Source: United Nations MIL-OSI 2
he Secretary-General met with H.E. Mr. Jeyhun Aziz oglu Bayramov, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan.
They discussed the cooperation between the United Nations and Azerbaijan in the context of Azerbaijan’s Presidency of COP29, including the finalization of a new climate finance goal.
They also exchanged views on the progress of the talks on the peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan, and demining.
Source: United Nations secretary general
The Secretary-General met with H.E. Mr. Rashid Meredov, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister for Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The Secretary-General appreciated Turkmenistan’s policy of permanent neutrality and commended Turkmenistan for its efforts to eliminate statelessness. They exchanged views on furthering cooperation between the United Nations and Turkmenistan, as well as regional peace and security issues, including Afghanistan.
Source: United Nations secretary general
The Secretary-General met with H.E. Mr. Maris Sangiampongsa, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand. The Secretary-General welcomed the close cooperation between Thailand and the United Nations. The Secretary-General and the Foreign Minister discussed the implementation of the Pact for the Future and regional issues, including the situation in Myanmar.
Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency
Headline: How to Help After Hurricane Helene
How to Help After Hurricane Helene
ATLANTA – There are many ways to help those affected by Hurricane Helene across the Southeast. Here are some of the organizations providing support to people who experienced loss from the storm:
Additionally, National VOAD members and partners are assisting communities in need. National VOAD members and partners will serve these communities as long as necessary. There is no request for donations outside of cash. do not send unsolicited donated goods, and please do not self-deploy.
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Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency
Headline: FEMA and Partners Respond to Hurricane Helene Across the Southeast
FEMA and Partners Respond to Hurricane Helene Across the Southeast
WASHINGTON — Across the Southeast, FEMA is working closely with federal, state, tribal and local officials to coordinate and respond to the impacts of Hurricane Helene.
Anticipating the need for additional federal resources, the Biden-Harris Administration granted emergency declarations for Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina and Tennessee to assist these states with preparation and response efforts in the immediate aftermath of the storm.
FEMA’s National Response Coordination Center in Washington, D.C. and the Regional Response Coordination Center in Atlanta are activated 24-hours to coordinate moving personnel, commodities and response assets as needed.
Summary of additional efforts to date:
Dekle Beach, Fla. – Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell, Florida Division of Emergency Management Director Kevin Guthrie and FEMA Region 4 Administrator Robert Samaan tour damage and discuss ongoing response operations for Hurricane Helene in Florida. (FEMA photos by Kirk Hanlin, Jaclyn Rothenberg)
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St. Petersburg, Fla. (Sept. 28, 2024) – Colorado Task Force conducts search and rescue after Hurricane Helene.
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Haywood County, NC– Massachusetts Task Force 1 is working alongside federal, state, and local agencies to conduct urban search and rescue operations near Haywood County, NC. On September 27, members of MA-TF1 made successful rescues of two people and multiple pets during search and rescue operations in active flood areas. (Photo Credit: Scott McGuire, MA-TF1)
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Source: Australian Ministers 1
The Albanese Labor Government continues to activate the future of the Molonglo Valley – with the National Capital Plan amended to reclassify this district as Canberra’s sixth town centre.
The amendment paves the way for future development in this region, from commercial to community facilities – ensuring that as the Molonglo community grows, infrastructure and services keep pace.
As part of this, the Albanese and ACT Labor Governments have committed to working together to deliver a new community centre in Molonglo, along with upgrades to local streets, parks and green space.
This commitment builds on work already underway and jointly funded by the Albanese and ACT Labor Governments.
This includes the $225 million construction of the Molonglo River Bridge and upgrades to John Gorton Drive, which will significantly enhance access to the growing Molonglo region.
The reclassification of Molonglo under the National Capital Plan follows stakeholder and public consultation in May and June – and recognises that the projected population of Molonglo will increase demand on local services and amenities.
Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Territories, Kristy McBain MP:
“More people are calling the Molonglo home, with the population expected to reach around 70,000 by 2050.
“That’s why we’ve made this amendment – paving the way for the development of infrastructure and services this growing community will need in their own backyard.
