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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Pål Jonson attends NATO defence ministers meeting in Brussels

    Source: Government of Sweden

    Pål Jonson attends NATO defence ministers meeting in Brussels – Government.se

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    Press release from Ministry of Defence

    Published

    On 17–18 October, Sweden’s Minister for Defence Pål Jonson will meet with his colleagues from other NATO member countries in Brussels. Part of the meeting will also be attended for the first time by the defence ministers of Australia, Japan, South Korea and New Zealand – NATO’s partners known as the Indo-Pacific Four (IP4).

    The agenda includes discussions on continuing and deepening NATO’s cooperation with the IP4.

    At the meeting in Brussels, the NATO defence ministers will also discuss deeper cooperation between NATO and the EU, and reinforcements of NATO’s deterrence and defence capabilities.

    They will also discuss continued support to Ukraine and the support being provided to Russia by Iran, China and North Korea.

    This is the first NATO ministerial meeting led by new Secretary General Mark Rutte. 

    Press contact

    More about the Meeting of NATO Defence Ministers on 17–18 October

    More information about the Meeting of Defence Ministers on 17–18 October is available on the NATO website. Images and video material from the meeting will also be published on the website as they become available.

    About the North Atlantic Council (NAC)

    The North Atlantic Council (NAC) is the principal political decision-making body within NATO. For the NAC’s day-to-day work, member countries are represented by their NATO Ambassadors.

    The NAC meets a number of times a year at the levels of defence ministers, foreign ministers and heads of state and government. Normally, one NATO summit, two meetings of NATO Ministers of Foreign Affairs and three meetings of NATO Defence Ministers are held each year. The NATO Secretary General chairs the NAC.

    About Sweden in NATO

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Central China’s Henan to host Intl Shaolin Wushu Festival

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    The 13th Zhengzhou International Shaolin Wushu Festival will take place Oct. 17-22 in Zhengzhou, the capital of central China’s Henan province.

    Organized by the Henan provincial government and co-hosted by the province’s sports administration and Zhengzhou city government, the event aims to promote Shaolin Wushu culture and foster international exchanges.

    Opening ceremony of the previous Zhengzhou International Shaolin Wushu Festival. [File photo by Li Bo/ Xinhua News]

    The festival will feature traditional Shaolin Wushu competitions and the Wushu Duanwei Evaluation for Overseas Personnel, alongside new events, including a collective kung fu performance, an international fight competition, a U.S.-China youth training camp, a kung fu adventure, and a Cambodian-Chinese boxing showcase.

    Zhao Xuedong, deputy secretary-general of the Henan provincial government, said 2,560 athletes from 56 countries and regions have signed up for the festival. The event will host Wushu exchanges between China and the U.S., as well as China and Cambodia. Officials from the International Wushu Federation, the Intangible Cultural Heritage Fund, resident ambassadors and international guests will attend related activities.

    The festival will build a bridge for cultural integration and mutual learning between China and foreign countries, as well as strengthen exchanges and cooperation among Belt and Road countries, according to Zhao.

    The festival adheres to the principle of “meeting friends through Shaolin Wushu and progressing together.” Competitions will include designated routines, nationally recognized martial arts routines and various styles and forms.

    Organizers aim to nurture Shaolin Wushu and expand its cultural impact. They will arrange visits to cultural tourism projects during the festival to promote the integration of culture, tourism and sports in Henan.

    Zhao Hengkang, deputy secretary-general of the Henan provincial government, said the six-day festival includes five categories, six major events and 315 sub-events, with participants ranging from 4 to 82 years old.

    The opening ceremony will feature 30,000 young martial artists showcasing Shaolin Wushu along a 13-kilometer route from the Shaolin Temple on Mount Song to the opening venue. Audiences worldwide can enjoy this cultural feast through television and online broadcasts.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Visual Arts Centre to showcase works by Art Specialist Course graduates (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Hong Kong Visual Arts Centre (vA!) of the Art Promotion Office is staging the “Art Specialist Course 2023-24 Graduation Exhibition” from today (October 17) to November 4. The exhibition showcases the learning achievements by 22 graduates of the art specialist course, with a view to sharing the joy of artistic creation with the public. Admission to the exhibition is free.
          
         Under the theme of “Resonance”, participating students have utilised a variety of media, such as ceramic, wood, ink and creative expression techniques, to connect with the emotions of the visitors through their artworks. They invite visitors to seek resonance from their experiences and draw inspiration and insights from the art.
              
         vA! strives to promote art learning by organising diverse activities, enabling individuals from different walks of life to explore art and cultivate creativity. The new round of “vA!cademy” will be launched, including the popular Art Specialist Course and Art Advanced Course. The course content of the 2024-25 Art Specialist Course will cover “Sculpture, Body and Space” as well as “Drawing, Painting and Printmaking”, while that of the 2024-25 Art Advanced Course will cover “Ceramics” and “Landscapes, Flowers and Birds”. Both courses will be taught by a group of professional and experienced artists. Course applications are open from now until November 1.

         For details of the course application and the exhibition, please visit the website of vA! http://www.apo.hk/en/web/apo/va_projects_and_programmes.html or call 2521 3008 for enquiry.               

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: ‘Splendid Aqua’ exhibition showcases cross-culture exchange via watercolor art

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    An exhibition featuring 40 watercolor paintings by prominent Chinese artists opened on Wednesday night at the Chinese Culture Center in Berlin.

    Titled “Splendid Aqua – International Watercolor Art Exchange Exhibition,” the event runs until Oct. 24 and aims to foster cross-cultural communication between Chinese and German audiences.

    The exhibition highlights works by artists Li Qing, Wan Ye, and Shi Qian, covering diverse subjects such as landscapes, still life, and portraiture.

    During the opening ceremony, Li Qing, director of Liu Haisu Art Museum (Changzhou), emphasized the significance of Chinese watercolor painting as a blend of Western techniques and Chinese artistic expression. He noted that the art form merges “Western art’s delicate depiction of form and light with the lyrical and expressive style of Chinese painting.”

    Sun Qinghang, director of the Chinese Cultural Center in Berlin, highlighted watercolor’s role as a medium for cultural exchange, remarking on its 300-year development since its introduction from Europe to China. She expressed hopes that the exhibition would strengthen international collaboration and deepen the bond between artists from both nations.

    Following the opening, Shi Qian, vice dean of the School of Fine Arts at Nanjing Normal University, delivered a lecture on communication between Chinese and Western watercolor art in history.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Expo highlights intangible cultural heritage

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    The eighth China Intangible Cultural Heritage Expo packed in a big audience on its opening day in Jinan, East China’s Shandong province, on Thursday.

    The expo, running until Monday, is hosted by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and undertaken by the Shandong Culture and Tourism Department and the Jinan government.

    The expo is themed on protection, inheritance and innovation, highlighting the integration of intangible culture with modern life.

    Major sectors showcase craftsmanship, innovation, rural development and creative arts in related fields.

    A total of 211 intangible cultural heritage items are on display and more than 100 inheritors are present to interact with attendees.

    The expo aims to showcase the achievements of China’s intangible cultural heritage protection over the past 20 years since it joined the UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage.

    Additionally, performances and workshops are arranged for the public to appreciate the charm of cultural heritage. Related brand launches and business matchmaking events are also taking place to boost exchange and cooperation.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Opening address by President Viola Amherd at the Ukraine Mine Action Conference UMAC2024

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport

    Bern, 17.10.2024 – Opening address by President Viola Amherd, head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS), at the Ukraine Mine Action Conference UMAC2024, Lausanne, Thursday, 17 October 2024.

    Check against delivery

    Prime Minister,
    Excellencies,
    Ladies and Gentlemen,

    It is an honour to welcome you, Mr Prime Minister, to Lausanne today, and to open this conference with you.

    The next two days will be dedicated to one of the most pressing humanitarian issues of our time: humanitarian demining.

    Mines, cluster munitions and explosive remnants of war have a devastating impact: they claim thousands of lives every year, make land impassable, resources inaccessible and hamper economic development.

    Every improvised explosive device that we defuse is a step towards security, progress and a better life – this is the conviction that lies at the heart of our efforts.

    Today, humanitarian mine action is faced with major challenges.

    The Ottawa Convention bans anti-personnel mines, because they kill and maim indiscriminately. While the initial success of the Convention inspired optimism, in recent years this has given way to a certain disillusionment.

    Since 2014, the number of victims has started to rise again. Ongoing armed conflicts, such as Russia’s military aggression in Ukraine, bring new contamination from mines and other weapons. The effects of urban warfare and the use of improvised explosive devices are particularly severe.

    These developments reflect the global situation, which is marked by growing geopolitical tensions.

