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Category: KB

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko congratulated teachers on their professional holiday

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Dmitry Chernyshenko congratulated teachers on their professional holiday

    10 hours ago

    Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko congratulated teachers on their professional holiday – Teachers’ Day.

    The Deputy Prime Minister called them “unique people who chose for themselves a noble, responsible and difficult task – teaching and raising children.”

    Today in Russia there are over 1.3 million teaching staff, of which over 1 million are teachers. They share knowledge with students, shape their worldview, motivate, help them think independently, and instill traditional spiritual and moral values.

    “It is especially important today to realize the potential of children, develop their talents, and educate patriotic and socially responsible citizens. This is a national goal set by President Vladimir Putin. And your daily hard work helps us achieve it. Together with you, we are preparing future scientists, engineers, analysts, IT specialists – a generation that will strengthen the technological sovereignty of the country,” Dmitry Chernyshenko emphasized.

    The development of the education system is a priority for the Government. In Russia, the national project “Education” will soon be completed, and a new national project – “Youth and Children” – will begin to operate.

    “We will continue to create a modern educational infrastructure – build schools, colleges and lyceums, equip them with all the necessary equipment,” the Deputy Prime Minister noted.

    Dmitry Chernyshenko also said that he himself remembers the life lessons of his teachers with great warmth and gratitude.

    “Dear teachers! Thank you for your loyalty to the profession that you have chosen at the call of your heart. I wish you good health, well-being, creative success and responsive students. Happy Teacher’s Day!” the Deputy Prime Minister concluded.

    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://government.ru/nevs/52905/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The government has allocated 9 billion rubles for the construction and reconstruction of sections that will be part of the M-12 “Vostok” highway

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Order dated October 4, 2024 No. 2750-r

    Document

    Order dated October 4, 2024 No. 2750-r

    9 billion rubles have been allocated for the advanced construction and reconstruction of four sections of highways needed to extend the M-12 “Vostok” highway from Kazan to Yekaterinburg. The order to this effect was signed by Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin.

    We are talking about the construction of bypasses of the cities of Nizhnekamsk and Naberezhnye Chelny in Tatarstan, a bypass of the settlements of Isametovo, Verkhneyarkeevo, Layashty, Ishkarovo, Asyanovo in Bashkiria, as well as the reconstruction of two more road sections in the Republic of Tatarstan.

    The decision will allow traffic to be launched on new sections of roads by the end of 2024, which, like the entire M-12 “Vostok” highway, will become part of the “Russia” international transport corridor.

    The signed order is necessary to implement the President’s instruction concerning increasing the pace of construction of the Moscow-Nizhny Novgorod-Kazan high-speed highway and extending it to Yekaterinburg. The head of state gave it following his Address to the Federal Assembly in 2021.

    The issue was considered and approved atGovernment meeting on October 3.

    The work is being carried out within the framework of the federal project “Development of the federal highway network” of the national project “Safe high-quality roads”.

    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://government.ru/nevs/52907/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: WHO approves 1st mpox diagnostic test for emergency use

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    The World Health Organization (WHO) said on Friday that it has approved the first diagnostic test for mpox, marking a significant milestone in expanding global access to mpox testing.

    The approval comes as Africa continues to struggle with limited testing capacity, which fueled the spread of the virus. Over 30,000 suspected mpox cases have been reported across the continent in 2024, with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Burundi, and Nigeria being the most affected.

    In the DRC, only 37 percent of suspected cases have been tested this year, according to the global health agency.

    The test, known as Alinity m MPXV assay, will boost diagnostic capacity in countries facing mpox outbreaks, where rapid and accurate testing is crucial.

    The Alinity m MPXV assay is a real-time PCR test designed to detect mpox virus DNA from human skin lesion swabs, enabling laboratory and health workers to confirm cases quickly.

    “This first mpox diagnostic test listed under the Emergency Use Listing procedure represents a significant milestone in expanding testing availability in affected countries,” said Yukiko Nakatani, WHO’s assistant director-general for access to medicines and health products. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: To the Russian State Symphony Orchestra of Cinematography

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    On October 5, the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Russian State Symphony Orchestra of Cinematography will be celebrated.

    Dear friends!

    Please accept my sincere congratulations on the 100th anniversary of the Russian State Cinema Symphony Orchestra.

    Over its centuries-long history, the legendary group has become an integral part of the cultural life of our country, giving millions of viewers bright, memorable melodies, many of which have graced the best films of outstanding domestic directors and received popular recognition.

    All these years, your renowned orchestra has made an invaluable contribution to the preservation and popularization of the national musical heritage, continues to develop established traditions, and takes an active part in the implementation of large-scale creative projects. Under the guidance of renowned conductors, talented professionals, infinitely devoted to art, demonstrate the highest level of performing skills, mastery of various styles, genres and trends, honed technique and artistry, which allow them to implement the most daring ideas, master new formats, and create unique programs. Your performances are always popular with the public, become an event and remain in the memory of listeners for a long time.

    I wish you inexhaustible inspiration, further success and prosperity.

    M. Mishustin

    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://government.ru/gov/persons/151/telegrams/52912/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: To Sergei Skripka, People’s Artist of Russia

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Mikhail Mishustin congratulated the artistic director and chief conductor of the Russian State Symphony Orchestra of Cinematography on his 75th birthday.

    The telegram, in particular, notes:

    “An outstanding conductor, a renowned teacher, you have written many bright pages in the annals of the Russian State Symphony Orchestra of Cinematography, and made a significant contribution to the development of national culture and art.

    For many years, under your leadership, the renowned group has been masterfully performing masterpieces of world classics and modern works of various styles and genres, which have become an integral part of domestic and foreign films.

    I wish you creative success, good health and prosperity.”

    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://government.ru/gov/persons/151/telegrams/52913/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Photos: Rubio Visits Barrier Islands Post-Hurricane Helene

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Florida Marco Rubio

    Photos: Rubio Visits Barrier Islands Post-Hurricane Helene
    Oct 4, 2024 | Press Releases

    Following Hurricane Helene’s catastrophic damage throughout Florida’s Gulf Coast, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) met with local officials and volunteers from the barrier islands to discuss the storm’s impact and current recovery efforts. 
    Photos are courtesy of Senator Rubio’s office.

    Senator Rubio gets a briefing from Gulf Coast barrier island officials.

    Senator Rubio thanks volunteers from the Florida Division of Emergency Management.

    Senator Rubio meets with members of the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Anderson Road project probed

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Buildings Department has found the number of steel reinforcements installed at a development project at Anderson Road to be lower than required by the approved plans. Works have been suspended at the site since September 28 to allow investigations.

     

    In response to media enquiries today, the department said it received a report in late August alleging that the steel reinforcements in some structural elements of the project had not been installed in accordance with the requirements of the Buildings Ordinance (BO).

     

    The department stressed that it is taking the matter very seriously and has deployed staff to the site four times since early September to inspect site operations, work quality, site safety and more.

     

    During an inspection on September 26, the department found that the number of steel reinforcements installed on six beams located on 29/F of Tower 3 was fewer than that stipulated in the approved plans.

     

    It stressed that there was no obvious danger to the overall structure.

     

    As neither the representative of the registered structural engineer (RSE) nor the representative of the registered contractor (RC) could provide a reasonable explanation immediately that day, the department’s staff met the RSE the following day and requested that he submit a detailed investigation and remedial works report, including carrying out sampling tests to determine whether similar situations existed on other floors of Tower 3 and in other towers.

     

    Additionally, the department requested that site supervision be strengthened, and decreed that works at the site cannot resume until it is satisfied with the report and site supervision arrangements. The department will consider appropriate enforcement action upon receipt of the RSE’s report.

     

    Meanwhile, the department is reviewing superstructure works carried out by the same contractor at seven other private developments and will step up site inspections.

     

    Of the eight private development projects concerned, four were taken over from Aggressive Construction Engineering Limited (ACEL), which was removed from the register of general building contractors in November last year.

     

    The RC involved in the incident was another independent contractor. Under the department’s registration system, an RC must have a suitable authorised signatory (AS) to supervise its works.

     

    The AS of the RC involved in this incident was not the one used by ACEL, the latter AS having failed to have its registration renewed last year.

     

    The Anderson Road development project comprises six multi-storey residential towers. Towers 1, 2 and 3 are 32 storeys high, while Towers 5, 6 and 7 are 24 storeys high.

     

    Superstructure works on all six towers were underway prior to the investigation, with concreting works completed at various levels. Nine single-storey houses will also be built in the development.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney Simonton Alerts Public to Charity Scams in Wake of Hurricane Helene

    Source: United States Department of Justice (National Center for Disaster Fraud)

    United States Attorney Leigha Simonton issued a public safety alert today advising the public to be vigilant to hurricane relief fraud in the wake of Hurricane Helene.

    “North Texans are some of the most generous people I know,” said U.S. Attorney Leigha Simonton, the Northern District of Texas’ chief federal law enforcement officer. “We’ve all been impacted by the devastating images of Helene’s aftermath and are looking for ways to help. The best way to ensure your donations make a difference is to route them through a legitimate charity. Please, be vigilant for scams. Unfortunately, some fraudsters will stop at nothing to make a quick buck – even if it means exploiting a natural disaster and preventing funds from reaching the actual victims who are in need.”  

    On Sept. 26, Hurricane Helene made landfall in Florida’s Big Bend Region and quickly caused major devastation there and across states including Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, and others. 

    As we have seen in the wake of previous national disasters, fraudsters will target victims of the storm along with citizens across the country who want to do what they can to assist individuals affected by the storm. 

    Unfortunately, criminals exploit disasters for their own gain by sending fraudulent communications through email or social media and by creating deceiving websites designed to solicit contributions.

    The public should exercise diligence before giving contributions to anyone soliciting donations or individuals offering to assist those affected by Hurricane Helene. Solicitations can originate from phone calls, texts, social media, e-mail, door-to-door collections, flyers, mailings, and other similar methods. Before making a donation to benefit victims of Hurricane Helene, individuals should adhere to certain guidelines, including:

    • Make contributions directly to known organizations rather than relying on others to make the donation on your behalf.
    • Do not be pressured into making contributions as reputable charities do not use such tactics.
    • Do not respond to any unsolicited communications (e.g., e-mails and texts), and never click links contained within those messages because they may be targeting your personal information, to include bank and credit card account information, and other identifiers such as dates of birth and social security numbers.
    • Rather than clicking on a purported link to a charity, verify its legitimacy by utilizing various Internet-based resources that may assist in confirming whether the organization is a valid charity.
    • Beware of organizations with copy-cat names similar to but not exactly the same as those of reputable charities.
    • Avoid cash donations if possible. Pay by credit card or write a check directly to the charity. Do not make checks payable to individuals.
    • Know that legitimate charities do not normally solicit donations via money transfer services, and their website will normally end in .org rather than .com.
    • Be cautious of e-mails that claim to show pictures of the disaster areas in attached files because the files may contain viruses. Only open attachments from known senders.

    The U.S. Department of Justice established the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) in the wake of Hurricane Katrina to deter, investigate, and prosecute fraud in the wake of disasters. More than 50 federal, state, and local agencies participate in the NCDF, which reminds the public to be aware of and report any instances of alleged fraudulent activity related to relief operations and funding for victims. Complaints of fraud may be reported online at http://www.justice.gov/DisasterComplaintForm. Complaints may also be reported to the NCDF at (866) 720-5721, a hotline that is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Baseball5 event awarded ‘M’ Mark

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Major Sports Events Committee announced today that it has awarded “M” Mark status to the WBSC Baseball5 World Cup 2024, which will be held at the Central Harbourfront Event Space from Monday to next Saturday.

    Major Sports Events Committee Chairman Wilfred Ng said Baseball5, which breaks away from conventional baseball, will provide a thrilling experience for global audiences while contributing to Hong Kong’s local economy and sports development.

    He added that he believes that the event will be an important milestone in promoting the popularity of Baseball5 in the community.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: To Alexander Mikhailov, People’s Artist of Russia

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Mikhail Mishustin congratulated the actor and director on his 80th birthday.

    The telegram, in particular, notes:

    “You have brilliantly played dozens of memorable roles on the stage and in cinema. Films with your participation have entered the golden fund of Russian cinema and are popular with several generations of viewers. You have successfully realized yourself not only as an actor, director and singer, but also as a wonderful teacher. For many years, you have been passing on knowledge and experience to VGIK students, sharing the secrets of your craft.

    I wish you good health and prosperity.”

    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://government.ru/gov/persons/151/telegrams/52914/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Rule of law recognised: Deputy SJ

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Deputy Secretary for Justice Cheung Kwok-kwan said today that Hong Kong people should have every confidence in the city’s legal system given that both serving overseas judges and others who have just left fully recognise the rule of law in the city.

    Mr Cheung also told reporters this morning that he fully recognises the contributions made by the overseas judges in Hong Kong.

    He added: “Several of them left, maybe for different reasons, some for personal reasons and some for other reasons that may not be disclosed.

    Mr Cheung iterated that he is certain that the Judiciary will continue to look for other outstanding judges in overseas jurisdictions.

    “I will say that we recognise their contributions. But, as you can see, many excellent common law jurisdictions in the world, they do not have such kind of mechanism.

    “The mechanism of overseas judges is a unique feature of our system, but it doesn’t mean that if you do not have overseas judges, you do not have good rule of law, as you can see from the other examples of other jurisdictions all over the world.”

    He urged Hong Kong people to have confidence in the city’s rule of law.

    “We should recognise that there are very good remarks made by the other serving overseas judges in Hong Kong and overseas judges who just left; they fully recognise the rule of law in Hong Kong and we must have every confidence in our own rule of law, in our legal system.”

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Lu Chuan’s sci-fi gamble ‘Bureau 749’ debuts after 8-year struggle

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Among the many ambitious projects in Chinese cinema, few stories rival that of director Lu Chuan’s epic undertaking, “Bureau 749.” The film, conceived as early as 2016, aimed to be a cutting-edge sci-fi spectacle with Hollywood-caliber visual effects. However, its path to completion became a tumultuous saga marked by financial hurdles, production challenges and a relentless pursuit of artistic vision.

    The Sept. 29 premiere in Beijing was charged with emotion as cast, crew and audience members were moved upon finally seeing the film on the big screen. During the eight-year journey, more than 6,000 people contributed to the project, experiencing hardship, despair and joy along the way.

    “It’s been really hard for us these past few years, and now it’s time for us to present it to the audience and let them enjoy it and judge,” Lu said.

    “Bureau 749” draws inspiration from a real but enigmatic Chinese government agency that has become an urban legend. It’s known only for conducting research and expeditions to study unusual phenomena, including reportedly supernatural individuals and events. Lu has mentioned that he worked in that government organ for some time after graduating from the People’s Liberation Army Institute of International Relations. To reassure viewers, Lu invited former colleagues to the premiere.

    Regardless of what he saw in that secretive agency, Lu gained imaginative ideas for filmmaking. He first showcased these concepts in his 2015 sci-fi monster and tomb raider blockbuster “Chronicles of the Ghostly Tribe,” before embarking on a new feature film dedicated entirely to the bureau in 2016. Lu also infused the project with personal meaning, making it a tribute to his youth.

    “Bureau 749” stars young pop idol Karry Wang, actors Zheng Kai and Miao Miao — who met on set, married, and now have three children — along with Ren Min, Xin Baiqing and Li Chen. As they stood on stage at the premiere, they reflected on the passage of time and how their lives had evolved during the film’s production.

    The film follows the agents of Bureau 749 as they attempt to use a mutant child’s superpowers to combat a massive alien monster threatening a Chinese city. It features more than 1,700 visual effects shots and presents epic-scale disaster and action sequences that are designed to wow viewers.

    Lu envisioned and initiated the grand project with a budget of 350 million yuan ($50 million) during the golden era of Chinese cinema. The cameras started rolling in Chongqing in 2018, despite only 30% of the promised investment materializing. The situation soon changed dramatically as Chinese tax authorities tightened regulations on the film industry’s financial practices, causing some capital to retreat from movie businesses. The COVID-19 pandemic followed, further dimming the prospects for “Bureau 749.”

    Initially, the director hired Hollywood’s top talents to realize his vision, including renowned cinematographer David Tattersall, who worked on classics like “Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith” and “The Green Mile.” Lu also brought in professionals who had worked on blockbusters such as “Avatar” and “Mad Max: Fury Road.” However, he soon discovered these experts were costly assets and had to let them go when financial crises arose. Lu was forced to cut spending in all aspects until the initial filming wrap in July 2019.

    The post-production of a visual effects-heavy blockbuster at this level proved even more costly. At one point, Lu faced debts exceeding 25 million yuan, five lawsuits triggered by production and release delays, and contractual obligations to investors. Desperate to find funding, the director enrolled in an MBA program to learn about finance and took on various jobs. These included making a dozen commercials and creating online series. Every bit of money he earned went toward funding “Bureau 749.”

    With unwavering persistence and support from industry peers, mentors and convinced investors, including Huayi Brothers Media, Huawen Picture and Beijing Culture, Lu overcame the darkest days and ultimately completed the film. After additional filming concluded on April 22, Lu posted on social media, “I have no regrets. After eight years of dragging this ship, we can finally reach the shore.”

    At the premiere’s conclusion, when asked if he had anything else to say to the audience, Lu paused emotionally. After a moment’s reflection, he simply said, “Thank you.”

    “Bureau 749” hit Chinese theaters during the seven-day National Day holiday starting Oct. 1, attracting flocks of viewers and grossing more than 300 million yuan within the first four days of the holiday. However, the various financial setbacks and production challenges have clearly impacted the film, resulting in inconsistent visual effects, plot issues and dated elements. Since its release, the film has garnered mixed reviews and sparked controversy.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: The ECB Podcast – “Swiftflation”, banknotes and the digital euro

    Source: European Central Bank (video statements)

    What do Taylor Swift concerts have to do with inflation? When could the digital euro be out? And what will our future euro banknotes look like?

    In this special #AskECB episode, our guests answer your questions as we mark The ECB Podcast’s fifth birthday.

    The views expressed are those of the speakers and not necessarily those of the European Central Bank.

    Published on 1 October.

    In this episode:

    01:40 – Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour and inflation
    Can individual events, like concerts or football tournaments, affect inflation? Guido Wolswijk, who works on monetary policy at the ECB, explains what “funflation” is and how we monitor it.

    8:14 – Our 2% target
    What happens if one euro area country has an inflation rate higher than 2%? What can the ECB do in such cases?

    11:19 – The digital euro
    What might the digital euro be like? Erica Ricci, who works in the digital euro team, tells us about the project and its next steps.

    14:50 – The digital euro and private payment providers
    What could users expect from the digital euro? And would it replace apps like PayPal in the euro area?

    17:38 – New euro banknotes
    When will the design contest for our future euro banknotes begin? Satu Hietanen from the banknotes team tells us more about the upcoming competition to design the third series of euro banknotes.

    Further reading:

    Why are stable prices important
    https://www.ecb.europa.eu/ecb-and-you/explainers/tell-me-more/html/stableprices.en.html

    Two percent target inflation
    https://www.ecb.europa.eu/mopo/strategy/pricestab/html/index.en.html

    What would a digital euro be
    https://www.ecb.europa.eu/euro/digital_euro/features/html/index.en.html

    Future banknotes
    https://www.ecb.europa.eu/euro/banknotes/future_banknotes/html/index.en.html

    Explore our banknotes in 3D
    https://www.ecb.europa.eu/euro/banknotes/current/denominations/html/index.en.html#es2-100

    European Central Bank
    http://www.ecb.europa.eu

    European Banking Supervision https://www.bankingsupervision.europa.eu/home/html/index.en.html

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wq_Cmeg7zrw

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: “Senior Police Call Share the Love 2024” launched today (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Senior Police Call (SPC) officially launched the “SPC Share the Love 2024” today (October 5) to distribute blessing bags to the needy in society to express love and care. At the same time, the scheme also demonstrated the SPC spirit of “helping oneself and others”.
          
         Officiating at the kick-off ceremony held at the Police Sports and Recreation Club this morning, the Commissioner of Police, Mr Siu Chak-yee, said that to mark the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, the HKSAR Government had launched various celebratory activities with the theme of “Love our Country, Love Hong Kong, Love our Community”. He added that this year also holds special significance to the “SPC Share the Love” as it also marks the 10th anniversary of the SPC.
          
         Mr Siu reminded the elderly to raise awareness on road safety and emphasised that nurturing the elderly to become the Police’s fight crime partners has always been the mission of the SPC. He expressed gratitude to the members for joining hands with the Police to fight crime over the years. He also thanked all sectors of society for supporting the SPC and assisting the Police in disseminating anti-crime and road safety messages, thereby enhancing the elderly’s happiness as well as fostering a sense of satisfaction and belonging in the community.
          
         During the ceremony, members of the Yuen Long District SPC and the World Nunchaku Association (HKNA) presented a spectacular nunchaku performance to the audience, along with the song “The Chinese”. In addition, by staging a drama, SPC ambassador, Mr Ng Tai-keung, reminded the senior citizens to stay alert to recent scams where fraudsters impersonate the staff of social welfare organisations to obtain personal information of the elderly under the pretext of handing out money or other benefits.

         After the ceremony, Mr Siu and the Deputy Commissioner (Operations), Mr Chow Yat-ming, another officiating guest, visited Caritas Elderly Centre – Ngau Tau Kok in Choi Ying Estate and Pok Oi Hospital Mr Kwok Hing Kwan Neighbourhood Elderly Centre in Hoi Lai Estate respectively to call on the elderly and distribute the blessing bags with food and daily necessities.

         In addition, from today until October 11, two “SPC Fight Crime Vigour” publicity trucks will tour various districts across Hong Kong to disseminate crime prevention messages. During this period, the Police Community Relations Offices and SPC members from 22 police districts will distribute blessing bags to the needy in the community to demonstrate the Force’s motto of “Serving Hong Kong” and express love and care to the elderly, in pursuit of the SPC spirit of “helping oneself and others”.

         Other officiating guests of the ceremony included the Chairperson of SPC Central Advisory Board (CAB) cum the Regional Commander of Hong Kong Island, Mr Kwok Ka-chuen; the Vice-Chairperson of SPC CAB cum the Chief Superintendent of Public Relations Wing, Mr Leung Chung-man; and representatives of SPC CAB, Ms Ng Yin-mui; Dr Dominic Chu Chun-ho; Mr Wilfred Ng Sau-kei; and Dr Malcolm Lam Wai-wing. Furthermore, a number of members of SPC CAB also attended the ceremony and participated in the distribution of blessing bags.

         Launched in February 2014 with the motto – “SPC Spirit Helping Oneself and Others”, the SPC Scheme is open to anyone aged 55 or above. Through this scheme, the Hong Kong Police Force hopes to provide an effective platform for the elderly to maintain close contacts with the Force, and to participate in meaningful activities as well as to serve the community. It also provides training for the members to promote crime prevention.                     

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Cross-border RMB use up over 20% in first eight months

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    The renminbi (RMB) has been used more frequently in cross-border trade in the first eight months of this year amid the growing presence of the Chinese currency in the global market, a central bank report showed.

    The People’s Bank of China’s 2024 report on the internalization of RMB reported that cross-border RMB payments and receipts expanded 21.1 percent year on year to 41.6 trillion yuan (5.94 trillion U.S. dollars) in the January-August period.

    According to the report, in the first eight months, cross-border RMB payments and receipts in trade in goods accounted for 26.5 percent of the total settlement of local and foreign currencies in the same period, up from 24.8 percent in 2023.

    For trade in services, cross-border RMB use increased 22.3 percent year on year to 1.2 trillion yuan, accounting for 31.8 percent of the total.

    The report also noted improvements in RMB’s function in terms of investment and financing. By the end of August, foreign investors held around 4.6 trillion yuan of Chinese bonds, accounting for 2.7 percent of the total domestic bonds in custody.

    Cross-border RMB settlement for major commodities amounted to 1.5 trillion yuan in the eight-month reporting period, a 22.7 percent year-on-year increase.

    For the next stage, the central bank said it will improve the fundamental institutional arrangements for the cross-border use of RMB, further open up the financial market, strengthen financial infrastructures and enhance regulation over cross-border RMB businesses. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s import expo shows its commitment to opening-up

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

    SHANGHAI, Oct. 5 — With the seventh China International Import Expo approaching, global exhibitors are gearing up for the expo, which will take place in Shanghai starting Nov. 5.

    According to the CIIE Bureau, more than 70 countries and international organizations have confirmed their participation in the country exhibition section of the CIIE. Norway, Slovakia, Benin, Burundi, Madagascar and UNICEF will participate for the first time, and the total number of exhibitors in the section is expected to exceed that of the sixth CIIE.

    The 7th Hongqiao International Economic Forum, themed “High-Standard Opening up for Universally Beneficial and Inclusive Economic Globalization,” will include a main forum and 19 sub-forums.

    Some new debuts at the business exhibition are sure to catch the eyes of many. For example, French firm Michelin will debut a lunar wheel prototype at the Expo for the first time in Asia. The lunar wheel can adapt to extremely harsh conditions on the moon, including temperature differences from day to night.

    “In my opinion, the CIIE not only reflects China’s economic and trade dynamic, but also the country’s determination to promote high-level opening-up, and pursue high-quality development,” Mohammed Tawil, president and CEO of Boehringer-Ingelheim Greater China said.

    Mohammed Tawil noted the example of Spevigo, a therapy for treating rare skin diseases. After the therapy debuted at the third CIIE in 2020 as a pipeline product for the company, Sepvigo was officially approved in China in 2022 and simultaneously with the United States and European Union. This year, in March, Spevigo’s new indication was also approved in China, ahead of major markets like the United States, EU, and Japan.

    “Boehringer-Ingelheim sees China as a focus market and a source of innovation. We have firmly believed that this market is of high potential, and we firmly believe the resilience of the Chinese market as well. We appreciate the continuous improvement of the business environment that we operate in,” said Mohammed Tawil.

    Nicolas Hieronimus, CEO of French firm L’Oréal, visited the firm’s newly opened intelligent and automatized fulfillment center in Suzhou during his recent trip to China.

    According to Hieronimus, the company wants to continue to invest in China not only because it believes in the market’s potential but also because it sees the conditions for doing so and the support it is getting from the authorities.

    “For us, CIIE is a unique event, and it’s unique in the world. There is no other event in the world of such magnitude first, but also where L’Oréal is so strongly present, and where we introduce brands, new technologies, innovation, sustainability programs,” said Hieronimus.

    As the world’s first national-level import-themed expo, the CIIE attracted representatives from 154 countries, regions, and international organizations last year. More than 3,400 enterprises took part in the business exhibition.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Celebrating 75th anniversary of people’s republic, China more confident and tenacious in modernization cause

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

    Celebrating 75th anniversary of people’s republic, China more confident and tenacious in modernization cause

    BEIJING, Oct. 5 — As people from all walks of life nationwide celebrate the 75th founding anniversary of New China, they embrace a brighter future thanks to the all-around progress of Chinese modernization.

    The strong confidence and firm conviction of the Chinese people in national development prospects can be demonstrated by a national flag-raising ceremony at Tian’anmen Square in downtown Beijing on Oct. 1, the National Day. More than 120,000 people from across the country watched the ceremony on-site.

    Indeed, the Chinese people have every reason to feel pride and confidence. Over the past 75 years, China has transformed from a poor and backward nation into the world’s second-largest economy, achieving moderate prosperity across the board. Living standards have improved significantly. In a historic achievement, the country has eradicated absolute poverty, thanks to decades of hard and consistent efforts. Major benefits from education, social security, and medical care systems — all the largest in the world — have greatly enhanced people’s sense of fulfillment and happiness.

    Under the leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC), China has achieved the dual miracles of rapid economic growth and long-term social stability, charting a new path for humanity toward modernization. In just a few decades, China has completed a process of industrialization that took developed countries centuries to achieve.

    The Chinese nation is undergoing a significant transformation, from standing up to becoming prosperous and strong. These remarkable accomplishments are driven by strong CPC leadership, improvement and innovations in various systems and the implementation and deepening of reforms and opening-up policies.

    These achievements are the result of the tenacious struggles of generations and the spirit of self-improvement of the Chinese nation. Over the past 75 years, China has overcome numerous difficulties and hardships. Chinese modernization dispels the myth that “modernization equals Westernization” and opens new channels for developing countries to pursue their own paths. China’s dynamic development has debunked the “End of History” theory and the “China collapse” narrative. The misleading Western narratives and hegemonic moves targeting China only highlight that no difficulties or suppression can hinder the progress of the resilient Chinese people.

    After 75 years of strenuous endeavors, Chinese modernization — with green and peaceful development among its major hallmarks — has opened a magnificent chapter and presented promising prospects. However, the road ahead won’t be smooth. In the face of challenges, the Chinese people are more confident than ever in their ability to achieve new successes. Additionally, through the Belt and Road Initiative and other efforts, China is committed to collaborating with other countries to promote shared modernization.

    The landmark third plenum of the 20th CPC Central Committee in July this year outlined plans for comprehensive reforms and proposed more than 300 major measures to inject new vitality and sustainable momentum into the country’s modernization drive. This underscores the CPC’s resolve and wisdom in achieving new milestones in national development over the next five years.

    The wheels of history keep turning. China has embarked on an irreversible journey toward the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation. With a steadfast commitment to a people-centered development philosophy and a vision for a shared future for humanity, China is poised to reach new heights in its modernization efforts and make significant contributions to global peace and development.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HK airport unparalleled on cargo

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Transport & Logistics Lam Sai-hung

    Following the promotion of Ying Ying and Le Le to parenthood with the birth of a pair of panda twins in mid-August, another pair of giant pandas currently named An An and Ke Ke, gifted by the central government, arrived in Hong Kong last Thursday from Sichuan comfortably and safely on our local flagship airline’s flight, showcasing the world-class level of temperature-controlled logistics provided by our airlines and the Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA).

    World first on partner airport accreditations

    HKIA is unparalleled globally in its capability to handle special air cargo, achieving multiple firsts.

    Since 2017, HKIA has been recognised by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) as a Partner Airport of the IATA’s Centre of Excellence for Independent Validators (CEIV). It has received certifications for Pharmaceutical Cold Chain Transportation (IATA CEIV Pharma), Fresh Cargo Transportation (IATA CEIV Fresh), Live Animals Transportation (IATA CEIV Live Animals) and Lithium Batteries (IATA CEIV Lithium Batteries) and is the first airport in the world to attain the full suite of CEIV certifications from IATA for handling special air cargo.

