Category: Farming

  • MIL-OSI USA: Schakowsky, Markey, Ruiz, Jayapal Introduce Dr. Paul Farmer Memorial Resolution Outlining 21st Century Global Health Strategy 

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (7th District of Washington)

    WASHINGTON — Today, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), U.S. Senator Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz (CA-25), and Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) introduced the Dr. Paul Farmer Memorial Resolution, to honor Dr. Farmer’s staggering life and legacy and lay out his extraordinary vision for realizing global health equity. This resolution lays out a 21st century global health strategy that proposes spending $125 billion annually on global health aid, reforming aid to focus on building national health systems, and putting an end to the exploitation of impoverished countries to increase their domestic tax base and health spending. This resolution seeks to save over 100 million lives per decade by increasing the flow of money in the global economy. 

    “Dr. Paul Farmer is responsible for transforming the lives of millions and millions of poor and marginalized people around the world, bringing them health care, dignity, and justice. A true visionary, Paul insisted that all people have a right to excellent health care, and he developed the systems to deliver it in places people had written off. Gleaming world class hospitals and locally trained doctors, nurses, and community workers now exist in places like Haiti and Rwanda. Paul was not only a world-renowned leader in global health, but also a precious friend and a tireless organizer, inspiring thousands of people to actively participate in his work. All of us owe him a debt that can only be paid by carrying on his mission and legacy,” said Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky. “That is why I am introducing the Dr. Paul Farmer Memorial Resolution alongside my colleagues Senator Markey and Representatives Ruiz and Jayapal. This resolution lays out a 21st Century Global Health Strategy that enshrines Paul’s vision to achieve global universal health care and end unnecessary and preventable deaths. We are the richest country in the world at the richest time in the world. As the Trump Administration rips away lifesaving aid from millions of people, it is more important than ever for those of us who care about global health and justice to rededicate ourselves to building and fully funding a robust global health strategy. Paul called on us to understand global health inequity as an injustice—a result of centuries of violence and exploitation inflicted on the global poor. We can make the choice to end global health inequity, and with Paul’s vision guiding us, we will.” 

    “Dr. Paul Farmer was a health care visionary and revolutionary who understood compassion and care went hand in hand. At a time when global health and well-being are strained, I am proud to introduce this resolution honoring Dr. Farmer and the transformational work he did to deliver health care to people and communities around the world. Health is the first wealth, and we must do everything in our power to ensure that people around the world are healthy, safe, and have access to the resources they need to live and thrive,” said Senator Edward Markey.

    “Dr. Paul Farmer was more than a global health leader, he was my mentor, professor, and dear friend,” said Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz. “From my early years at Harvard Medical School to our work together in Boston, Chiapas, Guatemala, and post-earthquake Haiti, he showed me what it means to fight for underserved communities with unwavering dedication. I am honored to help reintroduce this resolution in his memory, as a testament to his extraordinary impact on humanity.” 

    “Dr. Paul Farmer changed global health for the better with his work in impoverished countries, treating infectious diseases and providing high quality care to those who needed it most. He also fundamentally altered the way we think about international aid, and his organizing and movement building has led to millions of people worldwide living healthier and longer lives. As a lifelong organizer and someone who worked in global health for years before coming to Congress, I know the importance of this work and know how devastating Trump and Republicans’ cuts to USAID and other international aid programs are. This resolution outlines a vision for a world in which we tackle the injustice of global health inequities and treat health care as a true human right. It also recognizes that to achieve these goals, we need to democratize the global financial system, including cancelling predatory debt that has often crushed low- and middle-income countries. I’m proud to co-lead it with Representatives Schakowsky and Ruiz,” said Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal.

    The proposals in the resolution are as follows: 

    • Increase global health aid to $125 billion per year
      • Close the essential universal health care financing gap for low-income countries
      • Allow the U.S. to meet the U.N. aid target of 0.7% GNI for the first time ever
    • Reform global health aid
      • Focus on building national health systems and direct funding to local partners, not the development industry
      • Develop new medical technologies for diseases of poverty and ensure their availability as global public goods
    • Make the global economy more fair, just, and democratic
      • Democratizing the IMF, World Bank, and World Trade Organization, so that poor countries have greater say over decisions that affect their economies and their ability to finance health systems
      • Global debt cancelation for all developing countries that need it
      • Ending harmful licit and illicit financial flows from poor countries—ending global tax havens and illegal practices like trade misinvoicing
      • Supporting global labor rights, such as a global minimum wage

    “In this moment of crisis, we need Paul’s vision for global health justice more than ever. Thankfully, that vision is captured in this resolution. It provides us with a much-needed roadmap for global cooperation based on solidarity and justice by getting to the root causes of unnecessary suffering and death, or what Paul called ‘structural violence’. This includes greatly improving development assistance for health, but also going well beyond aid to address ongoing extractive colonial arrangements, which preclude local investments in health systems,” said Sheila Davis, CEO of Partners in Health.

    As an infectious disease physician, Dr. Farmer earned accolades for treating patients in impoverished countries with high quality care, including those suffering from HIV and cancer. As a medical anthropologist, he was known for popularizing and deepening understandings of “structural violence,” the idea that social systems are designed to impoverish, sicken, and sideline select groups. As chief strategist of Partners in Health, he garnered plaudits for pioneering community-based treatment strategies, building teaching hospitals, and more. Dr. Farmer called on us to understand global health inequity as an injustice—an effect of centuries of violence and exploitation inflicted on the global poor. This resolution embodies that and will serve as a North Star that will guide the movement for global health equity for years to come. 

    In addition to Reps. Schakowsky, Ruiz, and Jayapal, this resolution is cosponsored in the House of Representatives by Reps. Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Betty McCollum (MN-04), Jim McGovern (MA-02), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Juan Vargas (CA-52). 

    In addition to Sen. Markey, this resolution is cosponsored in the Senate by Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA).

    Issues: Foreign Affairs & National Security, Health Care

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Crop Report for the Period July 22 to July 28, 2025

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on July 31, 2025

    Sporadic showers brought much needed moisture and, in some cases, hail to certain areas of the province, while cooler weather brought relief to crops still in flower. Producers are hoping for more moisture to help with head and pod filling, but for many advanced crops, additional moisture will have little impact on yield at this stage. In some areas, a second cut of hay is unlikely due to the lack of moisture and crops are being cut for feed where shortages are anticipated.

    Rain fell in a few areas of the province this past week, but many regions received only trace amounts or no rain at all. The Richmound area reported the most rain this week with 62 millimetres (mm), followed by the Meadow Lake and Alida areas with 47 and 46 mm respectively. Forty-one mm of rain fell in the Carnduff area and 38 mm was recorded in the Oxbow area.

    Variable rainfall across the province was not enough to maintain topsoil moisture in many areas this week. Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as 65 per cent adequate, 28 per cent short and seven per cent very short. Hayland topsoil moisture is rated as 55 per cent adequate, 36 per cent short and nine per cent very short. Lastly, pasture topsoil moisture is rated as 55 per cent adequate, 32 per cent short and 13 per cent very short. Livestock producers would like to see rain soon to ensure their pastures can support their livestock through the end of the growing season.

    Most crops are rated as being in fair to good condition with a small number being rated as excellent and a few as poor. Most crops are showing a slight improvement in condition since the last report. The lowest-rated crops are occurring in the southwest, northwest and parts of the northeast, where conditions are driest.

    The first-cut haying operations are starting to wind down with 11 per cent standing, 21 per cent cut and 68 per cent baled or put up as silage. Hay quality of the first cut is rated as eight per cent excellent, 56 per cent good, 30 per cent fair and six per cent poor. A second cut of hay is not likely in many areas unless a substantial amount of rain is received soon to allow for adequate regrowth. In some areas, haying has been slowed due to sporadic showers.

    The heat, dry conditions, gophers, grasshoppers, flea beetles and aphids were the most reported sources of crop damage this week. In drier areas, the flowering period of crops may be significantly shortened, and producers are concerned about how much this may impact yield. Producers will take action where needed to control pests, such as grasshoppers and aphids, up until harvest.

    As producers prepare for harvest, they are reminded to take safety precautions and preventative fire measures when they can. The Farm Stress Line is available to provide support to producers toll free at 1-800-667-4442.

    A complete, printable version of the Crop Report is available online.

    Follow the 2025 Crop Report on Twitter at @SKAgriculture.

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    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Saskatchewan Proclaims Food Day Canada

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on July 31, 2025

    The Government of Saskatchewan is proud to join provinces across Canada in officially proclaiming August 2 as Food Day Canada. This day serves as a celebration of the individuals and communities who contribute to Canada’s vibrant food system. 

    “Food Day Canada is a great opportunity to recognize the efforts of all the people who contribute to the success of our agriculture sector,” Agriculture Minister Daryl Harrison said. “From producers and researchers to food companies and restaurants, they all have a role to play in delivering safe, sustainable and high-quality food to our tables.” 

    Now in its 22nd year, Food Day Canada is one of the country’s largest and longest-running celebrations of Canadian food and those who produce it. 

    The Government of Saskatchewan remains committed to supporting the province’s diverse and globally-respected agriculture and agri-food sector. Agriculture plays a vital role in the province’s economy and its future growth. The sector is responsible for about 10 per cent of our economy, 36,900 jobs and 41 per cent of our total annual exports. 

    In 2024, Saskatchewan exported $18.5 billion in agri-food products and processed $7.9 billion in value – added products. Our agri-food exports have grown by a third since 2014 as we continue to advance toward our 2030 agriculture-related targets in Saskatchewan’s Growth Plan. 

    The Ministry of Agriculture supports organizations such as Agriculture in the Classroom, Farm & Food Care Saskatchewan, and 4-H Saskatchewan to strengthen consumer awareness about the agriculture sector and its connection to the food they buy, prepare and eat.

    People in Saskatchewan are encouraged to participate in Food Day Canada by trying a new recipe, dining at a local restaurant, or sharing their food stories and photos online using #FoodDayCanada and tagging @FoodDayCanada.

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    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville, Kennedy Call for NATO Members to Increase Defense Spending

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama)

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined U.S. Senator John Kennedy (R-LA) in introducing a resolution urging North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) member countries to fulfill their commitments to spend 5% of their GDP on defense.

    “It’s past time for NATO members to pony up,” said Sen. Tuberville. “It’s not the job of the American taxpayers to pay to defend the entire world. Thank God for President Trump who is finally standing up for American taxpayers and fighting to put America First.”

    “NATO is one of the greatest defensive alliances in all of human history,” said Sen. Kennedy.“My resolution commends our allies for their commitment to allocate 5% of their GDP to our shared defense and strongly encourages them to fulfill their promises in good faith. If we want to deter our adversaries, we need real investments in our defense, not bridges that have little, if anything, to do with national security.”

    Sens. Tuberville and Kennedy were joined by Sens. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Ted Budd (R-NC), John Cornyn (R-TX), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), and Roger Wicker (R-MS) in introducing the resolution.

    Read full text of the resolution here. 

    BACKGROUND:

    The Trump Administration secured a historic win by encouraging NATO member countries to move toward spending 5% of their GDP on collective defense. However, the Hague Summit Declaration allows countries to evade their commitments in two ways: (1) by not specifying that all allies must meet the 5% requirement, and (2) by permitting 1.5% of the total to include spending that is only loosely related to defense. Spain has recently said that it will not be meeting the 5% commitment. Italy has said it may include a bridge to Sicily as part of its non-traditional defense total.

    Specifically, the resolution would:

    • Congratulate President Trump and NATO leadership on this historic agreement,
    • Strongly urge NATO leadership to compel its members to adhere to the 5% commitment, and
    • Call on NATO allies to ensure their non-traditional defense expenditures are legitimate defense spending.

    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville, Risch Introduce Legislation to Protect Firearm Small Businesses

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama)

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-ID), and 16 other Republican colleagues to introduce the Equal Shot Act. The legislation prohibits the Small Business Administration (SBA) from discriminating against firearm-related businesses.

    “For years, the far left has tried to undermine Americans’ right to bear arms. Under Joe Biden, the Small Business Administration tried to cut off capital to firearm businesses in hopes of forcing them to close. That’s not acceptable for the freest country in the world.  In Alabama, we respect the 2nd Amendment. We respect freedom. And we stand with the small business owners who make our communities stronger and our country safer,” said Sen. Tuberville.“I’m proud to join this fight to ensure that lawful firearm-related businesses get the same opportunities as any other small business—no more picking winners and losers based on a political agenda. As a proud gun owner, I will always fight to protect our Second Amendment rights.”

    Joining Sens. Tuberville and Risch in introducing the Equal Shot Act are U.S. Sens. Mike Crapo (R-ID), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Ted Budd (R-NC), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Steve Daines (R-MT), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Jim Justice (R-WV), John Kennedy (R-LA), James Lankford (R-OK), Mike Lee (R-UT), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Tim Scott (R-SC), and Tim Sheehy (R-MT).

    Earlier this week, Sens. Tuberville and Risch also introduced the National Shooting Sports Month Resolution recognizing August as National Shooting Sports Month.

