NewzIntel.com

Category: Latin America

  • MIL-OSI USA: October 14th, 2024 VIDEO: Heinrich Statement on Indigenous Peoples’ Day

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich
    ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) released the following video statement in commemoration of Indigenous Peoples’ Day. Heinrich is leading the effort in Congress to pass legislation that would replace the current federal holiday of Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples’ Day.
    VIDEO: U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich Indigenous Peoples’ Day Statement, October 14, 2024. 
    “Native peoples have lived in the land we now call New Mexico and the United States for thousands of years. 
    “I am honored to work with the Pueblos and Tribes who call New Mexico home, and with Tribes all across Indian Country. As part of that work, I have been proud to lead legislation in the Senate to re-frame this national holiday as Indigenous Peoples’ Day.  
    “New Mexico is one of a growing number of states that already recognizes this change. And three years ago, President Biden became the first President to formally commemorate Indigenous Peoples’ Day. Re-framing this holiday is a powerful way for us to acknowledge and heal from painful history. It also inspires us to celebrate the enduring strength and resilience of Native people. 
    “Today and every day, I am committed to uplifting Tribal communities and defending Tribal sovereignty and self-determination.” 
    Background:
    Last year, Heinrich led the bicameral introduction of legislation to replace the official federal holiday recognized on the second Monday of October as Indigenous Peoples’ Day. The bill would also replace any mention of Columbus Day in all federal laws or regulations with Indigenous Peoples’ Day.    
    Heinrich’s legislation is supported by the Navajo Nation, Mescalero Apache Tribe, All Pueblo Council of Governors, National Congress of American Indians, Indigenous Peoples’ Initiative, Association on American Indian Affairs, Santa Rosa Rancheria Tachi Yokut Tribe, the Pocahontas Project, Cherokee Nation, National Council of Urban Indian Health, and Barona Band of Mission Indians. 
    The Senate legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), and Angus King (I-Maine). 
    Read the full text of the bill here.  
    More than a dozen states across the country have recognized this change, including New Mexico. In 2021, President Joe Biden became the first U.S. President to formally commemorate Indigenous Peoples’ Day.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wasserman Schultz, Salazar Sponsor Bipartisan REVOCAR Act to Defund Maduro’s Repression of Venezuelans

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23)

    “Maduro’s brutal regime refuses to honor the undeniable election results, despite clear evidence proving his loss. Rescinding these special licenses, which exclusively serve to subsidize the regime’s crony corruption, violent repression, and flagrant human rights abuses, must be part of our international effort to reject Maduro’s election theft,” said Wasserman Schultz. “If we truly intend to see through a peaceful transition of power and honor the will of the Venezuelan people, we cannot afford to indulge fossil fuel companies’ investors at the expense of democracy.”

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Reps. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), co-chair of the Congressional Venezuela Democracy Caucus, and María Elvira Salazar (FL-27), Chair of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere, introduced the bipartisan Revoke Exemptions for Venezuelan Oil to Curb Autocratic Repression Act, or REVOCAR Act, to prohibit new and existing licenses for companies to transact with Venezuela’s state oil company, which provides revenue for the Maduro regime’s crimes against humanity. U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) previously introduced a similar bill in the Senate.

    “Maduro’s brutal regime refuses to honor the undeniable election results, despite clear evidence proving his loss. Rescinding these special licenses, which exclusively serve to subsidize the regime’s crony corruption, violent repression, and flagrant human rights abuses, must be part of our international effort to reject Maduro’s election theft,” said Wasserman Schultz. “If we truly intend to see through a peaceful transition of power and honor the will of the Venezuelan people, we cannot afford to indulge fossil fuel companies’ investors at the expense of democracy.”

    “It’s long past time to cut off the flow of money that the Maduro Dictatorship uses to oppress their people,” said Salazar. “We are sending a loud and clear message that if Maduro stays, there will be no oil money for the Venezuelan regime.”

    “Despite the sweeping and clear opposition victory in the recent Venezuelan presidential election, the Maduro regime refused to release results, announced that it had won instead, and arbitrarily arrested thousands of opposition supporters,” said Durbin. “We must put an end to the outright theft of the Venezuelan voters’ overwhelming choice for a better future.  I’m pleased that Reps. Wasserman Schultz and Salazar are introducing the House bill to terminate all U.S. petroleum cooperation and related trade with Venezuela until the legitimate results of the recent election are respected. The Maduro regime clings to power using oil revenues dependent on U.S. involvement.  Under our bill, that will end, and so will Maduro’s financial strength.”

    The REVOCAR Act would prohibit U.S. persons and entities from engaging in transactions with PdVSA, Venezuela’s regime-controlled energy company, eliminating General Licenses issued by the Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) that allow certain companies to do business with the Maduro regime. These prohibitions would extend for three years or until the President certifies that a democratic transfer of power to Venezuelan president-elect Edmundo González has taken place.

    On July 28, 2024, more than 10,000,000 citizens of Venezuela voted in a presidential election in which meticulously documented and publicized data from credible election monitors clearly and convincingly showed that opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez received more than two-thirds of the votes against the regime of Nicolas Maduro. The Maduro regime has refused to respect the overwhelming choice of the people of Venezuela and subsequently arrested and abused thousands of innocent citizens of Venezuela, including children, for peaceful political participation.

    Reps. Wasserman Schultz and Salazar have partnered on recent efforts promoting democracy in Venezuela including the VOICE Act, which would place individual sanctions on anti-democratic officials in the Maduro regime, and the AFFECT Human Rights in Venezuela Act, which would direct U.S. support for international investigations and reporting on the Maduro regime’s criminal repression of the Venezuelan people.

    The full text of the bill can be found here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lankford Visits Arizona Border, Receives Briefings from Border Patrol and ICE Officials

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Oklahoma James Lankford

    OKLAHOMA CITY, OK – Senator James Lankford (R-OK) concluded a two-day trip to the US-Mexico border in Arizona last week, where he met with federal agents, toured border facilities, and received briefings on the escalating challenges of securing the southern border.

    During his visit, Lankford toured the Gwen Mikeal Village, a Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) facility that cares for unaccompanied minors who have crossed into the United States. He also received in-depth briefings at the Tucson Border Patrol headquarters and the Tucson CBP Air and Marine Operations headquarters, followed by a night tour with the Border Patrol Union. While on the tour, Lankford witnessed firsthand a gap in the border wall that is exploited by illegal border crossers. 

    The following day, Lankford toured the DeConcini port of entry, where he saw the process for the CBP One app. He then visited the Nogales Border Patrol Station and finished his visit with a briefing at the Tucson ICE facility with the Homeland Security Investigations to learn about the current state of interior enforcement. To view pictures from the trip, click here.

    “People from all over the world—including Russia and countries in Africa—are crossing our southern border illegally because they know they can get away with it,” said Lankford. “This isn’t just a border crisis; it’s a national security threat. Since the CBP One app doesn’t require photo ID verification, there’s no way to confirm the person filling out the information is who they say they are, which means we have no idea who is really coming into our country and that puts our communities at risk.”

    There also has been a surge of dangerous drugs like fentanyl and methamphetamines crossing the southern border, and Oklahoma communities are feeling the effects. Meth remains the top drug threat in the state.

    “When drug traffickers and illegal drugs slip through the cracks, families in Oklahoma suffer,” said Lankford. “Meth is responsible for more overdose deaths in our state than any other drug, and the increasing flow of it across the border is putting more lives in danger.”

    Senator Lankford has been an outspoken advocate for stronger border security measures. As a member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Lankford will continue to fight to secure the border by pushing for stronger policies and ensuring that federal agencies have the resources and support they need to effectively protect America’s borders.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján, Colleagues Commemorate Indigenous Peoples’ Day

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)

    Washington D.C.  – Today, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, commemorated Indigenous Peoples’ Day with the bicameral Indigenous Peoples’ Day Act alongside Representatives Norma Torres (CA-35), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Sharice Davids (KS-03), Suzan DelBene (WA-01), and Senator Martin Heinrich (D-NM). The legislation would designate Indigenous Peoples’ Day as a legal public holiday and replace the term ‘‘Columbus Day’’ with the term ‘‘Indigenous Peoples’ Day.’’ 

    “Recognizing Indigenous Peoples’ Day is an essential step toward honoring the accomplishments and strength of Tribal Nations across New Mexico and the country,” said Senator Luján, a member of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs. “I’m proud to lead this effort to officially designate Indigenous Peoples’ Day and am hopeful that Congress will follow in New Mexico’s footsteps and recognize the holiday federally. Throughout history, Native people have played a vital role in our society and shaping our nation’s history – from serving in the military, educating our children, to boosting our economy – and it is well past time to celebrate their contributions. I look forward to working with my colleagues to pass this bill and honor all the triumphs of our Tribal communities.” 

    “It has been a year since the Indigenous Peoples’ Day Act was reintroduced, and our nation needs to recognize and work towards addressing the deep-seated historical injustices and suffering experienced by the natives across the country,” said Congresswoman Norma Torres. “The Indigenous Peoples’ Day Act seeks to honor the enduring presence of the tribes that inhabited the Americas long before the arrival of Western explorers. By establishing Indigenous Peoples’ Day as a federal holiday, we can take a meaningful step towards acknowledging the complexities of our nation’s history and celebrating the rich traditions and culture of all Indigenous communities who are an integral part of the United States history. It is time for my colleagues in the House and Senate to unite in passing this critical legislation, ensuring that we pay tribute to the cultures and significant contributions of Indigenous peoples to our nation.”

    “On Indigenous Peoples’ Day we recognize the immense contributions Indigenous communities have made throughout our country’s history and before its founding,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “We also must acknowledge the many injustices that continue to affect Indigenous communities today. I’m pleased to join my colleagues in this important effort to establish Indigenous Peoples’ Day as a federal holiday.”

    “Indigenous People’s Day is not only a time to acknowledge the centuries of discrimination that Native peoples have experienced, but an opportunity to celebrate how much Indigenous peoples’ rich cultures have contributed to our nation’s history,” said Representative Sharice L. Davids. “As one of the first Native American women elected to Congress and a proud member of the Ho-Chunk Nation, I am proud to join my colleagues in calling for the national celebration of Indigenous Peoples’ Day.”

    “Indigenous Peoples’ Day is an opportunity for us to unite in celebration of the rich tapestry of tribal nations, their diverse cultures, and the important contributions they have made to our communities,” said Congresswoman Suzan DelBene. “Cementing this observance also acknowledges the current and historical injustices Indigenous communities face and renews our commitment to preserving their rights as we work toward a more inclusive and equitable society.”

    “As President of the Navajo Nation, I am proud to support Congresswoman Torre’s and Senator Heinrich’s efforts to pass the Indigenous Peoples’ Day Act. Indigenous Peoples’ Day is an opportunity for all of us to come together to honor the rich histories, cultures and contributions of Indigenous communities across the country. It is a day to reflect on the resilience of our people, and to promote understanding and respect for our heritage. By recognizing Indigenous Peoples’ Day, we celebrate our past and pave the way for a future built on mutual respect and collaboration. This is a day for education, reflection and unity as we work toward healing and progress.” – Dr. Buu Nygren, President of the Navajo Nation

    Full Indigenous Peoples’ Day Act Bill

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ERO Boston arrests Dominican national convicted of drug charges in Massachusetts

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    BOSTON — Enforcement and Removal Operations Boston apprehended an unlawfully present 33-year-old Dominican national charged with assault and battery on a household member, destruction of property, indecent exposure, carjacking, two counts of trafficking a controlled substance, and assault and battery with a dangerous weapon. Officers with ERO Boston arrested Luis Esmeraldo Rodriguez Aug. 12 in Roxbury. The U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts arraigned Rodriguez Sept. 16 for unlawfully reentering the United States after having been previously removed.

    “Not only has Luis Esmeraldo Rodriguez has displayed a complete disregard for U.S. immigration laws — he also attempted to use our Massachusetts neighborhoods to peddle poison to our residents,” said ERO Boston acting Field Office Director Patricia H. Hyde. “Now he has been charged with some much more severe offenses and clearly poses a threat to our community. ERO Boston will continue to prioritize the safety of our public by aggressively apprehending and removing egregious noncitizen offenders from New England.”

    U.S. Border Patrol apprehended Rodriguez Nov. 23, 2014, after he unlawfully entered the United States near Laredo, Texas, without inspection, admission or parole by a U.S. immigration official.

    On Jan. 16, 2015, ERO Batavia served Rodriguez with a notice to appear before a Department of Justice immigration judge.

    A Department of Justice immigration judge in Batavia, New York, granted Rodriguez an immigration bond Feb.18, 2015.

    On May 12, 2015, a Department of Justice immigration judge in Batavia ordered Rodriguez removed from the United States to the Dominican Republic.

    The U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts arraigned Rodriguez on a charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute fentanyl and an additional charge of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. The court convicted Rodriguez of those charges Feb. 27, 2019, and sentenced him to 30 months in prison.

    ERO Philadelphia arrested Rodriguez Feb. 15, 2020, after his release from state prison and removed him from the United States to the Dominican Republic Feb. 18, 2024.

    Rodriguez unlawfully reentered the United States on an unknown date, at an unknown location, without inspection, admission or parole by a U.S. immigration official.

    The Roxbury District Court arraigned Rodriguez June 10 on charges of assault and battery of a household member, destruction of property, indecent exposure, carjacking, two counts of trafficking a controlled substance, and assault and battery with a dangerous weapon.

    Later that day, ERO lodged an immigration detainer against Rodriguez with the Suffolk County House of Corrections in Boston.

    Officers with ERO Boston arrested Rodriguez Aug. 12 at the Roxbury District Court and served him with a notice of intent/decision to reinstate a prior removal order.

    The U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts arraigned Rodriguez Sept. 16 on a charge of unlawful reentry into the United States after removal.

    As part of its mission to identify and arrest removable noncitizens, ERO lodges immigration detainers against noncitizens who have been arrested for criminal activity and taken into custody by state or local law enforcement. An immigration detainer is a request from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to state or local law enforcement agencies to notify ICE as early as possible before a removable noncitizen is released from their custody. Detainers request that state or local law enforcement agencies maintain custody of the noncitizen for a period not to exceed 48 hours beyond the time the individual would otherwise be released, allowing ERO to assume custody for removal purposes in accordance with federal law.

    Detainers are critical public safety tools because they focus enforcement resources on removable noncitizens who have been arrested for criminal activity. Detainers increase the safety of all parties involved — ERO personnel, law enforcement officials, the removable noncitizens and the public — by allowing an arrest to be made in a secure and controlled custodial setting as opposed to at-large within the community. Since detainers result in the direct transfer of a noncitizen from state or local custody to ERO custody, they also minimize the potential that an individual will reoffend. Additionally, detainers conserve scarce government resources by allowing ERO to take criminal noncitizens into custody directly rather than expending resources locating these individuals at-large.

    ERO conducts removals of individuals without a lawful basis to remain in the United States, including at the order of immigration judges with the Justice Department’s Executive Office for Immigration Review. The Executive Office for Immigration Review is a separate entity from the Department of Homeland Security and ICE. Immigration judges in these courts make decisions based on the merits of each individual case, determining if a noncitizen is subject to a final order of removal or eligible for certain forms of relief from removal.

    As one of ICE’s three operational directorates, ERO is the principal federal law enforcement authority in charge of domestic immigration enforcement. ERO’s mission is to protect the homeland through the arrest and removal of those who undermine the safety of U.S. communities and the integrity of U.S. immigration laws, and its primary areas of focus are interior enforcement operations, management of the agency’s detained and non-detained populations, and repatriation of noncitizens who have received final orders of removal. ERO’s workforce consists of more than 7,700 law enforcement and non-law enforcement support personnel across 25 domestic field offices and 208 locations nationwide, 30 overseas postings, and multiple temporary duty travel assignments along the border.

    Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.

    Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety in our New England communities on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @EROBoston.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI—Hagerty Joins Kudlow to Discuss Border Patrol Union Endorsing Trump, Harris’s Failed Border Policy

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Tennessee Bill Hagerty

    NEW YORK CITY – United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN), a member of the Senate Appropriations, Banking, and Foreign Relations Committees, yesterday joined Kudlow on Fox Business to discuss the National Border Patrol Council endorsing President Trump, Kamala Harris and Chuck Schumer’s deceptive “border bill,” illegal migrant taxpayer-funded flights, apartment complexes being overrun by Venezuelan gangs, and a preview of a second Trump Administration in the Senate.

    *Click the photo above or here to watch*

    Partial Transcript

    Hagerty on the National Border Patrol Council endorsing President Donald Trump: “Absolutely, they did. And the reason they did, is they know that he means what he says. This fake border bill that Kamala Harris and Chuck Schumer put forward was simply a ruse. It was an opportunity for them to actually put more resources into more people into this country more [easily]. That’s what it was looking to do […] It’s high time that we did [secure the border], and President Trump is the only one that can get it done.”

    Hagerty on the taxpayer-funded illegal migrant flights: “It doesn’t make any sense, and talking about the ones that we fly in here: I brought this to the floor of the Senate, and every single Democrat voted to continue using taxpayer dollars to support flights from places like Haiti, Cuba, Nicaragua, Venezuela, directly into our country, bypassing the borders and bringing illegal migrants into our country, into the cities of their choice. Every single Democrat voted to continue using taxpayer funds to do this. Last year, 320,000 people came in this way. This year, right here, it’s over half a million so far.”

    Hagerty on apartment complexes being run by illegal Venezuelan gangs: “The partisan media are so out of touch, Larry. That she [ABC’s Martha Raddatz] would even undertake that line of questioning with JD [Vance] just shows how out of touch they are, and they’re so focused on debunking talking points and “disinformation.” They’re not focused on the real problems here right now […] It shouldn’t be a single apartment complex [taken over] […] I can’t imagine that she thinks this would be acceptable if it were her apartment complex that had been taken over by Venezuelan gangs.”

