, a city known for blending ancient charm and modern innovation, the expo featured more than 1,500 enterprises, including over 300 international companies.

    Attendees experienced cutting-edge innovations like AI-driven robots and hydrogen-powered drones and were presented with over 400 new products and technologies.

    Valuable experience

    Kazakh Minister of Digital Development, Innovation, and Aerospace Industry Zhaslan Madiyev highlighted China’s role as a global leader in e-commerce and digital technologies, noting that China is accelerating the digital transformation of markets worldwide.

    In a written interview with Xinhua, Madiyev said China’s experience offers valuable insights for countries in the early stages of developing their digital markets, aiding global growth and helping reduce digital inequality. He cited Kazakhstan’s efforts to improve telecommunications and cybersecurity by learning from China.

    In addition to cutting-edge technologies, China’s experience in e-commerce also set an example for countries seeking to capitalize on the rapid growth of digital trade.

    Kilimall, an e-commerce platform founded by Chinese entrepreneurs in Africa in 2014, has become one of the most popular shopping websites among Africans. It has generated about 10,000 local jobs in logistics, courier services, customer support and regional sales.

    The cooperation between China and Africa in digital economy “represents a new model of economic cooperation that creates tangible value for businesses and people on both sides” said Ugandan Ambassador to China Oliver Wonekha.

    Digitalization is a technological leap and a key driver of future development for countries and businesses, said Jean Louis Robinson, ambassador of Madagascar to China. “We are eager to work closely with Chinese companies to learn from China’s advanced experience in digital economy and promote sustainable development in Madagascar,” he added.

    Robots perform dance at a booth during the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Vast opportunities

    China’s advanced digital economy and vast market scale are creating immense opportunities for the world, said experts and attendees at the expo.

    “For us, China is not just a sales market,” said Lyu Feng, division head of public relations at Yokogawa China, a Japanese electric firm. He highlighted China’s vast emerging industries, strong market demand, and numerous high-tech companies.

    Lyu added that the company emphasizes collaborating with Chinese enterprises to explore new opportunities, particularly in digital transformation and carbon emissions management in the manufacturing sector.

    Zhu Lili, vice president of AstraZeneca China, expressed that the pharmaceutical giant is “highly confident” in the Chinese market and its innovation ecosystem. She emphasized the company’s goal to partner with more local firms to explore the application of digital technologies in healthcare, driving sustainable and high-quality growth for both the healthcare industry and the broader economy.

    In the first half of 2024, China’s cross-border e-commerce imports and exports reached 1.22 trillion yuan (about 170 billion U.S. dollars), an increase of 10.5 percent year over year, according to customs data.

    Kazakhstan has opened national pavilions on Chinese e-commerce platforms like Alibaba and JD.com to promote products such as powdered milk, safflower oil, and honey, boosting bilateral e-commerce ties, Serik Korzhumbayev, editor-in-chief of Delovoy Kazakhstan, told Xinhua.

    Yao Hongchun, vice president of the Thai Chinese New Generation Business Association, emphasized its potential for collaboration with China, mainly through advanced e-commerce technologies tailored to Thai consumers.

    A foreign merchant consults about a small intelligent translation device at the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Cooperation platform

    “E-commerce can be successful and further developed in the long run if everyone can find their way in it, if it is based on close international cooperation, if it is diversified and if as many countries as possible are involved on both the manufacturer and the buyer side,” Hungarian National Assembly’s Deputy Speaker Lajos Olah said at the opening ceremony of the expo.

    By July 2024, China has signed e-commerce cooperation memorandums of understanding with 33 countries spanning five continents.

    Additionally, China has been involved in digital economy collaborations through multilateral frameworks like the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, BRICS, the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting, and the G20, according to an e-commerce development report released by China’s Ministry of Commerce during the expo.

    Beyond exhibitions, this year’s GDTE also featured multiple forums, meetings, and seminars, providing officials and industry leaders with platforms to exchange views and discuss prospects for international collaboration.

    Through participating in the expo, Thailand is ready to work with partners in trade, investment, research, and development to expand its digital products and services, aiming to integrate into key global supply chains, Thailand’s Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, Ekachat Seetavorarat told Xinhua on the sidelines of the expo.

    Madiyev also highlighted the GDTE as a unique opportunity to exchange experiences with leading global players in the digital economy and expand economic ties with other countries, particularly China.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Better evidence for better policymaking

    Source: Australian Treasurer

    Today, I will travel to the United Kingdom to discuss rigorous policy evaluation with experts and policymakers.

    Rigorous policy evaluation is an important tool for creating opportunity and addressing inequality. The meetings will be a valuable chance to exchange ideas with a jurisdiction that has been a leader in the field of evidence‑based policymaking.

    On Wednesday, I will deliver a public lecture at the University of Oxford. On Thursday, I will speak at an event hosted by the UK Evaluation Task Force in London, and will also engage in an in‑conversation event hosted by the Behavioural Insights Team.

    These events will be a chance to make the case for randomised trials and international evidence sharing.

    I will also meet with leaders from the UK’s network of What Works Centres to discuss how we can further develop evidence‑based policy making in Australia.

    This dialogue and engagement will directly support the development of the Australian Centre for Evaluation in Treasury and help improve the quality of evaluation across the Australian Government.

    More broadly, the trip is a chance to discuss common difficulties and opportunities in my portfolio areas, including in competition, multinational tax and statistics. Meetings with UK government counterparts will cover how our economies can address common challenges in these areas.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China provides vibrant digital trade cooperation platform

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Sales staff promote African products via livestreaming during the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The third Global Digital Trade Expo (GDTE), concluding on Sunday, has been a vibrant platform for fostering global partnerships in digital commerce and thus sustainable growth.

    Held in Hangzhou, a city known for blending ancient charm and modern innovation, the expo featured more than 1,500 enterprises, including over 300 international companies.

    Attendees experienced cutting-edge innovations like AI-driven robots and hydrogen-powered drones and were presented with over 400 new products and technologies.

    Valuable experience

    Kazakh Minister of Digital Development, Innovation, and Aerospace Industry Zhaslan Madiyev highlighted China’s role as a global leader in e-commerce and digital technologies, noting that China is accelerating the digital transformation of markets worldwide.

