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Category: housing

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Press release: PM call with crew of HMS Tamar: 25 October 2024

    Source: United Kingdom – Prime Minister’s Office 10 Downing Street

    The Prime Minister spoke to the crew of HMS Tamar this evening to thank them for their service and praise their role in securing Royal New Zealand Navy ship HMNZS Manawanui earlier this month.

    The Prime Minister spoke to the crew of HMS Tamar this evening to thank them for their service and praise their role in securing Royal New Zealand Navy ship HMNZS Manawanui earlier this month.

    The Prime Minister heard firsthand from members of the ship about their 650-mile high-speed transit from Fiji following the mayday call on October 5. They remained at the scene for almost two weeks providing recovery and pollution control efforts.

    This week, the ship has been bolstering security to Samoa for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, patrolling off the coast of the island while the summit is taking place.

    The Prime Minister paid tribute to the crew’s dedication and commitment so far away from home.

    He asked the ship’s company to pass on his sincere thanks to their families for their sacrifice at home too.

    Updates to this page

    Published 25 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Launch of Phase 2 Budget Consultation 2025/26

    Source: Scotland – City of Aberdeen

    Aberdeen City Council has today launched the second and final phase of its Budget 2025/26 consultation. 

    The second phase provides additional proposed savings options and invites people to have their say on these, and comment on how changes might affect them if taken forward.  

    Councillor Alex McLellan, Convener of the Finance and Resources Committee, said: “The next phase of the consultation continues to offer the public an opportunity to express their views on proposed savings being put forward by council officers ahead of the Council setting the 2025/26 budget.

    “It is important that people participate as this will give us a greater understanding of what services are important to individuals and their families, and the potential impact any change or removal of a service may have on them.”

    Anyone who has access to the internet at home or on their mobile phone can access the consultation here.

    For anyone who does not have internet access at home, digital assistance is available at local libraries including the Central Library, and at the Customer Service Centre, Marischal College during opening hours.

    A series of virtual and in-person events have been arranged to help encourage public engagement. During these events, the public will have the opportunity to discuss any of the proposed options with council staff.  There will also be targeted engagement with community groups and other stakeholders.

    Monday 4 November – 5.30pm-7pm – virtual
    Microsoft Teams 
    Advanced booking is required. To book, please click here

    Monday 11 November – 11am-12.30pm – in-person

    Town and County Hall, Town House (entry via Union Street)

    Advanced booking is required. To book, please click here

    Tuesday 12 November – 5.30pm-7pm – virtual
    Microsoft Teams 
    Advanced booking is required. To book, please click here

    Wednesday 6 November – 6pm-7.30pm – in-person
    Customer Service Centre, Marischal College, Broad Street 
    Advance booking is required. To book, please click here

    The Council will host a series of pop-up events to offer digital assistance to citizens who would like support to complete the consultation online.  These sessions will be held within Aberdeen City Vaccination Centre located inside the Bon Accord Shopping Centre, George Street.  

    Advanced booking is NOT required to attend the below pop-up sessions.  

    • Thursday 31 October – 2pm-4pm
    • Thursday 7 November – 2pm-4pm
    • Thursday 14 November – 2pm-4pm

    For anyone who needs information provided in a different format, such as accessible PDF, large print, easy to read, audio recording or braille, or have any accessibility requirements, please email equality_and_diversity@aberdeencity.gov.uk

    The consultation closes on Sunday, November 17 and the results will be presented to Full Council on Wednesday, December 11. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Days of the Polytechnic Competence Center at KRSU

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    From October 14 to 19, representatives of the Polytechnic University Competence Assessment and Development Center visited the Kyrgyz-Russian Slavic University.

    The days of the Polytechnic University Competence Center at KRSU became one of the first major projects in a series of planned events aimed at improving the quality of training of engineering personnel at the Kyrgyz-Russian Slavic University, said Lyudmila Pankova, Vice-Rector for Educational Activities at SPbPU.

    The program of events opened with an information session, at which the ambassadors of the Polytechnic University Competence Center told KRSU students about the opportunities of the Competence Centers project of the presidential platform Russia — the Country of Opportunities for career growth, as well as how the project will help to reveal their potential, and, of course, about the role of ambassadors.

    The Deputy Director General of the ANO “Russia – Country of Opportunities” Dmitry Guzhelya addressed the students with a welcoming speech. He wished the guys not to stop there and to more actively join the projects of the presidential platform.

    Fascinating surveys on supra-professional competencies made the children think about their strengths and opportunities for self-development. A humorous quiz, in which more than 350 people took part, became a bright conclusion to the information session.

    The days of the Polytechnic Competence Center at KRSU became an important stage in the development of the first and so far the only competence center outside the Russian Federation. We see and feel the positive and interested attitude of Russia, whose ambassadors were representatives of Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, — shared the head of the KRSU Competence Center Almaz Asankulov.

    The week in Bishkek was eventful and productive. Both sides organized many joint events to bring together university youth and develop soft skills – from a trip to the snowy mountains of the Ala-Archa National Park to a two-day Soft Skills board game tournament. There, KRSU students analyzed information and learned to make decisions, mastered innovation, emotional intelligence, following rules and focus on results.

    Our team prepared for such an important trip for a long time and carefully. We are very happy that KRSU students responded enthusiastically and actively participated in all the events of our program, the most memorable of which was, perhaps, the final of the Soft Skills tournament. The teams developed and defended very interesting and, at times, incredible ideas for startup projects, – said Elena Zima, Director of the SPbPU Competency Assessment and Development Center.

    The trip gave the ambassadors of the Polytechnic University Competence Center a lot of new and interesting things.

    We have become even more united, have significantly developed stress resistance and planning skills, have broadened our horizons, and have gained new knowledge about the culture and traditions of Kyrgyzstan. Most importantly, we have found new friends in lively and sincere communication, – shared Victoria Anikieva, a student of SPbPU and the head of the community of ambassadors of the Polytechnic University Competence Center.

    During the visit, the partners launched a professional development program called “Modern Approaches to Managing the Educational Process.” Elena Zima gave two lectures to KRSU teachers on the specifics of Russian Federation legislation in the field of higher education.

    On behalf of the KRSU management, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Polytechnic staff for fruitful cooperation and support in the development of our university as one of the best universities in Kyrgyzstan, said Elena Devyatova, Vice-Rector for Educational Activities at KRSU.

    A return visit of the KRSU Competence Center ambassadors to the Polytechnic University is ahead.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Task Force on Promoting the Development of Asset and Wealth Management holds first meeting (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Task Force on Promoting the Development of Asset and Wealth Management, chaired by the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, was established and convened its first meeting today (October 25).
     
         Hong Kong is an international asset and wealth management (WAM) centre. To drive market development, the Financial Secretary has announced in the 2024-25 Budget the establishment of the Task Force to discuss with the industry measures for further developing the WAM industry. The Task Force comprises nine non-official members from the WAM industry, government officials, and representatives of financial regulators and relevant bodies.
     
         The Chief Executive’s 2024 Policy Address has set out the need to further enhance Hong Kong’s status as an international WAM centre. In this respect, the Government will consult the industry on the proposal to add qualifying transactions eligible for tax concessions for funds, single-family offices, etc. At its first meeting, the Task Force had a focused discussion on the proposed enhancements.
     
         Mr Hui said, “As an international WAM centre, Hong Kong has long been a hub for global capital and family offices. As of end-2023, assets under management in Hong Kong reached over HK$31 trillion, and net fund inflows of close to HK$390 billion were registered, representing a year-on-year increase of over 3.4 times. Funding sourced from non-Hong Kong investors has consistently accounted for a high percentage, reflecting the confidence of international investors in Hong Kong’s WAM industry. Also, market research estimates that Hong Kong is home to about 2 700 single-family offices, with over half of them set up by ultra-high-net-worth-individuals with a wealth of US$50 million or above.
     
         “In view of the development trends in global finance, Hong Kong will continue to consolidate and enhance its competitive advantages and pursue continuous reforms. The Task Force brings together industry leaders and professionals, and I believe their valuable advice will help propel the long-term development of the WAM industry.”
     
         The membership of the Task Force is as follows, with the term of non-official members taking effect from October 25, 2024, for two years:
     
    Chairman
    ———–
    Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury
     
    Non-official members
    ————————
    Mr Kent Chen
    Mr Jiang Jingjing
    Ms Lian Shaodong
    Ms Luanne Lim
    Ms Amy Lo
    Ms Elisa Ng
    Mr Murray Steel
    Mr Peter Stein
    Mr Sun Yu
     
    Official members
    ——————-
    Permanent Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury (Financial Services)
    Commissioner of Inland Revenue
    Deputy Chief Executive, Hong Kong Monetary Authority
    Executive Director (Investment Products), Securities and Futures Commission
    Executive Director (Policy), Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Authority
    Head of Equities Product Development, Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited
    Executive Director, Financial Services Development Council   

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK Watch live: Lords debates the situation in Ukraine

    Source: United Kingdom UK House of Lords (video statements)

    Ukraine is at the heart of this Lords debate on Friday 25 October. Lord Coaker, Minister of State at the Ministry of Defence, will put forward the debate.

    Find out more and see the full list of members speaking https://www.parliament.uk/business/news/2024/october/ukraine-at-the-heart-of-lords-debate/

    Catch-up on House of Lords business:

    Watch live events: https://parliamentlive.tv/Lords
    Read the latest news: https://www.parliament.uk/lords/

    Stay up to date with the House of Lords on social media:

    • Twitter: https://twitter.com/UKHouseofLords
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/UKHouseofLords/
    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UKHouseofLords
    • Flickr: https://flickr.com/photos/ukhouseoflords/albums
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-house-of-lords
    • Threads: https://www.threads.net/@UKHouseOfLords

    #HouseOfLords #UKParliament #StateOpening

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h-5JOWhwAdU

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s passenger jet C919 makes outstanding achievements during new stage of operation

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    China’s passenger jet C919 makes outstanding achievements during new stage of operation

    China’s first domestically developed single-aisle passenger jet C919 has entered a new stage of multi-carrier operation. So far, 11 aircraft have been delivered, transporting more than 700,000 passenger trips, said its manufacturer on Friday.

    The commercial operation of the C919 planes has topped 13,000 flying hours, said He Dongfeng, chairman of Commercial Aircraft Corp of China, the manufacturer, during a speech at the opening ceremony of the second CATA Aviation Conference, organized by the China Air Transport Association, in Beijing.

    Meanwhile, China’s first home-developed regional passenger jet, the ARJ21, has seen its commercial operation exceed 500,000 flying hours.

    “This is an important milestone that marks further validation of the safety and reliability of the ARJ21 aircraft,” He said.

    The ARJ21 aircraft has been operating in domestic regions such as Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, Inner Mongolia autonomous region and Heilongjiang province, in addition to overseas markets such as Indonesia. A total of 148 aircraft have been delivered, serving 156 cities and carrying 17 million passenger trips.

    In another development, CR929, a long-haul wide-body aircraft that is under research and development by China and Russia, is in the process of preliminary design and selection of suppliers, COMAC said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Enjoy Halloween and Bonfire Night safely this autumn | Westminster City Council

    Source: City of Westminster

    We want everyone to be able to safely enjoy Halloween and Bonfire Night in Westminster this year which is why we have re-launched our Autumn Nights campaign.

    Halloween and Bonfire night, and the days running up to them, are traditionally some of the busiest nights of the year for our anti-social behaviour case officers, the Metropolitan Police, London Fire Brigade and other agencies.

    This is why we have launched our Autumn Nights campaign to make sure everyone has the information they need to enjoy it safely.

    We are working with our community safety partners, the Metropolitan Police and London Fire Brigade, to urge communities in Westminster to do their bit this Autumn.

    To keep our city safe, we ask you to take extra care this autumn and take note of the following advice:

    • fireworks must not be stored or used in communal areas or in your home. This is a condition for all Westminster City Council tenants and may be a condition of other tenancy or lease agreements
    • fireworks must not be set off within 15 metres of a road
    • please remove any personal items from communal areas and balconies which could be used to start fires by others
    • if you are a Westminster City Council tenant, please do not have bonfires anywhere, either in your home or on the estate
    • it is illegal to let fireworks off in the street or a public place
    • selling fireworks to anyone under the age of 18 years is illegal. Anyone aged under 18 may not possess a firework in a public place

    This Autumn Nights season, help us to keep your neighbourhood safe by reporting any incidents.

    If you’re a Westminster City Council tenant you can report anti-social behaviour in housing to us in confidence 24/7 via your MyWestminsterHousing online account or contact us on 0800 358 3783 or email [email protected]

    To report misuse of fireworks, call the police on the non-emergency number 101. In an emergency, or if you are in immediate danger, always call 999.

    All residents can report crime anonymously to Crimestoppers by phoning 0800 555 111.

    Read more about fireworks safety advice from the London Fire Brigade.

    Thank you for your help and enjoy Halloween and Bonfire Night safely.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: You are cordially invited to…save the date for the Stoke-on-Trent Celebration Weekend

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    SOTDay launch shot

    Published: Friday, 25th October 2024

    Stoke-on-Trent City Council is inviting residents, businesses and organisations across the city and beyond to ‘save the date’ for the Stoke-on-Trent celebration weekend.

    Stoke-on-Trent City Council is inviting residents, businesses and organisations across the city and beyond to ‘save the date’ for the Stoke-on-Trent celebration weekend.
    On Thursday 5 June 2025, the city will burst into celebration following 100 years of city status. The day will be set in the calendar as the very first Stoke-on-Trent Day.
     

    When King George V declared Stoke-on-Trent a city on 5 June 1925, it was a move that made Stoke-on-Trent a global name. Honouring the rich history, vibrant culture and unique identity, for three days in June the city council is calling on everyone with links to the city, at home and away, to celebrate the city built on clay and coal. 
     

    Stoke-on-Trent Day will be a yearly celebration on 5 June that celebrates the history, culture, the built and natural environment and the communities that make the city. It’s also about looking forward. The city is incredibly proud of its heritage – but it’s not all in the past:

    • Stoke-on-Trent is now a World Craft City
    • Over 85 parks and green spaces, which are home to a variety of animals
    • A vibrant arts scene with nine Not-for-Profit organisations working in the city
    • Pottery manufacturers have a strong presence
    • Brilliant museums
    • There are lots of local artisans based in the city
    • Traditional markets, with a host of traders
    • Local festivals like the British Ceramics Biennial and Stoke on Clay celebrate local arts and ceramics
    • Active heritage restoration
    • Exciting food and drink scene, including Appetite, Feasted and Titanic
    • Promising opportunities for business development
    • Home to over 500,000 trees

    Everyone with links to Stoke-on-Trent is invited to the party. Over the Celebration weekend – Saturday 7 June and Sunday 8 June – Stoke-on-Trent City Council will be hosting events for all to enjoy, express togetherness and show pride in their city.
     