    Hagerty on a Republican Senate majority pushing a second Trump Agenda: “I’ve discussed with the number of people that are running for Senate leadership that the most important criteria from my perspective is their ability to get along with Donald Trump and lock arms in this agenda to make certain that the work that’s going to take place with Executive Orders and the Executive Branch side is paired up. And I hope we’ll be in a position to do reconciliation […] There are a number of people that have already announced that they’re going to run: [John] Thune, [John] Cornyn. You’ve got Rick Scott as well who has already announced, and there may be others. But I think one of the key criteria again, is going to be making certain that we take the greatest advantage of this first 100 days, first 200 days, to really make it matter. And on the Senate side, getting appointments through, getting our nominees appointed right away[…] The tax package is going to be right on the agenda as you know, and you worked so hard on this before. If you think about what President Trump was able to accomplish back in 2017 with the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and with the deregulatory thrust that he undertook, we’re going to come back, and I hope see it on steroids this time and see our economy, you know, grow even stronger. Grow even better.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Readout of Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III’s Calls With Mexico’s Secretary of National Defense General Ricardo Trevilla Trejo and Secretary of the Navy Admiral Raymundo Morales Ángeles

    Source: United States Department of Defense

    Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder provided the following readout:

    On October 11, in two separate calls, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III spoke with his Mexican counterparts, the Secretary of National Defense General Ricardo Trevilla Trejo and the Secretary of the Navy Admiral Raymundo Morales Ángeles.  Secretary Austin relayed his congratulations to both counterparts on their recent appointments. The Secretary and his counterparts discussed the importance of the U.S.-Mexico defense relationship to security in the region along with the trilateral partnership with Canada. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DOD Releases Report on Defense Spending by State in Fiscal Year 2023

    Source: United States Department of Defense

    Today, the Department of Defense’s Office of Local Defense Community Cooperation released its Fiscal Year 2023 Defense Spending by State report to help states and communities better understand how Defense procurement, personnel, and grant spending impact their economies.  

    The report’s graphs, maps, and tables present a range of findings, such as total spending figures, categories of contracted goods and services, major defense vendors, numbers and types of defense personnel, and grants awarded by the Department of Defense (DOD).  This snapshot provides public and private leaders with a starting place to assess how defense investments across installations, communities, and the private sector can be optimized by supporting regional innovation, industrial capability and capacity, supply chain resilience, and cultivating a skilled workforce.  

    “Our National Defense Industrial Strategy makes clear that a robust and resilient industrial base provides the enduring foundation for military advantage,” said Dr. William LaPlante, Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment. “Businesses small and large across America are the heart of our industrial might, and this report is a tremendous resource that our state and local partners can use to better understand defense spending in their areas and strengthen supply chains.”

    Defense spending – to include contract obligations, payroll spending, and grants in the 50 states and the District of Columbia – rose by $50.5 billion in Fiscal Year 2023 from the prior fiscal year.  This is the result of an 8.9 percent increase in DoD contract obligations, a 5.0 percent increase in payroll spending, and a 7.5 percent increase in grant spending.

    DoD contract obligations, payroll spending, and grant awards in the 50 states and the District of Columbia totaled $609.2 billion, which is 2.2 percent of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). If the total spending were divided across every U.S. resident, it would amount to $1,819 per U.S. citizen.  Of those funds, $431.4 billion (71 percent) were obligated through contracts for products and services, $167.4 billion (27 percent) paid the salaries of DoD personnel, and $10.4 billion (2 percent) were awarded as grants.

    Texas, Virginia, and California remain as the top recipients for overall defense spending in Fiscal Year 2023, with Texas moving to the number one spot, seeing an $8.9 billion increase over Fiscal Year 2022.  However, Virginia, Hawaii, and Connecticut ranked highest when considering defense spending impacts on their respective state GDPs.

    The top ten states for total Defense spending in Fiscal Year 2023 were:

    Rank State Defense Spending (billions)
    1 Texas $71.6
    2 Virginia $68.5
    3 California $60.8
    4 Florida $32.2
    5 Maryland $27.8
    6 Connecticut $25.3
    7 Pennsylvania $21.8
    8 Arizona $17.0
    9 Massachusetts $16.8
    10 Washington $15.5

    The top ten recipients of Defense contracts in Fiscal Year 2023 were:

    Rank Company Defense Spending (billions)
    1 Lockheed Martin $61.4
    2 RTX Corporation $24.1
    3 General Dynamics $22.9
    4 Boeing $20.1
    5 Northrup Grumman $16.3
    6 Huntington Ingalls $10.5
    7 Humana $7.8
    8 L3Harris Technologies $7.5
    9 BAE Systems $7
    10 Cencora $4.4

    Nine of the ten companies were on this list in Fiscal Year 2022. RTX Corporation was previously Raytheon Technologies. Cencora was formerly known as AmerisourceBergen but was not previously on the top ten list. 

    According to Patrick O’Brien, the Director of the Office of Local Defense Community Cooperation, “This report is an enabler for the Department’s state and local partners to better understand and develop civilian innovation and modernization initiatives for the continued responsiveness of the defense industrial base and supply chains to our national security needs while also ensuring local infrastructure and services can sustain our local installations and the communities that host them and our military families.” 

    This analysis primarily entailed an examination of DoD funded prime- and sub-award contract data, grant awards, and defense personnel and payroll figures drawn from an array of sources, including DoD’s Defense Manpower Data Center and USAspending.gov, which is managed by the U.S. Department of the Treasury. This spending includes support for the National Guard as well as Research, Development and Evaluation activities.

    The FY23 report, as well as previous years’ reports, can be found on the OLDCC website at https://oldcc.gov/dsbs-fy2023  

    A supplemental analysis report of DoD contract, personnel, and grant spending in American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Virgin Islands of the United States will be available later this year.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: FDFA State Secretary Alexandre Fasel holds political consultations with Brazil

    Source: Switzerland – Federal Administration in English

    Bern, 15.10.2024 – Alexandre Fasel, the state secretary of the FDFA, met with the deputy foreign minister of Brazil, Maria Laura da Rocha, in Brasilia. The political consultations centred on bilateral relations, issues relating to economic and security policy, respect for human rights and cooperation to protect the environment.

    Since 2008, Switzerland and Brazil have held annual political consultations to discuss bilateral and multilateral matters of the day. At the 11th edition of these consultations on 15 October 2024, Mr Fasel and Ms Da Rocha highlighted the close relations between their two countries, which are put into effect through nine regular dialogues in areas ranging from business, science, and research to human rights.

    Brazil is Switzerland’s biggest trading partner in Latin America, with a total volume of approximately CHF 4.4 billion in 2023. This corresponds to around a quarter of Switzerland’s total trade with all Latin American countries. Economic issues were thus at the centre of the discussions in Brasilia. In addition to the intensification of bilateral trade and investment, a particular focus was placed on the negotiations between the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), of which Switzerland is a member, and Mercosur, a single market of around 270 million inhabitants comprising the four South American states of Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay. The negotiations between EFTA and Mercosur were largely concluded in 2019 and are now in the final phase. Mr Fasel and Ms Da Rocha expressed their hope that the free trade agreement can be signed soon.

    The political consultations also involved a discussion on various crises and conflicts, including regional security in general and in particular the situation in Venezuela, and the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East. Both interlocutors underscored the importance of contributing to peace and security through dialogue and mediation. In this context, Mr Fasel emphasised that in Switzerland’s view all initiatives for peace in Ukraine that are based on international law and the UN Charter should be considered. He also informed Ms Da Rocha about Switzerland’s work during its term on the UN Security Council, which will come to an end in December 2024.

    Measures to boost cooperation to protect the environment and promote sustainability were also on the agenda of the Brasilia meeting. Switzerland supports several initiatives to protect the Amazon rainforest and in areas such as decarbonisation, sustainable infrastructure and cleantech in Brazil. These projects are coordinated as part of the run-up to the COP 30 climate conference (‘the Road to Belém’), which will take place in Belém in 2025 – the gateway city to the Amazon.

    During his visit to Brazil, Mr Fasel also held talks with representatives from the political and scientific communities in Brasilia and São Paulo. In Brasilia, he also took part in an event to mark 75 years of the Geneva Conventions and Switzerland’s presidency of the UN Security Council in October 2024.

    Brazil is a priority country in the Federal Council’s Americas Strategy 2022–25: since 2023, seven meetings have taken place between members of the Federal Council and their Brazilian counterparts, and two at presidential level.

    Address for enquiries

    FDFA Communication
    Federal Palace West Wing
    CH-3003 Bern, Switzerland
    Tel. Press service: +41 58 460 55 55
    E-mail: kommunikation@eda.admin.ch
    Twitter: @SwissMFA

    Publisher

    Federal Department of Foreign Affairs
    https://www.eda.admin.ch/eda/en/home.html

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CFTC Charges Several People and Companies in a $280 Million Ponzi Scheme

    Source: US Commodity Futures Trading Commission

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Commodity Futures Trading Commission today announced it filed a civil enforcement action in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida against:

    • Traders Domain FX LTD. d/b/a The Traders Domain, a St. Vincent and the Grenadines company with principal operations in Canada, and its two co-founders, Fredirick Teddy Joseph Safranko, a/k/a Ted Safranko, of Ontario or British Columbia, Canada, and David William Negus-Romvari of Ontario, Canada and Mexico
    • Ares Global Ltd. d/b/a Trubluefx, a Saint Lucia company
    • Algo Capital LLC, a Florida company
    • Algo FX Capital Advisor LLC n/k/a Quant5 Advisor LLC., a Delaware company with principal operations in Medley, Florida, and four of their officers and agents including Robert Collazo Jr. of Miami Lakes, Florida, Juan Jose Herman a/k/a/ JJ Herman of Miami, John Fortini of North Miami, Florida, and Stephen Likos of Sunny Isles Beach, Florida
    • Michael Shannon Sims of Sunny Isles Beach, Florida
    • Holton Buggs Jr., of Houston
    • Centurion Capital Group Inc., a Florida company, and three of its officers and agents including Alejandro Santiestaban a/k/a Alex Santi, Gabriel Beltran, both of Hialeah, Florida, and Archie Rice of Fulshear, Texas 

    The complaint alleges that, among other things, the defendants individually, and at times working in conjunction, made material fraudulent representations to their customers and misappropriated customer funds. In sum, more than 2,000 customers deposited no less than $283 million in connection with the alleged fraud.

    The CFTC seeks disgorgement of ill-gotten gains, civil monetary penalties, restitution, trading and registration bans, and a permanent injunction against further violations of the Commodity Exchange Act and CFTC regulations.

    On Oct. 3, Federal District Court Judge Roy K. Altman entered a statutory restraining order against the defendants, freezing their assets, and giving the CFTC immediate access to their books and records. The court scheduled a preliminary injunction hearing for Oct. 29.

    Case Background

    The complaint alleges from at least November 2019 through the present, TD, Safranko, and Negus-Romvari orchestrated a multi-layered scheme to solicit funds for trading leveraged or margined retail commodity transactions, specifically gold-to-U.S. dollar pairs (XAU/USD), as well as assorted other commodities, through pooled and individual accounts. 

    The complaint states TD, Safranko, and Negus-Romvari made fraudulent and material oral and written misrepresentations and omissions, and misappropriated customer funds. The complaint alleges TD and Safranko falsified trading records and TD’s successor, Trubluefx, further misappropriated customer funds by failing to refund the money despite repeated attempts by thousands of customers to access and/or liquidate their accounts.

    According to the complaint, TD, Safranko, and Negus-Romvari also used other individuals and entities (sponsors) on TD’s behalf, with each sponsor acting like a spoke extending from the TD hub. 

    The sponsors Algo Capital and Algo FX Capital Advisor n/k/a Quant5, and their agents Collazo, Herman, Fortini, and Likos; Sims; Buggs; and Centurion, and its agents Santi, Beltran, and Rice, also fraudulently solicited customers and misappropriated funds. The sponsors actively downplayed red flags and continued to solicit customers, helping to create the false impression customers were participating in legitimate trading even as the scheme was on the brink of collapse.

    In the fall of 2022, customers began to experience extreme withdrawal delays and/or were unable to withdraw their funds. According to the complaint, TD, Safranko, and Negus-Romvari, and the sponsor defendants provided numerous, conflicting excuses for the delays — falsely assuring customers their funds were safe, and withdrawals would be processed. All while the sponsor defendants continued to solicit funds from new and existing customers to be traded in the TD Pool, allowing the defendants to continue their fraudulent scheme for more than six months and bilk customers out of millions of additional dollars.

    The CFTC appreciates the assistance of the National Futures Association, Ontario Securities Commission, the Financial Services Authority Saint Vincent & The Grenadines, Finantsinspektsioon (Estonian Financial Supervision and Resolution Authority), and Vanuatu Financial Services Commission. 

    The Division of Enforcement staff responsible for this matter are Alison B. Wilson, Sean Hennessy, Sarah Wastler, Kelly Folks, Maura Viehmeyer, Michelle Bougas, Erica Bodin, Stephanie Cooper, and Rick Glaser. Jeremy Christianson and Christopher Beatty from the CFTC’s Office of Data and Technology also assisted.

    CFTC’s Commodity Pool Fraud Advisory

    The CFTC has issued several customer protection Fraud Advisories and Articles, including the Commodity Pool Fraud Advisory, which provides information about a type of fraud involving individuals and firms, often unregistered, offering investments in commodity pools. The CFTC also urges the public to verify a company’s registration at NFA BASIC before investing funds. If an entity is unregistered, a customer should be wary of providing funds to that entity.

    Suspicious activities or information, such as possible violations of commodity trading laws, should be reported to the Division of Enforcement via a toll-free hotline 866-FON-CFTC (866-366-2382) or file a tip or complaint online or contact the CFTC Whistleblower Office. Whistleblowers are eligible to receive between 10 and 30 percent of the monetary sanctions collected, paid from the CFTC Customer Protection Fund financed through monetary sanctions paid to the CFTC by violators of the CEA.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Experts of the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women Praise Chile’s Laws on Violence against Women, Ask about Measures to Prevent Trafficking of Children and Sexual Abuse of Girls

    Source: United Nations – Geneva

    The Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women today considered the eighth periodic report of Chile, with Committee Experts praising the State’s laws on violence against women and femicide, and raising questions about measures to prevent trafficking of children and sexual abuse of girls.

    One Committee Expert said Chile had impressive laws on violence against women and femicide.  What was the reparation regime for femicide?

    A Committee Expert said trafficking remained a problem in Chile.  There were around 20,000 illegal adoptions; the stealing of children was reportedly a lucrative business for criminal groups.  What measures were in place to support women and children who were at risk of trafficking?

    Another Expert said the Committee was concerned by the high rates of teenage pregnancy and sexual abuse of teenage girls.  What was being done to prevent early pregnancies, sexual abuse of girls, and delays in processing of abortion requests?

    Introducing the report, Antonia Orellana Guarello, Minister of Women and Gender Equity of Chile and head of the delegation, said an emblematic advance in the fight against violence in Chile was the enactment this June of the comprehensive law against gender violence. In the last two years, law reform had established a comprehensive protection and reparation regime for victims of femicide. National violence against women programmes had been redesigned to offer care to a wider range of victims.

    Ms. Orellana Guarello said the Government had developed the National Action Plan against Trafficking in Persons 2023-2026, focusing on prevention, protection of victims, prosecution of crimes, intersectoral coordination, and international cooperation.  This plan had made it possible to double the State’s capacity to care for adult victims.

    The delegation added that the State had a new procedure for assessing international adoptions and was supporting investigations into kidnapping of children. One individual who had been kidnapped had been identified and reunited with their family.  The State party was working to establish a genetic database to help reunite families and victims.

    Chile had seen a downward trend in teenage pregnancies since 2016, the delegation noted, influenced by the free distribution of contraception.  The State party was developing legislation that decriminalised abortion.  Around 70 per cent of girls under 14 who requested abortions did so on the grounds of rape.  An early referrals programme had been developed to speed up their access to abortions.

    In closing remarks, Ms. Orellana Guarello said Chile was committed to implementing the rights of women in all their diversity.  The State party would work to collect disaggregated data on women, achieve gender parity at all levels, increase access to abortion, promote the rights of older women and reform the pension system, and improve the situation of women deprived of liberty.

    Ana Peláez Narváez, Committee Chair, in concluding remarks, said that the dialogue had helped the Committee to better understand the situation of women and girls in the State party.  It would develop recommendations based on the dialogue to strengthen the implementation of the Convention for the benefit of all women and girls in Chile.

    The delegation of Chile consisted of representatives from the Supreme Court; Ministry of Justice and Human Rights; National Migration Service; Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Ministry of Women and Gender Equity; Ministry of the Interior and Public Security; Public Prosecutor’s Office; Gendarmerie; Public Criminal Defender’s Office; Cabinet of the Minister of Social Development and Family; and the Permanent Mission of Chile to the United Nations Office at Geneva.

    The Committee will issue the concluding observations on the report of Chile at the end of its eighty-ninth session on 25 October.  All documents relating to the Committee’s work, including reports submitted by States parties, can be found on the session’s webpage.  Meeting summary releases can be found here.  The webcast of the Committee’s public meetings can be accessed via the UN Web TV webpage.

    The Committee will next meet in public at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, 16 October to consider the tenth periodic report of Canada (CEDAW/C/CAN/10).

    Report

    The Committee has before it the eighth periodic report of Chile (CEDAW/C/CHL/8).

    Presentation of Report

    ANTONIA ORELLANA GUARELLO, Minister of Women and Gender Equity of Chile and head of the delegation, said that since the last dialogue, Chile had experienced social protests, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the emergence of “anti-rights” groups.  Despite these challenges, the State had made progress in institutional, legal and administrative mechanisms to ensure the rights of women.  The National Equality Plan, updated in 2023, was the roadmap for equality policies in Chile. Minority groups had participated in the construction and monitoring of the plan.  In 2023 and 2024, six billion pesos were allocated to projects that directly benefited the diversity of women in different State institutions.

    An emblematic advance in the fight against violence was the enactment this June of the comprehensive law against gender violence, which established measures to punish and eradicate gender-based violence.  It created a judicial supervision mechanism, recognised children and adolescents as victims, and established an integrated data system on cases of gender violence. In the last two years, law reform had improved procedural guarantees and protected the rights of victims of sexual crimes; advanced the prevention, investigation and punishment of workplace sexual harassment; and established a comprehensive protection and reparation regime for victims of femicide, including a pension for sons and daughters, which until August 2024 has benefited 126 children and adolescents. National violence against women programmes had been redesigned to offer care to a wider range of victims.  The budget allocated to the prevention of violence against women had been increased by 22 per cent between 2021 and 2024.