“The Albanese Government is committed to working with the ACT Labor Government to boost the liveability of the Molonglo, investing in projects that will support local jobs and stimulate the local economy.”
Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Bean, David Smith MP:
“The Molonglo is a great place to live and work – which is why the Albanese Government is unlocking its potential and committing to its future.
“This is one of the fastest-growing parts of the ACT, which is why we’ll continue to work with the ACT Labor Government to deliver infrastructure and services for this flourishing area.”
Source: Australia Safe Travel Advisories
There is widespread flooding and landslides across Nepal. Heavy rain may further impact local infrastructure and disruptions to transport and other essential services could occur. If you’re in the affected areas, check the media for updates and follow the instructions of local authorities (see ‘Safety’).
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Operation Archer was previously deployed in Alice Springs early August 2024 to provide an immediate response to stolen motor vehicle crimes. Operation Archer was recommenced yesterday to support frontline police and Strike Force Viper investigators with additional capability to stop high risk property crime involving stolen motor vehicles and resulting attacks on police.
Operation Archer personnel responded to two instances of stolen motor vehicle crime in Alice Springs overnight.
The first instance, at 4:15pm on Saturday, was reports of a vehicle stolen during a burglary in East Side and later driven dangerously in the CBD prior to being dumped after 10:30pm. During the driving in the CBD the occupants of the stolen motor vehicle threw rocks at police and other frontline workers, damaging vehicles but not injuring officers or workers.
The second instance, at 1:30am this morning, was reports a security guard was robbed of his car keys at knife point near the Olive Pink Botanical Gardens. This stolen motor vehicle again returned to the CBD and drove dangerously. Operation Archer personnel pursued the vehicle onto a dirt track where it attempted to evade police and throw projectiles including fireworks at officers.
This stolen motor vehicle was successfully apprehended when it slowed on the dirt track and the occupants fled into the bush. All seven children, aged 15, 14, 13, 13, 12, 12, and 11 were arrested at the scene. All children remain in police custody this morning, except the 11-year-old who was released into the care of a responsible adult.
Strike Force Viper are leading investigations and police urge anyone with information to contact police on 131 444 and quote reference NTP2400097558. Anonymous reports can also be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.
Commander James Gray-Spence said “Operation Archer will continue in Alice Springs, both investigating overnight offences and also generating significant proactive activity, targeting an established list of wanted offenders.
“Operation Archer demonstrates our steadfast commitment to reduce all crime with coordinated responses using all available frontline, investigative and specialist capabilities.
“Thank you to police and frontline workers who deploy each and every night in Alice Springs responding to significant incidents. Your dedicated team work keeping Alice Springs safe is appreciated by everyone in the community.”
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Explore ceramic-making techniques in Liling of central China’s Hunan
Source: United Nations secretary general
The Secretary-General met with H.E. Mr. Yvan Gil Pinto, Minister of People’s Power for Foreign Affairs of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. They discussed the situation following Venezuela’s presidential election. The Secretary-General underscored the need for an inclusive political dialogue and respect for human rights. They exchanged views on Venezuela’s cooperation with the United Nations system.
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El Secretario General se reunió con S.E. Yvan Gil Pinto, Ministro del Poder Popular para Relaciones Exteriores de la República Bolivariana de Venezuela. Conversaron sobre la situación posterior a la elección presidencial de Venezuela. El Secretario General subrayó la necesidad de un diálogo político inclusivo y del respeto a los derechos humanos. Intercambiaron impresiones sobre la cooperación de Venezuela con el Sistema de las Naciones Unidas.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Northern Territory Police have arrested two men after an aggravated burglary in Moulden overnight.
Around 11:50m, police received reports that 2 males had unlawfully entered a residence on Moulden Terrace, armed with edged weapons.
Two occupants were at home at the time, with one occupant confronting the pair near the outside staircase.
An altercation has occurred and both the 70-year-old male victim and the offender have allegedly fallen down the stairs.
The offenders fled the scene while the 70-year-old was conveyed to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Detectives from Serious Crime are investigating the incident and two adult males were arrested earlier today.
They both remain in custody and are expected to be charged later this evening.
Police are calling for residents to review their CCTV for suspicious behaviour and to contact 131 444 and quote reference number P24268490.
Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 00 or through https://crimestoppers.com.au/.
Source: New Zealand Government
Catch limits for several fisheries will be increased following a review that shows stocks of those species are healthy and abundant.
The changes are being made as part of Fisheries New Zealand’s biannual sustainability review, which considers catch limits and management settings across New Zealand’s fisheries.
“Scientific evidence and information about our snapper stocks tells us these fisheries are thriving and abundant,” Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says.
“More of the fish can be sustainably harvested, which is why recreational allowances and commercial catch limits for some snapper stocks will be increased.
“Making the most of these abundant fisheries benefits those who make a living from our fisheries, and the economy,” Mr Jones says.
Other changes include increases in the recreational and commercial take in the Kaikōura pāua fishery, but also an increase in the minimum size.
“The pāua in this fishery continues to become healthier, following its devastation in the Kaikōura earthquakes.
“To make sure this fishery continues to do well by protecting more spawning pāua, I have increased the minimum size for pāua there from 125mm to 130mm.”
While some fisheries are doing well, others require reduced catch limits.
“Commercial catch limits and allowances for the Southland blue cod stock (BCO 5) have also been reduced. Blue cod is a popular fish for New Zealanders, and these reductions will help ensure this fishery is sustainable and can be enjoyed in future,” Mr Jones says.
Decisions are based on the best available scientific information about the stocks, as well as input from iwi and public feedback.
“I’d like to acknowledge everyone who provided feedback on the proposals. Submissions from tangata whenua, recreational and commercial fishers, environmental groups, and the public play an important part in the advice I receive and the decisions made,” Mr Jones says.
More information can be found on Fisheries New Zealand’s website at: https://www.mpi.govt.nz/consultations/review-of-sustainability-measures-for-fisheries-october-2024-round/
Summary of the stocks with catch limit increases:
Summary of the stocks with catch limit decreases:
Stocks with adjustments to deemed value rates:
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Texas Ted Cruz
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued the following statement today after Hezbollah confirmed that Israel eliminated Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and significant parts of Hezbollah’s command.
In a statement, Sen. Cruz said, “Israel’s actions against Hezbollah over the last two weeks have again and dramatically demonstrated why it is our most important ally in the Middle East. Hezbollah is an Iranian-controlled terrorist group that has the blood of hundreds of Americans and uncountable thousands of innocent civilians from across the world on their hands. The group and its leader Hassan Nasrallah were used by the Ayatollah to secure Iranian domination of Lebanon and build a network of terrorist armies across the Middle East. Israel’s successes in countering Hezbollah, including and especially the liquidation of Nasrallah yesterday, underscore in dramatic fashion that Israel and America share the same enemies, and that when our Israel allies move to advance their interests they directly enhance the national security of Americans.
“Unfortunately, Israel’s historical victories are being accomplished despite the policies of the Biden-Harris administration. The administration has allowed over $100 billion to flow towards the Iranian regime, money which then flowed to Hezbollah and enabled its terrorism against Americans, Israelis, and across the world. In Lebanon, Biden-Harris officials elevated Hezbollah both diplomatically and militarily, even successfully pressuring Israel to cede territory toward the group. They have refused to impose mandatory sanctions, which I drafted and passed into law in 2018, to hold Hezbollah accountable for its use of human shields. They consistently and falsely downplayed the extent of Hezbollah’s control over Lebanon and its malign activities, and sought to block efforts to counter that control. Meanwhile the administration has since day 1 sought to undermine and constrain Israel, and indeed over the last two weeks Biden-Harris officials have engaged in a frantic international effort to impose a ceasefire on Israel and prevent our Israeli allies from achieving its successes.
“Americans are immeasurably safer today because Israel ignored that pressure and dismantled Hezbollah. Israel’s achievements demonstrate beyond any doubt that these Biden-Harris policies have been catastrophic, and that the United States should reverse those policies.
“The Ayatollah will not give up his investment in Hezbollah. He will seek to rearm the terrorist group, and to use the Beirut Airport and Lebanese seaports to do so. American officials will be tempted to turn a blind eye to those activities, even as Biden-Harris officials continue to undermine Israel. Those policies acutely undermine the safety and prosperity of Americans. The policy of the United States should be to unequivocally support our Israeli allies as they continue to dismantle Iran’s terrorist infrastructure in Lebanon and across the Middle East, for as long as it takes.”