    This makes it all the more important, especially in view of the rising number of victims, to continue our efforts to improve the protection of the civilian population from the dangers of mines and other remnants of war.

    Humanitarian demining is not only a matter of safety, but also a precondition for recovery, in particular for the resumption of agricultural production and the education of children.

    I call on all states to join the Ottawa Convention and the Convention on Cluster Munitions, and to support them to the best of their abilities.
     
    Excellencies,
    Ladies and Gentlemen,

    Four months ago, the international community met on the Bürgenstock for the Summit on Peace in Ukraine. At the opening, I spoke of our goal to set in motion a process that will lead to a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.

    The current conference follows on from this, because living in peace also means being free from the fear of mines and remnants of war.
    Switzerland has been committed to humanitarian demining for over 30 years. We support projects in affected countries and deploy specialist military personnel.

    We are also committed to the diplomatic, legal and practical implementation of the relevant conventions around the world.

    We are determined to continue to do our part in Ukraine as well.

    Almost a quarter of Ukraine’s territory is contaminated with explosive ordnance.
    Last year we decided to make one hundred million francs available for humanitarian mine action in Ukraine (from 2024 to 2027).

    The Geneva International Centre for Humanitarian Demining (GICHD) and the Fondation suisse de déminage (FSD) are primarily responsible for implementing this programme.

    Projects will be developed in close cooperation with Ukraine’s civilian authorities. They will include mine and explosive ordnance clearance, the promotion of standards and quality in mine clearance, training, and operational and material support.

    Last year, provided the State Emergency Service of Ukraine (SESU) with a remote-controlled demining machine from the Digger Foundation.

    This year, we will deliver three more machines from Global Clearance Solutions and provide local training and support.

    This will enable Ukraine to carry out effective and safe demining operations independently in the future.

    Excellencies,
    Ladies and gentlemen,

    For today’s Ukraine Mine Action Conference here in Lausanne, we have set ourselves the following goals:

    –    We aim to raise awareness of the importance of humanitarian mine action in Ukraine and worldwide.
    –    Stimulate further support going forward, based on the Ukrainian Mine Action Strategy, which provides guidance for current and future partnerships.
    –    And showcase innovative solutions that will make mine clearance safer and more effective worldwide.

    Three thematic areas were defined in the run-up to the Ukraine Mine Action Conference: people, partners and progress.

    First, the people: In the face of the immense suffering and lasting damage caused by mines, cluster munitions and explosive remnants of war, we must act decisively.

    Contamination in conflict areas also affects many countries not involved in the conflict. For example, food prices are rising in many countries because Ukrainian land cannot be used safely and productively.

    Then, the partners: Our aim is for other countries that are also affected by mines or that are providing aid to share their experiences with Ukraine and its partners.
     
    For mine action to be effective, governments, international organisations, NGOs, the private sector and the scientific community must work closely together – and they are all gathered here in Lausanne today.

    And finally, progress: We must work continuously to make humanitarian mine action safer and more effective.

    We need to find innovative solutions, for example by combining the use of artificial intelligence, powerful drones and robots.
     
    The resources we use to clear mines in Ukraine today are also an investment to improve humanitarian demining globally in the future.

    Excellences,
    Ladies and gentlemen,

    Humanitarian demining is part of Switzerland’s humanitarian tradition. We want to help alleviate suffering and enable sustainable development.

    That is also the aim of this conference, which we have organised together with Ukraine.

    In closing, I would like to express my sincere thanks to all of you for your dedication and commitment.

    Your presence here underscores the crucial support that is so urgently needed and that the people living in mine-affected countries deserve.

    Thank you very much.

    Address for enquiries

    DDPS Communication
    Federal Palace East
    CH-3003 Bern

    Publisher

    Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sports
    http://www.vbs.admin.ch

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Delivering a skills passport for the Clean Energy Transition

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Joint letter from Secretary of State and Gillian Martin MSP to the Chief Executives of Offshore Energies UK (OEUK) and Renewable UK on the department’s involvement in the Energy Skills Passport project.

    Documents

    Energy Skills Passport: joint ministerial letter

    PDF, 209 KB, 2 pages

    Details

    A joint letter from the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) and the Scottish Government to David Whitehouse, Chief Executive of Offshore Energies UK (OEUK) and Dan McGrail, Chief Executive of Renewable UK announcing that the department will be coming onboard to assist with the industry-led Energy Skills Passport project.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 October 2024

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    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Egypt-Ethiopia hostilities are playing out in the Horn – the risk of new proxy wars is high

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Endalcachew Bayeh, Lecturer and Researcher, Bahir Dar University

    Egypt recently deepened its involvement in the war-weary Horn of Africa by arming Somalia and deploying its troops in the embattled country. To Ethiopia’s growing alarm, Egypt is also set to join the multinational force supporting the Somali army against the jihadist threat by al-Shabaab. Egypt’s potentially destabilising presence in the region is seen a direct consequence of Ethiopia’s port agreement with breakaway Somaliland, which Somalia took as a direct affront. Endalcachew Bayeh, a political scholar with a focus on the Horn of Africa, sets out the risks and the path to de-escalation.

    What do we know about Egypt’s entry into Somalia and the theatre of conflict in the Horn?

    Egypt’s arrival in the Horn of Africa can be traced back to Ethiopia’s quest for a dedicated port under its control. Ethiopia is the world’s largest landlocked country by population and has relied exclusively on the port of Djibouti since the outbreak of the Ethiopia-Eritrea war (1998-2000).

    Ethiopia has been exploring alternative access points. This led to the announcement on 1 January 2024 that it had struck a port deal with Somaliland. Ethiopia agreed to recognise the breakaway republic in exchange for a naval base on Somaliland’s coast.

    The announcement sparked a diplomatic rift with Somalia, which viewed the deal as a violation of its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Somalia still considers self-declared Somaliland part of its territory.

    Amid the turmoil, Somalia courted Egypt as a regional patron to counter Ethiopia. This aligned well with Egypt’s increasing interest in finding a military partner along Ethiopia’s border.

    Egypt is a longstanding rival of Ethiopia. Recently, it threatened to go to war over Ethiopia’s massive Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, which it sees as a threat to its survival.

    Egypt deployed military forces in Somalia following its defence deal with Mogadishu in August 2024. It also plans to deploy 5,000 soldiers as part of the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia. The mission is set to replace the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia, in which Ethiopia is a main player.

    Ethiopia’s agreement to recognise Somaliland and the friction with Somalia have brought its old enemy, Egypt, to its doorstep.

    How have Egypt-Ethiopia hostilities added to regional tensions?

    Soon after Egypt’s deployment in Somalia, Ethiopia formalised its recognition of Somaliland. It also sent an ambassador to the capital, Hargeisa. This made it the first nation to officially acknowledge Somaliland’s independence. The two are also rushing to turn their memorandum of understanding into a binding bilateral treaty.

    Somaliland ordered the closure of the Egyptian Cultural Library in Hargeisa.

    Eritrea, for a time a key ally of Ethiopia’s Abiy Ahmed in the fight against the Tigray People’s Liberation Front, is now at odds with Addis Ababa. And, in response to the recent tensions in the region, Eritrea is strengthening its ties with Egypt and Somalia. A recent meeting of the three has created a united front against Ethiopia.

    In Somalia, Ethiopia plays a stabilising role. Somalia now demands that Ethiopia should end its involvement. That could open the way for militant groups and keep Somalia unstable. This is even more likely to happen if Egypt focuses on its competition with Ethiopia rather than Somalia’s stability.

    In addition, Somalis have longstanding territorial claims over parts of Ethiopia, Kenya and Djibouti. Instability can create fertile ground for groups like Al-Shabaab, which aims to include these territories in an Islamic state.

    Finally, tensions have risen between Djibouti and Somaliland over the Ethiopia-Somaliland port deal. This is because the agreement will almost certainly be bad for Djibouti’s economy. Djibouti relies heavily on port revenues that are almost entirely generated from Ethiopia.

    What are the risks for the region?

    Ethiopia’s recognition of Somaliland and Egypt’s presence in Somalia come at a time of multiple regional crises. These include the strained Ethiopia-Eritrea relations, the Ethiopia-Sudan dispute over Al-Fashaga border region, and instability in Ethiopia.

    This volatile environment increases the likelihood of proxy wars.

    Key areas to watch are:

    Sudan and Egypt: These two countries align on the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam issue. Egypt has enhanced its security cooperation with Sudan through military support and joint exercises. Although Sudan is in turmoil, the Al-Fashaga dispute with Ethiopia remains a potential flashpoint. Egypt may take advantage of this dispute and its support for the Sudanese Armed Forces against the Rapid Support Forces to further its interests.