    In 2022, a law prohibiting child marriage was enacted.  Thanks to this law, in the last two years there were no marriages with spouses under 18 years of age.  The Government had also developed the National Action Plan against Trafficking in Persons 2023-2026, focusing on prevention, protection of victims, prosecution of crimes, intersectoral coordination, and international cooperation. This plan had made it possible to double the State’s capacity to care for adult victims.  As of May 2024, humanitarian visas were issued to 21 women victims.  Progress had also been made with respect to the payment of child support through the creation of the National Registry of Alimony Debtors and the effective payment law. This had allowed the payment of more than 333 million United States dollars for alimony, benefiting more than 50,000 families as of May 2024.

    Chile was processing the bill that modified the Labour Code to promote equal pay between men and women, seeking to address the persistent gender wage gap, which stood at 23.3 per cent.  The Buenos Aires Commitment recognised the right to care and be cared for.  The Government had introduced a bill to establish a national policy on care to guarantee access to care in conditions of dignity.  Resources for care systems would be increased by 40 per cent by 2025, with the goal of serving 75,000 people with severe dependency.

    The More Women Scientists Programme had provided posts to women in science, technology, engineering and maths programmes at the university level.  The number of women selected for such programmes had since increased by 16.8 per cent.  The Government had implemented an inspection manual for the voluntary interruption of pregnancy law, which gave tools to local authorities for the supervision of health facilities.  It had also reduced the prices of oral, vaginal and long-acting contraception.

    The percentage of women participating in politics had increased in recent decades.  Chile was ranked sixth worldwide in high-level representation of women, with 58.3 per cent of members of the Cabinet of Ministers being women.  The Government was also promoting projects such as gender quotas in the elections of regional governors and councillors.  In the last two years, spaces had been created for women to participate in the evaluation and transformation of public policy, such as the Citizen Dialogues for the Care System, which had 12,614 participants, of which 80.4 per cent were women.  Dialogues were also held for rural women and for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex community, on sexual and reproductive rights and pension reform.

    In the last two years, 119 indigenous language and culture educators were recruited.  The Good Living Plan promoted the participation of Mapuche and rural women in political and social decisions through territorial dialogues.  The Government had also doubled the quota for hiring people with disabilities in companies and public institutions with 100 or more workers.  The National Policy on Migration and Foreigners provided comprehensive care for foreign women victims of domestic and gender-based violence.  Since 2023, the gender identity accompaniment programme had been implemented, serving more than 2,500 transgender and gender non-conforming children and adolescents.  This year, the Protocol for the Protection of Human Rights Defenders was approved, reaffirming the commitment of the State to protect women human rights defenders.  The Protocol on the Treatment of Pregnant Women in Detention sought to guarantee respect for and exercise of these women’s rights.  From 2022 to May of this year, a total of 321 pregnant women had benefited from this law.

    The Committee’s recommendations would allow the State to make progress in complying with its international commitments and to guarantee respect for human rights.

    LORETO CARVAJAL, Senator of the Republic, said she was a member of a group of parliamentarians that promoted the creation of the Commission on Women and Gender Equity, a space to debate policies against discrimination and violence against women. The law on labour conciliation enshrined the right to remote work for all workers who had children under 14 years of age in their care.  Another law prohibited sexual and workplace violence and harassment at work.  The National Congress had also established its first breastfeeding room, and the Senate had installed 24 kits with menstrual hygiene products in its bathrooms.  The Work-Life Balance Protocol supported women with family and care responsibilities. 

    Chile also faced several challenges.  The revision of the civil partnership regime was still pending, as was a bill to strengthen the anti-discrimination law.  It was essential that resources were appropriately allocated to initiatives that addressed gender-based violence and promoted women’s economic empowerment.  There also needed to be increased cooperation between the legislative branch, the executive and civil society.  The delegation would faithfully reflect on both the State’s progress and the challenges remaining regarding the implementation of the Convention.

    ANDREA MUÑOZ SÁNCHEZ, Minister of the Supreme Court of Chile, said Chile’s understanding of the need to increase women’s access to justice had improved over the reporting period, and legal instruments and rulings reflected this.  The Supreme Court of Justice had a technical secretariat on gender equality and a gender equality policy.  There had been rulings regarding cases of violence against women that dealt with abandonment and recognition of non-typical cases of violence, including the use of legitimate use of self-defence by women.  There had also been rulings on the rights of women deprived of liberty and rulings recognising non-binary gender, and alternatives to detention had been issued for pregnant women.  The judiciary had also implemented many measures to eradicate sexual harassment in the workplace.

    Statement by the National Human Rights Institute

    CONSUELO CONTRERAS LARGO, National Director, National Human Rights Institute of Chile, said Chile’s statistics on violence against women were not disaggregated based on ethnicity, location, age, disability, sexual orientation and migrant status; this needed to be done.  It was worrying that amendments to the conjugal partnership law and the anti-discrimination law had not progressed.  The gap in representation between men and women continued to be wide, especially in mayoral offices and in the Senate, where women made up only 17 per cent and 24 per cent of representatives, respectively.  There was no gender quota in municipal elections, and for parliamentary elections, the quota would be in force only until 2029. 

    Difficulties in reporting violence and accessing care for minority women were concerning. There was a low number of personnel responsible for investigating trafficking in persons in the investigative police.  It was also worrying that only 15 universities offered training in gender violence, women’s rights, and gender perspective, and there was no discussion in Congress about comprehensive sex education in the school curriculum. 

    Gaps in wages and employability of men and women remained, while unemployment rates continued to be higher in women than in men.  The Institute was also concerned about barriers that hindered the provision of access to voluntary termination of pregnancy, including training and conscientious objection, and about the situation of pregnant women and women with children in prisons and the lack of progress on the bill prohibiting pretrial detention for such women.  The Institute was concerned about the lack of cultural relevance of policies for the prevention of violence against indigenous women.

    Questions by a Committee Expert

    MARION BETHEL, Committee Expert and Rapporteur for Chile, said that the Committee welcomed the efforts by the State party to disseminate the Convention and the ratification of the Optional Protocol in 2020.  Capacity-building efforts had reached over 46,000 public servants.  Had the State party established a permanent accountability mechanism regarding the Convention?  Was the Convention promoted in rural areas and had it been translated into indigenous languages? 

    The recent reform of the Constitution was a unique opportunity to advance gender equality and incorporate comprehensive protections for women’s rights.  However, this process had faced challenges.  What steps had been taken to anchor women’s rights in the Constitution? The Committee was concerned about discrimination targeting indigenous women and women of African descent.  What steps had been taken to amend the law on discrimination in line with the Convention?  How many cases had been tried under the law and what reparation had been provided to minority women?  What steps had been taken to address the law’s inadequacies?

    The availability of legal assistance for minority women remained insufficient.  How was the State party addressing this?  What training was being provided on gender equality and support for women for members of the judiciary?  Did training provided for the police and prison service improve access to justice for indigenous women, and how was gender mainstreaming being incorporated in the judiciary?

    Ms. Bethel welcomed that the Convention had been invoked in court rulings.  The State party needed to collect disaggregated data to inform public policy on gender.  What had been the impact of the work of the Intersectoral Working Group on the Rights of Indigenous Women?

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said Chile was committed to addressing gaps in monitoring the implementation of the Convention. The State party was making use of the “SEMORE” system, which collected data on the implementation of human rights treaties.  A mechanism had opened that allowed civil society to monitor the implementation of the Convention and a gender budgeting system would soon be implemented.

    More than 33,000 public servants had received training on gender equality.  The State was collaborating with the local office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights to strengthen training on the Convention for public officials.  Between 2022 and 2024, around 7,500 members of the judiciary took courses on gender issues and more than 900 members of the investigative police had also received such training.  From this year, all criminal and family judges were required to undergo mandatory training on violence against women, and prosecutors also underwent training on the Convention.

    The judiciary provided defence for all individuals.  There were specialised defenders for indigenous women and intercultural communicators who supported these women.  A bill to reform the Anti-Discrimination Act addressed shortcomings in the legislation and the need to compensate victims; this bill had been rejected, but work was underway to reform it so that it could be passed.

    The Government was working to establish institutions, roadmaps and training programmes to promote the rights of indigenous women.  The judiciary had a handbook of good practices related to gender, and a repository of judgements related to gender had been published.  More than 11,000 judgements had referenced the Convention, including 8,000 judgements by family courts.

    The Sub-Commission on Gender Statistics had established a standard on statistics on gender identity.  Upcoming surveys on gender-based violence would cover rural areas.  The new national census would include questions on gender identity, ethnicity and other characteristics.

    Questions by Committee Experts 

    A Committee Expert congratulated the State party on the creation of the Ministry for Women and Gender Equity. What percentage of the national budget had been devoted to gender institutions in the last three years? How did the State party ensure compliance by public officials with the Convention?  What was the mandate of the National Service for Women and Gender Equity? How was the Women’s Ministry empowered to influence other ministries, institutions and the media?

    The fourth national action plan on equality between men and women was commendable.  What budget had been attached to the plan and what achievements had it made?  Were issues concerning disadvantaged women integrated into national priorities? What measures were in place to monitor the implementation of the plan?

    MARION BETHEL, Committee Expert and Rapporteur for Chile, commended the State party for its use of temporary special measures in promoting the representation of women in political bodies.  There was an absence of temporary special measures to promote the rights of disadvantaged women in other areas, however.  What groups of women had been targeted by temporary special measures and what steps had been taken to guarantee women’s rights in the economic recovery plan?  How were temporary special measures being used to address gender stereotypes and promote women’s access to employment?

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said the National Service for Women and Gender Equity promoted gender equality and women’s empowerment in various areas.  The budget for the Service had been increased in recent years, and its programme to combat violence had been strengthened.  Its activities reached more than 150,000 women, preventing violence and promoting women’s political participation.

    Almost 46,000 members of the police service had received training on human rights and gender, including over 500 directors of the police force.  The share of women applying for posts within the police had increased to 40 per cent. 

    The Women’s Ministry had participated in drafting the post-pandemic economic recovery plan in 2022, incorporating gender perspectives into the plan.  The rate of female integration in the workforce had increased by two per cent since the implementation of the plan.  Subsidies were provided to employed women to access childcare, and structures providing care for the elderly had been strengthened to alleviate women’s care burden.  The childcare system had been reformed to increase access for marginalised women.

    The labour inclusion law had helped to double the number of women with disabilities who had access to the labour market.  There was currently a record number of women in construction in Chile.

    Questions by Committee Experts 

    MARION BETHEL, Committee Expert and Rapporteur for Chile, said there was a lack of temporary special measures for indigenous women, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and intersex women, and other disadvantaged women.  Was the State party working to create these?

    ANA PELÁEZ NARVÁEZ, Committee Chair, asked how the State party ensured access to justice for vulnerable women.  Could indigenous women use their own languages in court?  What measures were in place to protect girls in the justice system?  How did the State ensure access to its national surveys for indigenous women, girls and women with disabilities? 

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said the Government was drafting a law on access to justice for gender-based crimes.  The judiciary had training programmes on gender and sexual diversity and there had been an inclusion protocol developed for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex community.

    The Government was working to ensure access to social programmes for marginalised groups of the population. Community care centres had been set up in rural areas to support the care burden for indigenous peoples. Information on sexual and reproductive rights was being provided to indigenous women in different indigenous languages and in Braille.  The national census was made available in the main three indigenous languages.  A law had been passed to recognise Chilean people of African descent, and the Ministry of Women had a body working to promote the rights of women of African descent.

    Questions by Committee Experts 

    A Committee Expert welcomed that Chile’s domestic legislation needed to be interpreted in line with the international human rights treaties ratified by Chile, and commended the State party’s efforts to address historical wrongs against women.  How was the State party advancing space exploration led by women and addressing the threats posed to women by autonomous weapons systems?  How would the State party incorporate women peacebuilders within its national action plan on women, peace and security?

    Technology-assisted violence disproportionately affected women.  How was the State party addressing algorithmic biases against women in artificial intelligence models?  The State had impressive laws on violence against women and femicide.  What was the reparation regime for femicide?  How did the State party monitor the implementation of the law on workplace harassment and prevent reprisals against women who reported it?  The State party needed to immediately promulgate the law on consent for sexual relations.  Was the monitoring mechanism for discrimination against HIV-positive people still in place?  Did the media law prohibit gender stereotyping? 

    Trafficking remained a problem in Chile. There were around 20,000 illegal adoptions; the stealing of children was reportedly a lucrative business for criminal groups.  Children in child protection centres were at risk of trafficking.  What reparations had been provided for victims of illegal adoptions?  What measures were in place to support women and children who were at risk of trafficking?

    ANA PELÁEZ NARVÁEZ, Committee Chair, congratulated the State party on implementing the ruling of the Inter-American Court of Human Rights regarding reparation for the forced sterilisation of a woman.  Was forced sterilisation of women with disabilities common?  When would the State party criminalise this practice? How was the State party ensuring protection for girls who were wards of the State from institutional violence?

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said women were included in Chile’s armed forces.  The Commission of Peace and Understanding between the State and the Mapuche people, which included Mapuche women, was striving to achieve peace and an end to conflict with the Mapuche.  Chile had had a feminist foreign policy since 2022, and a gender lens was incorporated into foreign aid activities.  Chile was focusing on including women in international peace negotiations, such as negotiations with Colombia.  The State party had included a gender dimension in the regulation of autonomous weapons and in disarmament efforts.

    There were differing opinions on the effectiveness of establishing a law on consent for sexual relations; negotiation on this act was ongoing.  Laws had been implemented that increased penalties for obstetric violence and the non-consensual dissemination of pornographic material.  The new comprehensive law on violence against women addressed obstetric violence.  Courts were providing compensation for moral harm caused by obstetric violence and failed sterilisation procedures requested by women.

    Chile was promoting the inclusion of women in science, technology, engineering and maths careers and there had been an increase in women taking up these careers.  The State party had passed a law that promoted the inclusion of women in the mining sector.

    The State had a new procedure for assessing international adoptions and was supporting investigations into the kidnapping of children.  One individual who had been kidnapped had been identified and reunited with their family. The State party was working to establish a genetic database to help reunite families and victims.

    Chile had not received complaints related to the forced sterilisation of persons with disabilities.  It had recently adopted a law that required free, prior and informed consent for sterilisation procedures.  The State party had created a special body monitoring girls, boys and adolescents who were wards of the State.  Protection measures were implemented as a last resort.

    Questions by Committee Experts 

    A Committee Expert commended the State party’s commitment to female diplomacy and representation in all decision-making arena.  Would the State party implement quotas for 50 per cent representation of women at all levels of government?  The Expert welcomed the definition of “political violence” against women in the State’s legislation.  Was there a system for implementing this legislation?  What measures were in place to promote gender parity in the private sector? Was there a system to assess the environmental and gender impacts of foreign policies?

    Another Committee Expert welcomed efforts to address statelessness, including the implementation of the Statelessness Convention and the granting of Chilean nationality to all people born on Chilean territory.  Many children were born on migratory routes in Chile, increasing their risk of statelessness.  How was the State party working to register the births of migrant children?  Could it provide statistics in this regard?  How was the State party promoting access to refugee status determination procedures?

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said Chile’s feminist foreign policy included measures promoting the representation of women in the foreign service.  Around 24 per cent of Chile’s ambassadors were female, up from around 12 per cent in 2022.  The State was approaching gender parity in its diplomatic corps.  All Chile’s trade agreements had specific chapters on women. Chile had won a prize from the World Trade Organization for promoting gender equality through trade.

    There had been a rise in female participation in the Congress.  Quotas had been established for electoral lists.  Women were currently heading 13 different ministries, including ministries typically led by men.  Quotas were also being implemented in the regional elections that were currently underway.  A tool had been developed to support women wishing to run for election.  The Government had recognised political violence as a form of discrimination.  The Electoral Service was developing clear standards on this form of violence.

    Currently, all children born on migratory routes had access to Chilean nationality.  The State project on statelessness had allowed for the provision of nationality to around 100 children.  The law on immigration respected the best interests of the child. A draft law had been developed to provide nationality to children who did not have identity documents.  The State party worked to prevent refoulement of migrants.

    Questions by Committee Experts 

    A Committee Expert commended the educational reforms implemented by the State party.  What strategy did the State party have to prevent the dissemination of gender stereotypes in education?  What redress systems were in place for victims of discrimination within education? What monitoring was in place to ensure that the language policy empowered and did not stigmatise indigenous children?  What temporary special measures were in place to promote access to education for minority girls? 

    Had the State party developed disability-friendly learning environments and promoted inclusive education?  What was the rate of return for girls who left the education system early?  How did the State party’s science, technology, engineering and maths education programme address structural barriers to women accessing careers in this field?  The reproductive health education programme started in the second education cycle and was not compulsory.  Would the State party make the programme compulsory, continuing and age appropriate?

    Another Committee Expert commended the State party’s gender parity initiative, the law to reduce the maximum weekly working hours, and the law to implement International Labour Organization Convention 190.  The gender pay gap persisted in the State party.  What measures would the State party take to address the gap, particularly in higher paying positions?  The labour participation rate for women was 48.1 per cent in 2021.  What measures were in place to increase the rate and eliminate horizontal and vertical discrimination against women in the workplace? How was the State party promoting women’s participation in the digital economy, and the employment of marginalised women?  How were self-employed women and domestic workers supported to access State benefits? What efforts had been made to promote the equal sharing of household responsibilities between men and women? Could data on this be provided?

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said Chile had developed a draft bill on schooling that addressed discrimination within the educational community.  The bill was currently being assessed by Congress.  National days on non-sexist education had been held; over 450,000 children and parents had participated.  The admission system for higher education had been amended to support women’s access.  Textbooks had been updated to remove gender stereotypes.  The Government was also working to discourage violence in educational settings.  There were seven possible programmes for sex education, and schools could choose which programme they provided.  The State party planned to develop a bill that would improve the quality of sex education.  Educational institutions were being provided with guidance to implement inclusive education for children with disabilities.