    For 2025, the Council is asking everyone to ‘save the date’ of Saturday 7 June and to get involved in a mass-participation carnival feel celebration – from resident associations, sports clubs, schools, colleges and the university to businesses, charities and youth groups and performing arts groups – you are all on the guest list! 

    Leader of the city council, councillor Jane Ashworth, said: “Whether you are born and bred in one of the six towns, moved away, or recently made Stoke-on-Trent your home, you are a ‘Stokie’ to us. We want everyone to celebrate this small city, with a big heart.
    “From street parties to cleaning up the city, I am calling on every resident to fly the flag of this great city.”

    Lisa Capper MBE, CEO & Principal at Stoke on Trent College said: “Stoke on Trent College is thrilled to be part of the centenary celebrations for Stoke-on-Trent, leading up to next June. We are delighted to be supporting the campaign from Stoke-on-Trent City Council, which captures the togetherness which makes this city so special. As part of SOT100, we are looking forward to having our 100 Years of Skills in Hanley Park next May as well as other celebrations which will enable learners to join in the celebrations of the city’s heritage.”

    Do you have an event planned for 2025? Or are you inspired to get your friends, family and neighbours together and get creative? We want to know!

    Visit: www.sot100.org.uk to find out what’s happening and when, and how you can plan your own events.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Major new crackdown on insurance fraud

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    A new insurance fraud charter was announced at the latest Joint Fraud Taskforce meeting.

    Insurance companies have united to step up efforts to crack down on fraudsters seeking to manipulate the UK insurance market with bogus claims and duping innocent people into buying fake insurance policies.  

    In 2023 alone, 84,400 fraudulent claims worth £1.1 billion were detected by the ABI, a 16% increase in the number of detected claims compared to the previous year. 

    Crash for cash scams are becoming a significant issue. This sees fraudsters recklessly orchestrate accidents to put forward an insurance claim, putting innocent lives at risk. Fraudsters may also make claims for accidents that never happened.  

    The Insurance Fraud Bureau is currently investigating over 6,000 suspected fraudulent motor insurance claims, which could be linked to crash for cash scams. In total, this is estimated to be worth over £70 million in potential fraud.

    The new voluntary charter is designed to identify loopholes in the insurance market, enhance collaboration and criminal justice outcomes, better understand the scale of the problem and improve victim support.  

    Pledges include:

    • the National Crime Agency’s National Assessment Centre carrying out a review into the role of professional enablers in the insurance sector – where someone provides false evidence to support a bogus insurance claim
    • identifying policies being exploited by “illegal insurance intermediaries” – someone pretending to be a broker or selling completely fake insurance to customers.
    • strengthening data security measures to stop insurance fraudsters using customer details to target people 
    • reviewing the tactics and websites being used by fraudsters to promote bogus insurance offers – this includes looking at the vulnerable victims’ notifications process, which has proven successful in the banking sector, to better identify and support victims of insurance fraud 

    Lord David Hanson, Minister of State at the Home Office with Responsibility for Fraud said: 

    Fraud is an appalling crime, and we are determined to crackdown on these callous criminals.

    Not only do honest customers face higher insurance premiums but these fraudsters do not care if people are harmed in the pursuit of profit.  

    This charter is an important step, and we will continue to work with industry and law enforcement to better protect the public from fraud.”  

    Hannah Gurga, ABI Director General, said:  

    Insurance fraud remains an ongoing threat that corrodes trust in society and undermines our economic prosperity.  

    Tackling insurance fraud is an industry priority, and requires a collaborative approach between private and public sector.  

    We’re delighted to have agreed the Insurance Sector Fraud Charter with the Home Office, boosting the industry’s resilience and ability to fight fraud.  

    We look forward to continuing to work with the Home Office and other industry signatories to implement the charter commitments.

    Temporary Assistant Commissioner Nik Adams, from the City of London Police, said:

    As the national lead force for fraud, we welcome the launch of this charter. Insurance fraud is not a victimless crime.

    It increases the cost of premiums for honest customers, while fraudsters who sell fake car insurance or deliberately cause road traffic collisions to claim compensation put motorists at risk.

    The Insurance Fraud Enforcement Department, a partnership between law enforcement and industry, is at the forefront of tackling this crime.

    This charter is another step forward in establishing a whole system approach to combatting fraud, as it is a commitment from organisations across the insurance sector to join law enforcement in tackling key threats, enhancing criminal justice outcomes and improving victim support.

    The charter covers the vast majority of the insurance sector ranging from general insurance firms to underwriters and has the backing of the British Insurance Brokers’ Association, London & International Insurance Brokers’ Association, Lloyd’s of London, Lloyd’s Market Association and the International Underwriting Association, alongside ABI. 

    Nobody is immune from fraud. According to the latest ONS Crime Survey Statistics, fraud is most common crime in England and Wales and 1 in 16 adults experienced fraud in the twelve months to the end of June 2024.  

    This is the first Joint Fraud Taskforce meeting of 2024.

    The taskforce meetings bring together government departments, law enforcement, regulators, private sector and victim groups to strengthen the response to fighting fraud and better protect the public.

    Updates to this page

    Published 25 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: OEUK news New skills passport tool being delivered to support an integrated skills landscape 17 October 2024

    Source: Offshore Energy UK

    Headline: OEUK news

    New skills passport tool being delivered to support an integrated skills landscape

    17 October 2024

    Joint RenewableUK and OEUK media release – Thursday 17th October 2024

    A new scheme to help workers across the UK’s energy mix, including oil and gas, to find new roles in offshore wind will be launched in January by RenewableUK and Offshore Energies UK (OEUK), supported by the UK and Scottish Governments.

    The Energy Skills Passport enables workers and employers to easily identify which qualifications and training standards, such as health and safety, are needed for specific roles in offshore wind. As part of the Energy Skills Passport, an interactive tool will provide clarity on which qualifications are mutually recognised across the sector to avoid any duplication of training courses, as well as mapping out potential career pathways. It will be managed jointly by OEUK and RenewableUK and will be available to a limited number of testers later this year before it is rolled out in full in the new year. The initial version focuses on the transition to offshore wind and future versions will include other parts of the energy sector.

    The UK’s oil and gas sector supports over 200,000 jobs and the UK’s offshore wind industry already employs 32,000 people – that number is expected to rise to over 100,000 by 2030. Research commissioned by OEUK shows that 90% per cent of oil and gas industry workers have skills which can be transferred to future offshore jobs in renewable energy. Roles which may be suitable for workers to transfer into in offshore wind include maintenance technician, commissioning technician, high-voltage senior authorised person and troubleshooting technician.

    RenewableUK’s Executive Director of Offshore Wind Jane Cooper said:

    “The upsurge in offshore wind jobs over the course of this decade and beyond creates excellent opportunities for highly-skilled oil and gas workers to bring their valuable experience to the clean energy sector. We’re working closely with our colleagues at Offshore Energies UK, and the UK and Scottish Governments, to make that transition as smooth as possible across all parts of the energy industry. The Energy Skills Passport is a great example of what we can achieve together and we’ll continue to look for other potential areas of work that can further support the transition of workers between sectors.”

    Offshore Energies UK’s Director of Supply Chain & People, Katy Heidenreich said:

    “Collaboration is key to unlocking the full potential of the UK’s offshore energy sector so we are proud to be driving this initiative with RenewableUK. This industry and its people have proven excellence and a broad range of transferable skills from engineering and construction to legal and commercial expertise. This passport can help them succeed right across our diverse energy mix. This is one way the UK can back its workforce to build a homegrown energy transition that leaves no-one behind. It’s part of the toolkit this industry is assembling to partner with government to solve the challenges and seize the opportunities of our energy future.”

    The Co-Chair of the Offshore Wind Industry Council Richard Sandford said:

    “The Energy Skills Passport is a crucial step forward for workers to embrace opportunities in the offshore wind industry. It simplifies movement between essential offshore energy sectors, enabling workers to apply their knowledge to the energy transition. The milestone highlights effective collaboration between OEUK and RenewableUK, supported by the UK and Scottish Governments.”

    (ends)

    Notes

    For further information, contact

    1. RenewableUK’s members are building our future energy system, powered by clean electricity. We bring them together to deliver that future faster; a future which is better for industry, billpayers, and the environment. We support over 490 member companies to ensure increasing amounts of renewable electricity are deployed across the UK and to access export markets all over the world. Our members are business leaders, technology innovators, and expert thinkers from right across industry. RenewableUK’s events programme is available here.
    2. Offshore Energies UK is the leading trade body for the UK’s offshore energies industry. Its membership includes over 400 organisations with an interest in offshore oil, gas, carbon capture and storage, hydrogen, and offshore wind. Working together with its members, it is a driving force supporting the UK in ensuring security of energy supply while helping to meet its net zero ambitions.

    Share this article

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Security: California man pleads guilty to sex trafficking and illegal firearms possession

    Source: United States Department of Justice (Human Trafficking)

    Defendant chased victim, firing shots, as she tried to escape from him on Aurora Avenue

    Seattle – A California man pleaded guilty today to two federal felonies related to his sex trafficking of adult female victims, announced U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. Winston Cornell Burt aka “Dice Capone,” 32 of Hemet, California, was arrested November 6, 2022, after he allegedly brutally assaulted a 20-year-old woman and engaged in a rolling gun battle as she fled in a van driven by a man who picked her up from the roadway. Burt pleaded guilty to Sex Trafficking through Force, Fraud, and Coercion and Unlawful Possession of Firearms. Burt is scheduled for sentencing by U.S. District Judge John H. Chun on February 3, 2025.

    According to records filed in the case, Burt self-identifies as a “pimp” who led a sex trafficking enterprise through California, Arizona, and Washington. The young women in the case were required to provide all the money they earned in prostitution to Burt. Three women had his name tattooed on their faces – an apparent sign of “ownership.”

    On November 2, 2022, Burt assaulted the 20-year-old victim in this case by kicking her, punching her, and pistol whipping her after she indicated she wanted to stop working for Burt. The assault occurred at an Airbnb in south Seattle. Three days later, on November 5, 2022, Burt assaulted the victim again and forced her to strip to her underwear. The victim tried to escape from the rental home by jumping out a third story window. The defendant and two women working for him forced her into a car and drove towards a motel on north Aurora Avenue. Burt was armed with a gun, but the victim was able to get out of the car and ran into traffic on Aurora wearing only her underwear. Burt and his female assistants tried to force the victim back into their car, but the victim stayed in the middle of the roadway until finally picked up by a driver who saw her in distress.

    Even after the victim was driven away in a van, Burt gave chase on Aurora Avenue and fired shots at the van with the victim inside. The driver was eventually able to evade Burt and called the Washington State Patrol for assistance.

    Ultimately law enforcement responded to the scene and got the victim to Harborview Medical Center for treatment.

    Burt was arrested on November 6, 2022, as he was attempting to leave the Airbnb in south Seattle.

    As part of the plea agreement, Burt also agrees to plead guilty to charges in King County Superior Court: three counts of Assault 2; Drive-by Shooting; Unlawful Imprisonment; and Assault-3

    The plea agreement calls for the forfeiture of both firearms and more than $72,000 in cash.

    Sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion is punishable by a mandatory minimum 15 years in prison and up to life in prison and illegal possession of a firearm is punishable by ten years in prison. Both the prosecution and defense have agreed to recommend 15 years in prison to run concurrent with any sentence imposed in state court.  

    The case was investigated by the Seattle Police Department and the FBI with assistance from the Washington State Patrol (WSP).

    Senior Deputy King County Prosecutor Alexandra Voorhees worked closely with the FBI, Seattle Police Department and Assistant United States Attorney Kate Crisham on this case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The long culinary history of pumpkins – from ancient Mexican soups to modern spiced lattes

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Serin Quinn, PhD Candidate, Department of History, University of Warwick

    Carving the Pumpkin by Franck Antoine Bail (1910). Bonhams

    October heralds the beginning of pumpkin season. Over the course of the month, they will be used for a variety of non-culinary purposes. In Belgium, they are hollowed out for boat races, and in Ludwigsburg, Germany, thousands of multi-coloured pumpkins are used to make seasonal sculpture parks. At the end of the month, they will be carved up with a ghoulish grin to celebrate Halloween, a tradition that is becoming increasingly popular across the globe.

    Despite being harvested until December, for many, Halloween will mark the end of pumpkin season with the decorations unceremoniously binned. Studies show that just over half of the pumpkins bought in the UK each year (18,000 tonnes of them) go to waste uneaten. Many people don’t even realise that pumpkins are edible.

    But it hasn’t always been this way: pumpkin carving is actually a fairly recent tradition, practiced in the US since around the 1890s. Before becoming the symbol of Halloween, pumpkins had a very long history as a foodstuff.

    Like tomatoes, maize and potatoes, the pumpkin is indigenous to the Americas, with the earliest evidence of pumpkin consumption dating as far back as 8,000BC in Oaxaca, Mexico.

    Pumpkins have come a long way since then, as Indigenous American communities carefully adapted the wild pumpkin into successively bigger and better-tasting varieties. These weren’t all the bright orange we’re familiar with: white, green and yellow varieties were also common, mixed in with squashes (a genetically identical relation).

    Still Life with Pumpkins by Jan Anton van der Baren (1657).
    Kunsthistorisches Museum

    In pre-colonial America, there were a host of different ways to prepare the vegetable, as pumpkin historian Cindy Ott explains. She wrote that Indigenous communities ate pumpkins in soups, roasted them on embers, made them into sauces and baked them into a “bread”.

    Pumpkins and squash were commonly grown and eaten with maize and beans; a combination sometimes called the “three sisters”.

    The rise of the ‘pompion’

    The pumpkin only came to Europe in the 1500s, following the invasion of the Americas. This new vegetable wasn’t as much of a surprise to Europeans as we might expect: gourds, cucumbers and melons are from the same family as pumpkins, Curcubitaceae, and the plants all look very similar, with trailing vines and large golden flowers.

    Farmer with pumpkins by Ilya Ivanovich Mashkov (1930).
    WikiArt

    In European languages, the new plant was given the name of these more familiar foods, so that in English and French it became the pompion (another name for melons), in Italian the zucca and in German the kürbis (both names for gourds).

    All these overlapping names caused some confusion. In 1640, botanist John Parkinson wrote of “gourds or millions, or pompions, or whatsoever else you please to call them”.

    The recipes that pumpkins are best known for in today’s Anglo-American cuisine come from this era of food history. “Pumpion” pies started to appear in English recipe books in the 1660s, but they weren’t much like today’s versions.

    An early printed recipe was written by Hannah Woolley, an English writer who published books on household management, in 1672. It instructs the reader to fry egg-coated slices, mix these with raisins, sugar and fortified wine then place the mixture in a pie dish on top of apples. A little different maybe, but it doesn’t sound too bad.

    The apple association stayed strong in England. Another method, recorded in 1735, was to scoop out the pulp, mix it with chopped apples and sugar, bake this in the hollowed pumpkin, then eat it spread on bread. The author was careful to note that this meal was “too strong for persons of weak stomachs, and only proper for country people who use much exercise” – so be careful if you try this at home.