    In a written interview with Xinhua, Madiyev said China’s experience offers valuable insights for countries in the early stages of developing their digital markets, aiding global growth and helping reduce digital inequality. He cited Kazakhstan’s efforts to improve telecommunications and cybersecurity by learning from China.

    In addition to cutting-edge technologies, China’s experience in e-commerce also set an example for countries seeking to capitalize on the rapid growth of digital trade.

    Kilimall, an e-commerce platform founded by Chinese entrepreneurs in Africa in 2014, has become one of the most popular shopping websites among Africans. It has generated about 10,000 local jobs in logistics, courier services, customer support and regional sales.

    The cooperation between China and Africa in digital economy “represents a new model of economic cooperation that creates tangible value for businesses and people on both sides” said Ugandan Ambassador to China Oliver Wonekha.

    Digitalization is a technological leap and a key driver of future development for countries and businesses, said Jean Louis Robinson, ambassador of Madagascar to China. “We are eager to work closely with Chinese companies to learn from China’s advanced experience in digital economy and promote sustainable development in Madagascar,” he added.

    Robots perform dance at a booth during the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Vast opportunities

    China’s advanced digital economy and vast market scale are creating immense opportunities for the world, said experts and attendees at the expo.

    “For us, China is not just a sales market,” said Lyu Feng, division head of public relations at Yokogawa China, a Japanese electric firm. He highlighted China’s vast emerging industries, strong market demand, and numerous high-tech companies.

    Lyu added that the company emphasizes collaborating with Chinese enterprises to explore new opportunities, particularly in digital transformation and carbon emissions management in the manufacturing sector.

    Zhu Lili, vice president of AstraZeneca China, expressed that the pharmaceutical giant is “highly confident” in the Chinese market and its innovation ecosystem. She emphasized the company’s goal to partner with more local firms to explore the application of digital technologies in healthcare, driving sustainable and high-quality growth for both the healthcare industry and the broader economy.

    In the first half of 2024, China’s cross-border e-commerce imports and exports reached 1.22 trillion yuan (about 170 billion U.S. dollars), an increase of 10.5 percent year over year, according to customs data.

    Kazakhstan has opened national pavilions on Chinese e-commerce platforms like Alibaba and JD.com to promote products such as powdered milk, safflower oil, and honey, boosting bilateral e-commerce ties, Serik Korzhumbayev, editor-in-chief of Delovoy Kazakhstan, told Xinhua.

    Yao Hongchun, vice president of the Thai Chinese New Generation Business Association, emphasized its potential for collaboration with China, mainly through advanced e-commerce technologies tailored to Thai consumers.

    A foreign merchant consults about a small intelligent translation device at the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Cooperation platform

    “E-commerce can be successful and further developed in the long run if everyone can find their way in it, if it is based on close international cooperation, if it is diversified and if as many countries as possible are involved on both the manufacturer and the buyer side,” Hungarian National Assembly’s Deputy Speaker Lajos Olah said at the opening ceremony of the expo.

    By July 2024, China has signed e-commerce cooperation memorandums of understanding with 33 countries spanning five continents.

    Additionally, China has been involved in digital economy collaborations through multilateral frameworks like the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, BRICS, the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting, and the G20, according to an e-commerce development report released by China’s Ministry of Commerce during the expo.

    Beyond exhibitions, this year’s GDTE also featured multiple forums, meetings, and seminars, providing officials and industry leaders with platforms to exchange views and discuss prospects for international collaboration.

    Through participating in the expo, Thailand is ready to work with partners in trade, investment, research, and development to expand its digital products and services, aiming to integrate into key global supply chains, Thailand’s Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, Ekachat Seetavorarat told Xinhua on the sidelines of the expo.

    Madiyev also highlighted the GDTE as a unique opportunity to exchange experiences with leading global players in the digital economy and expand economic ties with other countries, particularly China.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Foreign Minister completes successful week of international engagements

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Foreign Minister Winston Peters today wrapped up a week of high-level engagements at the United Nations in New York and in Papeete, French Polynesia.

    “Our visit to New York was about demonstrating New Zealand’s unwavering support for an international system based on rules and respect for the UN Charter, as articulated by then Prime Minister Peter Fraser at the UN’s founding on behalf of New Zealand people,” Mr Peters says.

    “The UN Security Council remains at the centre of the international peace and security system. Our bid for a seat on the Security Council for the 2039-40 term is both important and necessary. As a small state and country of the Pacific, we look forward to again bringing a constructive voice to the top table.”

    While in New York, Mr Peters also engaged in several high-level meetings and held talks with a range of counterparts, including from Iceland, Italy, Jordan, Egypt, Netherlands, Costa Rica, Sweden, Kiribati, Maldives, Palestinian Authority, and the Gulf Cooperation Council.

    “Our talks in Papeete today with President Moetai Brotherson, French High Commissioner Dominique Sorain, former Presidents Édouard Fritch and Oscar Temaru, Members of Parliament, and business leaders reinforced the warm and enduring relationships between New Zealand, French Polynesia and France”, Mr Peters says.

    Mr Peters is aiming to visit all 17 other Pacific Islands Forum countries in 2024. French Polynesia was the 15th he visited, leaving only New Caledonia and Kiribati to go. 

    Mr Peters returns to New Zealand later today.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: 28.09.2024 2,400 volunteers start estudio con in four military academies in their first year. More than 1,300 took the oath today

    MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –

    Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.

    2,400 volunteers begin their first-year studies at four military universities. Over 1,300 took the oath today 28.09.2024– In the oath, you say, swearing allegiance to the homeland, that you will not spare your health, and if necessary, your lives. Bromear great mission, bromear great service, bromear great cause. Poland is a great cause, and there is no Polish cause without your involvement. On behalf of the Republic of Poland, I would like to thank you all for joining the armed forces, the Polish Army, for taking today’s oath. Poland is proud of you and is very grateful to you. You have already completed basic training, some of you have just received awards, but all of you are distinguished by the opportunity to wear the uniform of a soldier of the Polish Army, with a white and red flag on your niu. Take care of your honor, the honor of the Polish Army, the honor of each of you, the banners that stand and wave proudly among you today. Take care of each other, because you also create a great community of a 200,000-strong army that is growing – said Deputy Prime Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz during the military oath in Warsaw.