    Between 2022 and 2024, women’s wages had increased by six per cent, and employment rates for women had returned to pre-pandemic levels.  The gender wage gap had decreased from 25 per cent in 2022 to 23 per cent in 2023. Most trade unions had greater participation of women than men.  Regulations had been implemented that allowed for shorter working hours for workers with children.  The number of days that parents could have off when their children were sick had been increased from 15 to 30.  Chile’s legislation established the joint responsibility of parents in caring for their children.  A programme had been developed to provide care for children in rural areas during holiday periods to allow their mothers to continue working.  This programme was now being expanded.

    Questions by Committee Experts 

    A Committee Expert said learners with auditory disabilities had complained that digital education portals were not accessible for them.  Had the State addressed this issue?  Each of the seven possible sexual health education programmes needed to be compliant with the Convention.  How many educational institutions had been fined for discrimination against girls?

    Another Committee Expert commended the State party’s initiative to decriminalise abortion on all grounds. The Committee was concerned by the high rates of teenage pregnancy and sexual abuse of teenage girls.  What was being done to prevent early pregnancies, sexual abuse of girls, and delays in processing of abortion requests?  Around 42 per cent of obstetric practitioners were conscientious objectors to abortion.  In rural areas, there were no alternatives if local doctors were conscientious objectors.  How was the State party addressing this?  Many women had experienced obstetric violence.  What support was the State party providing to ensure access to reparation for such violence?

    One Committee Expert commended the State’s pension and labour law reform.  Women’s unpaid working hours exceeded those of men by a large margin. Almost half of households were headed by women, many of which were impoverished.  There was a pay gap regarding pension payments for retirees. How was the State party preventing the widening of the gender wage gap and working to reduce the representation of women in the informal sector?  How would the State party correct the gender inequalities in the pension system and compensate women for unpaid care work?  Over 40 per cent of companies did not have women on their boards; how was this being addressed?

    What measures were in place to promote women and girls’ access to cultural and sporting activities, and to address discrimination against women in sports?

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said Chile had seen a downward trend in teenage pregnancies since 2016, influenced by the free distribution of contraception.  To prevent the underground use of misoprostol, the State party was developing legislation that decriminalised abortion.  Under 10 per cent of health providers had conscientious objectors to abortions.  The State party supported the referral of persons seeking abortions to alternative abortion providers in cases of conscientious objection.  Conscientious objectors were required to provide abortions if there was a risk to the life of the mother.  Chile had amended legislation to require healthcare institutions to provide patients with information on their abortion rights in various languages.  Around 70 per cent of girls under 14 who requested abortions did so on the grounds of rape.  An early referrals programme had been developed to speed up their access to abortions.  Most family court cases concerning abortions for minors who had been raped were decided within two days.

    Coverage of the pension system had reached 80 per cent, increasing greatly in recent years.  The State party was implementing reforms to close the gender pension gap.  It had drafted a law towards this aim that was currently in its second reading.  A national survey was being carried out that assessed the distribution of domestic work responsibilities.  It would inform future support policies.

    Questions by Committee Experts 

    A Committee Expert asked if the State party had considered mechanisms to prevent backstreet abortions.  What support did the State provide to girls who underwent abortions?

    Another Committee Expert asked if girls aged 16 and over could access abortions in cases of rape.

    One Committee Expert asked about measures to support women entrepreneurs’ access to loans and credit.

    A Committee Expert asked about steps that had been taken to develop an action plan on rural women and girls that addressed their access to services and land.  Chile was the only country in Latin America that did not recognise indigenous peoples in its Constitution.  Would the State party establish a ministry of indigenous affairs, as the Committee had previously recommended? What measures were in place to guarantee the right to tenure and ownership of land for indigenous women? Women of African descent were not visible in the State party due to a lack of data. Not all women of African descent were recognised by the State party in its legislation; how would this be addressed?

    Another Committee Expert commended reforms that raised the minimum age of marriage to 18 without exception.  De facto early unions were still being carried out in Chile.  What measures were in place to identify such unions and to support their dissolution, particularly in rural areas?  How was the State party promoting access to adoption for same-sex couples?  What was the status of efforts to amend the marital regime and to educate the population in this regard?  How effectively were temporary protective measures implemented to protect women and children in cases of family violence?

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said Chile planned to collect more data on people of African descent through its 2025 census. The Ministry of Women and Equity had implemented measures to support access to land tenure for indigenous peoples. There had yet to be progress on the draft law establishing a ministry of indigenous affairs; the Government would devote further efforts toward this aim.

    A national roundtable had been set up to support rural and indigenous women.  The roundtable had developed a programme to support access to water for these women.  There was also a programme supporting the development of rural and indigenous women as leaders.

    Amendments to the adoption law had been discussed for over 10 years.  The Government was working to establish a law that allowed for the adoption of children by same-sex couples.  Custody of children was not granted to violent parents.  Recent legislative reform defined children who experienced domestic violence as victims.  The State party was working to reform the marital property regime to increase women’s access to property in cases of divorce.

    Questions by Committee Experts 

    A Committee Expert said extractive industry activities had affected access to water in rural areas.  Would the State party strengthen environmental regulations to ensure that agribusiness activities did not negatively affect rural and indigenous women?  What steps had been taken to hold persons responsible for human rights violations occurring in the context of the 2019 protests?

    Another Committee Expert noted that a case had been brought before the Supreme Court in 2021 by two women regarding the shutting down of a power plant in Huasco.  What measures were in place to protect women in Huasco from pollution from power plants?

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said a plan was being developed to gradually close power plants in Huasco and to provide reparations to persons who had been affected by pollution from these plants.  A draft bill had been put forward to address the loss of rural ecosystems caused by the activities of extractive industries.  A climate change adaption plan was also in place.

    Around 50 complaints had been brought against civil servants related to their actions in response to the 2019 protests, some of which had led to prosecutions.  Five of these cases involved female victims. 

    Concluding Remarks

    ANTONIA ORELLANA GUARELLO, Minister of Women and Gender Equity of Chile and head of the delegation, said the dialogue had been constructive.  The Committee’s inputs had been and would continue to be vital for the State party.  Chile was committed to implementing the rights of women in all their diversity. The State party had made progress but acknowledged that gaps remained.  The Committee’s recommendations would help the State party to move forward.  Chile would work to collect disaggregated data on women, achieve gender parity at all levels, increase access to abortion, promote the rights of older women and reform the pension system, and improve the situation of women deprived of liberty.

    ANA PELÁEZ NARVÁEZ, Committee Chair, said that the dialogue had helped the Committee to better understand the situation of women and girls in Chile.  It would develop recommendations based on the dialogue to strengthen the implementation of the Convention for the benefit of all women and girls in Chile.

    ___________

    Produced by the United Nations Information Service in Geneva for use of the media; 
    not an official record. English and French versions of our releases are different as they are the product of two separate coverage teams that work independently.

     

    CEDAW24.028E

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman to leave tonight for an official visit to Mexico and USA from 17th to 26th October 2024

    Source: Government of India

    Union Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman to leave tonight for an official visit to Mexico and USA from 17th to 26th October 2024

    Union Finance Minister to attend Annual Meetings of the IMF-World Bank

    FM will also take part in  G20 Finance Ministers & Central Bank Governors meetings besides bilateral meetings with many countries and organisations

    Smt. Sitharaman will engage in multilateral discussions on multiple fora and also showcase India’s attractiveness as an investment destination

    Posted On: 15 OCT 2024 5:38PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman will embark on a visit to Mexico and USA on an official visit beginning 16th October, 2024.

    During the official leg of her maiden visit to Mexico from 17th to 20th October 2024, the Union Finance Minister will lead an Indian delegation of officials from the Ministry of Finance, underscoring a positive trajectory of growing bilateral economic and trade relations between the two countries.

    Beginning her visit in Guadalajara, Union Finance Minister Smt. Sitharaman will chair the Tech Leaders Roundtable that will bring together global technology leaders, including the major Indian IT giants present in Guadalajara. Later, Smt. Sitharaman will also visit the TCS headquarters in Guadalajara — a significant contributor to the Mexican IT ecosystem and known as the ‘Silicon Valley’ of Mexico with a significant presence of major global IT and tech companies. 

    Smt. Sitharaman will also hold a bilateral meeting with her counterpart H.E. Mr. Rogelio Ramirez de la O, Minister of Finance and Public Credit of Mexico. Besides, the Union Finance Minister will also hold discussions with several members of the Mexican Parliament to strengthen parliamentary cooperation and foster economic development.

    In Mexico City, Smt. Sitharaman will deliver a keynote address at the India-Mexico Trade and Investment Summit with participation from key industry captains from both the countries. Separately, Smt. Sitharaman will also engage with leading business figures and industry representatives from Mexico. These meetings with leading business leaders and investors are aimed at highlighting India’s policy priorities, and deliberate on measures to facilitate foreign investment by showcasing India’s attractiveness as an investment destination.

    In the last leg of her maiden visit to Mexico, the Union Finance Minister will participate in a community event, being hosted by the Indian diaspora.

    During the official leg of her visit to the USA from 20th to 26th Oct. 2024, Smt. Sitharaman will participate in the Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, the 4th G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governor (FMCBG) Meetings, besides the G20 Joint Meeting of FMCBGs, Environment Ministers, and Foreign Ministers; and G7 – Africa Ministerial Roundtable.

    In the course of her two-city visit to New York City and Washington D.C., the Union Finance Minister will participate in the Pension Funds Roundtable at New York Stock Exchange; interact with students and faculty at the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, and also at the Columbia University; and the Global Sovereign Debt Roundtable (GSDR) and take part in discussions organised by the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) and Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) respectively.

    The Union Finance Minister will take part in bilateral meetings with several countries, including United Kingdom, Switzerland, and Germany, besides holding one-on-one meetings with heads of World Bank (WB), Asian Development Bank (ADB), European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), and CEOs of banking and financial institutions.

    In a high-level event, the Union Finance Minister will participate in a World Bank Group discussion ‘From Idea to Implementation: New Financial Solutions to Accelerate Development’.

    The Union Finance Minister will also share her thoughts during a discussion on Bretton Woods Institutions (BWI) with other panelists, Mr. Lawrence H. Summers; Mr. Carlos Cuerpo, Minister of Economy, Trade and Business, Spain; and Ms. Rania Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, Egypt. The event is organised by the Centre for Global Development (CGD).

    ****

    NB/KMN

    (Release ID: 2065036) Visitor Counter : 100

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Day 2 of the 19th International Conference of Drug Regulatory Authorities Workshop Concludes at Yashobhoomi, New Delhi

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 15 OCT 2024 6:58PM by PIB Delhi

    The second day (15th October 2024) of 19th International Conference of Drug Regulatory Authorities (ICDRA) workshop happening in Yashobhoomi Convention Centre, Dwarka, New Delhi, concluded today. There were a number of technical presentations and moderated panel discussion on the regulatory framework of various regulatory agencies across the world.

    Yesterday, Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare inaugurated the 19th ICDRA. The event which is being hosted for the first time in India, from 14th – 18th October 2024 by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) brought together regulatory authorities, policymakers, and health officials from different WHO member states.

    The purpose of 19th ICDRA is to facilitate focused discussions on quality issues, regulatory reforms and strengthening regulatory systems, safety of medical products, detection, prevention and response to substandard and falsified medical products, access to quality medical products, smart regulation of clinical trials, regulatory collaboration, harmonization, rationalization and reliance, access to new and novel technologies, regulation of novel medical products, regulation of herbal medicines, etc.

    During the workshop, co-moderators, Speakers and panellists from different countries like Singapore, Switzerland, South Africa, Brazil, Uganda, Tanzania, Netherlands, Canada, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Thailand, El Salvador, Nigeria, USA, Ghana, Kenya, Botswana, Denmark, and India delivered presentations on a range of issues like Access to Medical Products, Quality of Pharmaceutical Starting Materials, Regulation of Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products and Replacing, Reducing and Refining dependence on animal studies, Improving Access to Medical Devices (including IVDs) Through Prequalification and Reliance and Prequalification of Medical Products etc. The African Medicines Agency provided update on the operationalisation of the AMA.

    The main objective of the presentations was to discuss the impact of facilitated product introduction pathways on increasing access to medical products. They aimed to promote awareness of the dimensions and impact of issues related to the quality of pharmaceutical starting materials, sharing experiences, approaches, and interventions from regulators and other stakeholders, with a focus on high-risk starting materials. The presentations also sought to promote the establishment of robust regulatory frameworks for Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products, raise awareness and create opportunities for replacing, reducing, and refining reliance on animal studies, and provide information on the WHO prequalification of IVDs. Additionally, they explained the processes of reliance and recognition through prequalification and the Collaborative Registration Procedure (CRP), while addressing the successes and challenges of implementing reliance for IVD pre-market approval, and promoting the WHO Prequalification of Medicines (WHO PQT).

    The presentations were followed by moderated panel discussions, Q&A sessions and finalization of recommendation/suggestions.

    ***

    MV

    HFW/ 2nd Day of ICDRA /15th October 2024/1

    (Release ID: 2065079) Visitor Counter : 41

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India and Colombia sign Audio-Visual Co-Production Agreement to boost film co-production and cultural ties

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 15 OCT 2024 7:18PM by PIB Delhi

    India and Columbia have signed the Audio-Visual Co-Production Agreement which will enable Indian and Colombian film producers to utilize a platform for collaboration on various facets of film making. The agreement is expected to deepen the engagement between the critical sectors of the film industries of both countries thereby, unfolding a new chapter of collaboration. The agreement was signed by the Honourable Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting Dr. L. Murugan and His Excellency Mr. Jorge Enrique Rojas Rodriguez, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Colombia to India.

    Colombia – 17th Country to sign Audio Visual co-production Agreement with India

    The agreement between India and Columbia is expected to benefit producers from both the countries in pooling their creative, artistic, technical, financial and marketing resources for the co-production. It will also lead to exchange of art and culture and create goodwill among the people of both the countries thereby boosting cultural ties.

    The agreement will also provide an opportunity to create and showcase India’s ‘Soft Power’ and lead to employment generation among artistic, technical and non-technical human resources engaged in film production including post-production and marketing.

    The Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Dr L Murugan, highlighted the strengthening cultural and cooperative ties between India and Colombia. Speaking on the long-standing relationship, the Minister emphasized India’s diverse and multi-dimensional collaboration with Colombia.

    “India has enjoyed a rich cultural exchange with Colombia over the years. We have cooperation in various fields, including science and technology, defence, IIT, health, and culture. The Government of India acknowledges the importance of co-production agreements, a significant step towards fostering international partnerships. Our first co-production agreement was a landmark moment, and we have consistently built on that foundation,” said the Minister.

    The agreement is expected to boost the utilization of Indian locales for shooting. It will increase the visibility/prospects of India as a preferred film shooting destination across the globe and will lead to the inflow of foreign exchange into the country. The agreement will also lead to the transparent funding of Film Production and will boost export of Indian Films into the Columbian Market.

    Audio-visual co-production agreements with various countries

    Earlier, the Government of India had signed similar agreements with the Government of Italian Republic and Government of United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland in 2005, Federal Republic of Germany in 2007, Government of the Federative Republic of Brazil in 2007, Republic of France in 2010, Republic of New Zealand in 2011, Republic of Poland and Republic of Spain in 2012.  More recent agreements were signed with Canada and China in 2014, Republic of Korea in 2015, Bangladesh in 2016, Portugal in 2017, Israel in 2018, Russia in 2019 and Australia in 2023.

    Agreements unlock Government financial aid and support

    The Co-production agreements signed so far seek to achieve economic, cultural and diplomatic goals. For filmmakers, the key attraction of a treaty co-production is that it qualifies as a national production in each of the partner nations and can avail benefits that are available to the local film and television industry in each country. Benefits accruing from such agreements include government financial assistance, tax concessions and inclusion in domestic television broadcast quotas.

    Enhanced financial support for official co productions and foreign productions in India

    India has increased the incentives for film production in India including for coproductions 12 times with the maximum incentive possible being 300 Million Rupees. The incentives scheme for official co-productions offers reimbursement of up to 30% of costs incurred in India, with a maximum of ₹300 Million. Services undertaken in India for Foreign Productions can claim an additional bonus of 5% for showcasing Significant Indian Content subject to a maximum of INR 300 Million. A further 5% can be claimed for employing 15% or more Indian manpower raising the reimbursement to 40% of the expenses.

    Speaking on the occasion, the Secretary, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, announced about India’s upcoming role as a global platform for the best in cinema, media, and entertainment. “Starting from the 20th of November, India will be hosting the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa which will showcase the best cinema from across the world and within India. ” said the Secretary.

    The Secretary also highlighted that in February 2025, India will also be hosting the much-anticipated World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES) which will witness the convergence of traditional broadcasting, films, and new forms of media and entertainment, marking a pivotal moment in the future of the industry.

    Participants from Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India –

    I.          Dr. L. Murugan, Hon’ble Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting

    II.        Shri Sanjay Jaju, Secretary (I&B)

    III.       Ms. Neerja Shekhar, Additional Secretary(I&B)

    IV.       Ms. Vrunda Manohar Desai, Joint Secretary (Films)

    V.        Ms. Shilpa Rao Tanugula, Director, (IIS, IIMC, CRS)

    Participants from Republic of Colombia

    I.          H.E. Mr. Jorge Enrique Rojas Rodríguez, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Colombia (Head of Delegation)

    II.        H.E. Dr. Victor H. Echeverri Jaramillo, Ambassador of the Republic of Colombia to India

    III.       Mr. Juan Carlos Rojas, Deputy Chief of Mission, Embassy of Colombia to India

    IV.       Ms. Laura Montejo Espitia, First Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Colombia

    V.        Ms. Alejandra María Rodríguez, Second Secretary, Embassy of Colombia to India

    VI.       Mrs. Minni Sawhney, Resource person.

    *****

    Dharmendra Tiwari/Kshitij Singha

    (Release ID: 2065093) Visitor Counter : 9

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Road Transport & Highways reviews readiness of the automobile industry for ethanol and flex fuels with representatives of the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM)

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 15 OCT 2024 7:30PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Road Transport & Highways, Shri Nitin Gadkari, held a review meeting with members of the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) at Transport Bhawan today. They discussed how prepared the automobile industry is for using ethanol and flex fuels.