    MORE:

    Tuberville Fights for Second Amendment Rights

    Tuberville Continues to Defend Second Amendment Rights
    Tuberville, Barrasso Push for Pro-Growth Tax Reductions, Lower Prices for Small Businesses

    Tuberville Speaks with Trump Defense Nominees on Supporting Small Businesses and Service Academy Oversight

    Tuberville, Colleagues Celebrate Small Businesses During Small Business Week

    Tuberville Fights to Give Small Businesses a Tax Break

    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Talks Defense Technology and Shipbuilding with Navy Nominees

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama)

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) spoke with Amy Henniger, President Trump’s nominee to be Director of Operational Test and Evaluation, Benjamin Kohlmann, nominee to be Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Manpower and Reserve Affairs, and David Denton, Jr., nominee to be General Counsel of the Department of the Navy during their nomination hearing before the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC). Sen. Tuberville spoke about the need to improve technology in the defense industry, address the challenges many military members are facing, and the importance of shipbuilding to our national security.

    Read Sen. Tuberville’s remarks below or on YouTube or Rumble.

    ON SPEEDING UP DEFENSE TECHNOLOGY TESTING:

    TUBERVILLE: “Good Morning. Congratulations to all of you, and thanks for your service. 

    Ms. Henninger, Huntsville, Alabama is a major hub for innovations in hypersonic space warfare and quantum computing, just to name a few. I don’t need to tell you we’re already years behind our adversaries in these critical technologies.

    What would you do to accelerate the testing and evaluation of critical technologies, especially as threats from adversaries, like China, continue to mature?”

    HENNINGER: “Senator Tuberville, thank you for the opportunity to answer this. I am very familiar with Huntsville. I’ve been there many, many times to Redstone. I worked with the Cyber Red Team there, and I agree [that] it is a hotbed of innovation for the country. I appreciate all the smart people down there. And speed is very, very important. And speed with rigor is even better.

    So, there are a number of levers in place right now that DOT&E can encourage the operational test agencies to employ. They include things like shifting left. They include things like taking advantage of training exercises or operational experimentation exercises. They include things like more tightly integrating DT and OT. The issue, in my view, is that those things are becoming our go-to for surge, and they should be everyday baseline in every test we do. So, I would like to see us move beyond surging with manpower and find […] more automated T&E, more digital methods, digital modeling, to speed and facilitate our test and evaluation processes.”

    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you. Our F-35 program seems to take one step forward and two steps back. How do we fix that?”

    HENNINGER: “Sir, thank you for the question. I’ve been out of the office for four years and […] I’m not tracking exactly what’s going on with the F-35. I haven’t been briefed on it. I know the Block 4 is coming up. I know there’s a lot of classified work on that. I am slightly familiar with it because I worked on it previously. But one of my first steps back into the office would be to come up to speed on all these weapon systems, especially the classified ones that I’ve missed the last four years, and understand where we, where our baseline is and what we’re doing.”

    TUBERVILLE: “You’ll find out pretty quick. Again, it’s a great machine. We just continue to have problems.

    ON WORKFORCE PROBLEMS IN THE MILITARY:

    “Mr. Kohlmann, DOD civilian workforce numbers have exploded in the last two decades while service end strengths have decreased, the tail is eating the tooth and has become an enormous burden to the American taxpayer. Under the previous administration, there were additional protections put in at the request of labor unions to make it harder to fire unperforming employees. What is your plan to fix this bloated bureaucracy?”

    KOHLMANN“Senator, thank you for the question. Coming from the private sector, there were many opportunities when we had to reassess our workforce to understand if it was at the correct size. I think it is appropriate for government to make similar assessments. I want, if confirmed, [to] get in the seat and understand where the core areas’ priority are and if we have to reshift, reshift allocations of civilian workforce from one area to the other or maybe re-rightsize areas as well. I think holding civilians and military personnel to very high standards and holding them accountable for poor performance is critical to driving the change that we need.”

    TUBERVILLE: “Yeah. And also, with a lot of our military bases, brick and mortar is an absolute disgrace. I know […] you’re not going to be over brick and mortar, but we’re going to need your help to fix a lot of that. You know, we’re behind.”

    KOHLMANN“Senator, the state of how our service members live is critical to both retention and recruitment and I look forward to working with the Secretary of Navy. I know it’s a priority of his to make sure that our service members have the right places to live.”

    TUBERVILLE: “Yeah, the quality of life should be a lot better than what it is for a lot of our families. And that’s important for recruiting as we were talking about earlier.”

    ON ADVISING SENIOR LEADERSHIP IN THE NAVY:

    TUBERVILLE: “Mr. Denton, the previous administration flouted the law and used the office [to seek] and many others to advance a political agenda. As the Navy’s top lawyer, can you commit to helping ensure the Navy will follow statute and advise senior leaders in an apolitical manner?”

    DENTON: “Absolutely, Senator.”

    ON SHIPBUILDING:

    TUBERVILLE: “[Do] you see any problems? What do you think will be your number one agenda when you first go into office?”

    DENTON: “Senator, I think that my most important priority, if confirmed, will be supporting Secretary Phelan’s most important priority, which is shipbuilding and getting the battle force back to where it needs to be. That’s going to be a full life cycle effort, throughout the entire acquisition and sustainment process, making sure that we are receiving value for dollar from industry, but at the same time, ensuring that we have the right authorities and the right resources deployed to sustain the fleet and make sure that we have the capabilities that our sailors and marines need to deter and, if necessary, win any fight that might come our way.”

    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you.

    Senator Wicker and I like to hear that word ‘shipbuilding,’ don’t we, Senator?”

    WICKER: “Senator Tuberville, I don’t think we could have had a finer answer to that question.”

    TUBERVILLE: “Exactly right.”

    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Further Modifies the Reciprocal Tariff Rates

    Source: US Whitehouse

    RESTRUCTURING GLOBAL TRADE TO BENEFIT AMERICAN WORKERS: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order modifying the reciprocal tariff rates for certain countries to further address our exploding, annual U.S. goods trade deficits. This decisive action reflects the President’s continued efforts to protect the United States against foreign threats to the national security and economy of the United States by securing fair, balanced, and reciprocal trade relationships to benefit American workers, farmers, and manufacturers and to strengthen the United States’ defense industrial base.

    • On April 2, President Trump announced an additional 10% tariff on all countries, and for countries with which the United States has large trade deficits, he announced higher additional tariffs individualized to each country, effective April 9.
    • A lot has happened since then. For example: 
      • Several countries have agreed to, or are on the verge of agreeing to, meaningful trade deals and security agreements with the United States.
      • Some countries, through negotiations, have offered terms that, in the President’s judgment, do not sufficiently address the national emergency he declared on April 2.
      • Some countries have not negotiated at all with the United States.
    • Based on this additional information and recommendations from senior officials, among other things, the President has determined that it is necessary and appropriate to modify the reciprocal tariff rates for certain countries.
      • Countries listed in Annex I of the Executive Order will be subject to the tariff specified therein.
      • Countries not listed in Annex I will be subject to a 10% tariff.

    STRENGTHENING AMERICA’S POSITION IN THE GLOBAL MARKET: President Trump has reset decades of failed trade policy. Today’s Order underscores President Trump’s commitment to take back America’s economic sovereignty by addressing the many nonreciprocal trade relationships that impact foreign relations, threaten our economic and national security, and disadvantage American workers.

    • President Trump’s bold trade strategy has yielded historic agreements with major trading partners, unlocking unprecedented investments in the United States and expanding market access for American goods. These deals strengthen America’s economic and security positions and create opportunities for American workers, farmers, and businesses.
      • In a massive deal with the European Union, the EU has agreed to purchase $750 billion in U.S. energy and make new investments of $600 billion in the United States, all by 2028, while accepting a 15% tariff rate.
      • Japan has agreed to invest $550 billion in the United States to rebuild and expand core American industries, as well as to further open its own market to U.S. exports, all while paying a baseline 15% tariff rate.
      • The United States-United Kingdom trade deal includes billions of dollars of increased market access for American exports.
      • Additional trade deals with Indonesia, the Philippines, South Korea, Vietnam, and others will protect our industries, open foreign markets, and encourage foreign investment in American industries.
    • These investments position the United States as the world’s premier destination for innovation, manufacturing, and economic growth.
    • President Trump is using tariffs as a necessary and powerful tool to put America First after many years of unsustainable trade deficits that threaten our economy and national security. 
    • President Trump encourages businesses to build and manufacture on American soil: as these countries are aware, they will face no tariff if they decide to build or manufacture products in our country.
      • President Trump has committed that the United States will do everything possible to get approvals quickly, professionally, and routinely to bring back manufacturing jobs for Americans.

    DELIVERING FOR THE AMERICAN PEOPLE: President Trump’s tariff policies have generated significant investment into the United States, strengthening the U.S. economy while addressing unfair trade practices that have disadvantaged American workers for decades.

    • By imposing tariffs on countries with nonreciprocal trade practices, President Trump is incentivizing manufacturing on American soil and defending our industries.
    • With billions in reshoring investments already announced, President Trump is bringing manufacturing jobs back to America, revitalizing communities, and strengthening supply chains.
    • The Administration will continue to use all available tools to protect our national security, advance our economic interests, and uphold a system of trade based in fairness and reciprocity.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall: Jerome ‘Too Late’ Powell

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Senator Marshall Joins the Sean Spicer Show Live
    Washington – On Wednesday, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), joined Sean Spicer on The Sean Spicer Show to discuss the tenure of Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell, the MAHA movement, and whether the Senate will stay or go for the August recess.