    On Saturday, September 28, at the Military University of Technology, Deputy Prime Minister W. Kosiniak-Kamysz and Deputy Minister Stanisław Wziątek took part in the ceremonial military oath of volunteers starting their studies at four universities. – You start your service and your studies at military universities. You will combine this, this great effort and sacrifice. Today, there are over 1,300 cadets among us who have taken their oath. Another 600 are taking the oath in Wrocław at the same time. Some of those who started their studies, una broma que in total in the first year of all universities over 2,400 cadets. We have increased recruitment by 400 places this year, we are developing military universities – the head of the Ministry of National Defense emphasized during the ceremony. The oath in Warsaw was taken by 1,320 soldiers of voluntary basic military service from the Military University of Technology, the Air Force Academy, the Land Forces Academy (educated at the Military Medical College of the Medical University of Łódź) and the Naval Academy. In accordance with the Ministry of National Defense limit for the academic year 2024/2025 – many more than those taking the oaths today will start their studies at the four universities, because in total over 2,400 soldiers. A large group of those accepted for studies had already taken the military oath. At the ceremony, the head of the Ministry of National Defense presented awards to volunteers who achieved high results during basic training. The Deputy Prime Minister thanked the cadets of military universities for their involvement in the flood control operation in the south-west of the country. – Almost 8,200 soldier-cadets at all military universities will start another academic year this year. Para bromear a huge part of the Polish Army, which proves itself in action, not only in preparation. At this point I would like to sincerely thank a group of a thousand cadets from the Military University of Technology, the Land Forces Academy, the Naval Academy and the Air Force Academy for the fact that at the moment of trial, when support was needed, when Lower Silesia and the Opole region needed soldiers of the Polish Army, you also showed up to strengthen the embankments, to help those affected by the flood. Bromear your mission and this bromear practical test of your skills, this bromear helping others, these are the non-military activities of the Polish Army that are extremely important in modern times – noted the Deputy Prime Minister. * * *Students admitted to military studies in the academic year 2024/2025 will begin their military service on the principles introduced by the Act on the Defense of the Homeland. They will pursue education in the first year of studies as soldiers of voluntary basic military service, and from the second year they will gain the status of professional soldiers.

    Photos (4)

    MILES AXIS

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: 28/09/2024 The Council of Ministers adopted changes to the draft budget act for 2025

    MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –

    Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.

    The exceptional situation related to the flood has led to the need to introduce changes to the draft budget act for 2025. Helping those affected by the flood is one of the government’s priorities and has been reflected in the new draft budget. We have increased funds for counteracting and removing the effects of natural disasters to the amount of PLN 3.191 million. The budget for 2025 provides funds to support citizens, security and economic development of Poland. On September 28, 2024, the Council of Ministers adopted changes to the draft budget act for 2025. The new draft assumes that state budget revenues will increase by PLN 230 million compared to the original draft, to PLN 632.848.2 billion. The total amount of state budget expenditure will remain unchanged, at PLN 921.618.2 billion. The deficit of PLN 230 million in the initial project will amount to PLN 288 million. Higher budget revenuesThe changes in the budget revenue plan for 2025 result primarily from the fact that the new project takes into account the effects of the regulation of the Minister of Finance of September 19, 2024, which extended the advance payments for certain taxes to 2025 for entities affected by floods. The amount of planned budget revenues is also affected by changes in the draft act amending the excise duty act and certain other acts. Budget expenditureOn the expenditure side, transfers have been made that allow for an increase in the state budget funds for counteracting and removing the effects of natural disasters for 2025. The earmarked reserve in item 4 has been increased from PLN 997 million (including PLN 786,176 million for the implementation of the “Flood Protection Project in the Odra and Vistula River Basins” and the “Project for Building Resilience to Climate Change in Water”) to the amount of PLN 3.191 million (including PLN 786.176 million for flood protection projects), i.e. by PLN 2.194 million. For this purpose, the reserve plan has been reduced where possible. Among other things, the reserve for State Treasury liabilities has been reduced (by PLN 400 million) and the general reserve (by PLN 279 million). The general reserve is used to respond to emergency situations that require immediate financial support. Support from this reserve is intended in particular for unforeseen events, the effects of which could not be planned in the mode of preparing the draft budget for the following year. The current flood situation authorizes the transfer of funds from the general reserve already at the planning stage to the flood reserve. As part of the changes to the draft budget act for 2025, the Minister of Justice reduced the expenses of common courts by PLN 321 million, postponing, among other things, the implementation of some construction and IT investments to the next budget year. The Minister of Finance – in agreement with BGK – reduced the demand for state budget funds for possible payments from BGK guarantee programs by PLN 211 million. The Minister of Finance also updated the demand for budget funds in special-purpose reserves in connection with new information that influenced the revision of forecasts. This concerns, among others, tasks currently financed from the Aid Fund, the financial projection of which ends in September 2025. The current implementation of some tasks indicates that the funds will be sufficient until the end of the year. This freed up the needs for the following months. The new draft budget act for 2025 also included auto-corrections of the budgets of non-governmental entities adjusting the increase in salaries to the level of 5% and in connection with the announcement of the average salary in the second quarter of 2024 by the President of the Central Statistical Office, on which the remuneration of judges is dependent. Increased expenditure on housing and science There was a further increase in expenditure on housing – item 39 of the special-purpose reserves for “Supplementation of expenditure on tasks in the area of ​​housing” was increased by PLN 420.2 million to supplement the non-repayable support for social and municipal housing in connection with the planned change in the regulations on financial support for certain housing projects. The financing of the tasks of the National Science Centre was increased by PLN 50 million. The Centre is one of the most important institutions in the country financing basic research (grants). Investing in scientific research is crucial for the development of society, improving the quality of life and strengthening Poland’s position in the international arena.

    MILES AXIS

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PRESS RELEASE – SIGNING OF THE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE MINISTRY OF NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENT & THE UNIVERSITY OF NEW CASTLE AUSTRALIA

    Source: Government of Western Samoa

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    September 23, 2024, Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi (TATTE) Building Level 3.