Source: China State Council Information Office
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said on Saturday that it successfully intercepted a surface-to-surface missile launched from Yemen toward Israel.
The IDF stated that the missile was intercepted outside Israel’s borders.
The missile triggered sirens in several areas of central Israel, including Tel Aviv.
The Israeli Magen David Adom emergency health service reported that several people sustained minor injuries while rushing to shelters.
Source: China State Council Information Office
Hurricane Helene has led to the death of more than 30 people in the United States though it has weakened to a tropical storm after landfall.
The death toll has reached at least 35 across Florida, Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina, including the death of at least 17 people in South Carolina, according to a report by The Associated Press on Friday.
Hurricane Helene hit Florida’s Big Bend area Thursday night as a Category 4, but its impact carried far beyond into the states of Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia. Once expected to reach eight feet of rainfall, Florida’s Big Bend area received more than 15 feet.
Near 4 million people have had their power lines cut due to the storm and are without power, according to PowerOutage.US., which tracks and records power outages across the country. There is no news on when the outages will be restored.
In Georgia, around 115 buildings have been made structurally unsound, as officials rush to rescue those trapped inside. It has been reported that 50 Tennessee citizens are stuck on the roof of Unicoi County Hospital due to rising floodwaters. In North Carolina, 290 roads have been closed due to severe flooding and landslides. The state received close to 30 inches of rain due to the hurricane.
Currently, efforts are underway to free people trapped in buildings and areas inaccessible by foot. State patrols are sending out boats and choppers as part of their water rescue teams. The National Guard has deployed teams to Florida to help with any requests for assistance.
U.S. President Joe Biden has approved emergency declarations in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Alabama prior to the landfall of Hurricane Helene.
Source: US State of North Carolina
Headline: Rescues Completed, Emergency Supplies Rushed to Western North Carolina Communities Hit by Hurricane Helene
Rescues Completed, Emergency Supplies Rushed to Western North Carolina Communities Hit by Hurricane Helene
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Rescue and recovery operations continue to take place in western North Carolina as resources and aid are brought into the region. While North Carolina Emergency Management officials are working around the clock to support local efforts and coordinate emergency supply drop-offs, communication problems persist in the region and North Carolinians are urged to not travel to the area.
“The catastrophic devastation to western North Carolina is like nothing we have ever seen,” said Governor Cooper. “Emergency responders are working around the clock coordinating rescues and getting resources to help people with their immediate needs as they work to save lives.”
Connect with loved ones
As of 8pm Saturday, a confirmed 10 North Carolinians have lost their lives due to Helene, with latest was a man who drove his truck on a flooded road. Swiftwater and helicopter rescue crews have rescued more than 200 people since Thursday.
Governor Cooper has urged communications providers including cell phone carriers and utilities to restore service as quickly as possible. North Carolina’s emergency management and transportation workers are pushing to open roads and rush supplies as quickly as possible. Utilities and communications are returning in some areas, but it may be days before service is fully restored.
Meanwhile, North Carolina residents trying to connect with family members may call NC 211 (or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from outside the state) to report missing loved ones. People in the impacted areas can indicate they are safe by checking in on Facebook crisis response or reporting themselves safe through Red Cross Reunification by calling 1-800- ED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Only use 911 for life-threatening emergencies so the lines remain open for critical situations.
Emergency response efforts & resources
Emergency management crews are working with local officials in western North Carolina communities to assess damage and identify needs and find solutions. The State Emergency Operations Center is working around the clock to support locals and deliver supplies and aid.
Supplying drinkable water is a top priority for emergency crews. Seven water plants in Avery, Burke, Haywood, Jackson, Rutherford, Watauga and Yancey counties are closed, impacting nearly 70,000 households. A total of 17 water plants have reported having no power, and an additional 23 are operating on backup power. There are 50 boil water advisories in effect across western communities. Information on how to safely boil water is available on the CDC website: How to Make Water Safe in an Emergency.
