Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Northern Territory Police have arrested a 36-year-old man in relation to a domestic violence assault that occurred in Harts Range early this morning.
Around 4:40am, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre (JESCC) received a report that a 31-year-old woman had been assaulted by a man with a blunt weapon at a residence within the community.
Police responded and arrested the man without incident after he fled into nearby bushland.
The woman suffered significant injuries to her legs and is currently being conveyed to Alice Springs Hospital for treatment.
Investigations are ongoing and police urge anyone who has information to contact police on 131 444 and quote reference P24357246. You can also anonymously report through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.
Support services for those affected by domestic or family violence are available, including 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) and Lifeline (13 11 14).
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The following is issued on behalf of the Working Family and Student Financial Assistance Agency:
The Working Family and Student Financial Assistance Agency (WFSFAA) today (December 23) reminded student loan repayers that the five-year interest-free deferral of loan repayments will end on March 31, 2025, and interest accrual will resume from April 1. The first repayment due date falls on May 1 (for repayment by monthly instalments) or July 1, 2025 (for repayment by quarterly instalments).
The Student Finance Office (SFO) of the WFSFAA will issue notifications for resumption of loan repayments and the repayment schedules to student loan repayers in January 2025, followed by demand notes in mid-April and early June 2025 to repayers who repay by monthly and quarterly instalments respectively. Charging of the annual administrative fee will also resume for all loan repayment accounts under non-means-tested loan schemes. For details about the resumption of student loan repayments, please visit the WFSFAA website (www.wfsfaa.gov.hk/resumption_e.htm).
For the convenience of repayers, the SFO provides a variety of electronic repayment methods, including the Payment by Phone Service or Faster Payment System accessible from the “SFO E-link – My Bills” online platform, autopay service and internet banking payment services.
A spokesman for the WFSFAA reminded student loan repayers that interest expenses can be reduced if they apply for early lump sum or partial repayment in respect of any individual or all loan account(s). Such applications can be submitted via the “SFO E-link” online platform (www.wfsfaa.gov.hk/lspartial_e.htm).
Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements)
President Cyril Ramaphosa signs the Presidential Proclamation to bring the Basic Education Laws Amendment Act into operation from , 20 December 2024, at the Union Buildings in Pretoria.
The President has instructed the Minister of Basic Education to see to the full implementation of the BELA Act following the endorsement by leaders of the parties to the Government of National Unity.
The Basic Education Laws Amendment Act enacts measures that ensures the ability of schools to give effect to the promotion of all official languages.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Red flags lowered at Lido Beach and Casam Beach Red flags lowered at Lido Beach and Casam Beach ***********************************************
Attention TV/radio announcers:Please broadcast the following as soon as possible and repeat it at regular intervals: Here is an item of interest to swimmers. The Leisure and Cultural Services Department announced today (December 23) that since the water of Lido Beach and Casam Beach in Tsuen Wan District is now suitable for swimming, the red flags have been lowered. The red flags were hoisted at the beaches earlier after a red tide was found.
Headline: 【Global News】#PanasonicForTheWorld Campaign Creating Awareness Around Environment Social Governance (ESG) Efforts to Encourage a Sustainable Tomorrow
New Delhi, India – Panasonic Life Solutions India (PLSIND) – Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles lie at the heart of Panasonic’s mission, shaping the way we do business and leaving a meaningful legacy. The #PanasonicForTheWorld campaign intends to raise awareness about ESG by showcasing the breadth of efforts that Panasonic in India is making, thereby strengthening its commitment further to make a larger impact in this space and encouraging others to drive towards a sustainable future.
The campaign was kickstarted on social media channels of Panasonic Life Solutions India (PLSIND) on World Environment Day—it started with a focus on efforts around Environment, followed by Social and Governance.
Here are some highlights of the ESG efforts that were showcased as part of the #PanasonicForTheWorld campaign:
Environmental Commitments: Toward a Net Zero Future
As part of Panasonic Green Impact, Panasonic has undertaken a goal to reduce over 300 million tons of CO2 emissions by 2050. Initiatives such as the “Push for Change” campaign, powered by Generative AI, illustrated the dire consequences of inaction, encouraging individuals to pledge for sustainability. Each pledge led to tangible actions, such as planting trees. Further, group companies of Panasonic in India are making strides towards a greener tomorrow through campaigns such as Diwali Wali Safai, Tree plantation/eco-restoration projects, Harit Umang (Joy of Green) program, distribution of solar kits/lanterns, to name a few.
Social Commitments: Empowering the Next Generation
With an aim to nurture talent and create opportunities for underprivileged communities, initiatives like the Navjeevan School provide free education to over 110 underprivileged children, the Evening Learning Centre has helped 62 students prepare for 10th-grade exams. The Ratti Chhatr Scholarship has supported 240 students in completing their education at premier institutes like IITs. The campaign also focused on other projects that supported communities with better sanitation and hygiene.