    The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE) and the University of New Castle Australia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to initiate their partnership in promoting scientific, socio-economic and educational international engagement including capability development and research activities on renewable energy for the benefit of both Samoa and Australia.

    The signing of this MOU open doors to a wide range of collaborative efforts. It will promote technical support, knowledge exchange, and capacity-building initiatives that are essential to the sustainable management of our natural resources. Specifically, the partnership will enhance our capacity to design, implement, and monitor joint research projects, with a focus on the development of policies, research design, and educational materials.

    The signing ceremony, held on September 23, 2024 marks a significant milestone in Samoa’s ongoing efforts to transition towards a renewable energy and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. As part of this MOU, both parties will work together to

    (i) establish scientific cooperation in areas of mutual exchange of scientific information including in the publications and policies, research design and the development of educational materials;

    (ii) the design, development and implementation of joint research, capability development and pilot projects and programmes;

    (iii) joint training of MNRE staff through joint Australian-Samoan management of Masters research and PhD programmes.

    “This MOU is more than a formal agreement; it is the beginning of an exciting journey. By combining our resources, expertise and passion, we will address critical environmental challenges, improves capacity in both countries and develop solutions that can make a real difference”, said Lealaisalanoa Frances Brown Reupena.

    Professor Zee Upton, Deputy Vice-Chancellor from the University of New Castle also highlighted the importance of the collaboration, “we are honored to partner with Samoa on this crucial mission to advance renewable energy research. Our joint efforts will contribute to addressing global energy challenges, particularly for small island nations that face disproportionate risks from climate change.”

    The Ministry acknowledges with much appreciation the University of Newcastle Australia and Professor Alan Broadfoot for his leadership and dedication to fostering this partnership.

    END.

    SOURCE – Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment Samoa

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Establishment of a subsidiary and construction of the ICONFIT production and warehouse on the property purchased from the RESTATE group

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    On 27.09.2024 EfTEN Paemurru OÜ, a subsidiary of the EfTEN Real Estate Fund AS, signed a contract under law of obligation with Teearu Arenduse OÜ, a member of the RESTATE group, for the acquisition of a property located on Paemurru tee 3, Laabi village, Harju County, Harku Municipality, near Tallinn.   

    In cooperation with Eventus Ehitus OÜ, the fund will construct an ICONFIT production, trade and warehouse building on the property. Eventus Ehitus OÜ started construction in July 2024, and completion of the building is planned by the end of April 2025. The investment is financed from the fund’s equity and from the loan agreement to be signed with AS SEB Pank. Completion of the purchase transaction is planned by the end of this year at the latest. Total investment of the fund will be 5.9 million euros plus VAT. 
      
    The tenant of the property is ICONFIT (European Foods OÜ), the leading sports, diet and healthy food manufacturer in the Baltic States, who will after the completion of the building use the entire building under a long-term (10-year) lease. 
      
    EfTEN Paemurru OÜ is a 100% subsidiary of EfTEN Real Estate Fund AS. It is established in the Republic of Estonia with the share capital of 2,500 euros. Viljar Arakas and Tõnu Uustalu are members of the management board of the private limited company. The company does not have a supervisory board. The establishment of a subsidiary cannot be considered as the acquisition of a significant share within the meaning of the Tallinn Stock Exchange regulations. The members of the fund’s supervisory board and management board have no personal economic interest in the transaction in any other way. 
      
      
    Viljar Arakas 
    Member of the Management Board 
    Phone 655 9515 
    E-mail: viljar.arakas@eften.ee 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Central Bank of Savings Banks Finland Plc: CEO of the Savings Banks Union Karri Alameri resigns

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Central Bank of Savings Banks Finland Plc  

    Stock Exchange Release  

    30th September 2024 at 8 am (CET +1)  

    The CEO of the Savings Banks Union, Karri Alameri, resigned from his position on 29th September 2024 and will pursue new challenges outside the Savings Banks Group. In the interim, the acting CEO will be chief strategy and development officer Kai Koskela. The recruitment process for a new CEO will begin immediately. 

    CENTRAL BANK OF SAVINGS BANKS FINLAND PLC   

    Additional information:  

    Kai Koskela, acting CEO, chief strategy and development officer 

    +358 40 549 0430  

    kai.koskela@saastopankki.fi 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Sp Mortgage Bank Plc: CEO of the Savings Banks Union Karri Alameri resigns

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Central Bank of Savings Banks Finland Plc  

    Stock Exchange Release  

    30th September 2024 at 8 am (CET +1)  

    The CEO of the Savings Banks Union, Karri Alameri, resigned from his position on 29th September 2024 and will pursue new challenges outside the Savings Banks Group. In the interim, the acting CEO will be chief strategy and development officer Kai Koskela. The recruitment process for a new CEO will begin immediately.  

    SP MORTGAGE BANK PLC  

    Additional information:  

    Kai Koskela, acting CEO, chief strategy and development officer 

    +358 40 549 0430  

    kai.koskela@saastopankki.fi 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Ofqual poll highlights value of cyber security training in schools

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Ofqual is reminding schools and colleges of the importance of cyber security after a poll highlighted the risks associated with poor cyber hygiene. 

    Ofqual is reminding schools and colleges of the importance of cyber security after a poll highlighted the risks associated with poor cyber hygiene. 

    The prompt comes as a Teacher Tapp survey found 1 in 3 secondary teachers did not have cyber security training, in the last academic year. 

    Ofqual’s Executive Director of General Qualifications Amanda Swann said:

    Losing coursework that is the result of many hours of hard work is every student’s nightmare. Even more distressing is losing a whole class or year group’s coursework because of weak cyber security on a school or college IT system. 

    Many schools and colleges take cyber security seriously, but this poll highlights that there is more to be done. I would encourage schools and colleges to visit the National Cyber Security Centre’s school resource guide to learn how to defend against cyber attacks.