    Click HERE or on the image above to watch Senator Marshall’s full interview.
    On the economic growth so far in 2025:
    “What did the first thing I go to is our interest rate, and Jerome ‘Too Late’ Powell, he’s got to be eating a little bit more crow here, in my humble opinion. You know, maybe he should have decreased the interest rate a quarter point a month ago, a quarter point today, and maybe a half point next month. So I think he’s eating a lot of crow.
    “We’re seeing unemployment stay low. We’re seeing inflation down, grocery, [and] gas prices are stabilized… good GDP, and why? You know, this isn’t just happenstance. I’ve never seen an economy and a country’s attitude turnaround in six months like it has. I think a lot of this goes back to rolling back the regulations and really just a re-establishment of law and order and people having faith in this country once again.”
    On whether Jerome Powell should resign or be fired:
    “So I think they’re going to grow louder, but my advice to the President, if he asked for it, is not to fire Jerome Powell. This guy reminds me of a lame duck coach that’s having three losing seasons. I mean, they’re having a horrible season right now, and he should resign.”
    “[If he fires Jerome Powell tomorrow] I will, absolutely, I’ll support the President’s decision. And I think it’s making the play call, right? Someone has to make the play call, and I’d be okay with that. But if Jerome Powell was a man, he should resign. And again, we just have no confidence in him. The economy has no confidence in him. He served his country, in my opinion, not very well. He’s added to the debt. He continues to have an upside-down balance of economic situation there at the Feds as well. I can’t believe that he’s losing money like he has. What they’ve done with quantitative easing is absolutely criminal. It goes back to 2008.”
    On whether the President has the authority to fire Jerome Powell:
    “You’re the political analyst here. I think we have to think about the political side of this as well. I mean, we can get all the lawyers in and all the king’s men in and give us an opinion, but there’s a huge political risk to this. And that’s if I was his advisor, that’s what I’d be talking to him more about. I think it’s one more reason you would go to Jerome Powell, have my chief go to Jerome Powell, and say, here’s the cause. Why don’t you help us all out here and resign and let the country get down the road? Look at just a new chapter, it’s a new day, this is the dawn of a new golden economic era and safety for this country. And it’s best for him to move along and enjoy his retirement.”
    On the trade deficits with the EU:
    “We haven’t sold a cheeseburger in Europe in maybe forever, certainly in this century, right? And we make the best beef in the world. No one can argue that. No one can replicate it. The cattle industry is what’s keeping our ag sector together right now. We’re struggling with our commodities like wheat and sorghum soybeans. So cattle is driving the agriculture industry right now in the state of Kansas. So selling them cheeseburgers is really important.
    “The other issue is ethanol. 40, 50% of our corn crop goes to making ethanol. We have capacity to do more. So selling it to them is a huge, huge opportunity. And remember, if you put the EU together, they’re the number one trade deficit that we have. It kind of caught me off guard, but China’s, I think, is closer to $300 billion and and the EU’s collectively is about $250 billion. So, between these two countries, between the EU and China, is half of our trade deficit.
    “So I think that agriculture is a great opportunity for us to grow back and to shrink that deficit. And want to emphasize all these deals, it’s not necessarily the tariffs that are important to farmers and ranchers. It’s the non-tariff barriers that the EU uses to keep us from selling American beef into that country.”
    On advocating for both farmers and ranchers and the MAHA movement:
    “Yeah, well, Sean, I feel like my whole life, God has prepared me for this moment. To be a fifth-generation ag kid, and spent 25 years in healthcare, managing a diabetic clinic for pregnant women was a big part of my practice. So, I think I’ve been prepared for this particular moment. And being able to have a great relationship with Secretary Kennedy and Secretary Rollins, with the Secretary of Agriculture, and at the same time know what Kansas farmers and ranchers are doing. And we’re doing so many great things already, and sharing that with the MAHA people and helping them to understand that we’re trying to get there.
    “Look, a Kansas farmer doesn’t want to have to use any more fertilizer or pesticide than they have to. They’re very, very expensive. So we’re developing modern regenerative agriculture practices, where we’re decreasing by 90% the drift of those chemicals leaving the field, and we’re using 60% less, again, through precision agriculture, through modern-day technology. So we’re getting there.
    “And I think just what can we do then on the Ag Committee, to help accentuate the positive, to help these early adapters, to spread that love, so to speak, as well. So I’m spending a lot of time educating MAHA on what we’re doing in agriculture, and kind of focusing on soil health. That healthy soil leads to healthy food, leads to healthy people, so motivating farmers to grow that healthy soil.”
    On processed foods and healthier nutrition in America:
    “I think we have a long way to go on what America chooses to eat, and that would be the ultra-processed food. I think that the boogeyman here is the ultra-processed food. I don’t think it. In my humble opinion, I’ve looked at the studies on plant-based seed oil versus fat from animals, and I don’t think that’s the issue. I know that my MAHA people disagree with me. I think it’s that they’re they happen to be using that seed-based oil in ultra-processed food. I think it’s the salt and the sugar that are in the ultra-processed food that’s the actual problem.
    “I think we’ve made huge strides when it comes to these potential toxins. Right now, we only put down most of these pesticides before we plant the seed. So by the time the seeds coming up… there’s minimal around to actually be left in a residue, which is what they call it. And we’re becoming more and more strict on what we’re doing to measure that residue, whether you’re at the a co-op elevator or whether you’re at the milling plant.
    “My sorghum growers especially have adapted these modern practices where they’re using just minimal, minimal, they’re measuring it, they’re proving that indeed, it’s healthy. And you’re concerned about our waters again – 90% less fertilizer is ever leaving the field by modern-day agriculture. So we’re getting there, Sean, but I’m not nearly satisfied…And remember, we’re we’re dads and grandfathers and mothers and grandmothers first. We happen to be farmers, but we want our children to be healthy as well. We certainly you don’t want to go out and misuse these pesticides. You don’t want to be dipping your fingers in it. You don’t want to be breathing it. You need to be using it with the very strictest of techniques.”
    On the FDA approval process of vaccines and doctor-patient relationships:
    “Yeah, Sean, so I don’t have a single answer. Number one is, this is why I think the relationship between the doctor and the patient is sacred. And each person’s an individual. The advice I gave my parents on the COVID-19 shot was different than the advice I gave my children and for their children as well on the COVID shot. Completely, two different risk factor profiles there as well.
    “My big concern here is when vaccines are made, not in the United States. China does knockoffs, and they don’t have the highest safety standards that we do. You know, just recently, I’m going to give you an example, the GLP one drugs. China has been making a knockoff drug, and then they’re sending it to compounders in the United States. And they may not know it’s a knockoff drug, but 14 people have died from using that compounded GLP one this in the past year. Zero people have died from using US-based FDA-approved drugs. So it’s the impurity that scares the death out of me. On the vaccine, the interaction amongst them scares the death out of me.
    “I’ll give you one example. Secretary Kennedy and myself have both said MMR is the best way to prevent measles, but it’s not given until you’re a year of age. It’s been around forever. It’s proven to be safe, and… Measles can actually kill, especially young kids. So my advice is to get the MMR vaccine at age one.
    “On the other hand, the hepatitis vaccine for a two-day-old or one-day-old… who are the risk of people with hepatitis, right? It would be homosexuals and prostitutes, that type of thing… drug abusers, right? That’s who’s at risk for hepatitis. So I don’t see what is there to gain from giving my two-day-old granddaughter the hepatitis vaccine, let their immune system develop a little bit. So the science is not settled. Sean, it’s never settled. And it’s my job as your doctor to keep try to keep up with that and give you the very best advice I can. Sorry, that’s a long answer.”
    On the August recess and President Trump’s nominees:
    “We were elected to do the work of the people. President Trump, 78 million people voted for him, for him to fulfill his mission and his agenda, we need more of these people approved. Look, Chuck Schumer is jamming us right now. He’s doing things that we never did, people that should be easily confirmed by unanimous consent, not take any time up. So if we stay here this August, it’ll be Chuck Schumer’s fault, just like if we end up in some type of financial shutdown in September. This is Chuck Schumer overreacting to AOC and just the psychotic nature right now of the Democrat Party, if that makes sense.
    “So I’m willing to stay. I want to stay, whatever it takes to get these people confirmed; the Senate needs to do its job. Yes, I want to go home, see family, go out and do our town halls, all those types of things I want to do, but my number one mission right now – got The Big Beautiful Bill done – my number one mission right now is to get these people confirmed.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Federated Farmers – Poll shows Aucklanders back farmers on export growth

    Source: Federated Farmers

    A new poll shows strong public support – especially in Auckland – for cutting green tape to boost agricultural exports and help grow the economy.
    The independent poll asked 1000 New Zealanders if regulations, including environmental regulations, should be reduced to allow increases in agricultural production, in line with the Government’s ambition to double exports over the next decade.
    Nationwide, 47% of respondents said yes, 35% said no, and 18% were unsure – but the biggest surprise came from Auckland.
    “In Auckland, 62% of people backed cutting regulation to enable export growth. Only 23% were opposed,” Federated Farmers president Wayne Langford says.
    “That’s a huge vote of confidence from New Zealand’s largest city – and from the block of voters who often decide elections.”
    The poll results should challenge some of the old assumptions about urban-rural divisions, Langford says.
    “Sometimes we hear people in the provinces grumbling about the ‘JAFAs’ not understanding farming, but these numbers tell a different story.
    “It turns out Aucklanders do understand where their bread is buttered, quite literally.”
    He says the poll result s

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Rockabye baby: the ‘love songs’ of lonely leopard seals resemble human nursery rhymes

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Lucinda Chambers, PhD Candidate in Marine Bioacoustics, UNSW Sydney

    CassandraSm/Shutterstock

    Late in the evening, the Antarctic sky flushes pink. The male leopard seal wakes and slips from the ice into the water. There, he’ll spend the night singing underwater amongst the floating ice floes.

    For the next two months he sings every night. He will sing so loudly, the ice around him vibrates. Each song is a sequence of trills and hoots, performed in a particular pattern.

    In a world first, we analysed leopard seal songs and found the predictability of their patterns was remarkably similar to the nursery rhymes humans sing.

    We think this is a deliberate strategy. While leopard seals are solitary animals, the males need their call to carry clearly across vast stretches of icy ocean, to woo a mate.

    Solitary leopard seals want their call to carry.
    Ozge Elif Kizil/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

    A season of underwater solos

    Leopard seals (Hydrurga leptonyx) are named after their spotted coats. They live on ice and surrounding waters in Antarctica.

    Leopard seals are especially vocal during breeding season, which lasts from late October to early January. A female leopard seal sings for a few hours on the days she is in heat. But the males are the real showstoppers.

    Each night, the males perform underwater solos for up to 13 hours. They dive into the sea, singing underwater for about two minutes before returning to the water’s surface to breathe and rest. This demanding routine continues for weeks.

    A male leopard seal weighs about 320 kilograms, but produces surprisingly high-pitched trills, similar to those of a tiny cricket.

    Within a leopard seal population, the sounds themselves don’t vary much in pitch or duration. But the order and pattern in which the sounds are produced varies considerably between individuals.

    Our research examined these individual songs. We compared them to that of other vocal animals, and to human music.

    Listening to songs from the sea

    The data used in the study was collected by one author of this article, Tracey Rogers, in the 1990s.

    Rogers rode her quad bike across the Antarctic ice to the edge of the sea and marked 26 individual male seals with dye as they slept. Then she returned to record their songs at night.

    The new research involved analysing these recordings, to better understand their structure and patterns. We did this by measuring the “entropy” of their sequences. Entropy measures how predictable or random a sequence is.

    We found the songs are composed of five key “notes” or call types. Listen to each one below.

    A low double trill.
    Tracey Rogers UNSW Sydney, CC BY-SA28.5 KB (download)

    A hoot with low single trill.
    Tracey Rogers UNSW Sydney, CC BY-SA53.8 KB (download)

    High double trill.
    Tracey Rogers UNSW Sydney, CC BY-SA29.7 KB (download)

    Low descending single trill.
    Tracey Rogers UNSW Sydney, CC BY-SA49 KB (download)

    Medium single trill.
    Tracey Rogers UNSW Sydney, CC BY-SA22.7 KB (download)

    A remarkably predictable pattern

    We then compared the songs of the male leopard seals with several styles of human music: baroque, classical, romantic and contemporary, as well as songs by The Beatles and nursery rhymes.

    What stood out was the similarity between the predictability of human nursery rhymes and leopard seal calls. Nursery rhymes are simple, repetitive and easy to remember — and that’s what we heard in the leopard seal songs.

    The range of “entropy” was similar to the 39 nursery rhymes from the Golden Song Book, a collection of words and sheet music for classic children’s songs, which was first published in 1945. It includes classics such:

    • Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star
    • Frère Jacques
    • Ring Around a Rosy
    • Baa, Baa, Black Sheep
    • Humpty Dumpty
    • Three Blind Mice
    • Rockabye Baby.

    For humans, the predictable structure of a nursery rhyme melody helps make it simple enough for a child to learn. For a leopard seal, this predictability may enable the individual to learn its song and keep singing it over multiple days. This consistency is important, because changes in pitch or frequency can create miscommunication.

    Like sperm whales, leopard seals may also use song to set themselves apart from others and signal their fitness to reproduce. The greater structure in the songs helps ensure listeners accurately receive the message and identify who is singing.

    Male leopard seals produce high-pitched cricket-like trills.

    An evolving song?

    Leopard seals sound very different to humans. But our research shows the complexity and structure of their songs is remarkably similar to our own nursery rhymes.

    Communication through song is a very common animal behaviour. However, structure and predictability in mammal song has only been studied in a handful of species. We know very little about what drives it.

    Understanding animal communication is important. It can improve conservation efforts and animal welfare, and provide important information about animal cognition and evolution.

    Technology has advanced rapidly since our recordings were made in the 1990s. In future, we hope to revisit Antarctica to record and study further, to better understand if new call types have emerged, and if patterns of leopard seal song evolve from generation to generation.

    Tracey Rogers receives funding from ARC.

    Lucinda Chambers 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. Rockabye baby: the ‘love songs’ of lonely leopard seals resemble human nursery rhymes – https://theconversation.com/rockabye-baby-the-love-songs-of-lonely-leopard-seals-resemble-human-nursery-rhymes-262113

    MIL OSI

  • MIL-OSI USA: July 31st, 2025 Heinrich Urges USDA and DOI to Provide Adequate Resources and Support to Wildland Firefighters, Following Reports of Firefighters Cleaning Toilets

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, sent a letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary (USDA) Brooke Rollins and U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) Secretary Doug Burgum following reports that staff reductions have required the deployment of fire personnel to fill administrative gaps, leaving fire crews understaffed and overwhelmed.

    “Wildfire season is well underway, particularly across the Western United States. Much of the West is predicted to experience higher-than-normal fire behavior through October, and 44 large fires are currently uncontained. With wildfire season likely to continue for several more months, I am extremely concerned by reports that staff reductions have required the deployment of fire personnel to fill administrative gaps, leaving fire crews understaffed and overwhelmed,” Heinrich began.

    “According to recent reports, firings, buyouts, and other personnel changes have led to gross understaffing at both the Departments of Agriculture and the Interior responsible for fire prevention and response, forcing firefighters to wear multiple hats,” Heinrich continued. “In addition to carrying out their own duties, firefighters reportedly have been thrown into serving in administrative and janitorial roles—ranging from cleaning campground bathrooms to answering front desk calls to mowing lawns.”

    Highlighting the impacts of the Trump Administration’s Deferred Resignation Program on firefighting preparedness, Heinrich wrote, “As you know, thousands of staff with red cards left the agencies this year due to the Deferred Resignation Program (DRP). If those personnel roles and responsibilities now must be filled by firefighters at the height of fire season, then the DRP was not only inefficient but has materially threatened public safety.

    In light of these concerns, Heinrich requested information from the Administration on firefighter staffing levels and support personnel since January 2025—including assessments of staffing gaps, data comparing current firefighting levels to the 10-year average, the impact of reassignments, and the number of firefighters serving in administrative or custodial roles. Heinrich concluded the letter by noting the Secretaries’ Joint Memorandum committing to work together to “ensure that wildland fire personnel have the resources, training, and support to work under safe conditions and to effectively carry out their wildland fire management mission.”

    “Since then, you have made assurances that you have the appropriate staff to meet current and future wildfire challenges. However, these recent news reports cast doubt on those assurances,” noted Heinrich.

    Read the full letter here and below:

    Dear Secretary Rollins and Secretary Burgum:

    Wildfire season is well underway, particularly across the Western United States. Much of the West is predicted to experience higher-than-normal fire behavior through October, and 44 large fires are currently uncontained. With wildfire season likely to continue for several more months, I am extremely concerned by reports that staff reductions have required the deployment of fire personnel to fill administrative gaps, leaving fire crews understaffed and overwhelmed.

    According to recent reports, firings, buyouts, and other personnel changes have led to gross understaffing at both the Departments of Agriculture and the Interior responsible for fire prevention and response, forcing firefighters to wear multiple hats. In addition to carrying out their own duties, firefighters reportedly have been thrown into serving in administrative and janitorial roles—ranging from cleaning campground bathrooms to answering front desk calls to mowing lawns.