Leading with Transparency
Panasonic is committed to high benchmarks in ethical business practices. The campaign focused on the following priorities:
Transparent, consent-based data collection.
Enhanced data security measures to prevent breaches.
Grievance redressal mechanisms to ensure employees and stakeholders have a voice.
These practices, to name a few, not only enhance trust but also inspire the broader industry to adopt similar standards.
#PanasonicForTheWorld campaign was well received and organically received over 3 million impressions, 7.3K engagements, and heartfelt positive reaction from more than 4,000 individuals. Further, by collaborating with relevant sustainability influencers, the campaign reached 110,323 people including key influential voices and key opinion leaders, igniting meaningful conversations and positive support for the efforts. Key media publications also covered this campaign.
Together, let us drive transformative change and shape a greener, more inclusive future for generations to come.
The enterprise ICT revenue opportunity in Vietnam is projected to increase at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16%, driven by the acceleration in enterprise digital transformation efforts, especially in banking, financial services and insurance (BFSI) segment – the largest end-use market for ICT in the country, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.
GlobalData’s Vietnam Enterprise ICT Country Intelligence Report shows that the ICT market size in Vietnam will increase from $15.7 billion in 2023 to $33 billion in 2028, in line with the positive ICT investment sentiment seen among the enterprises.
This is put to perspective by findings from the GlobalData’s 2024 ICT customer insight survey*, which reveals that 91.2% of respondents, who are the key ICT decision makers in their respective enterprises, have confirmed that there has been an increase in their enterprise ICT budgets in 2024 as compared to previous year.
Of the three IT infrastructure segments: hardware, software, and services, the services segment is expected to experience the highest cumulative revenue growth over the forecast period. This growth will be largely driven by the widespread enterprise adoption of cloud computing services, revenue for which is projected to increase at a CAGR of 24.8% during the forecast period.
Samrat Volam, Technology Analyst at GlobalData, says: “The growth of cloud computing services in the country is driven by the enterprises’ push for digital transformation and the growing demand for scalable, cost-effective IT solutions. Additionally, the need for reliable data storage and processing capabilities plays a significant role. The continuing shift towards flexible and remote working solutions further accelerates this growth.”
BFSI is the largest end-use vertical
GlobalData forecasts the BFSI sector represents the largest revenue contributor for Vietnam’s ICT market and will remain so through the forecast period, generating an average 10% of the total cumulative revenue for ICT market between 2023 and 2028.
Volam adds: “The BFSI sector in Vietnam is growing rapidly due to the modernization of financial services and the expansion of digital banking, driven by increased internet and smartphone penetration. Fintech innovations have introduced a variety of financial products, making them more accessible to consumers and businesses. Government initiatives, such as the “National Digital Transformation Program” and the 2021-2025 cashless payment project, are creating a supportive environment for digital transformation in the sector.
Volam concludes: “The government-owned National Innovation Center (NIC) plays a key role in advancing Vietnam’s ICT market by fostering an open ecosystem, encouraging the adoption of cutting-edge technologies, and driving digital transformation across various industries. By supporting local startups and attracting international investments, the NIC creates a dynamic environment conducive to growth. Additionally, the rapid growth of Vietnam’s IT sector and the rising need for robust cybersecurity measures are accelerating the adoption of advanced security solutions thereby driving the overall ICT market in the country.”
*GlobalData’s ICT Customer Insight Survey carried out during H1 2024 highlights survey responses related to ICT investment priorities and budget allocations by enterprises in Vietnam.
Personal accident and health (PA&H) insurance in Singapore is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.6% from SGD8.5 billion ($6.2 billion) in 2024 to SGD11.7 billion ($8.6 billion) in 2029, in terms of gross written premiums (GWP), forecasts GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.
GlobalData’s Insurance Database, reveals that the share of PA&H insurance in the total insurance industry grew from 12.6% in 2020 to an estimated 15.3% in 2024 and is projected to reach 17.3% by 2029. PA&H insurance is estimated to grow by 8.9% in 2024, propeled by high demand for private health insurance, as well as rising premium rates.
Aarti Sharma, Insurance Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Singapore’s PA&H insurance has experienced a strong growth in 2024, bolstered by heightened health and financial awareness that spurred demand for health insurance products. Demographic factors including an aging population, premium price adjustments in response to inflation, and resurgence in tourism have also supported the growth of PA&H insurance.”
High demand for integrated shield plans (IPs) and their accompanying riders offered by private insurers have supported the growth of PA&H insurance. MediShield is the national health insurance program, which includes MediShield Life – a government-managed basic health insurance plan with optional coverage provided by private insurers.