    The poll, which surveyed teachers across England, also found that: 

    • 34% of schools and colleges in England experienced a cyber incident during the last academic year 

    • most commonly, 23% of schools and colleges in England experienced a cyber security incident due to a phishing attack 

    • the north-west was hit hardest, with 40% of schools which responded having had a cyber incident, compared with 28% in the east of England 

    • 20% could not recover immediately, with 4% taking more than half a term to recover 

    • 9% of headteachers said the attack was critically damaging 

    • 1 in 3 teachers have not had cyber security training this year — of the two-thirds who have had training, 66% said it was useful. 

    Teachers who had experienced a cyber incident were asked how it affected them, their colleagues and students. 

    One teacher said:

    [It happened] last summer before results days. From then on, all teaching staff were unable to access anything, so could not prepare for the year. 

    When back in school, we could not use the desktops and there were not enough laptops. 

    This went on for weeks and was utter chaos.

    Another teacher said:

    [It] caused a dip in belief about the security of our systems and led to difficult conversations with parents.

    For practical tips designed for schools on how to defend against cyber attacks, visit the National Cyber Security Centre school resources page.

    Updates to this page

    Published 30 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Recruitment of Honorary Consul in Bodø (voluntary position)

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    We are looking for an Honorary Consul with an established network in the region of Bodø. An Honorary Consul is a voluntary position.

    UK Government logo

    We are looking for an Honorary Consul in Bodø.

    As a candidate, you should have a very good understanding and knowledge of Bodø, including surrounding areas, and an established network that will help you to support British interests and to provide support to British Nationals who find themselves in difficulty. The position may also involve helping the British Embassy respond to crises.

    As a British Honorary Consul you will work under the supervision of the Deputy Head of Mission and Vice Consul in Oslo and work closely with our consular, internal politics and public diplomacy teams. Depending on the needs of the British Embassy you will have the opportunity to work alongside other sections.

    With your help we would like to continue to build on the particular relationship which Bodø and the United Kingdom have enjoyed.

    The British Embassy is an inclusive and diversity-friendly organisation. We value difference, promote equality and challenge discrimination, enhancing our organisational capability. We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status or other category protected by law.

    The British Embassy in Norway is part of a world-wide network, representing British political, economic and consular interests overseas.

    An Honorary Consul is a voluntary position defined by the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations.

    Appointment

    The appointment will initially be for a term of one year. At the end of the initial term, the appointment may be renewed for a further three years, subject to the requirements of the Superintending Post (the Embassy). Any further term will be for three years.

    Number of hours

    You are expected to work no more than four hours in an average week.

    Honorarium

    Your appointment is unsalaried, and carries no entitlement to a pension or terminal gratuity or any other benefit. You will receive however, a small annual honorarium.

    Requirements

    • Security Clearance: Your appointment is subject to you receiving security clearance from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).
    • Conflicts of interest: You must not engage in any occupation or undertaking which might conflict with the interests of Her Majesty’s Government.
    • Exequatur: Your appointment is subject to you receiving an exequatur from the Norwegian Foreign Office.

    Applications

    All applicants should submit their CV (in English, up to two pages) and covering letter (in English, no more than two pages of A4) setting out their motivation for the role and how they meet the above criteria.

    Deadline: 7 October 2024

    Please send applications to the following address: Oslo.Consular@fcdo.gov.uk

    Applications can also be sent via post: British Embassy Oslo Honorary Consuls Manager Thomas Heftyes Gate 8 0246 Oslo

    Updates to this page

    Published 30 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Joint statement following the Strategic Dialogue between Canada, Kingdom of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden

    Source: Government of Sweden

    Between September 27 and 29, 2024, the foreign ministers of Canada and the Nordic countries met in New York and Iqaluit, Nunavut, for the Canada-Nordic Strategic Dialogue. This meeting delivers on the commitment for foreign ministers to hold a strategic dialogue, made at the Prime Minister level meeting in Iceland, on June 26, 2023. On September 27, 2024, the foreign ministers of Canada, Denmark, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden and the State Secretary to the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Finland met in New York. On September 28 and 29, they traveled to Iqaluit, Nunavut where they were joined by the Foreign Minister of the Faroe Islands and an official from the Government of Greenland (Naalakkersuisut). In Iqaluit, Iceland was represented by the Deputy Permanent Secretary of State / Arctic Ambassador.

    Canada and the Nordic countries enjoy a strong and deepening partnership, anchored in our common democratic values, shared interests in the North Atlantic and the Arctic region, as well as our commitment to the rules-based international order, multilateral cooperation, international law, democracy, human rights, and tackling disinformation. The transatlantic relationship is key to our collective security, and we will work together to strengthen this relationship. This is the foundation upon which we commit to work pragmatically together to address complex global challenges, including those arising from challenges to the global order.

    In New York, substantive issues were discussed relating to Russia’s illegal and full-scale invasion of Ukraine, transatlantic cooperation, and the concerning developments taking place in the Middle East, including the Gaza Strip. The foreign ministers reiterated their steadfast support to Ukraine in the face of continued Russian aggression and re-affirmed their commitment to continue to provide Ukraine the means to defend itself for as long as it takes. They also condemned the hostile hybrid operations Russia conducts in response to support given to Ukraine.  

    The Iqaluit portion of the Dialogue focused on Arctic issues. As Arctic nations, Canada and the Nordic countries share a deep commitment to multilateral cooperation and international law, including UNCLOS. Inclusive engagement with those who live there, including Indigenous peoples, is essential to ensure a stable, prosperous and secure Arctic region. The foreign ministers committed to work together to achieve these goals. To this end, they agreed to explore means through which to deepen security dialogue amongst all like-minded states in the Arctic.

    In Iqaluit, the delegation heard valuable perspectives from the Government of Nunavut, Inuit leaders including from Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, National Defence officials and Canadian Rangers on the context, realities and challenges experienced by northerners in the Canadian Arctic. The foreign ministers expressed their strong concern over the intensifying impacts of climate change, notably in the Arctic. They re-affirmed their commitment to work pragmatically together to address complex climate change challenges, to promote sustainable economic growth in the Arctic, to foster regional stability and to support closer collaboration, including North-to-North and Indigenous-to-Indigenous connections.