The Governor has deployed the NC National Guard with 410 troops and 146 vehicles including high water vehicles to help with rescues, transport patients to medical care and deliver personnel and equipment to help with storm response.
Approximately 630,000 customers in North Carolina remained without power Saturday afternoon with the bulk of them within Buncombe County. Fifteen shelters are currently open and housing approximately 500 people. (See ReadyNC.gov for latest)
On Saturday Interstate 26 south of Asheville was opened but remains the only major thoroughfare into the region due to damage to Interstate 40 and other routes. State transportation officials continue to urge people to avoid travel anywhere in western North Carolina as about 390 roads and dozens of main highways remain closed Saturday due to flooding, downed trees, landslides or storm damage. The N.C. Department of Transportation is prioritizing work to reopen interstates, U.S. and state highways before getting to secondary routes, but the department also is working with utility companies and local emergency officials to find alternative routes and to assist in maintaining access to shelters and restoring power.
State officials report that while many of the rivers and tributaries are still far above flood stage, waters are receding and most are expected to be back to near-normal levels by late Monday.
For the latest updates and information, check these resources:
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Source: China State Council Information Office
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York, Sept. 27, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said in New York on Friday that China is willing to join Egypt in pushing their comprehensive strategic partnership to a new level.
Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks during talks with Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York.
Under the strategic guidance of Chinese President Xi Jinping and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, bilateral ties have maintained a sound momentum of development, he said.
China, Wang said, is ready to work with Egypt to implement the consensus reached by the two presidents, carry forward the fine tradition of strong support for each other, advance mutually beneficial and win-win cooperation in various fields, and jointly stride toward the direction of building a community with a shared future.
The Chinese side is ready to closely coordinate with Egypt within multilateral frameworks such as the United Nations, the BRICS mechanism and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization to jointly safeguard the interests of developing countries, he added.
For his part, Abdelatty said Egypt is willing to work with China to implement the consensus between the leaders of the two countries, and deepen cooperation in various fields.
He also said that Egypt welcomes continuous participation by Chinese enterprises in Egypt’s modernization.
Source: China State Council Information Office
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Peruvian Foreign Minister Elmer Schialer Salcedo on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York, Sept. 27, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said in New York on Friday China is ready to work with Peru to implement the consensus reached by the two heads of state, and deepen mutually beneficial cooperation in various fields.
Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks during talks with Peruvian Foreign Minister Elmer Schialer Salcedo on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York.
China-Peru relations have long been at the forefront of China-Latin America relations, he said, adding that China values its relations with Peru.
Wang also said that the Chinese side firmly supports Peru as the host of the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in November.
He called on both sides to strengthen coordination and cooperation in international and regional affairs and take China-Peru relations to a new level in the new era.
For his part, Schialer said Peruvian companies are optimistic about the Chinese market, and look forward to strengthening cooperation with China.
He added that his country welcomes more investment by Chinese businesses in Peru.
Source: China State Council Information Office
Hezbollah confirmed on Saturday that its leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah was killed in the Israeli airstrikes targeting the militant group’s command headquarters a day earlier in Dahieh, Beirut’s southern suburbs.
Previously, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said in a statement on Saturday that the Hezbollah leader was killed in an airstrike on the Lebanese organization’s target in the southern suburbs of Beirut.
The statement said that Ali Karki, commander of the southern front in Hezbollah, and other commanders in the militant group were also killed in the massive airstrike.
“Warplanes of the Air Force under the precise intelligence guidance of the Military Intelligence and the defense system, attacked the central headquarters of Hezbollah, located underground, under a residential building in Dahieh in Beirut,” according to the statement.
It added that the attack was carried out while top commanders of Hezbollah were at their headquarters.
Israel has intensified its airstrikes across Lebanon since Monday, marking the most extensive military action in the region since 2006.
This marks the latest escalation of the ongoing clashes that began on Oct. 8, 2023, when Hezbollah started launching rockets at Israel in solidarity with Hamas in the Gaza Strip, prompting Israel’s retaliatory artillery fire and airstrikes into southeastern Lebanon.