According to the Life Insurance Association of Singapore, approximately 71,000 people enrolled for new IP during H12024, bringing the total coverage to 2.9 million, which is about 71% of Singapore’s population. As a result, total new business premiums for individual health insurance increased by 7.1% in H1 2024, as compared to the same period in 2023.
Sharma continues: “The increase in premiums due to rising healthcare costs will also support the growth of PA&H insurance. In October 2024, Singapore’s Ministry of Health announced a 35% increase in MediShield premiums, effective from April 2025. The adjustments recommended by the MediShield Life Council include higher claim limits, expanded coverage for new treatments, and changes to deductibles and co-insurance. The premium hike will be implemented in phases, with a cap of 35% by March 2028.”
The changing demographic conditions in Singapore such as an aging population and growing affluent population will also support PA&H insurance growth. As per the Government of Singapore, nearly 20% of the total population was aged 65 and above as of June 2024, which is a significant contributor to the growth of PA&H insurance.
Enhanced tourism is also contributing to the expansion of PA&H insurance in Singapore. According to Statistics Singapore, the number of international tourists arriving in the country increased by 16.7% on a year-on-year basis in October 2024. Travel insurance plans, which cover personal accidents in addition to trip cancellations, baggage loss, and flight delays are aiding in the growth of PA&H insurance.
Sharma concludes: “The outlook for the PA&H insurance industry in Singapore appears positive, with opportunities for insurers to capitalize on the evolving market dynamics and increasing demand for comprehensive health coverage. Rising premium prices, growing tourism, as well as an aging demographic will support the growth of PA&H insurance in Singapore over the next five years.”
An international exhibition of intangible cultural heritage ran from Friday to Sunday at the Beijing Exhibition Center.
Co-organized by the Beijing International Art Fair Foundation and the China Youth Care Foundation, the event aimed to provide a platform to showcase the allure of diverse intangible cultural heritage. It had drawn intangible heritage inheritors from nearly 40 countries and regions, as well as art collectors.
The exhibition units focusing on traditional cuisine and traditional skills had attracted numerous visitors, featuring over 60 traditional skills spanning cuisines, music and dance, traditional Chinese medicine culture, various forms of embroidery, and Chinese martial arts, among other rich categories.
The event offered different activities, including exhibitions, cultural performances, forums, charitable auctions and sales. These activities raised public awareness of the protection and inheritance of intangible cultural heritage, driving innovation and development within the intangible cultural heritage arts industry.
Taking this exhibition as a new starting point, the Beijing International Art Fair Foundation plans to regularly host such events to awaken widespread public interest and love for intangible cultural heritage, promote their integration into modern life and showcase their unique charm through cross-cultural exchanges on an international scale.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
A message from Police Commissioner Michael Murphy APM
As Christmas morning 2024 draws near, our thoughts turn to a day etched into Darwin’s history: 50 years ago, the fury of Cyclone Tracy tore through this city, leaving devastation in its wake and testing the grit and determination of all Territorians.
On that fateful morning in 1974, Tracy battered our shores with winds so ferocious they forever changed the landscape – and the psyche – of our community. Yet, out of the wreckage, Darwin rose stronger, prouder, and more united than ever before.
That spirit of resilience still lives on today. In the face of any emergency – be it a cyclone, flood, bushfire, or other crisis – your Northern Territory Police Force stands ready and willing to step forward and protect all who call this place home. Through rigorous planning, training, and preparation, we remain unwavering in our commitment to the safety and wellbeing of Territorians.
This Christmas, as we pause to remember the hardships endured in 1974, we also celebrate the extraordinary unity that carried us through. It is that same sense of togetherness that will guide us whenever danger looms anywhere in the Territory. From the lessons of Cyclone Tracy, we know there is no storm we cannot weather if we stand shoulder to shoulder.
So, as you gather with loved ones this festive season, reflect on the legacy of a city rebuilt, and on the courage it took to get us here. And know this: the NT Police Force will be here to safeguard our community – ready to act swiftly and decisively, no matter what comes our way.
On Behalf of the Northern Territory Police Force, enjoy a safe and Merry Christmas and a happy New Year.
President Lai attends 2024 Presidential Hackathon awards ceremony 2024-12-22
On the afternoon of December 22, President Lai Ching-te attended the 2024 Presidential Hackathon awards ceremony. In remarks, President Lai praised the winning teams for proposing innovative solutions in the areas of health promotion and digital and net-zero development. The president also stated that in these challenging and rapidly changing times, the Presidential Hackathon exemplifies collaboration between the government and civil society, breaking through conceptual limitations to implement government innovations that respond to people’s needs and resolve various social problems. If we all work together, he said, the nation can look forward to a better, more advanced, and more prosperous future. Upon arrival, President Lai first took in presentations by outstanding domestic and international hackathon teams on their proposals, and then delivered remarks. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: With the support of former President Tsai Ing-wen, the Presidential Hackathon was officially launched in 2018 during my tenure as premier. I am delighted to see that it has become a thriving platform for cross-sector collaboration between the government and civil society. Now in its seventh year, the hackathon has since its inception selected a total of 35 domestic and 12 international outstanding teams. Their achievements are truly remarkable, and I want to thank everyone for their efforts. This year, the theme of the domestic track is “Aging Together in Good Health.” With Taiwan becoming a “super-aged society” and our National Health Insurance reaching its 30th anniversary next year, we hope that your collective wisdom will help us jointly achieve the vision of Healthy Taiwan. Let me congratulate the five outstanding teams in the domestic track. The first team is Drone for Life. Their aim is to use drones to set up a transportation network that covers remote areas to promote an equitable distribution of medical resources, which is extremely important for rural healthcare. The second team is Quiet Tracker. They want to improve noise management processes and create a noise suitability indicator map database for Taiwan, taking domestic quality of life to the next level. The third team is Greens Plus. Their goal is to develop an AI-enabled agricultural identification platform to alleviate water shortage concerns and improve the quantity and quality of agricultural products for farmers, treating every drop of water as a precious resource. The fourth team is CONNECT 10. Their proposal will enhance care services in remote areas to improve the quality of life for recipients, and I am confident that this will make the government’s Long-term Care 3.0 Plan more complete. And the fifth team is Tranquil Aging Master. They want to use a communication platform centered on the elderly to connect care teams, seniors, and their families to create a new model of holistic health care. If this proposal can be implemented, human dignity will be given greater importance, which is good for everyone. The theme of this year’s international track is Digital and Green: Next-Generation Public Infrastructure. By integrating digital technology with net-zero, sustainable solutions, we want to promote the digital and net-zero twin transformation, lay a more sustainable foundation for Taiwan’s future generations, and achieve the goal of a smarter, more sustainable new Taiwan. I was pleased to see that this year’s international track received a record-breaking 77 team proposals. Here, I would like to congratulate the two winning international outstanding teams. The first team is GreenhopeBCTW. With members from the United States and Taiwan, the group hopes to use personal carbon wallets to turn environmental actions into assets and encourage more people to cut emissions. The second team is MooApps, whose three members are all from Indonesia. They have proposed an innovative digital monitoring system to help livestock farmers improve animal health and reduce herd mortality rates. I am confident that having a constant understanding of physical health conditions – not just for animals but for people as well – can be a powerful aid to individual health. Once again, I would like to thank all the outstanding teams for their hard work in proposing innovative solutions in the areas of health promotion and digital and net-zero development. In these challenging and rapidly changing times, the Presidential Hackathon exemplifies collaboration between the government and civil society, breaking through conceptual limitations to implement government innovations that respond to people’s needs and resolve various social problems. In closing, congratulations once more to all the outstanding teams. In your contributions, I can see the limitless potential for Taiwan. If we all work together, our nation can look forward to a better, more advanced, and more prosperous future. President Lai then presented trophies and certificates to the winning teams in both the domestic and international tracks. Also in attendance at the event were American Institute in Taiwan Taipei Office Director Raymond Greene and Indonesian Economic and Trade Office to Taipei Representative Arif Sulistiyo.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Labour Department investigates fatal work accident in Sheung Shui Labour Department investigates fatal work accident in Sheung Shui *****************************************************************
The Labour Department (LD) is investigating a fatal work accident that happened in Sheung Shui this morning (December 23) in which a man died. The LD immediately deployed staff to the scene upon receiving a report of the accident, and is now conducting an investigation to look into its cause.
Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has revealed how arms and ammunition used to conduct the 1987 military coup were secretly brought into Fiji on board a naval survey ship.
Speaking at the commissioning of a new research vessel for the Lands and Mineral Resources Ministry on Friday, Rabuka described the strategic measures taken to ensure the weapons reached Fiji undetected.
“I realised that we didn’t have enough weapons and ammunition in Fiji to do what I wanted to do. So I sent a very quick message to the captain who was there to pick up the ship and surprised him by asking that, get that ship commissioned in Singapore before you sail back to Fiji.”
Rabuka explained the decision, saying the commissioning had allowed the ship to fly a naval flag, ensuring it would avoid inspection at international ports.
He said the ship’s captain was instructed to load arms and ammunition en route which were successfully brought back to Fiji.
The Prime Minister said the measures were necessary at the time to achieve what needed to be done.
Rare glimpse of tactics His remarks offered a rare glimpse into the behind-the-scenes tactics of 1987, highlighting the extent of planning and resourcefulness involved.
Rabuka’s comments were made during the launch of a state-of-the-art research vessel which will serve as a floating laboratory for marine geological studies and coastal surveys.
The vessel is equipped with advanced tools to map the ocean floor, study tectonic activity and support communities affected by climate change.
The Prime Minister said the new vessel marked a significant step in understanding Fiji’s marine ecosystem.
He also spoke about the importance of integrating scientific research with traditional knowledge to address critical issues such as climate change and sustainable resource management.
The PM said there was a need for informed planning to prevent disasters, referencing the recent earthquake in Vanuatu.
Rabuka said early geological surveys could have guided city planners and engineers in designing structures that mitigate damage from such events.
The new vessel is expected to provide critical insights into the ocean’s mysteries while contributing to Fiji’s resilience against climate-related challenges.
The celebration was led by the Commander of the Fiji Navy, Humphrey Tawake, with senior officers. It was marked by a march by officers and the RFMF band. adding a ceremonial and heartfelt touch to the happy occasion.
On behalf of the commander of the RFMF who is away on official leave, Commander Tawake extended birthday wishes to the Head of State.
President Lalabalavu praised the dedication of the RFMF in upholding law and order.
“The strength of our nation lies in our collective efforts, and since assuming office, I have witnessed the vital role you play in ensuring peace and stability,” he said.
U.S. President-elect Donald Trump on Sunday suggested that he may allow TikTok to continue operations in the United States.
At an event hosted by the conservative organization Turning Point USA in Phoenix, Arizona, Trump said that the popular video-sharing app may have helped reach some key voters in the presidential election, and expressed the possibility of keeping TikTok around “for a little while.”
“We did go on TikTok, and we had a great response. We had billions and billions of views,” said the president-elect, adding that he was shown a chart highlighting the views his campaign had received on the app.
On Wednesday, the U.S. Supreme Court agreed to review a request from TikTok and its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, to block a law that would require the sale of the popular video-sharing app by Jan. 19, or face a ban on national security grounds.
The nation’s top court is set to hear arguments on Jan. 10 regarding whether the law unconstitutionally limits freedom of speech, in breach of the First Amendment.
The court’s ruling was issued two days after TikTok’s petition for an injunction against the law. TikTok argued that the potential ban would shutter one of America’s most popular speech platforms the day before a presidential inauguration, and “silence the speech of Applicants and the many Americans who use the platform to communicate about politics, commerce, arts, and other matters of public concern.”
In April, U.S. President Joe Biden enacted the law that gives ByteDance only 270 days to sell TikTok, citing unfounded national security concerns. If the company fails to comply, the law will require app store operators such as Apple and Google to remove TikTok from their platforms.
In May, TikTok sued the U.S. government to block the potential ban, which has drawn widespread criticism.
In early December, the U.S. Court of Appeals in Washington, D.C. dismissed TikTok’s claim that the ban is unconstitutional.
This photo shows a view in the Qingcheng Palace complex in Beijing, capital of China, Dec. 21, 2024. (Xinhua/Chen Zhonghao)
The Qingcheng Palace complex, located within the Altar of the God of Agriculture, opened to the public for the first time on Saturday.
It is the second area within the altar — part of the “Beijing Central Axis: A Building Ensemble Exhibiting the Ideal Order of the Chinese Capital”, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage List — to open to the public this year, following the Divine Granary on April 18.
First constructed in 1458 during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), the palace was initially named Zhaigong (Temple of Abstinence), where emperors conducted ritualistic fasting before worshipping the God of Agriculture.
In 1755, during the reign of Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), the complex was refurbished into its current layout. It was renamed Qingcheng Palace and served as a celebratory venue where emperors convened with officials after worship ceremonies.
“The Qingcheng Palace is the highest-ranking complex within the Altar of the God of Agriculture,” said Xue Jian, director of the Beijing Ancient Architecture Museum, which manages the altar.
“It features a four-sided hipped roof, the highest-grade form in imperial architecture,” he added. “The roof uses green glazed tiles, second only to yellow glazed tiles in the hierarchy. The dragon patterns painted below the eaves further signify the structure’s elevated status.”
According to Xue, the complex only recently opened because the area has become a residential neighborhood. Conservation efforts for the Beijing Central Axis, especially since 2023, have helped relocate residents, demolish non-heritage buildings and restore the site, allowing the complex to be brought back into public view.
Visitors to the Qingcheng Palace can enjoy an exhibition showcasing the preservation efforts of the Beijing Central Axis, which led to its World Heritage List inscription on July 27. Additional exhibitions highlight the history and architectural features of the palace and include a digital display introducing the rituals of worshipping the God of Agriculture.
As the Qingcheng Palace is located in the outer area of the altar and is temporarily not connected to the inner area where the Beijing Ancient Architecture Museum is situated, visitors with museum tickets can access the Qingcheng Palace complex following a separate ticket check.