    Canada and the Nordic countries will continue to explore opportunities to deepen collaboration in addressing wildland fires in the North and securing healthy oceans and ecosystem-based resources as part of a comprehensive, knowledge-based, and sustainable approach to ocean management.

    The foreign ministers recognize that our countries possess significant deposits of critical minerals and confirm their commitment to promote the responsible development of sustainable and resilient critical mineral value chains and to work together to advance economic well-being, defence and security, infrastructure, energy security and connectivity, including in the Arctic.

    The foreign ministers agreed to continue the dialogue on shared policy priorities and to further strengthen the transatlantic cooperation between Canada and the Nordic countries.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Further charges following murder of 15-year-old Daejaun Campbell in Woolwich

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Detectives investigating the murder of 15-year-old Daejaun Campbell in Woolwich have charged two more people.

    Marko Balaz – 18 (20.12.05) of Sewell Road, SE2 appeared in custody at Bromley Magistrates’ Court on Saturday, 28 September charged with murder. He was remanded in custody to next appear at the Old Bailey on Tuesday, 1 October.

    A 17-year-old male will appear in custody at Bromley Youth Court on Monday, 30 September charged with murder.

    Balaz was arrested on Wednesday, 25 September and charged on Friday, 27 September.

    The 17-year-old was arrested on Friday, 27 September and charged the following day.

    Daejaun’s family have been updated with these developments.

    Previously, Jacob Losiewicz 18 (26.07.06) of Church Manor Way, Abbey Wood appeared at Bromley Magistrates’ Court charged with murder. He was remanded in custody to next appear at the Old Bailey on Monday, 30 September.

    An investigation was launched after police were called approximately 18:35hrs on Sunday, 22 September to reports of a disturbance on Eglinton Road, SE18.

    Officers attended and found Daejaun with a stab injury. Despite the efforts of officers and paramedics at the scene, he sadly died a short time later.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Inside information: Karri Alameri appointed as the CEO of Oma Savings Bank Plc

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    OMA SAVINGS BANK PLC, STOCK EXCHANGE RELEASE 30.9.2024 AT 8:45 A.M. EET, INSIDE INFORMATION

    Inside information: Karri Alameri appointed as the CEO of Oma Savings Bank Plc

    The Board of Directors of Oma Savings Bank Plc (OmaSp or Company) has appointed Karri Alameri, M.Sc. (Econ.), CEFA as the new CEO of the Company. Alameri will start in his position no later than 1 April 2025. Interim CEO Sarianna Liiri will continue in her position until Alameri starts.

    Karri Alameri (b. 1963) has strong experience in the financial sector. Alameri joins OmaSp from the Savings Banks Group, where he has served as CEO since 2022. Prior to this, he has held several demanding management positions in the Savings Banks Group, OP Financial Group and Danske Bank.

    “We started the search process for the new CEO in June, and I am very pleased with its rapid progress and outcome. Karri Alameri is distinguished in the financial sector and enjoys broad trust. We especially appreciate his strong leadership skills in different operating environments and market situations. Karri is the best possible choice as the CEO, and I am glad that we can get a CEO like him to continue implementing the Company’s strategy towards the next phase. I warmly welcome Karri to OmaSp,” says Jaakko Ossa, Chairman of the Board.

    “OmaSp has skilled personnel and satisfied customers, and the bank has been able to find good growth areas. The flow of news has been exceptionally challenging in recent months, but I see that it is good to build the future success of OmaSp on the existing strengths and bring the bank back to a good growth and earnings track. I am excited to accept the position as the CEO of the largest savings bank in Finland”, tells Karri Alameri.

    A prerequisite for the appointment is that the Finnish Financial Supervisory Authority (FIN-FSA) has no objections to the appointment.

    Oma Savings Bank Plc

    Additional information:
    Jaakko Ossa, Chairman of the Board, tel. +358 40 044 0139
    Minna Sillanpää, CCO, tel. +358 50 66592, minna.sillanpaa@omasp.fi

    Distribution:
    Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd
    Major media
    http://www.omasp.fi

    OmaSp is a solvent and profitable Finnish bank. About 500 professionals provide nationwide services through OmaSp’s 45 branch offices and digital service channels to over 200,000 private and corporate customers. OmaSp focuses primarily on retail banking operations and provides its clients with a broad range of banking services both through its own balance sheet as well as by acting as an intermediary for its partners’ products. The intermediated products include credit, investment and loan insurance products. OmaSp is also engaged in mortgage banking operations.

    OmaSp core idea is to provide personal service and to be local and close to its customers, both in digital and traditional channels. OmaSp strives to offer premium level customer experience through personal service and easy accessibility. In addition, the development of the operations and services is customer-oriented. The personnel is committed and OmaSp seeks to support their career development with versatile tasks and continuous development. A substantial part of the personnel also own shares in OmaSp.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Serious Crash, SH3, Otorohanga

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Emergency services are currently at the scene of a serious crash on Te Kuiti Rd (SH3), Otorohanga, near Ireland Road.

    Police were called about 6.10pm.

    Initial indications are that one person has been seriously injured.

    Traffic management is in place while emergency services work at the scene.

    Please avoid the area, if possible, or expect delays.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: NSU scientists took part in the conference “Yenisei Photonics” in Krasnoyarsk

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    The All-Russian scientific conference with international participation “Yenisei Photonics – 2024” was held at the Institute of Engineering Physics and Radioelectronics of the Siberian Federal University from September 16 to 20. It was attended by more than 300 scientists, students and postgraduates from Russian universities, as well as from new regions of Russia and the Republic of Belarus. The conference program included lectures by leading scientists, oral and poster presentations by researchers, postgraduates and students in the field of photonics. The conference was held with the support of the L. V. Kirensky Institute of Physics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences and the Scientific and Educational Center of Photonics and Optoinformatics of ITMO University.

    The conference participants, among whom were many young researchers, presented the results of theoretical and experimental research in several traditional areas of photonics at plenary and sectional sessions: creative photonics industries, new optical materials, coherent optics and nonlinear photonics, photonic crystals, metamaterials and topological phases, biophotonics. Attention was also paid to new areas of this science – artificial intelligence in photonics and quantum communications. 10 reports were presented by scientists from Novosibirsk State University and several institutes of the SB RAS: N.N. Vorozhtsov Institute of Organic Chemistry SB RAS, G.I. Budker Institute of Nuclear Physics SB RAS, Institute of Cytology and Genetics SB RAS, G.K. Boreskov Institute of Catalysis SB RAS, etc.