    This situation is the opposite to that described by Chief Tom Schultz in his “Wildfire Priority” memorandum, dated July 16, 2025, relating to making staff with ‘red card’ qualifications available for firefighting duties. As you know, thousands of staff with red cards left the agencies this year due to the Deferred Resignation Program (DRP). If those personnel roles and responsibilities now must be filled by firefighters at the height of fire season, then the DRP was not only inefficient but has materially threatened public safety.

    In light of these concerns, please provide responses to the following questions by August 14, 2025:

    1. Since January 20, 2025, have your Departments conducted a review or assessment to understand the extent to which staffing gaps exist for firefighting personnel positions? Have you conducted a similar review or assessment on the staffing gaps for firefighting support staff, such as aircraft inspectors, dispatchers, or public information officers? If so, please provide a copy of those reviews or assessments.

    2. You both have noted that your Departments are on pace to achieve their firefighter staffing goals for 2025, but multiple reports indicate extreme gaps in the staffing levels of firefighters, particularly those with enough experience to lead a crew or direct incident response. Please describe the number of firefighters at each General Schedule pay category for this fire year compared with the 10-year average.

    3. To what extent has the Department of the Interior Secretarial Order 3426 “Ensuring National Parks Are Open and Accessible” contributed to the need to assign wildland firefighters to administrative or custodial roles?

    4. Please provide the following data:

    a. The total number of firefighters who have been assigned to administrative or support roles since January 20, 2025. In responding this question, please provide a listing of all non-fire related roles firefighters have been assigned to carry out.

    b. The total number of firefighters who have been assigned to serve in maintenance roles since January 20, 2025.

    c. The total number of fire team support staff who have departed the Department or have agreed to early retirement or entered into a DRP since January 20, 2025. In responding to this question, provide information for each category listed and for each agency.

    In March, you signed a Joint Memorandum committing to work together to “ensure that wildland fire personnel have the resources, training, and support to work under safe conditions and to effectively carry out their wildland fire management mission.” Since then, you have made assurances that you have the appropriate staff to meet current and future wildfire challenges. However, these recent news reports cast doubt on those assurances.

    We look forward to your timely responses to these important questions. Should you have any questions about this request, please contact my staff at (202) 224-4971.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Once-in-a-decade push for the ‘locked out’: Global leaders set for landmark UN conference in Turkmenistan

    Source: United Nations 2

    Backed by the new Awaza Programme of Action, the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries or LLDC3 will push for freer transit, smarter trade corridors, stronger economic resilience and fresh financing to lift development prospects for the 570 million people living in those countries.

    For landlocked nations, geography has long dictated destiny.  

    Trade costs are up to 74 per cent higher than the global average and it can take twice as long to move goods across borders compared to coastal countries. As a result, landlocked nations are left with just 1.2 per cent of world trade.

    UN Video | What to expect from LLDC3 in Awaza, Turkmenistan

    And amid global economic shifts, these countries face the huge risk of being left behind.

    LLDC3 is a pivotal opportunity to reverse this trajectory,” said Rabab Fatima, UN High Representative for Landlocked Developing Countries.

    At its heart, this conference is about people – it is about the millions of children who lack internet or digital tools, the farmers who cannot get their goods to market because of poor roads, and the entrepreneurs whose dreams are held back by border delays and limited access to funding.

    Broad engagement

    The four-day event, from 5 to 8, August will feature plenary sessions, five high-level roundtables, and a Private Sector Forum focused on building partnerships and boosting investment.  

    Dedicated forums with parliamentarians, women leaders, civil society and youth will bring voices from across society into the heart of the discussions.

    UN Secretary-General António Guterres is expected to attend, underlining the urgency of the agenda.

    World Bank/Curt Carnemark

    Many landlocked countries, such as Botswana (pictured) are also on the frontlines of the impact of climate change, highlighting their vulnerability.

    The Awaza Programme of Action

    Central to the conference is the Awaza Programme of Action for 2024-2034, adopted by the UN General Assembly in December.  

    It lays out five priority areas – structural transformation, infrastructure and connectivity, trade facilitation, regional integration, and resilience building – supported by five flagship initiatives.  

    These include:

    • A global infrastructure investment facility to close financing gaps.
    • Regional agricultural research hubs to boost food security.
    • A high-level UN panel on freedom of transit, ensuring smoother cross-border flows.
    • Digital connectivity initiatives to bridge the digital divide.
    • A dedicated landlocked developing countries trade work programme at the WTO.

    © UNICEF/Giacomo Pirozzi

    Women shop at a vegetable market in Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan. Boosting food security is one of the priority areas of the Awaza Programme of Action.

    Turkmenistan

    For Turkmenistan, hosting LLDC3 is both a diplomatic milestone and a statement of intent.

    We are proud to host it on the Caspian Sea coast in Turkmenistan,” said Aksoltan Ataeva, Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the UN.

    We look forward to welcoming [everyone] to Awaza for a transformative, action-oriented conference that puts landlocked countries at the heart of global partnerships.

    Organizers promise state-of-the-art facilities, cultural showcases and networking spaces designed to spur collaboration. Delegates will also experience Turkmen heritage firsthand, from local art to Caspian cuisine.

    UN Photo/Jawad Jalali

    Cross-border infrastructure, such as these power lines, are crucial connections linking LLDCs with the regional and global electric grids.

    The bigger picture

    For the landlocked developing countries, the stakes are existential.  

    These countries are among the most climate-vulnerable, least connected and furthest from global value chains. Without bold action, progress on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development will remain out of reach.

    The destiny of humanity is inseparably linked to the destiny of these countries,” said Diego Pacheco, Ambassador of Bolivia, who currently chairs the LLDC Group at the UN.

    Together, we can unlock the potential of landlocked developing countries – not just for the benefit of our nations, but for the shared future of all humanity and the Mother Earth.

    As the countdown to Awaza begins, expectations are high – not about whether geography matters (it does), but whether global solidarity can transcend its limits.

    LLDC3 aims to prove that it can.

    There are 32 landlocked developing countries, of which 16 are also least developed.

    MIL OSI United Nations News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Federated Farmers – Proposed police cuts a blow for rural Canterbury

    Source: Federated Farmers

    Federated Farmers is deeply concerned by a proposal to shut down rural police stations across Canterbury, calling it a major blow to the safety and wellbeing of farming families.
    According to The Press, Canterbury Police intend to reduce personnel at a number of rural stations and disestablish some roles in favour of larger 24/7 hubs based in Rolleston and Rangiora.
    Bex Green, North Canterbury Federated Farmers president, says the plan has left rural communities reeling.
    “This is not good enough – our community is extremely angry and disappointed about what’s being proposed.
    “Farming families rely on local police stations to feel safe and supported. Closing them down s

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI: Diplomatic Trade Ltd, Thomas J. Kent Jr. the Kent Family Office, and Kent Global LLC Stake Acquisition in Turkish Pharma Firm, Target $300M UAE Biopharma Venture

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Thomas J. Kent Jr.

    DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, July 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Diplomatic Trade Ltd and Kent Global Support Strategic Stake in Turkish Pharma Group, Plan $300M UAE Biopharma Initiative Cross-border biopharma venture targets UAE facility launch in Q3 2025 and public listing by year-end

    Diplomatic Trade Ltd, a cross-border trade and investment firm with offices in New York and Dubai, and its private equity arm, Diplomatic Trade Capital Group, have signed an MOU to acquire a 49% stake in Turkish pharmaceutical manufacturer Farmakim ilaç Kimya Gida Ürünleri Üretim San ve Dis Tie A.S.

    The transaction was supported by U.S.-based Kent Family Office LLC and its affiliated investment firm, Kent Global LLC, led by financier Thomas J. Kent Jr. The deal marks a strategic partnership aimed at strengthening pharmaceutical capacity across Türkiye and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

    Equity Position and Strategy
    Diplomatic Trade Capital’s 49% ownership includes board representation and commercial rights. Financial details were not disclosed, but the acquisition aligns with a broader strategy to scale pharmaceutical infrastructure across emerging markets in MENA.

    UAE Biomanufacturing Facility – Q3 2025
    The partners will establish a UAE-based biomanufacturing facility by Q3 2025. The plant will focus on biosynthetic therapies and regenerative compounds, featuring modular, EU-GMP-compliant production systems and AI-driven quality control. The facility is intended to meet growing demand for advanced pharmaceuticals in the GCC and North Africa.

    IPO Planning and Market Valuation
    The new entity is targeting an initial public offering on a UAE stock exchange in Q4 2025. A global advisory firm is conducting a valuation, with early estimates suggesting a potential IPO valuation near $300 million USD, based on projected revenue growth and regional distribution rights.

    Institutional Investment Backing
    The financing structure was arranged by Kent Family Office and Kent Global, reflecting increased U.S. institutional interest in healthcare investment across the Gulf region.

    Executive Commentary
    “This transaction establishes a platform for scalable pharmaceutical production in the region,” said a Diplomatic Trade Capital spokesperson. “The UAE offers a favorable environment for innovation, regulation, and capital markets access.”

    About Diplomatic Trade Ltd
    Diplomatic Trade Ltd is a U.S.-registered firm focused on cross-border joint ventures and IPOs in healthcare, infrastructure, and strategic manufacturing across the GCC and Africa.

    About Farmakim
    Based in Istanbul, Farmakim is a privately held pharmaceutical company serving public and private healthcare systems across Europe, MENA, and Central Asia.

    Media Contact:
    Shawn Kent
    Kent Global LLC and The Kent Family Office
    646 207 6801
    tkent@kentgloballlc.net
    https://www.kentgloballlc.net/

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6ca9a779-f567-40ae-9944-7f2d25ebde78

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA News: From Coast to Coast, Americans Are Seeing the Benefits of President Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill

    Source: US Whitehouse

    Americans will see the benefits of President Donald J. Trump’s landmark One Big Beautiful Bill for years to come through historic tax relief, strengthened public programs, secure borders, military investments, and much more.

    Here is some of what is being written in local news outlets across the country:

    KCRG-TV (Cedar Rapids, IA): Small businesses say ‘no tax on tips’ a step in the right direction

    “Some business owners in eastern Iowa say new ‘no tax on tips’ provisions will help grow local businesses … It’s a relief some businesses say will make a huge difference with their employees.

    ‘More money in their pocket which will mean more money in the community,’ said Crystal Blin. Blin owns 319 social house, a bowling alley in Independence. She said small businesses can struggle to recruit employees against bigger companies, but no tax on tips means higher take home pay, which could help close the gap. …

    Some view no tax on tips as a reinvestment in their workers and a way to offer some stability. ‘In the service industry too, you’re always constantly worried about what that end of the year number is going to be, and now with this we kind of have some relief with that,’ said Cora Krueger. Krueger is the assistant general manager of Denali’s on the River … ‘The more money we can put in our employees pockets, that means that they can take those dollars and support our local community and surrounding communities,’ Blin said.”

    WENY-TV (Elmira, NY): Seniors Get a Boost: What to Know about the New Senior Tax Break Included in “One, Big, Beautiful Bill Act”

    “A new tax break is heading to seniors’ wallets. It comes in the form of a new deduction tucked into the ‘One, Big, Beautiful Bill Act,’ recently signed into law by President Donald Trump … Starting next year, the IRS is cutting many retirees a bit more slack. Under the new law, individuals age 65 and older can claim an additional $6,000 deduction—on top of the existing standard senior deduction. Married couples where both qualify? That’s a $12,000 tax break.”

    KSTP-TV (Saint Paul, MN): How the new US federal government $1,000 ‘baby bonus’ can help children

    “President Trump’s ‘big beautiful bill’ includes a new savings plan for children with a one-time deposit of $1,000 from the federal government for newborns … For new parents, it’s being called a ‘baby bonus.’ Every baby born this year, next year, and in 2027 will get the bonus, which parents can add to the account.”

    The Charlotte Observer (Charlotte, NC): How the “Big Beautiful Bill” boosts QSBS benefits for startup employees and founders

    “The new GOP budget legislation includes a massive win for startup employees and founders: dramatically expanded Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBS) benefits that could save qualifying investors from paying 28% capital gains taxes on millions of dollars in returns. The changes increase the maximum tax exclusion from $10 million to $15 million while allowing partial benefits after just three years instead of the current five-year minimum.”

    WCMH-TV (Columbus, OH): Anduril, the company behind Ohio’s new megaproject, favored in ‘Big Beautiful Bill’

    “As Anduril Industries ambitiously hopes to open its central Ohio-based drone and vehicular weapons manufacturing plant by July 2026, the defense systems manufacturer is already securing business. Trump’s new government spending bill allocates several billion dollars to border security and includes favorable policies for Anduril.”

    Anchorage Daily News (Anchorage, AK): Alaska has the chance to seize prosperity with the Big Beautiful Bill

    “These investments strengthen Alaska’s role in domestic energy production and in Arctic policy. At a time when global energy markets are uncertain and international competition is increasing, this legislation ensures Alaska is part of the solution. It’s also worth emphasizing that the bill doesn’t relax standards or bypass environmental oversight. It supports development within existing regulatory frameworks and honors Alaska’s history of balancing economic activity with environmental responsibility.”