    Instability in Ethiopia: In several regions, the government is engaged in active conflict with non-state forces. This instability creates fertile ground for Egypt to potentially support proxies against the Ethiopian government. Egypt and Somalia have already expressed the possibility of using proxy forces.

    Egypt’s main motivation for intervening in the region is to control the Nile’s source or hinder Ethiopia’s use of the water. As a result, Ethiopia perceives Egypt’s presence at its doorstep as a direct security threat. This increases tensions between Egypt, Somalia and Ethiopia.

    Any further destabilisation of Ethiopia would disrupt the entire region, as it shares porous borders with almost all countries in the Horn.

    What are the potential avenues for de-escalation?

    A promising pathway for reducing tensions in Somalia and the broader region is for the two regional powers to reconsider their strategies and exercise restraint.

    Ethiopia can access the sea through Somaliland without formal recognition. This could ease tensions and would not encourage separatist movements.

    For Egypt, a more constructive approach would be to limit its direct involvement in the Horn of Africa. Instead, it should address its concerns about the Ethiopian mega-dam through the United Nations, the African Union and other platforms. Historically, its unilateral actions have often been sources of tensions rather than solutions in the region.

    The African Union and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development must ensure that the regional states themselves address regional issues. States must make wise decisions now to calm tensions, as no state will be spared from the spillover effects.

    Endalcachew Bayeh 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. Egypt-Ethiopia hostilities are playing out in the Horn – the risk of new proxy wars is high – https://theconversation.com/egypt-ethiopia-hostilities-are-playing-out-in-the-horn-the-risk-of-new-proxy-wars-is-high-241402

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Wheelyboat 123 report published

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Capsize of a recreational craft on Roadford Lake, Devon with the loss of two lives.

    Today, we have published our accident investigation report into the capsize of Wheelyboat 123 on Roadford Lake, Devon, England on 8 June 2022, resulting in two fatalities.

    Chief Inspector of Marine Accidents, Andrew Moll OBE, said:

    Trips on the wheelyboat were beneficial for the continuing wellbeing and therapy of the residents of the care home; however, no-one had taken time to properly consider the risks associated with taking the wheelchair users afloat, either before the accident or on the day itself.

    The condition of the wheelyboat had been allowed to deteriorate so water could enter it, and on the day no-one recognised the implications of carrying vulnerable people who were strapped into heavy motorised wheelchairs around a lake in an open boat. In short, no-one had their eye on the risk, and tragically Alison Tilsley and Alex Wood lost their lives.

    As well as the catalogue of failings highlighted by the report, the investigation has also uncovered a worrying lack of oversight which must be seen as an impetus for urgent action. Charitable activities such as this seem to fall into a grey zone with no organisation or authority in a position of oversight. This meant that no-one stepped in to question what had become custom and practice. Addressing this is not simple and may only be possible with a change in the law; however, the current situation is not something that should be tolerated.

    The report, available via this link, contains details of what happened, subsequent actions taken and recommendations.

    Media enquiries (telephone only)

    Media enquiries during office hours 01932 440015

    Media enquiries out of hours 0300 7777878

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK and New Zealand agree blueprint for satellite removal and servicing missions

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The UK and New Zealand space agencies have signed a blueprint for the removal and servicing of operational satellites that are very close together or making contact with one another.

    Contains modified Copernicus Sentinel data, processed by ESA

    The arrangement, signed at the International Astronautical Congress in Milan, is designed to support missions in the fast-growing areas of in-orbit servicing, space debris removal and satellite refuelling, known as ‘rendezvous and proximity’ operations.  

    Modern society is increasingly reliant on satellite technology and the Earth’s orbits are more crowded than ever before. There is an urgent need to invest in new technologies that can help remove debris from space and keep satellites operating for longer.  

    However, these complex missions involve moving spacecraft close to one another, and the novel nature of these missions raises difficult questions around the application of international rules and guidelines, particularly if launched and operated by more than one nation. Given the importance of improving space sustainability, New Zealand and the UK have been exploring ways to reduce the legal, policy, and regulatory barriers, and uncertainty associated with multistate rendezvous and proximity missions. 

    The work between the UK and New Zealand is designed to demonstrate how international corporation in this area can keep space sustainable for current and future generations. It provides a set of principles for allocating liability between different states involved in the different stages of these missions. It does this within the framework set out in the Convention on International Liability for Damage Caused by Space Objects (the ‘Liability Convention’), as well as principles around licensing and information sharing.  

    As the Liability Convention was established in 1972, when most space missions were led by governments rather than companies, the UK and New Zealand are hoping to make its application to the current space age easier to navigate, reducing barriers for industry to carry out these important mission types.    

    Iain Cossar, Head of the New Zealand Space Agency and Dr Paul Bate, Chief Executive of the UK Space Agency sign the arrangement at IAC 2024 in Milan.

    Dr Paul Bate, Chief Executive of the UK Space Agency said:  

    As space leaders from across the world gather in Milan this week, we’re pleased to agree with our partners in New Zealand a world-first arrangement to help ease the way for future missions that can help keep space sustainable.  

    In-orbit servicing and manufacturing and space debris removal are high-growth areas for the global space sector, and we hope our work with New Zealand can act as a blueprint for other nations to follow and benefit from.

    Iain Cossar, Head of the New Zealand Space Agency said: 

    We place a lot of importance on space sustainability in New Zealand, and this agreement with the UK demonstrates our commitment to ensuring our space environment is safe and sustainable.  

    The arrangement outlines how we will cooperate on active debris removal and in-orbit servicing missions.  

    The principles and guidance we have developed could apply more broadly to other states, and like the UK, we hope this work can serve as a blueprint to enable these important activities internationally as we look to address the challenges posed by orbital debris.

    New Zealand is home to the world’s first private spaceport which has conducted 49 launches to date. The UK is due to host its first vertical orbital launches from spaceports in Scotland in 2025, following the first horizontal launch attempt from Spaceport Cornwall last year.  

    Independent research published in 2022 estimates the global market for In-Orbit Services and Manufacturing to be $14.3 billion. A 2023 report from the UKspace trade association puts the opportunity for the UK at £2.7 billion.

    Joanne Wheeler, Managing Director of the Earth & Space Sustainability Initiative, said:

    This agreement between the UK and New Zealand space agencies for the removal and servicing of satellites shows real leadership in this important area of space sustainability and is an excellent example of the all-important international collaboration that is vital to the sustainability of space.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: ICC DSI launches digital trade reliability assessment tool  

    Source: International Chamber of Commerce

    Headline: ICC DSI launches digital trade reliability assessment tool  

    Developed by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC)’s Digital Standards Initiative (DSI) and the Digital Governance Council (DGC) of Canada, the new assessment framework enables an entity to deploy ETRs in place of paper trade documentation assessing a platform’s ability to effect the transfer in conformity with the definition of the Model Law on Electronic Transferable Records (MLETR) definition of reliability. As more economies align to the MLETR, the assessment allows for service providers to assert their reliability through a commonly accepted market standard.  

    Pamela Mar, Managing Director, ICC DSI said : 

    “The reliability assessment framework is a collective effort drawing on the knowledge and work of technical and commercial experts from various entities involved in digital trust, standards, certifications and assessment. This launch is an important first step in the development of a framework for ensuring digital trust at scale, an important pillar of the digital trade ecosystem.” 

    ICC DSI and the DGC led a working group of standards bodies, technical experts, assessment firms, and commercial and industry entities to develop the tool that holds potential to become a major credential for this part of digital trade services. The working group operated with advice from the Industry Advisory Board of ICC DSI.  

    Keith Jansa, CEO, DGC of Canada said : 

    “The collaborative effort between ICC and DGC has resulted in a groundbreaking technical self-assessment for the reliability of systems that enable the transfer of Electronic Transferable Records (ETRs). This is a major step towards international standardisation and formal recognition of digital service providers enabling the global digital trade and we look forward to continuing the work with ICC and the ETR community.” 

    The assessment framework was recently piloted by several ETR service providers to test its robustness, utility and market relevance. It has been released as a beta version for self-assessment, while plans for a certification with third party assessment are in development.  

    To access the assessment framework, visit: https://github.com/dgc-cgn/CAS-Digital-Trade-Documentation  

    A 30-min webinar with a live Q&A will take place on 30 October, Wednesday, 9pm SGT / 9am Ottawa / 3pm CET.  Register, free of charge here.   

    For more details about the ICC Digital Standards Initiative, please visit: http://www.dsi.iccwbo.org. 