    Read more:
    A delicious history of the apple – from the Tian Sian mountains to supermarket shelves

    The pie recipes followed a longer tradition of sweet-and-savoury pies which were popular in England at the time. This is also where we get the typical “pumpkin spice” from. These pies were made with artichokes, sweet and ordinary potatoes, and even earlier with parsnips, skirrets and eryngoes (once popular root vegetables). They were mixed with the go-to expensive spices of the day: cinnamon, nutmeg, mace, cloves, ginger and sugar. Maybe we should be calling it the “skirret spice latte”.

    As Europeans steadily colonised America over the 17th century, they brought with them their familiar recipes, including spiced pies. Here, in the home of pumpkins, they had an abundance to make them from.

    The steady rise of Halloween in the globalised age suggests our current waste issue will get worse before it gets better. Reviving the egg-apple-pumpkin pie might not be the solution, but there are plenty of other ways we can use these versatile vegetables. Remembering that pumpkins had millennia of history as a food before they were a decoration is one step on the way.


    Looking for something good? Cut through the noise with a carefully curated selection of the latest releases, live events and exhibitions, straight to your inbox every fortnight, on Fridays. Sign up here.

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

    – ref. The long culinary history of pumpkins – from ancient Mexican soups to modern spiced lattes – https://theconversation.com/the-long-culinary-history-of-pumpkins-from-ancient-mexican-soups-to-modern-spiced-lattes-240492

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Mary Queen of Scots and the clandestine tricks of the women who kept her secrets

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Jade Scott, Affiliate in History , University of Glasgow

    Mary, Queen of Scots spent almost 20 years in captivity. She was held in various locations across Britain from 1568 until her execution on February 8 1587. As I explain in my new book, Captive Queen: The Decrypted History of Mary, Queen of Scots, during this period she relied upon letters to maintain her support back in Scotland, encourage international allies to join her cause and foster allegiances in England.

    Mary was aware that her letters were routinely read by her jailers and passed on to be scrutinised by Elizabeth I’s closest advisers, notably William Cecil. At times, she was forced to rely on clandestine techniques, including writing in invisible ink. She wrote that “although such artifices be very hazardous and vulgar, they will serve me in extreme necessity”.

    Less technical means of conveying correspondence covertly also proved useful. Letters were regularly passed surreptitiously in clothing. They could be slipped under the sleeves of ladies’ gowns, sewn into doublets, or even packed into the heel of a shoe.

    In 1572, Mary’s longest-serving custodian, the earl of Shrewsbury, George Talbot, reported that he had discovered that Mary was having letters left hidden under stones in the gardens. These would be collected later by servants and carried out of the property, to avoid unwanted attention.

    Mary also used complex ciphers to disguise the contents of her correspondence, especially when she wished to discuss plots designed to set her free. Hundreds of her coded letters survive in different forms (as copies, translations, and originals), many of them from supporters who were directly involved in schemes including the Babington plot of 1586, which aimed to assassinate Elizabeth I and replace her with Mary.

    Mary, Queen of Scots at Fotheringhay by John Duncan (1929).
    University of St Andrews, CC BY-SA

    The women who carried Mary’s secrets

    The role of women in Mary’s coded correspondence is often overlooked. Yet she relied upon her female supporters to ensure that covert networks were maintained during her captivity.

    The countess of Northumberland, Lady Anne Percy, was one of the noblewomen at the heart of a transcontinental network of Catholic exiles who went to great efforts to preserve clandestine channels of communication between themselves and Mary.

    In August 1571, William Maitland of Lethington, Mary’s principal secretary in Scotland, wrote to her. He explained that he had shared a new cipher so that Lady Percy could write to Mary secretly. Several years later, Mary confirmed that she was still writing in code to Lady Percy and receiving such letters in return.

    Mary Queen of Scots Bidding Farewell to France by William Powell Frith (1851).
    National Trust, Newton House, Dinefwr Park and Castle

    Similarly, Mary communicated with Scottish noblewomen using ciphers. Lady Livingston, Agnes Fleming, journeyed with Mary into England in late 1568 and remained by her side in captivity until 1572, when she returned to Scotland. We know that she communicated with Mary using coded letters because in 1573 Lethington warned her that she must stop using their usual cipher.

    He explained that the letter bearer had been arrested and so their cipher was likely “known to their adversaries”. Lady Livingston remained a loyal supporter of Mary after she returned to Scotland. She was even briefly imprisoned in Dalkeith by the regent of Scotland, James Morton, for sharing news and intelligence via secret messages.



    Read more:
    Letters and embroidery allowed medieval women to express their ‘forbidden’ emotions

    Lady Ferniehirst, Jean Scott, also composed coded correspondence to navigate the surveillance and scrutiny that the Scottish queen was subject to in England. Her husband, Sir Thomas Kerr of Ferniehirst, was exiled in 1573 following his attempts to hold Edinburgh Castle on Mary’s behalf. This meant that during the 1580s, Lady Ferniehirst was crucial to the survival of a network of Scottish nobles who continued to agitate for Mary’s restoration.

    She regularly acted as an intermediary between Mary and James VI, allowing at least some of their communication to avoid English detection. Several of Lady Ferniehirst’s own coded letters to Mary survive, and many were intercepted and decoded by contemporary agents seeking evidence of Mary’s plotting.

    In 1578, Mary requested that Lady Ferniehirst’s 13-year-old daughter be allowed to join her household in England. Aware of the clandestine correspondence between the two women, this request was denied by Elizabeth I. She suspected that Lady Ferniehirst’s daughter would ensure even more coded letters managed to make their way from Mary to her supporters.

    The correspondence of Mary’s female supporters reveals early modern women’s skilful navigation of political crisis. Illuminating the examples of women like Lady Percy, Lady Livingston and Lady Ferniehirst challenges gendered assumptions that have led to women being underestimated or dismissed throughout history.


    Looking for something good? Cut through the noise with a carefully curated selection of the latest releases, live events and exhibitions, straight to your inbox every fortnight, on Fridays. Sign up here.

    Jade Scott previously received funding from Arts and Humanities Research Council UK (AHRC).

    – ref. Mary Queen of Scots and the clandestine tricks of the women who kept her secrets – https://theconversation.com/mary-queen-of-scots-and-the-clandestine-tricks-of-the-women-who-kept-her-secrets-241444

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Moo Deng: the celebrated hippo’s real home has disappeared – will the world restore it?

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Huanyuan Zhang-Zheng, College Lecturer at Worcester College, and Postdoctoral Researcher at School of Geography and the Environment, University of Oxford

    Moo Deng lives with her mother and siblings in Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chon Buri, Thailand. I Viewfinder/Shutterstock

    The playful and pudgy mammal that went viral from its Thai zoo enclosure has a sad story to tell about her fellows hippos.

    Moo Deng is the two-month-old pygmy hippo who flicks her ears in joy and likes splashing in water. She lives the life of a superstar at Khao Kheow Open Zoo, where huge crowds have massed – but the chances of spotting her relatives in the wild are slim.

    Pygmy hippos (Choeropsis liberiensis) are endangered and estimated to number fewer than 2,500. Their decline has been drastic: a long-term survey in a national park in Ivory Coast found 12,000 pygmy hippos in 1982; 5,000 in 1997 and 2,000 in 2011. Today, these hippos are scarce across their native west Africa.

    Perhaps it’s not surprising that pygmy hippos feel most comfortable deep in the forest. Early European explorers to Liberia wrote in their diaries that this hippo chooses to forage at night and conceal itself in the water or in dense vegetation during the day.

    So secretive is this species that 19th-century explorers observed:

    if someone walks across one of their paths or tunnels (used to navigate through thick vegetation), they will abandon that route for a while.

    Sensitive souls

    Widespread deforestation and constant disturbance have made it difficult for pygmy hippos to survive, requiring as they do a combination of dense forests and swamps which already restricted them to a small area. West African forests have lost over 80% of their original area, which confines wild pygmy hippos to small spots in Gola National Forest (Sierra Leone) and Sapo National Park (Liberia).

    The world once had several pygmy hippo species. Only one remains, in West Africa.
    IUCN, CC BY-SA

    With their forests rapidly disappearing, there simply isn’t enough space for pygmy hippos to find food, thrive and reproduce. A survey in the Gola rainforest and its surroundings revealed that many were hiding on former cropland outside the protected area. Re – Yes the survey includes area outside protected forests area

    Cocoa production is probably the biggest cause of forest loss, then gold mining and unsustainable logging. These activities now encroach on forest reserves and other supposedly protected areas.

    Previous forest conservation efforts have failed. Conservationists argue for a system to financially reward farmers and authorise local forestry communities to safeguard the forests and sustainably manage what remains, as opposed to a top-down model of state management and enforcement.

    A world treasure

    West Africa’s forest loss is particularly heartbreaking as research shows that a remaining patch may be the most productive on Earth, surpassing even the Amazon rainforest.

    Particularly productive forests harness more of the sun’s energy and turn it into lots of palatable herbs and juicy fruits – more food to support animals like pygmy hippos, and so foster rich biodiversity.

    Before extensive fieldwork beginning in 2016, researchers had underestimated the value of west African forests, particularly their capacity to store carbon and thereby offset global warming. This oversight was partly the result of these forests being hidden by clouds, which makes satellite observation difficult, and their relative neglect by western researchers compared with other ecosystems elsewhere.

    It’s not just Moo Deng’s wider family that is at risk. West African forests are home to more than 900 bird species and nearly 400 mammals – more than a quarter of all mammal species in Africa. Their future is highly threatened by extensive deforestation.

    Underestimating the value of west African forests has kept them off the priority list for global forest restoration. It’s sadly not surprising that deforestation continues. In 2022 alone Ghana lost 44,500 acres of forest (twice the size of Manchester), close to a 70% increase from 2021.

    Each tropical forest contributes irreplaceable biodiversity. From the elusive mammals of west Africa to the vibrant birds of south-east Asia, these ecosystems are equally important. Comprehensive plans are needed to restore them which involve empowering local communities to manage their long-term health.

    A global initiative to designate 30% of Earth’s land and ocean as protected by 2030 (known as 30×30) should not conserve a vast area in one or two places, ignoring Earth’s other biodiversity hotspots. The lesson of Moo Deng’s disappearing home should be to value ecosystems equally – and plan their preservation with equal care.


    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get our award-winning weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 40,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    Huanyuan Zhang-Zheng receives funding from the US Department of Energy.

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

    – ref. Moo Deng: the celebrated hippo’s real home has disappeared – will the world restore it? – https://theconversation.com/moo-deng-the-celebrated-hippos-real-home-has-disappeared-will-the-world-restore-it-241815

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Remember to put clocks back this weekend

    Source: Northern Ireland Direct

    Date published:

    Make sure you remember to put your clocks back this weekend. British Summer Time ends on Sunday 27 October. You don’t want to miss that extra hour in bed.

    Reset clocks on Saturday night

    Think about resetting any household clocks, watches and time-based equipment on Saturday night that don’t automatically change. You don’t want to spend Sunday wondering why you’re early and everyone else is late.

    The equipment you may need to reset includes:

    • clocks (especially alarm clocks)
    • central heating and hot water timers
    • your mobile phone and computer (if they don’t automatically update)

    Greenwich Mean Time

    British Summer Time starts on the last Sunday in March and ends on the last Sunday in October.

    This means that:

    • in autumn the clocks go back – at 2.00 am British Summer Time moves to 1.00 am Greenwich Mean Time
    • in spring the clocks go forward – at 1.00 am Greenwich Mean Time moves to 2.00 am British Summer Time

    More useful links

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: What Derby City Council would like to see in the Government’s Autumn budget statement

    Source: City of Derby

    Following weeks of speculation, the Government will outline their actual spending plans for the first time next week in the Autumn budget statement.  Councils across the country, including Derby City Council, will be watching with interest to see what, if any, action will be taken to address the severe financial challenges faced by local government sector.

    In Derby, the Council’s current budget is its most challenging yet, with the Council reporting a predicted £9.6 million overspend on its revenue budget – which funds most of its services outside housing, education, and capital projects – at the end of the first quarter of 2024/25.

    Demand and costs have continued to rise at a much higher rate than forecast, mainly for services affecting the city’s most vulnerable citizens such as social care and homelessness. This is not unique to Derby and is affecting councils across the country. The Council has been lobbying the Government for changes to the way it is funded, together with local government colleagues nationally.

    Derby City Council’s Quarter 2 financial update will be presented to Cabinet in November, but over the medium term the Council faces the challenge of closing a significant budget gap which was estimated to be £13.9 million for 2025/26 before any of the new pressures on services emerged this year. The Council’s Medium Term Financial Strategy, which is also being considered by Council Cabinet in November, will provide further details on this position.

    As a result, the Council is already in the process of planning a balanced budget for 2025/26, which is a legal requirement, ready to present it to Councillors in December before it goes out to consultation. Although the Council won’t know for certain how much money it will receive from the Government until around the same time, it is hoped the Autumn statement on 30 October will provide some additional financial support.

    In simple terms, the Government currently funds Councils through one-year grant settlements, supplemented by additional grants which can only be used for specific purposes.  Shortfalls therefore have to be met from Council Tax and Business Rates, and as Government funding has significantly declined the Council has become more reliant on these local taxes.

    While the new Government has indicated that it will move towards multi-year settlements that make it easier to plan for the mid-term, it is not known when this will happen.

    Councillor Kathy Kozlowski, Cabinet Member for Governance and Finance, said:

    We have to be realistic. We are not expecting the Government to announce multi-year grant funding settlements next week. However there are some small changes they could announce which we’ve lobbied for, and would be ‘quick wins’ for local government. They would certainly make a difference to us in Derby.

    A shortage of affordable accommodation means that homeless families are having to stay in temporary accommodation for longer. The amount of Housing Benefit we can claim back from the Government for this is capped, and if this cap was lifted we would be £4 million better off. A review of the right to buy legislation would allow Councils to maintain their levels of social housing.

    Costs in the social care market are spiralling, and introducing caps on fees that Councils pay for care would help ease the pressure on social care.

    A commitment to the much-awaited funding reforms for local government would also see a redistribution of funding to those areas that need it the most. Continuation of a lot of temporary funding, including funding that supports social care services and support to struggling families through the Household Support Fund, would mean that we could continue to support our most vulnerable residents.

    We would welcome any additional funding that the new Government can provide, however we are aware that there is no easy solution to the financial challenges that lie ahead, especially when we have no control over rising costs and demand. Any new burdens on local government need to be adequately funded.

    Let me be clear, we will have to make some very difficult decisions over the next few months if we are to fulfil our legal obligation of setting a balanced budget. Many councils have already had to make a Section 114 declaration or ask for additional Government support. This is not a route we want to take, as it would limit what we could do for Derby, but we accept that we may have to do less but in a safe and managed way.