     

    The discussion focused on how the industry is preparing to launch ethanol-powered vehicles in the coming months. Shri Gadkari also spoke about the benefits of switching from fossil fuels to biofuels, which will help India become more self-reliant (Atmanirbhar), lower pollution, reduce the country’s annual fossil fuel imports, and provide consumers with cheaper fuel options, all while supporting farmers.

    He urged SIAM members to explore ways to increase public acceptance of these fuels, pointing to Brazil’s successful adoption of flex fuels and biofuels in its transportation system as an example.

    *****

    NKK/GS/AK

    (Release ID: 2065102) Visitor Counter : 30

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Australia’s new Humanitarian Policy

    Source: Australian Government – Minister of Foreign Affairs

    The Australian Government has launched a landmark new Humanitarian Policy to set the long-term direction and focus for Australia’s humanitarian action to ensure it saves lives, alleviates human suffering, and builds resilient communities.

    Right now, there is more conflict than any time since the Second World War and the worsening impacts of climate change mean Australia’s humanitarian action must be fit for our times and the future.

    The Policy outlines the role Australia will play when need is outstripping the world’s capacity to respond, and disregard for international humanitarian law is increasing.

    The new Humanitarian Policy focuses on three priorities:

    • Building readiness and preparedness to anticipate shocks before they occur and working with our international partners to lessen their impact;
    • Responding to crises and disasters by delivering support that meets the needs of crisis-affected populations and protects the most vulnerable immediately and in the long-term; and
    • Reinforcing the international humanitarian system and taking principled and practical steps to strengthen adherence to international humanitarian law.

    The Policy maintains Australia’s focus on the Indo-Pacific, where Australia can make the greatest impact, drawing on our strengths and deep relationships.

    Australia will also provide $5 million to support a newly-established Asia-Pacific Regional Humanitarian Fund to rapidly respond to escalation in humanitarian needs in complex crises and disasters in our region.

    The launch of the Policy complements the Albanese Government’s global initiative to drive action to protect aid workers in conflict zones, announced at the United Nations last month.

    Australia brought together ministers from Brazil, Colombia, Indonesia, Japan, Jordan, Sierra Leone, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom who agreed to pursue a new Declaration for the Protection of Humanitarian Personnel.

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator the Hon Penny Wong:

    “Australia has a proud history of supporting those in need during conflict and crises, but a changing world requires a new approach.

    “The new Humanitarian Policy is not just about saving lives and meeting humanitarian needs. It is also about protecting the peace, stability and prosperity that we want for Australia, our region and the world.

    “It is ultimately about shaping a world where humanitarian assistance is needed far less often.”

    Quotes attributable to Minister for International Development and the Pacific and Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery, the Hon Pat Conroy MP:

    “When Australia’s friends and neighbours need help, we respond – just as they have consistently helped Australia in our own times of need.

    “Our new Humanitarian Policy builds on the relationships and partnerships we have forged over time, enabling even stronger support when disaster strikes.

    “It continues our tradition of leadership and principled humanitarian action as a partner of choice, while better positioning us for the challenges of the future.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI: Silvaco Announces Preliminary Unaudited Revenue for Q3 and Updates Full Year 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SANTA CLARA, Calif., Oct. 15, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Silvaco Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: SVCO) (“Silvaco” or the “Company”), a provider of TCAD, EDA software, and SIP solutions that enable semiconductor design and digital twin modeling through AI software and innovation, today announced preliminary unaudited revenue results for the third quarter 2024 and updated its outlook for the full year 2024. The Company will report its full third quarter 2024 earnings results and hold a conference call with an earnings presentation on November 12, 2024.

    “Similar to trends observed across the semiconductor industry, we saw a decline in orders from Asia during Q3 primarily driven by economic challenges and the ongoing strain in U.S.-China trade relations. Accordingly, we are adjusting our expectations for the remainder of the year,” said Babak Taheri, Silvaco’s Chief Executive Officer. Dr. Taheri continued, “We remain confident in our long-term strategy and continue to believe we will be able to achieve double-digit long-term revenue growth driven by our proprietary platform and solutions, examples of which are described in our recent press release of September 24, 2024, alongside our ability to effectively capitalize on strategic acquisition opportunities.”

    Preliminarily, the Company expects total unaudited revenues for the third quarter 2024 to be approximately $11.0 million, not including a large order of approximately $5.0 million, which was expected in the third quarter of 2024, but was received in the first week of the fourth quarter of 2024. This order is included in our full-year guidance for bookings below and is expected to contribute to the Company’s fourth quarter of 2024 revenue. Preliminary results are unaudited, subject to completion of the Company’s financial reporting process, based on information known by management as of the date of this press release, and do not represent a comprehensive statement of our financial results for the third quarter 2024.

    In addition, based on current business trends and conditions, the Company is updating its expectations regarding the full year 2024, as follows:

      Previous Full Year 2024 Guidance Updated Full Year 2024 Guidance
    Gross bookings $67 million to $71 million $64 million to $67 million
    Revenue $63 million to $66 million $60 million to $63 million
    year-over-year growth 16% to 22% 10% to 16%
    Non-GAAP gross margin 85% to 89% 85% to 87%
    Non-GAAP operating income $8.0 million to $11.0 million $5.0 million to $8.0 million
         

    This updated guidance represents Silvaco’s current estimates of its operations and financial results as of October 15, 2024. The financial information above represents forward-looking financial information and in some instances forward-looking, non-GAAP financial information, including estimates of non-GAAP gross margin and non-GAAP operating income. GAAP gross margin is the most comparable GAAP measure to non-GAAP gross margin, and GAAP operating income is the most comparable GAAP measure to non-GAAP operating income. Non-GAAP operating income differs from GAAP operating income in that it excludes items such as certain transaction-related costs, IPO preparation costs, estimated acquisition-related litigation claims and costs, stock-based compensation, amortization of acquired intangible assets, impairment charges and executive severance costs. Silvaco is unable to predict with reasonable certainty the ultimate outcome of these exclusions without unreasonable effort. Therefore, Silvaco has not provided guidance for GAAP gross margin or GAAP operating income or a reconciliation of the forward-looking non-GAAP gross margin or non-GAAP operating income guidance to GAAP gross margin or GAAP operating income, respectively. However, it is important to note that these excluded items could be material to our results computed in accordance with GAAP in future periods.

    Q3 2024 Conference Call Details

    A press release highlighting the Company’s results along with supplemental financial results will be available at https://investors.silvaco.com/ along with an earnings presentation to accompany management’s prepared remarks on the day of the conference call, after market close. An archived replay of the conference call will be available on this website for a limited time after the call. Participants who want to join the call and ask a question may register for the call here to receive the dial-in numbers and unique PIN.

    Date: Tuesday, November 12, 2024
    Time: 5:00 p.m. Eastern time
    Webcast: Here (live and replay)

    About Silvaco

    Silvaco is a provider of TCAD, EDA software, and SIP solutions that enable semiconductor design and digital twin modeling through AI software and innovation. Silvaco’s solutions are used for semiconductor and photonics processes, devices, and systems development across display, power devices, automotive, memory, high performance compute, foundries, photonics, internet of things, and 5G/6G mobile markets for complex SoC design. Silvaco is headquartered in Santa Clara, California, and has a global presence with offices located in North America, Europe, Brazil, China, Japan, Korea, Singapore, and Taiwan.

    Safe Harbor Statement

    This press release contains forward-looking statements based on Silvaco’s current expectations. The words “believe”, “estimate”, “expect”, “intend”, “anticipate”, “plan”, “project”, “will”, and similar phrases as they relate to Silvaco are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements reflect the current views and assumptions of Silvaco and are subject to various risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from expectations.

    These forward-looking statements include but are not limited to, statements regarding our future operating results, financial position, and guidance, our business strategy and plans, our objectives for future operations, our development or delivery of new or enhanced products, and anticipated results of those products for our customers, our competitive positioning, projected costs, technological capabilities, and plans, and macroeconomic trends.

    A variety of risks and factors that are beyond our control could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements including, without limitation, the following: (a) market conditions; (b) anticipated trends, challenges and growth in our business and the markets in which we operate; (c) our ability to appropriately respond to changing technologies on a timely and cost-effective basis; (d) the size and growth potential of the markets for our software solutions, and our ability to serve those markets; (e) our expectations regarding competition in our existing and new markets; (f) the level of demand in our customers’ end markets; (g) regulatory developments in the United States and foreign countries; (h) changes in trade policies, including the imposition of tariffs; (i) proposed new software solutions, services or developments; (j) our ability to attract and retain key management personnel; (k) our customer relationships and our ability to retain and expand our customer relationships; (l) our ability to diversify our customer base and develop relationships in new markets; (m) the strategies, prospects, plans, expectations, and objectives of management for future operations; (n) public health crises, pandemics, and epidemics and their effects on our business and our customers’ businesses; (o) the impact of the current conflicts between Ukraine and Russia and Israel and its adversaries including Hamas and Hezbollah and the ongoing trade disputes among the United States and China on our business, financial condition or prospects, including extreme volatility in the global capital markets making debt or equity financing more difficult to obtain, more costly or more dilutive, delays and disruptions of the global supply chains and the business activities of our suppliers, distributors, customers and other business partners; (p) changes in general economic or business conditions or economic or demographic trends in the United States and foreign countries including changes in interest rates and inflation; (q) our ability to raise additional capital; (r) our ability to accurately forecast demand for our software solutions; (s) our expectations regarding the outcome of any ongoing litigation; (t) our expectations regarding the period during which we qualify as an emerging growth company under the JOBS Act and as a smaller reporting company under the Exchange Act; (u) our expectations regarding our ability to obtain, maintain, protect and enforce intellectual property protection for our technology; (v) our status as a controlled company; and (w) our use of the net proceeds from our initial public offering.

    It is not possible for us to predict all risks, nor can we assess the impact of all factors on our business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements we may make. Accordingly, you should not rely on any of the forward-looking statements. Additional information relating to the uncertainty affecting the Silvaco’s business is contained in Silvaco’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These documents are available on the SEC Filings section of the Investor Relations section of Silvaco’s website at http://investors.silvaco.com/. These forward-looking statements represent Silvaco’s expectations as of the date of this press release. Subsequent events may cause these expectations to change, and Silvaco disclaims any obligations to update or alter these forward-looking statements in the future, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Discussion of Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    We use certain non-GAAP financial measures to supplement the performance measures in our consolidated financial statements which are presented in accordance with GAAP. These non-GAAP financial measures include non-GAAP gross margin, and non-GAAP operating income (loss). We use these non-GAAP financial measures for financial and operational decision-making and as a means to assist us in evaluating period-to-period comparisons.

    We define non-GAAP gross margin as our GAAP gross margin adjusted to exclude certain costs, including stock-based compensation and amortization of acquired intangible assets. We define non-GAAP operating income (loss) as our GAAP operating income (loss) adjusted to exclude certain costs, including certain transaction-related costs, IPO preparation costs, estimated acquisition-related litigation claims and costs, stock-based compensation, amortization of acquired intangible assets, impairment charges, and executive severance costs. We monitor non-GAAP gross margin and non-GAAP operating income (loss) as non-GAAP financial measures to supplement the financial information we present in accordance with GAAP to provide investors with additional information regarding our financial results.

    Certain of the items excluded from our non-GAAP gross margin and non-GAAP operating income (loss) are non-cash in nature or are not indicative of our core operating performance and render comparisons with prior periods and our competitors less meaningful. We adjust GAAP gross margin and GAAP operating income (loss) for these items to arrive at non-GAAP gross margin and non-GAAP operating income (loss) because these amounts can vary substantially from company to company within our industry depending upon accounting methods and book values of assets, capital structure and the method by which the assets were acquired. By excluding certain items that may not be indicative of our recurring core operating results, we believe that non-GAAP gross margin and non-GAAP operating income (loss) provide meaningful supplemental information regarding our performance.

    We believe these non-GAAP financial measures are useful to investors and others because they allow for additional information with respect to financial measures used by management in its financial and operational decision-making and they may be used by our institutional investors and the analyst community to help them analyze our financial performance and the health of our business. However, there are a number of limitations related to the use of non-GAAP financial measures, and these non-GAAP measures should be considered in addition to, not as a substitute for or in isolation from, our financial results prepared in accordance with GAAP. Other companies, including companies in our industry, may calculate these non-GAAP financial measures differently or not at all, which reduces their usefulness as comparative measures.

    Investor Contact:
    Greg McNiff
    investors@silvaco.com

    Media Contact:
    Tyler Weiland
    press@silvaco.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The ELN must recommit to the ceasefire in Colombia: UK statement at the UN Security Council

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Colombia.

    Location:
    United Nations, New York
    Delivered on:
    (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)

    Foreign Minister Murillo, Interior Minister Cristo, the UK welcomes your commitment to building sustainable peace in Colombia and your renewed focus on the implementation of the 2016 Peace Agreement. 

    We welcome your Rapid Response Plan and the prioritisation of interventions that respond to the needs expressed by conflict-affected communities, as well as your focus on land issues and security guarantees. 

    I also thank Beatriz Quintero for her briefing today.  Implementation of the gender provisions of the peace agreement remains essential for building sustainable peace in Colombia. It should be accelerated.

    We look forward to the launch of Colombia’s first National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security, and trust that its energetic implementation will help reduce the impacts of conflict on women and girls from communities across the country.

    We also welcome the government’s continued efforts to implement the ‘Comprehensive Programme for the Safeguarding of Women Leaders and Human Rights Defenders’ which is critical to protecting and promoting women’s leadership in Colombia.

    President, we remain concerned by the levels of conflict-related violence, especially against peace signatories, human rights defenders, social leaders, environmental activists, women and LGBTQ+ persons, with a disproportionate impact on Afro-Colombian and indigenous communities.

    Their safety and security are critical and crucial to long-term peacebuilding in Colombia. We support the government’s efforts to dismantle illegal armed groups and the reactivation of the National Commission of Security Guarantees.

    We are disappointed by the ELN’s failure to respond positively to the Colombian government’s proposals for extending the ceasefire. We condemn the increased levels of violence perpetrated by the ELN since 23 August. 

    And we call upon the ELN to re-commit to dialogue and a ceasefire and hope progress will be made to this end in the upcoming discussion between the parties. Actions must focus on alleviating the suffering of affected communities and demonstrate a pathway towards peace.

    We also call upon the factions of the group known as EMC that have remained in dialogue with the government to use that process to renounce violence and illicit activities and pursue their aims through political means.

    Colleagues, in conclusion, the United Kingdom will continue to partner with and support Colombia along its path to sustainable peace. As we reach the eighth anniversary of the 2016 Peace Agreement, we must continue to drive forward its full implementation to achieve real and lasting change.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Colombia: Shared Commitments for Women, Peace and Security – Media Stakeout | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Joint Statement by the Security Council signatories of the Statement of Shared Commitments for the Principles of Women, Peace and Security: Ecuador, France, Guyana, Japan, Malta, Republic of Korea, Sierra Leone, Slovenia, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States of America, on the situation in Colombia.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3NhuXewuGX0

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: WTO 2024 SPS Transparency Champions Course concludes in Geneva

    Source: WTO

    Headline: WTO 2024 SPS Transparency Champions Course concludes in Geneva

    Participants were trained on the importance of transparency in the SPS Agreement, with particular attention to notifications of health and safety regulations. They also gained hands-on experience of the ePing SPS&TBT Platform designed to facilitate this process.
    The course’s programme included sessions dedicated to supporting participants in developing action plans to improve SPS transparency frameworks in their respective governments. Participants further benefited from the expert guidance and contributions of SPS practitioners from Brazil and Uganda, and from various organizations, including Codex Alimentarius, the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC), and the Advisory Centre on WTO Law (ACWL).
    In his remarks at the opening session of the course, Edwini Kessie, Director of the WTO Agriculture and Commodities Division, underscored the critical role of transparency in international trade.
    “Non-tariff measures like SPS regulations are a double-edged sword. While they play a vital role in safeguarding public health and safety, they can sometimes be misused as disguised restrictions to trade. Therefore, being ‘transparent’ about these measures is critical to facilitating trade, and ensuring a stable, predictable business environment, which, in turn, encourages investment,” said Edwini Kessie​. He further emphasised the significance of tools like ePing in streamlining notifications and fostering coordination on SPS regulations.
    Upon completion of the course, Sakshee Pipliyal, from India’s Food Safety and Standards Authority, highlighted the engaging format of the course, which combined theoretical insights with real-world examples: “The course offered an in-depth exploration of the SPS Agreement and its transparency provisions, significantly enhancing my understanding of both the legal framework and practical implementation.”
    For Sonam Dorji N, from Bhutan’s Ministry of Health, the training was an eye-opener: “The course expanded my capability to understand how to manage SPS related issues and communicate effectively with the traders and private industries, which is important for exporting agricultural products.”​
    Jabulani Njabulo Mkhonta, from Eswatini’s Ministry of Agriculture, stressed the broader economic benefits of SPS transparency among his key takeaways: “Being transparent on SPS measures benefits the country by boosting participation in global trade.” He also noted that the interactive and practical aspects of the programme were particularly enriching, allowing participants to network and share experiences across diverse sectors.
    After the training programme, participants are expected to implement the action plans developed during the course to strengthen transparency in their SPS frameworks. A follow-up session, scheduled for 2025, will provide them with the opportunity to report on their progress and share lessons learned.
    The WTO members and observers represented at the training course included: Angola, Bangladesh, Barbados, Bhutan, Cabo Verde, Cambodia, Eswatini, Honduras, India, Indonesia, Kyrgyz Republic, Madagascar, Malaysia, Maldives, Morocco, Myanmar, Namibia, Nepal, Nicaragua, Paraguay, Russian Federation, Chinese Taipei, Thailand, Türkiye, and Zambia.

    Share

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: dLocal to Report Third Quarter 2024 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MONTEVIDEO, Uruguay, Oct. 15, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — DLocal Limited (NASDAQ: DLO, “dLocal” or the “Company”), a technology-first payments platform enabling global enterprise merchants to connect with billions of consumers in emerging markets, intends to release financial results for its third fiscal quarter ended September 30, 2024 on November 13, 2024 after market close.

    The Company will host a conference call and video webcast on November 13, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. Eastern Time.

    Please click here to pre-register for the conference call and obtain your dial in number and passcode. The live conference call can be also accessed via audio webcast at the investor relations section of the Company’s website, at https://investor.dlocal.com/. An archive of the webcast will be available for one year following the conclusion of the conference call.

    About dLocal

    dLocal powers local payments in emerging markets connecting global enterprise merchants with billions of emerging market consumers across APAC, the Middle East, Latin America, and Africa. Through the “One dLocal” concept (one direct API, one platform, and one contract), global companies can accept payments, send pay-outs and settle funds globally without the need to manage separate pay-in and pay-out processors, set up numerous local entities, and integrate multiple acquirers and payment methods in each market.

    Forward Looking Statements

    This press release contains certain forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements convey dLocal’s current expectations or forecasts of future events. Forward-looking statements regarding dLocal involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause dLocal’s actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performances or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Certain of these risks and uncertainties are described in the “Risk Factors,” and “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” sections of dLocal’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Unless required by law, dLocal undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect circumstances or events after the date hereof.

    Investor Relations Contact:

    investor@dlocal.com

    Media Contact:

    marketing@dlocal.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Frederica Wilson joined City of Miami Commission Meeting to Present $1,000,000 Check for Little Haiti Youth Center at Athalie Range Park

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Frederica S Wilson (24th District of Florida)

    At the City of Miami Commission Meeting Tuesday, Congresswoman Frederica S. Wilson (FL-24) presented a $1,000,000 check to the City of Miami for the Little Haiti Youth Center at Athalie Range Park. It is designed to provide local youth and residents with a safe, state-of-the-art space to gather and thrive.

    Congresswoman Frederica Wilson said, “This isn’t just any building; it’ll be a 12,000 square-foot hub of creativity and activity. This will be a place where our children and families can gather, learn, and create lasting memories together. Because let’s be real—no child should have to sit in a McDonalds parking lot just to find WiFi to finish their homework. Our kids deserve better, and it’s our job to create those spaces for them. I’m incredibly proud to be part of this effort to uplift our community and invest in our future.”

    This approximately 12,000 sq. ft. ADA-compliant facility will feature a 3,000 sq. ft. multipurpose room, a computer lab with charging stations, three homework rooms, an arts and crafts room, an indoor fitness area with equipment and lockers, a kitchen, restrooms, and ample storage. Outside, a large plaza with concrete seating and shade structures will support outdoor activities. These innovative features will create a space where children and families can enrich their lives and strengthen social development.  This funding was secured as part of the Fiscal Year 2024 Congressional Appropriations process.

    City of Miami Chairwoman Christine King, who represents this park in her district, said, “Thank you Congresswoman Wilson for helping the future generations of our community with this $1M fund for the Little Haiti Youth Center at Athalie Range Park. It is our responsibility to provide children of every ability a place they can play, learn, and connect. By supporting their development and providing them meaningful engagement opportunities, we are nourishing the minds and dreams of future community advocates and leaders.

    Miami-Dade County Commissioner Keon Hardeman said, “Investing in a safe, state-of-the-art space at Athalie Range Park is essential for our local youth and residents to flourish. This new space will foster new connections, empower dreams, and cultivate a thriving environment that will uplift our community for decades to come.”

    City of Miami Commissioner Manolo Reyes said, “[Congresswoman Wilson] goes beyond her district, and when you talk about a real public servant, this is an example of it.”

    City of Miami Commissioner Damian Pardo said, “I just want to express my gratitude and what a pleasure it is to work with [Congresswoman Wilson], and I look forward to the work we’re doing in Little Bahamas.”

    This park is named after Athalie Range, a trailblazing Bahamian American civil rights activist and the first Black person to serve on the Miami City Commission. She also previously served as President of her children’s school PTA and Miami-Dade PTA.

    To view the full recording of the presentation, please visit the City of Miami TV to see the City of Miami Commission Meeting Archives.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Electronics Latin America Expands Newsroom To Include Paraguay and Uruguay

    Source: Samsung

    Samsung Electronics Latin America (SELA) has today announced the expansion of its regional Newsroom to include news and updates from Paraguay and Uruguay, extending its reach to an even wider audience across Latin America. Starting this month, these two strategic markets join a regional network that already serves Central America, the Caribbean, Ecuador and Venezuela.
     
    The inclusion of Paraguay and Uruguay expands the global Samsung Newsroom network to cover a total of 60 regions around the world.
     
    Samsung Newsroom has established itself as a leading source of information on Samsung for media outlets, business partners, tech enthusiasts and product users across Latin America. The online platform offers in-depth access to product launches, technological innovations and key events shaping Samsung’s agenda in Paraguay, Uruguay and other Latin American markets. In addition to the latest updates on mobile devices, smart appliances and business solutions, Samsung Newsroom highlights the company’s sustainability efforts and social responsibility initiatives throughout the region.
     
    “We are thrilled to welcome Paraguay and Uruguay to our news platform,” said Larissa Espinal, Head of Corporate Marketing Group at Samsung Electronics Latin America. “This expansion will allow us to further strengthen our connection with local audiences and share information on how Samsung transforms lives through innovation and technology.”
     
    Visit the Samsung Electronics Latin America Newsroom to discover the latest in Samsung technology from Paraguay, Uruguay and the broader Latin American region.
     

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Attorney General’s 2024 Bingham Lecture on the rule of law

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    On 14 October 2024, the Attorney General Lord Hermer KC delivered the 2024 Bingham Lecture titled ‘The Rule of Law in an Age of Populism’.

    Location:
    The Honourable Society of Gray’s Inn
    Delivered on:
    (Original script, may differ from delivered version)

    Opening remarks

    Thank you Helena for that introduction.  It is a particular privilege to be introduced by a friend who I admire and respect so much and by someone who has spent a lifetime promoting the rule of law and protecting human rights.      

    Thank you also to the Bingham Centre for inviting me to speak to you this evening.

    For nearly fifteen years, the Bingham Centre has been an essential voice for the advancement of rule of law values at home and abroad. Its work to promote a better understanding of the rule of law and to help build the capacity to give it practical effect, has never been more vital than it is today.

    It is a record of which Tom Bingham, in whose name I am honoured to give this lecture, would surely have been proud. It is wonderful to see so many of his family here tonight, Lady Bingham, Dame Kate, Kit and Mary.

    Lord Bingham’s judicial and non-judicial writing, his stature as one of the great postwar judges, has been an inspiration for generations of lawyers, myself very much included.  I had the privilege of appearing in front of Lord Bingham as a junior in a series of interesting cases before the House of Lords in which I was led by a promising young silk called Keir Starmer. 

    But like many in this audience I also felt a personal tie to Tom Bingham.  I applied for silk in 2009 and Lord Bingham was one of my referees but sadly my father, who was a lawyer, died shortly before my appointment.  My sense of loss at not being able to share the news with my dad was softened by the fact that before he died I was able to show him a letter that Lord Bingham had written to me.  The letter was filled with the warmth and support that many who knew Tom Bingham will recognise. Thus I will always feel a very personal debt of gratitude to him for the joy and pride that his letter gave to my dad.   

    It was in his cogent and elegant account of the rule of law that Tom Bingham encapsulated in his eight principles.  Such was the authority and clarity of his analysis that the principles are now a necessary reference point for any discussion (or indeed speech) on the subject.

    As Sir Jeffrey Jowell put it when he spoke at the launch of this Centre back in December 2010:

    Tear open the Bingham package of requirements for the rule of law and, as each of his ingredients falls away, we progressively observe the stark outlines of tyranny- at worst; or authoritarianism – at best.

    That remark has a particular resonance today. And what better illustration of the enduring contribution of that book could there be than the sight, earlier this year, of its Ukrainian translation being launched in Kyiv, on the frontline of the ongoing struggle for democratic, rules-based values.

    Introduction: setting the scene, and the challenge

    As that scene attests, we are living through uncertain and challenging times, with threats to the rule of law on a number of fronts.

    This evening, I would like to talk about the necessary response to these challenges, through restoration of our reputation as a country that upholds the rule of law at every turn and by embedding resilience to rebuff the populist challenge. 

    Restoration and resilience.  I’m going to begin by setting out the nature of the challenge as well as proffering some thoughts on the relationship between the rule of law, democracy and human rights.  I will then turn to three themes that I consider lie at the heart of the restoration and resilience project firstly, the rebuilding our reputation as a leader in the field of international law and the international rules based order; secondly, the strengthening of Parliament’s role in upholding the rule of law and thirdly the promotion of a rule of law culture.

    Our starting point is not a happy one.  Conflict currently affects more countries than at any time since the Second World War. As too many people around the world are driven from their homes by wars and instability, there is a sense of an international system that is unable to act. That is unable to prevent wars of aggression and to address desperate humanitarian need.

    As the Prime Minister said at the General Assembly in New York, those “institutions of peace” that the UK and others worked so hard to establish after the horrors of the Second World War are struggling. Those rules that we have all worked so hard to maintain are being undermined. And faith in international law, and the international rule of law, is being chiselled away in communities who are told, time and again, that the system is failing to deliver for them.

    The challenges we face are increasingly global – whether the development of AI, the threat of climate change, growing inequality, or increased migration – and we need a functioning global order, underpinned by a strong commitment to the rule of law, to even begin to tackle them.

    At home, too, we cannot afford to be complacent about the extent to which values that once were taken for granted have been undermined. A near decade of crisis and political instability has, at times, stretched the fabric of our constitution to its limit.  I don’t wish to make a party political speech, indeed I am determined to make the promotion of the rule of law a project we can all sign up to irrespective of our political allegiance. 

    At a time when there is a desperate need for cooperation and solutions, we are increasingly confronted by the divisive and disruptive force of populism. This is not a new phenomenon. But in recent years we have grown accustomed to diagnosing its symptoms, on both right and left.

    We face leaders who see politics as an exercise in division; who appeal to the ‘will of the people’ (as exclusively interpreted by them) as the only truly legitimate source of constitutional authority.

    Their rhetoric conjures images of a conspiracy of ‘elites’; an enemy that is hard to define, but invariably including the people and independent institutions who exercise the kind of checks and balances on executive power that are the essence of liberal democracy and the rule of law. Judges. Lawyers. A free press. NGOs. Parliament. The academy. An impartial and objective civil service.  Populists work to diminish their legitimacy or, at worst, actively remove them from the scene altogether.

    Allied to this, we have also seen how populism, in its most pernicious forms, works to demonise other groups, usually minorities – to discredit the legal frameworks and institutions that guarantee their rights, and dismantle, often through calculated misinformation, the political consensus that underpins them.

    The argument

    Times of crisis and challenge are fertile ground for this kind of politics. And they can create a receptive audience for the populists’ argument that the rule of law is somehow in tension with democratic values.

    It is this dynamic that I want to address in tonight’s speech – I want to argue that this is precisely the time for us to reaffirm that the rule of law – both domestically and internationally – is the necessary precursor to those democratic values, providing the foundations for political and economic flourishing.

    And I want to be clear that by the rule of law, I do not just mean rule by law; a purely procedural and formal conception that populists and authoritarians can themselves so often use as a cloak of legitimacy.

    One of Lord Bingham’s great contributions was to promote a more substantive conception of the rule of law, including the idea that the law must afford adequate protection of fundamental human rights. I too believe that human rights – both at the level of principle, and in practice through how they are enforced – are an essential element of the rule of law and a stable democratic culture. As well as recognising and protecting the dignity of all, they guarantee the essential rights and freedoms which underpin our system.

    Far from being at odds with democracy, as some populists would have us believe, the rule of law is the bedrock on which it rests. What good is democracy – indeed, can democracy exist – without the right to free and fair elections or freedom of speech, guaranteed by the right of access to the courts and an independent judiciary? And I would go further. Democracy, in my view, is inextricably related to the rule of law, properly understood. For what good is the rule of law without democracy, which confers essential legitimacy on the rules that govern the relationship between citizen and state?

    Lord Bingham’s conception of the rule of law also recognises that international law is the ‘Rule of Law’ writ large, and that States must comply with their international obligations, just as they must comply with domestic law. This, too, is crucial. International law is not simply some kind of optional add-on, with which States can pick or choose whether to comply. It is central to ensuring our prosperity and security, and that of all global citizens.  As will develop later, our reputation as a country that can trusted to comply with its international law obligations, and has a robust adherence to the rule of law, is essential to our ability to grow the economy, as grow it we shall.

    And maintaining our international reputation also enhances our ability to work with our partners to get things done in this time of global challenge. Rather than isolating ourselves from our closest allies, it means we can strengthen cooperation on issues like migration; whether that’s the Anti-Smuggling Action Plan, which the Home Secretary secured with G7 partners in Italy earlier this month; or closer working with international law enforcement partners to target smuggling gangs.

    To shore up the rule of law against the forces of populism, we must also emphasise its importance as an idea that unites, rather than divides us. The work to rebuild a political consensus around these values will not be easy. It must be proactive, cross-party and internationalist. It must be sensitive to any legitimate reasons why people have lost faith in the rule of law and its institutions. It will require patient, long-term thinking, hard work and consistent commitment to build the necessary coalitions, and to produce and implement detailed policy proposals.

    So, to meet these challenges it is my view that we need to take immediate steps to restore the UK’s reputation as a rule of law leader whilst at the same time also seek to build and secure the rule of law’s long term resilience in the face of threats known and unknown, domestic and international.

    Restoration and resilience.  Restoration and resilience.  In this speech, I want to talk about three themes that will guide this Government in this project.  As I outlined earlier, my first theme, is rebuilding the UK’s international rule of law leadership before turning next to the role of Parliament and then finally embedding a rule of law culture.

    Theme 1: rebuilding the UK’s international rule of law leadership

    The UK’s international rule of law leadership.

    Historically, the UK has been a leader in developing and promoting international law and the institutions on which its effectiveness depends. British lawyers and politicians have been at the forefront of drafting and negotiating the most important treaties that underpin our international legal system and building the institutional machinery that breathes life into those paper agreements.

    The UK will again demonstrate that leadership – so essential in today’s highly-connected, but highly fragmented, world – and sadly so absent in recent years.

    That starts by clearly, and without question, honouring our obligations under international law.

    Since taking office, this Government has already taken steps to uphold those obligations and demonstrate our deep commitment to international law. We have reached agreement with Mauritius to settle the historic sovereignty claims over BIOT/Chagos Archipelago in a manner that successfully marries our international law obligations with vital national security requirements; we have applied our IHL obligations by compliance with our arms licensing criteria – applying law not politics; we have made plain our commitment to our cornerstone international institutions not least the ICJ and ICC.

    And we will continue to abide by and unequivocally support the European Convention on Human Rights, including by complying with requests from the Court for interim measures. Walking, or threatening to walk away, would be a total abdication of our international law responsibilities and send out precisely the wrong message at a time when the rule of law is under threat in so many places.

    But we will go further than simply meeting our obligations under the Convention specifically and international law generally – that we will do so should go without saying. My point is that the UK will once again be a champion for international courts and institutions, taking positive steps to promote their importance and to rebuild the respect for them that the populists have sought to destroy.  As the Prime Minister has said, having discovered the Convention in a law library in Leeds some 40 years ago, the rights it sets out speak about the dignity of every human being, and are a source of inspiration from which we can all draw strength and value.

    After the First World War, the UK championed the establishment of a Permanent Court of International Justice. British Judges sitting in that Court and many subsequent international courts and tribunals have delivered judgments that have brought clarity to all areas of international law.

    I am therefore delighted that the UK National Group has announced its intention to nominate Professor Dapo Akande – who will be well known to many in this room – as the UK’s candidate for election to the International Court of Justice in 2026. I cannot think of a better representative for the UK’s expertise in international law and I am delighted to personally endorse Dapo’s campaign.

    And it is through international courts that we hope to finally see justice for Ukraine. I have dedicated my professional life to fighting for justice and accountability, and nowhere was the need for that more apparent than in my recent visit to Ukraine. I was profoundly struck by the stories I heard at Bucha’s cathedral and in Irpin.

    Despite the unimaginable suffering that the people of Ukraine have endured, they remain clear-eyed about the importance of the international rule of law and accountability. I – and the whole Government – remain steadfast in our support for Ukraine, on the battlefield and in the courtroom. This includes support for work towards establishing a Special Tribunal on the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine.

    But these systems, and the promise offered by international law, only work when we work in partnership with our friends and partners around the world.

    In many parts of the world, especially in the Global South, the international rules-based order and human rights are often seen as imperialist constructs, selectively invoked by western governments when it suits their interests. It is incumbent upon us to first, listen, to those who feel unheard. And secondly, to demonstrate – not just with warm words, but with concrete actions – that international law can deliver real benefits to all. And those actions must be consistent, we must show that we will hold ourselves to the highest standards.

    We will advocate for reform of the Security Council, to ensure that those with seats at the top table truly represent the global community. That means permanent representation from Africa, from Brazil, India, Japan and Germany.  And our approach to international development will show that we have learnt the lessons of history that, to be sustainable, the rule of law cannot be imposed on developing countries by former colonial rulers, but must be grown organically from within by working closely with local communities and institutions.

    And we will be unwavering in our commitment to tackling climate change, where we know that many of the worst effects are felt by those who have made the smallest contributions to this existential threat.

    Theme 2: defending and strengthening Parliament’s role in upholding the rule of law.

    My second theme is closer to home. A crucial part of restoring the rule of law, and building resilience in the face of future threats, involves thinking about the respective roles of our own institutions in upholding these fundamental values.

    This must start by recognising that upholding the rule of law cannot just be left to the courts. All branches of our constitution must see the rule of law, in its fullest sense, as a guiding force for their own actions.

    Speaking as a relatively new member of two of these branches, I hope my colleagues in this room will not mind if I offer some initial reflections on the role of Parliament in this regard; both in terms of its own functions, and the Government’s relationship to it.

    Parliamentary sovereignty is one of the fundamental features of our constitution and the ultimate legal authority of Parliament to make or unmake any law is crystal clear.  However, viewing the rule of law through this distorting lens of ultimate decision-making authority alone risks mistaking it for a purely formal, and thin, conception of ‘rule by law’. 

    As lawyers know, Parliament’s authority in our constitution is legal authority, an authority that requires that Parliament maintains in its legislation the ideals of the rule of law, of government under law, one of the contributions to the modern world of which we in the UK are justly proud.  And as I (following Lord Bingham) have explained, those ideals are much thicker and more substantive that the thin gruel of a formal conception of ‘rule by law’.

    We have seen in recent years where that disregard for our constitutional rule of law heritage can lead.  It is crucial that all institutional actors understand their role in a government under law. When Government invites Parliament to breach international law, or oust the jurisdiction of the courts, it not only undermines the rule of law, but also the mutual respect that historically has been one of the great strengths of our constitution.  It risks pitting one institution against another in ways that damage our reputation both inside and outside our borders as a law-abiding nation. 

    We must also work to counter the false choice, offered by some, between parliamentary democracy and fundamental rights. For almost a quarter of a century, the Human Rights Act has shown how it is possible, with imagination, to provide a legal framework for the protection of fundamental rights which can co-exist with parliamentary sovereignty. Indeed, the Act specifically preserves Parliament’s ultimate decision-making authority through its regime of non-binding Declarations of Incompatibility, defences, and section 19(1)(b) statements.

    And the enforcement of the Act otherwise by the courts, far from being at odds with democracy, is its vindication. Because it was our democratically elected Parliament that legislated for the Human Rights Act, and provided the mechanisms by which individual rights should be given meaningful effect in domestic law. It is testament to the framers of the Act that no Parliament elected since 1998 has chosen to fundamentally alter that position.

    It is also right to reflect on how Parliament can itself actively protect and enhance rule of law values. It does this through its scrutiny of legislation, most notably through the expertise of my colleagues in both Houses, but also through its Select Committee system. And it is incumbent on any government to ensure that those Committees are able to do their jobs effectively. I welcome the contribution that committees such as the Lords Constitution Committee, the Delegated Powers Committee and the Joint Committee on Human Rights make to the debate on human rights and the rule of law, and I look forward to working constructively with them in this Parliament.

    But there are aspects of Government’s relationship with Parliament that require more careful examination. Most pressingly, there is in my view a real need to consider the balance between primary and secondary legislation, which in recent years has weighed too heavily in favour of delegated powers.

    The twin challenges of Brexit and the Covid pandemic had the effect of concentrating immense power in the hands of the executive, through the conferral and exercise of broad delegated powers, including so-called Henry VIII powers. Some of this can be explained by the exceptional character, and unique demands, of both events. However, it would be a mistake to view this as an aberration. As the Delegated Powers and Regulatory Reform Committee have noted, Brexit and Covid did not mark the beginning of the shift in the balance between Parliament and the executive, so much as an acceleration and intensification of an existing trend.

    As technical as these issues may sound, they raise real questions about how we are governed. I said earlier that I see democracy as inextricably related to the rule of law. In our system of Parliamentary democracy, consent to be governed is expressed through the delegation, every four or five years, of powers by the governed to Parliament. It is the importance of this model of consent that explains in very large measure why I have been so concerned, on entering Government, to improve the standards we adhere to when we make policy and law – and specifically to ensure that the processes we adopt support the rule of law.

    Secondary legislation has an indispensable role to play in a modern, regulated society. There is no suggestion that the Government should not take or exercise delegated powers. However, excessive reliance on delegated powers, Henry VIII clauses, or skeleton legislation, upsets the proper balance between Parliament and the executive. This not only strikes at the rule of law values I have already outlined, but also at the cardinal principles of accessibility and legal certainty.

    In my view, the new Government offers an opportunity for a reset in the way that Government thinks about these issues. This means, in particular, a much sharper focus on whether taking delegated powers is justified in a given case, and more careful consideration of appropriate safeguards.

    Theme 3: promoting a rule of law culture, which builds public trust in the law and its institutions

    Finally, in my third theme I want to talk about culture and how we promote a rule of law culture which builds public trust in the law and its institutions – a vital task if the rule of law is to be made resilient enough to withstand the threats I have described in this age of populism.

    We begin this task from a difficult place. Too often, the starting point for debate is that law is part of the problem. At best, an abstraction that is disconnected from the realities of people’s lives. At worst, it can be held up by populists as a force that is somehow illegitimate. All of us who care about this subject – and particularly those of us in Government – need to work hard to counter these attitudes, and to foster a better understanding of the rightful place of law in a liberal democratic society.

    For Government, this means leading by example.  I hope you take some comfort in the fact that the importance of the rule of law and the constitutional balance is embedded in my DNA and that of a Prime Minister who not only rose to the top ranks of the Bar but served his country as DPP.  Vitally, it is also a principle deeply cherished and jealously protected by the Lord Chancellor who has overarching constitutional authority as the guardian of the rule of law not least to protect the independence of the judiciary.  Anyone who knows the Lord Chancellor and her determination to champion the rule of law will know that there will be no repeat of failures to defend attacks on the judiciary under her watch.   

    Of course, we will be judged by what we do, not what we may have done in the past let alone what we say now – and we will demonstrate our commitment to the rule of law in real and practical ways.  By way of example only, in the coming weeks I will issue an amended guidance for assessing legal risk across government that will seek to raise the standards for calibrating legality that the thousands of brilliant lawyers working in every part of government activity apply to deliver for the people of this country – I want them to feel empowered to give their full and frank advice to me and others in government and to stand up for the rule of law.

    But the challenge to rebuild a broad consensus around rule of law values, cannot be left merely to politicians.  It is a project that can only succeed if it is taken up by all of us, politicians, judges, lawyers, civil society, citizens. 

    We need to recognise that the populists have stolen a march – it is nearly always easier to deride and denigrate than it is to promote complex but vital principles.  We cannot stand by idly as rule of law principles and the human rights idea are undermined, sometimes without challenge, on television screens, the pages of newspapers and most effectively and invidiously of all, on social media.

    The challenge is to get out and explain the importance of the principles that we hold so dear – we have a fantastic story to tell and tell it we must. 

    We need to explain that the rule of law is not the preserve of arid constitutional theory.  We need to explain how it provides the stable and predictable environment in which people can plan their lives, do business and get ahead; in which businesses can invest, the economy can grow; people can resolve disputes fairly and peacefully, and express and enjoy their basic rights and freedoms. We must illustrate how systems that do not hold to these values can be arbitrary and capricious. And backsliding from Rule of Law values, once it begins, can take an unpredictable course.

    The story that we must tell is how the rule of law matters for growth, jobs and people’s livelihoods – how it impacts upon the pound in their pocket and on the type of future their children deserve to enjoy. Governments that undermine, or take a ‘pick and mix’ approach to these values, disincentivise investment. Today, we have hosted the Investment Summit with a clear message that Britain is open for business. Britain has many commercial advantages, but one of our greatest is the trust that businesses can have in our courts, and the confidence they can have in a stable and transparent business environment, underpinned by a strong rule of law.

    Education has a crucial role to play. We must take these messages to our schools and wider communities. I commend the work of civil society groups and charities such as Young Citizens and the Citizenship Foundation, and the Bingham Centre itself, who work with schools to promote a better understanding of the law and its importance in society. I believe it is right to think about whether even more can be done to strengthen the role of citizenship education as a means of promoting a better understanding of our constitution and, particularly, the importance of the rule of law.

    But we must also talk about these issues in a way that resonates with the public and in language that everyone understands. Because most people would instinctively recognise rule of law principles as values that are part of the very fabric of our society. Fair play. Justice. Rules that apply equally to all; not one rule for them, and another for the rest of us. And where disputes do arise – whether with a business, an employer, or a neighbour – an independent courts system which provides the means for their just resolution.

    And in the public realm, law is the great leveller that holds the powerful to account, and ensures that individual rights are respected. Those rights – human rights – are our rights, and belong to us all.  

    So it is we must proudly own the story of the European Convention on Human Rights, not least because in so doing we expose the wanton superficiality of many of its critics. We must explain how the values of the Convention are not foreign to us. They are universal. Closely connected rights are found deeply embedded in the heart of our own legal tradition. Echoes of habeas corpus, Magna Carta, and the Bill of Rights, can all be located in Articles 5 and 6 ECHR.  This country banned torture long before our continental cousins, never mind the promulgation of Article 3.  It is no coincidence that it was British lawyers, most notably the Conservative David Maxwell Fyfe, who helped to frame the European Convention after the Second World War, drawing of course inspiration from the Universal Declaration of Human Rights but also centuries of our own legal values.  It is simply legally fatuous and historically ignorant of armchair critics of the Convention to declare that its supporters somehow seek to undermine our traditions or should be dismissed as naive snowflakes. 

    To the contrary, the Convention was drafted by men and women who had witnessed the very worst that humans can do to each other, their views were forged not in a Tufton Street seminar but in the trenches and the battle grounds, in the prisoner of war camps and the historic prosecutions of the Nazi war criminals at Nuremberg.  The drafting and adoption took place not in a time of overindulgence but when societies were rebuilding from rubble and indeed this country was still under rationing.  They were hard-nosed men and women from a generation who had seen conflict and vowed ‘never again’.    The structures they helped to create, the values that underpin them, have served us well as a bulwark against totalitarianism, and a foundation for European peace. And they remain the best hope of protecting us from the threats we face today.

    For too long, populists have been able to frame the debate on human rights too narrowly, by reference to issues which, important as they are, can often feel disconnected from the everyday. We have to work to change this, not only by busting myths, but by showing how human rights positively touch so many aspects of wider society. The right to be treated equally. The right to express ourselves. The freedom to live in the way we choose, without undue interference from the state. These are the values we cherish and have chosen, collectively, to protect.

    So too must we work to combat disinformation and misinformation about law and lawyers. The disgraceful scenes of violent disorder over the summer, including threats against immigration law firms and advice centres, showed only too vividly that what is said online can have dangerous consequences in the real world.

    But the response to the riots also showed something more hopeful. People took to the streets not only to clean up and repair the damage, but to stand together against the forces of reaction and division. It is that spirit of decency and fairness that we must harness in our cause.   

    When I went to Liverpool I visited the library that had been burnt down in the riots and met a group of children who had been cowering under beds and in cupboards as the mobs went by at night but who the next morning got up and came to volunteer to rebuild.  I talked with them about the books that we were donating to the library (including Helena’s latest) which all concern how law and justice work for everyone – and we discussed the meaning and significance of the inscription that my office had placed inside each cover, taking the words of Dr Martin Luther King – that although the arc of humanity is long, it bends towards justice.

    Conclusion

    Restoration and resilience. These are the watchwords that will guide our defence of the rule of law in the face of populism. It is by renewing our commitment to rule of law values, as a Government and as a nation, at home and abroad, and patiently rebuilding the political consensus underpinning that commitment, that we will ensure that the rule of law is safe for future generations; so we may continue to work together towards achieving the Bingham Centre’s vision of ‘a world in which every society is governed by the Rule of Law in the interests of good government, peace at home and in the world at large’.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Sky Quarry Partners with Atlas Roofing Corp. to Explore Asphalt Shingle Recycling

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Exploratory Relationship Will Assess and Develop Mutually Beneficial Processes for the Recovery of Waste Asphalt Shingle Material and Oil

    WOODS CROSS, Utah, Oct. 15, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sky Quarry Inc. (NASDAQ: SKYQ) (“Sky Quarry” or the “Company”), an oil production, refining, and development-stage environmental remediation company formed to deploy technologies to facilitate the recycling of waste asphalt shingles and remediation of oil-saturated sands and soils, today announced it has entered into an exploratory relationship with Atlas Roofing Corporation (“Atlas”) to assess and develop mutually beneficial processes for asphalt shingle recycling.

    Atlas Roofing Corporation is an innovative, customer-oriented manufacturer of residential and commercial building materials. Atlas has grown from a single shingle-manufacturing plant into an industry leader with 33 facilities across North America. Atlas has partnerships with some of North America’s most respected companies, allowing Sky Quarry to provide new technologies to various markets.

    Under the partnership, Sky Quarry will collaborate with Atlas to explore the use of its closed loop recycling process and proprietary shingle extraction technology to recover both material and oil from Atlas’ waste shingles. In lab testing, Sky Quarry’s ECOSolv technology has demonstrated a material recovery rate of up to 95%, recycling of up to 99% of its solvent, and recovery of up to 99% of hydrocarbons.

    “As a leader in the building products industry, Atlas is an ideal partner to demonstrate our groundbreaking application capable of separating waste shingles into clean oil and other valuable materials,” said David Sealock, Chairman, CEO and Co-Founder of Sky Quarry. “Currently, there are no sustainably viable solutions for the disposal of waste asphalt shingles, and we believe this exploratory relationship will show how our sustainable business model can transform an environmental challenge into a profitable and sustainable prospect. We look forward to working with the team at Atlas to develop mutually beneficial processes for their waste shingles.”

    About Atlas Roofing Corporation

    From a single asphalt shingle manufacturing facility in 1982, Atlas has grown to 33 manufacturing facilities in North America providing worldwide product distribution. Today, products from the company’s four major divisions, Polyiso Roof & Wall Insulation, Shingles & Underlayments, Molded Products, and Web Technologies, are manufactured in state-of-the-art facilities and shipped from a network of manufacturing plants and distribution facilities in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Atlas’ mission is to deliver leading products and solutions that enrich the lives of those they touch, by nurturing a culture of agility, teamwork, and accessibility that attracts the most talented people in their industries.

    Atlas Roofing Corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hood Companies, Inc. Hood Companies is a privately owned, closely held holding company and is the parent to operating subsidiaries involved in the manufacture and distribution of forest and wood products, building and construction materials, and flexible and corrugated packaging products throughout North America. For more information, please visit atlas-arc.com.

    About Sky Quarry Inc.

    Sky Quarry Inc (NASDAQ: SKYQ) and its subsidiaries are, collectively, an oil production, refining, and a development-stage environmental remediation company formed to deploy technologies to facilitate the recycling of waste asphalt shingles and remediation of oil-saturated sands and soils. Our waste-to-energy mission is to repurpose and upcycle millions of tons of asphalt shingle waste, diverting them from landfills. By doing so, we can contribute to improved waste management, promote resource efficiency, conserve natural resources, and reduce environmental impact. For more information, please visit http://www.skyquarry.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release may include ”forward-looking statements.” All statements pertaining to our future financial and/or operating results, future events, or future developments may constitute forward-looking statements. The statements may be identified by words such as “expect,” “look forward to,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “seek,” “estimate,” “will,” “project,” or words of similar meaning. Such statements are based on the current expectations and certain assumptions of our management, of which many are beyond control. These are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties, and factors, including but not limited to those described in disclosures. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize or should underlying expectations not occur or assumptions prove incorrect, actual results, performance, or our achievements may (negatively or positively) vary materially from those described explicitly or implicitly in the relevant forward-looking statement. We neither intend, nor assume any obligation, to update or revise these forward-looking statements in light of developments which differ from those anticipated. You are urged to carefully review and consider any cautionary statements and other disclosures, including the statements made under the heading “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in the offering statement filed with the SEC. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of the document in which they are contained.

    Investor Relations
    Chris Tyson
    Executive Vice President
    MZ Group – MZ North America
    949-491-8235
    SKYQ@mzgroup.us
    http://www.mzgroup.us

    Company Website
    https://investor.skyquarry.com/

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: USCG Operation Demonstration Coqui

    Source: US Coast Guard (video statements)

    U.S. Coast Guard Research and Development Center and Coast Guard Sector San Juan members test the uncrewed aircraft systems and uncrewed surface vessels capabilities Sept. 15, 2024, at San Juan, Puerto Rico. Operation Demonstration Coquí is a collaboration between the RDC, Customs and Border Protection, Coast Guard Seventh District and Sector San Juan.

    (U.S. Coast Guard video by Petty Officer 2nd Class Jose Hernandez, Petty Officer 2nd Class Ian Gray, and Petty Officer 2nd Class Erik Villa Rodriguez)

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MKs2_lEMneI

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI: Fortiva® Retail Credit Announces Second Look Partnership with Mor Furniture for Less

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ATLANTA, Oct. 15, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Fortiva® Retail Credit, the leader in second look point-of-sale financing, today announced a new partnership with Mor Furniture for Less, a premier furniture retailer on the West Coast that ranks among the top 100 furniture retailers in the US.

    The Fortiva Retail Credit program offers second look financing solutions that help businesses sell more goods by providing more consumers with access to credit. This partnership will allow Mor Furniture for Less to expand consumer financing options for home furnishings purchases. Fortiva Retail Credit’s market-leading technology and proprietary underwriting will help Mor Furniture for Less approve more consumers and facilitate a seamless consumer application process for customers in-store and online.

    “We are thrilled to announce our partnership with Mor Furniture for Less, offering a second look lending solution to optimize Mor Furniture’s consumer finance program,” said David Caruso, Chief Commercial Officer for Atlanticus Holdings Corporation. “Our commitment to offering more inclusive financial services to millions of everyday Americans is a core principle which aligns with Mor Furniture’s mission of delivering consumers the best value on quality merchandise.”

    Harold Linebarger, Chief Operating Officer for Mor Furniture, stated, “Partnerships which provide value to both the consumer and the retailer are essential to Mor’s success. Mor is thankful for the opportunity to provide even greater value to our valued customers and is looking forward to this new partnership.”

    About Fortiva Retail Credit
    Fortiva® Retail Credit is a technology-enabled second look point-of-sale consumer credit program issued by The Bank of Missouri. The omnichannel program leverages instant decisioning capabilities, deep underwriting analytics, and a paperless process to provide best-in-class retail finance solutions for its clients both in-store and online. This flexible technology platform provides consumers with a loan decision within seconds. Clients in markets such as furniture, big box/specialty retail, flooring, home improvement, HVAC, electronics, elective medical, health and fitness, home automation, and jewelry offer the Fortiva Retail Credit program for second look financing. The Fortiva® Retail Credit program is available throughout the United States, including Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The Fortiva Retail Credit program is managed by subsidiaries of Atlanticus Holdings Corporation. For more information, please visit http://www.fortivaretailcredit.com

    About Mor Furniture for Less
    Mor Furniture for Less, established in 1977, is the largest furniture company on the West Coast with 38 stores in 7 states, offering a great selection and guaranteed low prices in all home furnishing categories: bedroom, mattresses, living room, small spaces furniture, and dining furniture. To learn more, visit http://www.morfurniture.com

    Contact:
    Media Relations
    media@atlanticus.com

    For more information:
    http://www.fortivaretailcredit.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Trupanion, Inc. Announces Third Quarter 2024 Earnings Release and Conference Call

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SEATTLE, Oct. 15, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Trupanion, Inc. (Nasdaq: TRUP), a leader in medical insurance for cats and dogs, announced today it will report financial results for its 2024 third quarter after the market closes on Wednesday, October 30, 2024. The company will host a conference call that day beginning shortly after 1:30 p.m. PT / 4:30 p.m. ET.

    A live webcast (including a slide presentation) discussing results, guidance and management observations will be available on Trupanion’s Investor Relations site under Investor Events at http://investors.trupanion.com and will be archived online for 3 months upon completion of the conference call.

    Participants can access the conference call by dialing 1-877-300-8521 (United States) or 1-412-317-6026 (International). A telephonic replay of the call will also be available after the completion of the call, by dialing 1-844-512-2921 (United States) or 1-412-317-6671 (International) and entering the replay pin number: 10192561.

    About Trupanion:

    Trupanion is a leader in medical insurance for cats and dogs throughout the United States, Canada, Europe, Puerto Rico and Australia with over 1,000,000 pets enrolled. For over two decades, Trupanion has given pet owners peace of mind so they can focus on their pet’s recovery, not financial stress. Trupanion is committed to providing pet owners with the highest value in pet medical insurance with unlimited payouts for the life of their pets. With its patented process, Trupanion is the only North American provider with the technology to pay veterinarians directly in seconds at the time of checkout. Trupanion is listed on NASDAQ under the symbol “TRUP”. The company was founded in 2000 and is headquartered in Seattle, WA. Trupanion policies are issued, in the United States, by its wholly-owned insurance entity American Pet Insurance Company and, in Canada, by Accelerant Insurance Company of Canada. Trupanion Australia is a partnership between Trupanion and Hollard Insurance Company. Policies are sold and administered by Trupanion Managers USA, Inc. (CA license No. 0G22803, NPN 9588590). For more information, please visit trupanion.com.

    Contact: 

    Laura Bainbridge, Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications
    Gil Melchior, Director, Investor Relations
    Investor.Relations@trupanion.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: SolarShare Transforms Global Renewable Energy Investment with Blockchain-Powered Solar Panel Ownership

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SALVADOR, Brazil, Oct. 15, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SolarShare is redefining how the world invests in renewable energy by using blockchain technology to tokenize solar farms, enabling global access to clean energy projects. Individuals can now purchase solar panels as Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) and earn passive income from the sale of electricity generated by those panels.

    With an impressive annual dividend projected from operational solar farms, SolarShare is making it easier than ever for people to participate in renewable energy investment while helping to decrease dependence on fossil fuels.

    Operating three solar farms in Xique-Xique, Bahia, Brazil, SolarShare is expanding its reach with an ambitious growth plan. Tokenizing solar panels through NFTs gives people from all walks of life an opportunity to invest in and benefit from solar energy production. Investors receive income in USDT, a US dollar-pegged stablecoin generated by the sale of electricity from these farms.

    “Our mission at SolarShare is to open up solar energy investment to everyone,” said William Campbell, CEO and Founder of SolarShare. “We’ve made it possible for anyone, regardless of where they live, to own a piece of solar energy and benefit from the returns it offers. Whether you’re in Asia, Europe, or North America, you can now contribute to a greener world and earn up to 25% annually.”

    SolarShare’s first farm, Sunrise Solar Farm, is a 110kW facility in the sun-rich Xique-Xique region. It produces around 15,000 kWh per month using over 200 DAH Solar 555W Monocrystalline panels. Two additional farms, Sunny Valley and Helios Fields, contribute a combined output of 30,000 kWh, raising SolarShare’s total energy capacity to 45,000 kWh per month. These farms are just the beginning as the company continues to expand in regions with significant solar potential.

    Throughout the year, each farm runs its operations, generating energy that is sold on the Brazilian energy market. The revenue generated from these sales is converted into USDT and distributed among NFT holders based on the investment tier they belong to. To ensure the integrity of operations, all farms are secured with warranties and insurance coverage to address any potential unforeseen circumstances.

    SolarShare’s NFTs come in different tiers, representing varying levels of ownership. The smallest tier, a Solar Unit, is one-fifth of a solar panel, while the largest, Solar Planet, consists of 940 NFTs, equating to 188 solar panels, or a whole solar farm. Investors earn a percentage of the energy generated by these panels, with the staking of SolarShare’s native cryptocurrency, $SOLAR, enabling higher returns of up to 90% of a panel’s output.

    “We’re giving people the power to invest in something that matters,” added Campbell. “It’s not just about financial returns; it’s about having a real stake in the future of clean energy.”

    Brazil’s high solar irradiation has positioned the country as a major player in solar energy production, with a capacity that has grown from under 2GW in 2017 to over 35GW in 2024. As demand for renewable energy continues to rise, SolarShare presents a timely solution by making solar energy investments accessible on a global scale.

    “Brazil’s solar potential is immense, and we’re excited to be at the frontline of this movement,” said Campbell. “Through our partnership with Versole Energia Solar, we’re delivering high-quality solar projects that not only provide financial returns but also help reduce carbon emissions. It’s a win for investors and for the planet.”

    SolarShare’s model offers both financial and environmental benefits. Investors can expect annual returns of up to 25%, depending on energy prices and production levels. Meanwhile, the company’s commitment to sustainability ensures that funds are directed toward expanding solar energy capacity, helping to address the global climate crisis.

    SolarShare has ambitious plans to expand its operations into new regions with greater solar potential. The company is currently exploring additional farms in Brazil, other Latin American countries, and even Saudi Arabia, aiming to reach a global audience.

    “Solar energy is one of the most scalable solutions to the world’s growing energy needs,” Campbell said. “With support from our investors and partners, we’re committed to growing our platform and making SolarShare the go-to solution for solar energy investments.”

    Investing in SolarShare is simple and open to anyone. Investors can visit the SolarShare platform, purchase an NFT representing solar panel ownership, and earn dividends from the energy generated. The platform’s intuitive dashboard lets users track their energy production, earnings, and environmental impact in real time.

    SolarShare invites you to join the renewable energy revolution today. Purchase your Solar NFT, start earning, and contribute to a more sustainable future.

    Together, we can harness the sun’s power and help save the planet.

    Don’t forget to follow us on X, Discord, and Telegram to stay updated.

    In case of any queries, please contact –
    SolarShare Support
    Marketing & Support Team
    Marketing@SolarShare.io

    About SolarShare:
    SolarShare is a blockchain-powered platform that enables fractional ownership of real-world solar panels. By tokenising solar farms, SolarShare allows individuals to invest in clean energy projects and earn passive income. SolarShare is leading the charge in democratising access to renewable energy investments with a focus on transparency, sustainability, and community-driven growth.

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by sponsor. The statements, views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the content provider. The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities. Please conduct your own research and invest at your own risk.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7bab472c-8f1c-4e48-abc2-234209bdacd0

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ce65aa21-a0bd-4eca-a719-a5a6aa91759f

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/48f98475-7228-470f-9f14-48a1675ea0d4

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Bullish Sentiments High on Gold Trends as Mining Operations Continue to Ramp Up

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PALM BEACH, Fla., Oct. 15, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FN Media Group News Commentary – In an recent article published by Skilliing.com regarding current Gold trends: “From ancient civilizations to modern-day investors, gold has consistently been sought after for its perceived stability and hedge against inflation and economic uncertainty. This enduring appeal has led to significant price movements over the years, with gold prices often mirroring broader economic trends. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for predicting future gold price movements and making informed investment decisions. According to experts, the gold price in October 2024 is expected to be influenced by several key factors. The ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East, are likely to keep gold prices elevated. Additionally, the anticipation of US rate cuts in the third and fourth quarters of 2024 could further boost gold prices. With the current record already at $2,431.85, the next milestone to watch is $2,500 per ounce. The bullish setup of gold’s chart and its leading indicators suggest that gold could move close to the $2,550 area in 2024. This prediction is supported by the recent rally in gold prices, which has already surpassed many predictions for the year. The combination of geopolitical concerns and the potential for rate cuts makes a further rally in gold prices plausible.” Active mining companies in the markets this week include RUA GOLD Inc. (OTCQB: NZAUF) (TSX-V: RUA), Mawson Gold Limited (OTCPK: MWSNF), Founders Metals Inc. (OTCQX: FDMIF), SNOWLINE GOLD CORP (OTCQB: SNWGF) (TSX-V: SGD), Agnico Eagle Mines Limited (NYSE: AEM) (TSX: AEM).

    Skilliing.com added: “In the context of broader economic trends, the gold price prediction for October 2024 is also influenced by the strength of the dollar and the overall economic landscape. As interest rates start to fall, gold prices could hit fresh records. The average price target for gold in the final quarter of 2024 is around $2,175 per ounce, according to JPMorgan Chase & Co. This suggests a continued upward trajectory for gold prices in the latter half of 2024. 2025 Outlook: The outlook for 2025 is more uncertain. Some experts expect gold prices to stabilize around $2,350 per ounce in early 2025, with a potential decline to $2,175 later in the year, depending on the pace of U.S. central bank rate cuts. HSBC predicts a 12% drop in gold prices in 2025 due to rising real interest rates, while other analysts remain bullish, suggesting prices could exceed $3,000. 2030 Outlook: By 2030, some forecasts suggest gold could reach $7,000 per ounce, driven by low real interest rates, rising inflation, and demographic shifts that fuel demand for gold as a secure asset. Central bank demand will likely play a key role in supporting long-term growth.”

    RUA GOLD’s (TSXV:RUA) (OTCQB:NZAUF) Drill Program Intersects Near Surface Gold at The Reefton Project – RUA GOLD Inc. (WKN: A4010V) (“RUA GOLD” or the “Company”) is pleased to provide an update from the drilling campaign underway at the Reefton Project on the South Island of New Zealand.    The Company commenced its near mine drill program on the Murray Creek targets in July. A second drill rig was introduced in September to test the Capleston vein system. These historic mines collectively produced ~700koz of gold at 25.2g/t within a radius of ~20 kilometers.

    Robert Eckford, CEO of RUA GOLD commented: “Our five years of meticulous surface exploration work over the Reefton project is paying dividends from the outset of this drill program. Both of the initial drill holes have confirmed we are in right area and are locating these lodes. The near surface intercepts on Capleston are encouraging and makes for compelling economic ounces, it supports our thesis that the surface veins are continuous past the old workings. Despite the initial drill hole at Murray Creek hitting old workings, it is extremely encouraging that we have identified the dip angle of the Victoria lode and we have even more confidence with the subsequent hole that is underway now, and results from this will be ready in the next few weeks.”

    Capleston – On the second drill rig, which was introduced to test the Capleston vein system, the Company targeted an undeveloped and near-surface vein at the southern end of the two kilometer long historic Capleston project, the highest-grade producer of the Reefton Goldfield historically. Near surface targets lend themselves to early development and are the closest to transportation and infrastructure, providing low-cost operational advantages.

    The first diamond drill hole, DD_REF_043, intersected a 12m zone of quartz-pyrite-arsenopyrite in the hanging wall, with a 1m quartz vein from 31m to 32m @ 3.86 g.t Au.   A legacy drill hole intercepted the southern lode at 33m downhole, with 1m @ 24g/t Au followed by 1m @ 2.5g/t Au1. Mapping has recorded historical waste samples up to 32.0g/t Au in the vicinity, and a strong soil anomaly enveloping the vein (up to 410ppb Au).

    Murray Creek – RUA GOLD reports the completion of the first hole testing the down-dip extension of the Victoria lode, DD_VIC_041, which is being evaluated by the team. This intersected the targeted reef at 344m down hole and encountered historical underground workings over a 4m length. It then exited out to the footwall before drilling on for an additional 20m.

    This confirms that the lode extension is accurate and, with the precise location confirmed, a second hole is underway that is 50m deeper down dip from the initial drill hole. The Company anticipates an intersection into an un-mined portion of the reef at around 350m. Results from this testing will be available in the coming weeks.    CONTINUED… Read this full press release and more news for RUA GOLD at:   https://www.financialnewsmedia.com/news-rua/

    Other recent developments in the mining industry of note include:

    Mawson Gold Limited (OTCPK: MWSNF) recently announced that further to its news releases dated June 10, 2024 and July 30, 2024, Mawson has entered into an arrangement agreement (the “Arrangement Agreement”) with SUA Holdings Ltd. (“SUA”), a newly formed wholly-owned subsidiary of Mawson, pursuant to which the Company proposes to spin-out its uranium assets in Sweden (the “Uranium Assets”) to SUA in consideration for common shares of SUA (“SUA Common Shares”) and distribute 100% of the SUA Common Shares it then holds to the Mawson shareholders on a pro rata basis. As a result, following completion of the Arrangement, the Mawson shareholders (other than any dissenting shareholders) will also become shareholders of SUA and SUA will no longer be a subsidiary of Mawson.

    In connection with the Arrangement, Mawson has subscribed for additional SUA Common Shares for aggregate consideration of $600,000 to provide working capital to SUA. Such additional SUA Common Shares will also be distributed to the Mawson shareholders under the Arrangement.

    Founders Metals Inc. (OTCQX: FDMIF) recently announced that, further to the press release dated October 10, 2024, it has entered into an agreement with B2Gold Corp (“B2Gold”) for a C$12.1 million investment (the “Strategic Investment”) at a price of C$2.75 per common share (each, a “Share”). Together with the previously announced bought deal private placement of C$20M (the “Brokered Offering”), the Company will raise a total of C$32.1 million, fully funding the planned 2025 budget. Upon completion of the Strategic Investment and the Brokered Offering, B2Gold will own 5.0% of the Company’s issued and outstanding common shares on a non-diluted basis.

    Colin Padget, Founders’ President & CEO commented, “We are very pleased with B2Gold’s investment in Founders along with the support and validation it brings to our Antino Gold Project. We look forward to drawing on B2Gold’s experience in exploring for, and developing, world-class mining assets in similar geological environments. This broader financing package leaves Founders well positioned to ramp up exploration at Antino, fully funding our planned 2025 exploration budget and the near-term addition of a fourth diamond drill.”

    SNOWLINE GOLD CORP (OTCQB: SNWGF) (TSX-V: SGD) recently announced additional analytical results from its 2024 Valley deposit drilling campaign on the Rogue Project in Canada’s Yukon Territory alongside updates on its regional activities. Holes V-24-081 and V-24-084 returned strong, consistent gold grades from near-surface along the southwestern edge of the Valley deposit, outperforming the model used for the Company’s initial mineral resource estimate (MRE) earlier this year. In addition, Snowline has completed the first phase of a reclamation program at the Plata mining camp near the Rogue Project, organizing and inventorying debris and abandoned equipment from historical mining activities in the region for future demobilisation. The Company awaits analytical results from the majority of its 2024 exploration campaign, including >24,600 m of drilling in 44 holes across 5 different targets.

    “It is a testament to the consistency of mineralization at Valley that results like today’s have become almost commonplace,” said Scott Berdahl, CEO & Director of Snowline. “Nonetheless, they further demonstrate the strength of the system near surface, and key holes V-24-081 and V-24-084 outperform our model along the southwest margin of the deposit.

    Agnico Eagle Mines Limited (NYSE: AEM) (TSX: AEM) recently announced that it has filed an updated technical report for the Detour Lake mine in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

    The technical report is available on SEDAR+ (http://www.sedarplus.ca) and on the Company’s website (http://www.agnicoeagle.com).   Agnico Eagle is a Canadian based and led senior gold mining company and the third largest gold producer in the world, producing precious metals from operations in Canada, Australia, Finland and Mexico.

    About FN Media Group:

    At FN Media Group, via our top-rated online news portal at http://www.financialnewsmedia.com, we are one of the very few select firms providing top tier one syndicated news distribution, targeted ticker tag press releases and stock market news coverage for today’s emerging companies. #pressrelease #tickertaggingpressreleases

    Follow us on Facebook to receive the latest news updates: https://www.facebook.com/financialnewsmedia

    Follow us on Twitter for real time Market News: https://twitter.com/FNMgroup

    Follow us on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/financialnewsmedia/

    DISCLAIMER:  FN Media Group LLC (FNM), which owns and operates FinancialNewsMedia.com and MarketNewsUpdates.com, is a third party publisher and news dissemination service provider, which disseminates electronic information through multiple online media channels.  FNM is NOT affiliated in any manner with any company mentioned herein.  FNM and its affiliated companies are a news dissemination solutions provider and are NOT a registered broker/dealer/analyst/adviser, holds no investment licenses and may NOT sell, offer to sell or offer to buy any security.  FNM’s market updates, news alerts and corporate profiles are NOT a solicitation or recommendation to buy, sell or hold securities.  The material in this release is intended to be strictly informational and is NEVER to be construed or interpreted as research material.  All readers are strongly urged to perform research and due diligence on their own and consult a licensed financial professional before considering any level of investing in stocks.  All material included herein is republished content and details which were previously disseminated by the companies mentioned in this release.  FNM is not liable for any investment decisions by its readers or subscribers.  Investors are cautioned that they may lose all or a portion of their investment when investing in stocks.  For current services performed FNM was compensated forty nine hundred dollars for news coverage of the current press releases issued by RUA GOLD Inc. by a non-affiliated third party.  FNM HOLDS NO SHARES OF ANY COMPANY NAMED IN THIS RELEASE.

    This release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and such forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. “Forward-looking statements” describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies and are generally preceded by words such as “may”, “future”, “plan” or “planned”, “will” or “should”, “expected,” “anticipates”, “draft”, “eventually” or “projected”. You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, and other risks identified in a company’s annual report on Form 10-K or 10-KSB and other filings made by such company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. You should consider these factors in evaluating the forward-looking statements included herein, and not place undue reliance on such statements. The forward-looking statements in this release are made as of the date hereof and FNM undertakes no obligation to update such statements.

    Contact Information:

    Media Contact
    email: editor@financialnewsmedia.com
    +1(561)325-8757 

    SOURCE: FN Media Group

    The MIL Network –