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Five young people arrested in relation to serious incidents, Christchurch

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Please attribute to Superintendent Lane Todd, Canterbury Metro Area Commander:

    Five young people have been apprehended this afternoon and face charges relating to serious offences over the past 48 hours.

    About 5pm, Police were called to Linwood Avenue after a report of a group of young people stealing a vehicle.

    Units immediately responded and identified that the suspects involved were wanted in relation to a number of offences, including a vehicle theft in Wigram, several instances of threatening members of the public, allegedly intending to rob them, as well as a burglary.

    The vehicle was lost sight of, however about 5.45pm Police were notified of another vehicle theft on Port Hills Road, Hillsborough, and attending officers then identified the occupants as the same group. The earlier vehicle was located abandoned.

    Police monitored the vehicle, including by air with the use of a private helicopter contracted to assist.

    While Police were positioning themselves to stop the vehicle, it was seen driving dangerously several times around the city before being abandoned on Lichfield Street, where the group fled on foot.

    They were all apprehended a short time later and taken into custody.

    Charges are now being considered for a range of alleged offences.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Leeds parks set to serve up tennis courts refurbishment

    Source: City of Leeds

    Leeds City Council and the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) have been working over the summer to breathe new life into local park tennis courts across the city.

    In total, 42 tennis courts at eight public parks have been renovated, with investment of over £654,000 ensuring that top quality facilities are available for local communities.

    The parks included are Beckett Park in Headingley, Burley Park, Chapel Allerton Park, Grove Road Recreation Ground near Temple Newsam, Harehills Park, Roundhay Park, Springhead Park in Rothwell and The Hollies in Weetwood.

    The project is part of a £30m nationwide investment supported by the LTA Tennis Foundation and delivered by the LTA, to refurbish public tennis courts across Great Britain and open up the sport to more people.

    This investment will see thousands of existing park tennis courts in poor or unplayable condition brought back to life for the benefit of communities across the country through renovation works and improved court accessibility with new gate-access technology and booking systems.

    Tennis courts within Leeds’ parks are free to use and provide opportunities for children and adults to get active and enjoy time outdoors.

    Locally, investment is also being provided by several Leeds City Council ward members for the tennis courts in their area. 

    As part of the project, Leeds City Council will work with the LTA to deliver a range of activities across the renovated parks. This will include weekly organised Barclays Free Park Tennis sessions for all ages, playing levels and experience, with equipment provided. Local Tennis Leagues will also provide opportunities to get active through local competitions.

    The courts, which were closed during the refurbishment works, are now all back open (with the exception of at Roundhay park where the work is due to commence shortly) and providing a much-improved user experience.

    It is now possible to book courts to ensure there is one available before turning up. From late November, visitors will need a booking to gain access to the courts with a pin code. Bookings can be made for free online at https://www.lta.org.uk/play.  

    Councillor Mohammed Rafique, Leeds City Council’s executive member for climate, energy, environment and green space, said: “This is a fantastic scheme to improve tennis courts across our city’s parks and we’re pleased to be working together with the LTA to deliver it.

    “Investing in these facilities will ensure that we have good quality public tennis courts available across the city for people of all ages to use free of charge for many years to come. This is particularly important given that health and wellbeing is a high priority for Leeds City Council.”

    Julie Porter, Chief Operating Officer at the LTA, said: “We are delighted to be working with Leeds City Council to improve their park tennis facilities and provide more opportunities for anyone to pick up a racket and get active. This investment is part of the LTA’s Parks Tennis Project and courts will be available for people to use for years to come. We will also be working closely with Leeds City Council to ensure that the local community have a range of accessible opportunities to get on court and open up our sport to many more people.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Planning approval for the redevelopment of 38-40 George Street

    Source: City of Oxford

    Thursday, 17 October 2024

    At the planning committee meeting held on 15th October Oxford City Council approved the plans for Marick Real Estate to redevelop 38-40 George Street

    At the planning committee meeting held on 15th October Oxford City Council approved the plans for Marick Real Estate to redevelop 38-40 George Street for a new 145 room aparthotel operated by Staycity for their premium brand Wilde. The development with also include a new 400m2 community space developed in partnership with Makespace Oxford, which will be used for a wide range of community activities.  

    “We are delighted to see these proposals, which will improve the Gloucester Green area and contribute towards the city’s need for more overnight accommodation and community space, and reduce the pressure to turn family homes into short term lets. It will also provide 24 new cycle spaces and public realm enhancements, alongside generating employment and apprenticeship opportunities, which will pay the Oxford Living Wage as a minimum.” Councillor Ed Turner, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance and Asset Management 

    “This is fantastic news for Oxford and supports the Council’s policy to encourage more hotels to open in Oxford city centre to boost the city centre’s economy.” Andrew Heselton of Marick

    For any further information please visit the project website.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Collyhurst welcomes opening of Community Construction Skills Centre

    Source: City of Manchester

    A new centre dedicated to developing and uplifting the skills of its local community has opened in Collyhurst.

    The Community Construction Skills Centre will offer a series of training courses and hands-on classes that will give learners vital work experience and confidence in order to create employment opportunities. 

    The learning hub, which will advance “community upskilling,” will make Collyhurst residents’  accessibility and travelling needs easier with training delivered on site. 

    The employability training will take place in a 4-week period and equip learners with accredited qualifications in health and safety and construction skills, including Trade Techniques and Health Safety and Welfare in the Workplace. Over 50 new students are expected to enrol on training courses running up until December. 

    The centre boasts a unique training model that is adaptable to people who are unemployed, ex-offenders and ex-military members as part of learning basic, but crucial DIY skills  to increase employability.

    The Community Construction Skills Centre project was initiated in partnership with FEC and Manchester City Council who identified the need for construction skills to support local people to access training into the sector. 

    Working in collaboration with YES and the ​​Construction Skills People and their Greater Manchester Skills Academy, the project first opened to students in September as part of wider investment through the Victoria North Development. The project will significantly transform and advance the North of Manchester by developing 15,000 homes over the next 20 years with new and improved transport links, parks, healthcare facilities and retail spaces.

    The region has been hit the hardest by unemployment and mental-health related illness. Long-term and embedded worklessness has affected over 16,500 working-age adults receiving out-of-work benefits. 

    In Manchester, workers are on low wages with a median annual earning of £24,055 while the worst family poverty rates are in North Manchester and East Manchester with over 43% of children and young people growing up in poverty.

    To ensure training at the Community Skills Centre continues to work for the needs of Collyhurst residents, the model has been localised which means that partner groups are required to undertake employability assessments and adequately advise and support those who want to take part in training. 

    Following this, successful candidates will be invited to attend civil engineering and groundworks Bootcamps which will enhance employability and training with the Ride on Roller, Forward Tipping Dumper and Plant Vehicle Marshall certifications.

    There are also opportunities to undertake trade specific training such as Bricklaying, Plastering and Joinery, while being guaranteed an interview with local contractors. 

    Community days will also be held at the centre to encourage residents to learn new skills such as painting preparation and general DIY.

    More information about training opportunities at the Community Construction Skills Centre is available at Construction Skills People. 

     John Hacking, Executive Member for Employment, Skills and Leisure, said: “I’m thrilled to see the opening of the Community Skills Centre in Collyhurst which has been created to upskill residents and build confidence as they enter into the workforce.

    “This has been a significant collaborative effort with important partners who are all working towards the same goal of advancing Collyhurst residents and fully recognise the struggle the North Manchester region has had to deal with poverty and unemployment.

    “By increasing the accessibility for hands-on training, this centre gives eager learners the encouragement and support they need to work through the training to employment pipeline with robust skills and confidence.”

    Rebecca Kirkland, Community Liaison Manager for FEC, said: “The Community Construction Skills Centre will provide local residents with a first hand insight into the construction industry and give them access to unique employment opportunities.

    The Centre has been in the works for a long time and we couldn’t have opened its doors without the support of our partners who will continue to help us find the next generation of talent from right across the community.”

    James Broome, 38, from Moston, said: “The Collyhurst Community Skills Centre has been a brilliant learning experience. I’m in the final week of training for a CSCS Greencard which is giving me important skills in labouring. Once I’ve completed that I will then go on to train for the Bootcamp Dump Truck License.

    “The course has been really helpful, it’s opened my eyes and broadened my horizons massively. My tutor on the course is fantastic; she’s really clear and easy to understand when she’s teaching and is also helping me write my CV for jobs. 

    I’ve been working in production and in warehouses too so my confidence has really grown with my hands-on skills and with all the different types of people you meet, it has really boosted my self-esteem socially.

    “For anyone considering joining a course, I’d say give it a go and throw yourself into it to get the most out of it.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Warm and welcoming spaces to open soon this winter

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Venues across Plymouth are opening their doors again this winter to offer people a safe, warm space, as part of the city’s cost of living support for residents.

    Household Support Funds have been distributed to the Council by the Government to help those who are struggling to afford energy, water, food and other essentials because of the rise in cost of living, as part of this funding, businesses have the opportunity to apply to become a Welcoming Space this winter.

    The warm, welcome spaces were a success last year, many locations stayed open all year round, running regular community cafes or events to help bring people together and support them.

    Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet Member for Housing, Cooperative Development and Communities, said: “The Welcoming Spaces are not just a place to keep warm but somewhere for people to come together as a community during the winter months.

    “The aim of the Welcoming Spaces is to help build individual and community resilience which could include signposting or providing some information and advice, encouraging the development of mutual aid and connecting people, and sharing and increasing skills and knowledge.

    “We understand the rise in the cost of living, and I am really pleased to see that more places will be opening their doors to support residents this winter.”

    For more information about Welcoming Spaces, visit: Welcoming spaces | PLYMOUTH.GOV.UK.

    Organisations that are interested in registering as a Welcoming Space can also do so via this link, this must be submitted by 5pm on Friday 1 November 2024.

    The website will be updated once grants have been awarded in mid-November.

    Applications should be for additional provision, not funding existing activity.

    Applications are welcome that include activities to connect people and encourage volunteering and the sharing of food or skills.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Press Release – Alderney Ferry Services Licence Application Thursday 17 October 2024

    Source: Channel Islands – States of Alderney

    Media Release

    Date:  17th October 2024

    States of Alderney clarifies progress on new ferry operation

    Concerns that the States of Alderney is dragging its feet on the issuing of a passenger licence for Alderney Ferry Services’s new vessel Dart Fisher have been strenuously denied.

    The States of Alderney meeting on October 16th was told that the Harbour Authority has provided full guidance and assistance to Alderney Ferry Services (AFS) on the practical and safe operation of the vessel.

    The Authority has assessed options for mooring the vessel in various wind and weather conditions and the most suitable areas and methods for the safe embarking or disembarking of passengers.

    AFS been made aware of the legislative and operational frameworks which the States of Alderney expects all locally licenced commercial vessels to comply with.

    To date, the process has included berthing trials for the Dart Fisher and the training and examination of four candidates put forward by AFS to serve as Master of the vessel. One of those candidates was successful in obtaining a pilotage licence and the reassessment of the remaining three can take place in due course.

    Following the pilotage examinations, the Harbour Master confirmed the results with AFS and reiterated the requirement to apply for a passenger licence. These licences are issued by the General Services Committee (GSC) under section 3 of The Licencing of Passenger Boats (Alderney) 1954 Ordinance.

    The Chief Clerk has now received an application and a report will be brought to GSC for determination at its meeting on November 1st. The outcome will be communicated to AFS immediately.

    The following statement was given at the States meeting:

    “The perception has been created that the States of Alderney is one of the reasons for the delay to the Dart Fisher being a licenced vessel and also being responsible for the need to put [AFS vessel] Causeway Explorer up for sale.

    “The States have been supportive of AFS through provision of subsidies, extending the cost cap of those subsidies to provide additional rotations for our community, extending the tourism season into the shoulder months, and assisting in resolving the challenges that have been posed by the Dart Fisher’s arrival in Alderney.

    “Since the announcement of the purchase of the vessel, the Harbour Authority has liaised closely with AFS to discuss practical operational matters and ensure safe operations. Therefore, to suggest the States have been the cause of delay to licencing and suggested as a reason for the sale of Causeway Explorer is unfounded.”

    Ends

    Media enquiries:Alistair.Forrest2@gov.gg

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Humanitarian aid for Middle East

    Source: Scottish Government

    Emergency donation of £250,000 to support relief efforts.

    Humanitarian aid efforts in the Middle East will receive funding of £250,000 in response to a Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) Appeal.

    DEC, Scottish Catholic International Aid Fund (SCIAF) and Mercy Corps will use the funding to support humanitarian activities as the situation in the region continues to deteriorate.

    £200,000 will contribute to a fund shared between DEC’s 15 member organisations helping to provide food, water, medical assistance and shelter to displaced people in the region. SCIAF and Mercy Corps will each receive £25,000 to support aid activities.

    First Minister John Swinney said:

    “Thousands of innocent people have been killed in the crisis in the Middle East, with millions more displaced and left without certainty about how to access to shelter, food, clean water and medical care.

    “The humanitarian crisis in the Middle East continues to deepen and spread, and an immediate ceasefire and de-escalation of conflict is needed to prevent more innocent lives being lost and bring an end to the unimaginable suffering this conflict has caused.

    “Urgent humanitarian aid must be provided to all those who need it, and this contribution from the Scottish Government will assist the Disasters Emergency Committee, SCIAF and Mercy Corps in ensuring it reaches as many people as possible. Members of the public can also pledge support and make donations to the DEC Appeal in a variety of ways and I would urge everyone to consider donating if they are in a position to do so.”

    Background

    The DEC appeal for the Middle East will launch on 17 October 2024. Details are available on the DEC website for how to donate to the Appeal.

    Humanitarian response – International development – gov.scot (www.gov.scot)

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Viability risks intensifying for some landlords, warns Regulator of Social Housing

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The Regulator of Social Housing (RSH) has today set out the main risks facing the social housing sector.

    Its annual sector risk profile report shows that viability risks have intensified over the last year, and social landlords are facing significant and competing pressures to deliver both more and better social homes against a backdrop of higher borrowing costs.

    Though the sector remains resilient overall, many landlords have less capacity to deal with new challenges. This requires more active management from boards, with less margin for error in decision making.

    It is a fundamental responsibility of all landlords to ensure that tenants are safe in their homes. They must prioritise essential safety work, including issues with cladding on high-rise buildings, and tackle other issues like damp and mould. It is absolutely critical that landlords continue to be well run and financially viable, so they can carry out this important safety work, identify issues before they happen, and build new homes for people on waiting lists.

    London and other urban areas are experiencing the most acute financial pressures particularly where large numbers of flats need building safety works.

    These challenges are expected to persist for the foreseeable future, as social housing undergoes a long-term shift, with higher borrowing costs and an ongoing need to maintain and invest in tenants’ existing homes and build much needed new homes for the future.

    Fiona MacGregor, Chief Executive at RSH, said:

    Most housing associations are investing record amounts in new and existing homes without threatening their financial viability.

    However, some individual landlords face particular pressures, and we expect those to sustain for some time before the position eases.

    There is very little margin for error, and it is absolutely critical that landlords are well run, with robust  systems for identifying and mitigating risks.  

    Boards must maintain a real clarity of purpose to successfully navigate these competing demands while remaining financially viable.

    For the first time since 2009, the cost of servicing debt for private registered providers (PRPs) exceeded net earnings last year. In aggregate terms, forecast sector interest cover over the next five years is just 111%.

    RSH has a range of tools – including inspections, yearly stability checks and quarterly surveys – to identify emerging risks and work with landlords to mitigate these as far as possible.

    RSH has already identified a number of individual landlords who were not financially viable and who have since merged with others to protect tenants’ homes and lenders’ capital. RSH expects that more individual landlords will fail to meet the outcomes in its economic standards over the coming months, as this challenging environment continues.

    Notes to editors

    1. The Sector Risk Profile sets out the regulator’s view of the most significant risks to providers’ ongoing compliance with its regulatory standards. The report is aimed primarily at boards of housing associations and other private registered providers and, where relevant, the councillors forming the governing bodies of local authority registered providers.
    2. The Sector Risk Profile has a particular focus on risks to delivering the outcomes required by RSH’s economic standards. RSH’s annual consumer regulation review provides examples from recent casework that providers can learn from to help strengthen their approach.
    3. The Regulator of Social Housing promotes a viable, efficient and well-governed social housing sector able to deliver and maintain homes of appropriate quality that meet a range of needs. It does this by undertaking robust economic regulation focusing on governance, financial viability and value for money that maintains lender confidence and protects the  taxpayer. It also sets consumer standards and may take action if the outcomes in these standards are not delivered.
    4. Local authorities must meet RSH’s new consumer standards but RSH does not regulate their governance or financial viability.

    For general enquiries email enquiries@rsh.gov.uk. For media enquiries please see our Media Enquiries page.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: GRECO: Conclusion of fourth round of evaluations

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Justice and Police

    Federal Office of Justice
    Bern, 17.10.2024 – –
    GRECO (the Council of Europe’s Group of States against Corruption) acknowledges Switzerland’s efforts to prevent corruption among judges and members of parliament in the Second Addendum to its Second Compliance Report. The Report will be published today, 17 October. This concludes GRECO’s fourth round of evaluations.
    Address for enquiries
    Olivier Gonin, Federal Office of Justice, T +41 58 463 08 50, olivier.gonin@bj.admin.ch

    Publisher
    Federal Office of Justicehttp://www.bj.admin.ch

    Social share

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Stormont has no idea how many times Michael McMonagle entered Stormont since being charged

    Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

    Statement by TUV MLA Timothy Gaston:

    “While there has been justified focus on the pay arrangements for Michael McMonagle, something which has received relatively little attention is the fact that because Sinn Fein, and specifically North Antrim MLA Philip McGuigan, failed to cancel his pass he could come and go as he pleased from Parliament Buildings.

    “In order to probe this issue I asked the Assembly Commission to detail the number of times, including dates, that Michael McMonagle entered Parliament Buildings since being charged with sexual offences against children; and any groups, including schools and youth groups, that visited Parliament Buildings on the dates Michael McMonagle was in Parliament Buildings during this period.

    “The Commission has now confirmed, as I suspected they would, that they have no idea.

    “We therefore have a situation where someone suspected of sexual offences against children – who has since admitted his guilt – was left with the means to come and go from Parliament Buildings while charged with serious offences and no one has any idea if he availed of the opportunity, facilitated by Philip McGuigan, to do so.

    “There are profoundly serious child protection issues involved here – issues which should not be ignored merely because the political and media establishment believe that the rotten institutions of the Belfast Agreement are more important than child safety.”

    Note to editors

    Mr Gaston’s question and the Commission’s answer are as follows:

    To ask the Assembly Commission to detail (i) the number of times, including dates, that Michael McMonagle entered Parliament Buildings since being charged with sexual offences against children; and (ii) any groups, including schools and youth groups, that visited Parliament Buildings on the dates Michael McMonagle was in Parliament Buildings during this period.
    (AQW 16576/22-27)

    Data relative to the use of Assembly ID passes is retained on the Assembly’s Visitor Management System for a period of 90 days after use. The pass issued to Michael McMonagle was cancelled on 1 October 2024, and there is no record of it being used in the preceding 90 days which extend back until 4 July 2024. It has been widely reported that Mr McMonagle attended a publicity event in the Great Hall on 14 February 2023.

    When Mr McMonagle attended the Great Hall on 14 February 2023, he used a visitor pass. These passes are valid for one day and are issued to any visitor to Parliament Buildings.

    Yours sincerely
    Trevor Clarke MLA

    (On behalf of the Assembly Commission)

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Five playgrounds have been renovated in the Strogino district

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Five playgrounds were repaired in the Strogino district as part of the improvement and rehabilitation of part of the Moskvoretsky natural and historical park. The work was carried out in the Strogino floodplain and in the courtyards of residential buildings near it. Modern play equipment, made mainly of wood, was installed on the playgrounds. Young archaeologists will be able to discover a “dinosaur skeleton” on one of them.

    “The surfaces on the playgrounds had become unusable over time, and in some places they were completely absent. The equipment did not meet modern standards and needed to be replaced: it was outdated, there was no stylistic uniformity, and there was significant wear and tear on the moving elements of the structures. The functionality of the playgrounds no longer met the needs of children aged three to seven, and elements that would be interesting to older children were missing,” said the deputy head of the capital’s Department of Capital Repairs.

    Vladimir Alyabyev.

    In Stroginskaya Poima, a children’s playground near property 33 on Marshal Katukov Street has been renovated. It was equipped with landscape geoplastics — artificial bumps were made, and play elements were mounted on and in them. A hill with tunnels for climbing, slides, and an obstacle course appeared here. Various climbing elements were placed on the slopes, clinging to which you can climb to the tops of these bumps, and slides will help you go down. A sandbox with tables, chairs, a children’s excavator, and a hidden panel in the form of a dinosaur skeleton was equipped for the little ones. While digging it, children can imagine themselves as archaeologists.

    At the playground near building 32, building 3 on Tallinskaya Street, swings, spring swings, a sandbox and a play complex with a climbing board, a slide and a suspended rope crossing were installed.

    On Tvardovskogo Street, in addition to the usual swings, carousels and trampolines, a children’s town called “Monkeys” was installed with various climbing frames and a slide. A sandbox with play equipment was also provided for the little ones, and comfortable benches were installed for the parents. At the request of residents, the playground surface was made of natural material – rounded gravel.

    Two playgrounds have been renovated near the houses between Tvardovskogo Street and Turkmensky Proezd. On one of them, a slide and climbing elements have been placed on a natural slope, by clinging to which you can climb to the upper level of the playground. Benches for parents and a hammock have been installed on the lower one. Across the path, there is a larger playground where you can find talking tubes, balance beams, a sports complex, interactive play panels, trampolines, a sandbox and swings, including ones with seats for the little ones.

    The playgrounds were designed in a single style. Given the peculiarity of the territory, the play equipment was made mainly of wood. This material is environmentally friendly, harmonizes well with the environment and allows children to get acquainted with different textures.

    From sand factories to trampolines: what the capital’s playgrounds look like

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

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

    http://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/145396073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Humanitarian mine clearance: Confederation establishes comprehensive partnership with Ukraine’s civil protection service and Swiss mine clearance company

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport

    Bern, 17.10.2024 – In order to reduce the danger posed by mines and other explosive ordnance in Ukraine, the Swiss government is supporting Ukraine’s civil protection service through a partnership with the Swiss company Global Clearance Solutions (GCS). The partnership involves supplying three mine clearance systems to Ukraine alongside a comprehensive training, mentoring and logistics package. The package, which amounts to CHF 4.6 million, is being funded by the federal government and underlines the importance of humanitarian mine clearance for the country’s recovery.

    Mines and other explosive ordnance in the ground pose a danger to the civilian population, restrict agricultural work and hinder the reconstruction of a country. In Ukraine, around 139,000 square kilometres of land are estimated to be contaminated by mines and other explosive ordnance. That is equivalent to about three and a half times the surface area of Switzerland. Humanitarian mine clearance in Ukraine is therefore a priority for Switzerland. For that reason, the federal government has signed a contract with the Swiss company Global Clearance Solutions (GCS) for the delivery of three mine clearance systems to the State Emergency Service of Ukraine (SESU). The package, which includes a training and mentoring programme, is worth CHF 4.6 million.

    The project aims to strengthen the capacities of the Ukrainian civil authorities so that humanitarian demining operations can be carried out more safely, efficiently and effectively. In addition to the delivery of the three demining systems, the contract includes an extensive training, mentoring and logistics package. GCS has its own maintenance centre and operations team in Ukraine, enabling the company to provide extensive training and deploy the demining systems sustainably and efficiently.

    The partnership and the demining systems are being financed out of the CHF 100 million that the Federal Council made available on 29 September 2023 to support humanitarian mine clearance in Ukraine. The total amount will be funded equally by the DDPS and the FDFA. Through this support package, Switzerland is providing its expertise to help overcome an immense humanitarian challenge. In addition, Switzerland, under the lead of President Viola Amherd and Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, is jointly hosting the Ukraine Mine Action Conference with Ukraine in Lausanne on 17 and 18 October. The importance of mine clearance for Ukraine’s recovery will be discussed at the conference.

    The federal government is working closely with the Geneva International Centre for Humanitarian Demining (GICHD) on humanitarian mine clearance in Ukraine. The GICHD is supporting the Ukrainian authorities in developing a national demining programme. In addition, the federal government is supporting the demining work of the Swiss Foundation for Mine Action (FSD) on the ground in Ukraine. A year ago, the DDPS presented Ukraine with a remote-controlled demining machine from the Swiss DIGGER Foundation.

    Address for enquiries

    DDPS Communications
    +41 58 464 50 58
    kommunikation@gs-vbs.admin.ch

    FDFA Communications
    +41 58 460 55 55

    Global Clearance Solutions
    +41 55 511 15 00
    media@gcs.ch

    Publisher

    Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sports
    http://www.vbs.admin.ch

    Defence
    http://www.vtg.admin.ch

    State Secretariat for Security Policy
    https://www.sepos.admin.ch/de

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Coventry sends congratulations to Nobel Peace Prize winners

    Source: City of Coventry

    A message from Cllr Abdul Salam Khan, Deputy Leader of Coventry City Council.

    The City of Coventry sends its congratulations to the 2024 Nobel Peace Prize winners Nihon Hidankyo.

    The grassroots movement of atomic bomb survivors from Hiroshima and Nagasaki, also known as Hibakusha, is a worthy recipient of the Prize for its dedicated work towards creating a world free of nuclear weapons.

    Coventry has formed strong links with the city of Hiroshima over the years, and we are very proud of that friendship. Hiroshima Day is marked every year in our city on 6 August as we remember those who lost their lives when atomic bombs were dropped on the two cities in 1945.

    Since those dark days of war, our cities have worked tirelessly for peace and have formed friendships with others around the world to try and prevent such horrors ever happening again.

    We are delighted that the efforts of Nihon Hidankyo have been recognised with this great honour.

    Their dedication and resolve to banish nuclear weapons to the pages of history have helped to spread a message of peace.

    These historical witnesses have helped to generate and consolidate widespread opposition to nuclear weapons by drawing on personal stories and creating educational campaigns based on their own experience.

    The core of Alfred Nobel’s vision was the belief that committed individuals can make a difference, and that is clearly shown by Nihon Hidankyo and the survivors who have bravely chosen to use their terrible experiences to bring peace to others.

    Next year will mark 80 years since those terrible weapons caused such pain and devastation, and yet they are still a threat to our world today.

    The city of Coventry thanks Nihon Hidankyo for its work to combat that threat, and we renew our promise to the cities and people of Hiroshima and Nagasaki that we will always continue our work for peace by their sides.

    Cllr Abdul Salam Khan, Deputy Leader, Coventry  City Council

    Thursday, 17th October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Two CPAs Sentenced in Billion-Dollar Syndicated Conservation Easement Tax Scheme

    Source: US State of California

    Defendants Helped Clients File Tax Returns Claiming Millions in False Charitable Deductions

    Two accountants were each sentenced today to 20 months in prison for their roles in the promotion and sale of abusive syndicated conservation easement tax shelters.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, Victor Smith was a CPA and founding partner of an Atlanta-based accounting firm. Beginning at least in 2014 and through at least 2019, Smith promoted and sold tax deductions to his wealthy clients in the form of units in illegal syndicated conservation easement tax shelters organized and created by co-defendants Jack Fisher, James Sinnott and others. Smith, along with his firm, sold approximately $14 million in false tax deductions to their clients, causing a tax loss to the IRS of about $4.8 million. He earned $491,400 in commissions from Fisher and Sinnott for his role in the scheme.

    William Tomasello was a CPA at another accounting firm who, at least in 2015 and through at least 2019, also promoted and sold units to his wealthy clients in these same syndicated conservation easement tax shelters. Tomasello sold approximately $8.5 million in false deductions, causing a tax loss of about $2.3 million. He earned approximately $525,072 in commissions.

    The scheme entailed the creation of partnerships that would purchase land and land-owning companies and then donate conservation easements over that land or the land itself. Appraisers would value the land and the partnerships would then claim a charitable contribution tax deduction based on the appraised value of the conservation easement, resulting in tax deductions flowing to the wealthy clients who purchased units in the partnership. Many of these clients joined the tax shelters after the donation of the interest in land and after the close of the relevant tax year.

    Smith and Tomasello both knew that, contrary to law, these syndicated conservation easement tax shelters lacked economic substance and that their wealthy clients participated in these sham investments only to obtain a tax deduction and received only a tax benefit for their participation in the tax shelters.  For example, a client who purchased units in a partnership had to “vote” ostensibly on what to do with the partnership’s land. However, Smith and Tomasello knew that the “vote” held by the partnerships each year was just optics and that the land invariably would be donated largely as a conservation easement. Smith and Tomasello also knowingly instructed and caused their clients to falsely backdate documents — such as subscription agreements and checks — related to the illegal tax shelters.

    In addition to their prison sentences, U.S. District Court Judge Timothy C. Batten Sr. for the Northern District of Georgia ordered Smith to serve two years of supervised release and to pay $4,878,990.90 in restitution. Judge Batten ordered Tomasello to serve three years of supervised release, to perform 120 hours of community service and to pay $2,386,816.04 in restitution.   

    Seven additional defendants have previously pleaded guilty to criminal conduct related to the syndicated conservation easement tax shelter scheme of Fisher and Sinnott (who were convicted after trial). These other defendants include appraiser Walter Douglas “Terry” Roberts, accountant Stein Agee, CPA Corey Agee, CPA Ralph Anderson, CPA James Benkoil, CPA Herbert Lewis and CPA and Attorney Randall Lenz.

    Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division, U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan for the Northern District of Georgia and IRS Criminal Investigation Chief Guy Ficco made the announcement. They also thanked U.S. Attorney Dena J. King for the Western District of North Carolina for her office’s assistance.

    IRS Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service investigated the case.

    Trial Attorneys Richard M. Rolwing, Parker Tobin, Jessica Kraft and Nicholas J. Schilling Jr. of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Huber, Deputy Chief of the Complex Frauds Section, for the Northern District of Georgia prosecuted the case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Connecticut Fisherman Sentenced for Tax Evasion

    Source: US State of California

    A Connecticut man was sentenced today to one year and one day in prison for evading taxes on income he earned from commercial fishing in Massachusetts.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, Brian Kobus, of Durham, worked as a commercial fisherman and deckhand for various fishing companies in Massachusetts. After each fishing trip, the companies paid Kobus by check. Despite receiving over $1.2 million in fishing income between 2011 through 2013, and 2017 through 2021, Kobus never filed a federal income tax return or paid the taxes that he owed. To conceal the source and disposition of his income from the IRS, Kobus regularly cashed his paychecks from the fishing companies and used the cash to fund his personal lifestyle.

    In total, Kobus caused a tax loss to the IRS of approximately $377,839.90.

    In addition to his prison sentence, U.S. District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton for the District of Massachusetts ordered Kobus to serve one year of supervised release and to pay $377,839.90 in restitution to the United States.

    Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Joshua S. Levy for the District of Massachusetts made the announcement.

    IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case.

    Trial Attorney Matthew L. Cofer of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Victor Wild for the District of Massachusetts prosecuted the case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ohio Man Who Concealed Croatian War Crime Charge Sentenced to Prison for Immigration Fraud

    Source: US State of California

    An Ohio man was sentenced yesterday to three years in prison for possessing a green card he illegally obtained by concealing that he had been charged with a war crime in Croatia prior to immigrating to the United States.

    According to court documents, Jugoslav Vidic, 56, of Parma Heights, in applying to become a lawful permanent resident of the United States, falsely stated that he had never been charged with breaking any law even though he knew he had been charged in Croatia with a war crime against the civilian population. Vidic also falsely stated that his only past military service was in the Yugoslav Army from 1988 to 1989, when, in fact, he fought with the Serb Army of Krajina and its predecessors during the civil war in the former Yugoslavia from 1991 to 1995. As a result of these materially false statements, Vidic was approved for lawful permanent resident status and received a green card.

    “Jugoslav Vidic lied about war crimes charged against him in an attempt to escape his past and live in the United States unlawfully,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Thanks to the dedication of prosecutors, law enforcement, and our international partners, Vidic will serve prison time in the United States followed by his removal. His sentence demonstrates that human rights violators will not be allowed to hide from their crimes in the United States.”

    “Vidic committed serious human rights violations and was convicted of war crimes in Croatia as a result. Yet, he lied to U.S. immigration officials about his conviction and participation in a violent military force to claim refugee status and obtain a green card — becoming a permanent legal resident of our country — when he was not eligible to do so,” said U.S. Attorney Rebecca Lutzko for the Northern District of Ohio. “Those who run away from violent crimes they commit elsewhere in the world and then enter our country by brazenly lying about their past will be held to account, as yesterday’s sentence demonstrates. Vidic’s deceitful actions are detestable, and unfairly hurt people in need who legitimately seek refuge to flee real harms in their home countries.”

    “Our communities here in Ohio and across the United States are not safe havens for war criminals to escape accountability in their home countries,” said Executive Associate Director Katrina W. Berger of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). “It is my hope that this sentencing provides some measure of solace to the victims’ families with the knowledge that despite the passage of time, the United States will seek justice.”

    “Jugoslav Vidic intentionally circumvented the laws of the United States by lying on his green card application about his war crimes conviction in Croatia,” said Assistant Director Chad Yarbrough of the FBI Criminal Investigative Division. “This case should serve as a warning to others that the FBI will work with our law enforcement partners to identify and hold accountable those like Vidic who seek to violate U.S. law by fraud of any kind.”

    “Jugoslav Vidic knowingly avoided the truth of his past to enjoy the freedoms and liberties of the United States for over two and a half decades,” said Special Agent in Charge Greg Nelsen of the FBI Cleveland Field Office. “Yesterday’s sentence underscores the work of the FBI and its local, state, federal, and international partners and sends a clear message that people in the United States who take part in war crimes, regardless of when or where they occurred, or by masking their involvement, will be identified, investigated, and prosecuted.”