    It is usually councils that are left to pick up the pieces when people find themselves in crisis. Yet demand continues to rise and we don’t have the funds to meet it. However we are acutely aware that we are not the only public service lobbying for more help.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs detects smuggling case involving ocean-going vessel and electronic goods worth about $100 million (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Hong Kong Customs on October 15 detected a suspected case of using an ocean-going vessel to smuggle goods to Taichung at the Kwai Chung Container Terminals. A large batch of suspected smuggled electronic goods with an estimated market value of about $100 million was seized.

         Through intelligence analysis and risk assessment, Customs discovered that criminals intended to use ocean-going vessels to smuggle goods and thus formulated strategies to combat related activities.

         On October 15, Customs officers identified an ocean-going vessel preparing to depart from Hong Kong for Taichung for inspection and seized a large batch of suspected smuggled goods, including computers, household gadgets, smart watches, integrated circuits and circuit boards inside a container which was declared as containing electronic accessories aboard the vessel.

         An investigation is ongoing. The likelihood of arrests is not ruled out.

         Customs is the primary agency responsible for tackling smuggling activities and has long been combating various smuggling activities on all fronts. Customs will keep up its enforcement action and continue to resolutely combat sea smuggling activities through proactive risk management and intelligence-based enforcement strategies, and carry out targeted anti-smuggling operations at suitable times to crack down on related crimes.

         Smuggling is a serious offence. Under the Import and Export Ordinance, any person found guilty of importing or exporting unmanifested cargo is liable to a maximum fine of $2 million and imprisonment for seven years upon conviction.

         Members of the public may report any suspected smuggling activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).   

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Dolly Parton Accepts State Department and Recording Academy’s 2024 Peace Through Music Award

    Source: United States of America – Department of State (video statements)

    We are proud to honor icon, philanthropist and 10-time @RecordingAcademy GRAMMY winner @DollyParton with the 2024 PEACE Through Music Award. Her timeless music and philanthropic efforts continue to bridge divides and promote peace worldwide, showcasing the positive power of music. #DollyParton #MusicDiplomacy

    ———-
    Under the leadership of the President and Secretary of State, the U.S. Department of State leads America’s foreign policy through diplomacy, advocacy, and assistance by advancing the interests of the American people, their safety and economic prosperity. On behalf of the American people we promote and demonstrate democratic values and advance a free, peaceful, and prosperous world.

    The Secretary of State, appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate, is the President’s chief foreign affairs adviser. The Secretary carries out the President’s foreign policies through the State Department, which includes the Foreign Service, Civil Service and U.S. Agency for International Development.

    Get updates from the U.S. Department of State at www.state.gov and on social media!
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/statedept
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/StateDept
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/statedept
    Flickr: https://flickr.com/photos/statephotos/

    Subscribe to the State Department Blog: https://www.state.gov/blogs
    Watch on-demand State Department videos: https://video.state.gov/
    Subscribe to The Week at State e-newsletter: http://ow.ly/diiN30ro7Cw

    State Department website: https://www.state.gov/
    Careers website: https://careers.state.gov/
    White House website: https://www.whitehouse.gov/
    Terms of Use: https://state.gov/tou

    #StateDepartment #DepartmentofState #Diplomacy

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

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Royal Air Force delivers vital food and medical supplies to Lebanese Armed Forces

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The UK has successfully delivered more than 12,500 ration packs and 79 battlefield medical kits to the Lebanese Armed Forces.

    The RAF plane being unloaded in Beirut

    • More than 12,500 ration packs and 79 medical kits have been delivered to the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) in Beirut today by the RAF.
    • The LAF are part of the security and stability solution for Lebanon and the wider region, as the sole legitimate military force of the Lebanese state.
    • Delivery comes amid the UK’s continued calls for an immediate ceasefire in Lebanon and Gaza.

    The UK has successfully delivered more than 12,500 ration packs and 79 battlefield medical kits to the Lebanese Armed Forces. This package of medical supplies and provisions, delivered by the RAF, is funded by the UK’s Integrated Security Fund and will help support the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF).

    The Lebanese Armed Forces are essential to the future security and stability of Lebanon and the wider region as the only legitimate military force of the Lebanese state.

    For more than a decade, the UK has given critical support to the LAF as a trusted partner, through training, mentoring and the provision of equipment. Since 2009, the UK has trained over 34,000 LAF personnel and dedicated over £106 million in funding The UK has also helped to construct nearly 80 Border Observation posts and Forward Operating Bases as part of efforts to support Lebanese border security.

    The Prime Minister, Foreign Secretary, and Defence Secretary continue to call for an immediate ceasefire and increase in humanitarian aid in both Lebanon and Gaza to allow space for a political solution. The FCDO advises all British nationals should leave Lebanon immediately and have arranged several charter flights from Lebanon in recent weeks to support this.

    Defence Secretary, John Healey said:

    Today’s delivery of supplies from the RAF is in direct response to a request from the Lebanese Armed Forces.

    The UK has supported the LAF for more than a decade, as the sole legitimate force of the Lebanese state.  Our support for the LAF can help build the foundations for a stable Lebanon, as part of our wider efforts towards de-escalation and peace in the region.

    We continue to work closely with our partners and allies in calling for an immediate ceasefire.

    Foreign Secretary David, Lammy said:

    This package of UK support demonstrates our ongoing commitment to Lebanon’s only legitimate armed forces, forces essential for stability and security of the state and wider region.

    We continue to call for an immediate ceasefire between Lebanese Hizballah and Israel and a political plan consistent with UN Security Council Resolution 1701. That is the only way to restore security and stability for the people living on both sides of the border.

    In October 2024, as a direct response to the mass displacement of people and growing number of civilian casualties, the UK boosted its humanitarian support for Lebanon with a further £10 million. The announcement follows the £5 million humanitarian package delivered through UNICEF to support access to clean water and sanitation, health, and nutrition supplies. The UK has also agreed to match public donations to the DEC Middle East Humanitarian Appeal of up to £10 million.

    The UK government is completely committed to peace in the Middle East and continues to call for de-escalation in the region after being the first nation in the G7 to do so. A ceasefire would pave the way for civilians on both sides of the border to return to their homes.

    Updates to this page

    Published 25 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: English Translation of Keynote Address by Prime Minister at the 18th Asia-Pacific Conference of German Businesses (APK 2024)

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 25 OCT 2024 2:55PM by PIB Delhi

    Excellency Chancellor Scholz,

    Vice Chancellor Dr. Robert Habeck,

    Ministers of the Indian Government,

    Dr. Busch, Chairman of the Asia-Pacific Committee of German Business,

    Industry leaders from India, Germany, and Indo-Pacific countries,

    Ladies and gentlemen,

    Namaskar!

    Guten Tag!

    Friends,

    Today is a very special day.

    My friend, Chancellor Scholz, has come to India for the fourth time.

    His first visit was as a Mayor, and the next three have been during his terms as the Chancellor, which highlights his focus on India-Germany relations.

    The Asia-Pacific Conference of German Business is being held in India after a gap of 12 years.

    On one hand, a CEO forum meeting is taking place, and on the other, our navies are exercising together. German naval ships are currently on a port call in Goa. Additionally, the seventh Inter-Governmental Consultations between India and Germany will be held shortly.

    Clearly, the friendship between India and Germany is deepening at every step, on every front.

    Friends,

    This year marks the 25th anniversary of the India-Germany Strategic Partnership.

    The next 25 years will see this partnership reach new heights.

    We have created a roadmap for India’s development over the coming 25 years.

    I am happy that at such a critical time, the German Cabinet has released the “Focus on India” document.

    The world’s two strongest democracies,

    Two of the world’s leading economies, together, we can become a force for global good, and the Focus on India document provides a blueprint for this. In this, Germany’s holistic approach and commitment to pursuing the strategic partnership are clearly evident. Especially noteworthy is the trust that Germany has expressed in the skilled workforce of India.

    Germany has decided to increase the number of visas for skilled Indians from 20,000 to 90,000 per year.

    I am confident that this will further boost Germany’s economic growth.

    Friends,

    Our bilateral trade has surpassed 30 billion dollars.

    Today, while hundreds of German companies operate in India, Indian companies are also rapidly expanding in Germany.

    India is becoming a prime center of diversification and de-risking and is emerging as a hub of global trade and manufacturing. Given this scenario, now is the most opportune time for you to make in India, and make for the world.

    Friends,

    The Asia-Pacific Conference has played an essential role in strengthening relations between the EU and the Asia-Pacific region. But I don’t see this platform as limited to trade and investment alone.

    I see it as a partnership for the Indo-Pacific region and a better future for the world. The world needs stability and sustainability, trust and transparency. These values must be emphasized on every front, whether in society or supply chains. Without them, no country or region can envision a brighter future.

    The Indo-Pacific region is very important for the future of the world. Whether it is in terms of global growth, population, or skills, the contribution and potential of this region are immense.

    This conference, therefore, holds even greater significance.

    Friends,

    The people of India value a stable polity and a predictable policy ecosystem.

    This is why, after 60 years, a government has been elected for a third consecutive term. This trust in India has been strengthened over the last decade through reform, performance, and transformative governance.

    When the common citizen of India feels this way, where else would be better for businesses and investors like you?

    Friends,

    India stands on four strong pillars: Democracy, Demography, Demand, and Data. Talent, technology, innovation, and infrastructure are the tools for India’s growth. Today, an additional great force drives all of these: the strength of Aspirational India.

    That is, the combined power of AI — Artificial Intelligence and Aspirational India — is with us. Our youth are driving Aspirational India.

    In the last century, natural resources accelerated development. In this century, human resources and innovations will propel growth. This is why India is committed to democratizing skills and technology for its youth.

    Friends,

    India is working today for the needs of the future world.

    Whether it is Mission AI,

    Our Semiconductor Mission,

    the Quantum Mission,

    Mission Green Hydrogen,

    Missions related to space technology,

    or the Digital India Mission, all of them aim to provide the best and most reliable solutions for the world. These areas offer numerous investment and collaboration opportunities for all of you.

    Friends,

    India is committed to providing every innovation with a strong platform and the best infrastructure. Our digital public infrastructure is creating endless opportunities for new startups and Industry 4.0. India is also transforming its physical infrastructure with record investments in rail, roads, airports, and ports. There are extensive opportunities here for companies from Germany and the Indo-Pacific region.

    I am pleased that India and Germany are working together on renewable energy.

    Last month, the fourth Global Renewable Energy Investors Meet was organized in Gujarat in collaboration with Germany.

    An India-Germany platform has also been launched for investing in renewable energy at the global level. I hope you will take advantage of the green hydrogen ecosystem that India is developing.

    Friends,

    This is the right time to join India’s growth story.

    When India’s dynamism meets Germany’s precision,

    When Germany’s engineering meets India’s innovation,

    When Germany’s technology combines with India’s talent, a brighter future is envisioned for the Indo-Pacific region and the world.

    Friends,

    You belong to the business world.

    Your mantra is “When we meet, we mean business.”

    But coming to India is not only about business; if you miss India’s culture, cuisine, and shopping, you will miss a lot.

    I assure you: You will be happy, and your family back home will be even happier.

    Thank you very much, and may this conference and your stay in India be both fruitful and memorable.

    Thank you.

    DISCLAIMER -This is the approximate translation of Prime Minister’s remarks. Original remarks were delivered

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DPIIT forges alliance with HCLSoftware to herald India’s startup revolution

    Source: Government of India (2)

    DPIIT forges alliance with HCLSoftware to herald India’s startup revolution

    Under Startup India initiative, DPIIT signed over 80 MoUs with industry stakeholders till date

    The collaboration to propel India’s manufacturing sector and support its goal of becoming a National production hub

    Posted On: 25 OCT 2024 12:17PM by PIB Delhi

    Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT)  announced a strategic partnership with HCLSoftware, a global leader in software solutions, as a vital component of its Manufacturing Incubation Initiative, on 23rd October 2024 at Vanijya Bhawan, New Delhi. In a bid to revolutionise India’s startup manufacturing ecosystem, DPIIT is creating an environment where corporate houses play a pivotal role in incubating manufacturing startups. Under the Startup India initiative, DPIIT has signed over 80 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with industry stakeholders till date.

     

    Startups will have access to the HCL SYNC program for global market exposure, allowing them to showcase their products and services worldwide, thus taking Indian innovation to an international audience. Notably, this collaboration marks a substantial step forward in advancing the Indian manufacturing sector, supporting the nation’s goal of establishing itself as a national production hub.                    

    This initiative’s objectives include developing Indian intellectual property by encouraging startups to create unique products and solutions tailored to India, improving product quality by providing startups with the tools and expertise to produce world-class products that meet global standards, and building a robust manufacturing ecosystem by establishing a network of interconnected startups and suppliers capable of supporting the full manufacturing value chain.

               

    DPIIT Joint Secretary, Mr. Sanjiv Singh, highlighted the necessity of this partnership to establish a sustainable manufacturing ecosystem, stating that HCLSoftware’s expertise and dedication to supporting startups align seamlessly with DPIIT’s vision. Mr. Sanjiv noted that through this collaboration, innovation will flourish, and Indian businesses will gain a stronger foothold on the global stage. Outlining the goals of DPIIT’s flagship program, Startup India, Mr. Sanjiv reaffirmed DPIIT’s commitment to fostering and promoting the nation’s manufacturing ecosystem by motivating and supporting product startups, innovators, and entrepreneurs. This collaboration will significantly contribute to the realisation of India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative and position India as a global manufacturing hub.

    Director, Startup India, Dr. Sumeet K. Jarangal, emphasized that the primary objective of this initiative is to boost India’s manufacturing sector by empowering startups with cutting-edge digital technologies and providing access to global markets. Dr. Jarangal further elaborated that HCLSoftware is dedicated to collaborating with DPIIT and Startup India to elevate Indian manufacturing startups to new heights, fostering excellence and growth, and thereby crafting a success story. HCLSoftware will play an essential role in supporting startups through every phase, from design and development to sales and marketing, utilising its digital manufacturing and aftermarket solutions.

     

    Kalyan Kumar, Chief Product Officer at HCLSoftware, remarked that this collaboration is a pivotal moment in India’s manufacturing journey. Reiterating HCLSoftware’s commitment to equipping startups with essential tools and support, Kumar stated that the company would exhaust all efforts to foster innovation and economic growth, contributing significantly to India’s vision of becoming a global manufacturing powerhouse.

    ****

    AD/DS/CNAN

    (Release ID: 2068012) Visitor Counter : 15

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Commission approves €724 million Danish State aid greenhouse gas tax reduction scheme for companies at risk of carbon leakage

    Source: EuroStat – European Statistics

    European Commission Press release Brussels, 25 Oct 2024 The European Commission has approved, under EU State aid rules, a €724 million (DKK 5.4 billion) Danish scheme to lower the rate of a new greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions tax for certain companies.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Minutes – Thursday, 24 October 2024 – Strasbourg – Final edition

    Source: European Parliament

    PV-10-2024-10-24

    EN

    EN

    iPlPv_Sit

    Minutes
    Thursday, 24 October 2024 – Strasbourg

    IN THE CHAIR: Esteban GONZÁLEZ PONS
    Vice-President

    1. Opening of the sitting

    The sitting opened at 09:00.