    Fort Worth Star-Telegram (Forth Worth, TX): Trump signs ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’ into law. How much money will Texans save?

    “Right now, taxpayers can deduct up to $10,000 in state and local taxes from their federal income tax bill. The One, Big, Beautiful Bill Act raises that to $40,000 for 2025. The amount will go up 1% each year in 2026, 2027, 2028 and 2029. There are additional limitations for people earning more than $500,000 a year.”

    Startland News (Kansas City, MO): KC Tech Council celebrates tax fix in Trump’s ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’ that boosts growing businesses

    “A tax fix included in the recently signed ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’ — sprawling legislation meant to overhaul taxes in the United States — marks a major win for Kansas City’s tech and innovation economy, said Kara Lowe. At issue: a long-awaited change to Section 174 research and development expensing that now allows businesses to fully and permanently expense such investments, explained Lowe, CEO of KC Tech Council, which championed the fix alongside TECNA (Technology Councils of North America).”

    WCAU-TV (Philadelphia, PA): Trump’s ‘big beautiful bill’ locks in key tax breaks for homeowners—here’s what to know

    “President Donald Trump’s tax and spending bill revives and expands homeowner tax breaks — while making the current mortgage interest deduction cap permanent. The $750,000 limit on deductible mortgage debt ($375,000 for single filers) had been set to expire after 2025 and revert to the previous $1 million cap. Under the new law, that change is off the table.

    The bill also temporarily raises the SALT deduction cap from $10,000 to $40,000 per household for tax years 2025 through 2029, with a phaseout beginning at $500,000 of income in 2025. The deduction cap reverts to $10,000 in 2030. The change could be especially impactful for homeowners in high-tax states like New York, New Jersey and California, where deductible state and local taxes often exceed the previous $10,000 cap.”

    The Orange County Register (Irvine, CA): Big Beautiful bill delivers win for HSAs

    “Starting Jan. 1, 2026, Americans enrolled in Bronze or Catastrophic Affordable Care Act plans may contribute to HSAs — around 7.3 million people who previously lacked access in 2025. The bill also allows HSA funds to pay for direct primary care memberships — modernizing how Americans can save for and manage health care expenses — and makes permanent the ability of high-deductible health plans to waive the deductible for telehealth visits.”

    KARK-TV (Little Rock, AR): New federal budget includes relief for Arkansas farmers

    “Reference prices — set federal rates that trigger support payments when market prices drop — are one of the most relied-on tools in the farm safety net. For Arkansas rice producers, who say they’ve been using outdated prices from 2012, the new adjustment is expected to make a meaningful difference in margins.

    ‘We hope that this gives us some stability and some consistency where we can make better decisions,’ Coker said. ‘That affects everything — labor, equipment, fertilizer — it all depends on what we can afford.’”

    The Tennessean (Nashville, TN): Big Beautiful Bill includes tax credit for school vouchers: Here’s how much, how it works

    “As an example, if someone donates $1,000, they can later receive a $1,000 credit on their federal tax return, so long as they itemize their tax return and have a tax liability to apply the credit toward. That means the federal government absorbs the cost of the scholarships, essentially making them federal school vouchers.

    The tax credit far outweighs the benefits of a typical tax-deductible, charitable donation. At most, people are allowed to deduct 50% of their adjusted gross income for charitable donations, according to the IRS. In some cases 20% and 30% limits apply.

    ‘This is an unprecedented tax break, at the federal level,’ he said. ‘It’s just a super-sized incentive.’”

    Antelope Valley Press (Los Angeles, CA): President Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill is a step ahead for America

    “President Donald Trump’s ‘Big Beautiful Bill’ is the latest political victory in an action-packed first six months in office. The bill restores some good governance that protects taxpayers and citizens and is a huge boost to working families and entrepreneurs. The bill should increase prosperity and start to slow our unsustainable growth in government spending.”

    MageeNews.com (Mendenhall, MS): The “OBBB” Puts Americans and Farmers First

    “For working Americans including our farmers, ranchers and landowners, the OBBB was and is a series of HUGE ‘wins.’ Perhaps the greatest win was the significant tax relief delivered to all hardworking Americans. Recognizing that ‘Farm Security is National Security,’ these wins through the OBBB will strengthen our American producers for years – for generations – of future farm families.”

    The Berkeley Independent (Summerville, SC): 529 updates in ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’ give families even more flexibility for educational savings

    “As administrator of South Carolina’s Future Scholar 529 Plan, I’m happy to share that the recent passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act spells good news for South Carolina families who are using tax-advantaged 529 savings plans to save for their children’s education. The bill expands qualified uses for 529 funds, providing greater flexibility for families and making an already effective program even more beneficial.”

    Agweek (Fargo, ND): ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’ enhances farm program safety net

    “The large reconciliation bill, or the so-called ‘One Big Beautiful Bill,’ was passed by Congress and signed into law in early July … there are some adjustments and enhancements in the legislation that could be very beneficial to farmers, including increased reference prices and improved crop insurance provisions. … Approximately 90% of the added funding for ag-related programs in the reconciliation bill is targeted to farm ‘safety net’ programs, such as PLC, ARC-CO, crop insurance, and the Dairy Margin Coverage Program.”

    Sen. Marsha Blackburn (The Chronicle of Mt. Juliet, Mt. Juliet, TN): One Big Beautiful Bill is a victory for American people

    “On Independence Day, President Trump made history. He signed into law the One Big Beautiful Bill—a once-in-a-generation victory that fulfills his promise to Make America Great Again. By providing the largest tax cut in our nation’s history, it will supercharge our economy. Tennessee households will save an average of $2,600 in taxes next year and see an average annual take-home pay increase of over $10,000. With the largest-ever investment in border security, it empowers the Department of Homeland Security to complete President Trump’s border wall and hire thousands of new Border Patrol agents. It also bolsters our military, enacts common-sense permitting reforms to make America energy dominant again and eliminates hundreds of billions of dollars in far-left, Green New Deal spending, putting our nation on a more sustainable fiscal path.”

    Sen. Katie Britt (The Alexander City Outlook, Alexander City, AL): The one big beautiful bill delivers for Alabama

    “There’s been a lot of national conversation about how transformational this bill is. But let’s talk about what it means for Alabama. To start, Alabamians can expect to keep more of their hard-earned money because of this bill. We extended President Trump’s 2017 tax cuts and, as a result, prevented the largest tax hike in modern history. Alabama families were staring down an average of a $2,200 tax increase—we made sure that didn’t happen. We made sure to take care of our seniors as well, who will now be able to deduct up to $6,000 – $12,000 for couples filing jointly – from their taxes annually.”

    Sen. Mike Crapo (The Post Register, Idaho Falls, ID): A stronger future for Idahoans

    “Responsibility to Idaho taxpayers: The law also achieves the most significant spending reductions in history by slashing Green New Deal spending, eliminating tax loopholes, and rooting out waste, fraud and abuse in federal spending programs. When combined with the pro-growth elements of President Trump’s economic agenda, the Council of Economic Advisers estimates the United States will achieve nearly $4.5 trillion in deficit reduction over ten 10 years.”

    Sen. Steve Daines (Clark Fork Valley Press, Plains, MT): Big Beautiful Bill is a win for Montana

    “President Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill is a tremendous win for Montana. It will spur economic growth, strengthen border security as well as expand Montana’s energy sector and provide much-needed funding for our military. And thanks to the diligent work of the entire Montana congressional delegation, we defeated attempts to sell our public lands.”

    Sen. Deb Fischer (Syracuse Journal-Democrat, Syracuse, NE): How the One Big, Beautiful Bill Delivers Tax Relief to Nebraska Families

    “When Americans went to the polls last November, they sent a clear message. They want a government that prioritizes safer neighborhoods, more affordable energy, and real economic relief — especially for working families. Earlier this month, Congress responded with a tangible solution. We stopped a $4 trillion tax hike and advanced a law that locks in the economic policies that have helped families and small businesses thrive. This new law cements the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) into permanent policy, preserving critical tax benefits for families across the country. For the average Nebraska household, that means $2,400 a year in savings — money that can help pay for groceries, utilities, or a child’s education.”

    Rep. Ken Calvert (The Desert Sun, Palm Springs, CA): Tax Relief on the way for Coachella Valley taxpayers

    “The Coachella Valley is home to a unique mix of residents, including large populations of retired senior citizens and employees who support the region’s tourism economy. Despite the different demographics of these two groups, they will both see targeted benefits from the recent working family tax law I voted to pass earlier this month. Retired Americans who live on a fixed income rely heavily on the Social Security and Medicare benefits. Protecting those benefits is a top priority for our seniors – and it’s one of my top priorities, too. I promised the seniors I represent that I would not cut their benefits, and the recent tax and spending bill that was signed into law honors that commitment. There are no cuts to either Social Security or Medicare benefits in the bill.”

    Rep. Jeff Crank (The Colorado Springs Gazette, Colorado Springs, CO): Why I voted in favor of the One Big, Beautiful Bill

    “The One Big, Beautiful Bill, some of the most conservative legislation worked on in Congress, delivers the largest tax cuts in American history, ensures no tax on tips or overtime, protects Medicaid for our nation’s most vulnerable, increases defense spending, secures our borders and more. The bill promises a prosperous future for our country, yet there are some who continue to promote falsehoods about what this bill does. As the Representative for Colorado’s 5th Congressional District, it is my duty to outline why I voted for this bill. Let’s get this straight: the One Big, Beautiful Bill protects the Medicaid system for the most vulnerable and those that truly need it; benefits for pregnant women, children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities would see no changes with their Medicaid plans.”

    Rep. Randy Feenstra (The Gazette, Cedar Rapids, IA): ’Big Beautiful Bill’ grows our economy

    “For farmers and small businesses, the ‘One, Big, Beautiful Bill’ protects millions of smaller operations and businesses from excessive taxation by raising the death tax exemption. These entities also will benefit from doubled small business expensing, immediate R & D expensing, and deductions on qualified business income. It also increases reference prices for corn and soybeans, strengthens crop insurance, and fully funds foreign animal disease prevention, mitigation, and response.”

    Rep. Brett Guthrie (The Owensboro Messenger and Inquirer, Owensboro, KY): Here’s the truth: The One Big Beautiful Bill actually strengthens Medicaid

    “The Medicaid provisions included in the One, Big Beautiful Bill ensure our most vulnerable Americans continue receiving the support they need. It strengthens the program by removing deceased recipients from the Medicaid rolls, requiring states to conduct more frequent eligibility checks for the expansion population, ensuring that individuals are not enrolled in multiple states and enacting commonsense work requirements for able-bodied Americans who choose not to work. Additionally, our bill expands access to Home and Community Based Services for low-income seniors and individuals living with a disability.”

    Rep. Lisa McClain (The Detroit News, Detroit, MI): Big Beautiful Bill is a win for Michiganians

    “This landmark legislation combines common-sense reforms with bold investments in our communities. At its heart, the bill is about rebuilding the American dream from the ground up; making it more affordable to live, work and raise a family in Michigan. Whether you’re running a small business, working long shifts at a restaurant or raising kids, this bill will make your life better.”


    Rep. Tom Tiffany (Wausau Pilot & Review, Wausau, WI): What the One Big Beautiful Bill means for you

    “The bill also raises the Child Tax Credit to $2,200 per child and establishes a $1,000 investment account for American newborns, helping give every child a head start. It also supports working parents by expanding the Employer-Provided Child Care Credit, encouraging more businesses to offer affordable child care.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: More Than $13 Million for Maine’s Health Care Workforce Advanced by Senator Collins in Funding Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that she advanced $13,085,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending for health care workforce training in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Labor, Health, and Human Services, and Education Appropriations bill. The bill, which was officially approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee today, now awaits consideration by the full Senate and House.

    “Maine and states across the country continue to face a shortage of trained health care workers and are struggling to meet the growing demand for medical treatments and services,” said Senator Collins. “This funding would support important programs throughout Maine that are dedicated to filling these gaps in our nation’s health care workforce. As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to advocate for this funding as the appropriations process moves forward.”

    This funding advanced through the Committee’s markup of the FY 2026 Labor, Health, and Human Services, and Education Appropriations bill—an important step that now allows the bill to be considered by the full Senate.

    Funding advanced by Senator Collins is as follows: 

    CMCC Nursing Education Equipment Enhancement

    Recipient: Central Maine Community College (CMCC)

    Project Location: Auburn, ME

    Amount Requested: $1,000,000

    Project Purpose: To purchase nursing education equipment. 

    EMCC Nursing and Allied Health Education Simulation Expansion

    Recipient: Eastern Maine Community College (EMCC)

    Project Location: Bangor, ME

    Amount Requested: $6,510,000

    Project Purpose: To construct and equip a nursing and allied health care simulation laboratory and learning center on campus.

    Health Care Training Center Renovations

    Recipient: University of Maine Farmington

    Project Location: Farmington, ME

    Amount Requested: $1,900,000

    Project Purpose: For facilities and equipment to support a new Health Care Education Center.

    Health Care Training Equipment Upgrades

    Recipient: University of Maine System

    Project Location: Presque Isle, ME

    Amount Requested: $1,500,000

    Project Purpose: To purchase equipment for the health care profession programs at the University of Maine Presque Isle.

