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Category: France

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cotton, Colleagues to Gensler: Protect Americans’ Privacy and Halt CAT Filings

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas Tom Cotton
    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEContact: Caroline Tabler or Patrick McCann (202) 224-2353September 20, 2024
    Cotton, Colleagues to Gensler: Protect Americans’ Privacy and Halt CAT Filings 
    Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) led 13 of his Congressional Republican colleagues in sending a letter to Securities and Exchange Commission Chair Gary Gensler to call for the immediate suspension of the recently effective rule filings tied to the Consolidated Audit Trail (CAT). The letter warns that the SEC’s decision to allow these fillings to proceed without proper oversight is an affront to investors and endangers the impartiality of the judicial process. 
    Senators Tim Scott (R-South Carolina), John Boozman (R-Arkansas), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska), Steve Daines (R-Montana), Jerry Moran (R-Kansas), Bill Hagerty (R-Tennessee), Katie Britt (R-Alabama), John Kennedy (R-Louisiana), Congressman French Hill (Arkansas-02), Congressman John Rose (Tennessee-06), Congressman Steve Womack (Arkansas-03), and Congressman Alex Mooney (West Virginia-02) co-signed the letter. 
    In part, the lawmakers wrote:
    “As members of Congress and Amici Curiae in these cases, we have a vested interest in ensuring that the Commission adheres to its statutory authority. The CAT poses profound risks to Americans’ individual liberty and personal privacy. Moreover, if a significant new tax is levied on American investors, the Courts must be afforded an opportunity to conduct a fair and impartial review.”
    Full text of the letter can be found here and below.
    September 20, 2024
    Chair Gensler,
    We write to express our concerns that the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “Commission”) has not suspended the most recent immediately effective rule filings to establish fees related to the Consolidated Audit Trail (“CAT”). As you are aware, the legality of the funding model underpinning these filings as well as the CAT itself are being reviewed in the Fifth and Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals.’
    As members of Congress and Amici Curiae in these cases, we have a vested interest in ensuring that the Commission adheres to its statutory authority. The CAT poses profound risks to Americans’ individual liberty and personal privacy. Moreover, fi a significant new tax is levied on American investors, the Courts must be afforded an opportunity to conduct a fair and impartial review.
    The Commission has allowed the withdrawal of suspended fee filings, followed by the refiling of nearly identical ones, which effectively overrides its previous suspension and enables the immediate imposition of CAT fees with minimal notice to the industry. The Commission must suspend the CAT fees in order to allow market participants the opportunity to comment on these filings and to allow the legality of the entire CAT structure to be reviewed through the judicial process.
    Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. 
    Sincerely,
    ____________________
    Tom Cotton
    United States Senator

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Storm Boris (15 Sept. 2024)

    Source: France-Diplomatie – Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Development

    France is deeply distressed by the devastating consequences of Storm Boris, which is affecting Central and Eastern Europe and has led to several deaths. It has also forced the evacuation of thousands of people and caused enormous material damage. We offer our condolences to the bereaved families.

    France expresses its absolute solidarity with the people and authorities of Austria, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Slovakia and the Czech Republic.

    Together with its European partners, France stands ready to respond to requests for assistance.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Canada announces significant funding to boost critical mineral development in northern British Columbia and Yukon

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Government of Canada – in French

    Press release

    September 20, 2024 Vancouver, British Columbia Natural Resources Canada

    Investments in critical minerals infrastructure are needed to ensure Canada seizes the unique opportunity presented by the shift to a low-carbon economy and capitalizes on its rich mineral resources. The country is well positioned to be a global leader and leading producer of a wide range of critical minerals that are essential to fueling the clean economy, and in doing so, create good jobs and economic opportunities across the critical minerals value chain – from upstream exploration and extraction to downstream processing, manufacturing and recycling.

    The Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, together with the Honourable Josie Osborne, British Columbia Minister of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation, and the Honourable Ranj Pillai, Premier of Yukon, today announced, subject to a final due diligence review by Natural Resources Canada, funding of up to $60 million for two critical minerals infrastructure projects in British Columbia’s Golden Triangle and Yukon. The funding would come from the Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund (CMIF).

    Galore Creek Mining Corporation (Galore Creek) plans to build a 43-kilometre access road to facilitate the development of its copper mine in Tahltan territory in northwestern British Columbia. The Galore Creek deposit contains over 12 billion pounds of copper. Once operational, the mine will significantly increase Canada’s annual supply of the metal. Construction of the access road would connect the mine project to existing road infrastructure, providing overland access to the proposed mill and processing facilities, and creating a transmission corridor for the mine to tap into BC Hydro’s low-emission electricity grid. Road improvements are essential to advancing critical mineral development in northwestern British Columbia, in partnership with First Nations. Subject to final due diligence, Natural Resources Canada has conditionally approved a CMIF investment of up to $20 million for this project.

    The Yukon government is seeking to undertake pre-feasibility activities to support a 765-kilometre high-voltage transmission line that would connect the Yukon electricity grid to the North American grid in British Columbia. It includes the development of energy infrastructure in two priority areas for critical mineral development: the Cassiar-Tanana region in Yukon and the Golden Triangle region in British Columbia. The transmission line would support critical mineral production projects such as cobalt, copper, molybdenum, nickel, platinum group metals, tungsten and zinc in Yukon and northern British Columbia. Subject to final due diligence, Natural Resources Canada has conditionally approved an investment of up to $40 million in CMIF funding for this project.

    The Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund is a key program under Canada’s Critical Minerals Strategy that aims to address infrastructure gaps and ensure the sustainable production of critical minerals and the flow of resources to market through transportation, electrification and clean energy infrastructure projects. Further funding decisions on critical minerals infrastructure development projects under the CMIF are expected in the coming months.

    These projects, which benefit from close collaboration within the regional tables on energy and resources British Columbia and Yukon, along with the recently announced Northwest British Columbia Highway Corridor Improvement Project, are fundamental initiatives to facilitate the development of critical minerals in the Golden Triangle and Yukon. British Columbia’s Golden Triangle has significant mineral potential and contains approximately 75% of Canada’s known copper reserves. Copper is critical to a variety of industrial processes and is a fundamental component of electrical wires, electronics and renewable energy systems such as solar panels and wind turbines.

    Critical minerals are fundamental components of products used in clean energy technologies such as electric vehicles, power transmission lines and batteries. British Columbia and Yukon’s mining sectors provide many of the building blocks for the clean technologies needed to combat climate change and build a clean economy. Across the country, clean energy solutions represent enormous economic opportunities.

    Quotes

    “These two projects, delivered through the Canadian Critical Minerals Strategy’s flagship program, will help build the infrastructure needed to access and transport our rich critical mineral resources in northern British Columbia and the Yukon. Projects like these accelerate mine construction and allow us to seize this unique opportunity. We need these investments to support critical mineral development in the region, improve community accessibility and safety, and create good mining jobs in British Columbia and the Yukon.”

    The Honorable Jonathan Wilkinson

    Minister of Energy and Natural Resources

    “British Columbia is home to the critical minerals Canada and the world need to build a clean economy. We have a unique opportunity to create good jobs not only in northwest British Columbia, but in communities across the province that supply and service our mining sector. That is why we are working with Canada and First Nations to make the infrastructure improvements needed to unlock billions of dollars of investment in new critical mineral mines like Galore Creek, creating new opportunities for people and communities.”

    The Honourable Josie Osborne

    British Columbia Minister of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation

    “The Grid Connect project is not just an energy project; it is a transformative initiative for all Yukoners. It will provide clean, affordable and reliable energy that will not only power our homes, but also drive economic and social growth. I thank our partners in British Columbia and the federal government for their collaboration on this important project that will benefit our northern communities. Our government is proud to take this step toward a more sustainable energy future.”

    Honourable Ranj Pillai

    Premier of Yukon

    “This project will connect Canada’s two westernmost territories and help integrate Yukon’s electricity grid with North America. It marks an important step in our shared journey to create a more connected and resilient energy landscape for Yukoners, while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. My sincere thanks to all those whose hard work and dedication made this goal a reality. I look forward to seeing how this progress will clean up Yukon’s energy, help protect our incredible natural landscapes, and create opportunities for economic growth.”

    The Honourable John Streicker

    Yukon Minister of Energy, Mines and Resources

    “We would like to thank Minister Wilkinson and the Government of Canada for their contributions to the development of the Galore Creek Mine and, by extension, Canada’s critical minerals industry. Canada’s support for the Galore Creek Mine demonstrates confidence in our project, our owners, our relationship with the Tahltan Nation, and our commitment to responsibly developing a world-class copper-gold mine.”

    Rob Mean

    Managing Director, Galore Creek Mining Corporation

    “The Galore Creek mine has the potential to significantly increase Canadian production of the copper needed to support the energy transition and global development, creating jobs and economic activity, which aligns with Teck’s goal as a Canadian metals company enabling the energy transition. This investment by the Government of Canada will support the development of the infrastructure needed to advance critical mineral projects and strengthen the country’s mining sector.”

    Jonathan Price

    President and CEO, Teck Resources Limited

    “Newmont is an equal partner in the Galore Creek project with Teck Resources. The Galore Creek mine is Canada’s largest non-developed copper project and could play a critical role in the transition to a low-carbon economy. Global demand for copper is exploding, and we are facing a shortage that underscores the importance of the project. The investment in a critical mine road, made through the Government of Canada’s Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund, will help unlock the project and unleash the significant critical mineral potential of this region of northwest British Columbia.”

    Bernard Wessels

    General Manager, North America, Newmont Corporation

    Quick Facts

    Canada has developed its own critical minerals strategy with the aim of promoting the development of these resources and related value chains to contribute to the transition to a low-carbon economy and support advanced manufacturing and technologies.

    There Canadian Critical Minerals Strategy has five main objectives:

    supporting economic growth, competitiveness and job creation; promoting climate action and strong environmental stewardship; strengthening global security and partnerships with allies; advancing reconciliation with Indigenous peoples; and fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce and communities.

    Canada’s whole-of-government approach to critical minerals development is collaborative, forward-looking, iterative, adaptive and long-term. The initiatives outlined in the Strategy will be implemented and refined in collaboration with provinces, territories, Indigenous peoples, industry and other partners in Canada and internationally.

    The FIMC is a flagship program of the Strategy that supports transportation and clean energy infrastructure projects needed to increase Canada’s supply of critical minerals from responsible sources.

    The FIMC supports a variety of strategic priorities, including: decarbonizing mining industry operations, strengthening supply chains through the deployment of transportation infrastructure, and advancing economic reconciliation by supporting the participation of Indigenous peoples in critical infrastructure and mineral projects.

    The federal government also supports the development of Canada’s abundant critical mineral resources through regional tables on energy and resources of Natural Resources Canada. These regional tables are joint partnerships established with each provincial and territorial government that, in collaboration with Indigenous partners and with input from key stakeholders, seek to identify and accelerate the achievement of shared economic priorities for a low-carbon future in the energy and resource sectors.

    Related links

    Contact persons

    Natural Resources CanadaMedia Relations343-292-6100media@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca

    Cindy CaturaoPress SecretaryOffice of the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources613-795-5638cindy.caturao@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DFS drives expansion of digital payments in India and abroad

    Source: Government of India

    DFS drives expansion of digital payments in India and abroad

    Digital payment transactions volume grew to 18,737 crore in FY 2023-24 from 2,071 crore in FY 2017-18 at Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 44%; with value of transactions at ₹3,659 lakh crore in FY23-24 from ₹1,962 lakh crore in FY17-18 at CAGR of 11%

    UPI transactions volume grew to 13,116 crore in FY 2023-24 from 92 crore in FY 2017-18 at CAGR of 129%; with value of UPI transactions reaching ₹200 lakh crore trillion in FY23-24 from ₹1 lakh crore in FY17-18 at CAGR of 138%

    UPI now seamlessly facilitates live transactions in 7 countries, including key markets such as UAE, Singapore, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, France, and Mauritius

    Posted On: 20 SEP 2024 3:31PM by PIB Delhi

    The Department of Financial Services (DFS), Ministry of Finance, plays a critical role in driving the promotion of digital payments in the country.

    Efforts to accelerate the adoption of fast payment system like the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has revolutionised the way financial transactions are conducted, enabling real-time, secure, and seamless payments for millions.

    This initiative aligns with the Government’s vision of a cashless and inclusive economy, empowering every citizen in their financial decision.

    In comparison with previous fiscal years, the digital payments landscape has demonstrated remarkable expansion in Financial Year (FY) 2023-24. Key insights include:

    Growth in Digital Payment Transactions:

    Digital payments in India have witnessed significant growth, with the total number of digital payment transactions volume increased from 2,071 crore in FY 2017-18 to 18,737 crore in FY 2023-24 at Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 44%. Furthermore, during the last 5 months (April-August) of the current financial year 2024-25, the transaction volume has reached to 8,659 crore.

    Source: RBI, NPCI & Banks

    The value of transactions has grown from ₹1,962 lakh crore to ₹3,659 lakh crore at CAGR of 11%. Additionally, in the last 5 months (April-August) of the current financial year 2024-25, the total transaction value has surged to an impressive ₹1,669 lakh crore.

    Source: RBI, NPCI & Banks

    UPI’s Continued Success:

    UPI remains the cornerstone of India’s digital payment ecosystem. UPI has revolutionised digital payments in the country, UPI transactions have grown from 92 crore in FY 2017-18 to 13,116 crore in FY 2023-24 at CAGR of 129%. Furthermore, during the last 5 months (April-August) of the current Financial Year 2024-25, the transaction volume has reached 7,062 crore.

    The ease of use facilitated by growing network of participating banks and fintech platforms, has made UPI the most preferred mode of real-time payments for millions of users across the country.

    Source: NPCI

    The value of UPI transactions has grown from ₹1 lakh crore to ₹200 lakh crore at CAGR of 138%. Additionally, in the last 5 months (April-August FY2024-25), the total transaction value has surged to an impressive ₹101 lakh crore.

    Source: NPCI

    UPI: P2M and P2P Transactions (by Volume in crore) for Aug 2024

    The contribution of P2M transactions reached 62.40% in Aug’ 2024, where 85% of these transactions are up to a value of ₹500. This indicates the trust that UPI enjoys among citizens for making low value payments.

    UPI and RuPay Global Expansion:

    India’s digital payments revolution is extending beyond its borders. Both UPI and RuPay are rapidly expanding globally, enabling seamless cross-border transactions for Indians living and traveling abroad. Presently, UPI is live in 7 countries, including key markets such as UAE, Singapore, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, France, Mauritius, allowing Indian consumers and businesses to make and receive payments internationally. This expansion will further bolster remittance flows, improve financial inclusion, and elevate India’s stature in the global financial landscape. As per ACI Worldwide Report 2024, in 2023 around 49% of the global real-time payment transactions is happening in India.

    India is rapidly emerging as a global leader in digital payments. With UPI’s global expansion and the continued rise of digital transactions, India is setting new benchmarks for financial inclusion and economic empowerment of common citizen.

    Department of Financial Services remains committed to advancing digital payment solutions that are secure, scalable, and inclusive, while also exploring new avenues to strengthen India’s position in the global financial ecosystem.

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    NB/KMN

    (Release ID: 2057013) Visitor Counter : 68

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Government of Canada and Federation of Canadian Municipalities to make announcement for sustainable affordable housing in Ontario

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Government of Canada – in French 1

    Media Advisory

    OTTAWA— Terry Sheehan, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Labour and Seniors, on behalf of the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, and Geoff Stewart, President of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM), will make an announcement for sustainable affordable housing in Northwestern Ontario.

    Date: Monday, September 23, 2024

    Time: 1:15 p.m. (ET)

    Location: This virtual event will be held via the Webex platform. Accredited journalists wishing to attend are requested to register in advance by email at media@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca to get the link to the ad.

    Note: To ensure optimal sound quality, we encourage journalists to use a microphone (headset) or landline and to avoid using speakerphone mode when on hold to ask a question.

    Contact persons

    Media Relations

    Natural Resources Canada

    Ottawa

    343-292-6100

    media@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca

    Cindy Caturao

    Press Officer

    Office of the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources

    Cindy.Caturao@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca

    Follow us on LinkedIn

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Canada announces new support for global polio eradication efforts

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Government of Canada – in French 1

    The world is on the verge of eradicating polio, but humanitarian crises, overburdened health systems, and the aftershocks of the COVID-19 pandemic have created new challenges. Canada has played a leading role in the global health response to polio, and we are responding again.

    September 20, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

    The world is on the verge of eradicating polio, but humanitarian crises, overburdened health systems, and the aftershocks of the COVID-19 pandemic have created new challenges. Canada has played a leading role in the global health response to polio, and we are responding again.

    Today, at the Rotary International Conference in Toronto, Ontario, the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development, announced $151 million in funding as the next phase of Canada’s support for the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI).

    This Canadian investment will enable the GPEI and partners such as UNICEF and the World Health Organization to provide and expand accessible, quality polio health and immunization services around the world. This includes improving access to polio vaccination for the most vulnerable populations, including women and girls, and in conflict-affected areas where access to essential health services is limited or non-existent.

    Efforts will focus on ending transmission of all forms of poliovirus by vaccinating more than 370 million children annually against the disease, preventing 600,000 children from becoming paralyzed or dying each year, improving immunization rates and communications to promote polio vaccination, continuing surveillance and disease containment activities, and strengthening health systems.

    The funding announced today will make a significant and meaningful difference in polio eradication efforts and in protecting those most affected. It will enable more children to live polio-free and healthy lives. And it will bring us one step closer to eliminating this disease for good.

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Statement by the Co-Chairs of the Meeting of Women Foreign Ministers

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Government of Canada – in French 1

    Following their historic meeting in Toronto on September 19-20, 2024, the Co-Chairs, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada, the Honourable Mélanie Joly, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade of Jamaica, the Honourable Senator Kamina Johnson Smith, issued the following statement:

    September 20, 2024 – Toronto, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

    Following their historic meeting in Toronto on September 19-20, 2024, the Co-Chairs, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada, the Honourable Mélanie Joly, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade of Jamaica, the Honourable Senator Kamina Johnson Smith, issued the following statement:

    “We gathered in Toronto with women foreign ministers from around the world and reiterated our commitment to breaking down barriers and empowering the next generation of women leaders.

    “We are encouraged that women’s political representation around the world has doubled over the past 25 years. However, this still represents only about 1 in 4 parliamentary seats held by a woman.

    “We are committed to promoting women’s participation in leadership and decision-making, and to fostering inclusive and safe spaces for women in politics and public life. We are also committed to deliberately encouraging young women everywhere to enter politics and participate in public life.

    “We are concerned about the growing hateful and misogynistic discourse online that targets women, particularly in civic spaces. Safe online public spaces are a public good for societies and democracies as a whole, and regulations aimed at preserving safety and truth should not be seen as opposed to transparency, freedom of expression or freedom of the press.

    “We therefore agreed to counter gender-based violence online, prevent gender-based disinformation and call on online platforms to take measures to strengthen their accountability.

    “We discussed strategies to amplify the voices of women and other marginalized groups, both at the local level and at the highest levels of government.

    “We have expressed our deepest concerns about the gross violations of human rights suffered by women and girls in Afghanistan, and we call on the Taliban to restore women and girls’ rights to education and meaningful participation in public life, and to end their draconian measures that have erased decades of progress on women’s rights.

    “We discussed the issue of gender imbalance within the United Nations system.

    “It is time to appoint a woman as Secretary General.

    “We strongly encourage Member States considering a nomination for the position of UN Secretary-General to nominate a woman.

    “Noting that there have been only 4 women presidents of the United Nations General Assembly in the last 79 years, we believe that now is also the time to aim for gender parity in this position.

    “Making these significant changes is within our reach.

    “We engaged with various civil society representatives, who stressed the importance of supporting women’s community organizations and human rights activists in policy development. We agreed to foster environments that are conducive to gender equality and recognized that independent members of civil society are essential catalysts for the success and resilience of democracies.

    “The year 2025 will mark the 30th anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women and the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, as well as the 25th anniversary of the unanimous adoption of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 on women, peace and security. We cannot take this hard-won progress towards gender equality and inclusion for granted. Our collective efforts will be essential to ensure that women are fully involved in building inclusive societies and a peaceful, sustainable and prosperous future.”

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DEMS attends International Railway Safety Council 2024 Conference (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    DEMS attends International Railway Safety Council 2024 Conference (with photo)
    DEMS attends International Railway Safety Council 2024 Conference (with photo)
    ******************************************************************************

         The Director of Electrical and Mechanical Services (DEMS), Mr Poon Kwok-ying, attended the International Railway Safety Council (IRSC) Conference in Vienna, Austria from September 18 to 20 (Austrian time). The Conference was an annual forum for railway safety regulators, operators and relevant stakeholders worldwide to exchange knowledge, experience and lesson learnt on railway safety.            The Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) gave presentations on four separate railway safety topics to share its experience in the applications of innovation and technology (I&T) for enhancing railway safety as well as the regulatory experience and preventive measures on handling catastrophic flooding.           At the closing ceremony of the Conference on September 20 (Austrian time), Mr Poon, together with the Administrator of the National Railway Administration, Mr Fei Dongbin, and the Operations and Innovation Director of the MTR Corporation, Dr Tony Lee, were handed over the “IRSC Triangle” by the Organising Committee Chairman of this year’s Conference, symbolising that Hong Kong, China will be the host city of the next Conference.           Under the theme “Advancing Railway Safety through Innovations and Collaborations”, the IRSC 2025 Conference will be jointly hosted by the EMSD, the National Railway Administration and the MTR Corporation. The delegates around the world will be invited to participate the Conference in Hong Kong, China to carry out in-depth exchanges on the issue of railway safety development and also personally experience the China’s railway development in recent years. Over 300 internationally renowned railway experts from Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Ireland, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, South Africa, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, the United Kingdom, and more are expected to attend the Conference.

     
    Ends/Saturday, September 21, 2024Issued at HKT 11:00

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: SECNAV Del Toro Names Future Nuclear-Powered Attack Submarine USS Baltimore (SSN 812)

    Source: United States Navy

    BALTIMORE (Sept 20, 2024) – Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro announced that the future Virginia-class nuclear-powered attack submarine SSN 812 will be named USS Baltimore. Del Toro made the announcement during a ship naming ceremony held in Baltimore aboard the historic USS Constellation, Sept. 20.

    The future USS Baltimore honors the city of Baltimore, the crews of one Continental Navy ship, and the five previous Navy vessels named Baltimore.

    The naming selection of the future USS Baltimore (SSN 812) continues the recent trend of naming Virginia-class submarines after cities. Del Toro previously named USS Long Island (SSN 809), USS San Francisco (SSN 810), and USS Miami (SSN 811).

    “The city of Baltimore maintains a strong connection with our maritime services and is a critical enabler of our National Maritime Statecraft,” said Del Toro. “It is my honor and privilege to announce the name of the next Virginia-class nuclear-powered submarine, SSN-812, USS Baltimore.” 

    Maryland Sen. Ben Cardin joined Del Toro for the ceremony honoring Baltimore.

    “Maryland is proud of our connection to the Navy and our strong history as a coastal state,” said Cardin. “I am excited that the next USS Baltimore will be sailing the seas again as the Navy’s newest submarine. Our Navy maintains and protects free and open international waters. From defending our young nation from pirates in the late 1700s to ensuring freedom of navigation today in the Red Sea and Taiwan Strait, our Navy is always on watch.”

    Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott also served as a guest in the official party and spoke about the honor and meaning behind the naming of the Navy’s newest submarine.

    “We are honored that Baltimore is being represented across the globe once again with the naming of this future ship,” said Scott. “As a city with such a rich naval and maritime history, the naming of the USS Baltimore ensures that legacy will continue to live on for decades to come. I want to extend my deepest thanks and gratitude to the U.S. Navy for this honor and for continuing to uplift our city, including all Baltimoreans who choose to serve.”

    Along with the ship’s name, Del Toro also announced Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks will serve as the ship’s sponsor. In her role as sponsor, she will represent a lifelong relationship with the ship and crew.

    “When Baltimore joins the fleet, with a world-class crew, it will be among the most agile, lethal, resilient, and capable conventional nuclear-powered submarines we’ve ever made,” said Hicks. “Make no mistake about Baltimore’s purpose, like all of our submarines, conventional and otherwise, we build them not to provoke war, but rather to prevent wars, through deterrence.”

    The city of Baltimore has significant ties to American and Naval history. The Port of Baltimore was established in 1706 and the Town of Baltimore in 1729. One of the Navy’s six founding frigates, USS Constellation, was built in Baltimore, and the city’s skilled ship workers later would construct the famous Baltimore clipper ships. In 1814, the Battle of Baltimore inspired the American national anthem.

    The first Baltimore served in the Quasi-War against France, while the second Baltimore served during the Civil War. The third Baltimore fought in the Battle of Manila Bay during the Spanish-American War and later conducted mine-laying operations in World War I. The fourth Baltimore earned nine battle stars during World War II, fighting in campaigns for the Caroline Islands, Gilbert and Marshall Islands, and Okinawa. The fifth Baltimore participated in undersea operations against the Soviet Union, completing a variety of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions. The Navy simultaneously decommissioned and struck the most recent vessel from the list on 10 July 1998.

    After the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in March 2024, the Navy provided equities to the established “Key Bridge Response Unified Command.” NAVSEA’s Navy Supervisor of Salvage and Diving (SUPSALV) led critical efforts to support the clearance of the Port of Baltimore’s Fort McHenry Federal Channel, responsible for managing all on-scene assets tasked with debris removal and channel clearing. Del Toro personally assessed the site and met with Navy personnel on April 19, 2024.

    Attack submarines are designed to seek and destroy enemy submarines and surface ships; project power ashore with Tomahawk cruise missiles and Special Operation Forces (SOF); carry out Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions; support battle group operations; and engage in mine warfare.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Asylum: sharp decline in the number of applicants from the Maghreb in federal centres

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

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in French

    State Secretariat for Migration

    Bern-Wabern, 21.09.2024 – Since the introduction of the 24-hour procedure in the Zurich Region in November 2023, the number of asylum seekers from the Maghreb states has fallen by 42% in the federal asylum centres. Thanks to the new procedures, the average time to obtain an asylum decision at first instance has been reduced from 52 days to 17 days. This significantly reduces the pressure on the Confederation’s asylum structures. The number of security incidents in the federal asylum centres has also fallen by 42%.

    Since the end of April 2024, the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) has been processing asylum applications filed by applicants from Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia and Libya under the 24-hour procedure. The main stages of the procedure are completed within 24 hours, with free legal protection remaining guaranteed at all times. This procedure also allows asylum seekers to consult a health professional at very short notice, which makes it possible to quickly identify vulnerable people. Given that the majority of people from these countries have already been registered in other European states, the SEM can request their readmission under the Dublin Agreement much more quickly than before; once this request has been accepted, repatriation can be carried out.

    Half of asylum decisions are made within 11 days

    Since the 24-hour procedure was introduced on a trial basis in the Zurich Region in mid-November 2023 for asylum seekers from countries with very low asylum grant rates, the number of applicants from Maghreb states has fallen by 42% in the Confederation’s structures. This decline has even reached 64% in the Zurich Region. Since the introduction of the new procedures, it takes an average of 17 days to obtain an asylum decision at first instance, and 50% of procedures are completed within 11 days, compared to an average of 52 days previously. Once the SEM has completed the procedural steps, it still has to wait for a response, within a given period, from the Dublin States concerned.

    In parallel with the acceleration of procedures, the average length of stay of Maghrebi asylum seekers in the CFA has decreased from 32 nights between May and August 2023 to 21 nights between May and August 2024, a decrease of 34%. As a result, the SEM has more beds available and supervisory staff at its disposal for asylum seekers from other States who can claim a situation of persecution.

    Since the 24-hour procedure was introduced in the Zurich Region in November 2023, the number of security incidents – including altercations of all kinds – has also decreased by 42% in all CFAs. The security situation has therefore improved significantly. In 2023 and 2024, around two thirds of security incidents were mainly attributable to asylum seekers from the Maghreb, even though this group accounted for less than 15% of overnight stays.

    Federal Administrative Court supports SEM decisions

    The 24-hour procedure is a normal asylum procedure in which the steps follow one another at a fast pace. Free legal protection is guaranteed at all times. To date, the SEM has decided on more than 900 asylum applications under this procedure, and 37 appeals have been filed with the Federal Administrative Court (FAC) against its decisions. In 31 cases, the FAC supported the SEM’s decision; the remaining cases have not yet been decided.

    The 24-hour procedure includes registration, fingerprinting, initial medical consultation, absconding hearing or Dublin interview, application to other Dublin states and decision in the Dublin procedure or asylum procedure.

    Increase in the number of registered asylum applications

    The number of asylum applications filed by persons from the Maghreb States has barely changed compared to the previous year. However, since the introduction of the 24-hour procedure, the SEM has been registering these applications immediately after the persons’ arrival at the CFA, whereas previously it only did so when fingerprints were taken, which was often several days later. However, many of the persons concerned had already left by that time and therefore did not appear as asylum seekers in the asylum statistics.

    Address for sending questions

    SEM Press Service, medien@sem.admin.ch

    Author

    State Secretariat for Migrationhttps://www.sem.admin.ch/sem/fr/home.html

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Financial services growing apace

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Associate Director-General of Investment Promotion Charles Ng says Hong Kong’s financial services sector is currently undergoing accelerated growth, thanks to the ongoing recovery seen in the city’s overall economy, as well as favourable government policies.

    In the first eight months of this year, Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK) assisted 40 companies in the financial sector in setting up or expanding their operations in Hong Kong, a 60% increase compared to the same period last year.

    Half of these companies are from Mainland China, followed by the US, the UK, Switzerland, Luxembourg, France, Malaysia, and five other economies.

    The scope of the companies covers a broad spectrum, but a sizeable 14 among them provide asset management services. This aligns with Hong Kong’s position as Asia’s leading asset and wealth management hub and offers further demonstration that the city remains the region’s premier global financial centre.

    Hong Kong’s unique geographical location and the advantages it enjoys under “one country, two systems” are hugely appealing to investors and companies.

    Mr Ng noted an increasing trend among Mainland companies of using Hong Kong as a platform to expand their global reach. Complementing this, he said, firms from overseas markets continue to leverage Hong Kong to enter the Chinese market, particularly that of the Greater Bay Area.

    “Through our international network, we are exploring strategies to help Mainland or overseas companies already established in Hong Kong tap into emerging markets, such as the Middle East and countries along the Belt & Road Initiative.”

    Wealth management hub

    Hong Kong’s capital markets, boasting a total market capitalisation of about US$5 trillion, are among the most vibrant and liquid in the world. The city is also Asia’s biggest global offshore wealth management centre, and the second largest in the world behind Switzerland.

    Furthermore, it has the highest number of ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs) of any Asian city. 

    Hong Kong’s asset and wealth management business was worth HK$31.2 trillion at the end of 2023. Mr Ng said it now stands as the second largest cross-border wealth management centre globally, and is poised to become the largest booking centre for wealth management business by 2027.

    Noting that investors across the globe are seeking better returns by allocating capital to alternative asset classes such as private equity, hedge funds and more, he added that alternative investments in Hong Kong are experiencing extraordinary growth.

    Outside of the Mainland, Hong Kong has the largest number of hedge funds and the biggest private equity market in Asia.

    Hong Kong also serves as the largest offshore renminbi centre, and its RMB liquidity pool, exceeding RMB600 billion, is the world’s largest outside of the Mainland.

    Enabling growth

    The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government is committed to attracting global investment through various initiatives, including tax concessions for private equity funds and relaxed listing rules for pre-revenue biotech and specialist technology companies.

    Hamilton Lane, a distinguished leader in alternative asset management, has announced the establishment of its first Hong Kong Limited Partnership Fund, further solidifying its presence in Asia. The company manages approximately US$130 billion in discretionary assets and US$810 billion in non-discretionary assets.

    Having opened its inaugural Asian office in Hong Kong in 2009, Hamilton Lane is poised to celebrate its 15th anniversary in the region this month.

    Shannon Chow, Managing Director and Head of Greater China Client Solutions at Hamilton Lane, remarked: “Our Hong Kong office has operations in asset management and client solutions. If you ask me whether Hong Kong is our inaugural office in Asia, the answer is yes. We are very pleased to have this office in the heart of Hong Kong to expand our business further in Asia.”

    Ms Chow also expressed her admiration for the InvestHK team, acknowledging its dedication and strenuous efforts in promoting the family office sector, and praised the Hong Kong SAR Government’s successful initiatives aimed at enhancing the city’s talent pool.

    According to Ms Chow, one of Hong Kong’s key advantages is its low tax rates, which underpin the development of alternative investment companies and other industries.

    She stated: “Hong Kong is renowned for having some of the lowest tax rates in the global market, which significantly helps in the development of these sectors.”

    Furthermore, she noted, “Hong Kong possesses a robust and skilled talent pool, which is vital for our operations.”

    The Hong Kong SAR Government, Ms Chow highlighted, has launched various initiatives to attract talent, fostering an environment that draws professionals from around the world.

    “These programmes allow overseas individuals and those from Mainland China to work in Hong Kong, making Hong Kong their home.”

    In addition to Mainland talent moving to Hong Kong, many businesses from the Mainland are also choosing to expand their operations in the city. A notable example is Guolian Securities International, which is headquartered in Jiangsu Province. The company established a presence in Hong Kong in 2019, and engages in both wealth management and investment banking.

    Franklin Yang, CEO of Guolian Securities International, highlighted the numerous advantages Hong Kong offers, stating: “There are many benefits to operating in Hong Kong, both from a policy-making perspective and in terms of the advantages it provides within Greater China.”

    He also stressed that the city’s commendable education system contributes to a pool of graduates proficient in both English and Mandarin, making it easier to attract top talent for larger-scale deals.

    Mr Yang emphasised Hong Kong’s unique position in the financial industry, remarking: “Guolian takes full advantage of Hong Kong’s status as a financial capital. We attract many reputable companies from Mainland China, who either list on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange or engage in merger and acquisition activities here.”

    He added, with optimism: “I believe Guolian can bring more capital into these markets.”

    As Hamilton Lane continues to expand its operations and Guolian Securities International consolidates its offerings, Hong Kong remains a pivotal hub for financial services in the region, attracting businesses and talent alike.

    Targeting wealthy individuals

    To draw UHNWIs to the city, the Hong Kong SAR Government has introduced measures to enhance offerings for global wealth owners and promote the development of family offices.

    “Hong Kong’s family office sector is flourishing, with more than 2,700 single-family offices,” Mr Ng explained.

    Over the past year, facilitating measures have been implemented to support the business development of family offices.

    “As of end-May this year, we have assisted 89 family offices to set up or expand their operations in Hong Kong and more than 130 family offices indicated that they had decided or were preparing to set up or expand their operations in Hong Kong.”

    The New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES) is another vital initiative that is contributing to Hong Kong’s status as a leading financial hub. Under the scheme, high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) can settle in the city if they invest a minimum of HK$30 million here, with a portion being directed towards companies and projects with a Hong Kong nexus.

    “When HNWIs choose to invest through the New CIES, they create a demand for financial services, further strengthening the city’s reputation as a premier destination for wealth management and investment.”

    Highlighting the scheme’s appeal, Mr Ng said that since its launch in March, the scheme had received over 5,000 enquiries and more than 500 applications.

    The insurance sector is another important pillar of Hong Kong’s financial industry, with the city housing around 160 authorised insurers, including six of the world’s top 10, as of July. Hong Kong has also achieved exceptional insurance density, ranking first in Asia and second globally for insurance premiums per capita as of the end of last year.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Meeting on severe weather emergency in Emilia Romagna

    Source: Government of Italy (English)

    20 Settembre 2024

    The President of the Council of Ministers, Giorgia Meloni, chaired a video-link meeting with Emilia Romagna today on the severe weather emergency that has hit the region. The meeting was attended by Minister for Civil Protection and Marine Policies Nello Musumeci, Undersecretary of State to the Presidency of the Council of Ministers Alfredo Mantovano, acting Vice-President of the Emilia Romagna Region Irene Priolo, Head of the Civil Protection Department Fabio Ciciliano and Special government commissioner for reconstruction in the flood-hit Emilia Romagna, Tuscany and Marche regions Francesco Paolo Figliuolo.

    President Meloni reaffirmed the Government’s solidarity with the people who have been affected by the violent natural disasters over the last few days and received the latest updates on the situation of displaced persons and the progress of rescue operations. President Meloni also provided assurance that, as soon as the Government receives the request to declare a state of emergency from the Emilia Romagna Region, a Council of Ministers meeting will be called to earmark EUR 20 million in order to provide for immediate needs and restore essential services, and that further allocations will be made available upon completion of post-emergency assessments

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Audience with members of the Italian Financial Police on the occasion of the 250th anniversary of its founding

    Source: The Holy See

    Audience with members of the Italian Financial Police on the occasion of the 250th anniversary of its founding, 21.09.2024
    This morning, in the Vatican Apostolic Palace, the Holy Father Francis received in audience the members of the Italian Financial Police on the occasion of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the Corps, to whom he delivered the following address:

    Address of the Holy Father
    Mr. Minister,
    Mr. General,
    Your Excellency and dear Chaplains,
    Dear Members of the Financial Police,
    I welcome you with pleasure: I saw you this morning when you were entering here. I greet the Minister of Economy and Finance, the Commander General and all the officials. I greet and thank the Bishop Military Ordinary and the chaplains.
    “In tradition, the future”. This is the motto of your 250th anniversary. In tradition there is the future. It refers to the roots that led to the founding of the Italian Financial Police, and gave a direction for growth. Born as a special Corps for financial surveillance and border defence, it has taken on the tasks of tax and economic-financial police, and sea policing, with an important mission in the field of rescue, both at sea and in the mountains. A historical reminder of this commitment is the help offered to Jewish refugees and the persecuted during the two great world wars.
    A vast sphere of intervention, therefore, which aims to respond to problems with the tangibility of presence and timely action, while at the same time conveying a cultural alternative to certain evils that threaten to contaminate society.
    Your Patron is Saint Matthew – today is his feast day – apostle and evangelist. Indeed, he was a “publican”, a tax collector, an occupation doubly despised in Jesus’ time, because it was subservient to imperial power, and because it was corrupt. I like to go to the church of the French to see that painting by Caravaggio, “The conversion of Matthew”, which symbolizes this so deeply. He represented a utilitarian and unscrupulous mentality, devoted only to the “god of money”.
    In our times too, a similar logic affects social life, causing imbalances and marginalization: from food wastage – but this is a scandal, food wastage is a scandal! – from this waste, to the exclusion of citizens from benefiting from some of their rights. Even the State can end up a victim of this system; including those States that have vast resources but remain isolated in terms of finance or the global market. How does one explain hunger in the world today, when there is so, so much waste in developed societies? It is terrible. And another thing: if the production of weapons were to cease for a year, world hunger would end. Better to have weapons than solve hunger… Even the State can fall victim to this system: even those States which, despite having resources, as I said, remain isolated.
    In this panorama, you are required to contribute to the justice of economic relationships, verifying compliance with the rules that govern the activities of individuals and businesses. Therefore, you oversee the duty of every citizen to contribute to the needs of the State according to equitable criteria, without favouring the strongest, and you counter the inappropriate use of the internet and social networks. With regard to both tax collection and the fight against undeclared and underpaid work – this is a scandal – or in any case work that is detrimental to human dignity, your action is of paramount importance.
    And all this is your concrete and daily way of serving the common good, of being close to the people, of fighting corruption and promoting legality. That corruption that takes place under the table, no?
    The word ‘corrupt’ “is reminiscent of the broken heart, stained by something, the ruined heart. […] Corruption reveals an anti-social conduct so strong that it dissolves the validity of the relationships and pillars on which a society is founded”. Therefore, the answer, the alternative does not lie in norms alone, but in a “new humanism”.[1] To re-found humanity.
    The gaze of Jesus, placed on the young Matthew, says that the dignity and the life of man are the heart of the life of a people. You can contribute to the emergence of this new humanism also through your work in the service of the young people who apply to enter the Financial Police Corps and attend its schools. Initially they are perhaps looking only for a job, but they then find a specific training, which not only provides them with indispensable knowledge and experience, but also becomes education for life and the common good.
    Matthew, in a certain sense, moved from the logic of profit to that of equity. But, in the school of Jesus, he also went beyond equity and justice and came to know gratuitousness, the gift of self that generates solidarity, sharing, inclusion. Gratuitousness is not just a financial dimension, it is a human dimension. Entering into the service of others, freely, without seeking profit for oneself. Because while justice is necessary, justice is not enough to fill those gaps that only gratuitousness, charity and love can heal.
    You experience this, for example, when you organize the reception and rescue of migrants in danger in the Mediterranean: thank you for this, thank you. Or in your courageous interventions in the event of natural disasters, in Italy and elsewhere. But think of the fight against the scourge of drug trafficking, the merchants of death. Your service does not end with protection of the victims, but includes the attempt to help the rebirth of those who do wrong: indeed, by acting with respect and moral integrity you can touch consciences, showing the possibility of a different life.
    In this way to one can and must construct an alternative to the globalization of indifference – the globalization of indifference: provide an alternative to this – this globalization of indifference, which not only destroys with violence and war, but also neglects social care and the environment. In effect, the wealth of a nation is not solely in its GDP; it resides in its natural, artistic, cultural and religious heritage – and in the smile of its inhabitants, its children. Once, a head of State said to me: “I have a special measurement: the smile of children and the elderly. When both of them smile, things are not going too badly in a society”. It is curious, this … and this favours creativity, openness to the world. You yourselves are citizens who safeguard this “wealth” of Italy, but are ready to go on international missions. There is a need for this impetus to solidarity towards the other as a way to peace and as a hope for a better future!
    Brothers and sisters, I congratulate you, because you cooperate to foster the confidence and hope of the people. This people, that is all of us. And to nurture confidence, hope, smiles. I come back to this: the thermometer is, do the children smile? Do the elderly smile? Don’t forget. And this important anniversary fits well with the theme of the Jubilee that the Church is preparing to celebrate, which is “Pilgrims of Hope”. I bless you from my heart, I bless your work and families. Please, do not lose your sense of humour, please! This is healthy! And I ask you, please, to pray for me. Thank you.

    _____________________________________________________
    [1] Preface in Peter Turkson, Corrosion: combatting corruption in the Church and in society, Bologna 2017.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Traveler consultation: Have your say on the use of technology at the border

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Government of Canada – in French 1

    Traveler consultation: Have your say on the use of technology at the border

    August 1, 2024

    Ottawa, Ontario

    The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is working to make travel easier while keeping our borders secure. We are implementing tools and technologies and updating processes, laws and policies to build the border of the future.

    We are modernizing our services to meet the growing number of travellers, economic and migration trends, security threats including terrorism and organized crime, and the needs of travellers who want easier and faster self-service processing. Digital solutions will improve the border experience by reducing wait times for travellers and person-to-person interactions at the border, and allowing officers to focus on more targeted activities.

    The CBSA today launched a online survey which allows travelers to report their experiences and give their opinions on the Advance Declaration and future border tools. The survey is available from August 1 to September 26.

    The survey results will inform the planning and implementation of new and existing border tools, and identify areas for improvement. In addition to this survey, the Agency has engaged and will continue to engage with civil society groups, Indigenous groups, industry stakeholders, other government departments and its front-line employees.

    For further information or to arrange an interview with a CBSA representative, please contact:

    Media Relations Canada Border Services Agencymedia@cbsa-asfc.gc.ca1-877-761-5945

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: CBSA temporarily suspends removals to Lebanon

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Government of Canada – in French 1

    September 27, 2024 Ottawa, Ontario

    The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has issued a temporary suspension of removals to Lebanon. This measure is being taken given that the situation in Lebanon is volatile and unpredictable due to violence and escalating clashes, including daily rocket and missile attacks, as well as airstrikes.

    The temporary suspension, known as an administrative deferral of removals (ADR), is imposed under subsection 230(1)(c) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations, on countries that are considered unsafe due to conditions such as environmental disasters or acts of violence.

    The SAR does not apply to persons who are inadmissible on grounds of criminality, serious criminality, violations of international or human rights laws, organized crime or security.

    Once the situation in Lebanon has stabilized and circumstances no longer pose a generalized risk to the entire civilian population, the SAR will be lifted and the CBSA will resume removals for individuals who are inadmissible to Canada and subject to an enforceable removal order.

    Quick Facts

    By law, the CBSA has a duty to remove inadmissible persons as soon as possible. Every person subject to a removal order from Canada has the right to due process before the law. Once individuals have exhausted all legal avenues of appeal or due process, they must leave Canada or be removed. There are currently 15 SARs in place for countries around the world. This list is available on the CBSA website:Arrests, Detentions and Removals – Removal from Canada.

    Contact persons

    Media Relations Canada Border Services Agencymedia@cbsa-asfc.gc.ca1-877-761-5945

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Independent Afghan journalists and media win 2024 Canada-UK Press Freedom Award

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Government of Canada – in French

    Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Honourable Mélanie Joly, and the United Kingdom’s Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Africa), HE Lord Collins of Highbury, presented the award to Amu TV CEO Lotfullah Najafizada on behalf of his fellow journalists and independent Afghan media.

    September 27, 2024 – New York, United States of America – Global Affairs Canada

    The 2024 Canada-UK Press Freedom Award was presented today to independent Afghan journalists and media outlets for their courage in reporting despite restrictions imposed by the Taliban.

    Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Honourable Mélanie Joly, and the United Kingdom’s Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Africa), HE Lord Collins of Highbury, presented the award to Amu TV CEO Lotfullah Najafizada on behalf of his fellow journalists and independent Afghan media.

    This award is a testament to Canada and the UK’s enduring commitment to supporting free and independent journalism.

    Every day, independent Afghan journalists and media continue to provide a platform for uncensored information and hope in Afghanistan in the face of severe repression by the Taliban since August 2021.

    Journalists and independent media are facing the risks posed by the Taliban’s harsh crackdown on journalism, working courageously to ensure press freedom is maintained in a difficult climate. They are reporting on the critical issues facing Afghanistan under Taliban rule, including human rights violations and the plight of women and girls, including forced marriages and denial of access to education.

    Established in 2020, the Canada–UK Press Freedom Award recognizes individuals who have defended freedom of expression and democracy.

    Egyptian online newspaper Mada Masr won the award in 2023. Vietnamese journalist Pham Doan Trang was the winner in 2022, and the 2020 prize went to the Belarusian Association of Journalists.

    The announcement of the 2024 prize takes place during the high-level week of the United Nations General Assembly.

    The Media Freedom Coalition, which was co-founded by the United Kingdom and Canada and now has more than 50 members, celebrated its fifth anniversary during the week’s activities.

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Apostolic Journey of His Holiness Francis in Luxembourg and Belgium (26 to 29 September 2024) – Courtesy Visit to the King of the Belgians and Meeting with the Authorities and Civil Society in the Castle of Laeken

    Source: The Holy See

    Apostolic Journey of His Holiness Francis in Luxembourg and Belgium (26 to 29 September 2024) – Courtesy Visit to the King of the Belgians and Meeting with the Authorities and Civil Society in the Castle of Laeken, 27.09.2024
    Courtesy Visit to the King of the Belgians
    This morning, after celebrating Holy Mass privately, the Holy Father Francis transferred by car to the Castle of Laeken for the courtesy visit to the King of the Belgians, His Majesty Philippe Leopold Lodewijk Maria and Queen Mathilde d’Udekem d’Acoz.
    Upon arrival, at 9.30, a Guard of Honour on horseback accompanied him to the main entrance of the Castle, where he was welcomed by the Belgian Royals.
    After the official photographs and the signing of the Book of Honour, the private meeting took place, followed by the exchange of gifts.
    At the end of the visit, the Pope, the King and the Queen transferred to the Grande Galerie of the Castle of Laeken for the meeting with the authorities and civil society.

    Meeting with the Authorities and Civil Society
    At 10.15, in the Grande Galerie of the Castle of Laeken, the Holy Father Francis met with political and religious authorities, businesspeople and representatives of civil society and culture.
    After the speeches of the King of Belgium and the Prime Minister, the Holy Father delivered his address.
    At the end of the meeting, after taking leave of the Royals and before returning to the Apostolic Nunciature, Pope Francis visited the Home Saint-Joseph in Brussels, a residence for elderly people in financial difficulty, where the Little Sisters of Charity are working.
    The following is the address delivered by the Holy Father during his meeting with the authorities and civil Society:

    Address of the Holy Father
    Your Majesty,Mr Prime Minister,Brother Bishops,Distinguished Authorities,Ladies and Gentlemen!
    I thank Your Majesty for your cordial welcome and kind words of greeting. I am very pleased to be visiting Belgium. When I think of this country, what comes to mind is something small yet great; a country in the west that at the same time is also at the centre, as if Belgium were the beating heart of an enormous organism.
    Indeed, it would be a mistake to judge the quality of a country by its geographical size. Belgium may not be a large state, yet its particular history has been impactful. Immediately after the Second World War, the exhausted and downhearted peoples of Europe, in beginning a profound process of peace, cooperation and integration, looked to your country as a natural location to establish key European institutions. This was because Belgium was on the fault line between the Germanic and Latin worlds, sandwiched between France and Germany, two countries that had most embodied the opposing nationalistic ideals underlying the conflict.
    We could describe Belgium as a bridge between the continent and the British Isles, between the Germanic and French-speaking regions, between southern and northern Europe. A bridge enabling concord to spread and disputes to abate. A bridge where all people, with their own languages, ways of thinking and beliefs can meet others and choose conversation, dialogue and sharing as the means of mutual interaction. A bridge where all can learn to make their own identity not an idol or barrier, but a welcoming place, from which to begin and then return; a place for promoting valuable personal exchanges, seeking together new social stability and building new agreements. Belgium is a bridge that promotes trade, connects and brings cultures into dialogue. An indispensable bridge, then, for rejecting war and building peace.
    It is thus easy to see how great little Belgium really is! How Europe needs Belgium to remind it that its history comprises peoples and cultures, cathedrals and universities, achievements of human ingenuity, but also many wars and the will to dominate that sometimes led to colonialism and exploitation.
    Europe needs Belgium in order to continue along the path of peace and of fraternity among its peoples. Indeed, Belgium is a reminder to all others that when nations disregard borders or breach treaties by employing the most varied and untenable excuses, and when they use weapons to replace actual law with the principle of “might is right”, then they open Pandora’s box, unleashing violent storms that batter the house, threatening to destroy it. At this moment in history, I think Belgium plays a very important role. It seems we are close to a world war.
    Moreover, peace and harmony are never won once and for all. On the contrary, they are a duty and a mission – concord and peace is a task and a mission – one that needs to be undertaken unceasingly, with great care and patience. For when human beings forget the memory of the past and its valuable lessons, they run the dangerous risk of once again falling backwards, even after having moved on, forgetting the suffering and appalling costs paid by previous generations. Human beings forget the past, but it is curious as there are other forces, both in society and in individuals, that make us fall repeatedly into the same mistakes.
    In this regard, Belgium is more essential than ever for keeping alive the memory of the European continent. Indeed, it provides an irrefutable argument for developing a timely and continuous cultural, social and political movement that, at the same time, is both courageous and prudent. A movement that excludes from the future the idea and practice of war as a viable option with all its catastrophic consequences.
    Furthermore, history is the often unheeded magistra vitae and Belgium’s history calls Europe to return to its path, rediscover its true identity, and invest once again in the future by opening itself to life and hope by overcoming the demographic winter and the torments of war! These are the two calamities we face right now. We are seeing the nightmare of war, which can still turn into a world war. And the demographic winter; that is why we have to be pragmatic and have more children!
    In bearing witness to its faith in the Risen Christ, the Catholic Church wishes to be a presence offering individuals, families, societies and nations a hope both ancient and ever new. A presence helping everyone to face challenges and difficulties, not with frivolous enthusiasm or bleak pessimism, but with the certainty that humanity, loved by God, is not destined to collapse into nothingness, but is eternally called to goodness and peace.
    Fixing her gaze on Jesus, the Church always recognizes herself as the disciple who follows her Master with fear and trembling. While she knows that she is holy, for she has been founded by the Lord, she experiences at the same time the fragility and shortcomings of her members; saints and sinners who are never fully up to the task entrusted to them since it is always beyond their capacity.
    The Church proclaims the good news that can fill our hearts with joy. Through works of charity and countless examples of love for our neighbour, the Church seeks to offer concrete and trusted signs of the love that motivates her. Yet, she always lives in a specific culture, within the thinking of a given age that she sometimes helps to shape and to which at other times she is subjected; and her members do not always understand and live the message of the Gospel in all its purity and fullness. The Church is holy but has sinful members.
    In this perennial coexistence of sanctity and sin, light and shadow, the Church carries out her mission, often with examples of great generosity and heartfelt dedication, but sadly, at times, with the emergence of painful counter-testimonies. I refer to the tragic instances of child abuse – also referenced by the King and the Prime Minister – which is a scourge that the Church is addressing firmly and decisively by listening to and accompanying those who have been wounded, and by implementing a prevention programme throughout the world.
    Brothers and sisters, it is shameful! It is a shame that we have to address this situation, ask for pardon and solve the problem: the shame of child abuse. We think of the time of the Holy Innocents and say, “Oh what a tragedy, what did King Herod do!” but today there is this crime in the Church. The Church must be ashamed, ask for pardon and try to solve this situation with Christian humility and by putting in all the measures necessary to ensure that it does not happen again. Someone might say to me, “Your Holiness, according to the statistics, the vast majority of abuse are in the family, in the neighbourhood, in the world of sport or in school. Yet, even one case is enough for us to be ashamed! In the Church we must ask pardon for this; others can ask forgiveness for their part. This is our shame and humiliation.
    In this regard, I was saddened to learn about the practice of “forced adoptions” that also took place here in Belgium between the 1950s and the 1970s. In those poignant stories, we see how the bitter fruit of wrongdoing and criminality was mixed in with what was unfortunately the prevailing view in all parts of society at that time. This was so much the case that many believed in conscience that they were doing something good for both the child and the mother.
    Frequently, the family and other actors in society, including within the Church, thought that in order to avoid the stigma that unfortunately fell upon unmarried mothers in those times, it would be preferable for the good of both the child and the mother that the child be given up for adoption. There were even cases in which some women were not given the possibility of choosing between keeping their children or giving them up for adoption. This is actually happening today in some cultures and countries.
    As the successor of the Apostle Peter, I pray to the Lord that the Church will always find within herself the strength to bring clarity and never conform to the predominant culture, even when that culture uses, in a manipulative way, values derived from the Gospel, drawing from it inauthentic conclusions that cause suffering and exclusion.
    I pray that the leaders of the nations, by looking at Belgium and its history, will be able to learn from it. In this way, they can spare their peoples endless misfortunes and sorrow. I likewise pray that those in government will know how to take up the responsibility, the risk and the honour of peace, knowing how to avoid the danger, disgrace and absurdity of war. I pray too that they will fear the judgment of conscience, of history and of God, so that their hearts and minds will be converted so as always to put the common good first. At this time when the economy has developed so much, I would like to point out that in some countries the most profitable investments are in arms manufacturing.
    Your Majesty, Ladies and Gentlemen, the motto of my visit to your country is “En route, avec Espérance”. The fact that Espérance is written with a capital letter leads me to reflect that hope is not merely something to be carried in our luggage on a journey. Instead, hope is a gift from God, perhaps the most humble virtue – the writer said – and the one that never fails, never disappoints. Hope is a gift from God to be carried in our hearts. I would like to leave you, then, with the following wish for you and for all those living in Belgium: may you always ask this gift of hope from the Holy Spirit, and welcome it in order to walk together with hope along the path of life and history. Thank you!

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: ASIA/HOLY LAND – The relic of the blood of St. Francis brought to the Holy Land, in a pilgrimage to invoke peace

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Italy –

    Source: The Holy See in Italian

    Rome (Agenzia Fides) – “After 800 years we bring St. Francis back to the Holy Land to try to be, like him, capable of crossing borders in a wounded place, just as eight centuries ago the Poverello went on a pilgrimage to the holy places in an equally difficult time, because marked by the crusades, with the desire to build bridges and not walls”. Thus, Brother Matteo Brena, Commissioner of the Holy Land of the Friars Minor of Tuscany and coordinator of the Committee for the eight hundredth anniversary of the stigmata of Saint Francis, announces that from September 30 to October 5, together with 10 other people, including friars and lay people, he will bring the relic of the blood of Saint Francis of Assisi to the Holy Land, while war rages and while the people in these troubled territories are suffering, fear, mourning, precarious. “We leave – continues Brother Matteo – with a great desire in our hearts: to be that ‘small remnant’ that can be the bearer, in this new dramatic moment for the Middle East, of a sign of consolation and a word of hope. ‘From the wounds, new life’ was the motto of the eighth centenary of the stigmata of Saint Francis; and we, bringing to Jerusalem and Bethlehem the relic of his blood, which flowed from the signs of the passion on his body, try to tell those brothers and sisters that it is possible to inhabit the wounds with hope and with a desire for the future”. The delegation, composed of four friars and six lay people, including representatives of the Franciscan Youth and the Secular Franciscan Order, will travel between Jerusalem and Bethlehem to bring the relic to the Christian communities of the area, meeting the local people and also visiting some places that are symbols of the commitment that Christians carry out to bring peace to the land where Jesus lived. October 2 will be one of the central moments of the trip: in fact, the twinning between the Basilica of Gethsemane, a place that preserves the memory of the dramatic hours of Christ’s passion, and the Sanctuary of La Verna will be established. The twinning will also establish the bond between the two hermitages. The ceremony will be attended by Fra’ Francesco Patton, Custos of the Holy Land, and Fra’ Livio Crisci, Provincial Minister of the Friars Minor of Tuscany. “This year – adds Fra’ Brena – the Basilica of Gethsemane celebrates a century since it was built, in 1924, together with the Basilica of the Transfiguration, by the Italian architect Antonio Barluzzi, who died in 1960 in Rome in the convent of the Delegation of the Holy Land. We will therefore also include ourselves in the initiatives of this centenary.” “United in prayer, we accompany these brothers of ours on the pilgrimage between Jerusalem and Bethlehem,” affirm the Franciscan fraternities from all over Italy. Eight hundred years ago, in September 1224, Francis of Assisi received the Sacred Stigmata on Mount Verna, in the Arezzo area. On that occasion the friar was conformed to Christ Crucified and a part of his habit, soaked in the blood of the side, became an important relic, as a perpetual testimony of that event, guarded by the Friars Minor. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 28/9/2024) Share:

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Africa: From darkness to light: Local bakeries and homes flourish under Benin’s new urban electricity project

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

    ABIDJAN, Ivory Coast, September 28, 2024/APO Group/ —

    The bustling sound of dough kneading fills the air at Pierre Gbenou Tito Dossou’s bakery in Okoun-Sèmè, Benin, as the once energy-starved business now hums along smoothly. Orders for bread, croissants, and chocolate pastries are met on time, a feat Dossou attributes to a newly stable power supply.

    “I struggled with electricity shortages for over a decade,” Dossou explains, reflecting on the bakery’s early years. “Generators didn’t work, and I couldn’t connect to the grid because our area was too remote. I had to rely on weak power from neighboring connections.” His fortunes changed last year (2023) when new pylons and a large transformer brought reliable electricity to his district.

    “I felt like I won the lottery,” Dossou said with a smile. The new infrastructure brought streetlights, safer streets, and individual electric meters. “Since then, our work has been seamless. And even burglars have reduced,” he adds.

    Other residents like Moussa Moudachirou, who is in his early 30s, have also experienced a positive shift. “Before, we had to borrow electricity from neighbors, but now we’re connected to our own meter at home,” he says. Now, with his own digital and economical meter, his family’s expenses have halved. “We now last three weeks on a 5,000 FCFA top-up card,” Moudachirou explains, expressing gratitude to the project’s donors while urging them to extend the benefits to others.

    The Dossou and Moudachirou families are some of the beneficiaries of Benin’s Sub-Transmission and Distribution System Restructuring and Extension Project, which aims to improve electricity access in the West African country. The project is funded by the African Development Fund, the concessional window of the African Development Bank Group, which provided a $9.08 million loan and a $7.28 million grant, alongside a $17.79 million loan from the French Development Agency. The Benin government contributed $3.68 million.

    Launched in 2018 and slated for completion in late 2025, the project is set to increase access to electricity across Benin’s major cities and secondary towns, such as Abomey, Bohicon and Lokossa. In addition to expanding access, the project aims to improve the quality of the electricity supply and cut energy waste. In 2015, it was estimated that the Electricity Corporation of Benin’s networks were losing 23 percent of their energy.

    For many like Mouniratou Tiamiou, who once endured frequent power cuts, life has vastly improved. “Brownouts damaged our appliances, and burglars took advantage of the darkness. But since the project lit up the area, we have had no problems,” she says, thankful for the newfound security and stability the electricity project has brought to her home.

    As Okoun-Seme’s businesses thrive and homes become more secure, the project is proving to be a vital boost for Benin’s energy landscape.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Statement by the Prime Minister on International Abortion Rights Day

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Prime Minister of Canada – in French

    The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on International Abortion Rights Day:

    “Abortion is health care. Family planning is health care. It’s that simple.”

    “On this International Abortion Rights Day, we reaffirm unequivocally that every woman has the right to make decisions about her body, her life and her future. We reflect on the freedoms women have won. We renew our commitment to the progress we cannot risk losing. Finally, we fight hard to protect women’s freedom of choice.

    “Our government is proudly pro-choice and always will be. That’s why we’re taking action to expand sexual and reproductive health care across the country. With theFund for Sexual and Reproductive Health, we are breaking down barriers, increasing access to these essential services, and supporting community organizations across Canada that help deliver this care. Funding is specifically targeted to projects that aim to improve access to safe abortion for women, youth, Indigenous people, racialized people, and 2SLGBTQI communities.

    “Being pro-choice means more than just supporting women’s right to choose. It means increasing the choices available to them. Earlier this year, our government announced Bill C-64, the first phase of our pharmacare plan, which will provide universal coverage for a range of contraceptives. With $1.5 billion in federal investments, we are making medications and contraceptives free – from birth control pills to IUDs, implants and the morning-after pill – so women can decide whether, when and how to start a family. With this coverage, nine million women will benefit from greater choice and, most importantly, more affordable options. This will mean that cost will no longer be a barrier to their reproductive freedom. Earlier this month, we jointly announced with the Government of British Columbia that we intend to expand coverage for birth control and diabetes medications for residents of that province. Following the passage of Bill C-64, we plan to begin formal negotiations. We encourage each province and territory to do the same.

    “Our commitment to expanding access to safe sexual and reproductive health services extends beyond our borders. As part of our 10-year commitment to global health and rights, we are making transformative investments to support the sexual and reproductive health and rights of women and girls around the world. From 2022 to 2023, we have increased our global investments in safe abortion and post-abortion care by more than 50%. As part of ourFeminist International Aid Policy, we play a leading role on the world stage in promoting greater gender equality. And through our action and commitment, our message is that sexual and reproductive care is health care.

    “As threats to women increase around the world, some people march to celebrate. Others stand down and cut funding for health care. Some say one thing and do another. And others choose to remain silent and are almost ashamed to speak out in support of reproductive health.

    “We will not do that. No government or politician should dictate to a woman what she can and cannot do with her body. On this International Abortion Rights Day, as on every other day, we are following through on our commitment to building a safer, fairer and more prosperous future for everyone.”

    The Government of Canada recently published onlineresources on topics related to sexual and reproductive health, including abortion, gender-affirming care and other sexual health care information. These resources aim to improve Canadians’ access to accurate sexual and reproductive health information.

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Video: 80th Anniversary Operation Union II

    Source: US Marines (video statements)

    During World War II, a small operational detachment from the Office of Strategic Services parachuted behind enemy lines into the German-controlled French Alps to arm, train, and organize the French resistance fighters on August 1, 1944.

    #Marine Maj. Peter Ortiz led the OSS team of five other Marines, an Army Air Corps Captain, and a French resistance fighter wearing a Marine Corps uniform.

    The operation ultimately led to them being surrounded by German forces in the town of Centron, where the team willingly surrendered to save the local civilian population. Eighty years later, their actions are remembered by U.S. and French service members and civilians.

    Marine Sgt. Kedrick Schumacher and Gunnery Sgt. Donato Maffin

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6vy_7W5JCRg

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/HOLY LAND – The relic of the blood of Saint Francis brought to the Holy Land during a pilgrimage to invoke peace

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Rome (Agenzia Fides) – “After 800 years, we bring Saint Francis back to the Holy Land to try to be, like him, able to cross borders in a wounded place, just as, eight centuries ago, the Poverello went on a pilgrimage to the holy places in an equally difficult time, marked by the Crusades, with the desire to build bridges and not walls.” This is how Brother Matteo Brena, Commissioner of the Holy Land of the Friars Minor of Tuscany and coordinator of the Committee for the 800th anniversary of the stigmata of St. Francis, announces that from September 30 to October 5, together with 10 other people, brothers and lay people, he will carry the relic of the blood of St. Francis of Assisi to the Holy Land, while war rages and the populations of these troubled territories are in suffering, fear, mourning and precariousness.”We set out,” continues Brother Matthew, “with a great desire in our hearts: to be that “little remnant” that knows how to be the bearer, in this new dramatic situation for the Middle East, of a sign of consolation and a word of hope. From the wounds, a new life” was the motto of the eighth centenary of the stigmata of St. Francis; and we, by bringing to Jerusalem and Bethlehem the relic of his blood, which flowed from the signs of the passion on his body, try to tell those brothers and sisters that it is possible to inhabit the wounds with hope and with a desire for the future.”The delegation, made up of four brothers and six lay people, including representatives of the Franciscan Youth and the Secular Franciscan Order, will travel between Jerusalem and Bethlehem to bring the relic to the Christian communities of the area, meeting the local population and visiting some of the symbolic places of the commitment of Christians to pacify the land where Jesus lived. One of the highlights of the trip will take place on October 2: the twinning between the Basilica of Gethsemane, a place that preserves the memory of the dramatic hours of Christ’s passion, and the Sanctuary of La Verna will be sanctioned. The twinning will also sanction the link between the two hermitages. The ceremony will take place in the presence of Fra’ Francesco Patton, Custos of the Holy Land, and Fra’ Livio Crisci, Provincial Minister of the Friars Minor of Tuscany.”This year,” adds Brother Brena, “the Basilica of Gethsemane is one hundred years old since its construction in 1924, together with the Basilica of the Transfiguration, by the Italian architect Antonio Barluzzi, who died in 1960 in Rome in the convent of the Delegation of the Holy Land. We will therefore also participate in the initiatives of this centenary.””United in prayer, let us accompany our brothers on the pilgrimage between Jerusalem and Bethlehem,” say the Franciscan Fraternities throughout Italy. 800 years ago, in September 1224, Francis of Assisi received the Stigmata on the mountain of La Verna, near Arezzo. On that occasion, the brother conformed to the crucified Christ and a part of his habit, soaked in the blood of his side, became an important relic, a perpetual testimony of that event, preserved by the Friars Minor. (PA) (Agenzia Fides, 28/9/2024)
    Share:

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Canada provides humanitarian assistance to meet needs in Lebanon

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Government of Canada – in French 1

    Canada is extremely concerned about the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, a terrorist organization, in Lebanon, which has caused a rapid increase in humanitarian needs. More than 90,000 people have been displaced in Lebanon since the beginning of September.

    September 28, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

    Canada is extremely concerned about the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, a terrorist organization, in Lebanon, which has caused a rapid increase in humanitarian needs. More than 90,000 people have been displaced in Lebanon since the beginning of September.

    Today, the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development, announced that Canada will provide $10 million in humanitarian assistance to address the urgent needs of the civilian population in Lebanon. This funding will provide food, water, emergency medical assistance (including sexual and reproductive health services), protection services and other life-saving assistance.

    This funding is in addition to the US$10 million already allocated to this crisis by the United Nations Central Emergency Response Fund, to which Canada is a major donor.

    Together with our partners, we call for an immediate 21-day ceasefire on the Israeli-Lebanese border to allow diplomacy to work towards a diplomatic settlement consistent with UN Security Council Resolution 1701, and towards the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 2735 regarding a ceasefire in Gaza.

    Canada urges all parties to protect the civilian population from violence, including humanitarian workers, in accordance with international humanitarian law.

    Canada continues to monitor the situation and remains in close communication with its humanitarian partners to assess and respond to evolving needs.

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Offers Disaster Assistance to Businesses and Residents of Vermont Affected by Severe Storms, Flooding, Landslides and Mudslides

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    WASHINGTON – Low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) are available to businesses and residents in Vermont following the announcement of a Presidential disaster declaration for severe storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides that occurred July 29-31.

    “SBA’s mission-driven team stands ready to help Vermont small businesses and residents impacted by this disaster in every way possible under President Biden’s disaster declaration for certain affected areas,” said SBA Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman. “We’re committed to providing federal disaster loans swiftly and efficiently, with a customer-centric approach to help businesses and communities recover and rebuild.”

    The disaster declaration covers Caledonia, Essex and Orleans counties which are eligible for both Physical and Economic Injury Disaster Loans from the SBA. Small businesses and most private nonprofit organizations in the following adjacent counties are eligible to apply only for SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs):  Franklin, Lamoille, Orange and Washington in Vermont; and Coos and Grafton in 
    New Hampshire.

    SBA’s Business Recovery Center (BRC) is open to assist businesses complete their disaster loan application, accept documents, and provide updates on an application’s status.  Walk-ins are accepted, but you can schedule an in-person appointment at an SBA Business Recovery Center in advance.  The Center will operate as indicated below.  

    Business Recovery Center (BRC)

    Washington County  

    Barre Municipal Auditorium

    20 Auditorium Hill  

    Barre, VT 05641

    Hours:          Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

                          Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

    Closed:        Sunday

    Disaster survivors should not wait to settle with their insurance company before applying for a disaster loan. If a survivor does not know how much of their loss will be covered by insurance or other sources, SBA can make a low-interest disaster loan for the total loss up to its loan limits, provided the borrower agrees to use insurance proceeds to reduce or repay the loan.

    Businesses and private nonprofit organizations of any size may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.  

    For small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations, the SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. Economic Injury Disaster Loan assistance is available regardless of whether the business suffered any physical property damage.

    Disaster loans up to $500,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $100,000 to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed personal property.

    Interest rates are as low as 4% for businesses, 3.25% for nonprofit organizations, and 2.688% for homeowners and renters, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and monthly payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the initial disbursement. Loan amounts and terms are set by the SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    Building back smarter and stronger can be an effective recovery tool for future disasters. Applicants may be eligible for a loan amount increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements may include a safe room or storm shelter, sump pump, French drain or retaining wall to help protect property and occupants from future disasters.  

    “SBA’s disaster loan program offers an important advantage–the chance to incorporate measures that can reduce the risk of future damage,” said Francisco Sánchez, Jr., associate administrator for the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the Small Business Administration. “Work with contractors and mitigation professionals to strengthen your property and take advantage of the opportunity to request additional SBA disaster loan funds for these proactive improvements.”  

    With the changes to FEMA’s Sequence of Delivery, survivors are now encouraged to simultaneously apply for FEMA grants and the SBA low-interest disaster loan assistance to fully recover.  FEMA grants are intended to cover necessary expenses and serious needs not paid by insurance or other sources. The SBA disaster loan program is designed for your long-term recovery, to make you whole and get you back to your pre-disaster condition.  Do not wait on the decision for a FEMA grant; apply online and receive additional disaster assistance information at sba.gov/disaster.  

    Applicants may also call the SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or send an email to disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is Nov. 25, 2024. The deadline to return economic injury applications is June 26, 2025.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration  

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Shanghai showcases works of over 15 global graffiti artists

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Shanghai A.F.A collaborates with the globally renowned Museum of Graffiti from the United States to present its first Chinese exhibition at ROJO Art Space: “Street Echoes – Global Graffiti Art Exhibition.” The exhibition will run from October 1 to December.

    After nearly a year of preparation, the exhibition features over 15 graffiti artists from around the world, including Museum of Graffiti Founder Alan Ket and the legendary figure John Andrew Perello, also known as Jon One. These artists come from various countries, including the United States, Switzerland, France, South Korea, and China.

    Joy Chang, the exhibition director, said that graffiti art, like any other art form, has now become one of the mainstream art forms and has undergone significant changes over the years.

    “From the late 20th century to the present, graffiti art has transitioned from underground to mainstream. In the past, graffiti artists used public spaces to express their ideas and will through words and images. Now, graffiti is gradually influencing young trends, spreading this art form to younger demographics through collaborations across fashion brands, music, and sports,” Chang explained.

    “We aim to enhance people’s understanding of graffiti art through the exhibition and offer Chinese consumers and the public the opportunity to acquaint themselves with top graffiti artists from around the world and their esteemed works,” she added.

    She said that at the exhibition venue visitors can witness the scenes such as New York subway cars, skate parks, rooftop billboards, public restrooms, and phone booths — locales where graffiti artists originally brought their creations to life in urban settings.

    In addition to showcasing hundreds of influential graffiti artworks from around the globe to the audience, the exhibition also features live painting.

    During the live painting session, Jon One expressed, “I really appreciate the creative approach of Chinese artists. I have incorporated elements from the East and Asia into my artworks, adding a fresh perspective to graffiti while maintaining the tradition of street art. I believe this is what makes it unique.”

    Alan Ket, who founded the world’s first graffiti art museum in 2018, remarked, “Bringing the Museum of Graffiti to China is a very big deal for the museum because our mission is to present, to exhibit, to preserve, and to educate about this art form. And coming here gives us an opportunity to share all the history all the things that we’ve learned, all about the people and the development over 50 years.”

    Dedicated to promoting graffiti, Ket said, “It is my hope that many people come here to see this exhibition to learn what we believe is a very important art form.”

    As a veteran in the graffiti scene, Ket encourages aspiring artists who are just beginning to explore graffiti to courageously pick up their brushes and delve into the history.

    “There is a long history before today. The more that you have an understanding of the past, the better it will be to make new works. Then the biggest thing is you have to practice, pick up paint, learn from fail and start again,” he emphasized.

    To offer more opportunities for Chinese graffiti enthusiasts and those unfamiliar with graffiti to learn more about this art form, Ket intends to publish more related books in the future.

    “I believe we are open to moving around the world and presenting wherever the opportunities come anywhere in China, anywhere in Asia, really anywhere in the world, but our focus is on education,” Ket affirmed.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Discovery day of the Drize construction site in the heart of the future districts of the Praille Acacias Vernets (PAV) project on October 5, 2024 in Sicli

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

    Source: Switzerland – Canton Government of Geneva in French

    A discovery day of the Drize construction site is organized by the territorial department and the urban operator PAV. The public will have the opportunity to discover the work of restoring the Drize to the open air around the Sicli pavilion. On this occasion, exceptional access to the construction site of this first stage of 450 meters of river will be open to the public.

    Construction site focus on two key locations

    Launched at the end of 2023, the first stage of the work to restore the Drize to the open air in the Praille Acacias Vernets (PAV) area will allow the renaturation of 450 meters of river on two sections located on either side of the Route des Acacias, one on Rue Boissonnas, the other at the foot of the Pictet Campus in Rochemont currently under construction.

    These two sections will be available to visit on October 5 as part of tours organized and accompanied by professionals. Participants will be able to go down and see the structure under the Acacias road that allows the river to cross this major road axis. The installation of this exceptional structure of 15 concrete blocks of 50 to 60 tons was carried out during the coup de poing operation of the Easter weekend 2024.

    Another point of interest on the construction site: a 3D view of the Drize brought back into the open air in the future Acacias district from the Boissonnas viewpoint, complete with explanations on the role of water in an urban environment.

    A varied program for everyone

    The public is invited to discover the prototype wall of the Drize section. An opportunity to deepen one’s knowledge of the different stones used, ancestral masonry techniques and the benefits of the project in favor of biodiversity.

    Workshops for children are organized throughout the day on the theme of the river and water in an urban environment.

    Finally, the development project for the future districts of the Praille Acacias Vernets project will be presented around the large model installed in the Sicli pavilion. Professionals will be present to present the project to visitors and answer their questions.

    A unique project in Switzerland with a strong impact on the environment

    Restores the open air, the Drize will make it possible to secure the future districts built in the PAV perimeter against the risk of flooding and will become a real ecological corridor in the city center with a positive impact on the future districts of the PAV. It will contribute to the development of biodiversity and will bring freshness to the city.

    Along its banks, public spaces and a greenway for soft mobility as well as relaxation areas will be developed for the well-being of all. Finally, this renaturation will allow better management of urban water which will return to its natural cycle.

    By 2035, the entire original route of the Drize will return to the open air, crossing the future districts over 2.0 km between Grange-Collomb and the Arve.

    This open-air restoration of the Drize, eventually completed by that of the Aire, is part of the major regeneration project of the Praille Acacias Vernets area, the objective of which is to create nine new housing and business districts that meet the challenges of the ecological transition.

    Discovery day of the Drize construction site in Sicli (meeting place)

    Saturday October 5 from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

    Two visits every 30 minutes (last departure at 3:30 p.m.) A workshop and children’s walk every hour (last workshop at 3:00 p.m.) Photo exhibition of the construction site Presentation of the model of the Praille Acacias Vernets perimeter Prototype wall of the Drize Photo booth Small catering

    Practical arrangements

    Information and registration

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Europe: G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting Address by Jean-Noël Barrot Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs – Economic and Social Council Chamber (25.09.24)

    Source: Republic of France in English
    The Republic of France has issued the following statement:

    Colleagues,

    Ladies and gentlemen,

    I would like to thank the Brazilian G20 Presidency, and particularly Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira, for taking the initiative of organizing this meeting in a spirit of cohesion and cooperation.

    This year, we celebrate the 80th anniversary of the Bretton Woods Institutions, and the Secretary-General’s Summit of the Future is being held. This is a unique opportunity to reaffirm the importance of the multilateral system, built around the United Nations, and to speed up its reform.

    Despite imperfections, the existing system remains crucial in responding to the crises we face. It does however need to become fairer and more effective. There is no shortage of challenges: we have to fight poverty, inequalities and climate change. We need to prepare ourselves to respond to pandemics when they emerge.

    These are ambitions championed by Brazil under its G20 Presidency, and which it will champion under its Presidency of COP30 in Belém. We share these ambitions.

    The same spirit drives France’s clear, long-standing and constant support for Security Council, with its belief that both its membership categories need expanding.

    For 20 years we have been advocating better representation for Africa on the Security Council, including among the permanent members. That is key for the G4 model, and therefore for Brazil, whose aspirations to gain a permanent seat we support. France has moreover advocated for the G20 to invite the African Union to its meetings.

    In this same spirit of responsibility, France and Mexico promote an initiative that requires no amendment of the Charter and that would allow responsible veto use, with a commitment not to use a veto in the event of mass atrocities. I welcome the fact that many States around this table already support our initiative, and I call on all those that want to bring about change to join us.

    The General Assembly needs to be revitalized to make it more effective. It needs to guide us towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and respect for international law, humanitarian law and human rights.

    We also need to listen to what it has already told us. In October 2022, 143 Member States at the General Assembly affirmed their support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. In February 2023, 141 States called for the withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukraine. That message is clear.

    Reform should not be limited to the organs in New York. The international financial institutions also need an overhaul. We have managed to find additional financing from all available public and private sources. We will continue this effort, building on the momentum generated by the Paris Pact for Peoples and the Planet that has to date been endorsed by 62 States.

    The Pact has produced tangible results. I have in mind the deployment of innovative mechanisms, such as climate-resilient debt clauses. A Global Solidarity Levies Task Force, co-chaired by France, Kenya and Barbados, is operational and meets regularly to draw up innovative proposals aimed at making the financial system fairer and more equitable. I also have in mind our debt-relief action for developing countries.

    More specifically, the aspirations of developing countries need to be better addressed. That means they need to be better represented in these institutions. We have opened dialogue regarding a review of the shareholding of the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development and the 17th General Review of Quotas of the IMF.

    The World Trade Organization needs to be more effective in fighting protectionism and addressing new realities. We have all reached the same conclusion: our system needs to reconcile global trade and protection of the climate and biodiversity. So together, we need to develop rules and mechanisms that will make global trade and accelerator for the energy and ecological tradition worldwide.

    I would like to finish by saying that through its Call for Action, the G20 is showing that it aspires to make reform of global governance a tangible reality, enabling effective collective action. France undertakes to contribute to this reform in a constructive spirit, against fragmentation, in accordance with rules, and for the good of all our people.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Public Warning: Primary Aromatic Amines in a Mömax Potato Masher

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

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in French

    Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office

    Bern, 27.09.2024 – The Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (FSVO) is warning against the potato masher of the “modern living” brand from Mömax due to excessive migration of certain chemical compounds called “primary aromatic amines”. Since a health risk cannot be ruled out, the FSVO recommends that the population not use this product. Mömax has immediately withdrawn the product from sale and ordered a recall.

    How can this product be dangerous?Primary aromatic amines (PAAs) are chemical compounds that are used, for example, in the manufacture of certain dyes. Some of them are considered carcinogenic. An analysis has found an excessive migration of PAAs from the above-mentioned kitchen utensil.

    Which product is affected?Article, brand: Classic potato masher, modern livingBatch number: 4JA99Points of sale: All Mömax subsidiaries

    What should affected consumers do?

    The FSVO recommends that the population does not use this product.

    Address for sending questions

    Consumers: Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office FSVO Customer communication Tel. 41 58 463 30 33 info@blv.admin.ch

    Journalists: Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (FSVO) Media Service Tel. 41 58 463 78 98 media@blv.admin.ch

    Author

    Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Officehttp://www.blv.admin.ch

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI China: Lebanese FM condemns Israeli military actions, urges int’l intervention

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Lebanese Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib condemned on Thursday Israel’s recent military actions along the Lebanese-Israeli border and called for urgent international intervention to prevent the situation from escalating.

    “We are facing a crisis that threatens Lebanon’s very existence. The future of our people and our prosperity is imperiled,” said Bou Habib when addressing the 79th United Nations General Assembly.

    “This is a situation that requires international intervention on an urgent basis before the situation spirals out of control… which will transform into a black hole that will engulf regional, international peace and security,” he said.

    Bou Habib condemned Israel’s recent military actions, accusing it of escalating the conflict. “One of the gravest challenges Lebanon currently faces is this increase in aggression. The war has expanded and spilled over into Lebanese regions. We reiterate our warning against this aggression, which will continuously intensify.”

    The foreign minister identified the unresolved issue of occupation, particularly regarding border disputes with Israel, as the root cause of Lebanon’s ongoing instability.

    “So long as the occupation persists, there will be instability and there will be war… we have striven to resolve border disputes with Israel. However, Israel has continuously eluded the issue or disregarded the matter,” he said.

    While underscoring Lebanon’s right to defend itself under international law, Bou Habib stressed that the solution to the crisis lies in diplomacy, not war.

    Bou Habib welcomed a recent declaration of the United States and France which offers a potential path to restoring calm and ensuring stability along Lebanon’s borders. He urged all parties involved to implement UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which calls for an end to hostilities between Israel and Lebanon.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: How to protect yourself against attempts to steal your personal or banking data?

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

    Source: Republic of France in FrenchThe French Republic has issued the following statement:

    The platform “Bank Savings Insurance Info Service” was set up jointly by the Banque de France, the Prudential Supervision and Resolution Authority (ACPR) and the Financial Markets Authority (AMF). Its “Scam Prevention” section has been reorganized to help you better detect scams and have the right reflexes when faced with new techniques used by scammers who want to trap you. Among other things, you have access to a Official Scam Prevention Guide, telling you how to protect yourself against phishing.

    Phishing is a fraudulent technique that involves tricking you into sharing your personal data (access codes, passwords, etc.) and/or your bank details with a criminal who pretends to be a trusted third party.

    To protect yourself from these scam attempts, it is particularly recommended:

    to be attentive to the level of language of the messages you receive (fraudulent messages are now often correctly written, but if you receive a message from a bank or an administration containing typos, spelling mistakes or inappropriate expressions, it is because it is not the work of the indicated establishment); to check the links present in the suspicious emails that you receive (before clicking on a possible link, place your mouse over it so that the full address of the link appears then make sure that this link is coherent and points to a legitimate site); to be wary of requests that seem strange to you (no organization has the right to ask you for your credit card code, or the access codes and passwords of your personal spaces); to use an ad-blocking software, an anti-spam filter, or to activate the warning option against phishing present on most browsers; never click directly on the ad when you see a pop-up window open while browsing the internet, even if a close button appears within the pop-up window itself. Always use the cross (X) in the corner of the window.

    If you have serious doubts about a message you have received, there is a good chance that it is not legitimate. It is then recommended not to open attachments and not to respond. You should delete the message and then empty the trash of your mailbox.

    If this is your work email account, it is recommended to forward the suspicious email to your company’s IT department and information security officer for verification. Wait for their response before deciding whether or not to delete the email.

    Namely

    If you think you have been the victim of a scam or attempted phishing scam via spam, report it to signal-spam.fr. Your report will be assigned to authorities or professionals able to take action against this spam.

    Please note

    The scam prevention guide distributed by the “Assurance Banque Épargne Info Service” platform also provides you with advice to protect yourself against:

    fake administrative sites that offer to help you, for a fee, with certain common administrative procedures (requests for driving licenses, vehicle registration documents, birth certificates, etc.); fraudulent calls for donations launched by entities or websites not authorized to carry out this activity in France; fraudulent offers of credit or savings products with particularly attractive conditions; bank check scams; online payment fraud.

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

    MIL Translation OSI