Source: China State Council Information Office 3
UNITED NATIONS, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) — China is willing to enhance cooperation with the United Nations in promoting world peace and development, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Friday at a meeting with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.
Meeting Guterres at the UN headquarters on the sidelines of the ongoing 79th UN General Assembly, Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, congratulated the UN on its success in convening the Summit of the Future. The adoption of the Pact for the Future reflects the common aspirations of most countries and is a document that embodies the principles of multilateralism.
China stands ready to enhance cooperation with the UN, so as to promote world peace and development, translate the vision of the Pact for the Future into reality, and chart a better future for humankind, Wang said.
Upholding the authority of the UN and letting the UN play the core role in international affairs is more important than ever, now that the international landscape becomes increasingly complicated and global challenges and risks are highlighted, Wang said.
China fully supports the work of the UN, including the reform of the current framework governing international finance, as well as the UN’s role as the main channel coordinating the application of artificial intelligence in global governance, Wang said.
China’s support for the UN also involves facilitating the organization’s active pursuit for the resolution of the Ukraine crisis and the conflict in Gaza, so that the UN is capable of better maintaining world peace and security, he said.
Appreciating China’s long-term support for the UN and the country’s active contribution to the Summit of the Future, Guterres expressed the hope that all parties will put their commitment into action, jointly implementing the hard-won Pact for the Future.
In today’s world where the risk of fragmentation is setting back the process of globalization, Guterres called on all members of the international community to join hands in opposing protectionism, saying that the UN, while expecting and believing that China will continue to play an important role in international affairs, will spare no effort for peace and fulfill its responsibility for development. Enditem
Source: China State Council Information Office 3
TOKYO, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) — Elected as the new leader of Japan’s ruling party after a heated race, veteran politician Shigeru Ishiba is set to face daunting challenges ranging from restoring public trust to addressing economic stagnation as he prepares to assume the role of Japan’s prime minister.
The 67-year-old former defense minister narrowly defeated female hopeful Economic Security Minister Sanae Takaichi in a run-off on Friday as a record nine candidates competed to lead the country’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP).
Ishiba is expected to be officially elected Japan’s prime minister on Oct. 1, succeeding outgoing Fumio Kishida to lead a country facing a complex array of pressing issues.
First and foremost on Ishiba’s task list is to restore public trust in the LDP, whose image has been heavily tarnished by the political funds scandal involving unreported income and misuse of political funds, which led to the indictment of several lawmakers.
At a press conference following his win, Ishiba has vowed to give his “full effort” to rebuild trust and unity within the LDP, calling for a party that is humble, fair, and transparent, where rules are followed, and the public can hold leaders accountable.
While the current term of lower house members is to expire in October 2025, Ishiba will also need to decide when to dissolve the lower house, as in Japan, a new prime minister often calls a snap election to dissolve the lower house at an early date to capitalize on a high approval rating to seek a public mandate.
While indicating that a general election is necessary, Ishiba emphasized the importance of debating key issues with opposition parties before making any decision.
On the economic front, Ishiba’s economic agenda promises continuity with those of Kishida but aims to make these policies more effective.
In recent years, sluggish economic growth, wage stagnation, rising prices and the yen’s sharp depreciation have created woes for the Japanese public, and how Ishiba will differentiate his policies to tackle these economic challenges will be a key focus to watch.
Stressing measures to accelerate real wage growth and boost consumer spending, Ishiba on Friday also highlighted Japan’s population decline as a major concern, reiterating his focus on regional revitalization.
On foreign policy and national security, Ishiba, considered a defense policy expert, has put forward conservative proposals, including the establishment of an “Asian version of the NATO military alliance” and revisions to war-renouncing Article 9 of the pacifist Constitution. He has declined to say whether he would visit the controversial Yasukuni Shrine as prime minister.
Regarding Japan-U.S. relations, Ishiba envisions a more equal and mutual Japan-U.S. security alliance, including having Japanese Self-Defense Force bases in the United States, a rare proposal within the conservative LDP.
In a report on Friday, Japan’s Kyodo News said Ishiba may face a make-or-break moment as the country’s prime minister, citing Yu Uchiyama, a political science professor at the University of Tokyo, as saying, adding the longevity of the new administration hinges on how drastic the next leader’s reforms will be. Enditem
Source: China State Council Information Office 3
China’s national news agency, Xinhua, on Thursday opened a photo exhibition documenting the historic transformation of the country over the past decades.