Zhang Lixin, director of the Beijing Municipal Cultural Heritage Bureau, stated that the palace’s opening marks a new milestone in the altar’s history. The Beijing government has mandated that heritage sites along the Beijing Central Axis make maximum efforts to open to the public, enabling more people to experience the beauty of ancient architecture and traditional Chinese culture.
“Now, the palace serves as a demonstration of the preservation achievements of the Beijing Central Axis, with active participation and support from the public,” Zhang said. “In the future, the palace will become a cultural reception hall for Beijing, fostering cultural exchange and mutual learning.”
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
China has made significant strides in enhancing the ecological environment of the Yellow River Basin, according to Li Hongzhong, vice-chairman of the National People’s Congress Standing Committee.
Reporting to the country’s top legislature on Sunday, Li highlighted key achievements under the Yellow River Protection Law, which took effect on April 1, 2023, following its adoption in October 2022.
For the second consecutive year, the quality of the Yellow River’s main course has met Grade II standards, the vice-chairman said. China uses a five-tier quality system for surface water, with Grade I being the highest.
Li also pointed to a significant increase in vegetation coverage in the basin, with 84.9 percent of the area showing positive trends. Over the past two decades, the basin’s “green line” has shifted westward by about 300 kilometers.
In 2023, nine provincial-level regions along the Yellow River completed afforestation efforts covering 1.7 million hectares. Additionally, around 16,000 square kilometers of areas affected by water loss and soil erosion were treated.
Progress has also been made in pollution control, water conservation and energy transition. For example, in a campaign to address violations involving solid waste, nearly 118 million metric tons of trash were cleared from 4,084 locations.
Li noted that water consumption per unit of GDP and unit of industrial value added in the nine provincial regions of the basin decreased by 22.8 percent and 40.9 percent, respectively, from 2018 to 2023.
Thanks to ongoing efforts to promote the construction of wind and solar energy bases in the desertification-prone river’s upper reaches, non-fossil energy generation in these areas now accounts for more than 48 percent of the total installed capacity.
Despite these advancements, Li acknowledged challenges remaining in further strengthening conservation efforts in the basin.
“The overall coordination mechanism for governance in the basin still needs improvement,” he said, emphasizing the complexity of managing the Yellow River’s upper and lower reaches, left and right banks, and main and tributary streams.
Li noted that while some inter-regional joint prevention and control projects have been signed, they lack effective coordination, leading to inadequate implementation. He also pointed to deficiencies in monitoring and information-sharing systems across the basin.
“Inconsistencies in basic monitoring data standards in certain regions are impeding collaborative information exchange,” he stated.
To address these challenges, Li called for the rapid establishment of a comprehensive, intelligent information-sharing platform that spans various government levels throughout the basin.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
The Altay-Hemu Highway in northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region has drawn an increasing number of road trips with its breathtaking ice and snow scenery. It connects Altay City with the Kanas Scenic Area and Hemu Village. The highway was fully opened this September, helping form a major tourist transport loop between the two places.
World leaders have gathered for the World Economic Forum annual meeting in Davos, Switzerland. One of their main goals is to align their responses to geopolitical shocks such as floods and wildfires that hamper trade, investment and more.
The meeting also supposedly aims to find ways to stimulate economic growth to improve living standards, foster a just and inclusive energy transition, achieve security and cooperation amidst conflicts, and accelerate the economic response to an “intelligent age” of AI.
But, a new report from Oxfam International, published on the first day of the meeting in Davos, highlights how global inequality is more rampant than ever. The report, written by a team of policy campaigners and inequality research advisers outlines how billionaire wealth rose sharply in 2024 worldwide, with the pace of the increase three times faster than in 2023.
The World Economic Forum lists extreme weather as one of the top global risks. But, as world leaders convene in Davos, the high-profile anti-climate stances of some of them stand in stark opposition to any meaningful progress for climate action.
The Oxfam report highlights the exploitation involved in creating and sustaining wealth and outlines how, as inequalities deepen, vulnerable communities are disproportionately affected. The most vulnerable – overwhelmingly women, people of colour, Indigenous groups and low-wage workers – are caught in a cycle of insufficient wages, limited services and minimal political influence.
The report also highlights how wealth inequality is often intertwined with historical processes of extraction — both within countries (for example, through weak labour protections that lowers wages) and between countries (through trade, finance, and resource exploitation).
The climate connection
Other research has also shown how inequality is deeply interwoven with climate breakdown. Each crisis exacerbates the other. Historically, the richest nations – and within them, the wealthiest people – have contributed the most to greenhouse gas emissions.
Meanwhile, lower-income countries that bear little responsibility for global heating suffer the most. These countries, already burdened by debt and systemic inequality, have fewer resources to protect communities from extreme weather, crop failures and infrastructure damage. This makes day-to-day survival a struggle for billions.