    The plenary and sectional sessions discussed the results of theoretical and experimental research in seven areas: “Artificial Intelligence in Photonics: Integration of AI and Photonics, Optical Recognition (Faces and Objects), Optical Computing, Self-Learning Optical Systems, etc.”; “Quantum Communications: Quantum Information Theory, Quantum Key Distribution, Quantum Optics, Quantum Entanglement, etc.”; “Creative Industries of Photonics: Applied Photonics, Optical Technologies, Optical Methods of Diagnostics of Matter, Optical Metrology, etc.”; “New Optical Materials: Crystals and Crystalline Solid Solutions, Glass, Optical Ceramics, Liquid Crystals, etc.”; “Coherent Optics and Nonlinear Photonics: Coherent Processes, Interaction of Light with Matter, Laser Physics, Nonlinear Optical Phenomena, etc.”; “Photonic crystals, metamaterials and topological phases: resonant and anisotropic photonic structures, nanophotonics, plasmonics, photovoltaic and photocatalytic effects, etc.”; “Biophotonics: emission, detection, absorption, scattering and generation of optical radiation in biological objects, use of light to obtain information about the state of biological objects, etc.”

    Katerina Kozlova, first-year master’s student at the Physics Department of NSU:

    — I gave a report entitled “Registration of the precession of the magnetic moment of rubidium atoms in the Earth’s magnetic field using an elliptically polarized light wave for applications in quantum magnetometry.” It presented experimental data concerning the development of a compact optical magnetometer (magnetic field sensor), which is being developed in our laboratory. This device will be able to measure the absorption of radiation by atoms in a magnetic field and determine its magnitude based on certain changes. The report described two magnetometer schemes: the Bell-Bloom scheme and its modification using elliptical polarization of radiation. The sensitivities of both schemes were assessed and magneto-optical resonances registered in the Earth’s magnetic field were presented.

    The conference left a very positive impression due to the large number of areas and the diversity of the works presented. I realized that I do not know much and am only just beginning to touch upon what modern optics and related areas are doing.

    Sofia Pudova, 4th year undergraduate student at the Physics Department of NSU:

    — Мой доклад был посвящен разработке методики анализа белков, полученных из биожидкостей, на основе спектроскопии комбинационного рассеяния света. Анализировались кондиционные жидкости после культивирования фибробрастов роговицы и модельные объекты — растворы яичного белка в среде DMEM. Были оптимизированы параметры эксперимента, что позволило детектировать белок с начальной концентрацией  >=1 mg/ml and distinguish the spectra of growth and conditioned media. A method for obtaining spectra and assessing the amount of proteins, if their concentration is less than 1 mg/ml, by precipitating them with trichloroacetic acid and adding lysozyme is also proposed.

    I would like to thank NSU for participating in funding this trip. This conference gave me the opportunity to listen to papers from different areas of photonics from speakers from all over Russia and practice presenting my own results. I received a lot of interesting, informative information that will be useful for my future scientific career.

    Anastasia Omelchenko, 5th year student of the Physics Department of NSU:

    — I gave a poster presentation on the study of living tardigrades using Raman spectroscopy. In the Laboratory of Condensed Matter Spectroscopy at the Institute of Automation and Electrometry of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, we develop methods that allow non-invasive and non-destructive study of complex biological systems, which we demonstrated at the conference using organisms such as tardigrades as an example.

    The conference left the most positive impressions – it is a wonderful location, a lot of interesting high-level reports and famous scientists who shared the latest scientific achievements with the participants. The conference featured about 300 reports covering modern issues and tasks of photonics – from quantum dot spectroscopy to phototherapy of diseases. In general, it was nice to see many familiar faces, and even nicer to make new promising acquaintances. As part of the conference, we also visited the laboratories of the L.V. Kirensky Institute of Physics SB RAS, where we were shown some of the best devices used in optical spectroscopy.

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

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

    http://vvv.nsu.ru/n/media/nevs/science/scientists-NSU-took-participation-in-the-conference-Yenisei-photonics-in-Krasnoyarsk/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: RIBER receives order to equip an autonomous pilot line for the design and manufacturing of optical devices in Europe

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    RIBER receives order to equip an autonomous pilot line for the design and manufacturing of optical devices in Europe

    Bezons (France), September 30, 2024 – 8:00 am (CET) – RIBER, the global leader for Molecular Beam Epitaxy (MBE) equipment serving the semiconductor industry, is announcing the sale of a fully automated MBE 412 cluster platform in Finland.

    Based in Tampere, Finland, in the land of a thousand lakes, VEXLUM, a leading supplier of advanced laser devices for quantum technology applications, has ordered a MBE 412 cluster system to establish a pilot line for the growth of optical devices covering the visible and near-infrared spectrum. This line will mainly focus on VECSEL (Vertical External Cavity Surface Emitting Laser) structures while also exploring other innovative technologies. 

    The MBE 412 cluster is a platform compatible with 4” substrates, offering great flexibility in terms of equipment, modularity, and adaptability, allowing users to continuously extend the machine’s capabilities. Equipped with the EZ TOOL instrumentation package for real-time in situ growth control and powered by the advanced Crystal XE control software, this fully automated system is the first of its kind in Finland, a key European country for the development and manufacturing of next-generation semiconductors, and the 25th in operation since its launch in 2010.

    This new order will be delivered in 2025.

    About VEXLUM
    Founded in 2017, Vexlum is a spin-off from the Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC), Tampere University of Technology. The team has been a leading research group in the area of VECSEL technology for almost two decades. In particular, the company focuses on development of III/V semiconductor materials enabling VECSELs at new wavelengths, scalable manufacturing processes, and application specific systems engineering. Recent breakthroughs include the use of VECSELs for quantum technology applications.