    Vidic admitted in his plea agreement that he was charged with a war crime in Croatia in 1994 and convicted in absentia in 1998. The Croatian court found that during an attack by ethnic Serb forces in Petrinja, Croatia, on Sept. 16, 1991, Vidic cut off the arm of civilian Stjepan Komes, who died afterward. Vidic further admitted that he knew about the Croatian charges when he immigrated to the United States as a refugee in 1999, applied to become a lawful permanent resident in 2000, and was interviewed by U.S. immigration officials and received his green card in 2005.

    Vidic pleaded guilty to one count of possessing an alien registration receipt card knowing it had been procured through materially false statements. As part of the plea agreement, Vidic agreed to the entry of a judicial order of removal from the United States.

    HSI and the FBI investigated the case with coordination provided by the Human Rights Violators and War Crimes Center, including the FBI’s International Human Rights Unit. The Justice Department thanks the Ministry of the Interior and Ministry of Justice and Public Administration of the Republic of Croatia, which were both instrumental in furthering the investigation.

    Trial Attorney Patrick Jasperse of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew W. Shepherd and Jerome J. Teresinski for the Northern District of Ohio prosecuted the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs also provided assistance.

    Members of the public who have information about human rights violators or immigration fraud in the United States are urged to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or through the FBI online tip form, or HSI at 1-866-DHS-2-ICE or through the ICE online tip form. All are staffed around the clock, and tips may be provided anonymously.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Composite Interest Rate: End of September 2024

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Composite Interest Rate: End of September 2024
    Composite Interest Rate: End of September 2024
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    The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:     The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) announced today (17 October) the composite interest rate at the end of September 2024 (Note 1).           The composite interest rate, which is a measure of the average cost of funds of banks, decreased by 17 basis points to 2.35 per cent at the end of September 2024, from 2.52 per cent at the end of August 2024 (see Chart 1 in the Annex). The decrease in composite interest rate mainly reflected the decrease in the weighted funding cost for deposits during the month (see Chart 2 in the Annex) (Note 2).           The historical data of the composite interest rate from the end of the fourth quarter of 2003 to the end of September 2024 are available in the Monthly Statistical Bulletin on the HKMA website (www.hkma.gov.hk).Note 1: The composite interest rate is a weighted average interest rate of all Hong Kong dollar interest-rate-sensitive liabilities, which include deposits from customers, amounts due to banks, negotiable certificates of deposit and other debt instruments, and all other liabilities that do not involve any formal payment of interest but the values of which are sensitive to interest rate movements (such as Hong Kong dollar non-interest bearing demand deposits) on the books of banks. Data from retail banks, which account for about 90 per cent of the total customers’ deposits in the banking sector, are used in the calculation. It should be noted that the composite interest rate represents only average interest expenses. There are various other costs involved in the making of a loan, such as operating costs (e.g. staff and rental expenses), credit cost and hedging cost, which are not covered by the composite interest rate.Note 2: Since June 2019, the composite interest rate and weighted deposit rate have been calculated based on the new local “Interest rate risk in the banking book” (IRRBB) framework. As such, these figures are not strictly comparable with those of previous months.

     
    Ends/Thursday, October 17, 2024Issued at HKT 16:30

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Former Louisiana Sheriff’s Deputy Sentenced for Civil Rights Violation for Using Excessive Force Against Detainee

    Source: US State of California

    A former Louisiana sheriff’s office deputy was sentenced yesterday to 37 months in prison for assaulting a pretrial detainee.

    Javarrea Pouncy, 31, a former sergeant with the DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office (DPSO), previously pleaded guilty to one count of using excessive force against the detainee. During his plea, Pouncy admitted that, in September 2019, he and another DPSO deputy conducted a strip search of a detainee in the DeSoto Parish jail, as part of the detainee’s booking. Pouncy admitted further that, during the search, the deputies repeatedly punched the detainee in his head, face and body, even though the detainee did not pose a threat to either officer. As a result of the assault, the detainee was hospitalized and sustained a broken eye socket and broken nose, among other injuries.

    “The defendant pledged to protect and serve his community, but instead, he repeatedly punched a detainee without justification, leaving him bloodied and broken,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “People in detention have the right to be treated humanely and not to be brutalized by excessive force. This sentence sends a clear message that we will not tolerate such abuses behind bars. The Justice Department will hold accountable officials who violate detainees’ civil rights.”

    “Pouncy took advantage of his position, the power that it yields and the prestige of the badge in committing this criminal act,” said U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown for the Western District of Louisiana. “Decency and order can co-exist with the preservation of an offender’s civil rights. Prosecutions such as these are critical to ensure that the good work of law enforcement officers is not hampered by the heinous acts of bad law enforcement officers.”

    “Yesterday, Pouncy faced the consequences of his unnecessary and violent actions toward someone he was supposed to protect,” said Assistant Director Chad Yarbrough of the FBI Criminal Investigative Division. “It’s a sad day when we have to investigate someone who took an oath to uphold the law. His actions undermine the integrity of the criminal justice system, and I want the public to know we will not tolerate it. The FBI is committed to investigating criminal misconduct, no matter who the subject is or what position they hold in their community.”

    The other deputy involved in the assault, DeMarkes Grant, previously pleaded guilty to one count of obstructing justice in connection with the assault. He was sentenced to 10 months in prison.

    The FBI New Orleans Field Office investigated the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth Reeg for the Western District of Louisiana and Trial Attorney Erin Monju of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section prosecuted the case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Volume and price statistics of external merchandise trade in August 2024

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Volume and price statistics of external merchandise trade in August 2024
    Volume and price statistics of external merchandise trade in August 2024
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         Further to the external merchandise trade statistics in value terms for August 2024 released earlier on, the Census and Statistics Department (C&SD) released today (October 17) the volume and price statistics of external merchandise trade for that month.      In August 2024, the volume of Hong Kong’s total exports of goods and imports of goods increased by 3.1% and 4.9% respectively over August 2023.      Comparing the first eight months of 2024 with the same period in 2023, the volume of Hong Kong’s total exports of goods and imports of goods increased by 7.2% and 4.2% respectively.      Comparing the three-month period ending August 2024 with the preceding three months on a seasonally adjusted basis, the volume of total exports of goods decreased by 0.1%, while the volume of imports of goods increased by 4.7%.      Changes in volume of external merchandise trade are derived from changes in external merchandise trade value with the effect of price changes discounted.      Comparing August 2024 with August 2023, the prices of total exports of goods and imports of goods increased by 3.1% and 2.6% respectively.      As regards price changes in the first eight months of 2024 over the same period in 2023, the prices of total exports of goods and imports of goods increased by 4.0% and 3.5% respectively.      Price changes in external merchandise trade are reflected by changes in unit value indices of external merchandise trade, which are compiled based on average unit values or, for certain commodities, specific price data.      The terms of trade index is derived from the ratio of price index of total exports of goods to that of imports of goods. Compared with the same periods in 2023, the index increased by 0.5% in August 2024 and 0.4% in the first eight months of 2024.     Changes in the unit value and volume of total exports of goods by main destination are shown in Table 1.      Comparing August 2024 with August 2023, increases were recorded for the total export volume to Vietnam (23.9%), the mainland of China (the Mainland) (8.6%) and Taiwan (7.0%). On the other hand, the total export volume to the USA (-2.0%) and India (-20.3%) decreased.      Over the same period of comparison, the total export prices to the USA (5.3%), the Mainland (3.9%), Taiwan (3.5%) and Vietnam (2.1%) increased. On the other hand, the total export prices to India decreased by 1.8%.      Changes in the unit value and volume of imports of goods by main supplier are shown in Table 2.      Comparing August 2024 with August 2023, increases were recorded for the import volume from Singapore (21.3%), Korea (14.5%), the Mainland (6.8%) and Taiwan (6.8%). On the other hand, the import volume from Japan decreased by 0.4%.      Over the same period of comparison, the import prices from all main suppliers increased: Singapore (5.2%), Korea (4.6%), the Mainland (2.9%), Japan (0.9%) and Taiwan (0.4%). Further information      Details of the above statistics are published in the August 2024 issue of “Hong Kong Merchandise Trade Index Numbers”. Users can browse and download the report at the website of the C&SD (www.censtatd.gov.hk/en/EIndexbySubject.html?pcode=B1020006&scode=230).      Enquiries on merchandise trade indices may be directed to the Trade Analysis Section of the C&SD (Tel: 2582 4918).

     
    Ends/Thursday, October 17, 2024Issued at HKT 16:30

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –