Source: China State Council Information Office 2
Chinese President Xi Jinping and other Party and state leaders attended a ceremony to present flower baskets to fallen heroes at Tian’anmen Square in central Beijing on Monday.
The event was held to mark Martyrs’ Day.
Follow China.org.cn on Twitter and Facebook to join the conversation.ChinaNews App Download
Source: Auckland Council
Aucklanders are encouraged to have their say on a new policy for development contributions. The consultation is open from Monday 30 September until Friday 15 November 2024.
Development contributions are fees the council charges developers to help fund the cost of growth in Tāmaki Makaurau.
The council uses this money to help pay for new assets that are needed to support the new households or business properties that have been, or will be, developed in Auckland. This includes roads and footpaths, parks; libraries and community facilities; and drainage and stormwater systems.
Andrew Duncan, Manager of Financial Policy at Auckland Council, notes providing the infrastructure to support expected growth is a key council function.
“Infrastructure allows new developments to be built and ensures Aucklanders have access to the activities and services they expect.
“Tāmaki Makaurau is growing at a rapid rate – Auckland’s population is expected to grow by approximately 600,000 people over the next 30 years.
“Development contributions are a way of ensuring that growth pays for growth and the costs of infrastructure are fairly shared between developers, ratepayers, and funding from the government.”
Sharing the cost of growth
Over the 10-year period from 2024 to 2034 the council will be investing around $39.3 billion in its capital investment programme, which includes $10.3 billion of projects with a growth component. It’s also planning to invest $10.9 billion from 2034 to 2054 in the Investment Priority Areas at Drury, the Inner Northwest and the Auckland Housing Programme areas at Tāmaki, Mt Roskill, and Māngere. These areas are joint priority areas with the government and are key locations where the council can focus its limited resources. The development contributions policy makes sure the cost of new infrastructure is fairly shared between developers and ratepayers based on who causes the need for the infrastructure and who benefits from it.
Without this policy, ratepayers would be covering the share of the cost of providing growth-related infrastructure that would otherwise fall to developers.
What will the policy cover?
The proposed policy will reflect:
It also proposes to plan for long-term investment in Investment Priority Areas (IPAs) over the next 30 years in a similar way to what the council is already doing for Drury. These are key locations where the council can focus its limited resources. They are all joint priority areas with government, and the additional areas are:
Updated investments planned to 2034 and changes to Drury
These policy changes will increase the average price of contributions from $21,000 to $30,000 per household unit equivalent (HUE), which is the requirement for a typical residential home. This figure includes the capital spend reflected in all 10 years of the long-term plan.
The council has reviewed the need for stormwater infrastructure in Drury, as well as the level of investment needed here over the next 30 years. As a result, the average price for development contributions in Drury will rise from $70,000 to $83,000.
Investment in the additional priority areas
The council has assessed the long-term investment requirements for the inner northwest and Tāmaki, Māngere and Mt Roskill using the best information currently available. The addition of $8.9 billion of investment over 30 years in these areas will raise the average price for development contributions in:
The proposed higher development contributions reflect the value of the infrastructure that will be required to support development and will ensure that developers pay a fair share of these costs.
The council’s economic analysis shows that higher development contributions do not generally lead to higher house prices. The price of housing is determined by supply and demand for houses rather than the cost of land and building. National and international evidence shows that rather than impacting housing prices, an increase in development contributions could lead to a reduction in the price of undeveloped land over time.
Have your say
You can tell us what you think of the policy on the council’s Have Your Say webpage. You can also join one of our events.
Join our webinars on:
Come see us in-person at the Ellen Melville Centre at 2 Freyberg Place, Central Auckland 1010 in:
We want to hear your views. Have your say on the proposed development contributions policy from Monday 30 September until Friday 15 November 2024.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
LCSD to hold “Jazz Music Appreciation for Beginners” Lecture Demonstration Series (with photo)
LCSD to hold “Jazz Music Appreciation for Beginners” Lecture Demonstration Series (with photo)
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The Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) will present the “Jazz Music Appreciation for Beginners” Lecture Demonstration Series on five consecutive Wednesdays starting from October 30, featuring members of the local emerging jazz music group “Fountain de Chopin” as the speakers and demonstrators to cover the fundamentals, origins, evolution and distinctive characteristics of jazz music in an easy-to-understand manner. With live demonstrations woven throughout the lectures, audiences can not only have a better understanding of this globally cherished music genre but also learn to appreciate the fascinating charisma that jazz music embodies. Details of each lecture are as follows:Lecture 1: Exploring Jazz – Structure and Instrument Analysis—————————————————————————Date: October 30 (Wednesday) Complemented by live demonstrations, the speakers will introduce audiences to the basics as well as the more advanced structures and nuances of jazz music, including the communication between musicians and the methods and terminology of improvisation, so that they can understand the key points and details to focus on when listening to jazz.Lecture 2: The Origins of Jazz Music (1910 to 1940)—————————————————————Date: November 6 (Wednesday) The speakers will introduce the origins of jazz music and popular trends from the early 20th century such as “Big Band” and “Swing”, with highlights on several iconic jazz musicians, including Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington. With live performances, audiences can be immersed in the audible history of jazz. Lecture 3: The Evolution of Jazz Music (1940 to 1970)——————————————————————-Date: November 13 (Wednesday) The speakers will introduce and showcase performances of various jazz music genres, such as “Bebop”, “Cool Jazz”, “Hard Bop”, “Free Jazz”, “Latin Jazz” and “Fusion Jazz”. They will also elaborate on how jazz has evolved to place greater emphasis on breaking rules, thereby allowing musicians more freedom in improvisation. Several influential musicians in the jazz scene, including Chet Baker, John Coltrane and Herbie Hancock, will also be highlighted. Lecture 4: Modern Jazz Music (1970 to present)———————————————————-Date: November 20 (Wednesday) Through demonstration performances, the speakers will give an overview of the development of jazz music from the mid-20th century to the present, including “Fusion Jazz” and later “Modern Jazz”, and will introduce some icons of “Jazz-Rock Fusion” such as Miles Davis and Chick Corea.Lecture 5: Embark on a Journey from the Ears to Discover Your Own Jazz Music————————————————————————————————–Date: November 27 (Wednesday) In the final lecture, through improvisational performances, the speakers will explain different types of jazz music and their features, progressing from basic to advanced levels. By learning about masterpieces of jazz and the distinctive styles of musicians, audience members will know how to appreciate and distinguish between different jazz genres. “Fountain de Chopin” was established in 2021 by local jazz musicians. Its core members include Bowen Li (pianist), Michael Chan (guitarist), Nelson Fung (bassist), Dean Li (drummer), Timothy Wan and Brian Cheung (saxophonists). Dedicated to promoting local jazz music, the group focuses on organising small-scale performances, listening sessions, and improvisational concerts. The group has also been invited to participate in various local music events, and has actively engaged in interdisciplinary collaborations with musicians. All lectures will be conducted in Cantonese and will start at 7.30pm in the Lecture Hall of the Hong Kong Space Museum. Each lecture will run for about one hour and 30 minutes. Tickets priced at $100 (for each lecture, with free seating) are now available at URBTIX (www.urbtix.hk). For telephone bookings, please call 3166 1288. For programme enquiries, please call 2268 7321 or visitwww.lcsd.gov.hk/CE/CulturalService/Programme/en/music/programs_1792.html.
Ends/Monday, September 30, 2024Issued at HKT 11:00
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Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Authorised mobile network operators can install mobile communications facilities in specified buildings for free from April 1, 2025
Authorised mobile network operators can install mobile communications facilities in specified buildings for free from April 1, 2025
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The amended section 14 of the Telecommunications Ordinance (Cap. 106) (TO) will come into operation tomorrow (October 1). Mobile network operators authorised by the Communications Authority (CA) can access the reserved space in specified buildings with building plans approved on or after April 1, 2025, to install and maintain mobile communications facilities (MCFs) without the payment of a fee to the land owners concerned. The TO stipulates that specified buildings cover newly built and rebuilt commercial, industrial, residential and hotel buildings. New government buildings and public housing developments will also follow the relevant arrangements to reserve space for mobile network operators to install MCFs. To implement the new measure, the CA, after considering the views from the telecommunications industry, building developers, construction professional bodies and the property management industry, has promulgated the Code of Practice for the Provision of Mobile Access Facilities in Specified Buildings for the Provision of Public Mobile Radiocommunications Services (Mobile CoP), which stipulates the minimum standards and requirements of the infrastructure facilities for the installation of MCFs in specified buildings. The Building Authority has also updated the Practice Note for Authorized Persons, Registered Structural Engineers and Registered Geotechnical Engineers on Access Facilities for Telecommunications and Broadcasting Services (Practice Note (APP-84)) issued in accordance with section 28A of the Building (Planning) Regulations (Cap. 123F), which promulgates the requirements on floor space and ancillary facilities for the installation of MCFs in specified buildings. The Mobile CoP and the Practice Note (APP-84) will come into effect tomorrow. Details have been uploaded to the websites of the CA and the Buildings Department. The relevant amendments to the TO will help institutionalise the arrangements for installing MCFs in specified buildings and streamline the approval process, with a view to further expanding the network coverage of Hong Kong’s fifth generation (5G) mobile services and facilitating Hong Kong’s development into a smart city.
Ends/Monday, September 30, 2024Issued at HKT 11:00
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Source: Allens Insights
Allens has advised Northern Minerals on a capital raising to progress its Browns Range heavy rare earth element (HREE) Project, including a $43 million two-tranche private placement and $5 million share purchase plan.
The private placement, offered to existing and new institutional and sophisticated investors, attracted a significant level of demand.
Located in Western Australia’s East Kimberley region, the Browns Range Project is one of the most high grade and advanced HREE projects outside China. The dysprosium and terbium resources it expects to supply are essential for high-performance permanent magnets used in electric vehicles and wind turbines.
Allens advised on all elements of the capital raising from concept to execution, including capital raising structures, execution of the equity raising and regulatory considerations.
‘Strong demand continues among investors for rare earths exposure, as evidenced by the response to Northern Minerals’ private placement as well as sizeable raisings conducted by other developing players in the space throughout this year,’ said lead Partner Bryn Hardcastle.
‘We congratulate Northern Minerals on its successful capital raising and look forward to seeing what’s ahead for the Browns Range Project.’
Bryn Hardcastle (Partner), Andrew Wong (Mergers and Acquisitions Counsel), Chris Bailey (Senior Associate), Alex Forster (Associate), Christopher Shields (Lawyer)
Source: Australian Ministers for Infrastructure and Transport
Work has started on dredging at Lumsden Point in the Port of Port Hedland, with approximately one million cubic metres of material to be removed over the next eight weeks.
The dredging will create a deeper access channel, swing basin and berth pockets to ensure the safe and efficient berthing of vessels at the new Lumsden Point facility.
Earlier this year, Jan De Nul (Australia) Pty Ltd was awarded the contract for these vital dredging and land reclamation activities.
Extensive preparatory works have already been completed, culminating in the arrival of the JFJ De Nul cutter suction dredge in Port Hedland earlier this week.
Environmental monitoring is being carried out as part of the dredging program to minimise the risk of impact to surrounding habitats.
Dredged material will be disposed of at a designated reclamation area within Lumsden in accordance with an approved Environmental Management Plan.
Lumsden Point will facilitate the export of battery metals such as lithium and copper concentrates, the import of renewable energy infrastructure including wind turbines and blades, as well as support the growth of direct shipping services to the Pilbara.
The Australian Government is investing $565 million in common user port upgrades in the Pilbara, $450 million of which will enable the development of new multi-user facilities and berths at Lumsden Point.
This is in partnership with the Western Australian Government, which is contributing $96.6 million to the project.
BHP, Fortescue, Roy Hill and the Hancock Prospecting Pty Ltd/Mineral Resources Ltd Joint Venture have committed a total of $65 million towards dredging costs.
Further information about the Lumsden Point project is available at http://www.pilbaraports.com.au(link is external)
Quotes attributable to Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:
“The Australian Government is delivering $565 million in common user port upgrades in the Pilbara to help unlock trade and investment opportunities and support a future made in Australia.
“This project is all about investment in quality infrastructure which encourages and supports opportunities for local businesses and communities.
“We will continue to partner with the Western Australian Government to ensure that this vital infrastructure progresses .”
Quotes attributable to Western Australian Minister for Ports David Michael:
“It’s fantastic to see the progress being made at Lumsden Point.
“The commencement of the dredging and reclamation works represents a significant milestone in the project’s advancement which will help diversify trade in the Pilbara.
“Upon completion, Lumsden Point is expected to boost Australia’s gross domestic product by $2.1 billion per annum.
“It is expected to save 3.6 million tonnes of emissions by 2055 by supporting direct shipping to the Pilbara and providing a pathway for renewable energy infrastructure.”
Quotes attributable to Senator for Western Australia Glenn Sterle:
“The Australian Government’s investment in the Lumsden Point expansion helps position Northern Australia to take advantage of the economic opportunities this project will provide as demand grows locally and overseas for clean energy sources.
“This project, which I’m pleased to see is underway, will drive both employment and economic growth while delivering lasting infrastructure that will continue to benefit the region well into the future.”
Quotes attributable to State Member for Pilbara Kevin Michel:
“Lumsden Point is a key investment in the Pilbara’s future, enhancing our ability to support economic growth and strengthen the region’s global significance.
“The port expansion will solidify the Pilbara’s role as a driving force in the green energy transition, unlocking new trade pathways and creating hundreds of local jobs that will directly benefit our communities.”
Source: Republic Of China Taiwan 2
Taiwan Tourism Administration held a tourism promotion event in Sydney at Four Seasons Hotel on Sep 23 2024. It was a great turnout with nearly 70 Australian travel agencies joining to explore the great business opportunities.
Director General David Cheng-Wei Wu spoke about Taiwan’s beauty in different ways. Taiwan and Australia are not only geographically close, but also sharing same core values, which makes Taiwan one of the safest and best places to Australian travelers. New initiative, Taiwan-Waves of wonder, allows you to experience its charms all year-around. Even Hollywood action movie “Weekend in Taipei” was 100% shot in Taiwan, which shows the city’s landscapes and diversities are also recognized by entertainment industry. The huge potential for the travel market is undeniable.
The event was followed by PR representative’s briefing about Taiwan’s attractions, introduction of Meet Taiwan by Taiwan Trade Center and travel agents from Taiwan shared their ideas and packages. Then a few rounds of the match-making meetings were very successful.
Source: New Zealand Police (District News)
Police were called this afternoon after a person was located deceased in the water near Raglan.
A member of the public called Police at 2.25pm, after observing the person in the water from a nearby footbridge.
While formal identification is yet to take place, Police believe the deceased is a 31-year-old Hamilton man reported missing last week.
Police would like to extend our condolences to the man’s whānau and loved ones.
Police will continue to make enquiries into the circumstances of the death on behalf of the Coroner.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre.
Source: NASA
2 min read
Earth planning date: Friday, Sept. 27, 2024
We’re wrapping up our time in the channel with the highly anticipated examination of the “Sheep Creek” white stones. Last plan’s reposition was a success, so we are able to go ahead with contact science on them this weekend. MAHLI and APXS picked three targets to investigate: “Cloud Canyon,” “Moonlight Lake,” and “Angora Mountain,” all of which sound so lovely and soft, and are quite evocative of these pale stones, which stand out so much against the background. ChemCam is also examining another of the white stones, “Pee Wee Lake.”
Since this is looking like it will be our last weekend in the channel, we’re packing the plan with all the other last-chance targets before we leave them behind. Mastcam is making a large survey of some other light-toned rocks in the middle distance dubbed “Orchid Lake,” as well as getting a bit more context for an old target, “Marble Falls,” which we first imaged almost two weeks ago. A bit closer to the rover, it will examine a target we’re calling “Brown Bear Pass,” to study the surface properties of the soil. Mastcam will also be looking backwards at our tracks to see if we turned up anything interesting in our travels. And ChemCam has a couple of long-distance observations of another familiar target, “Buckeye Ridge.”
After all that, it’s time for us to turn back around and head toward the edge of the channel with a drive of 55 meters (about 180 feet) back to our exit point. Even then, our weekend still isn’t over. We have a ChemCam-filled third sol, using AEGIS to autonomously select a target, and then getting a passive sky observation to keep an eye on the amount of different gases like oxygen and water vapor in the atmosphere. Speaking of the atmosphere, here on the environmental side we’re kept busy this weekend looking for dust devils and clouds, and keeping an eye on the amount of dust in the air around us. We’ll wrap up the weekend as we often do — with an early morning dedicated environmental science block.
Written by Alex Innanen, Atmospheric Scientist at York University
Source: Reserve Bank of India
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US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama)
BIRMINGHAM – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) spoke to the Alabama Bankers Association in Birmingham. His remarks focused on the importance of supporting community banks, providing capital to small businesses and family farms, and creating jobs in Alabama.
Sen. Tuberville also introduced Federal Reserve Governor Miki Bowman who has been an outspoken warrior for common-sense regulatory policy during her five years on the Federal Reserve board. Governor Bowman participated in a fireside chat with Alabama Bankers Association President and CEO Scott Latham about ways to support community banks.
Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, and HELP Committees.
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Breanna Lepre, Lecturer in Nutrition and Dietetics, The University of Queensland
More than 1.1 million Australians are estimated to be living with an eating disorder. Around one-third of these people are neurodivergent.
So why are neurodivergent people, such as autistic people and those with ADHD, more likely to experience eating disorders than the broader population? And how does this impact their treatment?
Neurodivergence, or the state of being neurodivergent, is a term for people whose cognitive functioning differs from what society considers “typical”. Many conditions broadly fall under neurodivergence, including (but not limited to):
Our understanding of neurodivergence has come a long way. Neurodivergence used to be considered a linear “spectrum” ranging from less to more neurodivergent.
We now know every neurodivergent person will have a unique experience across a range of dimensions. This includes sensory processing, motor abilities and executive functioning (working memory, cognitive flexibility and inhibition).
Conceptualising these differences ends up looking more like a colour wheel.
Eating disorders are complex and potentially life-threatening mental health conditions. They cause persistent and significant disturbances in thoughts, feelings and behaviours related to body weight, food and/or eating.
Many factors are likely to contribute to the development of an eating disorder. But research shows neurodivergent people are disproportionately affected.
One review found around 22.9% of autistic people had an eating disorder, compared with 2% in the general population. In another review, people with ADHD were four times more likely to be diagnosed with an eating disorder than people without ADHD.
Science has not pinpointed an exact reason why eating disorders are more common among neurodivergent people. But here’s what we know so far.
Neurodivergent people are more likely to experience feeding difficulties, sensory sensitivities and disordered eating.
A United States study assessing the eating behaviour of neurodivergent children found around 70% of autistic children displayed “atypical” eating behaviours. This includes food selectivity and a hypersensitivity to food textures. It compares with 4.8% of neurotypical children.
Similarly, autistic children may choose or reject foods based on texture more than other children. They may prefer foods with a consistent texture, bland taste and neutral colour (for example, chicken nuggets, plain pasta and rice).
Selective eating (having limited accepted foods and food aversions) has been associated with avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID). This is an eating disorder characterised by avoidance and aversion to food and eating that is not related to body image. ARFID is commonly associated with autism, with one study estimating 21% of autistic people will experience it in their lifetime.
Other neurodivergent traits, such as perfectionism and a preference for routine, have been associated with disordered eating and eating disorders.
Research on adolescent girls found those with anorexia nervosa are more likely to exhibit neurodivergent (in this case, autistic) traits and behaviours. These include developing rules, resistance to change and a hyperfocus on body weight. These features are commonly seen in anorexia nervosa, an eating disorder characterised by restricted food intake, an intense fear of weight gain and body image disturbances.
Meanwhile, impulsivity symptoms in ADHD have been associated with binge eating disorder. This can involve recurrent episodes of eating large amounts of food in a short period of time. Impulsivity may also be linked to bulimia nervosa, characterised by compensatory behaviours to prevent weight gain after binge eating (such as exessive exercise).
Some studies indicate a link between ADHD, alexithymia (difficulty experiencing, identifying and expressing emotions) and overeating behaviours such as emotional eating.
Finally, neurodivergent people are more likely to identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community, experience trauma and also have a mental health condition. Each of these considerations increases the likelihood someone will experience an eating disorder.
Despite the overlap between eating disorders and neurodivergence, current treatment approaches don’t meet the diverse needs of those affected.
Eating disorder treatment often has moderate success at best. For neurodivergent people, the outcomes are worse than for their neurotypical counterparts.
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), a broad range of treatments based on the interaction between thoughts, feelings and behaviours, is less beneficial for neurodivergent people. Yet this is often part of treatment for eating disorders. Autistic women have suggested CBT is less accessible due to its blanket approach and the assumption they have the skills needed to benefit.
There have been calls from organisations such as the National Eating Disorders Collaboration and lived experience advocates to improve access to neurodiversity-affirming care models for neurodivergent people affected by eating disorders.
Such care recognised and safely accommodates the multiple ways neurodivergence is related to feeding and eating behaviour.
Research suggests eating disorder treatment can be successfully adapted for neurodivergent people based on the following principles:
1. equal partnership. Including neurodivergent people as equal partners in their care and as decision-makers, and elevating their own experiences
2. embracing and celebrating differences. Neurodivergent traits should not be considered a deficit, or something to be “treated” or “fixed”. Rather, neurodivergent traits should be celebrated to nourish a positive sense of identity
3. accommodations. Neurodivergent traits and preferences are respected and accommodated. As an example, this might include reducing sensory inputs (the smell, sounds and lights) in a dining area, or a meal plan that is predictable and considers a person’s sensory sensitivities.
Treatment for eating disorders should also be gender-affirming (interventions that support and affirm someone’s gender identity) and trauma-informed.
If this article has raised issues for you, free resources and support is available from the Butterfly National Helpline by calling 1800 ED HOPE (1800 33 4673), or by visiting Eating Disorders Neurodiversity Australia or Autism Connect.
Breanna Lepre works for The University of Queensland and is a member of Dietitians Australia. Breanna is neurodivergent and has lived experience of an eating disorder.
Lauren Ball works for The University of Queensland and receives funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council, Queensland Health and Mater Misericordia. She is a Director of Dietitians Australia, a Director of the Darling Downs and West Moreton Primary Health Network and an Associate Member of the Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences.
– ref. Autistic people and those with ADHD are more likely to have eating disorders. Here’s why – and how this affects their treatment – https://theconversation.com/autistic-people-and-those-with-adhd-are-more-likely-to-have-eating-disorders-heres-why-and-how-this-affects-their-treatment-238759
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama)
WASHINGTON – Today,U.S. Senators Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) and Katie Britt (R-AL) announced that Sumpter Smith Air National Guard Base is selected as a finalist to be the home of the KC-46A Tanker.
“Alabama continues to be a leader in cutting-edge military equipment and technology,” said Senator Tuberville. “Sumpter Smith, home of the 117th Air Refueling Wing, is dedicated to providing air refueling and airlift support across Alabama and our nation. I am proud that Alabama is such a pro-military state and hope to see Sumpter selected for this designation next year.”
“I am proud Birmingham’s Sumpter Smith Air National Guard Base has been selected as a finalist for this important basing decision. Alabama is the arsenal of the world, and because of that we have incredible communities, synergies, and personnel ready, willing, and able to support this potential investment by the Air Force,” said Senator Britt. “Sumpter Smith is already well-suited to handle the recapitalization of KC-46A due to existing infrastructure that will save the Air Force money and only require a nominal investment. The close proximity to Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport is also beneficial as the runway allows the 117th Air Refueling Wing to launch with full fuel capacity. This is critical given growing threats around the globe. I firmly believe Sumpter Smith is the best possible choice, and we will continue to encourage the Air Force to choose Alabama.”
Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, and HELP Committees.
Source: China State Council Information Office 3
Sales staff promote African products via livestreaming during the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
The third Global Digital Trade Expo (GDTE), concluding on Sunday, has been a vibrant platform for fostering global partnerships in digital commerce and thus sustainable growth.
Held in Hangzhou, a city known for blending ancient charm and modern innovation, the expo featured more than 1,500 enterprises, including over 300 international companies.
Attendees experienced cutting-edge innovations like AI-driven robots and hydrogen-powered drones and were presented with over 400 new products and technologies.
Valuable experience
Kazakh Minister of Digital Development, Innovation, and Aerospace Industry Zhaslan Madiyev highlighted China’s role as a global leader in e-commerce and digital technologies, noting that China is accelerating the digital transformation of markets worldwide.
In a written interview with Xinhua, Madiyev said China’s experience offers valuable insights for countries in the early stages of developing their digital markets, aiding global growth and helping reduce digital inequality. He cited Kazakhstan’s efforts to improve telecommunications and cybersecurity by learning from China.
In addition to cutting-edge technologies, China’s experience in e-commerce also set an example for countries seeking to capitalize on the rapid growth of digital trade.
Kilimall, an e-commerce platform founded by Chinese entrepreneurs in Africa in 2014, has become one of the most popular shopping websites among Africans. It has generated about 10,000 local jobs in logistics, courier services, customer support and regional sales.
The cooperation between China and Africa in digital economy “represents a new model of economic cooperation that creates tangible value for businesses and people on both sides” said Ugandan Ambassador to China Oliver Wonekha.
Digitalization is a technological leap and a key driver of future development for countries and businesses, said Jean Louis Robinson, ambassador of Madagascar to China. “We are eager to work closely with Chinese companies to learn from China’s advanced experience in digital economy and promote sustainable development in Madagascar,” he added.
Robots perform dance at a booth during the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
Vast opportunities
China’s advanced digital economy and vast market scale are creating immense opportunities for the world, said experts and attendees at the expo.
“For us, China is not just a sales market,” said Lyu Feng, division head of public relations at Yokogawa China, a Japanese electric firm. He highlighted China’s vast emerging industries, strong market demand, and numerous high-tech companies.
Lyu added that the company emphasizes collaborating with Chinese enterprises to explore new opportunities, particularly in digital transformation and carbon emissions management in the manufacturing sector.
Zhu Lili, vice president of AstraZeneca China, expressed that the pharmaceutical giant is “highly confident” in the Chinese market and its innovation ecosystem. She emphasized the company’s goal to partner with more local firms to explore the application of digital technologies in healthcare, driving sustainable and high-quality growth for both the healthcare industry and the broader economy.
In the first half of 2024, China’s cross-border e-commerce imports and exports reached 1.22 trillion yuan (about 170 billion U.S. dollars), an increase of 10.5 percent year over year, according to customs data.
Kazakhstan has opened national pavilions on Chinese e-commerce platforms like Alibaba and JD.com to promote products such as powdered milk, safflower oil, and honey, boosting bilateral e-commerce ties, Serik Korzhumbayev, editor-in-chief of Delovoy Kazakhstan, told Xinhua.
Yao Hongchun, vice president of the Thai Chinese New Generation Business Association, emphasized its potential for collaboration with China, mainly through advanced e-commerce technologies tailored to Thai consumers.
A foreign merchant consults about a small intelligent translation device at the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
Cooperation platform
“E-commerce can be successful and further developed in the long run if everyone can find their way in it, if it is based on close international cooperation, if it is diversified and if as many countries as possible are involved on both the manufacturer and the buyer side,” Hungarian National Assembly’s Deputy Speaker Lajos Olah said at the opening ceremony of the expo.
By July 2024, China has signed e-commerce cooperation memorandums of understanding with 33 countries spanning five continents.
Additionally, China has been involved in digital economy collaborations through multilateral frameworks like the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, BRICS, the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting, and the G20, according to an e-commerce development report released by China’s Ministry of Commerce during the expo.
Beyond exhibitions, this year’s GDTE also featured multiple forums, meetings, and seminars, providing officials and industry leaders with platforms to exchange views and discuss prospects for international collaboration.
Through participating in the expo, Thailand is ready to work with partners in trade, investment, research, and development to expand its digital products and services, aiming to integrate into key global supply chains, Thailand’s Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, Ekachat Seetavorarat told Xinhua on the sidelines of the expo.
Madiyev also highlighted the GDTE as a unique opportunity to exchange experiences with leading global players in the digital economy and expand economic ties with other countries, particularly China.
Source: New Zealand Labour Party
Time has run out for Nicola Willis who has failed to keep her promise to deliver a solution to replace the Interislander ferries by today.
“Nicola Willis promised New Zealanders she would have a plan by the end of the quarter. Instead as the deadline to her promise loomed – she admitted last week it’s likely to be much later,” Labour transport spokesperson Tangi Utikere said.
“The Government’s bungled ferry deal is a complete failure. The consequences of these decisions will mean Kiwis pay more, wait years longer for replacement boats and face increased freight costs.
“Nicola Willis botched this deal from the moment she was in the captain’s chair. It was just the beginning of the poor choices this Government is becoming famous for.
“If the replacement ferries are not rail-enabled, Nicola Willis, Paul Goldsmith and Simeon Brown will also go down in history as the Ministers who cut the main trunk line in two.
“Maybe this is the hold up? As it seems the chaotic Cabinet cannot agree on a pathway forward when it comes to the possibility of no rail capability across the Cook Strait.
“Cancelling the order for two rail-enabled Cook Strait ferries has already cost KiwiRail almost half a billion dollars. However, costs are estimated to keep rising as the price for exiting the contracts with South Korean shipbuilders Hyundai is still under negotiation.
“Nicola Willis should be on the phone pleading with the ship builders to reinstate the contract. As more and more time goes on, it’s clear the Government is struggling to find that ‘Toyota Corolla’ ferry it desperately wanted without paying Ferrari prices,” Tangi Utikere said.
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Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
VICTORIA, Seychelles, Sept. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget Wallet, a leading Web3 non-custodial wallet, has announced the launch of OmniConnect, a software development kit that enables developers to seamlessly connect Telegram Mini-Apps to multichain ecosystems across over 500 blockchains including mainnets like Solana, TON and all EVM-compatible chains. The integration allows Telegram Mini-Apps to utilize Bitget Wallet for signing and conducting transactions across multiple blockchain networks. The future plans of OmniConnect go beyond supporting Telegram Mini-Apps, aiming to expand to plugins, mobile apps, and web platforms, allowing seamless interactions across any blockchain.
This release signifies a major leap in the integration of Web3 ecosystems with Telegram, offering over a billion Telegram users and developers a simplified, efficient way to interact with multiple blockchains. By integrating with Bitget Wallet, Telegram transforms into a comprehensive gateway to Web3, facilitating a smoother transition from Web2. The Telegram Mini-Apps play a crucial role in onboarding new users to Web3, offering an accessible entry point for individuals who have not previously interacted with decentralized technologies. This aligns with Bitget Wallet’s vision to connect a billion users from social platforms to the entire Web3 world, forming a core part of the broader Bitget Onchain Layer strategy.
Alvin Kan, COO of Bitget Wallet, highlighted the importance of this development, stating, “Previously, Telegram Mini-Apps could only interact with the TON network, making it difficult to engage with other public chains. Bitget Wallet’s OmniConnect aims to bridge this gap, enabling seamless multi-chain interaction via Bitget Wallet. We’re excited for more developers and blockchain ecosystems to join us in building a more open and thriving Web3 environment on Telegram.” Additionally, Bitget Wallet is set to announce further initiatives aimed at empowering the broader Mini-App ecosystem and deepening integration with Telegram, which are expected to enhance the capabilities and reach of both platforms and benefit the wider builder community.
Bitget Wallet has already established deep integration within the Telegram and TON ecosystems, partnering with major projects like Tomarket, Catizen, and Yescoin. It was the first to extend MPC keyless wallet to the TON mainnet, developed trading bots for Telegram, and provided multi-chain trading, zero-gas fee experiences on TON DApps, and access to popular project airdrops. Through these efforts, Bitget Wallet has positioned itself as a crucial infrastructure in the Telegram ecosystem. In August 2024 alone, Bitget Wallet saw nearly 2 million downloads, making it the most downloaded wallet globally according to App Store and Google Play data.
With over 30 million global users, Bitget Wallet is committed to driving mass adoption of Web3 by simplifying access through its MPC keyless wallet, which enables secure logins using familiar methods like email, Apple ID, Google accounts, and Telegram. As an all-in-one platform wallet, Bitget Wallet continues expanding its features in directions like “Wallet+Trading,” allowing users to trade directly within their wallets, and “Wallet+Social,” which integrates social functionalities and connects with Telegram and multi-chain ecosystems. Alvin Kan added, “Our goal is to be the gateway for mass Web3 adoption, making it easy for even non-Web3 users to access DeFi, blockchain games, and the broader crypto ecosystem.”
Go to OmniConnect Dev Kit: https://web3.bitget.com/en/docs/dapp/telegram-webapps-wc.html
About Bitget Wallet
Bitget Wallet stands as one of the world’s leading non-custodial Web3 wallets and decentralized ecosystem platform. With the Bitget Onchain Layer, the wallet is well-poised to develop a burgeoning DeFi ecosystem through co-creation and strategic incubation. Aside from a powerful Swap function, Bitget Wallet also offers multi-chain asset management, smart money insights, a native Launchpad, Inscriptions Center, and an Earning Center. Supporting over 100 major blockchains, 250,000+ tokens, and a wide array of DApps, Bitget Wallet is your top wallet for asset discovery and Web3 exploration.
For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | Discord
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4de495e5-b690-43d6-9e5a-4c551ce65302
Source: Asia Development Bank
MANILA, PHILIPPINES (30 September 2024) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved $32.35 million of additional financing for a rural water supply and sanitation development program in northern Kyrgyz Republic that is already performing well.
The additional financing will empower the government to continue rolling out its water program under the Kyrgyz Republic’s National Development Strategy, 2018–2040—which aims to provide drinking water to 95% of the country’s settlements and extend centralized water supply to more than 2 million rural residents.
Using a results-based approach, the additional financing will help to scale up the successful intervention in centrally located Naryn Province—raising the initial target of 64,000 people reached to 100,000. The funding also enables an increase in the number of education and health facilities that have separate toilets for women and men from 21 to 37.
“When the project team visits the sites, we are met with overwhelming gratitude from the villagers,” said ADB Principal Urban Development Specialist Heeyoung Hong. “The elderly and children no longer have to trek miles and endure long waits for water, especially in the freezing cold of winter. The success of the ongoing program shows the profoundly positive impact that well-targeted development financing, perfectly aligned with the government’s program, can have on people.”
Climate change considerations are integrated throughout the program’s design and targets. This includes piloting household sanitation solutions that are resilient to climate change and disasters. The program will fund climate risk assessments of potential potable water sources and deploy campaigns to help raise awareness among local residents on the importance of saving water.
“While the Kyrgyz Republic has abundant water, it is not distributed evenly—especially to villages across Naryn province,” said ADB Director General for Central and West Asia Yevgeniy Zhukov. “With climate change accelerating the pace of glacial melt, the availability of water in the glacier-dependent province faces a serious threat. This additional support will help build infrastructure that can withstand the impacts of climate change—ensuring that the Kyrgyz people in these low-income and rural areas have access to safe and reliable water and sanitation services.”
The financing comprises a $27 million concessional loan and a $5.35 million grant from the Asian Development Fund, which provides grants to ADB’s poorest and most vulnerable developing member countries. The Government of the Kyrgyz Republic is also contributing another $6.45 million in this round of financing.
This year marks the 30th anniversary of the partnership between ADB and the Kyrgyz Republic—a cooperation spanning more than 217 projects and technical assistance in key economic sectors. Since the Kyrgyz Republic joined ADB in 1994, the bank has committed public sector loans, grants, and technical assistance totaling $2.6 billion to the country.
ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 69 members—49 from the region.
Source: Asia Development Bank
MANILA, PHILIPPINES (30 September 2024) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $30 million financing package to improve climate resilience, water resources management, and livelihoods of communities in Karnali and Sudurpashchim provinces in Nepal.
“Nepal is increasingly at risk from the devastating impacts of climate change, as extreme weather events become more frequent. The Karnali and Sudurpashchim provinces are assessed to be the most vulnerable regions to climate change, largely owing to the poor communities’ low coping capacity” said ADB Environment Specialist Sumit Pokhrel. “This project will help communities in the targeted project areas to be more climate-resilient, build their capacity to preserve and manage their natural resources, and expand nature-based livelihood opportunities that will boost the local economy.”
The package comprises a $10 million concessional loan and a $20 million grant from the Asian Development Fund, which provides grants to ADB’s poorest and most vulnerable developing member countries.
The Climate-Resilient Landscapes and Livelihoods Project will help communities in 24 municipalities prepare catchment management plans to ensure effective water resources management and water security. The project will support the construction of small-scale drinking water systems and gravity-fed irrigation facilities. It will introduce water and soil conservation measures to protect landscapes from adverse effects of climate change. This includes the construction of soil erosion, surface runoff control, and infiltration structures; slope and stream bank stabilization; and land cover improvements such as nurseries, restoration of barren lands, and agroforestry.
ADB will provide grants to support nature-based livelihood investments such as the cultivation of medicinal and aromatic plants, non-timber forestry products, and indigenous crops. This will improve income opportunities of farmers and small and medium-sized enterprises, including women entrepreneurs. The project will also promote ecotourism in the region to diversify local communities’ income sources.
The project will build the capacity of federal, provincial and local governments to effectively plan, manage, and monitor water infrastructure, watersheds, and livelihood projects. At the local level, the project will train and inform communities on land and water preservation and conservation, and on nature-based livelihood opportunities.
ADB will administer an additional $2 million grant financed by the Community Resilience Partnership Program Trust Fund (CRPPTF) under the Community Resilience Financing Partnership Facility, which is dedicated to financing women-led small and medium enterprises. An additional $1.25 million grant from ADB’s Technical Assistance Special Fund and $500,000 from the CRPPTF is allocated for capacity building towards livelihood enhancement, ecotourism promotion, geographical indication, and independent project monitoring.
ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 69 members—49 from the region.
Source: New Zealand Police (District News)
Motorists heading over the Remutaka Hill are advised that a bus has broken-down in the westbound lane, just west of the summit.
Police were notified about 4:20pm.
There are no injuries but traffic is building up on both sides.
Motorists are asked to expect delays and delay their travel if possible.
ENDS
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Appointments to Endangered Species Advisory Committee
Appointments to Endangered Species Advisory Committee
*****************************************************
The Government today (September 30) announced the appointments to the Endangered Species Advisory Committee (ESAC) for the period from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2026. The ESAC was established in accordance with the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586) to advise the Director of Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation on the administration of the Ordinance. The following members will serve in the new term:Professor Wong Kam-bo (Chairman)Mr Chan Chun-pangMs Angela Chan Nga-chi Dr Tommy Hui Tin-yanMs Rose Ko Lai-fong Ms Elaine Shiu Yin-ningDr Simon Sin Yung-wa Ms Cammy So On-manMr Stanley Wong Cho-hangMs Josephine Wong Lai-meiMr Yang JianhuanMr Henry Yau Yik-chungMs Fanny Yeung Shuk-fun Director of Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation with Deputy Director of Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation as alternate memberCommissioner of Customs and Excise with Assistant Commissioner of Customs and Excise (Boundary and Ports) as alternate memberPrincipal Assistant Secretary for Environment and Ecology (Nature Conservation) with Assistant Secretary for Environment and Ecology (Nature Conservation) 2 as alternate MemberAssistant Director of Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation (Conservation) The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department expresses its gratitude for the service and valuable contributions of the outgoing members Ms Chiang Mei-ling, Dr David Lau Tai-wai, Dr Michelle Law Man-suet, Dr Xoni Ma Kwan-ki, Dr Sung Yik-hei, and Mr Matthew Wong Yin-shun.
Ends/Monday, September 30, 2024Issued at HKT 12:00
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Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
MIAMI, Sept. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —
09-30-2024 Distributions
Ex & Record Date 10/1/2024. Payable on 10/3/2024.
As of 08/31/2024 The 30-Day SEC Yield** for QQQY is 3.80%, JEPY is 3.91%, IWMY is 3.81%, SPYT is 0.51%, USOY is 4.30%, and QQQT is -0.13%
New Income Strategy: Weekly Distributions
We’re excited to announce that QQQY, WDTE (formerly JEPY), and IWMY now target weekly distributions. The first weekly declaration for these funds will occur on 10/9/2024. The full distribution schedule can be found on each fund page of the http://www.defianceetfs.com website.
The performance data quoted above represents past performance. Past performance does not guarantee future results. The investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when sold or redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost and current performance may be lower or higher than the performance quoted above. Performance current to the most recent month-end can be obtained by calling 833.333.9383.
QQQY Inception Date: 9/13/2023. Click here for QQQY Standardized Performance. WDTE Inception Date: 9/18/2023. Click here for WDTE Standardized Performance. IWMY Inception Date: 10/30/2023. Click here for IWMY Standardized Performance. SPYT Inception Date: 03/07/2024. Click here for SPYT Standardized Performance. USOY Inception Date: 05/09/2024. Click here for USOY Standardized Performance. QQQT Inception Date: 06/20/2024. Click here for QQQT Standardized Performance.
Distributions from the ETFs include the following estimated return of capital per the 9/5/2024 19-a1 Notice: Defiance Nasdaq 100 Enhanced Options & 0DTE Income ETF, ticker QQQY 59.83%; Defiance S&P 500 Enhanced Options & 0DTE Income ETF, ticker WDTE 48.27%; Defiance R2000 Enhanced Options & 0DTE Income ETF, ticker IWMY 77.80%; Defiance S&P 500 Income Target ETF, ticker SPYT 87.66%; Defiance Oil Enhanced Options Income ETF, ticker USOY 91.06%; Defiance Nasdaq 100 Income Target ETF, ticker QQQT 100.00%
Defiance Shifts to Weekly Distributions and Name Changes for the 0DTE Income ETF Suite, effective Sept 26th, 2024. Also effective Sept 26th is JEPY ticker change to WDTE. Read more here.
The Gross Expense Ratio for QQQT is 1.05%, QQQY, WDTE, IWMY, and USOY is 0.99%, and SPYT is 0.94%.
Click here for the QQQY Prospectus.
Click here for the WDTE Prospectus.
Click here for the IWMY Prospectus.
Click here for the SPYT Prospectus.
Click here for the USOY Prospectus.
Click here for the QQQT Prospectus.
* The Distribution Rate is the estimated payout an investor would receive if the most recently declared distribution, which includes option income, remained the same going forward. The Distribution Rate is calculated by multiplying an ETF’s Distribution per Share by twelve (12), and dividing the resulting amount by the ETF’s most recent NAV. The Distribution Rate represents a single distribution from the ETF and does not represent its total return. Distributions are not guaranteed.
** The Distribution Rate and 30-Day SEC Yield is not indicative of future distributions, if any, on the ETFs. In particular, future distributions on any ETF may differ significantly from its Distribution Rate or 30-Day SEC Yield. You are not guaranteed a distribution under the ETFs. Distributions for the ETFs (if any) are variable and may vary significantly from month to month and may be zero. Accordingly, the Distribution Rate and 30-Day SEC Yield will change over time, and such change may be significant. The distribution may include a combination of ordinary dividends, capital gain, and return of investor capital, which may decrease a fund’s NAV and trading price over time. As a result, an investor may suffer significant losses to their investment. These distribution rates caused by unusually favorable market conditions may not be sustainable. Such conditions may not continue to exist and there should be no expectation that this performance may be repeated in the future. Additional fund risks can be found below.
Investors should consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. For a prospectus or summary prospectus with this and other information about the Fund, please call 833.333.9383. Read the prospectus or summary prospectus carefully before investing.
IMPORTANT RISK INFORMATION
Investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible. As an ETF, the funds may trade at a premium or discount to NAV. Shares of any ETF are bought and sold at market price (not NAV) and are not individually redeemed from the Fund. Brokerage commissions will reduce returns.
QQQY and QQQT Index Overview: The Nasdaq 100 Index is a benchmark index that includes 100 of the largest non-financial companies listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market, based on market capitalization. This makes it a large-cap index, meaning its constituents have a high market value, often in the billions of dollars. The Index includes companies from various industries but is heavily weighted towards the technology sector. This reflects the Nasdaq’s historic strength as a listing venue for tech companies. Other sectors represented include consumer discretionary, health care, communication services, and industrials, among others.
WDTE & SPYT Index Overview: The S&P 500 Index is a widely recognized benchmark index that tracks the performance of 500 of the largest U.S.-based companies listed on the New York Stock Exchange or Nasdaq. These companies represent approximately 80% of the total U.S. equities market by capitalization, making it a large-cap index.
IWMY Index Overview: The Russell 2000 Index is a widely recognized benchmark index that tracks the performance of approximately 2000 small-cap companies in the United States. These are the smallest companies listed in the Russell 3000 Index, representing about 10% of that index’s total market capitalization.
QQQY Indirect Investment Risk. The Index is not affiliated with the Trust, the Fund, the Adviser, the Sub-Adviser, or their respective affiliates and is not involved with this offering in any way. Investors in the Fund will not have the right to receive dividends or other distributions or any other rights with respect to the companies that comprise the Index but will be subject to declines in the performance of the Index. The Nasdaq 100 Index is a benchmark index that includes 100 of the largest non-financial companies listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market, based on market capitalization. This makes it a large-cap index, meaning its constituents have a high market value, often in the billions of dollars.
WDTE Indirect Investment Risk. The Index is not affiliated with the Trust, the Fund, the Adviser, the Sub-Adviser, or their respective affiliates and is not involved with this offering in any way. Investors in the Fund will not have the right to receive dividends or other distributions or any other rights with respect to the companies that comprise the Index but will be subject to declines in the performance of the Index.
IWMY Indirect Investment Risk: The Index is not affiliated with the Trust, the Fund, the Adviser, the Sub-Adviser, or their respective affiliates and is not involved with this offering in any way. Investors in the Fund will not have the right to receive dividends or other distributions or any other rights with respect to the companies that comprise the Index but will be subject to declines in the performance of the Index.
An Investment in the Fund is not an investment in the Index, nor is the Fund an investment in a traditional passively managed index fund.
Index Trading Risk. The trading price of the Index may be highly volatile and could continue to be subject to wide fluctuations in response to various factors. The stock market in general has experienced extreme price and volume fluctuations that have often been unrelated or disproportionate to the operating performance of companies.
S&P 500 Index Risks: The Index, which includes a broad swath of large U.S. companies, is primarily exposed to overall economic and market conditions. Recession, inflation, and changes in interest rates can significantly impact the index’s performance. Furthermore, despite its diverse representation, a downturn in a major sector such as technology or financials could notably affect the index. Geopolitical risks and unexpected global events, like pandemics, can introduce volatility and uncertainty.
The Nasdaq 100 Index Risks: The Index’s major risks stem from its high concentration in the technology sector and significant exposure to high-growth, high valuation companies. A downturn in the tech industry, whether from regulatory changes, shifts in technology, or competitive pressures, can greatly impact the index. It’s also vulnerable to geopolitical risks due to many constituent companies having substantial international operations. Since many of these tech companies often trade at high valuations, a shift in investor sentiment could lead to significant price declines.
The Russell 2000 Index Risks: The Index, which includes a broad swath of large U.S. companies, is primarily exposed to overall economic and market conditions. Recession, inflation, and changes in interest rates can significantly impact the index’s performance. Furthermore, despite its diverse representation, a downturn in a major sector such as technology or financials could notably affect the index. Geopolitical risks and unexpected global events, like pandemics, can introduce volatility and uncertainty.
Derivatives Risk. Derivatives are financial instruments that derive value from the underlying reference asset or assets, such as stocks, bonds, or funds (including ETFs), interest rates or indexes. The Fund’s investments in derivatives may pose risks in addition to, and greater than, those associated with directly investing in securities or other ordinary investments, including risk related to the market, imperfect correlation with underlying investments, higher price volatility, lack of availability, counterparty risk, liquidity, valuation and legal restrictions.
Price Participation Risk. The Fund employs an investment strategy that includes the sale of in-the-money put option contracts, which limits the degree to which the Fund will participate in increases in value experienced by the Index over the Call Period (typically, one day, but may range up to one week). This means that if the Index experiences an increase in value above the strike price of the sold put options during a Call Period, the Fund will likely not experience that increase to the same extent and may significantly underperform the Index over the Call Period. Additionally, because the Fund is limited in the degree to which it will participate in increases in value experienced by the Index over each Call Period, but has full exposure to any decreases in value experienced by the Index over the Call Period, the NAV of the Fund may decrease over any given time period.
Distribution Risk. As part of the Fund’s investment objective, the Fund seeks to provide current monthly income. There is no assurance that the Fund will make a distribution in any given month. If the Fund does make distributions, the amounts of such distributions will likely vary greatly from one distribution to the next.
New Fund Risk. The Fund is a recently organized management investment company with no operating history. As a result, prospective investors do not have a track record or history on which to base their investment decisions.
High Portfolio Turnover Risk. The Fund may actively and frequently trade all or a significant portion of the Fund’s holdings. A high portfolio turnover rate increases transaction costs, which may increase the Fund’s expenses.
Liquidity Risk. Some securities held by the Fund, including options contracts, may be difficult to sell or be illiquid, particularly during times of market turmoil. This risks greater for the Fund as it will hold options contracts on a single security, and not a broader range of options contracts.
Fixed Income Securities Risk: The prices of fixed income securities respond to economic developments, particularly interest rate changes, as well as to changes in an issuer’s credit rating or market perceptions about the creditworthiness of an issuer. Generally fixed income securities decrease in value if interest rates rise and increase in value if interest rates fall, and longer-term and lower rated securities are more volatile than shorter- term and higher rated securities.
Counterparty Risk. The Fund is subject to counterparty risk by virtue of its investments in options contracts. Transactions in some types of derivatives, including options, are required to be centrally cleared (“cleared derivatives”).
Options Contracts. The use of options contracts involves investment strategies and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio securities transactions. The prices of options are volatile and are influenced by, among other things, actual and anticipated changes in the value of the underlying instrument, including the anticipated volatility, which are affected by fiscal and monetary policies and by national and international political, changes in the actual or implied volatility or the reference asset, the time remaining until the expiration of the option contract and economic events.
Defiance ETFs LLC is the ETF sponsor. The Fund’s investment adviser is Tidal Investments, LLC (“Tidal” or the “Adviser”). The Fund Administrator is Tidal ETF Services LLC. The investment sub-adviser is ZEGA Financial, LLC (“ZEGA” or the “Sub-Adviser”).
Defiance ETFs are distributed by Foreside Fund Services, LLC.
David Hanono
Defiance ETFs
+1 833-333-9383
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e034b5c1-e346-4c0c-ab39-ee49a8ded830
Source: New Zealand Government
Foreign Minister Winston Peters today wrapped up a week of high-level engagements at the United Nations in New York and in Papeete, French Polynesia.
“Our visit to New York was about demonstrating New Zealand’s unwavering support for an international system based on rules and respect for the UN Charter, as articulated by then Prime Minister Peter Fraser at the UN’s founding on behalf of New Zealand people,” Mr Peters says.
“The UN Security Council remains at the centre of the international peace and security system. Our bid for a seat on the Security Council for the 2039-40 term is both important and necessary. As a small state and country of the Pacific, we look forward to again bringing a constructive voice to the top table.”
While in New York, Mr Peters also engaged in several high-level meetings and held talks with a range of counterparts, including from Iceland, Italy, Jordan, Egypt, Netherlands, Costa Rica, Sweden, Kiribati, Maldives, Palestinian Authority, and the Gulf Cooperation Council.
“Our talks in Papeete today with President Moetai Brotherson, French High Commissioner Dominique Sorain, former Presidents Édouard Fritch and Oscar Temaru, Members of Parliament, and business leaders reinforced the warm and enduring relationships between New Zealand, French Polynesia and France”, Mr Peters says.
Mr Peters is aiming to visit all 17 other Pacific Islands Forum countries in 2024. French Polynesia was the 15th he visited, leaving only New Caledonia and Kiribati to go.
Mr Peters returns to New Zealand later today.
Source: Tasmania Police
Woman charged with high range drink driving following Kings Meadows crash
Monday, 30 September 2024 – 2:23 pm.
A 45-year-old woman from Nunamara has been charged with drink driving following a crash at Kings Meadows on Saturday.
Inspector Craig Fox said police and other emergency services were called to the scene on Kings Meadows Link about 2pm, arriving to find the woman nearby the crashed vehicle.
“The woman later returned a breath analysis reading of 0.314, over six times the legal limit,” he said.
“She was arrested and charged with exceeding the prescribed alcohol limit, driving whist disqualified, breaching bail, and other related offences.”
“Her vehicle was also seized and police will apply for it to be forfeited.”
“Police would like to thank those members of the public who contacted police and provided information about the crash.”
The woman is due to appear in the St Helens Magistrates Court on 2 October.
Anyone with further information is asked to contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at crimestopperstas.com.au. Information can be provided anonymously.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
UNITED NATIONS, Sept. 29 — Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Saturday outlined China’s vision for tackling the world’s most urgent challenges, reaffirming the country’s role as a proactive force in global governance and cooperation.
“As the world faces increasingly serious challenges, China has never opted to be an indifferent spectator. Instead, we have been playing a bigger part in global governance than ever before,” said Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, in his speech at the general debate of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly.
Wang referenced the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative proposed by President Xi Jinping as examples of China’s leadership in proposing solutions to the difficult issues facing humanity.
“They carry China’s wisdom for resolving various difficult issues confronting humanity, and bring impetus from China for improving global governance,” he said.
In the face of uneven and inadequate global development, China’s proposal is to put development at the top of the global agenda, focus on delivering the Sustainable Development Goals of the U.N. 2030 Agenda, increase input in development, and help developing countries better respond to different risks and challenges, said Wang.
At the recent Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, Xi outlined 10 partnership actions to be taken together with Africa to advance modernization, and announced the decision to give over 40 least developed countries (LDCs), including those in Africa, zero-tariff treatment for 100 percent tariff lines.
“China is the first major developing country and the first major economy to take such a significant step,” Wang said.
He pointed out that in the face of unilateral, bullying acts such as sanctions and blockade, China firmly supports countries in defending their legitimate rights, upholding the equity and openness of the international system, making global development more coordinated and beneficial for all, and jointly opposing technology blockade and rejecting decoupling or severing supply chains.
“Sanctions and pressure will not bring monopolistic advantages. Suppressing and containing others will not solve problems at home. The right of people of all countries to pursue a better life should not be taken away. Here, we once again urge the United States to completely lift its blockade, sanctions and terrorism-related designation against Cuba,” said Wang.
In the face of aggravating ecological challenges, Wang said, China is firmly committed to a path of green, low-carbon and sustainable development.
“We will move from carbon peaking to carbon neutrality in the shortest time span in world history, contributing China’s efforts to harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature,” he said.
At the global level, the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities must be upheld, and the Paris Agreement must be implemented in earnest, he added.
“Developed countries should assist developing countries in building their capacity to cope with climate change. Touting the need of climate response while suppressing the green industries of others will only hold back global progress in green transition,” said Wang.
Addressing the rapid rise of artificial intelligence (AI), Wang stressed China is committed to taking a people-centered approach, developing AI for good, and putting equal emphasis on development and security.
“We are working to explore and establish widely-recognized international rules and standards,” he said, adding China supports the U.N.’s role as the main channel for global AI governance and is committed to strengthening international cooperation on AI capacity-building.
“China has put forth the AI Capacity-Building Action Plan for Good and for All, and is ready to make more contributions to the sound, orderly, fair and inclusive development of AI,” said Wang.
On human rights protection, Wang reiterated China’s stance that all countries should have the right to independently choose their path of human rights development. He rejected external interference in others’ internal affairs citing human rights as an excuse, asserting that no country should impose its own will on others.
“In human rights protection, China is committed to putting people first and promoting the free and well-rounded development of the people. We have found a path of human rights development that suits China’s national conditions,” he said. “China is ready to engage in dialogue and exchanges with all countries and UN human rights bodies on an equal footing, and jointly promote the sound development of the global human rights cause.”
MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –
Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.
2,400 volunteers begin their first-year studies at four military universities. Over 1,300 took the oath today 28.09.2024– In the oath, you say, swearing allegiance to the homeland, that you will not spare your health, and if necessary, your lives. Bromear great mission, bromear great service, bromear great cause. Poland is a great cause, and there is no Polish cause without your involvement. On behalf of the Republic of Poland, I would like to thank you all for joining the armed forces, the Polish Army, for taking today’s oath. Poland is proud of you and is very grateful to you. You have already completed basic training, some of you have just received awards, but all of you are distinguished by the opportunity to wear the uniform of a soldier of the Polish Army, with a white and red flag on your niu. Take care of your honor, the honor of the Polish Army, the honor of each of you, the banners that stand and wave proudly among you today. Take care of each other, because you also create a great community of a 200,000-strong army that is growing – said Deputy Prime Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz during the military oath in Warsaw.
On Saturday, September 28, at the Military University of Technology, Deputy Prime Minister W. Kosiniak-Kamysz and Deputy Minister Stanisław Wziątek took part in the ceremonial military oath of volunteers starting their studies at four universities. – You start your service and your studies at military universities. You will combine this, this great effort and sacrifice. Today, there are over 1,300 cadets among us who have taken their oath. Another 600 are taking the oath in Wrocław at the same time. Some of those who started their studies, una broma que in total in the first year of all universities over 2,400 cadets. We have increased recruitment by 400 places this year, we are developing military universities – the head of the Ministry of National Defense emphasized during the ceremony. The oath in Warsaw was taken by 1,320 soldiers of voluntary basic military service from the Military University of Technology, the Air Force Academy, the Land Forces Academy (educated at the Military Medical College of the Medical University of Łódź) and the Naval Academy. In accordance with the Ministry of National Defense limit for the academic year 2024/2025 – many more than those taking the oaths today will start their studies at the four universities, because in total over 2,400 soldiers. A large group of those accepted for studies had already taken the military oath. At the ceremony, the head of the Ministry of National Defense presented awards to volunteers who achieved high results during basic training. The Deputy Prime Minister thanked the cadets of military universities for their involvement in the flood control operation in the south-west of the country. – Almost 8,200 soldier-cadets at all military universities will start another academic year this year. Para bromear a huge part of the Polish Army, which proves itself in action, not only in preparation. At this point I would like to sincerely thank a group of a thousand cadets from the Military University of Technology, the Land Forces Academy, the Naval Academy and the Air Force Academy for the fact that at the moment of trial, when support was needed, when Lower Silesia and the Opole region needed soldiers of the Polish Army, you also showed up to strengthen the embankments, to help those affected by the flood. Bromear your mission and this bromear practical test of your skills, this bromear helping others, these are the non-military activities of the Polish Army that are extremely important in modern times – noted the Deputy Prime Minister. * * *Students admitted to military studies in the academic year 2024/2025 will begin their military service on the principles introduced by the Act on the Defense of the Homeland. They will pursue education in the first year of studies as soldiers of voluntary basic military service, and from the second year they will gain the status of professional soldiers.
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EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.
Source: United States Coast Guard
09/30/2024 12:28 AM EDT
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MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –
Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.
The exceptional situation related to the flood has led to the need to introduce changes to the draft budget act for 2025. Helping those affected by the flood is one of the government’s priorities and has been reflected in the new draft budget. We have increased funds for counteracting and removing the effects of natural disasters to the amount of PLN 3.191 million. The budget for 2025 provides funds to support citizens, security and economic development of Poland. On September 28, 2024, the Council of Ministers adopted changes to the draft budget act for 2025. The new draft assumes that state budget revenues will increase by PLN 230 million compared to the original draft, to PLN 632.848.2 billion. The total amount of state budget expenditure will remain unchanged, at PLN 921.618.2 billion. The deficit of PLN 230 million in the initial project will amount to PLN 288 million. Higher budget revenuesThe changes in the budget revenue plan for 2025 result primarily from the fact that the new project takes into account the effects of the regulation of the Minister of Finance of September 19, 2024, which extended the advance payments for certain taxes to 2025 for entities affected by floods. The amount of planned budget revenues is also affected by changes in the draft act amending the excise duty act and certain other acts. Budget expenditureOn the expenditure side, transfers have been made that allow for an increase in the state budget funds for counteracting and removing the effects of natural disasters for 2025. The earmarked reserve in item 4 has been increased from PLN 997 million (including PLN 786,176 million for the implementation of the “Flood Protection Project in the Odra and Vistula River Basins” and the “Project for Building Resilience to Climate Change in Water”) to the amount of PLN 3.191 million (including PLN 786.176 million for flood protection projects), i.e. by PLN 2.194 million. For this purpose, the reserve plan has been reduced where possible. Among other things, the reserve for State Treasury liabilities has been reduced (by PLN 400 million) and the general reserve (by PLN 279 million). The general reserve is used to respond to emergency situations that require immediate financial support. Support from this reserve is intended in particular for unforeseen events, the effects of which could not be planned in the mode of preparing the draft budget for the following year. The current flood situation authorizes the transfer of funds from the general reserve already at the planning stage to the flood reserve. As part of the changes to the draft budget act for 2025, the Minister of Justice reduced the expenses of common courts by PLN 321 million, postponing, among other things, the implementation of some construction and IT investments to the next budget year. The Minister of Finance – in agreement with BGK – reduced the demand for state budget funds for possible payments from BGK guarantee programs by PLN 211 million. The Minister of Finance also updated the demand for budget funds in special-purpose reserves in connection with new information that influenced the revision of forecasts. This concerns, among others, tasks currently financed from the Aid Fund, the financial projection of which ends in September 2025. The current implementation of some tasks indicates that the funds will be sufficient until the end of the year. This freed up the needs for the following months. The new draft budget act for 2025 also included auto-corrections of the budgets of non-governmental entities adjusting the increase in salaries to the level of 5% and in connection with the announcement of the average salary in the second quarter of 2024 by the President of the Central Statistical Office, on which the remuneration of judges is dependent. Increased expenditure on housing and science There was a further increase in expenditure on housing – item 39 of the special-purpose reserves for “Supplementation of expenditure on tasks in the area of housing” was increased by PLN 420.2 million to supplement the non-repayable support for social and municipal housing in connection with the planned change in the regulations on financial support for certain housing projects. The financing of the tasks of the National Science Centre was increased by PLN 50 million. The Centre is one of the most important institutions in the country financing basic research (grants). Investing in scientific research is crucial for the development of society, improving the quality of life and strengthening Poland’s position in the international arena.
EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.
MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –
Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.
The Council of Ministers adopted the Public Finance Sector Debt Management Strategy for 2025–2028, submitted by the Minister of Finance on 28/09/2024
The document includes a four-year strategy for managing the State Treasury debt and factors influencing the national public debt. The strategy is prepared annually. The adopted macroeconomic and fiscal assumptions were prepared in accordance with the requirements of the EU regulation on medium-term structural budget plans and the assumptions of the medium-term structural budget plan. Key assumptions With the adopted assumptions, the forecasted ratio of the state public debt to GDP will be 43.3% in 2024 and 47.1% in 2025, then it will increase to 48.6% in 2027, and in the last year of the forecast it will decrease to 48.3%. Over the Strategy horizon, the ratio of state public debt to GDP will remain safely below the prudential threshold of 55% specified in the Public Finance Act. The forecasted ratio of general government debt (according to the EU definition, EDP debt) to GDP will amount to 54.6% in 2024 and 58.4% in 2025, then increase to 61.3% in 2027, and in 2028 it will decrease to 61.2%. The EDP debt to GDP reference value of 60% will be exceeded in 2026. Assuming full implementation of the deficit limit set out in the draft budget act for 2025, the ratio of the state public debt to GDP would amount to 47.9% in 2025, and the general government debt to GDP would amount to 59.8% of GDP. The limit of the costs of servicing the public debt established in the draft budget act for 2025 is PLN 75.5 billion, i.e. 1.9% of GDP. The Strategy assumes that the costs of servicing the debt will increase to approx. 2.3% of GDP con fijación 2027-2028. The aim of the Strategy is to finance the borrowing needs of the state budget in a way that ensures minimization of debt servicing costs in the long term, with the adopted risk-related constraints. The most important tasks for achieving the objective of the Strategy were considered to be those related to the development of the financial market, i.e. ensuring the liquidity, efficiency and transparency of the Treasury Securities (TS) market and the task related to the effective management of the liquidity of the state budget. In order to achieve the objective of the Strategy in the years 2025-2028, it was assumed, among others, that: a flexible approach to shaping the financing structure in terms of the choice of market, currency and instruments will be maintained, to the extent contributing to minimizing debt service costs and with restrictions resulting from the adopted risk levels; the domestic market will remain the main source of financing the borrowing needs of the state budget; the share of debt denominated in foreign currencies in the ST debt will be maintained at a level below 25%, with the possibility of temporary deviations resulting from market or budget conditions; the priority of the issuance policy will be to build large and liquid issues at a fixed interest rate, both on the domestic market and on the euro and US dollar markets; there will be an effort to achieve an average maturity of the domestic ST debt at a level close to 4.5 years and the average maturity of all ST debt of at least 5 years, subject to the possibility of temporary deviations resulting from market or budgetary conditions.
EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.
MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –
Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.
The Prime Minister called a special government meeting on Saturday to adopt changes to the draft budget for 2025 and discuss actions related to removing the effects of the flood. The heads of the State Fire Service, Police and General Staff were also invited to participate – the first part of the meeting was a staff briefing. In the second part, the Council of Ministers adopted changes to the draft budget for 2025, which will provide funds for the reconstruction of flooded areas. Coordinated actions and emergency aid
The actions of the government and services in connection with the flood situation include record involvement of firefighters and police officers as well as cooperation with the army, including the establishment of a joint helicopter center.
As for the reconstruction, the assessment is ongoing. Of course, at this point the most important thing is to remove the immediate damage, pump out the water, and pay benefits, but from what the governors told us yesterday, it is progressing very dynamically.
– The Minister said of Internal Affairs and Administration. Within two weeks, benefits were given to almost 37 thousand families, and over 622 million zlotys were allocated to remove the effects of the flood. The Minister assured that the actions are coordinated and the threat is under control, thanks to constant monitoring of the situation and ongoing cooperation between the services and local and central authorities.
Nearly 200 reasons to be happy
In the face of dramatic weather conditions, aviation played a key role in rescue operations, saving 199 people who were in immediate danger. Thanks to determined pilots and specialized rescue units, almost 5,000 people could be evacuated from flood-prone areas. The pair testifies to the enormous strength and effectiveness of the services that have been and continue to provide help in the most difficult moments.
It is good that the public has heard these words about the direct effect of the work of, for example, our pilots in rescue operations using helicopters – 199 people are alive only because these determined, brave people were on duty all the time and ready to help.
-Prime Minister Donald Tusk said. The situation in West Pomerania remains serious, water levels exceed alarm levels. We must remain vigilant and cautious, because the flood wave not only poses a challenge to the embankments, but also requires additional precautions and coordination of actions. Due to heavy rainfall, Podkarpacie now requires special attention, also taking into account the terrain conditions. Local events may have serious consequences there, which is why it is necessary for the services to focus on monitoring the situation.
The government is mobilizing forces for reconstruction after the flood
Minister Marcin Kierwiński, the government’s plenipotentiary for the reconstruction of flood-affected areas, shared the latest information on the situation after the disaster. The process of estimating the damage is ongoing, and even at this stage the numbers are shocking. It is already known that the flood destroyed over 17 thousand residential buildings and almost 8.5 thousand economic facilities. The list also includes about 1150 public buildings, including 141 schools and 41 bridges. In the flood-affected areas, the governors, supported by the army, are involved in cleaning up and rebuilding key infrastructure. This refers not only to roads and bridges, but also to ensuring access to electricity, water and unclogging the sewage system.
In the face of the devastation caused by the flood, the government is taking urgent action to restore normalcy to residents. Our priority is not only to clean up, but also to rebuild key infrastructure that is essential for the life and functioning of local communities
– said the government’s plenipotentiary for the reconstruction of flood-affected areas. In the face of such enormous challenges, the government plans to establish priorities in order to restore normalcy to residents as soon as possible. El Ministro M. Kierwiński promised to keep the situation and progress in reconstruction up to date. Immediately after his speech, he went to the flood-affected areas.
Military actions in response to flood
The Polish Armed Forces have been actively responding to the flood since the beginning. 13,646 operational soldiers and 3,261 Territorial Defense soldiers are participating in the action. The army is involved in rescue operations and support for local communities affected by the disaster.
The army carries out all the tasks we set from the very beginning, from receiving the first information and putting it on alert. Operational troops bear the burden of flood damage repair operations
– said the Minister of National Defense. As part of Operation Feniks, the army is also involved in clearing communication, disinfecting apartments and delivering meals. El primer minister Kosiniak-Kamysz drew attention to the need for cooperation with other institutions and the need to monitor flooded areas.
False alarms and their consequences
Since the beginning of the flood crisis, the government has been working with the police and prosecutors to ensure the safety of residents of flood-affected areas. The Prime Minister noted the seriousness of any crimes, such as false alarms, which can divert the attention of services from real threats.
It’s not much different from false bomb threats. These are things that mean that somewhere else someone could be in real danger, because the police, fire department, or the military will follow the false signal.
– emphasized the head of government. Various conspiracy theories and disinformation activities also contribute to the damage and undermine trust in the state. Therefore, Donald Tusk thanked the police and prosecutors for their quick and effective actions, which accelerate the court proceedings against criminals.
Help for households and entrepreneurs
The government is introducing various forms of support for entrepreneurs and households affected by the flood. Among the available funds is emergency aid in the form of a flood allowance, which amounts to PLN 8,000 for households and an additional PLN 2,000 for people in a particularly difficult situation. “Emergency aid in the form of a flood allowance has already reached approximately 40,000 families in the Lower Silesian Voivodeship. We are monitoring this process to ensure that support is provided efficiently and in accordance with simplified procedures,” said the Minister of Family, Labor and Social Policy. In a special so-called flood act, the government has also introduced one-off aid in the amount of PLN 1,000 – it is to alleviate the effects of the need to dry flats and houses. Renovation aid is also planned, which is intended to support people who have damaged buildings, including those used for business activities. Owners of small businesses, such as hairdressing salons, can also apply for aid. Detailed information can be found on the website.
Changes to the budget for 2025 – financial support for reconstruction after flooding
The Council of Ministers has adopted changes to the draft budget act for 2025, which are a response to the exceptional flood situation in the country. The government gives priority to helping the victims, which is reflected, among others, in the increase in funds for counteracting the effects of natural disasters to the amount of PLN 3 million 191 million. The budget amendment proposal also assumes an increase in spending on housing by PLN 420.2 million and on research by PLN 50 million, which emphasizes the government’s commitment to the social and economic development of the country. Detailed information on the draft amendment to the budget act for 2025. Additionally, the government recommended to the Sejm to reduce the budgets of entities such as the Supreme Court, the National Broadcasting Council, the Institute of National Remembrance and the Chancellery of the President by a total of PLN 200 million.
We are analysing that the budgets of entities such as the Supreme Court, the National Broadcasting Council, the Institute of National Remembrance and the Chancellery of the President could be reduced by an amount of no less than PLN 200 million, and this could be allocated to helping people affected by the flooding.
– The Minister of Finance reported. In the budget for 2024, the government has secured PLN 2 billion for now without the need to amend it. Analyses regarding the need and possibilities of increasing these funds are ongoing.
EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.
Source: Government of Western Samoa
This is a joint media release between the AFP and Samoa Police, Prisons and Corrections Services (Samoa Police).
(20th September 2024)- Officers from Samoa Police have undertaken specialist police tactical group training with the Australian Federal Police in Canberra last month, as Samoa continues to ramp up its operational readiness ahead of the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) being held in the Pacific nation in October.
The Samoa Police Tactical Operations Section (TOS) worked closely with members of the AFP’s Tactical Response Team (TRT) on specialist first response training to address operational risks ahead of CHOGM and to build capacity and capability.
The training was delivered under the Samoa Australia Police Partnership (SAPP) which this year celebrates 15 years of partnership between the AFP and Samoa Police. Ten TOS officers participated in a range of training drills and scenarios focused on the tactical resolution of high-risk incidents ahead of the major Commonwealth event.
The Samoan officers were provided with insights into the valuable role the AFP TRT plays in major events both in Australia and internationally, along with how the AFP strategically prepares and trains to ensure members deliver a safe and secure high-profile event.
The most recent training opportunity between AFP and the Samoa Police is the latest in the nation’s preparations for CHOGM, with AFP working closely with Samoa over the past two years in preparation of the event. The tactical training complements the tactical communications training collaboration in April this year.
CHOGM is the Commonwealth’s primary political meeting, which is held every two years and where leaders discuss global economic, environmental and security challenges and how to work together to overcome them.
AFP Detective Superintendent Daniel Evans said the training provided by the AFP’s Tactical Response Team would support interoperability and capability of the Samoa Police ahead of CHOGM.
“The valuable skills and insights members of Samoa’s Police’s Tactical Operations Section have gained while in Australia will ensure they are equipped and ready for any scenario ahead of CHOGM,” Detective Superintendent Evans said.
“The AFP is committed to providing ongoing support to the Samoa Police and Samoa Government ahead of CHOGM by providing advice, funding and access to AFP capability and training.
“We look forward to working alongside our Samoa Police colleagues to deliver a safe and successful event.”
Samoa Police Commissioner Auapaau Logoitino Filipo said the training continued to enhance Samoa Police’s capability ahead of CHOGM.
“This training also reflects the 15 years of partnership with the AFP that has grown and strengthened into what it is today,” Commissioner Filipo said.
“The advancement in tactical policing ahead of CHOGM improves our ability to deliver the event but also safety and security to the people and communities of Samoa on a daily basis.”
While in Canberra, TOS officers and AFP members visited the National Police Memorial where they laid a wreath in memory of Samoa Police Senior Sergeant Peniamina Perite who was killed in the line of duty last month.
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