    NMCC Nursing and Allied Health Education Simulation Expansion

    Recipient: Northern Maine Community College (NMCC)

    Project Location: Presque Isle, ME

    Amount Requested: $650,000

    Project Purpose: To purchase labor and delivery simulation equipment.

    Growing Maine’s Dental Workforce

    Recipient: Children’s Oral Health Network of Maine

    Project Location: Statewide

    Amount Requested: $525,000

    Project Purpose: To purchase equipment to train independent practice dental hygienists.

    Maine Statewide CNA Training Program

    Recipient: Hanley Center for Health Leadership and Education DBA Maine Medical Education Trust

    Project Location: Statewide

    Amount Requested: $1,000,000

    Project Purpose: To support certified nursing assistant training for long-term care.

    In 2021, Congress reinstituted Congressionally Directed Spending. Following this decision, Senator Collins has secured more than $1 billion for hundreds of Maine projects for FY 2022, FY 2023, and FY 2024. As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, Senator Collins is committed to championing targeted investments that will benefit Maine communities.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley Questions Treasury Nominee on Biofuels, Wind and Solar Provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), a senior member and former chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, today questioned Treasury Department nominee Derek Theurer on the implementation of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

    Grassley asked whether Theurer would advise the Treasury Department to maintain its longstanding interpretation of “began construction.” Grassley requested a timeline on formal guidance for implementing the clean fuels tax credit to provide Iowa’s biofuels industry greater certainty.

    Grassley also questioned Bryan Switzer, nominee to be Deputy U.S. Trade Representative, about America’s trade balance with China. 

    [embedded content]

    VIDEO

    On Wins on the One Big Beautiful Bill Act

    The One Big Beautiful Bill was an historic achievement. We averted the largest tax increase in history. It made pro-growth business provisions permanent. It unlocked business investment that will create jobs. The bill also provides additional middle-class tax relief.

    Implementing the Bill as Congress Intended

    As Treasury works to implement the bill, the agency must work with members to ensure the provisions are implemented according to the statute and faithful to congressional intent.

    So, the first question is a very general one. Can we count on you to keep Congress well informed during the implementation process and consult with [relevant] members of Congress where questions arise as to what was congressional intent?

    Wind and Solar Provisions, 45Z Implementation

    There are several provisions that I’m particularly interested in, in seeing faithfully implemented. This includes the structure of the phase-out for the wind and solar credits and modifications to the Clean Fuels Production Credit. And, remember, you’re talking to the father of the Wind Energy Tax Credit.

    I worked with my colleagues to provide wind and solar an appropriate glide path for the orderly phase-out of the tax credits. Ultimately, Congress enshrined in statute a 12-month transition period based on when projects “begin construction.”

    What it means for a project to “begin construction” has been very well established by Treasury guidance for more than a decade. Moreover, Congress specifically references current Treasury guidance to set that term’s meaning in law. It seems to me, this is a case where both the law and congressional intent are very, very clear.

    So, Mr. Theurer, will you commit to advising the Department that both the law and congressional intent are clear and that the “beginning of construction” – those official words – means what it has meant for more than a decade?

    Impact of the Clean Fuels Credit on Biofuels

    The reconciliation bill includes an extension and modification of [the] Clean Fuel[s] Production Tax Credit under 45Z. Implementing this credit properly and quickly is important for the biofuels industry and its participants, especially farmers. The Biden administration failed to meaningfully address 45Z regulations, which has caused major market disruptions, including plant closures.

    When can we expect to see guidance formally implementing the clean fuels credit so the biofuels industry can confidently move forward with operations?

    America’s Trade Balance with China

    You will be handling areas of international trade, and I’m interested in China. Based on your personal history, you know how challenging this will be. Do you think that the whole United States economy needs to decouple completely from China, or only certain sectors of our economy?

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News

  • Cabinet approves ₹2,000 crore grant to NCDC; Amit Shah thanks PM Modi for strengthening cooperative sector

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Amit Shah, on Thursday expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi after the Cabinet approved a grant assistance of ₹2,000 crore to the National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC) for the next four years.

    The grant will be disbursed at ₹500 crore per year, with the objective of boosting the cooperative sector, particularly in rural areas. Shah highlighted the move as a step forward in realising the Prime Minister’s vision of ‘Sahkar Se Samriddhi’ (Prosperity through Cooperation).

    “In line with PM Modi ji’s mantra of ‘Sahkar Se Samriddhi’, the NCDC is playing a crucial role in strengthening the rural economy. This financial support will help cooperatives launch new projects, expand existing infrastructure, and offer loans, thereby benefiting crores of members,” Shah said in a post on X. He added that the initiative would empower women to become self-reliant and generate employment opportunities for the youth.

    In another post, the Home Minister also welcomed the Cabinet’s decision to approve an expenditure of ₹6,520 crore under the ‘Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana’ (PMKSY), including an additional allocation of ₹1,920 crore. As part of the scheme, 50 multi-product food irradiation units and 100 food testing laboratories will be set up across the country. Shah stated that these facilities will aid in food preservation, ensure better safety and quality standards, and help farmers fetch higher prices for their produce.

    Further, Shah lauded the Cabinet’s approval of four railway multi-tracking projects covering 13 districts in six states from the eastern, central, and western regions. These projects, with a total outlay of ₹11,169 crore, will add 574 km to the country’s railway network. According to the minister, this will not only improve connectivity but also boost trade and industry, while opening up fresh avenues for employment.

  • MIL-Evening Report: Marine climate interventions can have unintended consequences – we need to manage the risks

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Emily M. Ogier, Associate Professor in Marine Social Science, University of Tasmania

    Stock for you, Shutterstock

    The world’s oceans are being rapidly transformed as climate change intensifies. Corals are bleaching, sea levels are rising, and seawater is becoming more acidic – making life difficult for shellfish and reef-building corals. All this and more is unfolding on our watch, with profound consequences for marine ecosystems and the people who depend on them.

    In response, scientists, governments and industries are trying to intervene.
    People all over the world are experimenting with new ways to capture and store more carbon dioxide, or make up for damage already done.

    Ocean-based climate actions include breeding more heat-tolerant corals, restoring mangroves, and farming seaweed. Such interventions offer hope, but they’re also inherently risky. Some may be ineffective, inequitable or even harmful.

    The pace of innovation is now outstripping the capacity to responsibly regulate, monitor and evaluate these interventions. This means current and future generations may not be getting value for money, or worse – the chance to avoid irreversible change may be slipping away.

    In our new research, published in Science, we reviewed the latest evidence on known and perceived risks of new ocean-based climate interventions. We then gathered emerging ideas on how to reduce those risks.

    We found the risks aren’t being widely considered, and the benefits are unclear. But there are emerging assessment tools and planning frameworks we can build on, to plan ocean-based climate actions that meet humanity’s climate goals.

    The promise and peril of marine climate interventions

    Marine climate interventions vary in scope and ambition. Examples can be found all over the world. These include:

    Some interventions are still at proof-of-concept stage, and several have been tested and abandoned. Others are facing challenges owing to complexity of monitoring and verification.

    Each has its own set of benefits, costs and risks. For example, making the ocean more alkaline may help to squeeze in more carbon from the atmosphere, but it’s difficult to verify how much carbon has been removed. This makes it hard to justify the costs and the potential damage to ecosystems, such as effects on local fish populations.

    Restoring coral can support biodiversity in the short term, but it may not last as warming exceeds their (modified) ability to adapt. This type of intervention is also expensive and labour-intensive, with unintended emissions from energy-intensive processes. So it may be impossible to scale up.

    Seaweed farming at scale would occupy thousands if not millions of square kilometres of oceans, displacing fishing, shipping and conservation. Harvesting 1 billion tonnes of seaweed carbon would require farming more than 1 million square km of the Pacific Ocean, and would deliver just 10% of the annual atmospheric carbon dioxide removal required to limit global warming to 1.5°C.

    It’s doubtful whether seaweed farming would actually remove carbon from the atmosphere. But seaweed farming can – if well-planned – produce a range of other climate-related benefits.

    Moreover, interventions often overlap in space and time, creating cumulative impacts and unintended consequences. In some cases, the projects may displace other users, undermine Indigenous rights, or erode public trust in climate science and policy. Without careful understanding and planning, these efforts could exacerbate the very problems they aim to solve.

    Governance gaps and ethical dilemmas

    One of the most pressing challenges is the lack of regulation and oversight suited to the scale and complexity of marine climate interventions.

    Existing regulations are often outdated, fragmented, or designed for land-based systems. Few countries have biosafety laws for the ocean. This means many interventions proceed without comprehensive risk assessments or community consultation.

    Ethical dilemmas abound. Who decides what constitutes a “healthy” ocean? Who bears responsibility if an intervention causes harm? And how do we ensure benefits — such as improved livelihoods or climate resilience — are equitably distributed?

    Currently, scientists, funding bodies and non-government organisations do the bulk of the decision-making. There is limited input from governments, local communities and Indigenous Peoples. This imbalance risks perpetuating historical injustices and undermining the legitimacy of many ocean-based climate actions.

    Ocean Alkalinity Enhancement has been proposed for St Ives in Cornwall.
    diego_torres, pixabug, FAL

    Toward responsible marine transformation

    We identified opportunities for scientists, policymakers, and funding bodies to work together more effectively on more comprehensive assessments of interventions.

    Guidelines and insights are emerging from experimental-scale research into capturing and storing “blue” carbon in ocean and coastal ecosystems. Similarly, a non-profit organisation in the United States has developed a code of conduct for marine carbon dioxide removal. However these guidelines are yet to be integrated into broader governance frameworks.

    Awareness of the urgent need to ensure intervention is done responsibly is also growing. Many high-level policy documents now recognise the importance of transitioning to more sustainable, equitable, and adaptive states. For example, the Samoa Climate Change Policy 2020 recognises the need to adapt coastal economies and communities to warming oceans, while also working to reduce carbon emissions.

    We can use the ocean in our fight against climate change (United Nations)

    Proceed with caution

    The ocean is central to our climate future. It absorbs heat, stores carbon, and sustains life. But it is also vulnerable — and increasingly, a site of experimentation. If we are to harness the promise of ocean-based climate action, we must do so with care, humility, and foresight.

    Responsible governance is not a barrier to innovation — it is its foundation. By embedding ethical, inclusive, and evidence-based principles into our marine climate strategies, we can chart a course toward a more resilient and equitable ocean future.

    Emily M. Ogier receives salary support from the Australia Research Council. She receives funding from The Nature Conservancy, the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation and the Blue economy Centre for Research Excellence. She is affiliated with the Centre for Marine Socioecology.

    Gretta Pecl receives funding from the Australian Research Council, Department of Agriculture Water and the Environment, Department of Primary Industries NSW, Department of Premier and Cabinet (Tasmania), the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation, The Ian Potter Foundation and has received travel funding support from the Australian government for participation in the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change process. She is affiliated with the Biodiversity Council and the Centre for Marine Socioecology.

    Tiffany Morrison receives funding from the Australian Research Council Laureate and Discovery Programmes, WorldFish-CGIAR ( (formerly the Consultative Group for International Agricultural Research), and The Nature Conservancy Science for Nature and People Partnership.

    ref. Marine climate interventions can have unintended consequences – we need to manage the risks – https://theconversation.com/marine-climate-interventions-can-have-unintended-consequences-we-need-to-manage-the-risks-262343

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall: Interest Rates Need to Come Down

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Senator Marshall Joins Fox Business to Discuss Interest Rates and Trade Deals
    Washington – On Thursday, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), joined Fox Business to discuss the Federal Reserve’s refusal to lower interest rates, and how the President’s trade strategy isn’t harming Americans but will get us leverage on our geo-political rivals.

    Click HERE or on the image above to watch Senator Marshall’s full interview
    On the Federal Reserve not raising interest rates:
    “Well, I wasn’t surprised, because there’s a reason that President Trump calls him Jerome ‘Too Late’ Powell. Let’s go back to March of 2021, and Jerome Powell says inflation is going to be transitory. It’s 18 months later, and it’s just starting to peak, and it’s not a couple months after that before it starts coming down. So, he is indeed always too late.
    “And let me put an exclamation point behind what President Trump is saying. To that average Kansas farmer back home, they have an operation loan of a million dollars. We saw interest rates on those loans go from 2% to 9% and that’s what caused a record drop in net farm income. So, he’s right. Every point matters. And I’m not saying we should drop at two or three points, but dropping at a quarter point or a half point, come on. I think that the economy would dictate that. Now we don’t know what’s holding up Jay Powell, except he’s always too late.”
    On the real impact of the trade deals President Trump has secured:
    “Well, I’m going to trust Michelle Bowman, of course. She’s from Council Grove, Kansas, but let’s just think about this for a second. Of all the goods that Americans consume, only about 11% of them are imported. Only 11%. So, let’s just suppose there’s a 10% tariff on 11% of what we consume. Well, my little math says that’s going to be a 1.1% increase, assuming that’s all passed along to the consumer, and you know, it’s not going to. So, I think that these tariffs could cause a one-time hit of one or 2%, but I think the manufacturers are going to absorb a lot of that. The wholesalers are going to absorb a lot of that as well.
    “And meanwhile, we’re trying to balance this trillion-dollar trade deficit. So, I think President Trump is right on task. Look at what he’s doing; Cambodia and Thailand today, he’s surrounded China. He’s got Indonesia done, Japan, Australia, Vietnam, the Philippines, [and] South Korea. So, he’s going to push China. They’ve got till August. The 12th is their deadline, I believe. So, President Trump is doing a good job.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: More than two in five people in the English- and Dutch-Speaking Caribbean struggle for daily meals

    Source: World Food Programme

    BRIDGETOWN, BARBADOS – Nearly 3.2 million people in the English and Dutch-speaking Caribbean are food insecure, according to the latest Food Security and Livelihoods Survey by the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). In 2025, 30 percent of Caribbean people reported eating less than usual; which is in line with the trend over the last 4 years arising from increased food costs that accompanied global geopolitical factors.