When climate change exacerbates existing inequalities, marginalised communities are denied basic human rights. For instance, droughts reduce crop yields and deplete water sources, so more people — often women and children — have to ration supplies or go without. This directly infringes on their rights to food, safe drinking water and sanitation.
In these ways, without climate action, the warming planet threatens to widen inequalities by affecting the poorest people most severely. A 2020 World Bank report estimated that an additional 68 to 135 million people could be pushed into poverty by 2030 because of climate change. French researchers identified that climate change also slows down the economic catch-up of poorer countries.
The reality on the ground is bleak. Floods in Pakistan displaced thousands and affected more than 33 million people in 2023. That’s ten times more than the total population of Los Angeles where, when the recent wildfires struck, 170,000 people had to be evacuated.
Around the world, climate movements continue. Law suits that demand climate action are transforming governance. High-level negotiations like the UN’s annual climate summit carry on seeking progress, although the processes could be improved to accelerate change.
What can Davos do? World leaders need to look at how wealth and power can be redistributed (reparations for climate damages is one way to do this) and low-income, climate-vulnerable nations can be better represented in global decision-making.
Without this kind of change, there’s a risk climate action will perpetuate the same structural imbalances that first enabled environmental exploitation. Only by tackling both climate injustice and economic inequality together can the world prevent further climate disasters and ensure a more equitable future.
Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
One million-kilowatt integrated solar-thermal project begins operation in Xinjiang
A one million-kilowatt integrated solar-thermal and photovoltaic comprehensive energy demonstration project has officially connected to the grid for power generation in northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. The project features a 100,000-kilowatt “Linear Fresnel” solar-thermal storage power station and a 900,000-kilowatt photovoltaic power station.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, Dec. 23 — China’s central bank conducted 109.6 billion yuan (about 15.25 billion U.S. dollars) of seven-day reverse repos at an interest rate of 1.5 percent on Monday.
The move aims to keep liquidity in the banking system adequate at a reasonable level in the banking system, the central bank said.
A reverse repo is a process in which the central bank purchases securities from commercial banks through bidding, with an agreement to sell them back in the future.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Traditional Chinese art of Cangxian Lion Dance well passed on in Hebei
Updated: December 23, 2024 13:53Xinhua
Students interact with a lion dancer from Cangxian County at a primary school in Cangzhou City, north China’s Hebei Province, Dec. 20, 2024. Cangxian Lion Dance is a unique folk art with a long history, which was inscribed into the national intangible cultural heritage list in 2008. Thanks to the policy and funding support of local authorities in recent years, the traditional art has been well passed on. There are nine registered lion dance teams and nearly 1,000 performers in the county. [Photo/Xinhua]Trainees practice lion dance at a training base in Cangxian County, north China’s Hebei Province, Dec. 20, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]A student interacts with a lion dancer from Cangxian County at a primary school in Cangzhou City, north China’s Hebei Province, Dec. 20, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]A trainee practices lion dance at a training base in Cangxian County, north China’s Hebei Province, Dec. 20, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]A teacher instructs trainees to practice lion dance at a training base in Cangxian County, north China’s Hebei Province, Dec. 20, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]A teacher instructs trainees to practice lion dance at a training base in Cangxian County, north China’s Hebei Province, Dec. 20, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]In this aerial drone photo, trainees practice lion dance at a training base in Cangxian County, north China’s Hebei Province, Dec. 20, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Trainees practice lion dance at a training base in Cangxian County, north China’s Hebei Province, Dec. 20, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]A lion dancer from Cangxian County instructs students to practice lion dance at a primary school in Cangzhou City, north China’s Hebei Province, Dec. 20, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
Urbo bankas UAB (hereinafter – “the Bank”), company code 112027077, address: Konstitucijos pr.18B, Vilnius.
The Bank earned a net profit of EUR 6.5 million in the first three quarters of this year. The loan portfolio grew by 14.6% to EUR 364 million during the period, while the bank’s assets at the end of September stood at EUR 577 million, or 15.6% more than a year earlier (EUR 499 million).
At the end of the third quarter, the amount of deposits held with the Bank reached EUR 489 million, 16.2% more than a year earlier. Meanwhile, net interest income increased by almost a tenth (EUR 1.5 million) to EUR 16.7 million.
In the third quarter of this year, net fee and commission income of the Bank decreased by 30.4% (EUR 1.2 million) to EUR 2.7 million compared to the same period of 2023. In the comparative period, the net result on foreign currency transactions decreased by EUR 0.8 million (30.4%) to EUR 1.8 million, due to the contraction of the net currency market in Lithuania.
The Bank’s shareholders’ equity stood at EUR 63 million on 30 September this year. Compared to the end of September 2023, it has increased by 14.1%, from EUR 55 million. At the end of September, the Bank had 285 employees, and its customer service network consisted of 25 territorial branches.
For more information please contact: Julius Ivaška, Head of Business Division, tel. +370 601 04 453, e-mail media@urbo.lt
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
LCSD reminds public to keep venues clean during Christmas LCSD reminds public to keep venues clean during Christmas *********************************************************
The Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) today (December 23) appealed to members of the public to keep venues clean and mind their safety while celebrating Christmas. The LCSD will work with other government departments to implement a series of measures over Christmas (December 24 to 26) to maintain cleanliness and safety at LCSD venues, especially at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre (HKCC) Piazza, Salisbury Garden, the Avenue of Stars, Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, Middle Road Children’s Playground, Tsim Sha Tsui East Waterfront Podium Garden and Urban Council Centenary Garden along the Kowloon waterfront, where large crowds are expected. An LCSD spokesman said, “In crowded areas, people should remain calm and take care of their own safety.” The public announcement systems at the HKCC will also broadcast anti-littering and crowd management messages in Cantonese, Putonghua and English on a regular basis during the holidays. Crowd control measures will be implemented at the HKCC Piazza, Salisbury Garden, the Avenue of Stars and the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade based on actual conditions. Members of the public are advised to pay attention to the announcements, follow the instructions of the duty personnel and mind their safety.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Thirty-nine convictions were recorded in November 2024 for breaches of legislation enforced by the Environmental Protection Department.
Two of the convictions were under the Air Pollution Control Ordinance, two were under the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance, nine were under the Noise Control Ordinance, 12 were under the Public Cleansing and Prevention of Nuisances Regulation, one was under the Product Eco-responsibility Ordinance, and 13 were under the Waste Disposal Ordinance.
A company was fined $15,000, which was the heaviest fine in November, for failing to comply with an air pollution abatement notice.
On a review of current and evolving liquidity conditions, it has been decided to conduct a second Variable Rate Repo (VRR) auction on December 23, 2024, Monday, as under:
The Government of Canada has agreed to increase the Government of Yukon’s borrowing limit from $800 million to $1.2 billion, providing the territory with greater financial flexibility and long-term financial sustainability.
The Yukon is a growing and dynamic territory, with an increasing population, expanding communities and increasing demands for essential services. The Government of Yukon needs the flexibility provided by borrowing to support the sustainable development and growth that Yukoners require.
To date, the government has operated under a strong financial plan that did not require significant borrowing. Recent unforeseen challenges – such as urgent environmental responses, pressures on the health care system and the continued need to address issues related to climate change – have highlighted the value of increased flexibility to manage cashflows throughout the year and of using tools beyond the government’s line of credit.
Borrowing remains one of the tools available to the government to help meet immediate financial obligations while having the flexibility to continue to invest in essential infrastructure and services that benefit the entire Yukon and address critical responses that are becoming more common.
The Yukon remains in a strong financial position, having recently reaffirmed its “AA Stable” credit rating from S&P Global Ratings and maintaining a low net debt-to-GDP ratio, which is among the lowest in Canada.
Issued for Onkaparinga Hills near Woodcroft in the southern Mount Lofty Ranges.
Warning level Watch and Act – Leave Now
Action Leave now. This bushfire may threaten your safety. Check that the path is clear and go to a safer place. Do not enter this area as conditions are dangerous.
The ONKAPARINGA HILLS bushfire is uncontrolled. This scrub fire is burning in a North easterly direction towards Education Road, Armata Road, Humber Court, Rudge Close, Forest Drive, Vaucluse Drive, Evandale Circuit and Mcharg Road, Chandlers Hill . Conditions are continually changing.
For updates, check the CFS website at cfs.sa.gov.au or phone the Information Hotline on 1800 362 361.
As we embrace this holiday season, I want to take a moment to extend my warmest wishes to each and every one of you. This is a time for reflection and gratitude, and I am truly thankful for the dedication and hard work you all contribute to the IAM.
We have faced numerous challenges, yet we stand united, stronger than ever. Our achievements over the past year remind us of the power of solidarity and the importance of supporting one another.
As we look back on our recent convention, there is a wealth of accomplishments to celebrate—the significant milestones we achieved together and the spirited discussions that sparked innovative resolutions and amendments to our Constitution. Each deliberate step we take in welcoming new members into our fold, along with our commitment to advocating for the well-being of our existing members through effective bargaining and dedicated services, is paving the way for a brighter future. Together, we are not only strengthening our union but also enhancing the lives of the communities we are proud to serve.
As we think about the future, I am filled with hope and excitement for what lies ahead for the IAM. We will continue to stand up for those who need our support and champion the rights of working families.
During this season of celebration, let’s keep in mind those who will be working while many of us are with our loved ones. Your sacrifices are deeply appreciated, ensuring that countless others can enjoy this special time.
On behalf of the IAM Executive Council, I wish you and your families a warm, joyful, and safe holiday season. May this time bring you peace and happiness.