The exhibition opened at the National Financial Information Center in Beijing just days before Oct. 1, when the People’s Republic of China marks its 75th founding anniversary.
On display are nearly 500 photographs spanning various historical periods, selected from Xinhua’s collection of over 10 million images, the largest photo archive in the country.
From “keeping warm” to “looking good” and “being fashionable”, clothing trends in China indicate the rising living standards for Chinese people. Join us to take a glimpse at the evolution of everyday clothing among Chinese people over the past decades through a selection of photos from the exhibition.
Source: United Nations secretary general
Hello New York! Hello global citizens!
What an amazing crowd!
And what an amazing day.
I know it’s going to be really easy to be miserable in today’s world.
And it’s easy to create chaos and tear things down.
But when I look at this crowd today, I see hope.
And I know that you all know that the statistics that you’ve heard today, they’re not numbers.
They’re people.
Real people with lives in a world that wants to survive and to thrive.
And we’re acting here today by building lasting change.
And that’s how we go from saving one child to creating health systems that save every child.
That’s how we go from feeding one girl to building food systems so that no child goes to bed hungry.
And that’s how we go from picking up one piece of trash to creating a whole city, cleaning city and coast line.
And this’s how we go from global citizen to an unstoppable movement for change.
That is what I see in you tonight.
This week at the United Nations, world leaders adopted a Pact for the Future.
To keep the Global Goals alive.
To make artificial intelligence a force for good.
And to build a world of peace.
To see that countries have money so that they can invest in people’s lives.
To Take these messages – take the energy – take the enthusiasm — of tonight.
And keep speaking out for the whole world to hear.
Are we ready to act?
New York, I can’t hear you, ‘are we ready to act?’.
Are we ready to Defeat Poverty?
Are we ready to Defend Our Planet?
Are we ready to Demand equity?
A great man, Nelson Mandela once said: “It’s always seems impossible until it is done”.
So let’s get it done.
Thank you.
Source: China State Council Information Office 3
JERUSALEM, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) — The Israel Defense Forces announced on Saturday the killing of Hassan Nasrallah, the leader of the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, following Israel’s airstrikes on the southern suburbs of Beirut. Enditem
Source: China State Council Information Office 2
Sam Hou Fai, the only candidate running for the sixth-term chief executive of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR), on Saturday emphasized the need to comprehensively implement the “one country, two systems” as a basic guideline for governing the SAR.
Sam made the remarks during a 3-hour presentation and question-and-answer session for his political platform with the Chief Executive Election Committee and the press.
In his presentation, Sam noted that Macao’s successful practices over the past 25 years since its return demonstrate the strong vitality and significant advantages of the “one country, two systems” principle. Facing a new start, he proposed the election philosophy “to forge ahead together by upholding fundamental principles and breaking new ground,” aiming to meet residents’ aspirations for a better life as the primary pursuit.
He urged upholding national sovereignty, security and developmental interests as the highest principles and promoting moderately diversified economic development to better integrate into and serve the overall national development.
Sam outlined key governance focuses for the next five years. He stated the need to enhance public governance capabilities and levels, center on residents, promote good governance, strengthen scientific decision-making, optimize the interaction between administration and legislation, safeguard judicial independence, improve civil service management systems, and foster ethnic harmony.
He also called for accelerating moderately diversified economic development, which includes implementing a comprehensive plan for economic diversification, establishing a high-level economic governance system, creating a globally competitive business environment, promoting the healthy development of the gaming industry in accordance with the law, studying the establishment of government-industry funds, and accelerating the development of a diversified evaluation and statistical system.
In terms of better integrating into and serving the national development, Sam proposed taking a leading role in promoting the integration of tax systems between Macao and the Chinese mainland, and supporting the construction of the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin, participating in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area construction, deepening cooperation with Portuguese-speaking countries, and engaging in the Belt and Road construction to enhance entry and transit convenience for friendly countries and regions.