    Across the Caribbean, nations face food-related challenges due to their geographic remoteness, lack of locally available resources and exposure to climate worsening.

    “The Caribbean is particularly vulnerable to natural hazards and supply chain disruptions, which can cause rapid increases in food prices. It’s deeply concerning that many people are struggling to afford the food they need. Strengthening and diversifying supply chains and trade routes across the region is essential. These efforts will help make food more accessible and affordable, while supporting faster recovery in times of crisis,” said Brian Bogart, WFP’s Representative and Country Director in the Caribbean.

    Rising food prices are a major concern for the region, with food inflation consistently outpacing overall inflation rates. Nearly all respondents, 94 percent, report higher food costs in the months leading up to the survey. One-third of households also experienced job loss or reduced income, putting further strain on already stretched budgets.

    Local production efforts are being challenged by rapidly increasing operational costs. Among farmers, 85 percent report rising prices for animal feed and tools or machinery, 81 percent note higher fertilizer prices, and 73 percent cite increased seed costs. These burdens are particularly heavy in a region that relies significantly on imported agricultural inputs.

    CARICOM’s Director of Sectoral Programmes, Ambassador David Prendergast noted, “As we commence our successor programme 25 by 2025+5, we must stress the importance of data to inform our strategic interventions in achieving greater food and nutrition security.”

    Investing in adaptive social protection and emergency preparedness will be essential to cushion the impacts of future shocks which threaten people’s access to food. In an environment marked by hazards, robust social protection mechanisms provide a safeguard, whilst integrating strategies to assist where the need is greatest. Access to data is essential to deliver these mechanisms. The survey and the recently launched real-time food real-time food security monitoring system by CARICOM and WFP, will play a key role in identifying emerging needs early and supporting timely decision-making.

    The Food Security and Livelihoods survey is made possible through the support of the Government of Canada and the European Union. It is part of the partnership between CARICOM and WFP to support CARICOM’s efforts to understand, track, and address food insecurity across the English- and Dutch-speaking Caribbean.

    #                #            #

    The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.

    Follow us on X, formerly Twitter, via @wfp_media @wfp_Caribbean
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Japan contributes towards food and nutrition security in Lesotho

    Source: World Food Programme

    Maseru– The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) today welcomed a contribution of JPY 200 million (approximately US$1.36 million) from the Government of Japan to support the national school feeding programme in Lesotho. Over the next year, this funding will provide nutritious meals to 50,000 pre-primary learners across the country.

    The contribution will ensureuninterrupted access to hot, nutritious school meals, boosting attendance and learning outcomes. It will also expand the home-grown school meals programme, linking smallholder farmers to schools and strengthening Lesotho’s local food systems.

    “We highly appreciate Japan’s continued support to Lesotho,” said Mr Elliot Vhurumuku, WFP Representative and Country Director in Lesotho. “Over the past five years, their contribution has enabled WFP to sustain the Government’s national school feeding programme while strengthening climate resilient food systems and sustainable livelihoods in Lesotho.” 

    Lesotho is currently recovering from the impact of a devastating drought, while grappling with economic shocks. With a high unemployment rate, rising food costs and declining household purchasing power, urgent action is needed to prevent even greater numbers of people from sliding into food insecurity.

    “Given Lesotho’s socio-economic challenges, driven by multiple, complexed factors including drought, Japan is glad to be able to assist in developing Lesotho’s food security, which will help meet the dietary needs of those affected, households,” said H.E. Shimizu Fumio, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to the Kingdom of Lesotho.” We hope that this food assistance will help meet the dietary needs of those affected, households, thus improve the nutritional status of children.”

    The Government of Japan is a long-standing partner of WFP in Lesotho, being a leading supporter of WFP’s school feeding programme, providing vital funding over the past 10 years to sustain WFP’s initiatives of supporting the national school feeding programme.

    #                 #                   #

    The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impact of climate change.

    Follow us on X, formerly Twitter, via @wfp_media, @WFP_SAfrica and @evhurumukuwfp

    MIL OSI United Nations News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Shoreditch becomes new al fresco dining hotspot thanks to Mayor of London’s new Summer Streets scheme

    Source: Mayor of London

    • Redchurch Street and Rivington Street in Shoreditch host weekend al fresco dining thanks to funding from the Mayor
    • Sadiq’s Summer Streets Fund is helping four boroughs to create al fresco dining and drinking hotspots across the capital, ahead of further action to boost London’s nightlife
    • Deputy Mayor for Business, Howard Dawber OBE, visits local businesses who are benefitting from the new Summer Streets scheme

    For the first time ever, independent bars and restaurants on Rivington Street and Redchurch Street in Shoreditch will be offering al fresco dining and drinking, thanks to funding from the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan.

    Londoners and visitors will be able to enjoy outside dinner and drinks every Friday and Saturday from tonight until the end of the year, with the roads closed to traffic from 6pm to midnight.

    The new outdoor eating and drinking area in Hackney is one of four new schemes that the Mayor is funding across the capital through his £300,000 Summer Streets Fund. The funding is part of Sadiq’s commitment to increase outdoor dining and extend opening hours to offer more choice to Londoners and help support businesses. This is ahead of the

    Mayor being granted new licensing powers from the Government to help boost the capital’s nightlife.

    In Shoreditch, a wide range of businesses are taking part in the new al fresco dining. Londoners and visitors can enjoy a variety of cuisines from around the world from:

    Other sites being supported by the Mayor’s Summer Streets Fund include schemes across Lambeth, Waltham Forest and Westminster. In Leyton, Francis Road is extending car free hours, with outdoor dining in Leyton Midland Road. In Brixton, there are more car free days on Atlantic Road and “Brixton Summer Zone”, with outdoor seating and live performances to be officially launched later this month. Soon bars and restaurants on St Martin’s Lane in the heart of the West End will also be able to provide open air dining and drinking.

    Creating new al fresco dining spots is one of many initiatives by the Mayor to support London’s hospitality, leisure and tourism sectors. For example, he has also created an independent Nightlife Taskforce to help boost the capital’s life at night. These industries are critical to the success of the capital, as well as growth nationally, generating more than £46 billion every year* and accounting for one in 10 jobs in London. In the last year, the number of late-night hospitality sites in London has grown faster than anywhere else in the country.

    The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “I’m delighted to be able to support bars and restaurants in Shoreditch to offer al fresco dining from today. Through my Summer Streets Fund we are helping to put outdoor dining back on the menu, supporting businesses and helping Londoners and visitors to make the most of the summer. I’m determined to do all I can to support London’s fantastic restaurants, cafes and bars, and these schemes are just the beginning of what’s to come as we continue to work with partners across the capital to revitalise our nightlife and build a better London for everyone.”

    Howard Dawber OBE, Deputy Mayor for Business, said: “The Mayor’s Summer Streets Fund was designed to empower local businesses, stimulate enterprise and provide exciting opportunities for Londoners and visitors. It’s just one of the ways we are helping to boost London’s night time economy, and it’s great to see this new scheme bringing outdoor dining to Shoreditch tonight.”

    Cllr Susan Fajana-Thomas, Hackney Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Regulatory Services, said: “We are thrilled that Hackney has been chosen by the Mayor of London to participate in the Summer Streets al fresco dining scheme, which I believe will significantly boost our world-renowned nightlife. By pedestrianising Rivington Street and Redchurch Street on Friday and Saturday nights, we can offer more space for residents and visitors, in particular families, to enjoy some of the fantastic venues and food Shoreditch has to offer, with increased outdoor seating. I am excited to support this scheme as I believe it will be great for businesses and residents.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Japan and WFP provide emergency food assistance to families impacted by floods and droughts in Burundi

    Source: World Food Programme

    BUJUMBURA – The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has welcomed a contribution of US$1 million from the Government of Japan to provide lifesaving food assistance to 18,000 people affected by floods and droughts in Burundi.

    A ceremony was held in Bujumbura today to mark the contribution. The ceremony was attended by Mr Pontien Hatungimana, Burundi’s Permanent Secretary to the Minister of National Solidarity, Social Affairs, Human Rights, and Gender, H.E. Mr Isao Fukushima, Ambassador of Japan to Burundi and Jean-Noël Gentile, WFP’s Country Director in Burundi.

    “Frequent floods and droughts are shattering livelihoods and worsening food insecurity in Burundi, particularly within rural communities, where more than 85 percent of the population relies on subsistence farming for survival,” said Jean-Noël Gentile, WFP’s Country Director in Burundi. “This generous contribution from the Government of Japan is vital in supporting the daily food needs of vulnerable people as they rebuild their lives.” 

     
    From September 2023 to June 2024, heavy rain caused floods and landslides in Bujumbura and Burunga Provinces, affecting more than 300,000 people and displacing over 47,000. Meanwhile, drought conditions caused by below-average rainfall in Butanyerera Province resulted in crop and income losses for smallholder farmers.

    “I am pleased to proceed to today’s ceremony. This project aims at providing food assistance to the most vulnerable people in Burundi based on the philosophy of Human Security. I sincerely hope that with the expertise of WFP in Burundi, as many Burundians as possible could spend better lives in dignity,” said H.E. Mr Isao Fukushima, Ambassador of Japan to Burundi. “Japan has been a good partner of WFP in Burundi, and we have implemented eight joint projects since 2010.”

    The Government of Japan is a major contributor to WFP in Burundi, providing more than US$12 million in support since 2019.

    #                #            #

    The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.

    Follow us on X (formerly Twitter) via @WFP_Africa
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Technical mission to Ghana on the deployment of Système Interconnecté de Gestion des Marchandises en Transit (SIGMAT) between Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire

    Source: APO – Report:

    .

    From the 21st to 25th of July 2025, the ECOWAS Commission conducted a technical mission to Ghana as part of transit reforms aimed at ensuring the efficient cross-border movement of goods in the region. To this end, an IT solution called SIGMAT – “Système interconnecté de gestion des marchandises en transit” (Interconnected System for the Management of Goods in Transit) – was established to enable the electronic exchange of data between Member States.

    Since the launch of SIGMAT in 2019, the Member States that have implemented this tool have reported its significant impact on transit procedures and the benefits it has brought to the countries.

    It is in this context that ECOWAS Ministers from the Member States of the Abidjan-Lagos Corridor (ALCO), meeting in Cotonou on the 5th of October 2023, requested the ECOWAS Commission to ensure the prompt deployment of SIGMAT in the five Member States of the corridor. This is to facilitate the smooth cross-border movement of goods along the corridor.

    Consequently, the ECOWAS Commission carried out a technical mission to Ghana from 21st to 25th July 2025 to assess and address the interconnection challenges between Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire in order to ensure seamless SIGMAT connectivity along the Abidjan-Lagos Corridor. The mission brought together technical and functional experts from the Commission, Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana.

    During a meeting with the Commissioner of Customs of Ghana, the Director of Customs Union and Taxation, Mr. Salifou TIEMTORE, on behalf of the ECOWAS Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture, Mrs. Massandjé TOURE-LITSE, reiterated the commitment of the ECOWAS Commission to support Member States in their efforts to ensure the deployment of SIGMAT on all trade corridors to facilitate the efficient movement of goods in the region.

    For his part, the Commissioner of Customs of Ghana, Brigadier General Glover ASHONG ANNAN, expressed the Ghana Revenue Authority’s gratitude to the ECOWAS Commission for this timely intervention aimed at securing transit trade in the ECOWAS region and reducing transit-related fraud that threatens the revenues and security of Member States.

    At the end of the mission, the technical and functional challenges hindering the proper functioning of transit between Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana were resolved.

    – on behalf of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Calls for Vote on Bipartisan CANADA Act Ahead of Trump’s  August 1 Tariff Deadline 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    CANADA Act would exempt U.S.-owned small businesses from tariffs imposed on Canada 
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), a member of the Senate Finance Committee, this week pushed for a vote on his bipartisan Creating Access to Necessary American-Canadian Duty Adjustments (CANADA) Act, legislation to exempt United States-owned small businesses from tariffs imposed on Canada. Senate Republicans blocked the unanimous consent request and refused to support small businesses in their states.  
    Senator Welch took to the Senate Floor to slam the Trump Administration’s plan to increase tariffs and enact new sweeping global tariffs on August 1. Senator Welch also spoke in support of his bipartisan bill, the CANADA Act: 
    “This trade war is yet another example of the Trump Administration’s chaos, cruelty, and corruption: Chaos for Vermont’s small businesses, farmers, and manufacturers who don’t know what to expect day-to-day; Cruelty for America’s working families, who will pay more because of this reckless trade policy; and Corruption by President Trump himself, who has created an access economy focused on self-dealing,” said Senator Welch in his remarks. “I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support the CANADA Act, and in-turn support small businesses in their state.” 
    Watch Senator Welch’s floor remarks here: 

    The CANADA Act is led by Senator Welch and cosponsored by Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.). The CANADA Act is supported by Main Street Alliance and Small Business Majority. 
    In 2024 alone, trade with Canada accounted for 35% of Vermont’s exports, 67% of its imports, and 56% of its total trade. One in four businesses in Vermont relies on trade with Canada. Vermont buys more goods from Canada than the next nine largest foreign markets combined. In 2023, Vermont exported $150 million just in food and agricultural products to Canada.  
    Vermont boasts nearly 82,000 small businesses, which represent 99% of all businesses in the state, and employ over 62% of Vermont’s overall workforce—higher than the national average. Small businesses in Vermont also employ a diverse workforce, with 43.8% of small businesses in the state owned by women and 6% owned by veterans. 
    Senator Welch has blasted Trump’s tariffs and trade war and shared stories from constituents about how President Trump’s economic policies have impacted their businesses, farms, and communities. Senator Welch is a cosponsor of a bipartisan resolution to repeal the tariffs on Canada, a bipartisan bill to restore congressional tariff authority, a bill to restrict the Executive Branch’s authority to impose tariffs through the International Economic Emergency Powers Act, and a bill to exempt small businesses from the April 2nd global tariff Executive Order. Senator Welch also led a bipartisan resolution to end President Trump’s ruinous global tariffs.      
    In May, Senator Welch joined a bipartisan delegation and traveled to Ottawa to meet with Canadian dignitaries, including Prime Minister Mark Carney, to discuss bipartisan support for a U.S.-Canada partnership and their commitment to a strong trading relationship between the United States and Canada. The Senator has hosted roundtables in Stowe, Newport, St. Albans, Manchester, and virtually to hear concerns and first-hand stories from Vermont and Canadian leaders impacted by the trade war. 

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Doehler Dry Ingredient Solutions, LLC Recalls Member’s Mark Freeze Dried Fruit Variety Pack for Listeria monocytogenes Contamination

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    Summary

    Company Announcement Date:
    July 30, 2025
    FDA Publish Date:
    July 31, 2025
    Product Type:
    Food & BeveragesFoodborne Illness
    Reason for Announcement:

    Recall Reason Description
    Potential Foodborne Illness – Listeria monocytogenes

    Company Name:
    Doehler Dry Ingredient Solutions, LLC
    Brand Name:

    Brand Name(s)
    Member’s Mark

    Product Description:

    Product Description
    Freeze dried fruit

    Company Announcement
    Cartersville, GA – 7/30/2025 – Doehler Dry Ingredient Solutions, LLC is recalling Member’s Mark Freeze Dried Fruit Variety Pack 15 count boxes, UPC 1 93968 50900 2 due to contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, a Listeria monocytogenes infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.
    No illnesses have been reported to date.
    Products affected are:

    PRODUCT 

    SIZE 

    UPC 

    LOT/MFG CODES 

    USE BY DATE 

    Member’s MarkFreeze Dried FruitVariety Pack

    15 count

    1 93968 50900 2

    25175

    06/24/2027

    Member’s MarkFreeze Dried FruitVariety Pack

    15 count

    1 93968 50900 2

    25176

    06/25/2027

    Member’s MarkFreeze Dried FruitVariety Pack

    15 count

    1 93968 50900 2

    25177

    06/26/2027

    Member’s MarkFreeze Dried FruitVariety Pack

    15 count

    1 93968 50900 2

    25181

    06/30/2027

    Member’s MarkFreeze Dried FruitVariety Pack

    15 count

    1 93968 50900 2

    25182

    07/01/2027

    Member’s MarkFreeze Dried FruitVariety Pack

    15 count

    1 93968 50900 2

    25183

    07/02/2027

    Member’s MarkFreeze Dried FruitVariety Pack

    15 count

    1 93968 50900 2

    25184

    07/03/2027

    Member’s MarkFreeze Dried FruitVariety Pack

    15 count

    1 93968 50900 2

    25186

    07/05/2027

    Member’s MarkFreeze Dried FruitVariety Pack

    15 count

    1 93968 50900 2

    25188

    07/07/2027

    Member’s MarkFreeze Dried FruitVariety Pack

    15 count

    1 93968 50900 2

    25189

    07/08/2027

    Member’s MarkFreeze Dried FruitVariety Pack

    15 count

    1 93968 50900 2

    25190

    07/09/2027

    Member’s MarkFreeze Dried FruitVariety Pack

    15 count

    1 93968 50900 2

    25191

    07/10/2027

    Member’s MarkFreeze Dried FruitVariety Pack

    15 count

    1 93968 50900 2

    25192

    07/11/2027

    Member’s MarkFreeze Dried FruitVariety Pack

    15 count

    1 93968 50900 2

    25196

    07/15/2027

    Member’s MarkFreeze Dried FruitVariety Pack

    15 count

    1 93968 50900 2

    25197

    07/16/2027

    Member’s MarkFreeze Dried FruitVariety Pack

    15 count

    1 93968 50900 2

    25198

    07/17/2027

    Member’s MarkFreeze Dried FruitVariety Pack

    15 count

    1 93968 50900 2

    25199

    07/18/2027

    Member’s MarkFreeze Dried FruitVariety Pack

    15 count

    1 93968 50900 2

    25202

    07/21/2027

    Member’s MarkFreeze Dried FruitVariety Pack

    15 count

    1 93968 50900 2

    25203

    07/22/2027

    Member’s MarkFreeze Dried FruitVariety Pack

    15 count

    1 93968 50900 2

    25204

    07/23/2027

    Member’s MarkFreeze Dried FruitVariety Pack

    15 count

    1 93968 50900 2

    25205

    07/24/2027

    Member’s MarkFreeze Dried FruitVariety Pack

    15 count

    1 93968 50900 2

    25206

    07/25/2027

    The firm discovered the problem via internal testing of their products. The products were distributed between 7/1/2025-7/25/2025 and sold in Sam’s Club retail stores. These products were packaged in foil pouches inside a corrugated box. The lot number and expiration date are located on the bottom of the case. Product was shipped to distribution centers in the following states: AL, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, LA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, PA, PR, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, WI, WV, WY. Consumers who have this product in their possession should not consume the product. They should discard it and may visit any Sam’s Club for a full refund.
    Consumers with questions may contact Doehler Dry Ingredient Solutions, LLC’s Customer Service at 770-387-0451, Monday-Friday 8am-5pm EST.
    This recall is being made with the knowledge of the Food and Drug Administration.

    Company Contact Information

    Consumers:
    Doehler Dry Ingredient Solutions, LLC’s Customer Service
    770-387-0451

    Product Photos

    Content current as of:
    07/31/2025

    Regulated Product(s)

    Topic(s)

    Follow FDA

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Charting a mine-free future: The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) and Italy convene Libya’s first Mine Action Support Group

    Source: APO


    .

    The United Nations Support Mission in Libya and the Government of Italy brought together international partners for the first Libya Mine Action Support Group in Tripoli on Tuesday, which focused on better protecting the people of Libya from mines and unexploded ordnance.

    The meeting aimed to enhance coordination among donor states, facilitate discussion on mine action activities in Libya, and highlight critical funding gaps and priority needs to better coordinate support to the sector.

    “Supporting mine action in Libya is not just about clearance. It is about protection, dignity, and hope,” said Special Representative of the Secretary General, Hanna Tetteh. What Libyans cannot afford is more contamination, more loss, and more fear. Libya needs stability, not more explosive hazards.”

    Despite relative calm in parts of Libya, mines and unexploded ordnance from sporadic clashes and long-standing contamination continue to endanger civilians. Since 2020, more than 420 casualties have been recorded due to explosive remnants of war. However, these figures do not reflect the full reality, they only represent the confirmed incidents.

    SRSG Tetteh urged the international community to focus on the value of every life impacted. “We must never measure suffering in numbers,” she said. “The life of one child, one farmer, one worker; each life holds equal value. Every step towards safety and recovery matters.”

    The meeting was hosted by the Ambassador of Italy to Libya, Gianluca Alberini, who welcomed participants with a message of solidarity and emphasized the urgency of collective responsibility. Italy remains a steadfast partner in Libya’s path to safety and stability,” he said. “Our commitment to mine action is rooted in our belief that every life saved, every community cleared, is a step toward peace.”

    The Chief of the Mine Action Programme in Libya, Fatma Zourrig, delivered a presentation on efforts to clear explosive hazards in Libya, strengthen national capacity, and called for sustained support to ensure long-term safety and stability. As of mid-2025, over 438 million square meters remain contaminated. Since 2011, mine action partners have cleared nearly 248 million square meters, while delivering between 2023-mid 2025 more than 13,600 risk education sessions to over 104,000 beneficiaries, including thousands of women and girls.

    Significant institutional progress was also highlighted. The Libya National Mine Action Strategy is currently under development, alongside an ongoing review of Libyan Mine Action Standards. Originally developed with the support of UNMAS in 2015 and adopted and published Libyan Mine Action Centre in 2017, the revised standards will ensure alignment with global best practices.

    The gathering came in support of the Secretary‑General’s global campaign, which upholds humanitarian disarmament, accelerates mine action as an enabler of human rights and sustainable development, and drives forward the vision of a mine-free world.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL).

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Zimbabwe sets strategic course for capacity development on sustainable soil management

    Source: APO


    .

    Zimbabwe has made significant strides towards strengthening its agricultural resilience and soil management capacity through the launch of a new project titled “Capacity Development on Sustainable Soil Management in the Global South.”

    Following the successful high-level launch of the project this week, Zimbabwe has taken a decisive step forward with a two-day inception meeting that built momentum by defining the strategic direction and technical roadmap for project implementation.

    This initiative, supported by the People’s Republic of China under the South-South Cooperation framework is implemented by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the Government of Zimbabwe.   

    “This meeting provided a critical platform to align our shared vision and technical priorities. It allowed us to present the strategic foundations of the project, define synergies among national institutions and key stakeholders, while collectively endorsing a clear roadmap for implementation,” said Patrice Talla, FAO Subregional Coordinator for Southern Africa and Representative to Zimbabwe.

    “This process marks a strategic, co-created and coordinated start to delivering sustainable soil management solutions for Zimbabwe,” added Talla.

    The meeting brought together key directorates and departments from the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development (MLAFWRD). The Agricultural Research, Innovation and Specialist Services (ARISS) was represented by the Chemistry and Soil Research Institute (CSRI) whilst the Agricultural and Rural Development Advisory Services (ARDAS) was represented by the department of Agricultural, Technical and Extension Services (AGRITEX), Marondera University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (MUAST) and international partners including the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS).

    Defining technical priorities and implementation framework

    The inception meeting was strategically structured to align technical dialogue with policy priorities. The meeting featured expert presentations on the distribution and management of red soils in Zimbabwe, the current state of soil laboratories and information systems, and comparative insights from China’s red soil management practices.

    These sessions laid the technical foundation for the project, ensuring that all stakeholders had a shared understanding of the scientific context and implementation framework. The meeting transitioned into a participatory planning phase, where stakeholders engaged in group discussions to define workplans for site identification, soil mapping, laboratory analysis, field trials, and farmer trainings through the Global Soil Doctor Programme.

    “This collaborative approach ensured that the project’s implementation plan was not only technically sound but also nationally owned and contextually relevant. The structure of the meeting strategically contributed to the project’s overall objectives, clarifying roles, and setting a clear, actionable roadmap for effective implementation of the project,” said Emmanuel Chikwari, Head of the CSRI.

    As the project moves into its implementation phase, the focus now shifts to delivering on three strategic priority areas: upgrading soil laboratories and developing digital soil maps; demonstrating sustainable soil and fertilizer management practices through field trials and extension training; and facilitating international knowledge exchange through workshops and technical cooperation. These actions will operationalize the project’s vision and deliver tangible outcomes for Zimbabwe’s soil health and agricultural resilience.

    Harnessing the power of South-South Cooperation and learning

    “This project is a powerful demonstration of how South-South Cooperation can drive innovation and capacity development in sustainable agriculture. As an implementing partner, Marondera University is proud to contribute to the rollout of this initiative by applying research, training, and field-evidence-based learning to improve soil management,” said Esther Masvaya, from MUAST.

    “The inception meeting has set a clear, co-owned and co-created direction for implementation, ensuring that Zimbabwe’s soil economy benefits from inclusive planning, shared expertise, and a strong culture of learning that will drive lasting impact,” said Sibongile Mangena-Chikore, Chief Agronomist, AGRITEX.

    FAO and its implementing partners will continue to refine the project’s strategic direction, monitoring progress and learning through regular workshops and field implementation activities.

    “Sustainable soil management is a pivotal activity towards enhanced agricultural production and productivity in the context of climate change. This project is a game changer, especially in the management of red soils in Zimbabwe, which have not received much attention in the past,” said Obert Maminimini, FAO Project Coordinator.

    Through its strong foundation in South-South Cooperation, the project also creates a platform for Zimbabwe to share its experiences, innovations, and lessons learned with other project countries in the Global South, fostering mutual learning and advancing sustainable soil management across regions.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO): Regional Office for Africa.

    MIL OSI Africa