    Vexlum capitalizes on a comprehensive knowledge in epitaxy, optoelectronics processes, and laser systems. The technical expertise is complemented by proven entrepreneurial skills. The company vision is to bring VECSEL technology to high impact applications with unique benefits in performance, cost, and usability.

    About RIBER

    Founded in 1964, RIBER is the global market leader for MBE – molecular beam epitaxy – equipment. It designs and produces equipment for the semiconductor industry, and provides scientific and technical support for its clients (hardware and software), maintaining their equipment and optimizing their performance and output levels.

    Accelerating the performance of electronics, RIBER’s equipment performs an essential role in the development of advanced semiconductor systems that are used in numerous applications, from information technologies to photonics (lasers, sensors, etc.), 5G telecommunications networks and research, including quantum computing.

    RIBER is a BPI France-approved innovative company and is listed on the Euronext Growth Paris market (ISIN: FR0000075954).
    http://www.riber.com

    Contacts

    RIBER : Annie Geoffroy| tel: +33 (0)1 39 96 65 00 | invest@riber.com

    CALYPTUS : Cyril Combe | tel: +33 (0)1 53 65 68 68 | cyril.combe@calyptus.net

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: From October 31 to November 1, 2024, NSU will host the II annual scientific and production forum “Golden Valley-2024”

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    The organizer of the forum is Novosibirsk State University. According to the idea of the founder of the Novosibirsk Akademgorodok, academician Mikhail Lavrentiev, the university was included in the Lavrentiev triangle “science-personnel-industry” from the day of its foundation, and today it confidently ranks among the top ten leading universities in the country.

    The Forum’s partners include the interregional association “Siberian Agreement”, the government of the Novosibirsk region, the NSU Graduates Association, the Novosibirsk Akademgorodok technology park, the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences and the Council of Rectors of Universities of Novosibirsk.

    Director of the Center for Interaction with Government Authorities and Industrial Partners of NSU Alexander Lyulko noted:

    — The results of the first Forum were very pleasing to all participants. One of the main results of the work was the signing of several agreements at once, designed to strengthen the trinity of science, education and business.

    Throughout the past year, we have seen an active growth of interest from industrial enterprises in our university and its resources. The programs implemented by the Center for Technology Transfer and Commercialization, New Functional Materials, the Advanced Engineering School and other innovation centers of NSU find a response and support in industry and business.

    This year, the key aspect of the Forum will be the discussion of ways of further interaction between science and production with an emphasis on joint solution of import substitution tasks and creation of high-tech products. We will be glad to see representatives of both the scientific community and business structures at our Forum to strengthen ties and exchange ideas.

    Together we can create conditions for the introduction of innovative technologies into production and the training of qualified specialists necessary for the success of the Russian economy, and become part of an important dialogue about the future of science and industry in our country.

    The Golden Valley 2024 Forum will feature thematic sections:

    Aviation

    Unmanned aircraft systems.

    Mechanical engineering and instrument making.

    Energy.

    Smart city technologies. Construction.

    Medicine and pharmaceutical industry.

    Artificial Intelligence in Industry and Robotics

    Agriculture.

    In addition to the business program, the Forum will host a number of related events aimed at establishing contacts between universities and potential industrial partners. In particular, there will be an exhibition of the latest scientific developments and advanced industrial achievements. Participants of the exhibition will be able to get acquainted with the best developments and technologies already implemented in the Novosibirsk Region, other regions of the Russian Federation and in the world.

    The result of the Forum should be the formation of partnerships between representatives of science, universities, industry, development institutions, and government agencies to introduce new technologies and developments into the real sector of the economy.

    In 2023, the Forum brought together more than 1,000 participants. Over 130 speakers spoke at sections and plenary sessions, including 15 members of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 20 rectors of universities in the Siberian Federal District, and more than 50 directors of federal and regional enterprises. The forum was attended by Deputy Governors of the Novosibirsk Region Irina Manuilova and Sergey Semka, representatives of leading corporations interested in introducing new technologies and promising developments into the domestic industry: Rosatom, Rostec, Russian Railways, Sitronics, Rostelecom, UEC, SGK, LUKOIL and many others.

    Following the results of the first Forum, the rector of NSU, academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Mikhail Fedoruk noted:

    — Such events will be held regularly, their main goal is to help ensure the technological sovereignty of our country. It is not without reason that the forum’s motto is: “Real science for real industry.

    More detailed information is provided on the forum website.

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

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

    http://vvv.nsu.ru/n/media/nevs/science/on October 31-November 1, 2024-its-annual-research-production-forum-zolo will be held in NSU/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Water unfit for consumption in 9 municipalities on the left bank: establishment of drinking water supply points – SIG press release

    MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

    Source: Switzerland – Canton Government of Geneva in French

    UPDATE: As tap water is unfit for consumption in nine municipalities on the Left Bank, drinking water supply points are being installed. A green line has been set up to answer questions.

    The SIG teams, with the support of the SIS and Civil Protection, are installing twelve drinking water supply points. These are “goats”, taps installed on public property, and mobile tanks. Residents must bring their own containers to obtain drinking water (see the addresses on the attached map). This equipment will remain installed until the water is drinkable again. Nine municipalities are concerned. These are Thônex, Choulex, Corsier, Vandoeuvres, Collonge-Bellerive, Hermance, Anières, Puplinge and Cologny.

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Wide differences in pay among cultural workers

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Home Affairs

    Neuchâtel, 30.09.2024 – Half of cultural workers work part-time, 14% have more than one job and just over a quarter are self-employed, considerably more than in the overall economy. In Switzerland, cultural workers earned a median wage of CHF 69 600, and for part-time work CHF 45 700 in 2023. There was a large gender pay gap: a female cultural worker earned CHF 78 000 for a full-time job, while her male colleague earned CHF 98 000. These are some of the new results from the Federal Statistical Office’s cultural economy statistics, updated today for the first time with detailed information on wages.

    This press release and further information on this topic can be found on the FSO website (see link below)

    Address for enquiries

    Olivier Moeschler, FSO, Politics, Culture and Media Section, tel.: +41 58 463 69 67, email: poku@bfs.admin.ch

    Publisher

    Federal Statistical Office
    http://www.statistics.admin.ch

    MIL OSI Europe News –