He also highlighted the need to improve education, science and technology talent systems and emphasized the importance of improving people’s livelihoods.
After presenting his political platform, Sam addressed questions from election committee members regarding public governance capabilities and governance levels, the healthy and orderly development of the gaming industry in accordance with the law, small and medium-sized enterprises, social service policies, and legal reforms.
Source: China State Council Information Office 2
Six people were killed and one person injured during a gas leakage incident in Golmud City in northwest China’s Qinghai Province, according to the municipal government on Saturday.
The incident occurred in Yanqiao Village on Tuesday and was caused by toxic and harmful gases that leaked through the households’ sewer pipes.
The injured person has recovered after receiving treatment in hospital and those affected by the incident have been relocated. The cause of the incident is still under investigation while the environment near the incident spot has been deemed safe.
Source: Australia Safe Travel Advisories
The ongoing conflict in Lebanon and the Occupied Palestinian Territories could lead to increased tensions in other locations in the Middle East. There is an increased threat of attacks against Israeli interests across the region. Demonstrations and protest activity may also occur, and localised security situations could deteriorate with little notice. Avoid all demonstrations and protests. The ongoing conflict may also result in airspace closures, flight cancellations, flight diversions and other travel disruptions across the region (see ‘Safety’).
Source: China State Council Information Office 3
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said in a statement on Saturday that Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah was killed in an airstrike on the Lebanese organization’s target in the southern suburbs of Beirut.
The statement said that Ali Karki, commander of the southern front in Hezbollah, and other commanders in the militant group were also killed in the massive airstrike.
“Warplanes of the Air Force under the precise intelligence guidance of the Military Intelligence and the defense system, attacked the central headquarters of Hezbollah, located underground, under a residential building in Dahieh in Beirut,” according to the statement.
It added that the attack was carried out while top commanders of Hezbollah were at their headquarters.
Israel has intensified its airstrikes across Lebanon since Monday, marking the most extensive military action in the region since 2006.
This marks the latest escalation of the ongoing clashes that began on Oct. 8, 2023, when Hezbollah started launching rockets at Israel in solidarity with Hamas in the Gaza Strip, prompting Israel’s retaliatory artillery fire and airstrikes into southeastern Lebanon.
Source: China State Council Information Office
The Islamic Resistance in Iraq, a Shiite militia group, on Saturday claimed responsibility for two drone attacks on Israeli targets.
The group said in separate statements that its fighters launched two drone attacks on vital sites in Israel’s Tel Aviv and Eilat, without specifying the affected sites or reporting any casualties.
Earlier in the day, the group claimed four drone attacks on Israeli targets — three at dawn on sites in northern Israel, including one in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, and a fourth attack on a site in southern Israel.
The attacks come following the latest devastating Israeli airstrikes on the southern suburbs of Lebanon’s capital Beirut, during which Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah was killed.
Since the onset of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in the Gaza Strip on Oct. 7, 2023, the Islamic Resistance in Iraq has conducted multiple attacks on Israeli and U.S. targets in the region to show its support for the Palestinians in Gaza.
The group has recently escalated its attacks on Israel amid ongoing intensive Israeli airstrikes across Lebanon.
US Senate News:
Source: The White House
Today, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. declared that a major disaster exists in the State of North Carolina and ordered Federal aid to supplement State, tribal, and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by Tropical Storm Helene beginning on September 25, 2024, and continuing.
The President’s action makes Federal funding available to affected individuals in Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Clay, Cleveland, Gaston, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Transylvania, Watauga, Wilkes, and Yancey Counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.
Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.
Federal funding also is available to State, tribal, and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work in Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Clay, Cleveland, Gaston, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Transylvania, Watauga, Wilkes, and Yancey Counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.
Finally, Federal funding is available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.
Mr. E. Craig Levy, Sr. of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has been appointed to coordinate Federal recovery operations in the affected areas.
Damage assessments are continuing in other areas, and more counties and additional forms of assistance may be designated after the assessments are fully completed.
Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362), or by using the FEMA App. Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION MEDIA SHOULD CONTACT THE FEMA NEWS DESK AT (202) 646-3272 OR FEMA-NEWS-DESK@FEMA.DHS.GOV.