    2. Composition of committees and delegations

    The PPE Group had notified the President of the following decisions changing the composition of the committees and delegations:

    ENVI Committee: Hanna Gronkiewicz-Waltz

    FISC Subcommittee: Danuše Nerudová

    Delegation to the EU-Ukraine Parliamentary Association Committee: Michał Szczerba

    Delegation for relations with Israel: Hildegard Bentele to replace Daniel Buda

    Delegation to the EU-Türkiye Joint Parliamentary Committee: Daniel Buda to replace Hildegard Bentele

    The decisions took effect as of that day.


    3. Closing the EU skills gap: supporting people in the digital and green transitions to ensure inclusive growth and competitiveness in line with the Draghi report (debate)

    Commission statement: Closing the EU skills gap: supporting people in the digital and green transitions to ensure inclusive growth and competitiveness in line with the Draghi report (2024/2871(RSP))

    Janusz Wojciechowski (Member of the Commission) made the statement.

    The following spoke: Liesbet Sommen, on behalf of the PPE Group, Gabriele Bischoff, on behalf of the S&D Group, Paolo Borchia, on behalf of the PfE Group, Mariateresa Vivaldini, on behalf of the ECR Group, Brigitte van den Berg, on behalf of the Renew Group, Nela Riehl, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Li Andersson, on behalf of The Left Group, Rada Laykova, on behalf of the ESN Group, Jagna Marczułajtis-Walczak, Heléne Fritzon, Pascale Piera, Georgiana Teodorescu, Grégory Allione, Sara Matthieu, Marina Mesure, Diego Solier, Andreas Schwab, Niels Fuglsang, Annamária Vicsek, Marlena Maląg, Hristo Petrov, Benedetta Scuderi, Dario Tamburrano, Pilar del Castillo Vera, Marcos Ros Sempere, Antonella Sberna, Ľudovít Ódor, Rasmus Andresen, Hanna Gedin, Sérgio Humberto, who also answered a blue-card question from João Oliveira, Elisabetta Gualmini, Kris Van Dijck, Billy Kelleher, João Oliveira, Giusi Princi, Tiemo Wölken, Beatrice Timgren, Catarina Martins, Andrea Wechsler, Marit Maij, Tobiasz Bocheński, who also answered a blue-card question from Branislav Ondruš, Arba Kokalari, Johan Danielsson, Paulius Saudargas, Idoia Mendia, Andrzej Buła, Estelle Ceulemans, Axel Voss, Alex Agius Saliba, Esther Herranz García, Marc Angel, Maravillas Abadía Jover, Annalisa Corrado and Bruno Gonçalves.

    The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Hélder Sousa Silva.

    IN THE CHAIR: Pina PICIERNO
    Vice-President

    The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Nina Carberry, Nikolina Brnjac, Tomislav Sokol, Maria Grapini, Branislav Ondruš, Grzegorz Braun and Milan Mazurek.

    The following spoke: Janusz Wojciechowski.

    The debate closed.


    4. Abuse of new technologies to manipulate and radicalise young people through hate speech and antidemocratic discourse (debate)

    Commission statement: Abuse of new technologies to manipulate and radicalise young people through hate speech and antidemocratic discourse (2024/2887(RSP))

    Janusz Wojciechowski (Member of the Commission) made the statement.

    The following spoke: Lídia Pereira, on behalf of the PPE Group, Alex Agius Saliba, on behalf of the S&D Group, Jorge Buxadé Villalba, on behalf of the PfE Group, Piotr Müller, on behalf of the ECR Group, Laurence Farreng, on behalf of the Renew Group, Kim Van Sparrentak, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Pernando Barrena Arza, on behalf of The Left Group, Petras Gražulis, on behalf of the ESN Group, Eleonora Meleti, Sabrina Repp, Fabrice Leggeri, Ivaylo Valchev, Hristo Petrov, Alexandra Geese, who also answered a blue-card question from Sebastian Tynkkynen, Ivan David, Milan Mazurek (The President reminded the speaker of the provisions of Rule 10), Zoltán Tarr, Francisco Assis, Susanna Ceccardi, Paolo Inselvini, Irena Joveva, Lena Schilling, Christine Anderson, Ondřej Dostál, Manuela Ripa, Gerolf Annemans, Veronika Cifrová Ostrihoňová, Jaume Asens Llodrà, Marc Jongen, Łukasz Kohut, Alexandre Varaut, Taner Kabilov, Sebastian Kruis, Tiago Moreira de Sá, who also answered a blue-card question from Bruno Gonçalves, Hermann Tertsch and Mathilde Androuët.

    The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Matej Tonin, Juan Fernando López Aguilar, Sebastian Tynkkynen and Lukas Sieper.

    The following spoke: Janusz Wojciechowski.

    The debate closed.

    (The sitting was suspended for a few moments.)


    IN THE CHAIR: Roberta METSOLA
    President

    5. Resumption of the sitting

    The sitting resumed at 12:05.


    6. Sakharov Prize 2024 (announcement of the winner)

    The President announced that Parliament had decided to award the 2024 Sakharov Prize to María Corina Machado, leader of the democratic forces in Venezuela, and to President-elect Edmundo González Urrutia, representing all Venezuelans fighting to restore freedom and democracy to their country.


    7. Request for the waiver of immunity

    The competent Lithuanian authorities had sent the President a request for Petras Gražulis’s immunity to be waived in connection with legal proceedings in Lithuania.

    Pursuant to Rule 9(1), the request had been referred to the committee responsible, in this case the JURI Committee.

    (The sitting was suspended for a few moments.)


    IN THE CHAIR: Javi LÓPEZ
    Vice-President

    8. Resumption of the sitting

    The sitting resumed at 12:10.

    ⁂

    The following spoke: Lukas Sieper (the President took due note).


    9. Voting time

    For detailed results, see also ‘Results of votes’ and ‘Results of roll-call votes’.


    9.1. Situation in Azerbaijan, violation of human rights and international law and relations with Armenia (vote)

    Motions for resolutions RC-B10-0133/2024, B10-0129/2024, B10-0131/2024, B10-0133/2024, B10-0136/2024, B10-0139/2024, B10-0141/2024 and B10-0142/2024 (minutes of 24.10.2024, item I) (2024/2890(RSP))

    (Majority of the votes cast)

    JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

    Adopted (P10_TA(2024)0029)

    (Motions for resolutions B10-0129/2024 and B10-0131/2024 fell.)

    (‘Results of votes’, item 1)


    9.2. People’s Republic of China’s misinterpretation of the UN resolution 2758 and its continuous military provocations around Taiwan (vote)

    Motions for resolutions RC-B10-0134/2024, B10-0130/2024, B10-0132/2024, B10-0134/2024, B10-0135/2024, B10-0137/2024, B10-0138/2024 and B10-0140/2024 (minutes of 24.10.2024, item I) (2024/2891(RSP))

    (Majority of the votes cast)

    JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

    Adopted (P10_TA(2024)0030)

    (Motions for resolutions B10-0130/2024 and B10-0132/2024 fell.)

    (‘Results of votes’, item 2)

    (The sitting was suspended at 12:17.)


    IN THE CHAIR: Antonella SBERNA
    Vice-President

    10. Resumption of the sitting

    The sitting resumed at 15:00.


    11. Approval of the minutes of the previous sitting

    The minutes of the previous sitting were approved.


    12. Protecting our oceans: persistent threats to marine protected areas in the EU and benefits for coastal communities (debate)

    Commission statement: Protecting our oceans: persistent threats to marine protected areas in the EU and benefits for coastal communities (2024/2888(RSP))

    Janusz Wojciechowski (Member of the Commission) made the statement.

    The following spoke: Francisco José Millán Mon, on behalf of the PPE Group, Christophe Clergeau, on behalf of the S&D Group, France Jamet, on behalf of the PfE Group, Billy Kelleher, on behalf of the Renew Group, Isabella Lövin, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Emma Fourreau, on behalf of The Left Group, Siegbert Frank Droese, on behalf of the ESN Group, Hélder Sousa Silva, André Rodrigues, André Rougé, Ana Miranda Paz, Per Clausen, Seán Kelly and Thomas Bajada.

    The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Niels Geuking, Jean-Marc Germain, Pernando Barrena Arza and Lukas Sieper.

    The following spoke: Janusz Wojciechowski.

    The debate closed.


    13. Explanations of vote

    Written explanations of vote

    Explanations of vote submitted in writing under Rule 201 appear on the Members’ pages on Parliament’s website.

    Oral explanations of vote


    13.1. Situation in Azerbaijan, violation of human rights and international law and relations with Armenia (RC-B10-0133/2024)

    The following spoke: Seán Kelly.


    13.2. People’s Republic of China’s misinterpretation of the UN resolution 2758 and its continuous military provocations around Taiwan (RC-B10-0134/2024)

    The following spoke: Seán Kelly.


    14. Approval of the minutes of the sitting and forwarding of texts adopted

    In accordance with Rule 208(3), the minutes of the sitting would be put to the House for approval at the start of the next sitting.

    With Parliament’s agreement, the texts adopted during the part-session would be forwarded to their respective addressees without delay.


    15. Dates of forthcoming sittings

    The next sittings would be held on 13 November 2024 and 14 November 2024.


    16. Closure of the sitting

    The sitting closed at 15:41.


    17. Adjournment of the session

    The session of the European Parliament was adjourned.

    Alessandro Chiocchetti

    Roberta Metsola

    Secretary-General

    President


    LIST OF DOCUMENTS SERVING AS A BASIS FOR THE DEBATES AND DECISIONS OF PARLIAMENT


    I. Motions for resolutions tabled

    Situation in Azerbaijan, violation of human rights and international law and relations with Armenia

    Motions for resolutions tabled under Rule 136(2) to wind up the debate:

    on the situation in Azerbaijan, violation of human rights and international law and relations with Armenia (2024/2890(RSP)) (B10-0129/2024)
    Giorgos Georgiou
    on behalf of The Left Group

    on the situation in Azerbaijan, violation of human rights and international law and relations with Armenia (2024/2890(RSP)) (B10-0131/2024)
    Tomasz Froelich
    on behalf of the ESN

    on the situation in Azerbaijan, violation of human rights and international law and relations with Armenia (2024/2890(RSP)) (B10-0133/2024)
    Sergey Lagodinsky, Ville Niinistö, Maria Ohisalo, Catarina Vieira, Hannah Neumann, Nicolae Ştefănuță, Markéta Gregorová, Michael Bloss, Alice Kuhnke, Isabella Lövin, Pär Holmgren, Marie Toussaint
    on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group

    on the situation in Azerbaijan, violation of human rights and international law and relations with Armenia (2024/2980(RSP)) (B10-0136/2024)
    Yannis Maniatis, Nacho Sánchez Amor, Udo Bullmann, Raphaël Glucksmann, Francisco Assis
    on behalf of the S&D Group

    on the situation in Azerbaijan, violation of human rights and international law and relations with Armenia (2024/2890(RSP)) (B10-0139/2024)
    Nathalie Loiseau, Petras Auštrevičius, Helmut Brandstätter, Benoit Cassart, Olivier Chastel, Veronika Cifrová Ostrihoňová, Bernard Guetta, Karin Karlsbro, Ľubica Karvašová, Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, Hilde Vautmans, Lucia Yar, Dainius Žalimas
    on behalf of the Renew Group

    on the situation in Azerbaijan, violation of human rights and international law and relations with Armenia (2024/2890(RSP)) (B10-0141/2024)
    Rasa Juknevičienė, François-Xavier Bellamy, Michael Gahler, Andrzej Halicki, David McAllister, Sebastião Bugalho, Nicolás Pascual De La Parte, Isabel Wiseler-Lima, Daniel Caspary, Loucas Fourlas, Sandra Kalniete, Łukasz Kohut, Andrey Kovatchev, Andrius Kubilius, Miriam Lexmann, Vangelis Meimarakis, Ana Miguel Pedro, Davor Ivo Stier, Michał Szczerba
    on behalf of the PPE Group

    on the situation in Azerbaijan, violation of human rights and international law and relations with Armenia (2024/2890(RSP)) (B10-0142/2024)
    Şerban-Dimitrie Sturdza, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Aurelijus Veryga, Claudiu-Richard Târziu, Assita Kanko
    on behalf of the ECR Group

    Joint motion for a resolution tabled under Rule 136(2) and (4):
    on the situation in Azerbaijan, violation of human rights and international law and relations with Armenia (2024/2890(RSP)) (RC-B10-0133/2024)
    (replacing motions for resolutions B10-0133/2024, B10-0136/2024, B10-0139/2024, B10-0141/2024 and B10-0142/2024)
    Rasa Juknevičienė, François-Xavier Bellamy, Michael Gahler, Andrzej Halicki, David McAllister, Sebastião Bugalho, Nicolás Pascual De La Parte, Isabel Wiseler-Lima, Daniel Caspary, Loucas Fourlas, Sandra Kalniete, Łukasz Kohut, Andrey Kovatchev, Andrius Kubilius, Miriam Lexmann, Vangelis Meimarakis, Ana Miguel Pedro, Davor Ivo Stier, Michał Szczerba
    on behalf of the PPE Group
    Yannis Maniatis, Nacho Sánchez Amor, Raphaël Glucksmann, Udo Bullmann, Matthias Ecke, Francisco Assis
    on behalf of the S&D Group
    Emmanouil Fragkos, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Assita Kanko, Marion Maréchal, Aurelijus Veryga, Geadis Geadi, Rihards Kols, Bert-Jan Ruissen, Charlie Weimers
    on behalf of the ECR Group
    Nathalie Loiseau, Petras Auštrevičius, Helmut Brandstätter, Benoit Cassart, Olivier Chastel, Bernard Guetta, Karin Karlsbro, Ľubica Karvašová, Moritz Körner, Veronika Cifrová Ostrihoňová, Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, Hilde Vautmans, Lucia Yar, Dainius Žalimas
    on behalf of the Renew Group
    Sergey Lagodinsky
    on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group

    People’s Republic of China’s misinterpretation of the UN resolution 2758 and its continuous military provocations around Taiwan