    The certification for Live Animals Transportation not only allows the transport of pandas but also covers pets such as cats and dogs, as well as horses, leopards, and llamas, among others. Local air logistics companies have made significant progress in this area over the past few years. In March 2020, two air cargo terminals located at HKIA, namely Cathay Pacific Services Limited and Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals – were the first to obtain the Live Animals Transportation certification and Cathay Pacific Cargo subsequently became the third airline in the world to receive this certification. In December 2022, HKIA became the first airport community globally to obtain this certification. Currently, all cargo terminal operators at HKIA meet the IATA CEIV standards for transporting special cargo, making it one of the few airports in the world to achieve this level of certification. This demonstrates Hong Kong’s comprehensive strength in handling live animal transportation and further enhances our status as a hub for air cargo, especially in handling special cargo.

    Cathay Cargo escorts the giant pandas to Hong Kong

    An An and Ke Ke were transported directly from Sichuan to Ocean Park, arranged and sponsored by Cathay Cargo. You may have seen various media reports about the meticulous arrangements for the two VIPs’ arrival: a support team comprising 90 professionals across difference agencies worked closely with the airline to ensure the pandas’ health and safety; two experts from Sichuan and two caregivers from Ocean Park accompanied the pandas throughout the flight, etc. Specially designed crates were also used for their transportation to maintain a constant temperature of around 20 degrees Celsius inflight, with ample natural light and good ventilation. The crates were also equipped with Bluetooth devices, allowing the control centre to monitor the temperature and humidity inside the crates.

    Apart from taking good care of the giant pandas’ transportation, their food, bamboo leaves, are also imported from the mainland. Bamboo leaves for Hong Kong’s giant pandas are mainly grown in Conghua, Guangzhou and are freshly transported to Hong Kong every day where transportation starts before 10am. Previously, the bamboo leaves needed to first arrive in Tianhe District from Conghua before arriving in Hung Hom through the Guangzhou Kowloon Intercity Through Train, followed by delivery to Ocean Park. Thanks to the co-operation between customs on both sides and the increasingly improved transportation network within the Greater Bay Area, bamboo leaves now arrive at Ocean Park directly via point-to-point land transportation.

    The pair of giant pandas is expected to meet the public by the end of this year, and I am very much looking forward to visiting them. Their successful arrival once again proves the exceptional standard of our world-class air logistics. I am sure the HKIA community will continue to strive for excellence and maintain Hong Kong’s good name as an international aviation hub.

    Secretary for Transport & Logistics Lam Sai-hung wrote this article and posted it on his blog on October 5.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Marines Deliver Emergency Relief to Philippines

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    CAMP COURTNEY, OKINAWA, Japan  –  

    CAMP COURTNEY, OKINAWA, Japan – At the request of the Government of the Republic of the Philippines, Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin directed U.S. Indo-Pacific Command to support the U.S. Agency for International Development’s efforts in foreign disaster relief operations in the Philippines following Typhoon Krathon (locally known as Julian), which made landfall on the Province of Cagayan, Philippines Sep. 30.

    III Marine Expeditionary Force, directed by USINDOPACOM, has sent personnel and equipment to transport foreign disaster relief (FDR) supplies via KC-130J Hercules aircraft to affected locations within the Republic of the Philippines. They will join personnel from I MEF’s 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit and Marine Rotational Force – Southeast Asia, who are already located in-country for training, to facilitate the efficient distribution of materials. Humanitarian assistance supplies include tarps, shelter kits, food packets, and other non-food items. Two Marine Corps KC-130Js departed Okinawa, Japan, and arrived in Manila on Oct. 5 in order to support the on-going relief efforts.

    The U.S. military is providing air transport and other assistance in coordination with the Armed Forces of the Philippines through the U.S. Department of Defense Overseas Humanitarian, Disaster, and Civic Aid Program.

    FDR training is incorporated into nearly every major exercise conducted by Ill MEF. Recurrent crisis response training enhances operational readiness and develops joint interoperability during times of crises. The U.S. military has partnered and trained with our Philippine Allies regularly on FDR operations – including during exercises such as Balikatan and KAMANDAG – which prepare our forces for the challenges associated with extreme circumstances.

    For more information or media coverage requests, please contact Capt. Mark McDonough, MRF-SEA Communication Strategy and Operations, at mark.mcdonough@usmc.mil

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement by the Prime Minister on World Teachers’ Day

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on World Teachers’ Day:

    “Teachers are the best. They help us learn and grow. They encourage curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. They pick us up when we fall. And they’re our guides and mentors when we need that extra push to succeed.

    “We all have a favourite teacher. The one who comforted us when we didn’t feel confident. The one who, despite being asked a thousand questions, would happily answer all of them. The one who made learning fun.

    “This year’s theme – ‘Valuing teachers’ voices: towards a new social contract for education’ – highlights the critical role of educators in supporting and shaping our future. Whether it’s in the classroom or in extracurricular programs, as early childhood educators or counsellors, or as coaches or mentors, teachers build the foundations to help every generation reach its full potential.

    “With the Prime Minister’s Awards for Teaching Excellence, Teaching Excellence in STEM, and Excellence in Early Childhood Education, we thank the outstanding educators across the country for their dedication to their students and communities. Today, I am pleased to launch the call for nominations for the 2025 awards. I invite Canadians to nominate an outstanding educator from their community who has made a real difference in their life, or in the life of one of their children.

    “The federal government is making sure teachers and students have what they need to succeed. With programs like CanCode, we are providing professional development opportunities for 100,000 teachers. This will help over nine million students gain skills in areas such as coding and artificial intelligence over the next two years. With our new National School Food Program, we will get healthy meals for up to 400,000 more kids in school – because teachers know that students learn better on a full stomach.

    “Beyond our borders, initiatives such as the Global Partnership for Education and the Simameni project are increasing access to quality education, particularly in low-income and crisis-affected countries. And as part of our work toward the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, Canada is playing its part in making learning more inclusive for young students, no matter where they come from.

    “Some of my best memories are from my time as a teacher. I was proud to be a teacher. And I know the hard work and sacrifice that the thousands of teachers across the country put in every single day.

    “So, on behalf of the Government of Canada – thank you. For the late nights marking papers. For the weekends spent creating course materials so your students are engaged. For the moments where you feel like a parent, guardian, mentor, guide, and coach – all at once. For the often-unsung contributions you make to help others succeed.

    “Today, on World Teachers’ Day, and every day, let’s show our gratitude and give thanks to our teachers and educators. They make the world better and more prosperous.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: QUICK-SHIP BONUS! | U.S. Army

    Source: US Army (video statements)

    : AEMO

    About the U.S. Army:

    The Army Mission – our purpose – remains constant: To deploy, fight and win our nation’s wars by providing ready, prompt & sustained land dominance by Army forces across the full spectrum of conflict as part of the joint force.

    Interested in joining the U.S. Army?
    Visit: spr.ly/6001igl5L

    Connect with the U.S. Army online:
    Web: https://www.army.mil
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USarmy/
    X: https://www.twitter.com/USArmy
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usarmy/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/us-army
    #USArmy #Soldiers #Military #15K #QuickShip

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uhAZ79Dujwg

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: What’s Next for Climate Action & Chief Economists’ Outlook | WEF | Top Stories of the Week

    Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)

    This week’s top stories of the week include:

    0:15 What’s next for urgent climate action? – At the Sustainable Development Impact Meetings in New York, leaders discussed how to curb carbon emissions while building an inclusive economy. Regulations can be a lever for systemic change but local innovation is crucial, too.

    3:09 Solar stoves reduce air pollution deaths – It cooks food while emitting hardly any smoke. It uses a hybrid system, powered by energy from solar panels and from fuel such as small sticks or crop waste. The ACE One was created by African Clean Energy which is a part of the World Economic Forum’s Equitable Transition Initiative.

    5:08 Chief economists’ outlook for the rest of 2024 – Many chief economists polled by the World Economic Forum are optimistic about 2025. In the United States, nearly nine in ten chief economists anticipate moderate or strong growth in the coming year. Similarly, in South Asia, 71% predict strong or very strong growth.

    9:33 Earth exceeds 6 of 9 planetary boundaries – In 2009, a team of scientists identified the 9 natural processes that regulate Earth’s biosphere and keep it stable. These include climate change, biodiversity, ocean acidification and freshwater. The team also defined the safe planetary boundary for each process. A safe and sustainable future for humanity lies within these boundaries.

    _____________________________________________

    The World Economic Forum is the International Organization for Public-Private Cooperation. The Forum engages the foremost political, business, cultural and other leaders of society to shape global, regional and industry agendas. We believe that progress happens by bringing together people from all walks of life who have the drive and the influence to make positive change.

    World Economic Forum Website ► http://www.weforum.org/
    Facebook ► https://www.facebook.com/worldeconomicforum/
    YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/wef
    Instagram ► https://www.instagram.com/worldeconomicforum/ 
    Twitter ► https://twitter.com/wef
    LinkedIn ► https://www.linkedin.com/company/world-economic-forum
    TikTok ► https://www.tiktok.com/@worldeconomicforum
    Flipboard ► https://flipboard.com/@WEF

    #WorldEconomicForum

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tU2-Ikmijoc

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: ASIA/THAILAND – Myanmar refugees fleeing war arrested or repatriated

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Italy –

    Source: The Holy See in Italian

    Bangkok (Agenzia Fides) – Those who, fleeing from Myanmar devastated by civil war, cross the border with Thailand in search of peace, with the desire to start a new life, are migrants, often illegal. The flow of migrants from former Burma to Thailand has been recorded for many years, since there was a dictatorial military regime in power in Yangon, before the democratic season that began in 2016. Now, after the new military coup of 2021 and, with the recent law of compulsory recruitment in the Burmese army, many young people have tried to leave the country, choosing to go to neighboring countries in Southeast Asia, especially Thailand (see Fides 7/6/2024). Some enroll in schools, universities and courses of study, asking for a student visa; for others the only way is to go underground, with the hope of finding work and regularizing their status. The Thai government has always tried to stem the phenomenon and implemented policies of rejection, creating detention camps for migrants or refugee camps guarded by the police, not allowing refugees to integrate into society. In the past four months, the policy of rejection has materialized with the arrest of almost 200,000 citizens of Myanmar. As reported by the Thai Ministry of Labor, the police authorities have inspected 18,000 workplaces and other locations to check the documents of 256,213 migrant workers. According to the department, among the workers arrested because they were considered “illegal migrants” there were over 193,000 citizens of Myanmar, 39,000 Cambodians, 15,000 Laotians, and over 7,000 of other nationalities. About 1,830 illegal migrant workers have been prosecuted, while others have been fined and taken to detention camps pending repatriation. The Burmese military junta announced that about 1,000 Burmese workers were repatriated from Thailand in August. According to the NGO “Myanmar Humanitarian Action Center” it is a roundup of unprecedented scale. The Thai government has said that the controls on illegal migrant workers are necessary “to protect job opportunities for Thai citizens”. Thai law already prohibits migrant workers of any nationality from working in 27 specific occupations reserved for Thai citizens (such as passenger transport, traditional Thai massage, hairdressing, interpretation and money transfer services). Thailand is home to about two million people from Myanmar who work in agriculture, hospitality, fishing, manufacturing and other sectors. Many live without documents after crossing the border as illegal immigrants, hoping to obtain a “Certificate of Identity,” issued by a Thai government office that allows them to remain in the country and work regularly. If they do not have that certificate, migrants are repatriated but, as soon as they return to Myanmar – reports “Myanmar Humanitarian Action Center” – they are imprisoned or enlisted in infantry divisions of the Burmese army and sent to the front lines. In a situation of civil conflict, repatriation represents a serious threat to their lives, the organization notes. Then there are the Burmese refugees (about 100,000) who live permanently in refugee camps set up by the Thai government along the border between Thailand and Myanmar and closed to the outside. According to data from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), since 2021 the number of these refugees has continued to grow, due to the civil conflict in Myanmar. It should be noted that Thailand has not acceded to the 1951 Refugee Convention and does not have a specific national legal framework for the protection of refugees and asylum seekers. Those Burmese refugees are, therefore, stuck in Thailand in a legal and social “limbo”, while the government does not issue them permission to move to third countries, where they would like to go. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 5/10/2024) Share:

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Statement by the Prime Minister on World Teachers’ Day

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Prime Minister of Canada – in French

    The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on World Teachers’ Day:

    “Teachers are the best. They help us learn and grow. They encourage curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. They pick us up when we fall. And they are our guides and advisors when we need extra encouragement to succeed.”

    “We all have a favorite teacher. The one who comforted us when we lacked self-confidence. The one who, despite the thousands of questions we asked, was happy to answer each one. The one who made learning fun.”

    “This year’s theme, ‘Elevating Teacher Voices: Toward a New Social Contract for Education,’ highlights the critical role educators play in advancing and shaping our future. Whether in the classroom or in after-school programs, as early childhood educators or counselors, or as coaches or mentors, teachers lay the foundation for each generation to reach their full potential.

    “By awarding thePrime Minister’s Awards for Teaching Excellence and Excellence in STEM Education and those for theexcellence in early childhood education, we thank exceptional educators across the country for their dedication to their students and communities. Today, I am pleased to launch the call for nominations for the 2025 awards. I invite Canadians to nominate an exceptional educator in their community who has made a real difference in their life or the life of one of their children.

    “The federal government is working to ensure that teachers and students have what they need to succeed. Through programs likeCanCode, we are providing professional development opportunities to 100,000 teachers. This will enable more than nine million students to acquire skills in areas such as coding and artificial intelligence over the next two years. In addition, through our newNational School Feeding Program, we will provide healthy meals to some 400,000 more children in schools, because teachers know that students learn better when their stomachs are full.

    “Beyond our borders, initiatives such as theGlobal Partnership for Educationand the Simameni Project(in English only) improve access to quality education, particularly in low-income and crisis-affected countries. In addition, as part of its work towards achieving the2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, Canada is playing its part in making learning more inclusive for young students, regardless of their background.

    “Some of my fondest memories are from my time as a teacher. I was proud of my job. And I know how hard the thousands of teachers across the country work and sacrifice every day.

    “So on behalf of the Government of Canada, I want to thank you. For the nights spent grading homework. For the weekends spent creating course materials that engage your students. For the times you feel like a parent, guardian, mentor, guide, and coach all rolled into one. For the contributions that often go unnoticed but help others succeed.

    “Today, on the occasion of theWorld Teachers’ Day, and every day, let us show our gratitude to our teachers and educators and thank them. They contribute to making the world a better and more prosperous place.”

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI USA: Resources for Repairing, Retrofitting and Rebuilding After Hurricane Francine

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Resources for Repairing, Retrofitting and Rebuilding After Hurricane Francine

    Resources for Repairing, Retrofitting and Rebuilding After Hurricane Francine

    BATON ROUGE, La. – Like all natural disasters, hurricanes can cause massive destruction to homes, property and infrastructure. Typically, hurricanes cause the greatest damage to structures of light construction, including some manufactured homes and other residential dwellings.

    Mitigation measures are available to improve personal safety and reduce or eliminate the risk of future damages to structures and personal property. FEMA building specialists can give you information on how to repair, retrofit, or rebuild your home to be safer and stronger before the next disaster.

    Mitigation Topics to Consider

    Roof Design

    Roof failures are a common cause of major damage to buildings and their contents from high winds. There are mitigation measures that can be taken to reduce potential roof damage.

    These mitigation measures include:

    • Designing Wind-Resistant Roofs
    • Reinforcing Gable Roof Ends
    • Securing Sheathing Properly
    • Installing Shingles Properly 

    flood mitigation

    • PREPARE OR UPDATE A LIST OF BELONGINGS – Documenting all of your belongings will help with the insurance claims process. Consider taking photos of high-value items or doing a video walkthrough of your home to document its contents. 
    • GET FLOOD INSURANCE – Most homeowners insurance policies don’t cover flood damage. Protect your investment by purchasing flood insurance for your home and contents, even if you do not live in a high-risk flood zone.
    • ELEVATE UTILITIES ABOVE BASE FLOOD ELEVATION (BFE) – Elevate or floodproof mechanical units, furnaces, water heaters, electrical systems, and other utilities on masonry, concrete, or pressure-treated lumber at least 12 inches above the BFE. 
    • REPLACE CARPETING WITH TILES – Tiles are more flood-resistant than carpet. Using tile or other flood-resistant materials in areas below the BFE can help reduce water damage.
    • INSTALL FLOOD VENTS – Install flood vents in foundation walls, garages, and other enclosed areas to allow water to flow through, drain out, and lower the risk of structural damage. 
    • USE FLOOD-RESISTANT INSULATION AND DRYWALL – Flood-resistant insulation and drywall will help minimize damage and can be easily cleaned and sanitized. 
    • PREVENT SEWAGE BACK-UP – In some areas, flooding can cause sewage to back up through drainpipes in your home. Consult with a plumber and, if applicable, invest in a sewer backflow valve to prevent this potential health hazard.
    1. Local Building Officials

    Always check with local building officials before beginning any repairs or rebuilding because:

    • Building codes, permits, inspection requirements, and zoning ordinances may be involved.
    • A floodplain ordinance will affect rebuilding when the structure has sustained substantial damage and is situated in a floodplain.

    Building officials will reinforce the point that only licensed professionals are qualified to perform structural repair or structural mitigation work.

    Email a Specialist

    If you are unable to call, email your questions, comments, or issues to FEMA-LAMit@fema.dhs.gov to receive a written response from a Specialist.

    Speak to a Specialist

    • Mitigation Helpline – Available Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. by calling 833-FEMA-4-US or 833-336-2487.
    • Not available when you call? Leave a message and a Specialist will return your call within 24 hours.

    Online Resources

    For the latest information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4817. Follow FEMA Region 6 social media at X.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/femaregion6.

    alexa.brown

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for the San Carlos Apache Tribe

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for the San Carlos Apache Tribe

    Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for the San Carlos Apache Tribe

    WASHINGTON — FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the San Carlos Apache Tribe to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the Watch Fire from July 10-17, 2024.

    The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in the San Carlos Apache Tribe. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster. 

    Federal funding is also available to the Tribal Nation and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the fire. 

    Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures.

    Benigno Bern Ruiz has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the Tribal Nation and warranted by the results of further assessments.

    mashana.davis

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/THAILAND – Arrest or repatriation: the fate of many Burmese fleeing war

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Bangkok (Agenzia Fides) – These are migrants, often illegal immigrants, who flee from Myanmar, devastated by civil war, across the border to Thailand in search of peace and to build a new life there. The flow of migrants from former Burma to Thailand has not stopped for many years, since a dictatorial military regime was in power in Yangon before the democratic phase began in 2016. After the new military coup in 2021 and with the recent law on forced recruitment, many young Burmese are trying to leave the country and opt for neighboring Southeast Asian countries, especially Thailand (see Fides, 7/6/2024). Some enroll in schools, universities and courses and apply for residency visas as students; for others, the only option is to go underground, hoping to find work and legalize their status sooner or later.The Thai government has always tried to curb the phenomenon and pursued a hostile policy by setting up migrant detention centers or controlled refugee camps that do not allow refugees to integrate into society. In the past four months, this policy has led to the arrest of nearly 200,000 Myanmar nationals. According to the Thai Ministry of Labor, police authorities inspected 18,000 workplaces and other locations to check the documents of 256,213 migrant workers. According to the ministry, the workers arrested as “illegal migrants” included over 193,000 Myanmar nationals, 39,000 Cambodians, 15,000 Laotians and over 7,000 other nationalities. Some 1,830 illegal migrant workers have been prosecuted, others have been fined, and still others have been sent to detention camps to be sent back to their countries of origin.The Burmese military junta confirmed that around 1,000 Burmese workers were repatriated from Thailand in August. According to the Myanmar Humanitarian Action Centre, a non-governmental organization, this was an unprecedented restrictive measure. The Thai government, meanwhile, has said that the controls on illegal migrant workers are necessary to protect employment opportunities for Thai citizens. Under Thai law, migrant workers of any nationality are already prohibited from working in 27 specific professions reserved for Thai citizens (such as passenger transport, traditional Thai massage, hairdressing, interpreting and money transfer services). Thailand is home to around two million Myanmar people employed in agriculture, hospitality, fishing, manufacturing and other sectors. Many of them live in the country without papers, having crossed the border as illegal immigrants in the hope of obtaining a “Certificate of Identity”, issued by a Thai government office that would allow them to stay and work in the country.”Refugees who do not have such a certificate and return to Myanmar are detained there or drafted into infantry divisions of the Burmese army and sent to the front,” reports the Myanmar Humanitarian Action Centre. Given the civil conflict, repatriation poses a serious threat to their lives, the human rights organization says.In addition, there are Burmese refugees (around 100,000) who live permanently in refugee camps set up by the Thai government along the Thailand-Myanmar border and closed to the outside world. According to the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR), the number of these refugees has continued to rise since 2021 due to the civil war in Myanmar. Thailand did not adhere to the 1951 Refugee Convention and does not have a specific national legal framework for the protection of refugees and asylum seekers. Burmese refugees are therefore in a legal and social “limbo” in Thailand, while the government does not grant them permission to travel to third countries where they would like to go. (PA) (Agenzia Fides, 5/10/2024)
    Share:

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: AFRICA/MADAGASCAR – School as a means of evangelization and a meeting place between religious confessions

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Italy –

    Source: The Holy See in Italian

    Saturday, October 5, 2024

    Beandrarezona (Agenzia Fides) – Contributing to the formation of young people by offering them quality education that gives them equal opportunities compared to other young people in the cities, this is the goal of the Consolata Missionaries’ school (IMC) recently opened in Beandrarezona. “School is a great tool for evangelization in many ways. Although many young people are not particularly interested in religion, through school they can discover the message of the Gospel and their families can also be reached” says Fr. Jean Tuluba, IMC, from the mission of Beandrarezona. “After contact with the local reality we noticed that in Beandrarezona, which is the center of the mission, and in the other villages, there are private and public schools: nursery, elementary and first cycle of middle school, but there were no schools for the second cycle of middle school and high school – he continues. Hence the need, after having spoken with local leaders and parents, to build a secondary school because the young people of Beandrarezona and other nearby villages are forced to leave their families after primary school to continue their studies in the city with a significant economic impact on families and consequently many young people drop out of school to go and work in the fields.” “Among the first 30 students, a good percentage come from other religious confessions. The school also becomes a way to dialogue with other religions through the education we give to their children, since from the beginning these other confessions have placed their trust in us by sending their children to study – the priest points out. In this way, the school is not only an education center, but also a meeting place between religious confessions. Furthermore, we have chosen to manage the school gradually, opening one class per year until the completion of the three-year cycle. This is because the level of education of the students is very low. Opening a class each year will help us to support the formation of students and also the ongoing formation of teachers.” The Consolata missionaries arrived in Madagascar on March 13, 2019 to work in the diocese of Ambanja, in the northwest of the Big Island. After a period of study of the Malagasy language, on October 20, 2019 they began their pastoral service in the new mission of Beandrarezona, created with the arrival of the first three missionaries, Fathers Jean Tuluba (DR Congo), Jared Makori (Kenya) and Kizito Mukalazi (Uganda). “Our mission is the latest parish created in the diocese of Ambanja, in the northwest of the Big Island and is located almost 1,000 kilometers from Antananarivo, the capital of the country,” explains Father Tuluba. “It extends over three rural municipalities and has more than 80 villages, of which only 12 have Christian communities. The villages are very far from each other and the only possible means of transport to visit them is by motorbike, but in most of them you can almost always get there only on foot. To reach some communities we have to walk up to 14 hours. It takes strength and determination to face the difficulties of the roads. Of the 2,587,014 inhabitants (2022 census) of the diocese, only 7% of the population is Catholic and in our mission Catholics are about 3% of the total of 21,170 inhabitants (2018 census). As you can see, it is truly a mission ad gentes that needs our presence and attention”, the missionary remarks. The main activities of the mission are visits to the communities, sacramental catechesis, the formation of catechists, missionary and vocational animation, the formation of young people and children. The majority of the population of the mission is made up of young people and children. In fact, it is estimated that 75% of Madagascar’s population is made up of young people and children. The school, whose construction began in 2021 after the Covid-19 epidemic, was officially inaugurated and opened on September 2, 2024 with the Eucharistic celebration presided over by the diocesan bishop of Ambanja, Francis Donatien Randriamalala, who blessed the building. Other priests, nuns, local administrative and political authorities, representatives of local religious confessions, Christians of the mission, friends and acquaintances participated in the celebration. The following day, lessons began immediately with 30 students. (AP) (Agenzia Fides 5/10/2024) Share:

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

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  • MIL-OSI Translation: ASIA/HOLY LAND – October 7, one year later. Patriarch Sabbah: there will be peace only if the Palestinian tragedy ends

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Italy –

    Source: The Holy See in Italian

    Jerusalem (Agenzia Fide) – The catastrophe that overwhelms the Holy Land and the entire Middle East “did not begin on 7 October 2023”. The cycles of violence that generated the tragic present also experienced in the land of Jesus «were infinite, starting in 1917, reaching their peak in 1948 and 1967, continuing from then until today». Now the angry retaliation of the Israeli military force “can destroy and bring death”, but “it cannot lead to the security that Israelis need”, because peace can return “only when the tragedy of the Palestinian people comes to an end”. These are words irrigated with lucid realism, pain and at the same time hope “against all hope” those collected in the document-appeal released by the Latin Patriarch Emeritus of Jerusalem Michel Sabbah and the members of the “Christian Reflection” group one year after the massacres carried out by Hamas against Israeli Jews on 7 October 2023, a massacre that has opened the new vortex of death and annihilation that sucks in entire populations and drags the entire world towards the abyss of global war. The “Christian Reflection” of Jerusalem is a group of Christians from the Holy Land – priests, religious and lay people – gathered around Patriarch Emeritus Sabbah to share reflections on the role of Christians in the face of conflict and in society. Precisely for brothers and sisters in faith in Christ, the document signed by Patriarch Emeritus Sabbah poses decisive questions: «As Christians» we read in the text, entitled “Keeping hope alive” «we are also faced with other dilemmas: this is a war in which we are merely passive spectators? Where do we stand in this conflict, too often presented as a struggle between Jews and Muslims, between Israel, on the one hand, and Hamas and Hezbollah supported by Iran, on the other? Is this a religious war? Should we hunker down in the precarious safety of our Christian communities, isolating ourselves from what is happening around us? Must we simply watch and pray on the sidelines, hoping that this war will eventually pass?”“We are staring into the darkness”After a year of incessant war, “as the cycle of death continues unabated,” Patriarch Sabbah and think tank members warn the urgency “” of seeking the hope that comes from our faith”, while they admit that they are “exhausted, paralyzed by pain and fear. We are staring into the darkness”, while “our beloved Holy Land and the entire region are reduced to ruin” and “every day we mourn the tens of thousands of men, women and children who have been killed or injured, especially in Gaza, but also in the West Bank, Israel, Lebanon and beyond, in Syria, Yemen, Iraq and Iran.” In Gaza – the tragic description of the facts continues – “houses, schools, hospitals, entire neighborhoods are now piles of rubble. Disease, hunger and desperation reign supreme.” In all of this – the authors of the document ask – “has the Zionist dream of a safe home for the Jews in a Jewish state called Israel brought security to the Jews?”. International inaction “Incredibly” note the Sabbah Patriarch and the members of Christian Reflection «the international community watches almost impassively. Calls for a ceasefire, ending the devastation, are repeated without any meaningful attempt to rein in those wreaking havoc. Weapons of mass destruction and means to commit crimes against humanity converge in the region”. If the international community is absent – the document continues – Christians, despite their defenselessness and small numbers, are called to be confident in the Resurrection of Christ also in the present tragic situation. The one underway – the document insists – «is not a war of religion. And we must actively take sides, on the side of justice and peace, freedom and equality. We must stand alongside all those, Muslims, Jews and Christians, who seek to put an end to death and destruction” Sabbah and his companions in the think tank turn to Christian leaders, “our bishops and our priests for words driving. We need our pastors to help us understand the strength we have when we are together. Alone, each of us is isolated and silenced.” Above all – they add – there is a need to ask for God’s help “so as not to despair, so as not to fall into the trap of hatred. Our faith in the Resurrection teaches us that all human beings are to be loved, equal, created in the image of God, children of God and brothers and sisters of one another.” For this reason “our schools, hospitals, social services are places where we take care of all those in need, without discrimination”. And faith in Christ “makes us spokespersons for a land without walls, without discrimination, spokespersons for a land of equality and freedom for all, for a future in which we can live together”.Putting an end to the Palestinian tragedyWith lucid realism, the authors of document-appeal recognize that peace will be possible “only when the tragedy of the Palestinian people comes to an end”. For this reason there is a need “for a definitive peace agreement between these two partners and not for temporary ceasefires or provisional solutions”. Israel’s massive military force “can destroy and bring death, it can wipe out political and military leaders and anyone who dares to stand up and oppose the occupation and discrimination. However, it cannot bring the security that Israelis need. The international community”, they add, “must help us by recognizing that the main cause of this war is the denial of the right of the Palestinian people to live in their land, free and equal”. “We are one people, Christians and Muslims. Together”, continues the document addressed to the Palestinians, “we must seek the way beyond the cycles of violence. Together with them, we must engage with those Israeli Jews who are also tired of the rhetoric, the lies, the ideologies of death and destruction.” (GV) (Agenzia Fides 5/10/2024)Share:

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Christina Bohannan and national Democrats caught red-handed

    Source: US National Republican Congressional Committee

    The following text contains opinion that is not, or not necessarily, that of MIL-OSI –

    October 5, 2024

    Christina Bohannan and national Democrats were caught LYING about Rep. Miller-Meeks’ record.

    In fact, they were proven wrong three separate times.

    WQAD:

    KCCI:

    KCRG:

    “It is worth noting Miller-Meeks was not in the legislature when that law was passed, so she never voted on it.”

    “Christina Bohannan and national Democrats were caught red-handed lying about Rep. Miller-Meeks because they have nothing else on which to run. Iowa voters see through Bohannan’s act — she’s nothing more than a radical leftist who supports defunding the police, bailing out criminals and abolishing prisons.” — NRCC Spokesman Mike Marinella

    MIL OSI USA News –