    Motions for resolutions tabled under Rule 136(2) to wind up the debate:

    on the People’s Republic of China’s misinterpretation of the UN resolution 2758 and its continuous military provocations around Taiwan (2024/2891(RSP)) (B10-0130/2024)
    Danilo Della Valle
    on behalf of The Left Group

    on the People’s Republic of China’s misinterpretation of the UN resolution 2758 and its continuous military provocations around Taiwan (2024/2891(RSP)) (B10-0132/2024)
    Petr Bystron, Hans Neuhoff
    on behalf of the ESN

    on the People’s Republic of China’s misinterpretation of UN Resolution 2758 and its continuous military provocations around Taiwan (2024/2891(RSP)) (B10-0134/2024)
    Markéta Gregorová, Ville Niinistö, Maria Ohisalo, Hannah Neumann, Diana Riba i Giner, Nicolae Ştefănuță, Erik Marquardt
    on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group

    on the People’s Republic of China’s misinterpretation of the UN resolution 2758 and its continuous military provocations around Taiwan (2024/2891(RSP)) (B10-0135/2024)
    Engin Eroglu, Petras Auštrevičius, Malik Azmani, Helmut Brandstätter, Dan Barna, Veronika Cifrová Ostrihoňová, João Cotrim De Figueiredo, Bernard Guetta, Svenja Hahn, Nathalie Loiseau, Ľubica Karvašová, Karin Karlsbro, Ana Vasconcelos, Lucia Yar, Dainius Žalimas
    on behalf of the Renew Group

    on the People’s Republic of China’s misinterpretation of the UN resolution 2758 and its continuous military provocations around Taiwan (2024/2891(RSP)) (B10-0137/2024)
    Yannis Maniatis, Kathleen Van Brempt, Tonino Picula
    on behalf of the S&D Group

    on People’s Republic of China’s misinterpretation of the UN resolution 2758 and its continuous military provocations around Taiwan (2024/2891(RSP)) (B10-0138/2024)
    Adam Bielan, Charlie Weimers, Bert-Jan Ruissen, Mariusz Kamiński, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Michał Dworczyk, Carlo Fidanza, Alexandr Vondra, Alberico Gambino, Rihards Kols, Reinis Pozņaks, Ondřej Krutílek, Veronika Vrecionová, Assita Kanko, Małgorzata Gosiewska, Joachim Stanisław Brudziński
    on behalf of the ECR Group

    on the People’s Republic of China’s misinterpretation of the UN resolution 2758 and its continuous military provocations around Taiwan (2024/2891(RSP)) (B10-0140/2024)
    Miriam Lexmann, Sebastião Bugalho, Rasa Juknevičienė, Danuše Nerudová
    on behalf of the PPE Group

    Joint motion for a resolution tabled under Rule 136(2) and (4):
    on the misinterpretation of UN resolution 2758 by the People’s Republic of China and its continuous military provocations around Taiwan (2024/2891(RSP)) (RC-B10-0134/2024)
    (replacing motions for resolutions B10-0134/2024, B10-0135/2024, B10-0137/2024, B10-0138/2024 and B10-0140/2024)
    Michael Gahler, Miriam Lexmann, Sebastião Bugalho, Rasa Juknevičienė, Danuše Nerudová
    on behalf of the PPE Group
    Yannis Maniatis, Kathleen Van Brempt, Tonino Picula
    on behalf of the S&D Group
    Joachim Stanisław Brudziński, Adam Bielan, Mariusz Kamiński, Charlie Weimers, Michał Dworczyk, Alexandr Vondra, Veronika Vrecionová, Ondřej Krutílek, Rihards Kols, Maciej Wąsik, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Alberico Gambino, Bert-Jan Ruissen, Carlo Fidanza
    on behalf of the ECR Group
    Engin Eroglu, Petras Auštrevičius, Helmut Brandstätter, Dan Barna, Veronika Cifrová Ostrihoňová, João Cotrim De Figueiredo, Bernard Guetta, Svenja Hahn, Ľubica Karvašová, Karin Karlsbro, Moritz Körner, Nathalie Loiseau, Jan-Christoph Oetjen, Ana Vasconcelos, Dainius Žalimas
    on behalf of the Renew Group
    Markéta Gregorová
    on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group


    II. Petitions

    Petitions Nos 1126-24 to 1190-24 had been entered in the register on 18 October 2024 and had been forwarded to the committee responsible, in accordance with Rule 232(9) and (10).

    The President had, on 18 October 2024, forwarded to the committee responsible, in accordance with Rule 232(15), petitions addressed to the European Parliament by natural or legal persons who were not citizens of the European Union and who did not reside, or have their registered office, in a Member State.


    III. Documents received

    The following documents had been submitted by Members:

    – Mathilde Androuët, Jordan Bardella, Nikola Bartůšek, Marie-Luce Brasier-Clain, Markus Buchheit, Valérie Deloge, Elisabeth Dieringer, Anne-Sophie Frigout, Jean-Paul Garraud, Roman Haider, France Jamet, Virginie Joron, Julien Leonardelli, Aleksandar Nikolic, Philippe Olivier, Gilles Pennelle, Pascale Piera, Pierre Pimpie, Julie Rechagneux, André Rougé, Julien Sanchez, Malika Sorel, Rody Tolassy, António Tânger Corrêa, Matthieu Valet, Tom Vandendriessche, Roberto Vannacci and Alexandre Varaut. Motion for a resolution on the surge in the number of sub-Saharan migrants (B10-0065/2024)
    referred to committee responsible: LIBE
    opinion: DEVE

    – Virginie Joron. Motion for a resolution on the creation of a European fund, financed by the extraordinary profits from ‘COVID-19 vaccines’, to compensate victims and to finance research into the treatment of long COVID and its persistent side-effects (B10-0067/2024)
    referred to committee responsible: ENVI
    opinion: BUDG

    – João Oliveira. Motion for a resolution on solutions to the housing crisis (B10-0068/2024)
    referred to committee responsible: EMPL
    opinion: ECON

    – Beatrice Timgren. Motion for a resolution on the audit of green investments in light of Northvolt developments (B10-0069/2024)
    referred to committee responsible: CONT
    opinion: ENVI

    – Charlie Weimers. Motion for a resolution on limiting the freedom of movement for serious criminals (B10-0075/2024)
    referred to committee responsible: LIBE

    – Dick Erixon. Motion for a resolution on design and concept flaws of new own resources (B10-0076/2024)
    referred to committee responsible: BUDG

    – Marie-Luce Brasier-Clain and Catherine Griset. Motion for a resolution on Pink October (B10-0087/2024)
    referred to committee responsible: ENVI


    ATTENDANCE REGISTER

    Present:

    Aaltola Mika, Abadía Jover Maravillas, Adamowicz Magdalena, Aftias Georgios, Agirregoitia Martínez Oihane, Agius Peter, Agius Saliba Alex, Alexandraki Galato, Allione Grégory, Al-Sahlani Abir, Anadiotis Nikolaos, Anderson Christine, Andersson Li, Andresen Rasmus, Andrews Barry, Andriukaitis Vytenis Povilas, Androuët Mathilde, Angel Marc, Annemans Gerolf, Antoci Giuseppe, Arimont Pascal, Arłukowicz Bartosz, Arnaoutoglou Sakis, Arndt Anja, Arvanitis Konstantinos, Asens Llodrà Jaume, Assis Francisco, Attard Daniel, Aubry Manon, Axinia Adrian-George, Azmani Malik, Bajada Thomas, Baljeu Jeannette, Ballarín Cereza Laura, Bardella Jordan, Barna Dan, Barrena Arza Pernando, Bartulica Stephen Nikola, Bartůšek Nikola, Bausemer Arno, Bay Nicolas, Bay Christophe, Beleris Fredis, Bellamy François-Xavier, Benea Adrian-Dragoş, Benifei Brando, Benjumea Benjumea Isabel, Bentele Hildegard, Berendsen Tom, Berger Stefan, Berlato Sergio, Bernhuber Alexander, Biedroń Robert, Bielan Adam, Bischoff Gabriele, Blaha Ľuboš, Blom Rachel, Bloss Michael, Bocheński Tobiasz, Boeselager Damian, Bonaccini Stefano, Bonte Barbara, Borchia Paolo, Borrás Pabón Mireia, Borvendég Zsuzsanna, Borzan Biljana, Bosanac Gordan, Boßdorf Irmhild, Bosse Stine, Botenga Marc, Boyer Gilles, Boylan Lynn, Brandstätter Helmut, Brasier-Clain Marie-Luce, Braun Grzegorz, Brejza Krzysztof, Bricmont Saskia, Brnjac Nikolina, Bryłka Anna, Buczek Tomasz, Buda Waldemar, Budka Borys, Bugalho Sebastião, Buła Andrzej, Burkhardt Delara, Buxadé Villalba Jorge, Bystron Petr, Bžoch Jaroslav, Camara Mélissa, Canfin Pascal, Carberry Nina, Carême Damien, Casa David, Caspary Daniel, Cassart Benoit, Castillo Laurent, del Castillo Vera Pilar, Cavazzini Anna, Cavedagna Stefano, Ceccardi Susanna, Cepeda José, Ceulemans Estelle, Chahim Mohammed, Chaibi Leila, Chastel Olivier, Chinnici Caterina, Christensen Asger, Cifrová Ostrihoňová Veronika, Ciriani Alessandro, Cisint Anna Maria, Clausen Per, Clergeau Christophe, Cormand David, Corrado Annalisa, Costanzo Vivien, Cotrim De Figueiredo João, Cowen Barry, Cremer Tobias, Crosetto Giovanni, Cunha Paulo, Dahl Henrik, Danielsson Johan, Dauchy Marie, Dávid Dóra, David Ivan, Decaro Antonio, de la Hoz Quintano Raúl, Della Valle Danilo, Deloge Valérie, De Masi Fabio, De Meo Salvatore, Demirel Özlem, Deutsch Tamás, Dibrani Adnan, Diepeveen Ton, Dieringer Elisabeth, Dîncu Vasile, Disdier Mélanie, Dobrev Klára, Doherty Regina, Doleschal Christian, Dömötör Csaba, Dorfmann Herbert, Dostalova Klara, Dostál Ondřej, Droese Siegbert Frank, Düpont Lena, Dworczyk Michał, Ehler Christian, Ehlers Marieke, Eriksson Sofie, Erixon Dick, Eroglu Engin, Everding Sebastian, Ezcurra Almansa Alma, Falcone Marco, Farantouris Nikolas, Farreng Laurence, Farský Jan, Ferber Markus, Ferenc Viktória, Fidanza Carlo, Fiocchi Pietro, Firmenich Ruth, Fita Claire, Fourlas Loucas, Fourreau Emma, Fragkos Emmanouil, Freund Daniel, Frigout Anne-Sophie, Friis Sigrid, Fritzon Heléne, Froelich Tomasz, Fuglsang Niels, Funchion Kathleen, Furet Angéline, Gahler Michael, Gál Kinga, Galán Estrella, Gálvez Lina, García Hermida-Van Der Walle Raquel, Garraud Jean-Paul, Gasiuk-Pihowicz Kamila, Geadi Geadis, Gedin Hanna, Geese Alexandra, Geier Jens, Gemma Chiara, Gerbrandy Gerben-Jan, Germain Jean-Marc, Gerzsenyi Gabriella, Geuking Niels, Gieseke Jens, Giménez Larraz Borja, Girauta Vidal Juan Carlos, Glavak Sunčana, Glucksmann Raphaël, Goerens Charles, Gomes Isilda, Gonçalves Bruno, Gonçalves Sérgio, González Casares Nicolás, González Pons Esteban, Gori Giorgio, Gosiewska Małgorzata, Gotink Dirk, Gozi Sandro, Grapini Maria, Gražulis Petras, Griset Catherine, Gronkiewicz-Waltz Hanna, Grossmann Elisabeth, Gualmini Elisabetta, Guetta Bernard, Guzenina Maria, Gyürk András, Hahn Svenja, Haider Roman, Halicki Andrzej, Hansen Niels Flemming, Hassan Rima, Häusling Martin, Hava Mircea-Gheorghe, Hazekamp Anja, Heide Hannes, Heinäluoma Eero, Herbst Niclas, Herranz García Esther, Hetman Krzysztof, Hohlmeier Monika, Hojsík Martin, Holmgren Pär, Hölvényi György, Humberto Sérgio, Ijabs Ivars, Imart Céline, Incir Evin, Inselvini Paolo, Iovanovici Şoşoacă Diana, Jaki Patryk, Jalloul Muro Hana, Jamet France, Jarubas Adam, Jerković Romana, Jongen Marc, Joński Dariusz, Joron Virginie, Jouvet Pierre, Joveva Irena, Juknevičienė Rasa, Junco García Nora, Jungbluth Alexander, Kabilov Taner, Kalfon François, Kaliňák Erik, Kalniete Sandra, Kamiński Mariusz, Kanev Radan, Kanko Assita, Karlsbro Karin, Kartheiser Fernand, Karvašová Ľubica, Katainen Elsi, Kefalogiannis Emmanouil, Kelleher Billy, Keller Fabienne, Kelly Seán, Kennes Rudi, Khan Mary, Kircher Sophia, Knafo Sarah, Knotek Ondřej, Kobosko Michał, Köhler Stefan, Kohut Łukasz, Kokalari Arba, Kolář Ondřej, Kollár Kinga, Kols Rihards, Konečná Kateřina, Kopacz Ewa, Körner Moritz, Kountoura Elena, Kovatchev Andrey, Krah Maximilian, Krištopans Vilis, Kruis Sebastian, Krutílek Ondřej, Kubilius Andrius, Kubín Tomáš, Kuhnke Alice, Kulja András Tivadar, Kulmuni Katri, Lagodinsky Sergey, Lakos Eszter, Lange Bernd, Laššáková Judita, László András, Latinopoulou Afroditi, Laurent Murielle, Laureti Camilla, Laykova Rada, Lazarov Ilia, Lazarus Luis-Vicențiu, Le Callennec Isabelle, Leggeri Fabrice, Lenaers Jeroen, Leonardelli Julien, Lewandowski Janusz, Lexmann Miriam, Liese Peter, Lins Norbert, Lopatka Reinhold, López Javi, López Aguilar Juan Fernando, Lövin Isabella, Lucano Mimmo, Luena César, Łukacijewska Elżbieta Katarzyna, Lupo Giuseppe, McAllister David, Madison Jaak, Maestre Cristina, Magoni Lara, Maij Marit, Maląg Marlena, Mandl Lukas, Maniatis Yannis, Maran Pierfrancesco, Marczułajtis-Walczak Jagna, Maréchal Marion, Mariani Thierry, Marino Ignazio Roberto, Marquardt Erik, Martín Frías Jorge, Martins Catarina, Marzà Ibáñez Vicent, Matthieu Sara, Mavrides Costas, Mayer Georg, Mazurek Milan, McNamara Michael, Mebarek Nora, Meimarakis Vangelis, Meleti Eleonora, Mendes Ana Catarina, Mendia Idoia, Mertens Verena, Mesure Marina, Metsola Roberta, Metz Tilly, Mikser Sven, Millán Mon Francisco José, Minchev Nikola, Miranda Paz Ana, Montero Irene, Montserrat Dolors, Morace Carolina, Morano Nadine, Moreira de Sá Tiago, Moreno Sánchez Javier, Moretti Alessandra, Mularczyk Arkadiusz, Müller Piotr, Mullooly Ciaran, Mureşan Siegfried, Muşoiu Ştefan, Nagyová Jana, Negrescu Victor, Nerudová Danuše, Nesci Denis, Neumann Hannah, Nevado del Campo Elena, Niebler Angelika, Niinistö Ville, Nikolaou-Alavanos Lefteris, Nikolic Aleksandar, Ní Mhurchú Cynthia, Noichl Maria, Nordqvist Rasmus, Novakov Andrey, Nykiel Mirosława, Obajtek Daniel, Ódor Ľudovít, Ohisalo Maria, Oliveira João, Olivier Philippe, Omarjee Younous, Ondruš Branislav, Ó Ríordáin Aodhán, Orlando Leoluca, Ozdoba Jacek, Paet Urmas, Pajín Leire, Palmisano Valentina, Papadakis Kostas, Papandreou Nikos, Pappas Nikos, Paulus Jutta, Pedro Ana Miguel, Pedulla’ Gaetano, Pellerin-Carlin Thomas, Peltier Guillaume, Pennelle Gilles, Pereira Lídia, Pérez Alvise, Peter-Hansen Kira Marie, Petrov Hristo, Picaro Michele, Picierno Pina, Picula Tonino, Piera Pascale, Piperea Gheorghe, Pokorná Jermanová Jaroslava, Polato Daniele, Polfjärd Jessica, Pozņaks Reinis, Prebilič Vladimir, Princi Giusi, Protas Jacek, Pürner Friedrich, Rackete Carola, Radtke Dennis, Rafowicz Emma, Ratas Jüri, Razza Ruggero, Rechagneux Julie, Regner Evelyn, Repasi René, Repp Sabrina, Reuten Thijs, Riba i Giner Diana, Ricci Matteo, Riehl Nela, Ripa Manuela, Rodrigues André, Ros Sempere Marcos, Roth Neveďalová Katarína, Rougé André, Ruissen Bert-Jan, Ruotolo Sandro, Rzońca Bogdan, Saeidi Arash, Salini Massimiliano, Salis Ilaria, Salla Aura, Sánchez Amor Nacho, Sanchez Julien, Sancho Murillo Elena, Saramo Jussi, Sargiacomo Eric, Satouri Mounir, Saudargas Paulius, Sbai Majdouline, Sberna Antonella, Schaldemose Christel, Schenk Oliver, Scheuring-Wielgus Joanna, Schieder Andreas, Schilling Lena, Schneider Christine, Schwab Andreas, Scuderi Benedetta, Seekatz Ralf, Sell Alexander, Serrano Sierra Rosa, Serra Sánchez Isabel, Sidl Günther, Sienkiewicz Bartłomiej, Sieper Lukas, Singer Christine, Sippel Birgit, Sjöstedt Jonas, Śmiszek Krzysztof, Smith Anthony, Smit Sander, Sokol Tomislav, Solier Diego, Solís Pérez Susana, Sommen Liesbet, Sonneborn Martin, Sorel Malika, Sousa Silva Hélder, Squarta Marco, Stancanelli Raffaele, Steger Petra, Stier Davor Ivo, Storm Kristoffer, Stöteler Sebastiaan, Stoyanov Stanislav, Strada Cecilia, Streit Joachim, Strik Tineke, Strolenberg Anna, Sturdza Şerban-Dimitrie, Stürgkh Anna, Szczerba Michał, Szekeres Pál, Szydło Beata, Tamburrano Dario, Tânger Corrêa António, Tarczyński Dominik, Tarquinio Marco, Tarr Zoltán, Tavares Carla, Tegethoff Kai, Temido Marta, Teodorescu Georgiana, Ter Laak Ingeborg, Terras Riho, Tertsch Hermann, Timgren Beatrice, Tinagli Irene, Tobback Bruno, Tobé Tomas, Tolassy Rody, Tomašič Zala, Tomaszewski Waldemar, Tomc Romana, Tonin Matej, Toom Jana, Topo Raffaele, Torselli Francesco, Tosi Flavio, Toussaint Marie, Tovaglieri Isabella, Tridico Pasquale, Trochu Laurence, Tsiodras Dimitris, Turek Filip, Tynkkynen Sebastian, Uhrík Milan, Ušakovs Nils, Valchev Ivaylo, Vălean Adina, Valet Matthieu, Van Brempt Kathleen, Van Brug Anouk, van den Berg Brigitte, Vandendriessche Tom, Van Dijck Kris, Van Lanschot Reinier, Van Leeuwen Jessika, Vannacci Roberto, Van Sparrentak Kim, Varaut Alexandre, Vasconcelos Ana, Vautmans Hilde, Vedrenne Marie-Pierre, Ventola Francesco, Verheyen Sabine, Veryga Aurelijus, Vešligaj Marko, Vicsek Annamária, Vieira Catarina, Vilimsky Harald, Vincze Loránt, Virkkunen Henna, Vivaldini Mariateresa, Volgin Petar, von der Schulenburg Michael, Vondra Alexandr, Voss Axel, Vozemberg-Vrionidi Elissavet, Vrecionová Veronika, Vázquez Lázara Adrián, Waitz Thomas, Walsh Maria, Walsmann Marion, Warborn Jörgen, Warnke Jan-Peter, Wąsik Maciej, Wawrykiewicz Michał, Wcisło Marta, Wechsler Andrea, Werbrouck Séverine, Wiesner Emma, Wiezik Michal, Wilmès Sophie, Winkler Iuliu, Wiseler-Lima Isabel, Wiśniewska Jadwiga, Wölken Tiemo, Yar Lucia, Yon-Courtin Stéphanie, Yoncheva Elena, Zacharia Maria, Zajączkowska-Hernik Ewa, Zalewska Anna, Žalimas Dainius, Zarzalejos Javier, Zdechovský Tomáš, Zdrojewski Bogdan Andrzej, Złotowski Kosma, Zoido Álvarez Juan Ignacio, Zovko Željana, Zver Milan

    Excused:

    Gómez López Sandra, Homs Ginel Alicia, Lalucq Aurore

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Housing crisis in the European Union – E-002099/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    16.10.2024

    Question for written answer  E-002099/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Daniel Buda (PPE)

    The lack of affordable housing is a common problem not just in Romania, but also throughout Europe. On 11 September, the Romanian National Institute of Statistics published the number of dwellings becoming available in the first half of the year: around 26 000, which was around 6 000 fewer than in the first half of 2023.

    Some 70 900 dwellings were built in Romanian in 2023, bringing the total number of dwellings to almost 10 million, according to data from the National Institute of Statistics, against the backdrop of an ageing population and a demographically-shrinking population.

    Young people are those most affected by the lack of housing. It means they are forced to stay in their parents’ home longer than they would like. The age at which young people leave their parents’ home is a good indication of how difficult it is for them to get a foothold in the property market.

    Croats, Slovaks, Greeks, Spaniards and Italians leave their parents’ home the latest, while the inhabitants of the Nordic states leave the earliest.

    • 1.What steps will the Commission take to deal with this crisis, which is having a profound impact on the development and lives of young Europeans?
    • 2.What cohesion policy mechanisms could help in this endeavour?

    Submitted: 16.10.2024

    Last updated: 25 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: A future of diversity

    Source: European Investment Bank

    In Mauritaina, economic inclusion is lower, especially for women, than in many neighbouring countries, such as Morrocco and Senegal. The percentage of women in the workforce is about 26%. This level has stayed about the same for the past few decades, according to the World Bank. Among men, labour participation is nearly 60%. Helping women get jobs will give a big lift to gross domestic product, according to the founders of the 2X Challenge. Youth unemployment also is high in Mauritania, at about 24%.

    Oumar Mohamed Saleh, a Bank for Commerce and Industry loan officer in Mauritania’s capital, Nouakchott, says it’s almost impossible to give loans to most women without support from the European Investment Bank. The terms of the cooperation with the European Investment Bank allow his bank to make  repayments longer, reduce interest rates or ease clients’ collateral requirements. These terms are important because women often don’t have big incomes and they don’t have a home or car in their name to use as collateral. The Bank for Commerce and Industry can also allow clients to pause their payments if they are having business troubles.

    “If a woman wants to set up a little business, such as selling doughnuts, they can’t go to a bank, because they usually won’t get a loan,” Saleh says. “Women end up working informally, making clothes or helping in food preparation. But today, we can help many of these women.”

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The future of foster care

    Source: Scottish Government

    Consultation opens during Care Experience Week.

    People are being encouraged to share their views on plans for the future of foster care in Scotland.

    The consultation, which will help ensure foster care is fit for the future, sets out proposals including more peer support opportunities, and using foster carers to facilitate family time with parents and siblings of children in foster care. The new approach could potentially offer an increased role for foster carers supporting families on the edge of care.

    A national push to recruit more foster carers will also launch in 2025, with the aim of ensuring there are enough foster carers to support children in care.

    Meeting foster carers earlier this week, First Minister John Swinney heard about the important role they play in supporting children and young people. Mr Swinney encouraged foster carers and children with care experience in particular to take part in the consultation.

    Marking Care Experience Week, both the announcement of a new recruitment campaign next year and the consultation are key steps towards Keeping The Promise by delivering for care experienced children and young people.

    Minister for Children, Young People and The Promise, Natalie Don-Innes, said:

    “We want Scotland to be the best place in the world to grow up. To do this we need to ensure that children and young people with care experience are given the support, love and nurture that they need.

    “Foster carers have a key role to play in Keeping The Promise. The consultation is shaped by the honest and open reflections that have been shared by foster carers and children and young people with experience of foster care.

    “I recognise some of the challenges facing foster care and that’s why along with the consultation, we will be launching a recruitment campaign for foster carers ensuring we can provide family-based care for those in need.”

    Anne Currie, Assistant Director Scotland at the Fostering Network said:

    “The Fostering Network is pleased the Scottish Government is launching a national consultation on fostering and is seeking the views of those most affected, foster carers and care experienced young people.

    “We know urgent changes are needed to improve fostering and to Keep The Promise so all children and young people can grow up in stable, loving homes. It’s crucial that foster carers’ voices are heard, which is why we’re working with the government to host online and in-person engagement sessions to provide an opportunity to ensure their views are heard.

    “Last year the number of fostering households in Scotland fell by 8%, so retention and recruitment of foster carers are more important than ever. We welcome plans to launch a national recruitment campaign and want to ensure current and former foster carers are involved in this as much as possible.”

    Background

    The consultation will run until 6 February 2025.

    https://consult.gov.scot/children-and-families/future-of-foster-care-consultation

    Developing a universal definition of ‘care experience’ – Scottish Government consultations – Citizen Space

    The foster care recruitment campaign will run over two years with a budget of £170,000 in financial year 2024-25, funding for 2025-26 will be confirmed as part of the Scottish Government’s budget proposals.

    Looked after children – Children’s Social Work Statistics 2022-23 – Looked After Children – gov.scot (www.gov.scot)

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President Lai presides over second meeting of National Climate Change Committee

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    President Lai presides over second meeting of National Climate Change Committee
    2024-10-24

    On the afternoon of October 24, President Lai Ching-te presided over the second meeting of the National Climate Change Committee. In his opening statement, the president said that the whole world is now facing the challenges of extreme weather and carbon reduction. Noting that Taiwan plays a critical role in global technology supply chains, the president stated that we must step up climate action to enhance the international competitiveness of our industries and quicken our pace to bring us in line with global progress on carbon reduction. He added that we are willing to cooperate with countries around the world, including China, to address the challenges of climate change together. 
    President Lai emphasized that the government’s strategic direction is clear: we will promote our second energy transition to ensure a stable and resilient energy supply. Going forward, he said, the government will gradually promote energy conservation policies and encourage all sectors to promote deep energy saving through such methods as investment incentives, investment tax credits, and government subsidies to help industries save energy. He added that energy service company (ESCO) mechanisms will also be promoted through cooperation with insurance enterprises and life insurance companies to improve enterprise equipment and production processes. The president expressed his confidence that as long as everyone works together to implement innovative and transformative change, we can create opportunities for sustainable growth for generations to come.
    A translation of President Lai’s opening statement follows:
    Today is the second meeting of the National Climate Change Committee. First, I want to welcome the committee members who were on leave for the first meeting but are with us today: Paul Peng (彭双浪), Sophia Cheng (程淑芬), and Lin Tze-luen (林子倫).     
    I want to thank everyone here with us today, as well as our fellow citizens and friends for their enthusiastic participation online. This shows that everyone considers global climate change issues as matters of great importance.
    Not long ago, we saw Typhoon Krathon become the first tropical cyclone on record to make landfall in Kaohsiung in the month of October, with recorded gusts at level 17 or higher on the Beaufort scale. Responding to climate change is a major test for national resilience and sustainable development.
    Internationally, the whole world is facing increasingly severe climate change challenges. The Paris Agreement of 2015 requires each country to update its nationally determined contributions (NDCs) every five years. In 2021, COP26 increased the frequency of such updates to once every two years to accelerate progress in global carbon reduction. In addition, the next round of NDC updates for countries around the world is scheduled for the beginning of next year. 
    Therefore, we must come together and create a strong, resilient Taiwan that can respond to challenges and align with international trends. At the same time, we are willing to continue strengthening cooperation with countries around the world, including China, to address the challenges of climate change together. 
    At the beginning of this month, we launched a carbon fee system, with fees starting to be collected next year. This is a solid step. Furthermore, our strategic direction is clear: we will promote our second energy transition to ensure a stable and resilient energy supply. In addition to developing more forms of green energy to open up new energy sources, we must also promote deep energy saving and advanced energy storage technology applications to spur the transformation and development of next-generation industries; enhance Taiwan’s adaptive mechanisms to respond to climate change; and seek green growth opportunities for sustainability, as we steadily move toward our goal of net-zero emissions by 2050.   
    At today’s meeting, the Ministry of Environment will first deliver reports on the progress of certain items listed in the first committee meeting and on the promotion of the public sector chief sustainability officer alliance. The Ministry of Economic Affairs will then deliver a report on the progress in deep energy saving promotion.
    I want to thank deputy convener and Vice Premier Cheng Li-chiun (鄭麗君) for conducting numerous interministerial policy discussions in the Net Zero Emissions Transition Taskforce, under the Executive Yuan’s National Council for Sustainable Development, in the time since we convened our first meeting in August this year.  
    In a few minutes, executive secretary and Minister of Environment Peng Chi-ming (彭啓明) will explain our initial concept for an energy information platform and the current review status of our new carbon reduction goals, two issues of great concern to our committee members. The reports will help committee members and the public to better understand the government’s policies.  
    As Taiwan plays a critical role in global technology supply chains, we must step up climate action to enhance the international competitiveness of our industries and quicken our pace to bring us in line with NDCs internationally. We also need to review our goals for 2030, be more ambitious to break through obstacles, and reset new, more proactive carbon-reduction goals for 2032 and 2035.
    At the same time, the best source of energy is the energy we conserve. Our economic development requires that industries and foreign investors continue to invest in Taiwan, which requires a stable power supply. Conserving energy is more efficient than developing new energy sources and is one of the most important cost-effective methods. It is also an immediately effective strategy for reducing carbon emissions. The more energy we save, the more we can reduce carbon emissions.
    One of the conclusions reached during last year’s United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) was that by 2030, the average annual improvement rate of energy efficiency must be increased from two percent to four percent. Increasing energy efficiency is already an international consensus and trend in efforts to achieve net-zero emissions. 
    Going forward, the government will gradually promote energy conservation policies and encourage all sectors to promote deep energy saving. From high-emission enterprises to hospitals and schools, and even homes and individuals, everyone needs to participate. The government cannot promote deep energy saving alone. Like a baseball team, for the team to be really good, everyone must play their role.  
    ESCOs, like analysts and trainers on baseball teams, can provide enterprises with the most cost-effective, tailor-made energy-saving plans to ensure that every dollar invested achieves the best possible energy savings. 
    Moving forward, in promoting deep energy saving, we need ESCOs to be involved to strengthen our “lineup.” The government will cooperate with industry to propose methods including investment incentives, investment tax credits, and government subsidies to help industries save energy. The government will also cooperate with insurance enterprises and life insurance companies to promote ESCO mechanisms, and will provide funding assistance to upgrade equipment and improve production processes, with the savings on electricity costs returned to investors. Insurance premiums will be used for national development, forming a virtuous circular economy. 
    The whole world is now facing the challenges of extreme weather and carbon reduction. But I am confident that as long as everyone works together to implement innovative and transformative change, we can create opportunities for sustainable growth for generations to come.
    Through this meeting, we will not only rely on the expertise of our advisors and committee members for diverse discussions and collective brainstorming. We will also reference innovative and pragmatic strategies for green growth adopted by countries such as the United Kingdom and Japan. Through joint actions of the public sector in conjunction with the various sectors of society, we can more efficiently accelerate Taiwan’s efforts to achieve net-zero carbon emissions.
    In a few minutes, I will invite everyone to actively share your expertise and experience. Thank you.
    Following his statement, President Lai heard a report on the promotion of the public sector chief sustainability officer alliance from Minister Peng and a report on the progress in deep energy saving promotion from Vice Minister of Economic Affairs Lien Ching-chang (連錦漳). Afterward, President Lai exchanged views with the committee members regarding the content of the reports.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Poland expands EIB’s Ukraine reconstruction fund with €25 million

    Source: European Investment Bank

    • Poland provides €25 million to EIB fund supporting critical recovery projects in Ukraine.
    • Polish contribution increases size of EU for Ukraine Fund to nearly €400 million.

    The Polish government has contributed €25 million to a European Investment Bank (EIB) fund dedicated to the reconstruction of Ukraine following Russia’s full-scale military invasion in 2022. The agreement between the EIB and Poland increases the size of the EU for Ukraine Fund to €398.35 million.

    Created by the EIB in 2023, the fund aims to help rebuild infrastructure, restore essential services and stimulate economic growth in Ukraine. Part of the EU for Ukraine (EU4U) initiative supporting vital public and private reconstruction projects and improving access to finance for entrepreneurs in the country, the fund has received contributions to date from 14 EU countries.   

    “Poland joining the EIB-led EU for Ukraine Fund marks an important step in supporting Ukraine’s economic resilience,” said EIB vice-President responsible for operations in Ukraine, Teresa Czerwińska. “Thanks to the Polish contribution, the fund is now worth nearly 400 million euros. This money will help drive public sector investment to rebuild critical infrastructure, as well as propping up Ukrainian entrepreneurs and businesses to keep the economy going. On top of that, the EIB finances from its own resources advisory support to prepare infrastructure investment projects despite the ongoing war.”

    “Supporting Ukraine has been a long-standing priority for Poland, including through development cooperation. Since the Russian aggression on Ukraine in 2022 our efforts have intensified to address humanitarian needs and help Ukraine in recovery and post-war reconstruction. Poland is proud to be one of the initiators of the establishment of the EU for Ukraine Fund in 2023 and now to fulfil our political commitment with financial contribution of €25 million EUR. We hope that these funds will also help Ukraine to modernize on its EU accession path” said Polish Undersecretary of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Jakub Wiśniewski.

    In addition to Poland, the EU for Ukraine Fund has received contributions from Belgium, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, the Netherlands and Spain.

    The guarantees provided under the Fund enable the EIB to support reconstruction projects in Ukraine that might otherwise be too risky to finance. The EU for Ukraine Fund also supports project promoters and beneficiaries by lowering the borrowing costs for them through investment grants.

    The fund has already supported several projects including by providing €25 million for an initiative to strengthen small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Ukraine and Moldova and €50 million for a new metro fleet in the capital Kyiv. Other projects in the pipeline include renovation works for damaged housing, repairs to Ukraine’s critical export routes and an emergency response line for life-threatening situations.

    Background information 

    Present in Ukraine since 2007, the EIB has been unwavering in its support for the country’s EU integration, which has become even more vital given Russia’s war against Ukraine. With a portfolio of signed projects valued at €7.3 billion, the Bank has invested in municipal infrastructure, energy, transport and small businesses, all with the goal of improving daily life, boosting economic growth and lending support for Ukraine’s resilience and reconstruction efforts. Since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the EIB has provided immediate relief, disbursing over €2 billion of financing for emergency repairs to the country’s ravaged infrastructure.

    Through the EIB’s EU4U Fund and the broader initiative, the Bank remains committed to stepping up its activities in line with the mandate given by EU leaders and in close cooperation with the European Commission, the European Parliament, EU Member States and international partners. The EIB also plays a key role in implementing the European Union’s €50 billion Ukraine Facility.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Monetary developments in the euro area: September 2024

    Source: European Central Bank

    25 October 2024

    Components of the broad monetary aggregate M3

    The annual growth rate of the broad monetary aggregate M3 increased to 3.2% in September 2024 from 2.9% in August, averaging 2.8% in the three months up to September. The components of M3 showed the following developments. The annual growth rate of the narrower aggregate M1, which comprises currency in circulation and overnight deposits, was -1.2% in September, compared with ‑2.1% in August. The annual growth rate of short-term deposits other than overnight deposits (M2-M1) decreased to 9.7% in September from 10.4% in August. The annual growth rate of marketable instruments (M3-M2) decreased to 21.8% in September from 22.3% in August.

    Chart 1

    Monetary aggregates

    (annual growth rates)

    Data for monetary aggregates

    Looking at the components’ contributions to the annual growth rate of M3, the narrower aggregate M1 contributed -0.8 percentage points (up from -1.4 percentage points in August), short-term deposits other than overnight deposits (M2-M1) contributed 2.8 percentage points (down from 2.9 percentage points) and marketable instruments (M3-M2) contributed 1.3 percentage points (as in the previous month).

    Among the holding sectors of deposits in M3, the annual growth rate of deposits placed by households increased to 2.8% in September from 2.3% in August, while the annual growth rate of deposits placed by non-financial corporations decreased to 1.6% in September from 1.8% in August. Finally, the annual growth rate of deposits placed by investment funds other than money market funds increased to 11.9% in September from 11.7% in August.

    Counterparts of the broad monetary aggregate M3

    The annual growth rate of M3 in September 2024, as a reflection of changes in the items on the monetary financial institution (MFI) consolidated balance sheet other than M3 (counterparts of M3), can be broken down as follows: net external assets contributed 3.9 percentage points (down from 4.0 percentage points in August), claims on the private sector contributed 1.1 percentage points (as in the previous month), claims on general government contributed -0.5 percentage points (down from -0.4 percentage points), longer-term liabilities contributed -1.8 percentage points (as in the previous month), and the remaining counterparts of M3 contributed 0.5 percentage points (up from 0.0 percentage points).

    Chart 2

    Contribution of the M3 counterparts to the annual growth rate of M3

    (percentage points)

    Data for contribution of the M3 counterparts to the annual growth rate of M3

    Claims on euro area residents

    The annual growth rate of total claims on euro area residents stood at 0.5% in September 2024, unchanged from the previous month. The annual growth rate of claims on general government stood at -1.2% in September, compared with -1.1% in August, while the annual growth rate of claims on the private sector stood at 1.2% in September, unchanged from the previous month.

    The annual growth rate of adjusted loans to the private sector (i.e. adjusted for loan transfers and notional cash pooling) stood at 1.6% in September, compared with 1.5% in August. Among the borrowing sectors, the annual growth rate of adjusted loans to households stood at 0.7% in September, compared with 0.6% in August, while the annual growth rate of adjusted loans to non-financial corporations increased to 1.1% in September from 0.8% in August.

    Chart 3

    Adjusted loans to the private sector

    (annual growth rates)

    Data for adjusted loans to the private sector

    Notes:

    • Data in this press release are adjusted for seasonal and end-of-month calendar effects, unless stated otherwise.
    • “Private sector” refers to euro area non-MFIs excluding general government.
    • Hyperlinks lead to data that may change with subsequent releases as a result of revisions. Figures shown in annex tables are a snapshot of the data as at the time of the current release.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Murdoch to Musk: how global media power has shifted from the moguls to the big tech bros

    ANALYSIS: By Matthew Ricketson, Deakin University and Andrew Dodd, The University of Melbourne

    Until recently, Elon Musk was just a wildly successful electric car tycoon and space pioneer. Sure, he was erratic and outspoken, but his global influence was contained and seemingly under control.

    But add the ownership of just one media platform, in the form of Twitter — now X — and the maverick has become a mogul, and the baton of the world’s biggest media bully has passed to a new player.

    What we can gauge from watching Musk’s stewardship of X is that he’s unlike former media moguls, making him potentially even more dangerous. He operates under his own rules, often beyond the reach of regulators. He has demonstrated he has no regard for those who try to rein him in.

    Under the old regime, press barons, from William Randolph Hearst to Rupert Murdoch, at least pretended they were committed to truth-telling journalism. Never mind that they were simultaneously deploying intimidation and bullying to achieve their commercial and political ends.

    Musk has no need, or desire, for such pretence because he’s not required to cloak anything he says in even a wafer-thin veil of journalism. Instead, his driving rationale is free speech, which is often code for don’t dare get in my way.

    This means we are in new territory, but it doesn’t mean what went before it is irrelevant.

    A big bucket of the proverbial
     If you want a comprehensive, up-to-date primer on the behaviour of media moguls over the past century-plus, Eric Beecher has just provided it in his book The Men Who Killed the News.

    Alongside accounts of people like Hearst in the United States and Lord Northcliffe in the United Kingdom, Beecher quotes the notorious example of what happened to John Major, the UK prime minister between 1990 and 1997, who baulked at following Murdoch’s resistance to strengthening ties with the European Union.

    In a conversation between Major and Kelvin MacKenzie, editor of Murdoch’s best-selling English tabloid newspaper, The Sun, the prime minister was bluntly told: “Well John, let me put it this way. I’ve got a large bucket of shit lying on my desk and tomorrow morning I’m going to pour it all over your head.”

    MacKenzie might have thought he was speaking truth to power, but in reality he was doing Murdoch’s bidding, and actually using his master’s voice, as Beecher confirms by recounting an anecdote from early in Murdoch’s career in Australia.

    In the 1960s, when Murdoch owned The Sunday Times in Perth, he met Lang Hancock (father of Gina Rinehart) to discuss potentially buying some mineral prospects together in Western Australia. The state government was opposed to the planned deal.

    Beecher cites Hancock’s biographer, Robert Duffield, who claimed Murdoch asked the mining magnate, “If I can get a certain politician to negotiate, will you sell me a piece of the cake?” Hancock said yes.

    Later that night, Murdoch called again to say the deal had been done. How, asked an incredulous Hancock. Murdoch replied: “Simple [. . . ] I told him: look you can have a headline a day or a bucket of shit every day. What’s it to be?”

    Between Murdoch in the 1960s and MacKenzie in the 1990s came Mario Puzo’s The Godfather with Don Corleone, aided by Luca Brasi holding a gun to a rival’s head, saying “either his brains or his signature would be on the contract”.

    Changing the rules of the game
     Media moguls use metaphorical bullets. Those relatively few people who do resist them, like Major, get the proverbial poured over their government. Headlines in The Sun following the Conservatives’ win in the 1992 election included: “Pigmy PM”, “Not up to the job” and “1001 reasons why you are such a plonker John”.

    If media moguls since Hearst and Northcliffe have tap-danced between producing journalism and pursuing their commercial and political aims, they have at least done the former, and some of it has been very good.

    The leaders of the social media behemoths, by contrast, don’t claim any Fourth Estate role. If anything, they seem to hold journalism with tongs as far from their face as possible.

    They do possess enormous wealth though. Apple, Microsoft, Google and Meta, formerly known as Facebook, are in the top 10 companies globally by market capitalisation. By comparison, News Corporation’s market capitalisation now ranks at 1173 in the world.

    Regulating the online environment may be difficult, as Australia discovered this year when it tried, and failed, to stop X hosting footage of the Wakeley Church stabbing attacks. But limiting transnational media platforms can be done, according to Robert Reich, a former Secretary of Labor in Bill Clinton’s government.

    Despite some early wins through Australia’s News Media Bargaining Code, big tech companies habitually resist regulation. They have used their substantial influence to stymie it wherever and whenever nation-states have sought to introduce it.

    Meta’s founder and chief executive, Mark Zuckerberg, has been known to go rogue, as he demonstrated in February 2021 when he protested against the bargaining code by unilaterally closing Facebook sites that carried news. Generally, though, his strategy has been to deploy standard public relations and lobbying methods.

    But his rival Musk uses his social media platform, X, like a wrecking ball.

    Musk is just about the first thing the average X user sees in their feed, whether they want to or not. He gives everyone the benefit of his thoughts, not to mention his thought bubbles. He proclaims himself a free-speech absolutist, but most of his pronouncements lean hard to the right, providing little space for alternative views.

    Some of his tweets have been inflammatory, such as him linking to an article promoting a conspiracy theory about the savage attack on Paul Pelosi, husband of the former US Speaker, Nancy Pelosi, or his tweet that “Civil war is inevitable” following riots that erupted recently in the UK.

    As the BBC reported, the riots occurred after the fatal stabbing of three girls in Southport. “The subsequent unrest in towns and cities across England and in parts of Northern Ireland has been fuelled by misinformation online, the far-right and anti-immigration sentiment”.

    Nor does Musk bother with niceties when people disagree with him. Late last year, advertisers considered boycotting X because they believed some of Musk’s posts were anti-Semitic. He told them during a live interview to “Go fuck yourself”.

    He has welcomed Donald Trump, the Republican Party’s presidential nominee, back onto X after Trump’s account was frozen over his comments surrounding the January 6, 2021, attack on the capitol. Since then both men have floated the idea of governing together if Trump wins a second term.

    Is the world better off with tech bros like Musk who demand unlimited freedom and assert their influence brazenly, or old-style media moguls who spin fine-sounding rhetoric about freedom of the press and exert influence under the cover of journalism?

    That’s a question for our times that we should probably begin grappling with.

    Dr Matthew Ricketson is professor of communication, Deakin University and Dr Andrew Dodd is director of the Centre for Advancing Journalism, The University of Melbourne. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons licence. Read the original article.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –