NewzIntel.com

Category: Machine Learning

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Blockchain: new online training for businesses

    MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

    Source: Switzerland – Canton Government of Geneva in French

    The State of Geneva is launching a new online training course for companies to enable them to better understand and identify blockchain opportunities. This new training course complements existing courses on artificial intelligence, cyber risks and RNE. These online courses are freely accessible and free of charge.

    This new online course around the blockchain presents the functioning of this technology, its usefulness and its potential applications within a company, particularly in the context of cryptocurrencies but also beyond.

    It is part of the training catalogue offered by the Department of Economy and Employment (DEE). These online courses include videos and testimonials in an offbeat tone in order to stimulate reflection and make the material easily accessible to everyone. The content of these training courses was developed by the cantonal office of economy and innovation (OCEI) with the help of specialists from the academic world. It is essential for Geneva companies to seize the opportunities offered by the evolution of digital technology in order to better understand the risks and potential of these technologies.

    These new online courses, also called MOOCs – “Massive Open Online Course” – last 25 minutes each.

    To access training modules and other content:

    Online training: Other resources:

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI USA: Arrington Introduces Legislation to Counter Unfair Foreign Trade Practices

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jodey Arrington (TX-19)

    Washington, D.C. – House Budget Committee Chairman Jodey Arrington (TX-19) introduced H.R. 9724 – the Axing Nonmarket Tariff Evasion (ANTE) Act – legislation to defend the American economy from nonmarket entities using third countries to avoid U.S. trade enforcement.

    “For far too long, adversaries like China have cheated the American economy and cost the U.S. millions of jobs by utilizing unfair trade practices. President Trump took decisive action to curb this, but more still needs to be done,” said Chairman Arrington. “The Axing Non-Market Tariff Evasion (ANTE) Act would proactively stop foreign, state-owned businesses from using third countries as a backdoor to evade U.S. tariffs and bolster the American economy in the process.”

    “We appreciate Rep. Arrington’s leadership in introducing the Axing Non-Market Tariff Evasion Act. A strong domestic steel industry is necessary to support any of our country’s goals. China’s unfair trade practices are the number one threat to robust domestic production,” said Philip K. Bell, President, Steel Manufacturers Association. “Due to China’s Belt and Road Initiative, our members constantly play Whac-A-Mole attempting to combat dumping and trade cheating, as China moves production around the globe whenever the U.S. implements any action to level the playing field. This legislation provides our government tools to be more proactive in their fight against unfair trade practices. We look forward to working with you and your colleagues to support American workers and ensure our government can rapidly react to constantly evolving threats to our economy.” 

    “Chinese companies have become experts at tariff evasion, finding ways around U.S. tariffs in place to support manufacturing in America,” said James Warren, Forging Industry Association. “The Axing Nonmarket Tariff Evasion (ANTE) Act will proactively target tariff evasion as China uses third-party countries to undermine American manufacturing. It is time our manufacturers stop playing defense, this bill will proactively give policymakers the tools they need to strengthen the manufacturing industrial base.” 

    Background:

    • Highly subsidized state-owned enterprises like SAIC Motor controlled by non-market economies like China are setting up operations in other countries not subject to trade enforcement tariffs to export to the United States and avoid duties. This tariff evasion threatens American businesses, which risk losing market demand to entities that don’t play by the rules. 
    • While the U.S. has trade enforcement tools that address unfair nonmarket practices, there’s no trade law that addresses tariff evasion in a proactive and targeted manner. The Axing Non-Market Tariff Evasion (ANTE) Act would fill this void by amending Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 to require the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) to investigate whether a planned investment from a nonmarket economy, subject to Section 301 tariffs, into a third country, not subject to Section 301 tariffs, is being established to export to the U.S. and evade these tariffs.
    • If USITC determines that tariff evasion is occurring, it must notify the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) or Congress, which have the ability to apply the Section 301 tariff on the nonmarket economy to the specific third country investment, even before the investment goes into operation.
    • The ANTE Act would allow the U.S. to proactively prevent nonmarket entities from using investments in third countries as a backdoor to avoid U.S. trade enforcement and defend American businesses against bad actors that seek to evade U.S. law.

    Broad Support:

    • In addition to the Steel Manufacturers Association and the Forging Industry Association, the following groups have endorsed Rep. Arrington’s ANTE Act:
      • National Council of Textile Organizations
      • National Tooling and Machining Association
      • American Mold Builders Association
      • Precision Metalforming Association

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Latta, ClearPath Op-Ed on the Importance of Investing in Domestic Nuclear Energy Production

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bob Latta (R-Bowling Green Ohio)

    Congressman Bob Latta (R-OH5) and ClearPath CEO Jeremy Harrell penned a joint op-ed in the Washington Examiner outlining the importance of investing in domestic nuclear energy production.

    Read an excerpt of the op-ed below, or click here to read the piece in its entirety.

    “The United States is at the crossroads of its energy future. Homeowners and business owners are struggling to keep up with increased energy bills, and power companies are trying to provide enough baseload energy to heat, cool, and light homes while fueling the rise of artificial intelligence and data centers.

    “There’s no question that to meet Americans’ growing energy demands, the U.S. must invest in reliable, affordable, and clean energy. The solution lies with an all-of-the-above strategy that includes all forms of energy generation, including fossil fuels, renewables, and, most importantly, nuclear power…”

    “…As leaders working toward energy solutions, we strongly believe that America must lead the world in nuclear energy development. We refuse to sit back and cede energy leadership to other nations, which is why we will continue working together to invest in nuclear energy to establish U.S. energy dominance.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Joint Press Statement for the 25th Korea-U.S. Integrated Defense Dialogue

    Source: United States Department of Defense

    The Republic of Korea (ROK) Ministry of National Defense (MND) and the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) held the 25th Korea-U.S. Integrated Defense Dialogue (KIDD) from September23-24, 2024, in Seoul.

    Deputy Minister (DEPMIN) for National Defense Policy, Mr. Cho Chang Lae, led the ROK delegation. Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense (DASD) for East Asia, Mr. Anka Lee, led the U.S. delegation. Key senior ROK and U.S. defense and foreign affairs officials also participated in the dialogue.

    Both sides had an in-depth discussion focusing on the three pillars of the “Defense Vision of the U.S.-ROK Alliance”: enhancing extended deterrence efforts against the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), modernizing Alliance capabilities based on science and technology cooperation, and strengthening solidarity and regional security cooperation with like-minded partners. They acknowledged the importance of faithfully implementing the Defense Vision to strengthen the U.S.-ROK Alliance, and reviewed implementation of specific tasks. In addition, the two sides noted progress to align U.S.-ROK bilateral defense mechanisms under the Security Consultative Meeting (SCM) to effectively and efficiently support strengthening the Alliance through the implementation of the Defense Vision, and pledged to continue assessing them.

    The two sides reaffirmed their common goal of the complete denuclearization of the DPRK, and concurred on the importance of the Alliance’s close coordination to maintain a vigilant combined defense posture. Both sides exchanged views on ever-changing DPRK threats, as well as its advancing nuclear and missile capabilities, which are destabilizing the Korean Peninsula and the region. Both sides strongly condemned DPRK provocations and threats that undermine regional peace and stability, including its diversification of nuclear delivery systems and continuing space launch attempts.

    Both sides commended the Alliance’s efforts to enhance extended deterrence in an integrated manner since President Biden and President Yoon’s April 2023 Washington Declaration and committed to continue strengthening extended deterrence cooperation through the work of the Nuclear Consultative Group.

    The United States reaffirmed its enduring and ironclad commitment to the defense of the ROK, utilizing the full range of U.S. defense capabilities – including nuclear, conventional, missile defense, and advanced non-nuclear capabilities – and reiterated that any nuclear attack by the DPRK against the United States or its Allies and partners is unacceptable and will result in the end of the Kim regime. Both sides affirmed that the full capabilities of the two countries would contribute to the Alliance’s combined defense posture.

    Both sides reviewed the progress from a joint study of the Alliance’s comprehensive counter-missile strategy and also discussed future enhancements in information sharing through the U.S. Shared Early Warning System (SEWS) to respond to DPRK’s advancing missile threats. The two sides pledged to continue developing response capabilities and posture through the Counter-Missile Working Group (CMWG).

    The two sides expressed grave concern over the DPRK’s continuing sending of filth balloons. They also recognized the need for closely coordinated responses to intensifying DPRK’s gray zone provocations, such as cyber and electromagnetic attacks, and threats in the vicinity of the Northwest Islands and Northern Limit Line (NLL). Both sides noted that the NLL has been an effective means of separating military forces and preventing military tension over the past 70 years, and the ROK side urged the DPRK to accept the practical value of, and abide by, the NLL.

    The two sides shared assessments of the recent ULCHI FREEDOM SHIELD 24 (UFS 24) exercise, which included realistic threats such as DPRK’s advancing nuclear and missile threats, GPS jamming and cyber attacks. They agreed that UFS further enhanced the Alliance’s crisis management and strengthened deterrence and defense capabilities. In addition, they assessed that combined field training exercises (FTX), which were more extensive than the past year in land, maritime and air domains, enhanced interoperability and combined capabilities to execute Alliance operations as well as demonstrated a robust ability to defend the ROK. Based on these achievements, both sides agreed to strengthen combined exercises and trainings in line with rapidly changing security environment of the Korean Peninsula.

    The two delegations also discussed the danger of DPRK-Russian military cooperation following the signing of the “Treaty on Comprehensive Strategic Partnership” between Russia and the DPRK. In particular, they expressed grave concern over illegal arms trade and transfer of high-technology between Russia and the DPRK that violate United Nations Security Council resolutions (UNSCRs), and pledged to respond by working closely together with the international community. The two sides reaffirmed the importance of full implementation of UNSCRs by the entire international community, including China and Russia, and concurred that such endeavors back the complete denuclearization of the DPRK.

    The ROK and United States agreed to continue strengthening efforts made to date for further modernizing Alliance capabilities and evolving based on science and technology cooperation. The two delegations applauded the progress establishing a Defense Science and Technology Executive Committee under the SCM, and pledged to expedite efforts for practical cooperation under this consultative body within the year. In addition, based on such cooperation, they shared the understanding that areas of cooperation need to be expanded further, including artificial intelligence, autonomous technology, crewed-uncrewed teaming, and next-generation communications. In that vein, both sides consulted on a ROK proposal to hold a joint ROK-U.S. Defense Science and Technology Conference from the year 2025.

    The two sides also pledged to continue expanding cooperative measures to enhance the defense industrial base and interoperability of both the United States and the ROK. The delegations agreed that cooperative efforts for a Regional Sustainment Framework being developed by the Defense Department would strengthen posture and capabilities of the Alliance. As such, they highly appreciated a ROK’s participation in the Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) pilot project, in an area of Air Force’s aviation maintenance, and pledged to continue discussions for expanding cooperation into the Army aviation and naval vessels. The two sides also welcomed the recent U.S. Navy contract with ROK shipyards for the conduct of MRO for U.S. vessels. In addition, both sides recognized the need to provide reciprocal market access to deepen defense cooperation and enhance supply chain resiliency, and pledged to advance progress on a Reciprocal Defense Procurement Agreement (RDP-A).

    Both sides commended the work of the Space Cooperation Working Group (SCWG), including ROK’s participation in the Joint Commercial Operations (JCO) led by the U.S. Space Force. They emphasized that such cooperation contributes to enhancing interoperability and information sharing for space domain awareness of the Alliance and strengthens joint response capabilities against increasing space threats. Furthermore, the two sides welcomed the work of the Cyber Cooperation Working Group (CCWG), including the Cyber Alliance and Cyber Flag exercise.

    The two sides reviewed the progress on the Conditions-based OPCON Transition Plan (COTP) agreed upon by the ROK and the United States through Conditions-based OPCON Transition Working Group (COTWG). They exchanged views on this year’s bilateral evaluation on the capabilities and systems required for OPCON transition, pledged to pursue OPCON transition in a systematic and stable manner, and reaffirmed the two nations’ commitment to strengthening combined defense posture of the Alliance.

    DEPMIN Cho and DASD Lee also reviewed the regional and global security environments and pledged to deepen cooperation with like-minded countries to achieve shared security goals. They acknowledged that the 2nd ROK-UNC Member States Defense Ministerial Meeting, which was held in Seoul in early September reaffirmed the commitment and resolve of the UNC Member States to peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula. They reviewed the work of the Regional Cooperation Working Group (RCWG) aimed at enhancing peace and stability in the region, and pledged to strengthen cooperative efforts based on the respective Indo-Pacific strategy of both countries. In that vein, they closely discussed measures for regional cooperation to pursue expanded cooperation with the ASEAN members and Pacific Islands Countries, and agreed to report the outcomes of the discussions at the 56th SCM.

    In addition, both sides concurred that ROK-U.S.-Japan security cooperation should continue to be strengthened to achieve shared security goals on the Korean Peninsula and in the Indo-Pacific region. They pledged to intensify cooperation to respond to regional security landscape based on the Trilateral Security Cooperation Framework (TSCF), including high-level policy consultations, information sharing, and trilateral multi-domain exercises. To this end, the two sides resolved to continue efforts for the implementation of cooperative tasks agreed through the Defense Trilateral Talks (DTT) held in early September.

    DEPMIN Cho and DASD Lee agreed that the 25th KIDD reaffirmed a robust solidarity of the ROK-U.S. Alliance and provided guidance to strengthen the Alliance’s cooperation in accordance with the Defense Vision of the U.S.-ROK Alliance. Based on these outcomes of the Alliance’s cooperation, the two sides pledged to continue efforts to achieve meaningful progress at the 56th SCM, to be hosted in late 2024.

    On the occasion of this meeting, both sides visited a General Outpost along the central front, reviewing increasing DPRK military activities in the vicinity of the border region and assessing our response. They expressed appreciation to service members of the ROK and the U.S. for maintaining an overwhelming combined defense posture to respond to any DPRK provocations.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Form 8.3 – AXA INVESTMENT MANAGERS: Segro plc

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

    PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
    A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
    Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1.        KEY INFORMATION

    (a)   Full name of discloser: AXA Investment Managers S.A.
    (b)   Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
            The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		  
    (c)   Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
            Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 SEGRO plc
    (d)   If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:  
    (e)   Date position held/dealing undertaken:
            For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 23 September 2024
    (f)   In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
            If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 YES
    Tritax EuroBox plc

    2.        POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.

    (a)      Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)

    Class of relevant security: 10p ordinary
      Interests Short positions
      Number % Number %
    (1)   Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 13,625,655 1.01    
    (2)   Cash-settled derivatives:        
    (3)   Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        
    TOTAL:
          AXA Investment Managers does not have discretion regarding voting decisions in respect of 5,859,925 shares that are included in this total.    		 13,625,655 1.01    

    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

    Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

    (b)      Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)

    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:  
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:  

    3.        DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

    The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit
    10p ordinary Purchase 240 GBP 8.83

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. CFD    		 Nature of dealing
    e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position    		 Number of reference securities Price per unit
             

    (c)        Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)

    (i)        Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type
    e.g. American, European etc.    		 Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
                   

    (ii)        Exercise

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. call option    		 Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit
             

    (d)        Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)

    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing
    e.g. subscription, conversion    		 Details Price per unit (if applicable)
           

    4.        OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”
    None

    (b)        Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives

    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i)   the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii)   the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”
    None

    (c)        Attachments

    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO
    Date of disclosure: 24 September 2024
    Contact name: Sabrina AID
    Telephone number*: +33 1 44 45 58 79

    Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

    The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

    *If the discloser is a natural person, a telephone number does not need to be included, provided contact information has been provided to the Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit.

    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Secretary-General’s remarks at the Opening of the General Debate of the Seventy-ninth Session of the General Assembly [as delivered]

    Source: United Nations – English

    r. President of the General Assembly,

    Excellencies,

    Ladies and gentlemen,

    Our world is in a whirlwind.

    We are in an era of epic transformation – facing challenges unlike any we have ever seen – challenges that demand global solutions.

    Yet geo-political divisions keep deepening. The planet keeps heating.

    Wars rage with no clue how they will end.

    And nuclear posturing and new weapons cast a dark shadow.

    We are edging towards the unimaginable – a powder keg that risks engulfing the world.

    Meanwhile, 2024 is the year that half of humanity goes to the polls – and all of humanity will be affected.

    I stand before you in this whirlwind convinced of two overriding truths.

    First, the state of our world is unsustainable.

    We can’t go on like this.

    And second, the challenges we face are solvable.

    But that requires us to make sure the mechanisms of international problem-solving actually solve problems.

    The Summit of the Future was a first step, but we have a long way to go.

    Getting there requires confronting three major drivers of unsustainability.

    A world of impunity – where violations and abuses threaten the very foundation of international law and the UN Charter.

    A world of inequality – where injustices and grievances threaten to undermine countries or even push them over the edge.

    And a world of uncertainty – where unmanaged global risks threaten our future in unknowable ways.

    These worlds of impunity, inequality and uncertainty are connected and colliding.

    Excellencies,

    The level of impunity in the world is politically indefensible and morally intolerable.

    Today, a growing number of governments and others feel entitled to a “get out of jail free” card.

    They can trample international law.

    They can violate the United Nations Charter.

    They can turn a blind eye to international human rights conventions or the decisions of international courts.

    They can thumb their nose at international humanitarian law.

    They can invade another country, lay waste to whole societies, or utterly disregard the welfare of their own people.

    And nothing will happen.

    We see this age of impunity everywhere — in the Middle East, in the heart of Europe, in the Horn of Africa, and beyond.

    The war in Ukraine is spreading with no signs of letting up.

    Civilians are paying the price – in rising death tolls and shattered lives and communities.

    It is time for a just peace based on the UN Charter, on international law and on UN resolutions.

    Meanwhile, Gaza is a non-stop nightmare that threatens to take the entire region with it.

    Look no further than Lebanon.

    We should all be alarmed by the escalation. 

    Lebanon is at the brink. 

    The people of Lebanon – the people of Israel – and the people of the world — cannot afford Lebanon to become another Gaza.

    Let’s be clear.

    Nothing can justify the abhorrent acts of terror committed by Hamas on October 7th, or the taking of hostages – both of which I have repeatedly condemned.

    And nothing can justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people.

    The speed and scale of the killing and destruction in Gaza are unlike anything in my years as Secretary-General.

    More than 200 of our own staff have been killed, many with their families.

    And yet the women and men of the United Nations continue to deliver humanitarian aid.

    I know you join me in paying a special tribute to UNRWA and to all humanitarians in Gaza.

    The international community must mobilize for an immediate ceasefire, the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, and the beginning of an irreversible process towards a two-State solution.

    For those who go on undermining that goal with more settlements, more landgrabs, more incitement — I ask:

    What is the alternative?

    How could the world accept a one-state future in which a large a large number of Palestinians would be included without any freedom, rights or dignity?

    In Sudan, a brutal power struggle has unleashed horrific violence — including widespread rape and sexual assaults.

    A humanitarian catastrophe is unfolding as famine spreads.  Yet outside powers continue to interfere with no unified approach to finding peace.

    In the Sahel, the dramatic and rapid expansion of the terrorist threat requires a joint approach rooted in solidarity – but regional and international cooperation have broken down.

    From Myanmar to the Democratic Republic of the Congo to Haiti to Yemen and beyond – we continue to see appalling levels of violence and human suffering in the face of a chronic failure to find solutions.

    Meanwhile our peacekeeping missions are too often operating in areas where simply there is no peace to keep.

    Instability in many places around the world is a by-product of instability in power relations and geo-political divides.

    For all its perils, the Cold War had rules.

    There were hot lines, red lines and guard rails.

    It can feel as though we don’t have that today.

    Nor do we have a unipolar world.

    We are moving to a multipolar world, but we are not there yet.

    We are in a purgatory of polarity.

    And in this purgatory, more and more countries are filling the spaces of geopolitical divides, doing whatever they want with no accountability.

    That is why it is more important than ever to reaffirm the Charter, to respect international law, to support and implement decisions of international courts, and to reinforce human rights in the world.

    Anywhere and everywhere.

    Excellences, Mesdames et Messieurs,
     
    L’augmentation des inégalités est un deuxième facteur de l’insoutenabilité et une tache sur notre conscience collective.
     
    L’inégalité n’est pas une question technique ou bureaucratique.
     
    Au fond, l’inégalité est une question de pouvoir, aux racines historiques.
     
    Les conflits, les bouleversements climatiques et la crise du coût de la vie étendent ces racines historiques plus profondément encore.
     
    Dans le même temps, le monde peine encore à se relever de la flambée des inégalités engendrée par la pandémie.
     
    Si l’on regarde les 75 pays les plus pauvres du monde, un tiers d’entre eux se trouve aujourd’hui dans une situation pire qu’il y a cinq ans.
     
    Au cours de la même période, les cinq hommes les plus riches de la planète ont plus que doublé leurs fortunes.
     
    Et un pour cent des habitants de la planète détient 43 % de l’ensemble des avoirs financiers mondiaux.
     
    Au niveau national, certains gouvernements décuplent les inégalités en accordant des cadeaux fiscaux massifs aux entreprises et aux ultra-riches — au détriment des investissements dans la santé, l’éducation et la protection sociale.
     
    Et personne n’est plus lésé que les femmes et les filles du monde entier.
     
    Excellences,
     
    La discrimination et les abus généralisés fondés sur le genre constituent l’inégalité la plus répandue dans toutes les sociétés.
     
    Chaque jour, il semble que nous soyons confrontés à de nouveaux cas révoltants de féminicides, de violences fondées sur le genre et de viols collectifs – en temps de paix comme en tant qu’arme de guerre.
     
    Dans certains pays, les lois sont utilisées pour menacer la santé et les droits reproductifs.
     
    Et en Afghanistan, les lois sont utilisées pour entériner l’oppression systématique des femmes et des filles.
     
    Et je suis désolé de constater que, malgré des années de beaux discours, l’inégalité de genre se manifesteet je vous demande pardon de le dire, elle se manifeste aujourd’hui encore, pleinement dans cette enceinte.
     
    Moins de 10 pour cent des intervenants au Débat général de cette semaine sont des femmes.
     
    C’est inacceptable, surtout quand on sait que l’égalité entre les femmes et les hommes contribue à la paix, au développement durable, à l’action climatique et bien plus encore.
     
    C’est précisément pour cela nous avons pris des mesures spécifiques pour atteindre la parité hommes-femmes parmi les hauts responsables de l’Organisation des Nations Unies,objectif qui est déjà complété.
     
    C’est faisable.
     
    J’exhorte les institutions politiques et économiques du monde dominées par les hommes à le faire aussi.
     
    Excellences,
     
    Les inégalités mondiales se reflètent et se renforcent jusque dans nos propres organisations internationales.
     
    Le Conseil de sécurité des Nations Unies a été conçu par les vainqueurs de la Seconde Guerre mondiale.
     
    À l’époque, la majeure partie du continent africain était encore sous domination coloniale.
     
    À ce jour, l’Afrique n’a toujours aucun siège permanent au sein de la principale instance de paix du monde.
     
    Un changement s’impose.
     
    Il en va de même pour l’architecture financière mondiale, mise en place il y a 80 ans.
     
    Je félicite les dirigeants de la Banque mondiale et du Fonds monétaire international pour les mesures importantes qu’ils ont entreprises.
     
    Mais comme le souligne le Pacte pour l’avenir, la lutte contre les inégalités exige une accélération de la réforme de l’architecture financière internationale.
     
    Au cours des huit dernières décennies, l’économie mondiale s’est développée et transformée.
     
    Les institutions de Bretton Woods n’ont pas suivi le rythme.
     
    Elles ne sont plus en mesure de fournir un filet de sécurité mondial, ni d’offrir aux pays en développement le niveau de soutien dont ils ont tant besoin.
     
    Dans les pays les plus pauvres du monde, le coût des intérêts de la dette dépasse, en moyenne, le coût des investissements dans l’éducation, la santé et les infrastructures publiques réunis.
     
    Et à l’échelle du monde, plus de 80 % des cibles des Objectifs de développement durable ne sont pas en bonne voie.
    Excelencias,

    Volver al camino correcto requiere un aumento de financiamiento para la Agenda 2030 y el Acuerdo de París.

    Esto implica que los países del G20 lideren un Estímulo para los Objetivos de Desarrollo Sostenible de 500.000 millones de dólares al año.

    Implica reformas para aumentar sustancialmente la capacidad de préstamo de los Bancos Multilaterales de Desarrollo – y permitirles ampliar masivamente la financiación asequible a largo plazo para el clima y el desarrollo.

    Implica ampliar la financiación de contingencia mediante el reciclaje de los Derechos Especiales de Giro.

    E implica promover una reestructuración de la deuda a largo plazo.

    Excelencias,

    No me hago ilusiones sobre las barreras a la reforma del sistema multilateral.

    Los que tienen poder político y económico, o y los que creen tenerlo, son siempre reacios al cambio.

    Pero el status quo ya está agotando su poder.

    Sin reformas, la fragmentación es inevitable, y las instituciones globales perderán legitimidad, credibilidad y eficacia.

    Excellencies,

    The third driver of our unsustainable world is uncertainty.

    The ground is shifting under our feet.

    Anxiety levels are off the charts.

    And young people, in particular, are counting on us and seeking solutions.

    Uncertainty is compounded by two existential threats – the climate crisis and the rapid advance of technology — in particular, Artificial Intelligence.

    Excellencies,

    We are in a climate meltdown.

    Extreme temperatures, raging fires, droughts, and epic floods are not natural disasters.

    They are human disasters — increasingly fueled by fossil fuels.

    No country is spared. But the poorest and most vulnerable are hardest hit.

    Climate hazards are blowing a hole through the budgets of many African countries, costing up to five per cent of GDP – every year.

    And this is just the start.

    We are on course to careen past the global limit of a 1.5 degree temperature rise.

    But as the problem gets worse, solutions are getting better.

    Renewable prices are plummeting, roll-out is accelerating, and lives are being transformed by affordable, accessible clean energy.

    Renewables don’t just generate power. They generate jobs, wealth, energy security and a path out of poverty for millions.

    But developing countries cannot be plundered in that journey.

    Our Panel on Critical Minerals has recommended fair and sustainable ways to meet global demand for these resources, which are essential to the renewables revolution.

    Excellencies,

    A future without fossil fuels is certain.  A fair and fast transition is not.

    That is in your hands.

    By next year, every country must produce an ambitious new national climate action plan – or Nationally Determined Contributions.

    These must bring national energy strategies, sustainable development priorities, and climate ambitions together.

    They must align with the 1.5 degree limit, cover the whole economy, and contribute to every one of the COP28 energy transition targets.

    An International Energy Agency report released today breaks this down.

    By 2035, on average, advanced economies must slash energy emissions 80 per cent, and emerging markets 65 per cent.

    The G20 is responsible for 80 per cent of total emissions.

    They must lead the charge – keeping with the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities in the light of different national circumstances.

    But this must be a joint effort — pooling resources, scientific capacities and proven and affordable technologies for all to be able to reach those targets.

    I’m honoured to be working closely with President Lula of Brazil – who is both G20 Chair and COP30 host – to secure maximum ambition, acceleration and cooperation. We just met for that purpose.

    Finance is essential.

    COP29 is around the corner.

    It must deliver a significant new finance goal.

    We also need a Loss and Damage Fund that meets the scale of the challenge – and developed countries meeting their adaptation finance promises.

    And we must finally flip the script on a crazy situation:

    We continue to reward polluters to wreck our planet.

    The fossil fuel industry continues to pocket massive profits and subsidies, while everyday people bear the costs of climate catastrophe – from rising insurance premiums to lost livelihoods.

    I call on G20 countries to shift money from fossil fuel subsidies and investments to a just energy transition;

    To put an effective price on carbon;

    And to implement new and innovative sources of financing – including solidarity levies on fossil fuel extraction – through legally-binding, transparent mechanisms.

    All by next year and this taking into account that those who shoulder the blame must foot the bill.

    Polluters must pay.

    Excellencies,

    The rapid rise of new technologies poses another unpredictable existential risk.

    Artificial Intelligence will change virtually everything we know — from work, education and communication, to culture and politics.

    We know AI is rapidly advancing, but where is it taking us:

    To more freedom – or more conflict?

    To a more sustainable world – or greater inequality?

    To being better informed – or easier to manipulate?

    A handful of companies and even individuals have already amassed enormous power over the development of AI – with little accountability or oversight for the moment.

    Without a global approach to its management, artificial intelligence could lead to artificial divisions across the board – a Great Fracture with two internets, two markets, two economies – with every country forced to pick a side, and enormous consequences for all.

    The United Nations is the universal platform for dialogue and consensus.

    It is uniquely placed to promote cooperation on AI – based on the values of the Charter and international law.

    The global debate happens here, or it does not happen.

    I welcome important first steps.

    Two resolutions in the General Assembly, the Global Digital Compact, and the recommendations of the High-Level Body on AI can lay the foundations for inclusive governance of AI.

    Let’s move forward together to make AI a force for good.

    Excellencies,

    Nothing lasts forever.

    But a feature of human life is that it appears otherwise.

    The current order always feels fixed.

    Until it is not.
     
    Across human history, we see empires rising and falling; old certainties crumbling; tectonic shifts in global affairs.
     
    Today our course is unsustainable.

    It is in all our interests to manage the epic transformations underway; to choose the future we want and to guide our world towards it.

    Many have said that the differences and divisions today are just too great.

    That it is impossible for us to come together for the common good.

    You proved that is not true.

    The Summit of the Future showed that with a spirit of dialogue and compromise, we can join forces to steer our world to a more sustainable path.

    It is not the end.

    It is a start of a journey, a compass in the whirlwind.

    Let’s keep going.

    Let’s move our world towards less impunity and more accountability …. less inequality and more justice … less uncertainty and more opportunity.

    The people of the world are looking to us – and succeeding generations will look back on us.

    Let them find us on the side of the United Nations Charter … on the side of our shared values and principles … and on the right side of history.

    I thank you.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Microsoft Trustworthy AI: Unlocking human potential starts with trust

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Microsoft Trustworthy AI: Unlocking human potential starts with trust

    YouTube Video

    As AI advances, we all have a role to play to unlock AI’s positive impact for organizations and communities around the world. That’s why we’re focused on helping customers use and build AI that is trustworthy, meaning AI that is secure, safe and private.

    At Microsoft, we have commitments to ensure Trustworthy AI and are building industry-leading supporting technology. Our commitments and capabilities go hand in hand to make sure our customers and developers are protected at every layer.

    Building on our commitments, today we are announcing new product capabilities to strengthen the security, safety and privacy of AI systems.

    Security. Security is our top priority at Microsoft, and our expanded Secure Future Initiative (SFI) underscores the company-wide commitments and the responsibility we feel to make our customers more secure. This week we announced our first SFI Progress Report, highlighting updates spanning culture, governance, technology and operations. This delivers on our pledge to prioritize security above all else and is guided by three principles: secure by design, secure by default and secure operations. In addition to our first party offerings, Microsoft Defender and Purview, our AI services come with foundational security controls, such as built-in functions to help prevent prompt injections and copyright violations. Building on those, today we’re announcing two new capabilities:

    • Evaluations in Azure AI Studio to support proactive risk assessments.
    • Microsoft 365 Copilot will provide transparency into web queries to help admins and users better understand how web search enhances the Copilot response. Coming soon.

    Our security capabilities are already being used by customers. Cummins, a 105-year-old company known for its engine manufacturing and development of clean energy technologies, turned to Microsoft Purview to strengthen their data security and governance by automating the classification, tagging and labeling of data. EPAM Systems, a software engineering and business consulting company, deployed Microsoft 365 Copilot for 300 users because of the data protection they get from Microsoft. J.T. Sodano, Senior Director of IT, shared that “we were a lot more confident with Copilot for Microsoft 365, compared to other large language models (LLMs), because we know that the same information and data protection policies that we’ve configured in Microsoft Purview apply to Copilot.”

    Safety. Inclusive of both security and privacy, Microsoft’s broader Responsible AI principles, established in 2018, continue to guide how we build and deploy AI safely across the company. In practice this means properly building, testing and monitoring systems to avoid undesirable behaviors, such as harmful content, bias, misuse and other unintended risks. Over the years, we have made significant investments in building out the necessary governance structure, policies, tools and processes to uphold these principles and build and deploy AI safely. At Microsoft, we are committed to sharing our learnings on this journey of upholding our Responsible AI principles with our customers. We use our own best practices and learnings to provide people and organizations with capabilities and tools to build AI applications that share the same high standards we strive for.

    Today, we are sharing new capabilities to help customers pursue the benefits of AI while mitigating the risks:

    • A Correction capability in Microsoft Azure AI Content Safety’s Groundedness detection feature that helps fix hallucination issues in real time before users see them.
    • Embedded Content Safety, which allows customers to embed Azure AI Content Safety on devices. This is important for on-device scenarios where cloud connectivity might be intermittent or unavailable.
    • New evaluations in Azure AI Studio to help customers assess the quality and relevancy of outputs and how often their AI application outputs protected material.
    • Protected Material Detection for Code is now in preview in Azure AI Content Safety to help detect pre-existing content and code. This feature helps developers explore public source code in GitHub repositories, fostering collaboration and transparency, while enabling more informed coding decisions.

    It’s amazing to see how customers across industries are already using Microsoft solutions to build more secure and trustworthy AI applications. For example, Unity, a platform for 3D games, used Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service to build Muse Chat, an AI assistant that makes game development easier. Muse Chat uses content-filtering models in Azure AI Content Safety to ensure responsible use of the software. Additionally, ASOS, a UK-based fashion retailer with nearly 900 brand partners, used the same built-in content filters in Azure AI Content Safety to support top-quality interactions through an AI app that helps customers find new looks.

    We’re seeing the impact in the education space too. New York City Public Schools partnered with Microsoft to develop a chat system that is safe and appropriate for the education context, which they are now piloting in schools. The South Australia Department for Education similarly brought generative AI into the classroom with EdChat, relying on the same infrastructure to ensure safe use for students and teachers.

    Privacy. Data is at the foundation of AI, and Microsoft’s priority is to help ensure customer data is protected and compliant through our long-standing privacy principles, which include user control, transparency and legal and regulatory protections. To build on this, today we’re announcing:

    • Confidential inferencing in preview in our Azure OpenAI Service Whisper model, so customers can develop generative AI applications that support verifiable end-to-end privacy. Confidential inferencing ensures that sensitive customer data remains secure and private during the inferencing process, which is when a trained AI model makes predictions or decisions based on new data. This is especially important for highly regulated industries, such as health care, financial services, retail, manufacturing and energy.
    • The general availability of Azure Confidential VMs with NVIDIA H100 Tensor Core GPUs, which allow customers to secure data directly on the GPU. This builds on our confidential computing solutions, which ensure customer data stays encrypted and protected in a secure environment so that no one gains access to the information or system without permission.
    • Azure OpenAI Data Zones for the EU and U.S. are coming soon and build on the existing data residency provided by Azure OpenAI Service by making it easier to manage the data processing and storage of generative AI applications. This new functionality offers customers the flexibility of scaling generative AI applications across all Azure regions within a geography, while giving them the control of data processing and storage within the EU or U.S.

    We’ve seen increasing customer interest in confidential computing and excitement for confidential GPUs, including from application security provider F5, which is using Azure Confidential VMs with NVIDIA H100 Tensor Core GPUs to build advanced AI-powered security solutions, while ensuring confidentiality of the data its models are analyzing. And multinational banking corporation Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) has integrated Azure confidential computing into their own platform to analyze encrypted data while preserving customer privacy. With the general availability of Azure Confidential VMs with NVIDIA H100 Tensor Core GPUs, RBC can now use these advanced AI tools to work more efficiently and develop more powerful AI models.

    Achieve more with Trustworthy AI 

    We all need and expect AI we can trust. We’ve seen what’s possible when people are empowered to use AI in a trusted way, from enriching employee experiences and reshaping business processes to reinventing customer engagement and reimagining our everyday lives. With new capabilities that improve security, safety and privacy, we continue to enable customers to use and build trustworthy AI solutions that help every person and organization on the planet achieve more. Ultimately, Trustworthy AI encompasses all that we do at Microsoft and it’s essential to our mission as we work to expand opportunity, earn trust, protect fundamental rights and advance sustainability across everything we do.

    Related:

    Commitments

    Capabilities

    Tags: AI, Azure AI Content Safety, Azure AI Studio, Azure Confidential Computing, Azure OpenAI Service, Copilot, GitHub, Microsoft 365, Microsoft Defender, Microsoft Purview, Microsoft Trust Center, Responsible AI, Secure Future Initiative, Trustworthy AI

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Abraham Accords Caucus Introduces Bipartisan Resolution to Promote Peace and Tolerance in Education

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Brad Schneider (D-IL)

    WASHINGTON – The Co-Chairs of the Abraham Accords Caucus, Representatives Brad Schneider (D-IL), Ann Wagner (R-MO), David Trone (D-MD), and Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA), have introduced a bipartisan resolution encouraging the U.S. Department of State and civil society organizations to further the goals of the Abraham Accords by promoting peace and tolerance through education across the Middle East. The resolution emphasizes ongoing reforms to national curricula to reduce antisemitic content, combat hate speech, and foster mutual respect and understanding, particularly in countries such as Egypt, the UAE, Bahrain, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, and Indonesia.

    “The Abraham Accords have shown us the power of diplomacy and cooperation in the Middle East,” said Rep. Brad Schneider. “This resolution underscores the importance of educating future generations with the values of peace, tolerance, and coexistence. We have a responsibility to promote these principles and help ensure a stable and prosperous future for the region.”

    The resolution also calls for the U.S. to work with international organizations, such as the United Nations, to eliminate antisemitism and hate speech from educational materials, while encouraging reforms that promote inclusivity and respect.

    “As our partners in the Middle East educate the next generation of leaders, it is clear that peace and stability in the region depend on an end to antisemitism and hate speech—period,” said Rep. Ann Wagner. “This resolution advances that important mission and makes it clear antisemitism has no place in educational and other organizations throughout the Middle East. By rejecting bigotry and adopting educational curricula that affirm the importance of mutual respect, religious tolerance, and peaceful coexistence, we will deprive the Iranian regime and its proxies of the hatred that fuels their violent agendas.”

    “The education system influences the ideals of the next generation’s global citizens and leaders,” said Rep. David Trone. “Teaching unity over division will have similarly beneficial outcomes as the Abraham Accords: a more peaceful, stable, and strong Middle East.”

    “Education is a cornerstone of the foundation we are building to achieve long-lasting peace and prosperity in the Middle East,” said Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers. “Together, we must help the next generation open their hearts and minds to see each other with dignity and respect. Our bipartisan resolution is about embracing this change and rooting out the hatred that is standing in the way of a brighter future for us all.”

    This resolution represents a key effort by the Abraham Accords Caucus to strengthen and expand the gains made through the historic agreements, ensuring the next generation is equipped to build on the progress made toward peace and stability in the region.

    Full text of the resolution can be found here.

    The Abraham Accords Caucus aims to strengthen the Abraham Accords by encouraging and partnerships among the existing Abraham Accords countries and expanding the agreement to include countries that do not currently have diplomatic relations with Israel. The Caucus has successfully pushed for passage of the Israel Relations Normalization Act, DEFEND Act, and MARITIME Act as well as multiple NDAA provisions addressing diplomatic, military and intelligence cooperation. Senators James Lankford (R-OK), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Joni Ernst (R-IA) and Cory Booker (D-NJ) co-chair the companion caucus in the Senate.

    The Abraham Accords, which were signed on September 15, 2020, resulted in peace and normalization agreements between Israel and several Arab states—the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Morocco—transforming the region, enhancing Israel’s security, creating economic opportunities for Arab states and advancing vital U.S. national security interests. The Accords built on the success of previous peace normalization agreements between Israel, Egypt and Jordan.

    The Caucus is supported by the Atlantic Council, the Abraham Accords Peace Institute, the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), the Anti-Defamation League, the American Jewish Committee, Hadassah—The Women’s Zionist Organization of America, the U.S.-Israel Education Association, the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, the Israel Policy Forum, CUFI Action, the Jewish Federations of North America and B’nai B’rith International.


    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Shipsi Acquired by Rainmakers in Bid to Redefine Shipping Speeds and Disrupt Traditional E-Commerce Logistics

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIAMI, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Rainmakers today announced it had acquired the on-demand delivery and logistics technology, Shipsi, from Auctane. Shipsi is the technology leveling the “instant shipping” playing field in retail. Shipsi believes this acquisition will usher in a new era of AI-driven, ultra-fast delivery solutions for retailers of all sizes and looks forward to continuing to enhance its ability to transform retail logistics through ongoing innovation and support from trusted partners, ensuring a seamless and improved experience for both retailers and consumers.

    Shipsi’s technology gives retailers the power to offer same-day shipping by mobilizing last-mile networks to deliver goods. To date, Shipsi has given thousands of retailers the power to deliver in under two hours—prior to Shipsi, this has been a massive advantage for only a few select retail giants. Shipsi’s technology seamlessly integrates with a retailer’s existing website and supply chain, often without requiring a single change to the existing process. Brands, retailers and platforms such as Shopify and CommerceCloud, are already leveraging Shipsi’s technology to provide an efficient and hassle-free delivery experience for consumers.

    Rye Akervik, the CEO of Shipsi, shared his views about the acquisition: “Final mile instant delivery is one of the most interesting and largely untapped areas in e-commerce and retail today. We’ve seen our partner retailers boost their sales by an average of 18% – a clear indicator that consumers are hungry for the kind of instant gratification that, until now, only a few retailers could provide. With Rainmakers’ AI expertise, we’re not just leveling the playing field; we’re changing the game entirely.”

    Rainmakers, known for their groundbreaking work in AI, plan to supercharge Shipsi’s already impressive capabilities. By combining advanced artificial intelligence with innovative dark warehousing strategies, the new management team aims to dramatically expand Shipsi’s geographic reach and further reduce delivery times, even in areas outside major metropolitan centers.

    The implications of this acquisition extend far beyond faster deliveries. As part of the deal, Shipsi will remain integrated with Auctane products and services, a global logistics giant that processes $200 billion worth of transactions across 3 billion shipments annually. This continued relationship ensures that Shipsi will have the scale and resources to rapidly deploy its enhanced AI-driven delivery solutions.

    The acquisition also comes at a crucial time for the retail industry, which has seen an unprecedented shift towards online shopping in recent years. With consumers increasingly expecting faster delivery times, the Shipsi acquisition could provide a vital lifeline for retailers struggling to meet these evolving demands. “The stats speak for themselves,” Rye Akervik shares, “Consumers want things now, 88% of people are willing to pay more for same-day delivery1, and over 25% of shopping cart abandonment is because shipping is ‘too slow.2” Retailers of any size can either take action, meet today’s consumer demands and thrive or continue to face mounting pressures from increased consumer demand on faster shipping speeds.”

    For more information about Shipsi’s services visit www.shipsi.com

    About Shipsi
    Founded in 2016 with the mission to democratize ultra-fast delivery, Shipsi Inc. has quickly become the go-to solution for retailers looking to offer instant, same-day, and next day delivery speeds without the need for complex integrations or massive infrastructure investments. It was acquired by Stamps.com in 2020

    About Rainmakers
    The Rainmakers is at the forefront of AI development, creating intelligent solutions that transform industries. With a focus on practical applications of cutting-edge AI technology, The Rainmakers has a track record of turning advanced concepts into business realities. Rainmakers has grown and exited over 30 companies in its 20 years in business.

    Media and Investment Contacts:

    For further information, please contact:
    Simon Pearce
    inquiries@shipsi.com

    For investment information, please contact:
    Rye Akervik
    rye.akervik@shipsi.com

    1Lopienski, K. (2024, September 9). Best Same-Day Shipping & Delivery Options [Fastest Shipping]. ShipBob. https://www.shipbob.com/blog/same-day-shipping-delivery/
    249 Cart Abandonment Rate Statistics 2024 – Cart & Checkout – Baymard Institute. (n.d.). Baymard Institute. https://baymard.com/lists/cart-abandonment-rate

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Beyond 1 Billion: Next Steps for Digital Inclusion

    Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)

    The EDISON Alliance has positively impacted the lives of 1 billion people around the world by promoting digital connectivity, ensuring affordability and scaling usability. Despite this historic milestone, one third of the world’s population remains offline.

    What lessons can be learned from recent successes in enabling connectivity and what role will new tools like AI play in continuing progress to digital equity?

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D76-4X2GjeE

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: WFP and USAID spotlight local innovations to combat food insecurity in disaster-prone areas in the Philippines

    Source: World Food Programme

    QUEZON CITY – The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) are hosting the Preparedness and Response Excellence in the Philippines (PREP) Forum on September 24 – 25, highlighting local solutions to tackle food insecurity in disaster-prone areas. Supported by USAID and the Australian Government’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, this forum aims to enhance the Philippines’ emergency response and management capacities, supporting vulnerable Filipinos during natural disasters.

    “I am incredibly impressed at the speed of innovation in disaster management in the Philippines,” said USAID Philippines Deputy Mission Director Rebekah Eubanks. “As your friend, partner, and ally, the United States remains committed to strengthening our partnerships and working with the Philippine government to rebuild and restore lives following disasters.”

    Ahead of the forum, WFP launched the PREP Innovation Challenge in July to explore local solutions that tackle food insecurity. Participants in the challenge come from diverse sectors, including national Government, academia, private sector, and non-governmental organizations such as the University of the Philippines Resilience Institute Nationwide Operational Assessment of Hazards Center, the Department of Science and Technology Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration, CLIMBS Life and General Insurance Cooperative, and the Tarabang para sa Bicol, Inc.

    “What makes this year’s Forum special is our focus on innovation. WFP aims for the Forum to be a valuable platform where experts and stakeholders share solutions that will enhance the Philippines’ disaster management capacity. Innovative solutions can empower vulnerable communities to better prepare for and recover faster from climatic shocks and other crises,” said Regis Chapman, WFP Philippines Country Director.

    Going forward, WFP will collaborate with the local innovators to implement their solutions in at least one of the most disaster-prone provinces of the Philippines: Albay, Cagayan, Catanduanes, Dinagat Islands, Isabela, Maguindanao del Norte, Maguindanao del Sur, and Surigao del Norte. This joint venture will empower the most vulnerable communities to prepare for and recover faster from disasters and crises.

    The innovation challenge is part of WFP’s mission in the Philippines to help pilot and scale existing innovative approaches to improve food security in some of the most disaster-prone areas in close partnership with and support of the Government, donors, and partners.

    The Philippines is one of the world’s most disaster-prone countries. For the third consecutive year, the Philippines ranked 1st worldwide due to its exposure and susceptibility to natural hazards. 

    #                 #                   #

    The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.

    Follow us on Twitter/X @wfp_media @wfp_philippines

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI: Global Carbon Dioxide Removal Market Size Expected to Reach $2.54 Billion By 2033 as Climate Change Concerns Grow

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PALM BEACH, Fla., Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FN Media Group News Commentary – The carbon dioxide removal market has grown rapidly with the developments in the chemical domain. This industry mainly deals with providing solutions for removing C02 from the environment using natural and artificial methods. The C02 removal strategy is mostly integrated into many climate policies, as CO2 is an important element of climate change. CDR includes several methods that are mainly used on land or in aquatic systems. Land-based methods consist of afforestation, reforestation, and other agricultural practices. The water-based methods include ocean alkalinity enhancement, ocean fertilization, wetland restoration, and some blue carbon approaches. There are several products that are used in the CDR process that mainly include Biochar, Direct Air Capture (DAC), Enhanced/Carbon Mineralization, Ocean Alkalinization, BECCS, Microalgae, and some others. The CDR mainly finds applications in the technology and finance sectors. This industry is expected to grow exponentially with the growth in chemical industries. A report from Precedence Research said: “The global carbon dioxide removal market size was USD 638.73 million in 2023, calculated at USD $733.52 million in 2024 and is expected to reach around USD $2,548.29 million by 2033. The market is expanding at a solid CAGR of 14.84% over the forecast period 2024 to 2033. The rising awareness of reducing CO2 emissions across the world is driving the growth of the carbon dioxide removal market.” Active companies in the markets this week include: BluSky Carbon Inc. (CSE: BSKY) (OTCQB: BSKCF), Occidental Petroleum Corporation (NYSE: OXY), Arq, Inc. (NASDAQ: ARQ), Gevo, Inc. (NASDAQ: GEVO), Bloom Energy Corporation (NYSE: BE).

    The Precedence Research report continued saying: “The growing developments in the chemical industry are expected to drive the growth of the carbon dioxide removal market. The rising government initiatives for lowering CO2 emissions have driven the market growth. The increasing demand for clean air across the world fosters market growth. The growing investments from public and private sector entities for developing the carbon dioxide removal industry propels the market growth. The rising awareness of a clean environment among the people boosts the market growth to some extent. Increasing adoption of reforestation across the world is expected to boost market growth. The rise in the number of DAC plants in several countries across the world boosts market growth. The ongoing research and development activities related to CDR methodologies have impacted the carbon dioxide removal market growth positively.”

    BluSky Carbon Inc. (CSE: BSKY) (OTCQB: BSKCF) Secures US$105 Million Biochar Sales Agreement – Ten-year contract for agricultural grade soil amendments in Southern USA – BluSky Carbon Inc. (CSE: BSKY) (OTCQB: BSKCF) (FWB: QE4 /WKN A401NM) (“BluSky” or the “Company”), an innovative entry into the carbon removal clean technology sector is very pleased to announce that it has entered into a sales agreement (“Sales Agreement”) with a U.S. based purchaser (“Purchaser”) pursuant to which the Company has agreed to supply, and the Purchaser has agreed to purchase, up to 382,213 tonnes of biochar over a period of 10 years substantially on the schedule and pricing terms as set forth in the press release issued today.

    The Agreement sets forth a delivery schedule (see tables 1 to 3 shown in the current press release today) designed to achieve an initial volume of approximately 22,200 short tons within the first year of operation, scaling up to approximately 40,000 tons per year for the remainder of the of the Agreement. Biochar will be supplied on as-is basis. The moisture content will be verified with a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) at delivery. Based upon a negotiated rate of two hundred and seventy-five dollars (US$275) per ton, the sales value under the Agreement is approximately US$105 million.

    Biochar is black carbon produced from biomass sources (i.e., wood chips, plant residues, manure or other agricultural waste products) for the purpose of transforming the biomass carbon into a more stable form (carbon sequestration). It can persist for long periods of time in the soil at various depths, typically thousands of years. Biochar is produced by heating biomass or waste materials containing carbon through pyrolysis. Pyrolysis involves thermal and chemical decomposition of biomass in limited or zero supply of oxygen, typically at temperatures ranging from 300°C to 1000°C. Biochar can be used as a soil amendment to improve soil physical and chemical properties, enhance water retention, and sequester carbon. It also contributes to climate change mitigation by stabilizing carbon in soils for thousands of years, preventing it from being released as carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Biochar has shown promise in increasing crop yields, improving soil fertility, and reducing environmental pollution through its ability to retain nutrients and minimize greenhouse gas emissions.

    The Company notes that its ability to meet scheduled delivery of biochar beyond year 1 is conditional upon its commissioning and receiving an additional two (2) Vulcan Heavy biomass pyrolysis systems (Vulcan Heavy). The Company anticipates that each Vulcan Heavy will cost approximately US$3 million and take up to nine months to be manufactured and delivered to the job site. BluSky’s ability to commission any Vulcan Heavy will be contingent on its ability to secure financing on acceptable terms, and no assurance can be given this will occur. At present, the Company believes that it will have the ability to produce 15,000 tons annually (with a sales value of approximately US$4 million under the Agreement) once it completes the build out of its “Kiloplex” facility, including testing and optimization of its Vulcan Heavy system. CONTINUED… Read this full press release and more news for BluSky Carbon at: https://bluskycarbon.com/news/

    Other recent developments in the markets of note include:

    1PointFive, a wholly owned subsidiary of Occidental Petroleum Corporation (NYSE: OXY), announced recently that the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations (OCED) will provide up to $500 million to support the development of the South Texas Direct Air Capture (DAC) Hub. The award is a milestone in furthering commercial-scale DAC in the United States and validation of Occidental and 1PointFive’s ability to use their decades-long expertise in carbon management to accelerate the vital climate technology.

    The funding will be provided in multiple tranches. The initial award of $50 million will advance 1PointFive’s ongoing work at the South Texas DAC Hub. Upcoming activities include engineering, permitting, the procurement of long-lead equipment and continued community engagement to further 1PointFive’s community benefits plan. The total award value for the South Texas DAC Hub is expected to be up to $500 million for the initial DAC facility at the site, and potentially increased up to $650 million for the development of an expanded regional carbon network in South Texas.

    Arq, Inc. (NASDAQ: ARQ), a producer of activated carbon and other environmentally efficient carbon products for use in purification and sustainable materials, recently announced the pricing of an underwritten public offering of 4,770,000 shares of its common stock, par value $0.001 per share (“common stock”), at a price to the public of $5.25 per share. All of the shares in the offering are being sold by Arq. The gross proceeds to Arq from the offering, before deducting the underwriting discounts and commissions and other offering expenses, are expected to be approximately $25 million. The offering is expected to close on or about September 23, 2024, subject to customary closing conditions. In addition, Arq has granted the underwriters a 30-day option to purchase up to an additional 715,500 shares of its common stock in the underwritten public offering.

    Arq intends to use the net proceeds from this offering for general corporate purposes, which may include working capital, capital expenditures, including continued construction of granular activated carbon facilities at Arq’s Red River and Corbin manufacturing facilities located in Coushatta, Louisiana and Corbin, Kentucky, respectively, research and development expenditures, commercial expenditures, debt service costs and repayment, acquisitions of new technologies, products or businesses, and investments.

    Gevo, Inc. (NASDAQ: GEVO) recently announced the sale of approximately $20 million in Investment Tax Credits to an undisclosed corporate buyer. This transaction monetizes Inflation Reduction Act (“IRA”) Investment Tax Credits generated from the commercialization of a renewable natural gas (“RNG”) production facility by Gevo NW Iowa RNG, LLC (“Gevo RNG”) and provides net cash proceeds of approximately $17 million to Gevo after transaction fees.

    The Gevo RNG asset has been optimized to produce approximately 400,000 MMBtus of RNG per year, and Gevo expects to further increase production over time. Additional RNG value could be unlocked through the monetization of Section 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credits under the IRA, once those rules are defined.

    Bloom Energy Corporation (NYSE: BE) recently in response to market commentary regarding the results of the recent Korea Hydrogen Portfolio Standard auction, Bloom said it expects shipment volumes to Korea to be similar in 2024 and the coming years to what they have been in recent years. As disclosed previously, we continue to expect our partner SK ecoplant Co., Ltd. to purchase 500MW of Bloom solid oxide fuel cells between January 1, 2024 and December 31, 2027.

    Bloom is the proven leader in solid oxide fuel cell technology, having demonstrated 60% electrical efficiency using hydrogen, and 90% combined heat and power efficiency. Bloom remains fully confident in our partners in Korea, and in the ability for Bloom fuel cells to be transformative to the Korean energy market. The public auction is just one mechanism for the sale of our energy servers into the Korean market. Our partners have other development projects in addition to those emanating from the auction.

    About FN Media Group:

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The Rectorate of the State University of Management visited Rostov-on-Don on a working visit

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    On September 24, 2024, a working meeting of the rector’s office of the State University of Management and the management of the Don State Technical University was held in Rostov-on-Don, at which the main areas of cooperation between the universities were approved.

    The meeting was attended by Rector Vladimir Stroyev and Vice-Rectors Maria Karelina, Vitaly Lapshenkov and Pavel Pavlovsky from the GUU side. DSTU was represented by Vice-Rector for Research and Innovation Inessa Efremenko, Vice-Rector for General Affairs Dmitry Dzhedirov and Vice-Rector for Youth Policy Andrey Guskov.

    The colleagues discussed issues of interaction within the framework of the previously signed cooperation agreement. Representatives of DSTU expressed interest in the developments of the State University of Management in the field of artificial intelligence and unmanned aerial vehicles. The State University of Management, in turn, proposed interaction within the framework of the project of the student Design Bureau, organized on the initiative of TMH.

    “Not a single university in our time can concentrate in itself the full range of knowledge and technologies in demand on the market. Only network educational programs and broad interaction with partners, including from the public sector and business, are capable of solving the problems facing modern universities,” Vladimir Stroyev noted.

    “We will cooperate with our Moscow colleagues in such areas as the creation of unmanned aerial vehicles for the agro-industrial complex and the digitalization of design documentation as part of fulfilling orders from business representatives,” said Inessa Efremenko.

    In addition, the parties clarified the areas of joint work within the framework of the project “Service Learning”, as well as issues of education, retraining and employment of SVO veterans.

    The delegation from the State University of Management was given a tour of the laboratories, experimental and museum spaces of DSTU.

    In the afternoon, the rector’s office of the State University of Management met with the director of the Rostov Regional Agency for Entrepreneurship Support – the operator of the “My Business” centers of the Rostov Region, Yana Kurinova, to discuss a joint network program for training in the framework of creative economies, as well as employment opportunities for veterans of the SVO.

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 09.24.2024

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

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

    The Rectorate of the State University of Management visited Rostov-on-Don on a working visit

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NIST Awards $6 Million to Carnegie Mellon University to Establish an AI Cooperative Research Center

    Source: US Government research organizations

    Credit: everything possible/Shutterstock

    GAITHERSBURG, Md. — Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo announced that the Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has awarded $6 million to Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) to establish a joint center to support cooperative research and experimentation for the test and evaluation of modern AI capabilities and tools. The center will be housed on the Carnegie Mellon campus, in Pittsburgh.

    “Artificial intelligence is the defining technology of our generation, and at the Commerce Department we are committed to working with America’s world-class higher education institutions, like Carnegie Mellon University, to advance safe, secure and trustworthy development of AI,” Raimondo said. “I am excited to announce this NIST award of $6 million for Carnegie Mellon to boost research of AI systems and support a new generation of scientists and engineers that will help advance American innovation globally.”

    The CMU/NIST AI Measurement Science & Engineering Cooperative Research Center will seek to advance AI risk management practices and evaluation approaches through stakeholder partnerships and translate assessment capabilities and methodologies into practice. 

    “This new cooperative research center will expand NIST’s knowledge base and fundamental research capacity in AI,” said Under Secretary of Commerce for Standards and Technology and NIST Director Laurie E. Locascio. “Through this partnership, we will strengthen our understanding of foundation models and support new research — and new researchers — in this rapidly evolving field.”

    The center will focus on foundational research and developing AI system-level tooling, metrics, evaluation procedures, development processes, and best practices to help AI builders consistently engineer safe AI systems. Its efforts will align with NIST AI priorities including better methods for measuring validity, reliability, safety, privacy and security; accountability, transparency, fairness and explainability; and generative AI evaluation at any stage of development or deployment.

    The grant to CMU was awarded through NIST’s Measurement Science and Engineering Research Grant Program, which supports collaborative research aligned with NIST’s research objectives. The program seeks to develop a diverse, world-class pool of scientists and engineers to engage in NIST’s measurement science and standards research and to promote understanding of measurement science and standards. 

    The new center’s work will support the NIST AI Innovation Lab (NAIIL), which is a component of NIST’s larger efforts on fundamental AI measurement research and guideline development.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Secretary-General’s remarks at the Opening of the General Debate of the Seventy-ninth Session of the General Assembly [trilingual, as delivered, scroll down for all-English and all-French]

    Source: United Nations – English

    r. President of the General Assembly,

    Excellencies,

    Ladies and gentlemen,

    Our world is in a whirlwind.

    We are in an era of epic transformation – facing challenges unlike any we have ever seen – challenges that demand global solutions.

    Yet geo-political divisions keep deepening. The planet keeps heating.

    Wars rage with no clue how they will end.

    And nuclear posturing and new weapons cast a dark shadow.

    We are edging towards the unimaginable – a powder keg that risks engulfing the world.

    Meanwhile, 2024 is the year that half of humanity goes to the polls – and all of humanity will be affected.

    I stand before you in this whirlwind convinced of two overriding truths.

    First, the state of our world is unsustainable.

    We can’t go on like this.

    And second, the challenges we face are solvable.

    But that requires us to make sure the mechanisms of international problem-solving actually solve problems.

    The Summit of the Future was a first step, but we have a long way to go.

    Getting there requires confronting three major drivers of unsustainability.

    A world of impunity – where violations and abuses threaten the very foundation of international law and the UN Charter.

    A world of inequality – where injustices and grievances threaten to undermine countries or even push them over the edge.

    And a world of uncertainty – where unmanaged global risks threaten our future in unknowable ways.

    These worlds of impunity, inequality and uncertainty are connected and colliding.

    Excellencies,

    The level of impunity in the world is politically indefensible and morally intolerable.

    Today, a growing number of governments and others feel entitled to a “get out of jail free” card.

    They can trample international law.

    They can violate the United Nations Charter.

    They can turn a blind eye to international human rights conventions or the decisions of international courts.

    They can thumb their nose at international humanitarian law.

    They can invade another country, lay waste to whole societies, or utterly disregard the welfare of their own people.

    And nothing will happen.

    We see this age of impunity everywhere — in the Middle East, in the heart of Europe, in the Horn of Africa, and beyond.

    The war in Ukraine is spreading with no signs of letting up.

    Civilians are paying the price – in rising death tolls and shattered lives and communities.

    It is time for a just peace based on the UN Charter, on international law and on UN resolutions.

    Meanwhile, Gaza is a non-stop nightmare that threatens to take the entire region with it.

    Look no further than Lebanon.

    We should all be alarmed by the escalation. 

    Lebanon is at the brink. 

    The people of Lebanon – the people of Israel – and the people of the world — cannot afford Lebanon to become another Gaza.

    Let’s be clear.

    Nothing can justify the abhorrent acts of terror committed by Hamas on October 7th, or the taking of hostages – both of which I have repeatedly condemned.

    And nothing can justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people.

    The speed and scale of the killing and destruction in Gaza are unlike anything in my years as Secretary-General.

    More than 200 of our own staff have been killed, many with their families.

    And yet the women and men of the United Nations continue to deliver humanitarian aid.

    I know you join me in paying a special tribute to UNRWA and to all humanitarians in Gaza.

    The international community must mobilize for an immediate ceasefire, the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, and the beginning of an irreversible process towards a two-State solution.

    For those who go on undermining that goal with more settlements, more landgrabs, more incitement — I ask:

    What is the alternative?

    How could the world accept a one-state future in which a large a large number of Palestinians would be included without any freedom, rights or dignity?

    In Sudan, a brutal power struggle has unleashed horrific violence — including widespread rape and sexual assaults.

    A humanitarian catastrophe is unfolding as famine spreads.  Yet outside powers continue to interfere with no unified approach to finding peace.

    In the Sahel, the dramatic and rapid expansion of the terrorist threat requires a joint approach rooted in solidarity – but regional and international cooperation have broken down.

    From Myanmar to the Democratic Republic of the Congo to Haiti to Yemen and beyond – we continue to see appalling levels of violence and human suffering in the face of a chronic failure to find solutions.

    Meanwhile our peacekeeping missions are too often operating in areas where simply there is no peace to keep.

    Instability in many places around the world is a by-product of instability in power relations and geo-political divides.

    For all its perils, the Cold War had rules.

    There were hot lines, red lines and guard rails.

    It can feel as though we don’t have that today.

    Nor do we have a unipolar world.

    We are moving to a multipolar world, but we are not there yet.

    We are in a purgatory of polarity.

    And in this purgatory, more and more countries are filling the spaces of geopolitical divides, doing whatever they want with no accountability.

    That is why it is more important than ever to reaffirm the Charter, to respect international law, to support and implement decisions of international courts, and to reinforce human rights in the world.

    Anywhere and everywhere.

    Excellences, Mesdames et Messieurs,
     
    L’augmentation des inégalités est un deuxième facteur de l’insoutenabilité et une tache sur notre conscience collective.
     
    L’inégalité n’est pas une question technique ou bureaucratique.
     
    Au fond, l’inégalité est une question de pouvoir, aux racines historiques.
     
    Les conflits, les bouleversements climatiques et la crise du coût de la vie étendent ces racines historiques plus profondément encore.
     
    Dans le même temps, le monde peine encore à se relever de la flambée des inégalités engendrée par la pandémie.
     
    Si l’on regarde les 75 pays les plus pauvres du monde, un tiers d’entre eux se trouve aujourd’hui dans une situation pire qu’il y a cinq ans.
     
    Au cours de la même période, les cinq hommes les plus riches de la planète ont plus que doublé leurs fortunes.
     
    Et un pour cent des habitants de la planète détient 43 % de l’ensemble des avoirs financiers mondiaux.
     
    Au niveau national, certains gouvernements décuplent les inégalités en accordant des cadeaux fiscaux massifs aux entreprises et aux ultra-riches — au détriment des investissements dans la santé, l’éducation et la protection sociale.
     
    Et personne n’est plus lésé que les femmes et les filles du monde entier.
     
    Excellences,
     
    La discrimination et les abus généralisés fondés sur le genre constituent l’inégalité la plus répandue dans toutes les sociétés.
     
    Chaque jour, il semble que nous soyons confrontés à de nouveaux cas révoltants de féminicides, de violences fondées sur le genre et de viols collectifs – en temps de paix comme en tant qu’arme de guerre.
     
    Dans certains pays, les lois sont utilisées pour menacer la santé et les droits reproductifs.
     
    Et en Afghanistan, les lois sont utilisées pour entériner l’oppression systématique des femmes et des filles.
     
    Et je suis désolé de constater que, malgré des années de beaux discours, l’inégalité de genre se manifesteet je vous demande pardon de le dire, elle se manifeste aujourd’hui encore, pleinement dans cette enceinte.
     
    Moins de 10 pour cent des intervenants au Débat général de cette semaine sont des femmes.
     
    C’est inacceptable, surtout quand on sait que l’égalité entre les femmes et les hommes contribue à la paix, au développement durable, à l’action climatique et bien plus encore.
     
    C’est précisément pour cela nous avons pris des mesures spécifiques pour atteindre la parité hommes-femmes parmi les hauts responsables de l’Organisation des Nations Unies,objectif qui est déjà complété.
     
    C’est faisable.
     
    J’exhorte les institutions politiques et économiques du monde dominées par les hommes à le faire aussi.
     
    Excellences,
     
    Les inégalités mondiales se reflètent et se renforcent jusque dans nos propres organisations internationales.
     
    Le Conseil de sécurité des Nations Unies a été conçu par les vainqueurs de la Seconde Guerre mondiale.
     
    À l’époque, la majeure partie du continent africain était encore sous domination coloniale.
     
    À ce jour, l’Afrique n’a toujours aucun siège permanent au sein de la principale instance de paix du monde.
     
    Un changement s’impose.
     
    Il en va de même pour l’architecture financière mondiale, mise en place il y a 80 ans.
     
    Je félicite les dirigeants de la Banque mondiale et du Fonds monétaire international pour les mesures importantes qu’ils ont entreprises.
     
    Mais comme le souligne le Pacte pour l’avenir, la lutte contre les inégalités exige une accélération de la réforme de l’architecture financière internationale.
     
    Au cours des huit dernières décennies, l’économie mondiale s’est développée et transformée.
     
    Les institutions de Bretton Woods n’ont pas suivi le rythme.
     
    Elles ne sont plus en mesure de fournir un filet de sécurité mondial, ni d’offrir aux pays en développement le niveau de soutien dont ils ont tant besoin.
     
    Dans les pays les plus pauvres du monde, le coût des intérêts de la dette dépasse, en moyenne, le coût des investissements dans l’éducation, la santé et les infrastructures publiques réunis.
     
    Et à l’échelle du monde, plus de 80 % des cibles des Objectifs de développement durable ne sont pas en bonne voie.

    Excelencias,

    Volver al camino correcto requiere un aumento de financiamiento para la Agenda 2030 y el Acuerdo de París.

    Esto implica que los países del G20 lideren un Estímulo para los Objetivos de Desarrollo Sostenible de 500.000 millones de dólares al año.

    Implica reformas para aumentar sustancialmente la capacidad de préstamo de los Bancos Multilaterales de Desarrollo – y permitirles ampliar masivamente la financiación asequible a largo plazo para el clima y el desarrollo.

    Implica ampliar la financiación de contingencia mediante el reciclaje de los Derechos Especiales de Giro.

    E implica promover una reestructuración de la deuda a largo plazo.

    Excelencias,

    No me hago ilusiones sobre las barreras a la reforma del sistema multilateral.

    Los que tienen poder político y económico, o y los que creen tenerlo, son siempre reacios al cambio.

    Pero el status quo ya está agotando su poder.

    Sin reformas, la fragmentación es inevitable, y las instituciones globales perderán legitimidad, credibilidad y eficacia.

    Excellencies,

    The third driver of our unsustainable world is uncertainty.

    The ground is shifting under our feet.

    Anxiety levels are off the charts.

    And young people, in particular, are counting on us and seeking solutions.

    Uncertainty is compounded by two existential threats – the climate crisis and the rapid advance of technology — in particular, Artificial Intelligence.

    Excellencies,

    We are in a climate meltdown.

    Extreme temperatures, raging fires, droughts, and epic floods are not natural disasters.

    They are human disasters — increasingly fueled by fossil fuels.

    No country is spared. But the poorest and most vulnerable are hardest hit.

    Climate hazards are blowing a hole through the budgets of many African countries, costing up to five per cent of GDP – every year.

    And this is just the start.

    We are on course to careen past the global limit of a 1.5 degree temperature rise.

    But as the problem gets worse, solutions are getting better.

    Renewable prices are plummeting, roll-out is accelerating, and lives are being transformed by affordable, accessible clean energy.

    Renewables don’t just generate power. They generate jobs, wealth, energy security and a path out of poverty for millions.

    But developing countries cannot be plundered in that journey.

    Our Panel on Critical Minerals has recommended fair and sustainable ways to meet global demand for these resources, which are essential to the renewables revolution.

    Excellencies,

    A future without fossil fuels is certain.  A fair and fast transition is not.

    That is in your hands.

    By next year, every country must produce an ambitious new national climate action plan – or Nationally Determined Contributions.

    These must bring national energy strategies, sustainable development priorities, and climate ambitions together.

    They must align with the 1.5 degree limit, cover the whole economy, and contribute to every one of the COP28 energy transition targets.

    An International Energy Agency report released today breaks this down.

    By 2035, on average, advanced economies must slash energy emissions 80 per cent, and emerging markets 65 per cent.

    The G20 is responsible for 80 per cent of total emissions.

    They must lead the charge – keeping with the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities in the light of different national circumstances.

    But this must be a joint effort — pooling resources, scientific capacities and proven and affordable technologies for all to be able to reach those targets.

    I’m honoured to be working closely with President Lula of Brazil – who is both G20 Chair and COP30 host – to secure maximum ambition, acceleration and cooperation. We just met for that purpose.

    Finance is essential.

    COP29 is around the corner.

    It must deliver a significant new finance goal.

    We also need a Loss and Damage Fund that meets the scale of the challenge – and developed countries meeting their adaptation finance promises.

    And we must finally flip the script on a crazy situation:

    We continue to reward polluters to wreck our planet.

    The fossil fuel industry continues to pocket massive profits and subsidies, while everyday people bear the costs of climate catastrophe – from rising insurance premiums to lost livelihoods.

    I call on G20 countries to shift money from fossil fuel subsidies and investments to a just energy transition;

    To put an effective price on carbon;

    And to implement new and innovative sources of financing – including solidarity levies on fossil fuel extraction – through legally-binding, transparent mechanisms.

    All by next year and this taking into account that those who shoulder the blame must foot the bill.

    Polluters must pay.

    Excellencies,

    The rapid rise of new technologies poses another unpredictable existential risk.

    Artificial Intelligence will change virtually everything we know — from work, education and communication, to culture and politics.

    We know AI is rapidly advancing, but where is it taking us:

    To more freedom – or more conflict?

    To a more sustainable world – or greater inequality?

    To being better informed – or easier to manipulate?

    A handful of companies and even individuals have already amassed enormous power over the development of AI – with little accountability or oversight for the moment.

    Without a global approach to its management, artificial intelligence could lead to artificial divisions across the board – a Great Fracture with two internets, two markets, two economies – with every country forced to pick a side, and enormous consequences for all.

    The United Nations is the universal platform for dialogue and consensus.

    It is uniquely placed to promote cooperation on AI – based on the values of the Charter and international law.

    The global debate happens here, or it does not happen.

    I welcome important first steps.

    Two resolutions in the General Assembly, the Global Digital Compact, and the recommendations of the High-Level Body on AI can lay the foundations for inclusive governance of AI.

    Let’s move forward together to make AI a force for good.

    Excellencies,

    Nothing lasts forever.

    But a feature of human life is that it appears otherwise.

    The current order always feels fixed.

    Until it is not.
     
    Across human history, we see empires rising and falling; old certainties crumbling; tectonic shifts in global affairs.
     
    Today our course is unsustainable.

    It is in all our interests to manage the epic transformations underway; to choose the future we want and to guide our world towards it.

    Many have said that the differences and divisions today are just too great.

    That it is impossible for us to come together for the common good.

    You proved that is not true.

    The Summit of the Future showed that with a spirit of dialogue and compromise, we can join forces to steer our world to a more sustainable path.

    It is not the end.

    It is a start of a journey, a compass in the whirlwind.

    Let’s keep going.

    Let’s move our world towards less impunity and more accountability …. less inequality and more justice … less uncertainty and more opportunity.

    The people of the world are looking to us – and succeeding generations will look back on us.

    Let them find us on the side of the United Nations Charter … on the side of our shared values and principles … and on the right side of history.

    I thank you.

    ***
    [all-English]

    Mr. President of the General Assembly,
     
    Excellencies,
     
    Ladies and gentlemen,
     
    Our world is in a whirlwind.
     
    We are in an era of epic transformation – facing challenges unlike any we have ever seen – challenges that demand global solutions.
     
    Yet geo-political divisions keep deepening. The planet keeps heating.

    Wars rage with no clue how they will end.
     
    And nuclear posturing and new weapons cast a dark shadow.
     
    We are edging towards the unimaginable – a powder keg that risks engulfing the world.
     
    Meanwhile, 2024 is the year that half of humanity goes to the polls – and all of humanity will be affected.
     
    I stand before you in this whirlwind convinced of two overriding truths.
     
    First, the state of our world is unsustainable.
     
    We can’t go on like this.
     
    And second, the challenges we face are solvable.
     
    But that requires us to make sure the mechanisms of international problem-solving actually solve problems.
     
    The Summit of the Future was a first step, but we have a long way to go.
     
    Getting there requires confronting three major drivers of unsustainability.
     
    A world of impunity – where violations and abuses threaten the very foundation of international law and the UN Charter.
     
    A world of inequality – where injustices and grievances threaten to undermine countries or even push them over the edge.
     
    And a world of uncertainty – where unmanaged global risks threaten our future in unknowable ways.
     
    These worlds of impunity, inequality and uncertainty are connected and colliding.
     
    Excellencies,
     
    The level of impunity in the world is politically indefensible and morally intolerable.
     
    Today, a growing number of governments and others feel entitled to a “get out of jail free” card.
     
    They can trample international law.
     
    They can violate the United Nations Charter.
     
    They can turn a blind eye to international human rights conventions or the decisions of international courts.
     
    They can thumb their nose at international humanitarian law.
     
    They can invade another country, lay waste to whole societies, or utterly disregard the welfare of their own people.
     
    And nothing will happen.
     
    We see this age of impunity everywhere — in the Middle East, in the heart of Europe, in the Horn of Africa, and beyond.
     
    The war in Ukraine is spreading with no signs of letting up.
     
    Civilians are paying the price – in rising death tolls and shattered lives and communities.
     
    It is time for a just peace based on the UN Charter, on international law and on UN resolutions.
     
    Meanwhile, Gaza is a non-stop nightmare that threatens to take the entire region with it.
     
    Look no further than Lebanon.
     
    We should all be alarmed by the escalation. 
     
    Lebanon is at the brink. 
     
    The people of Lebanon – the people of Israel – and the people of the world — cannot afford Lebanon to become another Gaza.
     
    Let’s be clear.
     
    Nothing can justify the abhorrent acts of terror committed by Hamas on October 7th, or the taking of hostages – both of which I have repeatedly condemned.
     
    And nothing can justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people.
     
    The speed and scale of the killing and destruction in Gaza are unlike anything in my years as Secretary-General.
     
    More than 200 of our own staff have been killed, many with their families.
     
    And yet the women and men of the United Nations continue to deliver humanitarian aid.
     
    I know you join me in paying a special tribute to UNRWA and to all humanitarians in Gaza.
     
    The international community must mobilize for an immediate ceasefire, the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, and the beginning of an irreversible process towards a two-State solution.
     
    For those who go on undermining that goal with more settlements, more landgrabs, more incitement — I ask:
     
    What is the alternative?
     
    How could the world accept a one-state future in which a large a large number of Palestinians would be included without any freedom, rights or dignity?
     
    In Sudan, a brutal power struggle has unleashed horrific violence — including widespread rape and sexual assaults.
     
    A humanitarian catastrophe is unfolding as famine spreads.  Yet outside powers continue to interfere with no unified approach to finding peace.
     
    In the Sahel, the dramatic and rapid expansion of the terrorist threat requires a joint approach rooted in solidarity – but regional and international cooperation have broken down.
     
    From Myanmar to the Democratic Republic of the Congo to Haiti to Yemen and beyond – we continue to see appalling levels of violence and human suffering in the face of a chronic failure to find solutions.
     
    Meanwhile our peacekeeping missions are too often operating in areas where simply there is no peace to keep.
     
    Instability in many places around the world is a by-product of instability in power relations and geo-political divides.
     
    For all its perils, the Cold War had rules.
     
    There were hot lines, red lines and guard rails.
     
    It can feel as though we don’t have that today.
     
    Nor do we have a unipolar world.
     
    We are moving to a multipolar world, but we are not there yet.
     
    We are in a purgatory of polarity.
     
    And in this purgatory, more and more countries are filling the spaces of geopolitical divides, doing whatever they want with no accountability.
     
    That is why it is more important than ever to reaffirm the Charter, to respect international law, to support and implement decisions of international courts, and to reinforce human rights in the world.
     
    Anywhere and everywhere.

    Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

    Rising inequalities are a second driver of unsustainability and a stain on our collective conscience. 

    Inequality is not a technical or bureaucratic issue. 

    At its heart, inequality is a question of power with historic roots.

    Conflict, climate upheaval and the cost-of-living crisis, are pushing those roots deeper. 

    At the same time, the world has not recovered from the surge in inequalities caused by the pandemic.

    Of the world’s poorest 75 countries, one-third are worse off today than they were five years ago.

    During that same period, the five richest men in the world have more than doubled their wealth.
     
    And the top one per cent of people on earth own 43 per cent of all global financial assets.

    At the national level, some governments are supercharging inequalities by doling out massive tax giveaways to corporations and the ultra-rich, while shortchanging investments in health, education and social protection.

    No one is being short-changed more than the world’s women and girls. 

    Excellencies, 
     
    Rampant gender-based discrimination and abuse are the most prevalent inequality across all societies. 
     
    Every day, it seems we are confronted by yet more sickening cases of femicide, gender-based violence and mass rape, both in peacetime and as a weapon of war. 
     
    In some countries, laws are being used to threaten reproductive health and rights. 

    And in Afghanistan, laws are being used to lock-in the systematic oppression of women and girls. 
     
    And I am sorry to observe that despite years of talk, gender inequality is on full display, and I am sorry for mentioning it here, gender inequality is on full display in this very Hall. 

    Less than 10 per cent of speakers during this week’s General Debate are women. 
     
    This is unacceptable – especially when we know gender equality delivers for peace, sustainable development, climate action and much more. 

    That is precisely why we took targeted measures to achieve gender parity among the United Nations senior leadership, an objective that has already been achieved.

    It’s doable. 

    I call on male-dominated political and economic establishments around the world to do it as well.
     
    Excellencies,

    Global inequalities are reflected and reinforced even in our own global institutions.

    The United Nations Security Council was designed by the victors of the Second World War. 

    Most of Africa was still under colonial domination. 

    To this day, Africa has no permanent seat on the world’s preeminent council of peace. 

    This must change.

    So must the global financial architecture, set up 80 years ago. 

    I commend the leaders of the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund for taking important steps.

    But as the Pact for the Future emphasizes, tackling inequalities requires accelerating reform of the international financial architecture.

    Over the past eight decades, the global economy has grown and transformed.

    The Bretton Woods institutions have not kept pace.

    They can no longer provide a global safety net – or offer developing countries the level of support they need.

    Debt interest payments in the world’s poorest countries now cost more, on average, than investments in education, health and infrastructure combined.

    And around the world, more than 80 per cent of Sustainable Development Goal targets are off track. 

    Excellencies,

    Getting back on track requires a surge of financing for the 2030 Agenda and the Paris Agreement.

    That means G20 countries leading on an SDG Stimulus of $500 billion a year. 

    It means reforms to substantially increase the lending capacity of Multilateral Development Banks and enable them to massively scale-up affordable long-term climate and development finance.

    It means expanding contingency financing through recycling Special Drawing Rights.

    And it means promoting long-term debt-restructuring.

    Excellencies,

    I have no illusions about the obstacles to reform of the multilateral system.

    Those with political and economic power – and those who believe they have power – are always reluctant to change.

    But the status quo is already draining their power.

    Without reform, fragmentation is inevitable, and global institutions will become less legitimate, less credible, and less effective.
     
    Excellencies,
     
    The third driver of our unsustainable world is uncertainty.
     
    The ground is shifting under our feet.
     
    Anxiety levels are off the charts.
     
    And young people, in particular, are counting on us and seeking solutions.
     
    Uncertainty is compounded by two existential threats – the climate crisis and the rapid advance of technology — in particular, Artificial Intelligence.
     
    Excellencies,
     
    We are in a climate meltdown.
     
    Extreme temperatures, raging fires, droughts, and epic floods are not natural disasters.
     
    They are human disasters — increasingly fueled by fossil fuels.
     
    No country is spared. But the poorest and most vulnerable are hardest hit.
     
    Climate hazards are blowing a hole through the budgets of many African countries, costing up to five per cent of GDP – every year.
     
    And this is just the start.
     
    We are on course to careen past the global limit of a 1.5 degree temperature rise.
     
    But as the problem gets worse, solutions are getting better.
     
    Renewable prices are plummeting, roll-out is accelerating, and lives are being transformed by affordable, accessible clean energy.
     
    Renewables don’t just generate power. They generate jobs, wealth, energy security and a path out of poverty for millions.
     
    But developing countries cannot be plundered in that journey.
     
    Our Panel on Critical Minerals has recommended fair and sustainable ways to meet global demand for these resources, which are essential to the renewables revolution.
     
    Excellencies,
     
    A future without fossil fuels is certain.  A fair and fast transition is not.
     
    That is in your hands.
     
    By next year, every country must produce an ambitious new national climate action plan – or Nationally Determined Contributions.
     
    These must bring national energy strategies, sustainable development priorities, and climate ambitions together.
     
    They must align with the 1.5 degree limit, cover the whole economy, and contribute to every one of the COP28 energy transition targets.
     
    An International Energy Agency report released today breaks this down.
     
    By 2035, on average, advanced economies must slash energy emissions 80 per cent, and emerging markets 65 per cent.
     
    The G20 is responsible for 80 per cent of total emissions.
     
    They must lead the charge – keeping with the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities in the light of different national circumstances.
     
    But this must be a joint effort — pooling resources, scientific capacities and proven and affordable technologies for all to be able to reach those targets.
     
    I’m honoured to be working closely with President Lula of Brazil – who is both G20 Chair and COP30 host – to secure maximum ambition, acceleration and cooperation. We just met for that purpose.
     
    Finance is essential.
     
    COP29 is around the corner.
     
    It must deliver a significant new finance goal.
     
    We also need a Loss and Damage Fund that meets the scale of the challenge – and developed countries meeting their adaptation finance promises.
     
    And we must finally flip the script on a crazy situation:
     
    We continue to reward polluters to wreck our planet.
     
    The fossil fuel industry continues to pocket massive profits and subsidies, while everyday people bear the costs of climate catastrophe – from rising insurance premiums to lost livelihoods.
     
    I call on G20 countries to shift money from fossil fuel subsidies and investments to a just energy transition;
     
    To put an effective price on carbon;
     
    And to implement new and innovative sources of financing – including solidarity levies on fossil fuel extraction – through legally-binding, transparent mechanisms.
     
    All by next year and this taking into account that those who shoulder the blame must foot the bill.
     
    Polluters must pay.
     
    Excellencies,
     
    The rapid rise of new technologies poses another unpredictable existential risk.
     
    Artificial Intelligence will change virtually everything we know — from work, education and communication, to culture and politics.
     
    We know AI is rapidly advancing, but where is it taking us:
     
    To more freedom – or more conflict?
     
    To a more sustainable world – or greater inequality?
     
    To being better informed – or easier to manipulate?
     
    A handful of companies and even individuals have already amassed enormous power over the development of AI – with little accountability or oversight for the moment.
     
    Without a global approach to its management, artificial intelligence could lead to artificial divisions across the board – a Great Fracture with two internets, two markets, two economies – with every country forced to pick a side, and enormous consequences for all.
     
    The United Nations is the universal platform for dialogue and consensus.
     
    It is uniquely placed to promote cooperation on AI – based on the values of the Charter and international law.
     
    The global debate happens here, or it does not happen.
     
    I welcome important first steps.
     
    Two resolutions in the General Assembly, the Global Digital Compact, and the recommendations of the High-Level Body on AI can lay the foundations for inclusive governance of AI.
     
    Let’s move forward together to make AI a force for good.
     
    Excellencies,
     
    Nothing lasts forever.
     
    But a feature of human life is that it appears otherwise.
     
    The current order always feels fixed.
     
    Until it is not.
     
    Across human history, we see empires rising and falling; old certainties crumbling; tectonic shifts in global affairs.
     
    Today our course is unsustainable.
     
    It is in all our interests to manage the epic transformations underway; to choose the future we want and to guide our world towards it.
     
    Many have said that the differences and divisions today are just too great.
     
    That it is impossible for us to come together for the common good.
     
    You proved that is not true.
     
    The Summit of the Future showed that with a spirit of dialogue and compromise, we can join forces to steer our world to a more sustainable path.
     
    It is not the end.
     
    It is a start of a journey, a compass in the whirlwind.
     
    Let’s keep going.
     
    Let’s move our world towards less impunity and more accountability …. less inequality and more justice … less uncertainty and more opportunity.
     
    The people of the world are looking to us – and succeeding generations will look back on us.
     
    Let them find us on the side of the United Nations Charter … on the side of our shared values and principles … and on the right side of history.
     
    I thank you.

    ***
    [all-French]

    Monsieur le Président,

    Excellences,

    Mesdames et Messieurs,

    Notre monde est pris dans un tourbillon.

    Nous vivons une ère de transformation aux proportions épiques et faisons face à des défis sans précédent qui exigent des solutions mondiales.

    Et pourtant, les divisions géopolitiques ne vont qu’en s’aggravant. La planète continue de se réchauffer.

    Les guerres font rage sans que l’on sache comment elles vont se terminer.

    Les gesticulations nucléaires et les nouvelles armes font planer sur nous une ombre inquiétante.

    Nous allons tout droit vers l’inimaginable : une poudrière qui risque d’engloutir le monde.

    En 2024, la moitié de l’humanité doit se rendre aux urnes – et c’est sur l’humanité tout entière que pèsera l’issue de ces scrutins.

    Je me tiens devant vous, face à ce tourbillon, convaincu de deux vérités primordiales.

    Tout d’abord, l’état dans lequel se trouve notre monde n’est pas viable.

    On ne peut pas continuer ainsi.

    Et deuxièmement, il est possible de relever les défis auxquels nous sommes confrontés.

    Mais pour cela, nous devons nous assurer que les mécanismes de règlement des problèmes internationaux permettent bel et bien de régler les problèmes.

    Le Sommet de l’avenir était un premier pas, mais le chemin à parcourir est encore long.

    Pour y parvenir, il faut s’attaquer à trois grands facteurs de l’insoutenabilité.

    Un monde d’impunité – dans lequel les violations et les atteintes menacent le fondement même du droit international et de la Charte des Nations Unies.

    Un monde d’inégalités – où les injustices et les griefs auxquelles elles donnent jour menacent d’affaiblir les pays, ou pire, de les précipiter dans le gouffre.

    Et un monde d’incertitude – où les risques mondiaux ne sont pas gérés, ce qui hypothèque notre avenir, bien au-delà de ce que l’on peut imaginer.

    Ces mondes d’impunité, d’inégalité et d’incertitude sont liés entre eux et se télescopent.

    Excellences,

    Le degré d’impunité dans le monde est indéfendable sur le plan politique et moralement intolérable.

    Aujourd’hui, un nombre croissant de gouvernements et d’autres acteurs se sentent autorisés à bénéficier, comme au Monopoly, d’une carte « Vous êtes libéré de prison ».

    Ils peuvent fouler aux pieds le droit international.

    Ils peuvent violer la Charte des Nations Unies.

    Ils peuvent ignorer les conventions internationales relatives aux droits humains ou les décisions des tribunaux internationaux.

    Ils peuvent bafouer le droit international humanitaire.

    Ils peuvent envahir un autre pays, dévaster des sociétés entières ou mépriser complètement le bien-être de leur propre peuple.

    Sans que rien ne se passe.

    Partout ‒ au Moyen-Orient, au cœur de l’Europe, dans la Corne de l’Afrique et au-delà ‒ c’est l’ère de l’impunité.

    La guerre en Ukraine s’étend et rien n’indique qu’elle va s’arrêter.

    Ce sont les populations civiles qui en paient le prix. À preuve, les morts de plus en plus nombreuses, les vies et les communautés brisées.

    Il est temps d’instaurer une paix juste, fondée sur la Charte des Nations Unies, le droit international et les résolutions des organes des Nations Unies.

    Pendant ce temps, Gaza vit un cauchemar permanent qui menace d’entraîner toute la région dans le chaos.

    À commencer par le Liban.

    Nous devrions tous être alarmés par cette escalade. 

    Le Liban est au bord du gouffre. 

    Le peuple libanais, le peuple israélien et les peuples du monde ne peuvent se permettre que le Liban devienne un autre Gaza.

    Soyons clairs.

    Rien ne peut justifier les actes de terreur abominables commis par le Hamas le 7 octobre, ni les prises d’otages, que j’ai condamnés à maintes reprises.

    Mais rien ne peut justifier d’infliger un châtiment collectif au peuple palestinien.

    La rapidité et l’ampleur du massacre et des destructions à Gaza ne ressemblent à rien d’autre de ce que j’ai connu depuis que je suis Secrétaire général.

    Plus de 200 membres du personnel des Nations Unies ont déjà été tués et, souvent, des membres de leurs familles ont aussi péri à leurs côtés.

    Et pourtant, les femmes et les hommes des Nations Unies continuent d’accomplir leur mission.

    Je sais que vous vous joignez à moi pour rendre un hommage appuyé à l’UNRWA et à tous les humanitaires à Gaza.

    La communauté internationale doit se mobiliser pour obtenir un cessez-le-feu immédiat, la libération immédiate et inconditionnelle des tous les otages et le lancement d’un processus irréversible pour qu’une solution des deux États voie le jour.

    J’aimerais poser une question à ceux qui continuent de saper cet objectif en multipliant les implantations, les expulsions, les provocations:
    Quelle est l’alternative ?

    Comment le monde pourrait-il accepter un État qui inclurait un grand nombre de Palestiniens et de Palestiniennes privés de liberté, de droits et de dignité ?

    Au Soudan, une lutte brutale pour le pouvoir a donné lieu à d’horribles violences, notamment des viols et des agressions sexuelles à grande échelle.

    Une catastrophe humanitaire est en train de se produire dans un pays en proie à une famine rampante. Pourtant, les puissances extérieures continuent de s’ingérer sans aucune approche unifiée pour trouver la paix.

    Au Sahel, l’expansion dramatique et rapide de la menace terroriste exige l’adoption d’une approche commune fondée sur la solidarité, mais la coopération régionale et internationale est en panne.

    Du Myanmar à la République démocratique du Congo, en passant par Haïti et le Yémen, les populations restent exposées à des violences et des souffrances effroyables, sur fond d’incapacité chronique à trouver des solutions.

    Pendant ce temps, nos missions de maintien de la paix opèrent trop souvent dans des lieux où il n’y a tout simplement pas de paix à maintenir.

    L’instabilité que l’on observe en de nombreux endroits du monde est la conséquence de l’instabilité des relations de pouvoir et des clivages géopolitiques.

    La Guerre Froide était pleine de dangers, mais elle avait aussi ses règles.

    Il y avait le téléphone rouge, des limites à ne pas franchir et des garde-fous.

    On a parfois l’impression que l’on n’a rien de tout cela aujourd’hui.

    Nous ne vivons pas non plus dans un monde unipolaire.

    Nous sommes en train de passer à un monde multipolaire, mais nous n’y sommes pas encore.

    Nous sommes en fait dans le purgatoire de la polarité.

    Et dans ce purgatoire, de plus en plus de pays occupent les espaces laissés vides par les divisions géopolitiques et font ce qu’ils veulent sans avoir à rendre de comptes.

    C’est pourquoi il est plus important que jamais de réaffirmer la Charte, d’appuyer et de respecter le droit international et de renforcer les droits humains à travers le monde.

    Partout et en tout lieu.

    Excellences, Mesdames et Messieurs,

    L’augmentation des inégalités est un deuxième facteur de l’insoutenabilité et une tache sur notre conscience collective. 

    L’inégalité n’est pas une question technique ou bureaucratique. 

    Au fond, l’inégalité est une question de pouvoir, aux racines historiques.

    Les conflits, les bouleversements climatiques et la crise du coût de la vie étendent ces racines historiques plus profondément encore. 

    Dans le même temps, le monde peine encore à se relever de la flambée des inégalités engendrée par la pandémie.

    Si l’on regarde les 75 pays les plus pauvres du monde, un tiers d’entre eux se trouve aujourd’hui dans une situation pire qu’il y a cinq ans.

    Au cours de la même période, les cinq hommes les plus riches de la planète ont plus que doublé leurs fortunes.

    Et un pour cent des habitants de la planète détient 43 % de l’ensemble des avoirs financiers mondiaux.

    Au niveau national, certains gouvernements décuplent les inégalités en accordant des cadeaux fiscaux massifs aux entreprises et aux ultra-riches — au détriment des investissements dans la santé, l’éducation et la protection sociale.

    Et personne n’est plus lésé que les femmes et les filles du monde entier.

    Excellences,

    La discrimination et les abus généralisés fondés sur le genre constituent l’inégalité la plus répandue dans toutes les sociétés.

    Chaque jour, il semble que nous soyons confrontés à de nouveaux cas révoltants de féminicides, de violences fondées sur le genre et de viols collectifs – en temps de paix comme en tant qu’arme de guerre.

    Dans certains pays, les lois sont utilisées pour menacer la santé et les droits reproductifs. 

    Et en Afghanistan, les lois sont utilisées pour entériner l’oppression systématique des femmes et des filles.

    Et je suis désolé de constater que, malgré des années de beaux discours, l’inégalité de genre se manifeste, et je vous demande pardon de le dire, elle se manifeste aujourd’hui encore, pleinement dans cette enceinte.

    Moins de 10 pour cent des intervenants au Débat général de cette semaine sont des femmes.
     
    C’est inacceptable, surtout quand on sait que l’égalité entre les femmes et les hommes contribue à la paix, au développement durable, à l’action climatique et bien plus encore.

    C’est précisément pour cela nous avons pris des mesures spécifiques pour atteindre la parité hommes-femmes parmi les hauts responsables de l’Organisation des Nations Unies, objectif qui est déjà complété.

    C’est faisable.

    J’exhorte les institutions politiques et économiques du monde dominées par les hommes à le faire aussi.
     
    Excellences,

    Les inégalités mondiales se reflètent et se renforcent jusque dans nos propres organisations internationales.

    Le Conseil de sécurité des Nations Unies a été conçu par les vainqueurs de la Seconde Guerre mondiale. 

    À l’époque, la majeure partie du continent africain était encore sous domination coloniale. 

    À ce jour, l’Afrique n’a toujours aucun siège permanent au sein de la principale instance de paix du monde. 

    Un changement s’impose.

    Il en va de même pour l’architecture financière mondiale, mise en place il y a 80 ans. 

    Je félicite les dirigeants de la Banque mondiale et du Fonds monétaire international pour les mesures importantes qu’ils ont entreprises.

    Mais comme le souligne le Pacte pour l’avenir, la lutte contre les inégalités exige une accélération de la réforme de l’architecture financière internationale.

    Au cours des huit dernières décennies, l’économie mondiale s’est développée et transformée.

    Les institutions de Bretton Woods n’ont pas suivi le rythme.

    Elles ne sont plus en mesure de fournir un filet de sécurité mondial, ni d’offrir aux pays en développement le niveau de soutien dont ils ont tant besoin. 

    Dans les pays les plus pauvres du monde, le coût des intérêts de la dette dépasse, en moyenne, le coût des investissements dans l’éducation, la santé et les infrastructures publiques réunis.

    Et à l’échelle du monde, plus de 80 % des cibles des Objectifs de développement durable ne sont pas en bonne voie.

    Excellences,

    Pour que l’on puisse redresser le cap, les financements mobilisés pour le Programme 2030 et l’Accord de Paris doivent connaître un véritable bond.

    Cela implique que les pays du G20 montrent l’exemple sur le Plan de relance des Objectifs de développement durable, de 500 milliards de dollars par an.

    Cela implique également d’engager des réformes pour renforcer considérablement la capacité de prêt des Banques multilatérales de développement, afin qu’elles puissent proposer bien davantage de financements abordables et à long terme pour l’action climatique et le développement.

    Cela implique de débloquer plus largement des financements pour imprévus, à travers le recyclage des droits de tirage spéciaux.

    Et cela implique de promouvoir une restructuration de la dette à long terme.

    Excellences,

    Je ne me fais guère d’illusions sur les obstacles que nous rencontrerons dans le cadre de la réforme du système multilatéral.

    Ceux qui détiennent le pouvoir politique et économique – et ceux qui croient le détenir – ont toujours une aversion au changement.

    Pourtant, le statu quo ébranle déjà leur pouvoir.

    Sans réforme, la fragmentation est inévitable, condamnant les institutions mondiales à perdre en légitimité, en crédibilité et en efficacité.

    Excellences,

    Le troisième facteur de l’insoutenabilité de notre monde est l’incertitude.

    Le sol se dérobe sous nos pieds.

    L’anxiété est à son comble.

    Les jeunes, en particulier, comptent sur nous et recherchent des solutions.

    L’incertitude est aggravée par deux menaces existentielles : la crise climatique et les bouleversements technologiques rapides, notamment l’intelligence artificielle.

    Excellences,

    Nous assistons à un véritable effondrement du climat.

    Les températures extrêmes, les incendies violents, les sécheresses et les inondations catastrophiques ne sont pas des catastrophes naturelles.

    Ce sont des catastrophes humaines, dont les combustibles fossiles précipitent l’enchaînement.

    Aucun pays n’est épargné. Mais ce sont les pays les plus pauvres et les plus vulnérables qui paient le prix fort.

    Les calamités climatiques obèrent les budgets de nombreux pays d’Afrique et leur coûtent jusqu’à 5 % de leur PIB – chaque année.

    Et ce n’est que le début.

    La température mondiale est sur le point de dépasser la limite de 1,5 degré.

    Mais si le problème s’aggrave, les solutions que l’on y apporte deviennent plus efficaces.

    Prenons l’exemple des énergies renouvelables : leur prix diminue fortement, leur déploiement s’accélère et des populations voient leur quotidien transformé par une énergie propre, accessible et d’un coût abordable.

    Les énergies renouvelables ne servent pas qu’à produire de l’électricité. Elles créent aussi des emplois et de la richesse, sont gages de sécurité énergétique et permettent à des millions de personnes de sortir de la pauvreté.

    Mais cela ne doit pas passer par le pillage des pays en développement.

    Notre Groupe chargé de la question des minéraux essentiels a recommandé que des mesures équitables et durables soient prises pour répondre à la demande mondiale dans ces ressources, indispensables à la révolution des énergies renouvelables.

    Excellences,

    Il est certain qu’un monde sans combustibles fossiles verra le jour. En revanche, rien ne dit que la transition sera rapide ou équitable.

    Cela dépend de vous.

    D’ici à l’an prochain, tous les pays devront élaborer de nouveaux plans d’action nationaux pour le climat ambitieux – ou déterminer leurs contributions au niveau national.

    Ils devront faire converger leurs stratégies énergétiques nationales, leurs priorités en matière de développement durable et les ambitions climatiques.

    Ils devront ne pas dépasser la limite de 1,5 degré, couvrir l’ensemble de l’économie et concourir à la réalisation de tous les objectifs de transition énergétique convenus lors de la COP28.

    Dans le rapport qu’elle a publié aujourd’hui, l’Agence internationale de l’énergie chiffre le niveau d’ambition à atteindre.

    D’ici à 2035, en moyenne, les émissions de gaz à effet de serre doivent diminuer de 80 % dans les économies avancées, de 65 % dans les marchés émergents.

    Les pays du G20 sont responsables au total de 80 % des émissions.

    Ils doivent mener la charge, en respectant le principe des responsabilités communes mais différenciées et en tenant compte des capacités de chacun, en fonction des différents contextes nationaux.

    Mais cette action doit s’inscrire dans une démarche collective et suppose la mise en commun des ressources, des capacités scientifiques et de technologies abordables à l’efficacité avérée pour que tous puissent atteindre cet objectif.

    J’ai l’honneur de collaborer étroitement avec le Président Lula, dont le pays préside le G20 et accueillera la COP 30, afin de garantir le plus haut degré d’ambition possible, d’accélérer le rythme des progrès et de favoriser la coopération.

    Nous venons de nous rencontrer pour discuter de cela.

    Les financements sont d’une importance cruciale.

    La COP29 arrive à grands pas.

    Elle doit être l’occasion de fixer un nouvel objectif ambitieux en matière de financement.

    Il faut également que le fonds pour les pertes et les préjudices soit à la hauteur de l’enjeu et que les pays développés tiennent leurs promesses en matière de financement de l’adaptation.

    Et l’heure est venue de faire bouger les lignes face à une situation insensée.

    Nous continuons de récompenser les pollueurs qui détruisent notre planète.

    Le secteur des combustibles fossiles continue d’engranger des profits et des subventions considérables, mais ce sont les populations qui supportent les coûts de la catastrophe climatique, depuis la hausse des primes d’assurance jusqu’à la perte de leurs moyens de subsistance.

    Je demande aux pays du G20 de mettre fin aux subventions et aux investissements liés aux combustibles fossiles et de financer à la place une transition énergétique juste,

    De mettre un prix au carbone.

    Et d’adopter des sources de financement nouvelles et novatrices – notamment en instaurant une redevance internationale de solidarité sur l’extraction des combustibles fossiles, au moyen de mécanismes juridiquement contraignants et transparents.

    Et ce, d’ici à l’année prochaine.

    Et ce en tenant compte du fait que pour les responsables, l’heure des comptes a sonné.

    Les pollueurs doivent payer.

    Excellences,

    L’essor rapide des nouvelles technologies est une autre menace existentielle dont les conséquences sont imprévisibles.

    L’intelligence artificielle transformera notre monde du tout au tout : le travail, mais aussi l’éducation, la communication, la culture ou encore la politique.

    Nous savons que l’intelligence artificielle progresse rapidement, mais où nous mène-t-elle ?

    Vers plus de liberté ou plus de conflits ?

    Vers un monde plus durable ou de plus grandes inégalités ?

    Serons-nous mieux informés ou plus faciles à manipuler ?

    Une poignée d’entreprises et même de particuliers ont déjà acquis un pouvoir immense grâce au développement de l’intelligence artificielle, sans, pour le moment, avoir véritablement à rendre des comptes et sans grand contrôle.

    Faute de mesures mondiales pour en gérer le déploiement, l’intelligence artificielle risque d’engendrer des divisions artificielles dans tous les domaines, de donner lieu à une grande fracture entre deux internets, deux marchés et deux économies et, ainsi, de faire naître une situation où chaque pays serait contraint de choisir un camp, ce qui serait lourd de conséquences pour l’humanité tout entière.

    L’ONU est une instance universelle de dialogue et de consensus.

    Elle est particulièrement bien placée pour promouvoir la coopération en ce qui concerne l’intelligence artificielle, sur la base des valeurs de la Charte et du droit international.

    C’est dans cette enceinte, et nulle part ailleurs, que les membres de la communauté internationale débattent.

    Je salue les premières mesures importantes qui ont été prises.

    Deux résolutions de l’Assemblée générale, le Pacte numérique mondial et les recommandations de l’Organe consultatif de haut niveau sur l’intelligence artificielle, peuvent asseoir les bases d’une gouvernance inclusive de l’intelligence artificielle.

    Ensemble, faisons de l’intelligence artificielle une force au service du bien.

    Excellences,

    Rien n’est éternel.

    Mais l’humanité a ceci de particulier qu’elle croit le contraire.

    L’ordre en place a toujours l’air d’être indémontable.

    Jusqu’au jour où tout bascule.

    L’histoire de l’humanité a été marquée par l’essor et la chute d’empires, l’effondrement de vieilles certitudes et de véritables séismes sur le théâtre du monde.

    Aujourd’hui, nous allons droit dans le mur.

    Il est dans notre intérêt à toutes et à tous de gérer les transformations colossales qui sont en cours, de déterminer l’avenir que nous voulons et de faciliter son avènement dans le monde.

    Beaucoup pensent que les divisions et les divergences d’aujourd’hui sont insurmontables,

    Que nous ne parviendrons pas à nous rassembler pour le bien commun.

    Vous avez prouvé que ce n’était pas le cas.

    Le Sommet de l’avenir a montré que nous pouvons unir nos forces dans un esprit de dialogue et de compromis pour engager le monde sur une voie plus durable.

    Ce n’est pas une fin.

    Ce n’est que le début, une boussole dans la tempête.

    Il faut continuer sur cette lancée.

    Ne ménageons pas nos efforts : pour lutter contre l’impunité et renforcer le respect du principe de responsabilité… pour moins d’inégalités et plus de justice… pour échapper à l’incertitude et élargir le champ des possibles.

    Les populations du monde entier comptent sur nous, et les générations futures nous jugeront à l’aune de ce que nous aurons accompli.

    Nous devons ne pas les décevoir. Nous devons être à la hauteur de la Charte des Nations Unies… de nos valeurs et principes communs… et du bon côté de l’histoire.

    Et je vous remercie.
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI: Carbeeza Inc. Announces Convertible Debenture Offering

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    /NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES. ANY FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THIS RESTRICTION MAY CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF U.S. SECURITIES LAWS./

    CALGARY, Alberta, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Carbeeza Inc. (“Carbeeza” or the “Company“) (TSXV:AUTO) (OTCQB: CRBAF), is pleased to announce a non-brokered private placement (the “Private Placement“) of 12% convertible unsecured debentures (the “Debentures“) for gross aggregate proceeds of up to $1,500,000. The net proceeds of the Debenture offering will be used by the Company to scale up the marketing campaign and for general corporate purposes. The Debentures have an issue price of $1,000 per Debenture and will bear interest at a rate of 12% per annum, payable in arrears on the maturity date. The Debentures will mature on the date that is twenty four months from the date of issuance. The Company concurrently announces that it has closed the first tranche of Debentures, closing on aggregate proceeds of $300,000.

    The Debentures will be convertible at any time prior to maturity at the option of the holders into units (“Units“) of the Company at a conversion price of $0.10 per common share (“Common Share”). The Units will consist of one Common Share and one full common share purchase warrant (“Warrant“) exercisable for a period of twenty four months from the closing date at a price of $0.20 per Warrant.

    At the Company’s option and subject to the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange (“TSXV”), any interest as may become due and payable on the outstanding principal amount may be satisfied by the issuance to the debenture holder of such number of Common Shares equal to the amount of interest payable divided by the greater of (i) the volume weighted average trading price of the Common Shares for the thirty (30) consecutive Trading Days ending on the fifth Trading Day before such date on the TSXV (“VWAP”); and (ii) the Market Price (as defined in TSXV Policy 1.1) on the date that the interest becomes payable. Also, at any time after the date that is one year from the date of the Debenture, the Company may issue a Forced Conversion Notice for the forced conversion of the principal amount of the then outstanding Debentures at the Conversion Price on not less than 30 days’ notice if the VWAP is greater than $0.30 for any 20 consecutive trading days on the TSXV.

    The Debentures, Common Shares and the Warrant Shares will be subject to a four month and one day hold period from the date of issuance in accordance with applicable securities laws and the policies of the Exchange. The Private Placement is expected to close on or around October 1, 2024 or such other date as may be determined by the directors of the Company.

    The Private Placement will be conducted pursuant to available prospectus exemptions including sales to accredited investors, family members, close friends and business associates of directors and officers of the Company, and to existing shareholders of the Company pursuant to the exemption set out in Alberta Securities Commission Rule 45-516 (Prospectus Exemptions for Retail Investors and Existing Security Holders) (the “Existing Shareholder Exemption“).

    The closing of the Private Placement is subject to regulatory approval including but not limited to, the approval of the TSXV.

    The remaining tranches of the Private Placement are expected to close on such date(s) as may be determined by the directors of the Company. The closing of the Private Placement is subject to regulatory approval including but not limited to, the approval of the TSXV.

    This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “U.S. Securities Act”) or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.

    Carbeeza Inc.
    Carbeeza is a Canadian-based software company whose platform is targeted to the automotive marketplace. It is the first application to harness the power of Artificial Intelligence to accurately predict the best financing scenario for consumers, all while keeping the consumer anonymous. Using state-of-the-art technology, Carbeeza brings the process of buying a car right to the phone, tailor-made for the consumer. Carbeeza is highly beneficial to both consumers and auto dealers.

    ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF CARBEEZA INC.
    Sandro Torrieri, Chief Executive Officer

    Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    Certain information set forth in this news release contains forward-looking statements or information (“forward-looking statements”). By their nature, forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, some of which are beyond the Company’s control, including the impact of general economic conditions, industry conditions, volatility of commodity prices, currency fluctuations, environmental risks, operational risks, competition from other industry participants, stock market volatility, and the ability to access sufficient capital from internal and external sources. Although the Company believes that the expectations in its forward-looking statements are reasonable, its forward-looking statements have been based on factors and assumptions concerning future events which may prove to be inaccurate. Those factors and assumptions are based upon currently available information. Such statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could influence actual results or events and cause actual results or events to differ materially from those stated, anticipated or implied in the forward-looking statements. Accordingly, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements, as no assurance can be provided as to future results, levels of activity or achievements. Risks, uncertainties, material assumptions and other factors that could affect actual results are discussed in our public disclosure documents available at www.sedar.com. Furthermore, the forward-looking statements contained in this document are made as of the date of this document and, except as required by applicable law, the Company does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or to revise any of the included forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. The forward-looking statements contained in this document are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

    For further information please contact:
    Sandro Torrieri, Chief Executive Officer
    Email: Investorrelations@carbeeza.com
    Telephone: 1-855-216-8802
    Website: www.carbeeza.com  

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FACT SHEET: The United  States Commitment to Address the Global Mpox  Outbreak

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    “Now we face the mpox outbreak in Central and Eastern Africa. Mpox is different from COVID-19. But we will act quickly – and bring partners with us. We are prepared to commit at least $500 million – to support African countries to prevent and respond to mpox and donate up to one million doses of mpox vaccines. We call on governments, charities, and businesses to match our pledge – and make this a $1 billion commitment to the people of Africa.” —President Biden, September 24, 2024
    The United States has led global efforts to combat infectious diseases, including mpox, for decades. Most recently in 2022, the Biden-Harris Administration mounted a robust response to the spread of clade IIb mpox by making vaccines available to those at risk, making testing more convenient, and providing treatments to those who needed them both in the United States and worldwide. In response to the ongoing mpox outbreak in Eastern and Central Africa, with several cases outside the region, the United States is acting quickly and decisively to support the response, and to prepare for potential cases domestically. On September 16, the White House welcomed key partners and community stakeholders working on mpox in the United States and around the world to a roundtable with U.S. Government leadership to exchange ideas, feedback and recommendations to inform the U.S. response to this global crisis.
    This week, President Biden announced that the United States is committed to providingat least $500 million dollars, as well as one million mpox vaccine doses, to support African countries to prevent and respond to the current mpox outbreak. These investments will be delivered both bilaterally, through existing relationships with partner countries, as well as through multilateral institutions. United States investments in mpox preparedness and response will address a range of needs outlined in the Mpox Continental Preparedness and Response Plan jointly issued by the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO), including training frontline health workers, disease surveillance, laboratory diagnostic supplies and testing, clinical case management, risk communication and community engagement, infection prevention and control, and research. In addition to financial support and vaccines, the U.S. Government has surged dozens of staff, including epidemiologists, laboratorians, and risk communication experts to offer support to the mpox response in DRC and each of the countries surrounding DRC.
    BUILDING STRONGER, RESILIENT HEALTH SYSTEMS
    Investments in building stronger health systems are essential to a rapid and effective emergency response. Longstanding United States support, including through the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), helped to strengthen the systems that are now supporting the mpox response.
    Ongoing global health and health security investments. Since the start of the Biden-Harris Administration, the United States has provided more than $50 billion to support global health and health security. The United States is the largest health donor in the Africa region, allocating more than $2.65 billion in bilateral health funding to countries in Central and Eastern Africa in FY 2023 alone.
    Global health security partnerships. In April 2024, the United States announced formal global health security partnerships with 50 countries, including Burundi, DRC, Kenya, and Uganda. Global health security investments make it possible for the United States to address country-identified gaps in their capacity to prevent, detect, respond to, and recover from health security threats. U.S. assistance to the government of DRC, which began in 2015, has bolstered the DRC’s efforts to contain five Ebola outbreaks since 2020, develop an antimicrobial stewardship work plan, and develop a community feedback system to address infectious disease threats.
    President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). For over 20 years, PEPFAR has supported more than 55 countries worldwide, saved more than 25 million lives, enabled 5.5 million babies to be born HIV-free, and prevented millions of new HIV infections. Longstanding PEPFAR investments in creating sustainable HIV care platforms have been leveraged for quick and effective response to cholera, COVID-19, Ebola, H1N1 influenza, tuberculosis, and other health threats. Given the increased risk of severe morbidity and mortality from mpox among people living with HIV, PEPFAR is ensuring program continuity to protect people living with HIV through the use of existing PEPFAR platforms through risk communication, laboratory and surveillance capacity, referral to care, HIV testing, and vaccination delivery to help prevent and respond to mpox.
    SUPPORTING MPOX TESTING, VACCINATION, TREATMENT AND CARE
    Mpox vaccine research and development. Since 2007, the United States, through the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), has invested more than $2 billion in the JYNNEOS vaccine as part of smallpox preparedness. Additionally, U.S. Government research institutions led the development of the JYNNEOS vaccine through preclinical evaluation, clinical trials, and advanced clinical evaluation platforms. These investments directly led to product licensure for both smallpox and mpox. On September 13, WHO announced pre-qualification of the JYNNEOS vaccine for global use, including in the Africa region in response to ongoing mpox outbreaks.
    Mpox vaccine donation. This week President Biden pledged that the United States will donate up to one million doses of the mpox vaccine. The first U.S.-donated vaccine doses arrived in Nigeria in August (10,000 doses), and in DRC in September (50,000 doses). The next installment of the U.S. commitment, 300,000 vaccine doses, will be available immediately for disbursement in coordination with Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance and the WHO Access and Allocation Mechanism. Additional mpox vaccine doses will be delivered in tranches (totaling up to one million) pending country progress in administering the vaccines, in coordination with Gavi.
    Clinical care and protecting health workers. In DRC, the U.S. Government has procured and delivered medical kits containing antibiotics, oral hydration, and wound care supplies to support government facilities to offer mpox patients relief from their symptoms free of charge, which bolsters community trust and connection with the health care system. The U.S. Government is expanding health care worker capacity to treat mpox and offer psychosocial support to patients, while simultaneously training the workers to protect themselves through use of infection prevention and control best practices.
    Diagnostic tests and training. The U.S. Government is also supporting mpox-affected countries with laboratory expertise and diagnostic supplies. This includes: providing over 40,000 individual test assays and reagents that ensured that countries in the region had the capacity to detect clade I mpox when it crossed their borders; training dozens of laboratory personnel on the use of mpox test kits and procedures to enhance laboratory safety, hygiene, and waste management; strengthening the reach and availability of rapid diagnostic testing capacity; expanding specimen transportation routes; and establishing platforms for laboratory data management.
    Development and testing of effective therapeutics. The United States Government is leading the ongoing “Study of Tecovirimat for Human Mpox Virus” clinical trial for mpox treatment in the United States and other countries affected by clade II mpox.
    Identifying mpox research priorities. To help prioritize mpox research, the United States released an update on mpox research priorities, focusing on four objectives: (1) increasing knowledge about the biology of all clades, including how the virus is transmitted and how people’s immune systems respond to it; (2) evaluating dosing regimens of current mpox vaccines to stretch the vaccine supply and developing novel vaccine concepts; (3) advancing existing and novel treatments, including antivirals and monoclonal antibodies; and (4) supporting strategies for detecting the virus to facilitate clinical care and epidemiological surveillance.
    LEVERAGING STRONG MULTILATERAL PARTNERSHIPS
    As with investments in health systems, building stronger and more effective multilateral institutions between emergencies is essential to ensuring the world is prepared to respond effectively in times of crisis. The United States supports the critical roles of WHO and Africa CDC in leading the mpox response, and we call on those institutions to utilize the strong partnerships that are already in place, including with other multilateral institutions, to protect the health and wellbeing of people living in the affected countries.
    World Health Organization. Among his first acts in office, President Biden declared the United States would reengage with WHO, highlighting our nation’s commitment to advancing multilateral cooperation in a global health crisis. Beyond health emergencies, the United States is collaborating with WHO on a wide range of global health issues such as childhood immunization, nutrition, polio eradication, and strengthening the global health workforce to achieve universal health coverage. Since the beginning of the Biden-Harris Administration, the United States has provided nearly $1.9 billion of support to WHO. In addition, since March 2024, the United States has already provided more than $7.7 million to WHO to support mpox response activities, and $450,000 for building sustainable capacity for mpox elimination in DRC, Burundi, Central African Republic, Republic of Congo, Rwanda, and Uganda. 
    Africa CDC. The United States welcomes and supports the role of Africa CDC as a continent-wide public health institution, established in 2016. In 2022, the U.S. Government signed a Memorandum of Cooperation to Promote Public Health Partnership with the African Union, accompanied by a U.S.-Africa CDC Joint Action Plan outlining shared global health priorities and areas for collaboration. In addition to substantial U.S. bilateral and multilateral support aligned with Africa CDC’s five-year strategic plan and Agenda 2063, the United States provided more than $3 million in direct support to the Africa CDC in the form of in-kind assistance last year alone.
    Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance. Gavi holds essential expertise in effective vaccine procurement, distribution, and administration, which should be leveraged immediately in the mpox response. Since its inception in 2000, the United States Government has invested or announced: 1) over $3.6 billion to improve equitable access to new and underutilized vaccines in low- and middle-income countries; 2) a $4 billion dollar contribution to Gavi’s COVAX Advance Market Commitment; 3) an annual contribution to Gavi’s core budget, including $300 million in 2024 ; 4) and pledged at least $1.58 billion towards USG’s first-ever five-year pledge to Gavi’s next replenishment cycle, subject to Congressional approval. U.S. funding is included in Gavi’s $500 million First Response Fund, which is supporting procurement, delivery, and deployment of 500,000 JYNNEOS doses in response to the mpox outbreak. Finally, affected countries, WHO, Africa CDC, and Gavi recently established the Access and Allocation Mechanism (AAM) as a platform to increase equitable access to mpox response resources and contributions.
    The Quad. The Quad partnership was established in 2020 between the United States, India, Japan and Australia as a global force for good, including working together to help partners address pandemics and disease. During a September 21 Quad Summit, leaders agreed to coordinate efforts to promote equitable access to safe, effective, quality-assured mpox vaccines, including where appropriate expanding vaccine manufacturing in low and middle-income countries.
    Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI). CEPI is working to accelerate the development of life-saving vaccines against emerging disease threats, and to transform capability for rapid countermeasure development in response to future threats.To date, the U.S. Government has invested $117 million through CEPI to accelerated the development of vaccines and other biologic countermeasures against epidemic and pandemic threats. CEPI has funded two scientific studies in Africa (the DRC and Uganda) focused on the JYNNEOS vaccine; it has also supported early clinical development of BioNTech’s next-generation mRNA-based pox vaccine and providing funding to support Bavarian Nordic’s MVA-BN® mpox vaccine clinical trials in DRC, Uganda, and Nigeria through the SMART trial.
    The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. The Global Fund is working to defeat HIV, TB and malaria and ensure a healthier, safer, more equitable future for all. The U.S. is the largest donor to The Global Fund, and President Biden led the largest Global Fund replenishment ever in 2022. In August 2024, in response to the evolving mpox outbreak, the Global Fund quickly pivoted to update its guidance in order to direct grant funds to help eligible countries to prevent, detect, and respond to mpox outbreaks. Earlier this month, Global Fund committed an additional $9.5 million to support DRC’s mpox response.
    UNICEF. As the lead UN agency for children, UNICEF works in over 190 countries to save children’s lives and to support health and development. To date, the U.S. has provided UNICEF with more than $1.4 million to support clade I mpox preparedness and response activities in DRC, Burundi, and the Republic of Congo. UNICEF supports risk communication and community engagement, clinical services, psychosocial support, and coordination.
    United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR). As the lead UN agency for refugees, UNHCR provides vital protection and assistance to refugees, asylum-seekers, internally displaced and stateless people. Through UNHCR, the United States has provided nearly $9 million in humanitarian assistance this year to address urgent mpox-related needs among refugees, internally-displaced persons, host communities and other vulnerable populations in 14 countries throughout Africa.
    International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). IFRC is the world’s largest humanitarian network working in more than 190 countries through a network of more than 16 million volunteers. To date, the U.S. Government has provided IFRC with $800,000 to support clade I mpox preparedness and response activities in DRC. IFRC supports risk communication and community engagement, clinical services, psychosocial support, and coordination.
    EXPANDING HEALTH EMERGENCY FINANCING
    In addition to ongoing bilateral and multilateral support to build stronger health systems, respond to ongoing health challenges, and pivot to address the current mpox crisis, the United States supports expanded sources of financing for response to health emergencies. Many of these have been developed and launched since the COVID-19 pandemic to address gaps identified through that response.
    The Pandemic Fund. As the only multilateral fund fully focused on prevention and preparedness, the Pandemic Fund has a critical role to play in building capacity to end the current outbreak and prevent the next one. The Pandemic Fund has taken quick action to support mpox preparedness efforts, approving $129 million to support 10 countries impacted by the disease to strengthen laboratory, surveillance, and human resources capacities. The selected projects meet needs articulated in the joint WHO-Africa CDC Mpox Continental Preparedness and Response Plan for Africa. The awards will be implemented over multiple years enabling an effective transition from crisis to long term preparedness. To continue its critical work, the Pandemic Fund is engaged in a concurrent resource mobilization round, with the goal of raising at least $2 billion in new funding through 2026. The United States has committed to provide up to $667 million, subject to Congressional appropriations and the availability of funds.
    Gavi’s Day Zero Financing Facility. The United States has supported Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance in establishing the Day Zero Financing Facility, a suite of tools that will mobilize, for example, up to $2 billion in risk-tolerant surge and contingent capital to enable Gavi to quickly meet the demand for vaccines in a pandemic.
    U.S. Development Finance Corporation (DFC) Health Emergency Financing: The DFC finances private-sector led solutions to health services, supply chain, and technology challenges in low- and middle-income countries. These solutions improve health system resilience and pandemic preparedness through: 1) a $1 billion-dollar rapid financing facility applicable to a full spectrum of vaccines (COVID-19, childhood vaccine-preventable diseases, and future outbreaks); 2) investments in regional, Africa-based vaccine manufacturing, including Aspen Pharmacare (South Africa) and Institute Pasteur de Dakar (Senegal); and 3) a G7 Surge Financing Initiative for Medical Countermeasures that supports Gavi and regional vaccine manufacturers.
    Multilateral development bank (MDB) evolution. MDBs have a key role to play in helping countries address global challenges, such as climate change, pandemics, and fragility and conflict. The United States is working with other shareholders to evolve the visions, incentive structures, operational approaches, and financial capacity of the MDBs to equip these institutions to respond to global challenges with sufficient speed and scale. The United States is pleased to see the close coordination between the World Bank, IMF, and regional development banks with WHO and affected countries on how to best utilize or reprogram resources to aid the mpox response.
    —-
    To learn more about mpox, its signs and symptoms, vaccines, prevention, and treatments, please visit the U.S. CDC website.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Department of Defense Awards $16.2 Million to Establish Comprehensive Domestic Tin Processing for National Hardware

    Source: United States Department of Defense

    The Department of Defense announced today a $16.2 million award via the Defense Production Act Investment (DPAI) program to Nathan Trotter & Co., Inc. (Nathan Trotter) to establish a domestic facility to build comprehensive capacity for the smelting, refining, and recycling of tin in Coatesville, Pennsylvania.

    Tin is indispensable to many defense applications, such as soldering to enable electrical connections in semiconductors, high-end capacitors, and other electronic components in nearly all military hardware and essential civilian infrastructure. Nathan Trotter will design the facility so that, in time, it can be readily expanded to produce an even higher proportion of the U.S. annual tin requirement.

    “Tin refinement and processing capacity is essential for both defense and commercial aviation and microelectronics,” said Dr. Laura Taylor-Kale, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy (ASD(IBP)). “This first Defense Production Act investment in the tin industrial base will directly counter the United States’ reliance on foreign tin refiners and reduce supply chain vulnerabilities.”

    “Establishing this comprehensive tin processing facility will help secure the continuous flow of primary tin materials from friendly sources, countering Chinese efforts to monopolize the global supply, as well as mitigate smelting supply chain vulnerabilities,” added Mr. Anthony Di Stasio, Director of the Manufacturing Capability Expansion and Investment Prioritization (MCEIP) directorate within OASD(IBP). “In addition, this facility will enhance recycling to ensure tin remains onshore.”

    This is the latest of 59 awards made by the DPAI program across multiple areas totaling $589 million since the beginning of fiscal year 2024. This effort supports the National Defense Industrial Strategy’s priority to expand support for domestic production of critical minerals.

    For more information on MCEIP, please visit: https://www.businessdefense.gov/ibr/mceip/index.html

    About the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy (OASD(IBP))
    The OASD(IBP) works with domestic and international partners to forge and sustain a robust, secure, and resilient industrial base enabling the warfighter, now and in the future.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: GL Automates T1, E1 and Datacom Testing with Python Scripting Support

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    GAITHERSBURG, Md., Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — GL Communications Inc., a global leader in telecom test and measurement solutions, addressed the press regarding their tProbe™, an advanced tool for T1, E1 and Datacom testing. Automation has become essential for running repetitive and complex testing scenarios. The tProbe™ supports Python scripting, and GL provides sample scripts to assist the user. This allows smooth, automated workflows that save time and reduce errors.

    [For illustration, refer to https://www.gl.com/images/Newsletter/tprobe-with-python-client.jpg]

    Vijay Kulkarni, CEO of GL Communications, states, “GL’s tProbe™ T1 E1 Datacom analyzer is a versatile platform for generating, receiving, and monitoring traffic on legacy networks. It supports various test traffic including bit error rate testing, tones, digits and audio files. Additionally, it can emulate telecom protocols such as SS7, CAS, and ISDN. The tProbe™ connects to a host Windows® PC via USB, and its accompanying software features an intuitive graphical user interface. Users can easily configure tests, visualize data and export reports.”

    The tProbe™ Datacom Analyzer is designed for the installation, verification, and maintenance of Datacom equipment. With a software-selectable interface, it emulates both Data Terminal Equipment (DTE) and Data Communications Equipment (DCE), monitors Datacom lines, and supports both synchronous (sync) and asynchronous (async) modes of operation.

    GL’s Windows Client/Server (WCS) software enables users to perform remote operations, automate tasks, and connect to multiple tProbe™ devices. The Windows Client Python Module (WCPM) provides a Python interface for WCS, allowing Python programs to connect to one or more WCS instances, execute commands, and receive responses.

    The Python client connects to multiple WCS, controlling tProbe™ devices across locations via TCP/IP. This enables easy end-to-end testing with live analysis and visualization. GL offers sample Python scripts, a comprehensive Application Programming Interface manual, and provides support for debugging customer scripts via email or interactive sessions.

    [For more information, refer to Python Sample Script and Bit Error Rate Test Results]

    Key features of the tProbe™ T1 E1 Datacom Analyzer include:

    • Python scripting support on both Windows® and Linux® operating systems
    • Framed and unframed transmission/reception of T1 E1 signals
    • Intrusive/non-intrusive T1 E1 testing
    • Protocol emulation including ISDN, CAS and SS7
    • Monitoring and testing of multiple site locations from a single client
    • Shared use of tProbe™ devices from multiple client locations
    • Integration of T1 E1 testing into more complex testing systems
    • Allows full control of DTE/DCE configurations for flexible testing on Datacom networks
    • Run Bit Error Rate Tests on DTE/DCE Interface
    • Supports DTE/DCE emulation for comprehensive end-to-end testing and bidirectional monitoring for enhanced troubleshooting of data networks

    About GL Communications Inc.,

    GL Communications is a global provider of telecom test and measurement solutions. GL’s solutions are used to verify the quality and reliability of Wireless (Satcom, 5G, 4G, 3G, 2G), SONET/SDH, Ethernet/IP, TDM, and PSTN networks.

    Warm Regards,

    Vikram Kulkarni, PhD

    Phone: 301-670-4784 x114

    Email: info@gl.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Sheikh Al Maktoum NEO Technologies Explores Investment Opportunities with Panama

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sheikh Al Maktoum NEO Technologies hosted a pivotal meeting at its Dubai offices with key officials from the Republic of Panama, signaling a potential new chapter of economic cooperation and investment between the innovative technology firm and the Latin American country.

    The discussions focused on unlocking strategic partnerships that could drive substantial mutual benefits in the sectors of finance, technology, and trade.

    In attendance were H.E. Eduardo Arango, Vice Minister of Domestic Trade of the Republic of Panama, Mr. Mickael Mosse, CEO and Founder of Sheikh Al Maktoum NEO Technologies, and Dr. Munir Ahmad, CEO of the Royal Office of H.H. Sheikh Abdul Hakim Al Maktoum. These influential figures engaged in comprehensive talks aimed at fostering investment ties, particularly in fintech and emerging technologies, where Sheikh Al Maktoum NEO Technologies has established itself as a leading force.

    “We see immense potential in collaborating with Panama, a country that serves as a gateway to the Latin American market,” said Mr. Mickael Mosse. “At Sheikh Al Maktoum NEO Technologies, we are continuously seeking strategic investment opportunities that align with our vision of driving innovation and expanding our global footprint. Panama presents a unique opportunity for us to bring our expertise in blockchain, AI, and digital banking to new markets, enhancing the technological landscape and facilitating stronger economic growth for both parties.”

    H.E. Eduardo Arango echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the mutual benefits of such cooperation. He said: “Panama is eager to explore partnerships that will enhance our financial and technological sectors. Sheikh Al Maktoum NEO Technologies has a proven track record in these fields, and we are excited about the possibilities that this collaboration could bring. This meeting is the first step in creating a framework for long-term investment and economic cooperation between our two entities.”

    One of the core aspects of the discussions revolved around the role of fintech in reshaping international trade and investment flows. Sheikh Al Maktoum NEO Technologies, renowned for its cutting-edge innovations in these areas, is poised to offer Panama access to technological solutions that could streamline trade, improve financial inclusion, and drive economic growth. Both parties explored joint ventures and investment vehicles that could fuel innovation, particularly in sectors like digital banking, cross-border payment systems, and sustainable technology infrastructure.

    Dr. Munir Ahmad underscored the importance of building sustainable and forward-looking investment partnerships. He said: “The exchange of ideas and expertise between Sheikh Al Maktoum NEO Technologies and Panama is key to realizing impactful growth. We are not just looking at immediate gains, but how we can co-create long-term value through collaborative projects that will benefit the economies and technological advancements in both regions.”

    The meeting on 23 September 2024 sets the stage for a future of heightened cooperation, with Sheikh Al Maktoum NEO Technologies eyeing Panama as a strategic partner in its broader global expansion strategy. By leveraging Panama’s unique position in Latin America and Sheikh Al Maktoum NEO Technologies’ leadership in fintech, the two sides are laying the foundation for significant investments that could transform the way trade and finance are conducted across borders.

    As discussions progress, the company remains committed to advancing international partnerships that not only bolster its position as a leader in technology but also contribute to economic progress and innovation in the markets it enters.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1397f13f-7b23-479d-b3e3-8de07006080f

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: HP Transforms the Future of Work

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    News Highlights:

    • Unleashes flexibility and style for freelancers and creators with HP’s first 2-in-1 next-gen AI PC, the HP OmniBook Ultra Flip
    • Introduces the first HP EliteBook X, the world’s most powerful next-gen AI business notebook1 for tech experts and business consultants, with up to an industry-leading 55 TOPS of NPU performance2
    • Unveils innovative memory architecture that revolutionizes on-device AI, delivering lightning-fast performance for the most complex workflows
    • Redefines workspaces with the industry’s broadest portfolio of AI-enabled multi-camera capable video conferencing solutions3
    • Empowers on-demand performance for data scientists and AI developers with Z by HP Boost, the world’s first workstation solution for on-demand GPU compute, turning the workstation into a shareable resource4         

    PALO ALTO, Calif., Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Today at HP Imagine, HP Inc. (NYSE: HPQ) announced the company’s newest innovations, including next-gen AI PCs, AI-enabled video conferencing solutions, and a scalable GPU performance sharing solution for AI developers – all designed to transform the future of work.

    “HP is deeply ambitious in its commitment to reshape the way people work, fostering growth, nurturing creativity, and unleashing limitless innovation,” said Alex Cho, President of Personal Systems at HP Inc. “We’re bringing AI to life and delivering powerful new experiences through our next-gen AI PCs, advanced audio and video solutions, and innovative AI development platform.”

    Transforming the Way People Work and Play

    AI is transforming the way people feel about work. According to the 2024 HP Work Relationship Index, 68% of knowledge workers believe AI creates new opportunities to enjoy work, and 73% believe AI makes their job easier. Those who use AI are 11-points happier with their relationship with work than their colleagues who don’t. The future of work requires high-performing, AI-powered PCs and solutions that push the limits of what’s possible while freeing up time to focus on what matters.

    Flexible Style and Performance Without Compromise: The OmniBook Ultra Flip

    Designed for freelancers and creators, the HP OmniBook Ultra Flip 14-inch Next-Gen AI PC is HP’s first next-gen AI PC 2-in-1 laptop, offering uncompromising style, performance, and flexibility for those seeking the perfect AI creation experience. The device delivers:

    • Designed to inspire: Create, edit, and sketch on an ultra-thin form factor that easily switches between laptop, tablet, and tent modes. A stunning 3K OLED display offers an immersive visual experience to draw or review creative designs.5 Personalize content generation on the world’s first next-gen AI convertible PC with inking and a haptic touchpad.6 Collaborate with others clearly and crisply with the device’s 9 MP AI camera and Poly Audio.
    • Balanced power and performance: On-the-go creators can confidently create on a device engineered to be cool and quiet – yet performant. The OmniBook Ultra Flip leverages the Intel® Core™ Ultra processor (Series 2)7 with a dedicated AI engine,8 delivering up to 20 hours of battery life (local video playback)9 for a seamless creation experience.
    • Trusted security powered by AI: HP Wolf Security for consumers includes a unique security chip and self-healing PC core for professional-level security, keeping data secure and protecting against cyber-threats.10 McAfee Smart AI™ Deepfake Detector detects AI-generated audio to warn users of potential fraud or misinformation.11
    • Sustainability for today and tomorrow: HP remains committed to reducing environmental impact and optimizing energy efficiency. The OmniBook Ultra Flip is built with 90% recycled metals, 50% post-consumer recycled plastics,12 and an EPEAT® Gold with Climate+ and ENERGY STAR® certified design.13

    Pushing the Envelope for Tech-Forward Leaders: The HP EliteBook X

    Empowering tech experts and business consultants to tackle intense workflows locally and in the cloud, the HP EliteBook X 14-inch Next-Gen AI PC delivers ultimate power, performance, and security so workers can prioritize what they love while AI takes care of the rest. As the first EliteBook X in HP’s Commercial PC lineup, this device unlocks:

    • Turbocharged productivity: For power users requiring high-performance computing for content creation, data analysis, and AI-driven applications, HP developed a memory architecture with an impressive 8000 Mbps on 64 GB of LPDDR5x RAM for high-speed AI processing. The PC also harnesses a next-generation AMD Ryzen™ PRO processor14 enabling up to an industry-leading 55 TOPS of NPU performance for demanding workloads.1 HP Smart Sense paired with 40W Thermal Design Power (TDP) and dual turbo high density fans drive fast responsiveness with cool and quiet performance. 15
    • Intuitive collaboration: Conduct meetings from anywhere and show up authentically with the device’s new AI-enhanced webcam sensor for more accurate presence detection and adaptive dimming. Audio tuning by Poly Studio provides crystal-clear conferencing experiences with AI noise reduction and HP Dynamic Voice Leveling to optimize voice clarity.16
    • Industry-leading protection enhanced by AI: The world’s most secure next-gen AI PC17 and the first next-gen AI PC with quantum hack protection18 protects the most sensitive data without sacrificing performance. Wolf Security offloads processor-intensive security tasks to the NPU to preserve the CPU for all-day productivity. HP’s Endpoint Security Controller19 future-proofs the device against evolving threats, and intentional features are built into the device, including onlooker detection,16 which utilizes an AI-powered webcam sensor to alert users when prying eyes are detected and automatically blur the screen if needed.
    • Sustainable innovations protecting our planet: As part of the world’s most sustainable PC portfolio,20 the device is responsibly crafted with a heat plate made with at least 50% recycled copper21 and bezels containing at least 20% recycled cooking oil.22

    Personalization Built-In: HP AI Companion & Poly Camera Pro

    HP’s next-gen AI PCs are equipped with AI Companion23 and Poly Camera Pro,24 which personalize and optimize a user’s experience for greater productivity and collaboration.

    • Interact intuitively: AI Companion uses generative AI to help people analyze private files and discover information to refine and create content or respond quickly and accurately to key tasks. The Perform assistant helps users optimize PC performance, customize settings, and troubleshoot HP products.
    • Collaborate clearly: Poly Camera Pro utilizes the NPU to power webcam features like Spotlight and Background Blur & Replace to maintain CPU performance more efficiently while preserving battery life.

    Enabling Companies to Build AI

    GPU access is often a scarce resource for a company’s most valuable resource, data scientists and AI developers. As AI workloads grow exponentially, 81% of data scientists believe AI makes their job more fulfilling.25Z by HP Boost solves for scarcity by maximizing GPU utilization to deliver secure, scalable, and on-demand performance to meet rising AI demands, enhance productivity, and accelerate development.

    Z by HP Boost is an industry-first solution that revolutionizes GPU sharing across HP AI workstations:

    • On-demand performance: Delivers instant access to GPU resources, with the flexibility needed to perform complex computations and manage large datasets.
    • Enterprise optimization: Provides companies a more efficient way to allocate and fully utilize its GPU resources, reducing the reliance on costly cloud instances and increasing productivity.

    Both Z by HP Boost and the Z by HP Gen AI Lab solutions further extend HP’s AI creation center as the most comprehensive workstation solution for AI development.26 The Z by HP Gen AI Lab provides a built-in trust layer for large language model (LLM) development to detect and correct bias. With streamlined data management, standardized tools, and integration of trust, HP’s AI creation center maximizes the efficiency and impact of valuable AI.

    Transforming Where People Work

    People work in different places throughout the workday, whether in a meeting room, at the desk, or on the go. 72% of knowledge workers say having access to technology that best suits their work style is important.27 HP offers a range of products and solutions that make it easier for people to be their most collaborative and productive.

    Authentic Connection and Collaboration: Poly Studio Video Bars, Poly VideoOS, and Poly Lens

    HP is expanding AI integration across various room sizes and collaboration setups. Whether small or large rooms, BYOD or appliance-based, Windows or Android, video bar or modular, HP provides multi-camera, AI-driven experiences for genuine connection and improved collaboration.

    HP’s newest additions to the industry’s broadest portfolio of AI-enabled multi-camera capable video conferencing solutions28 include the Poly Studio X32 and Poly Studio X72 all-in-one video bars and Poly Studio V32 and Poly Studio V72 premium USB video bars.

    The latest Poly VideoOS 4.4 software brings new AI capabilities to devices already installed in meeting rooms. With live setup for Poly DirectorAI Perimeter, IT administrators can configure smart camera boundaries in real-time, ensuring that only participants in the meeting space are captured. Poly NoiseBlockAI v2 utilizes machine learning technology and advanced noise filtering to eliminate reverberations caused by glass walls and reflective surfaces. 

    Poly Labs is a new program that provides customers with early access to experimental features. For example, VoiceScoreAI is a program feature that provides an analysis of audio quality in meeting rooms and suggests ways to enhance the overall experience. 

    HP is enhancing its Poly Lens cloud management platform and private cloud infrastructure with more customized and secure options. Poly Lens Premium includes advanced features like Remote Room Control for IT admins to troubleshoot and resolve issues remotely, saving time and assisting users in meeting rooms. Poly CloudConnect for Zoom Rooms offers participants the flexibility to join Microsoft Teams calls from Zoom Rooms with a robust interface, dual monitor support, and content sharing. Poly PrivateConnect Meeting Control offers greater flexibility and configuration options for customers in secure and controlled video environments using the PrivateConnect cloud infrastructure.

    HP is also harnessing its expertise in audio, video, and computing to take video conferencing to the next level to create more meaningful interactions. HP is partnering with Google to bring Project Starline technology to the workplace, delivering a breakthrough communications solution that uses advanced AI and 3D imaging to create an immersive experience that goes beyond traditional video calls. It makes participants feel like they are sitting across the table in the same room. Interested parties can make reservations for priority delivery for the first available units shipping in 2025.

    Personalizing Audio and Visual Experiences

    As AI enables more immersive experiences at home and in the office, the role audio and visual technologies play has never been more important. 70% of Work Relationship Index respondents say it’s important to have access to technology that allows everybody to be seen and heard regardless of where they are.27 And HP’s broad portfolio of audio and visual solutions equip any environment to make work and play more captivating and enjoyable than ever before.

    Versatility Redefined: HyperX Cloud MIX™2

    The HyperX Cloud MIX™2 takes flexibility to the next level with personalized, HyperX Signature Sound. Its over-ear headset design featuring plush memory foam earcups and up to 110 hours of battery life via Bluetooth29 offer all-day comfort and power that’s perfect for gaming on the go, music, or work calls. Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation blocks out distractions, and the Transparency feature keeps users aware of surroundings. Dual wireless options – 2.4GHz USB-C dongle and Bluetooth® 5.3 LE Audio ensure seamless connectivity. Enjoy ultra-low latency for gaming and fast-paced activities, with crystal-clear communication thanks to AI-enhanced microphones.

    Powering Up Productivity: HP Series 5 Pro

    For today’s workers to be successful, the new HP Series 5 Pro Monitors enable productivity for any work environment by providing large canvases for AI workflows and high refresh rates for AI-assisted design and content creation. Featuring eight models ranging in sizes from 23.8 inches to 34 inches, the monitors are the world’s broadest commercial mainstream monitor series with 100W USB-C power delivery.30 The three-sided borderless display with a micro-edge bezel design enables users to seamlessly connect, charge, and power PCs through one USB-C cable for data and video.

    The Series 5 Pro portfolio immerses individuals in their work environment and helps limit distractions with integrated AI noise reduction.17 Collaborate confidently and securely with the integrated Poly Studio 5MP pop-up tiltable webcam, which secures the device easily with the Auto Lock & Awake feature. This capability detects the user’s presence to instantly wake the system and dims or locks the PC when the user walks away.

    Pricing and Availability31

    • The HP OmniBook Ultra Flip 14 Next-Gen AI PC is available now on HP.com starting at $1,449.99.
    • The HP EliteBook X 14-inch Next-Gen AI PC is expected to be available on HP.com in December. Pricing will be announced closer to availability.
    • Z by HP Boost is expected to be available in early 2025 in the US and UK. Pricing will be available to customers closer to availability.
    • Poly Studio X72 is available now for $6,999.
    • Poly Studio V72 is expected to be available in late 2024 for $4,999.
    • Poly Studio X32 is expected to be available in January 2025. Pricing will be available to customers closer to availability.
    • Poly Studio V32 is expected to be available in March 2025. Pricing will be available to customers closer to availability.
    • Poly VideoOS 4.4 is expected to be available in November.
    • Poly Labs is expected to be available in November.
    • Poly Lens Premium is a free trial for all Poly Lens customers and will transition to a paid service in the coming months.
    • Poly CloudConnect for Zoom Rooms is available now.
    • Poly PrivateConnect Meeting Control is expected to be available in November.
    • The HyperX Cloud MIX™2 is expected to be available in late September on HyperX.com for $199.99.
    • Select HP Series 5 Pro Monitors are available now at HP.com for a starting price of $192. The full lineup is expected to be available in November.

    More information on today’s news at HP Imagine can be found here.

    About HP

    HP Inc. (NYSE: HPQ) is a global technology leader and creator of solutions that enable people to bring their ideas to life and connect to the things that matter most. Operating in more than 170 countries, HP delivers a wide range of innovative and sustainable devices, services and subscriptions for personal computing, printing, 3D printing, hybrid work, gaming, and more. For more information, please visit http://www.hp.com.

    1 Based on HP’s internal analysis of next-gen AI business notebooks with a 40-60 TOPS NPU with pre-installed encryption, authentication, malware protection and BIOS-level protection and passing MIL-STD testing. Most powerful based on 55 TOPS NPU and up to 64GB LPDDR5x-8000MT/s memory as of September 2024.
    2 Features and software that require a NPU may require software purchase, subscription or enablement by a software or platform provider, and third-party software may have specific configuration or compatibility requirements. Potential NPU inferencing performance varies by use, configuration, and other factors.​
    3 Based on HP’s internal analysis of video conferencing solutions dedicated to the sole purpose of collaborating with in-room and remote audiences. Video conferencing solutions include modular and video bar room types defined as Bring-your-own-device (BYOD), PC-based with Zoom and Teams certifications, and all-in-one (includes built-in microphones, speakers, camera, and cloud video apps). Sizes are defined as small, medium, and large as advertised. Pending availability of pre-announced products – Poly Studio E360, Poly Studio V72, Poly Studio X32, and Poly Studio V32. Analysis done on 7/31/24.
    4 Based on HP’s internal analysis of OEM branded workstation software that can access a networked workstation GPU directly instead of the entire workstation for processing intense data science GPU enabled workloads. Workstations defined as having a minimum 3 ISV certs, configurable professional graphics, and a dedicated workstation brand as of September 2024.
    5 All performance specifications represent the typical specifications provided by HP’s component manufacturers; actual performance may vary either higher or lower.
    6 HP internal analysis based on all Next Gen AI convertible PCs in the market as of September 2024.
    7 Multi-core is designed to improve performance of certain software products. Not all customers or software applications will necessarily benefit from use of this technology. Performance and clock frequency will vary depending on application workload and your hardware and software configurations. Intel’s numbering is not a measurement of clock speed.
    8 Features and software that require a NPU may require software purchase, subscription or enablement by a software or platform provider, and third-party software may have specific configuration or compatibility requirements. Potential NPU inferencing performance varies by use, configuration, software and other factors.
    9 Battery life tested by HP using continuous FHD video playback, 1080p (1920×1080) resolution, 200 nits brightness, system audio level as image default, player audio level at 100%, played full-screen from local storage, headphone attached or through speaker (if no audio jack port), wireless on but not connected. Actual battery life will vary depending on configuration and maximum capacity will naturally decrease with time and usage.
    10 Based on HP Wolf Security support, which includes a hardened HP BIOS with HP Sure Start and Endpoint Security Controller (ESC). Select capabilities require BIOS configuration.
    11 McAfee Deepfake Detection is offered as a 30-day trial feature in addition to the McAfee pre-installed trial. Account subscription required. Must login to the McAfee app and activate the Deep Fake detection feature by consenting to install a browser extension. After trial expiration customers will have an option to add the Deepfake Detection feature with an in-app toggle at any time.
    12 Laptops manufactured with recycled ocean-bound plastic material in product speaker enclosures, recycled aluminum material in product cover and post-consumer recycled plastic in keycaps. Percentage of material contained in each component varies by product.
    13 See www.epeat.net for registration status and tier levels by country.
    14 Multicore is designed to improve performance of certain software products. Not all customers or software applications will necessarily benefit from use of this technology. Performance and clock frequency will vary depending on application workload and your hardware and software configurations. AMD’s numbering, branding and/or naming is not a measurement of higher performance​.
    15 Smart Sense requires the myHP app and Windows 11 OS. Features may vary by platform.
    16 Requires myHP application and Windows OS.​
    17 Based on HP’s unique and comprehensive security capabilities at no additional cost among next gen AI business PCs with a 40-60 TOPS NPU as of September 2024.
    18 Based on HP’s internal analysis of next gen AI PCs with a 40-60 TOPS NPU with a quantum-resistant cryptographic scheme to protect the integrity of UEFI BIOS firmware as of August 2024.
    19 Requires Windows 10 or higher. For supported HP PCs with the latest HP Endpoint Security Controller (Gen 5), click here.
    20 Applies to HP PCs, Workstations, and Displays manufactured after January 2019. Based on most Gold and Silver (including Climate+) EPEAT® registrations and according to IEEE 1680.1-2018 EPEAT®. Status varies by country. Visit www.epeat.net for more information.
    21 Recycled metal is expressed as a percentage of the total weight of the metal according to ISO 14021 definitions for metal parts over 25 grams. Percent of recycled material varies by product. ​
    22 HP EliteBook X bezel contains at least 20% resin that is partially derived from bio-waste such as used cooking oil. Manufactured according to the mass balance approach. ​
    23 HP AI Companion is available preloaded on select HP next gen AI PCs or is available for download from the Microsoft store and requires a HP next gen AI PC with a NPU supporting 40-60 TOPS and requires Windows 11. Perform requires account setup within 30 days of PC boot or enrollment through the HP AI Companion app. Some features require customer upload of local data. Five (5) library 100MB limit each, supported files may vary at launch include pdf, .txt., .docx files.
    24 Requires Windows OS.
    25AI Trends in Data Science Report. July 2024.
    26 Based on HP’s internal analysis of OEMs for workstations with a minimum 3 ISV certs, configurable professional graphics, and a dedicated workstation brand that designs and develops its own software for AI development, an AI team collaboration tool, data science management software with GUI and offers a workstation OEM curated data science software stack as of Feb 2024.
    272024 HP Work Relationship Index.
    28 Based on HP’s internal analysis of video conferencing solutions dedicated to the sole purpose of collaborating with in-room and remote audiences. Video conferencing solutions include modular and vi
    deo bar room types defined as Bring-your-own-device (BYOD), PC-based with Zoom and Teams certifications, and all-in-one (includes built-in microphones, speakers, camera, and cloud video apps). Sizes are defined as small, medium, and large as advertised. Pending availability of pre-announced products – Poly Studio E360, Poly Studio V72, Poly Studio X32, and Poly Studio V32. Analysis done on 7/31/24.
    29 On a single charge using Bluetooth mode with ANC off. Battery life is an estimate and varies depending on many factors, including number of active, idle and asleep hours of use, number of applications running, environmental conditions and features used; actual battery life will vary with usage and environmental condition. The maximum capacity of battery will naturally decrease with time and usage.
    30 Based on HP’s internal analysis of a commercial mainstream monitor series of two or more monitors with similar features, marketed under the same brand, from the same manufacturer in different sizes between 22″-34″ and an online list price of $150-$800 as of September 2024 with 100W USB-C Power Delivery. Broadest refers to most displays in a series. 100W USB-C power delivery refers to an integrated USB-C port on the monitor that can deliver 100W of power to a connected device and is not branded as Thunderbolt. Commercial mainstream refers to a category of business-class displays in the same size and price range that are marketed for general office or home office use as opposed to gaming, creative or specialist use.
    31 Pricing and availability subject to change without notice.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at: 

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/356d94b1-275b-47b6-aac7-296f17c7f856

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0510cad4-fd9a-4cd2-8eb5-b1cc253cac00

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/fbcf6100-2690-4ed8-9e7b-81367d06993b

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/99e0fffe-88e0-49c3-ae23-bc7eb1677981

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d1c4890b-f69f-4f43-8774-b250933e868f

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/99db5234-b7b4-4c56-9ab9-f57f800b3cd8

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: 3 imagery updates to Google Earth and Maps

    Source: Google

    Our world is in constant motion. Cities expand, landscapes evolve and the climate continues to reshape our globe. To help people visualize these changes and learn more about the world around them, we’re announcing new updates to Google Earth and Street View.

    Travel back in time with Earth — and plan projects more efficiently

    Maybe you want to travel back in time and see what your neighborhood looked like decades ago. Or you want to understand how forests have been affected by human activity and the changing climate. All of this will soon be possible thanks to our new historical imagery in Google Earth on web and mobile, which makes it easy to explore our library of satellite and aerial imagery — some of which goes as far back as 80 years.

    When exploring, you’ll see a sharp contrast in how geography has evolved in many places. Take this 2018 image of Lake Oroville, a reservoir in northern California that saw significant water reduction after multi-year droughts. Compare that with its 2023 image, which shows how a series of rains gradually filled the reservoir back to maximum capacity — providing water storage, electricity from power generation and a space for water activities, like swimming and kayaking. Historical imagery allows you to follow the lake’s evolution in striking detail.

    Lake Oroville experienced dire levels of water reduction (2018). By 2023, a series of rains gradually filled the reservoir back to maximum capacity.

    Historical imagery can also show dramatic changes over longer periods of time. In places like London, Berlin, Warsaw and Paris, you can even explore imagery from as far back as the 1930s. For example, below is a black-and-white photo of San Francisco in 1938, taken by Oakland Airport pilots. During this period, you can see that ports were mainly used for shipping and industry — compared to the 2022 image, where you see the piers dotted with restaurants and cruise ships docked in the harbor. Want to browse even more of the world’s changes? Check out Timelapse in Google Earth, an interactive experience built from millions of satellite images showing a stunning visualization of how our planet is changing over time.

    San Francisco in 1938, compared to San Francisco in 2022. Available in Google Earth historical imagery.

    In addition to helping you browse Earth’s changes, we’re also making it easier for researchers and organizations to use Google Earth for projects, like creating custom maps. Soon we’ll start showing projects right from a newly designed home screen in Google Earth, making it even easier to collaborate with your teams. You can learn more about these updates on our developer blog.

    Expanding Street View imagery in nearly 80 countries

    While Google Earth has a vast repository of satellite and aerial imagery, Street View displays over 280 billion images collected from our Street View cars and trekkers. With Street View, you can virtually explore every continent right from your living room — and even places like the Great Barrier Reef and the International Space Station. Now, we’re launching one of the biggest updates to Street View yet, with new imagery in almost 80 countries — some of which will have Street View imagery for the very first time.

    You’ll be able to explore the picturesque countryside of Bosnia and its medieval villages, the sandy mountains surrounding the capital of Namibia, the alps and castles of Liechtenstein and the beautiful rivers of Paraguay. You can even virtually wander the streets of foreign cities to see shops and buildings up close.

    Street View imagery taken from the bridge overlooking Diamond Beach in southeast Iceland, where icebergs float in the water.

    Keep an eye out for updated Street View images from around the world, in countries like Australia, Argentina, Brazil, Costa Rica, Denmark, France, Iceland, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Philippines, Rwanda, Serbia, Spain, South Africa, Switzerland, Uruguay and many more. And our newest camera — just 15 pounds and mountable on any car — will make it easier for us to bring Street View to even more places in the future. As our planet changes, this updated imagery helps keep the map fresh for people everywhere.

    Here are just a few Street View images we captured this year:

    • Street View image of Disappointment Bay, Tasmania

    • Street View image of Fukue Island, Japan

    • Street View image of Logstor, Denmark

    • Street View image of Skane county, Denmark

    • Street View image of Quai d’Honneur, France

    • Street View image of Mokau, New Zealand

    • Street View image of Tasman, New Zealand

    • Street View image of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

    • Street View image of Oaxaca, Mexico

    Sharpening imagery with new AI models

    In addition to making imagery available in more places, we’re sharpening satellite imagery across Google Earth and Maps. Starting this week, you’ll see a brighter, more vibrant globe made possible thanks to our cloud-removal technology. We’ve used our Cloud Score+ AI model, trained on millions of images, to recognize and remove things like clouds, cloud shadows, haze and mist. At the same time, this model keeps real-world weather patterns — like ice, snow and mountain shadows — visible on the map. The result is a refreshed global mosaic that gives you a clearer, more accurate look at Earth.

    Egypt’s Toshka Lakes, recently formed in the Sahara Desert from Lake Nasser overflow. Composite image enhanced with Cloud Score+ .

    These updates help us understand our planet’s past and present, while also offering an expanded, more beautiful view of our world.

    POSTED IN:

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Regional Symposium and Policy Dialogue on Transforming Education

    Source: Caribbean Development Bank

    The Regional Symposium and Policy Dialogue on Transforming Education will take place from 2-4 October 2024 at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Cayman Islands.

    Hosted by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) in collaboration with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission, UNESCO, and UNICEF, this event will bring together over 150 regional leaders, educators, and policymakers for thought-provoking discussions, expert presentations, and collaborative sessions aimed at addressing the most pressing challenges facing the Caribbean education sector.

    Held under the theme “Understanding, Leveraging, and Unlocking Our Full Potential”, the symposium will focus on leadership transformation, revamping teaching and learning methods, and expanding access to quality education. Key areas of focus are:

    1. Inclusive, equitable, safe, and healthy schools
    2. Learning and skills for life, work, and sustainable development
    3. Teachers and the teaching profession
    4. Digital learning and transformation
    5. Financing education

    The agenda will explore decolonising education, AI in education, building a culture of social and emotional learning, and the role of education in creating healthier societies, as well as other pressing issues impacting regional education systems.

    Regional leaders will use these discussions to develop the Agenda for Action, a consensus-driven roadmap for transforming education across the Caribbean.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Read More (Abraham Accords Caucus Introduces Bipartisan Resolution to Promote Peace and Tolerance in Education)

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative David Trone

    September 24, 2024

    WASHINGTON – The Co-Chairs of the Abraham Accords Caucus, Representatives Brad Schneider (D-IL), Ann Wagner (R-MO), David Trone (D-MD), and Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA), have introduced a bipartisan resolution encouraging the U.S. Department of State and civil society organizations to further the goals of the Abraham Accords by promoting peace and tolerance through education across the Middle East. The resolution emphasizes ongoing reforms to national curricula to reduce antisemitic content, combat hate speech, and foster mutual respect and understanding, particularly in countries such as Egypt, the UAE, Bahrain, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, and Indonesia.

    “The Abraham Accords have shown us the power of diplomacy and cooperation in the Middle East,” said Rep. Brad Schneider. “This resolution underscores the importance of educating future generations with the values of peace, tolerance, and coexistence. We have a responsibility to promote these principles and help ensure a stable and prosperous future for the region.”

    The resolution also calls for the U.S. to work with international organizations, such as the United Nations, to eliminate antisemitism and hate speech from educational materials, while encouraging reforms that promote inclusivity and respect.

    “As our partners in the Middle East educate the next generation of leaders, it is clear that peace and stability in the region depend on an end to antisemitism and hate speech—period,” said Rep. Ann Wagner. “This resolution advances that important mission and makes it clear antisemitism has no place in educational and other organizations throughout the Middle East. By rejecting bigotry and adopting educational curricula that affirm the importance of mutual respect, religious tolerance, and peaceful coexistence, we will deprive the Iranian regime and its proxies of the hatred that fuels their violent agendas.”

    “The education system influences the ideals of the next generation’s global citizens and leaders,” said Rep. David Trone. “Teaching unity over division will have similarly beneficial outcomes as the Abraham Accords: a more peaceful, stable, and strong Middle East.”

    “Education is a cornerstone of the foundation we are building to achieve long-lasting peace and prosperity in the Middle East,” said Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers. “Together, we must help the next generation open their hearts and minds to see each other with dignity and respect. Our bipartisan resolution is about embracing this change and rooting out the hatred that is standing in the way of a brighter future for us all.”

    This resolution represents a key effort by the Abraham Accords Caucus to strengthen and expand the gains made through the historic agreements, ensuring the next generation is equipped to build on the progress made toward peace and stability in the region.

    Full text of the resolution can be found here.

    The Abraham Accords Caucus aims to strengthen the Abraham Accords by encouraging and partnerships among the existing Abraham Accords countries and expanding the agreement to include countries that do not currently have diplomatic relations with Israel. The Caucus has successfully pushed for passage of the Israel Relations Normalization Act, DEFEND Act, and MARITIME Act as well as multiple NDAA provisions addressing diplomatic, military and intelligence cooperation. Senators James Lankford (R-OK), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Joni Ernst (R-IA) and Cory Booker (D-NJ) co-chair the companion caucus in the Senate.

    The Abraham Accords, which were signed on September 15, 2020, resulted in peace and normalization agreements between Israel and several Arab states—the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Morocco—transforming the region, enhancing Israel’s security, creating economic opportunities for Arab states and advancing vital U.S. national security interests. The Accords built on the success of previous peace normalization agreements between Israel, Egypt and Jordan.

    The Caucus is supported by the Atlantic Council, the Abraham Accords Peace Institute, the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), the Anti-Defamation League, the American Jewish Committee, Hadassah—The Women’s Zionist Organization of America, the U.S.-Israel Education Association, the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, the Israel Policy Forum, CUFI Action, the Jewish Federations of North America and B’nai B’rith International.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Tecnológico de Monterrey university pioneers ambitious AI-powered learning ecosystem

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Tecnológico de Monterrey university pioneers ambitious AI-powered learning ecosystem

    Balleza, who participated in a pilot program for the AI assistant, says that he felt empowered and more confident in his studies after using the tool. Behind his experience was the dedicated work of the professors who produced the data for the tutor by integrating their educational material created for class with customized tutorial content specifically designed for it.

    Tecnológico de Monterrey, one of the oldest and most renowned colleges in Mexico and abroad, has often been at the forefront of innovation and technology in its 81-year-old history (it adopted computers as early as in the 1960s). The university’s headquarters are in the northern city of Monterrey, Mexico’s industrial powerhouse, just 100 miles south of Texas.

    “We knew from the beginning that AI was a phenomenon of such magnitude that the sooner we jumped on board and designed our own journey, the better,” says Carles Abarca, the university’s vice president for digital transformation.

    Users can access the AI systems through the university’s intranet on their computer or a phone app. The experience is customized depending on whether you are a professor, a student or a collaborator, the term that the university uses for its employees. It has been designed to be potentially available to the 35,000 employees of the institution, including 11,000 professors, and to all 90,000 students across more than two dozen campuses in Mexico.

    Carles Abarca, the Tecnológico de Monterrey’s vice president for digital transformation, says the institution had no doubt in embracing AI as an educational tool. Photo by Octavio Hoyos.

    Internal and external data

    The platform combines both internal and external data through its different features. Some tools are accessible to all employees and students, including a natural language chat that uses internal data to answer questions related to tuition, scholarships and campus shuttle schedules, among others, which students describe as a huge time saver. There is also a chat with access to external data and the ability to summarize texts and create images through prompts.

    A separate set of academic tools strictly focused on the learning process is used only by teachers, who produce all the data, and students. It is split into three interconnected components: Skill Studio, which enables professors to create teaching material, from exercises to mock tests to quizzes, and the Academic TECbot and Librarian TECbot, which work as personalized tutors for students.

    The library assistant can quickly find books and handbooks from more than 60 million sources of the university’s library and other licensed content.

    TECgpt launched a year ago and is already used by 3,000 users monthly. The academic tools have been in beta phase, but are expected to be accessible to all teachers and around 5,000 students between now and early 2025, Abarca says.

    Students who have participated in the pilot phase highlight how the platform helped them fill gaps in understanding quickly and efficiently. Professors say it helped them automate repetitive academic tasks and find more creative and innovative learning takeaways.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Economic growth during uncertain times

    Source: Bank of Canada

    Good afternoon. I want to thank the Institute of International Finance and the Canadian Bankers Association for inviting me to take part in your 2024 Forum.

    Your focus on growth during uncertainty is timely. Uncertainty feels like the new reality: The uncertainty caused by war in Europe and in the Middle East. The uncertainties arising from geopolitical tensions and economic fragmentation. And the related uncertainties about supply chains, trading relationships and global investment risks.

    Rapid advances in new technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI) and its new offspring, Generative-AI, are disrupting business models and creating new uncertainties for firms and workers.

    Uncertainty surrounds the impacts of climate change and the policy frameworks to adapt to and mitigate it.

    There is political uncertainty. And fiscal uncertainty.

    As your theme implies, uncertainty and economic growth do not sit well together: uncertainty impedes growth.

    But with inspired policy, good business decisions and sound risk management, we can manage uncertainty and reduce its impact on households, businesses and growth. We have recent historical evidence.

    Sixteen years ago this month, Lehman Brothers failed, and the financial system froze because nobody knew which banks were safe. Today, the global financial system is much safer thanks to the implementation of sweeping global reforms to increase capital and liquidity buffers, and reduce leverage.

    With the rapid development of new vaccines and with exceptional fiscal and monetary policies, uncertainty about our health and the health of our economies has decreased dramatically since the depths of the COVID-19 pandemic.

    Thanks to decisive monetary policy action and the unblocking of supply chains, uncertainty about costs and inflation are much lower today than two years ago, when inflation peaked above 8% in Canada and was even higher in many other countries.

    In the past few weeks, I have given speeches on the shifting global trade landscape and the economic implications and risks of rapid advances in artificial intelligence. These are two key areas where we can reduce uncertainty through good policy and far-sighted business leadership.

    At the same time, we need to recognize that new uncertainties are a new reality, and we must be ready for the inevitable shocks in a more turbulent world. That puts a priority on risk management and investments in resilience.

    A key function of financial institutions is to help households and businesses manage the risks they face. Financial institutions also have a responsibility to manage their own risks prudently so that they do not themselves become a source of uncertainty and instability.

    As Canada’s central bank, we have a role to play in mitigating and managing risks and uncertainty. Our primary mandate is price stability—in other words, low, stable and predictable inflation. We also have mandates to foster a stable financial system and ensure safe and efficient payments.

    Let me say a few words on financial stability and payments. And then I’ll finish with some thoughts on monetary policy.

    Our financial stability focus is on risks that could lead to system-wide stress. And we publish these findings in our annual Financial Stability Report (FSR).

    In our most recent FSR, published in May, we reported that Canadian mortgage holders had experienced a modest increase in levels of financial stress. Since then, we’ve observed that arrears on mortgages have continued to rise, although they remain below pre-pandemic levels. It also appears that these households have not leaned on revolving credit products such as lines of credit and credit cards to a greater degree than before the pandemic.

    But there is a notable increase in financial stress among borrowers without a mortgage, mainly renters. During the pandemic, for most credit products, the share of these borrowers missing payments reached historical lows. However, we’re now seeing a larger share of these borrowers lagging behind on credit card and auto loan payments. Over the past year the share of borrowers without a mortgage who carry a credit card balance of at least 90% of their credit limit has continued to climb. And this share is now above typical historical levels. This is concerning.

    Our responsibilities related to payments require us to adapt to increasing digitalization. Innovation in payments continues to accelerate.

    In 2021, the Bank assumed a new mandate for the supervision of retail payment service providers. Starting November 1st of this year, more than 3,000 service providers will need to register with the Bank and follow new rules aimed at safeguarding consumers and protecting the integrity of retail payments.  

    We are also looking at the bigger picture of payment innovation, both in Canada and around the world. As part of this work, in the past few years we’ve built an extensive body of knowledge about the framework and technology behind a possible central bank digital currency (CBDC), including the benefits and risks.

    But recognizing that there is not currently a compelling case to move forward with a CBDC in Canada, the Bank is scaling down its work on a retail central bank digital currency and shifting its focus to broader payments system research and policy development. The Bank will continue to monitor global retail CBDC developments. And the Bank will be ready to ensure Canadians always have a safe and secure supply of public money.

    Now, let me circle back to monetary policy.

    In June, we began lowering our policy interest rate. We cut the policy rate at our last three decisions, for a cumulative decline of 75 basis points to 4.25%.

    Our most recent decision on September 4th reflected two main considerations.

    First, we noted that headline and core inflation had continued to ease as expected. Second, we said that as inflation gets closer to target, we want to see economic growth pick up to absorb the slack in the economy.

    Since then, we’ve been pleased to see inflation come all the way back to the 2% target. It has been a long journey. Now we want to keep inflation close to the centre of the 1%–3% inflation-control band. We need to stick the landing.

    What does this mean for interest rates? With the continued progress we’ve seen on inflation, it is reasonable to expect further cuts in our policy rate. The timing and pace will be determined by incoming data and our assessment of what those data mean for future inflation.

    As always, we try to be as clear as we can about what we are watching as we chart the course for monetary policy.

    Economic growth picked up in the first half of this year, and we want to see it strengthen further so that inflation stays close to the 2% target. Some recent indicators suggest growth may not be as strong as we expected. We will be closely watching consumer spending, as well as business hiring and investment.

    We will also be looking for continued easing in core inflation, which is still a little above 2%. Shelter cost inflation remains elevated but has started to come down, and we are looking for it to moderate further.

    Our next decision is October 23rd. And we will have a revised economic outlook at that time.

    With those introductory thoughts, let’s get the discussion started.

    I would like to thank Russell Barnett, Claudia Godbout and Brian Peterson for their help in preparing these remarks.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: FinTech360 Launches Cross-Device Trading Solutions to Meet Growing Mobile Demand in FinTech Industry

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Hong Kong, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FinTech360, a leading B2B provider of fintech solutions for regulated forex brokers, today announced the launch of its new cross-device trading solutions, designed to meet the increasing demand for mobile-friendly platforms in the fintech industry. This innovative system enables brokers to offer seamless trading experiences across multiple devices, including Android, iOS, and web platforms, ensuring a consistent user experience and maximizing client engagement in a mobile-first world.

    With mobile traffic now accounting for the majority of user interactions in the financial sector, FinTech360’s new cross-device solutions come at a critical time for brokers seeking to stay competitive. The platform provides brokers with advanced tools for customer lifecycle management, CRM, payment gateways, and trading signals, all of which are accessible from any device, offering flexibility and convenience to both brokers and traders.

    “In response to the growing dominance of mobile usage in trading, we are proud to introduce our cross-device solutions, which allow brokers to offer their clients uninterrupted access to trading tools on any platform,” said Aaron Bitter, BDM of FinTech360. “We recognize that brokers need to cater to mobile-first users, and our new solutions provide the perfect balance between functionality and accessibility across all devices.”

    Innovative Cross-Device Features Tailored for Forex Brokers

    The new cross-device platform from FinTech360 is specifically designed for the unique needs of forex brokers, allowing them to engage with a broader client base by providing a seamless user interface across mobile apps and web-based platforms. As mobile trading continues to grow, the ability to offer a unified trading experience across different devices becomes essential for brokers looking to attract and retain clients.

    With enhanced functionality and a mobile-optimized interface, the platform empowers traders to access real-time data, execute trades, and monitor market movements on-the-go, all while enjoying the same high-quality experience whether they are using a mobile phone or desktop computer.

    FinTech360’s Continued Commitment to Innovation and Broker Success

    As part of this new launch, FinTech360 has integrated Acuity Trading’s AI-driven market analysis tools into its cross-device platform. This combination of AI technology and mobile optimization provides brokers with deeper market insights and more comprehensive trading strategies, helping them make informed decisions and better serve their clients.

    FinTech360 has long been recognized for its innovative fintech solutions tailored specifically for regulated brokers. The company’s full suite of services includes CRM systems, business intelligence tools, trading platforms, and affiliate network solutions, all designed to simplify broker operations and enhance overall efficiency. By focusing on creating flexible, scalable solutions, FinTech360 continues to empower brokers to thrive in a competitive market.

    For more information about FinTech360 and its latest cross-device trading solutions, visit FinTech360.

    Disclaimer: 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.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: HP Workforce Solutions Advances Strategy to Deliver Exceptional Employee Experiences

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    News Highlights

    • Supercharges HP Workforce Experience Platform with expanded access and capabilities
    • Introduces managed services that reduce downtime and keep employees productive
    • Announces the industry’s most advanced remote remediation technology
    • Launches HOPE Recycling Futures to give PCs a second life while accelerating digital equity

    PALO ALTO, Calif., Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Today at HP Imagine, HP Inc.’s (NYSE: HPQ) Workforce Solutions division (HPWS) today announced a series of significant advancements designed to enable companies to achieve growth by delivering more personalized, fulfilling experiences.

    As part of this, HP is expanding access to HP Workforce Experience Platform, giving CIOs access to enhanced tools, data and insights to ensure their employees are connected and productive. For customers wanting HP to manage their IT environment, HP is announcing advanced monitoring solutions and global availability of HP Managed Collaboration Services that proactively remediate incidents before employees are impacted. And when technology does fail, HP is launching a new service that helps get employees back up and running quickly. HP is also introducing a new service to help companies harness the power of AI to drive further productivity in the workforce and expanded refurbishment programs to drive a more circular economy.

    “We are at the intersection of two major trends – AI and Flexible Work – and both are having a profound impact on our lives,” said Dave Shull, President of HP Workforce Solutions. “At the same time, employees want greater fulfillment and companies want improved productivity. Our Future-Ready portfolio of software and solutions helps guide companies through this shift.”

    Keeping Employees Engaged and Productive

    HP Workforce Experience Platform Expands Beta Access and Introduces New Features
    HP Workforce Experience Platform – a platform that intelligently anticipates and resolves digital friction across every employee endpoint from a single dashboard – has been in private beta for three months with more than 270K devices enrolled.[1]

    HP is now expanding access by making the Workforce Experience Platform Beta available to new or renewing HP Proactive Insights customers in the United States at no extra cost.

    As part of the new release, HP is rolling out new features that enable customers to monitor, secure, and manage printer performance at scale, in addition to PCs. New capabilities in AI-powered fleet management and employee sentiment analysis will help reduce IT support tickets and employee downtime through proactive anomaly detection and smart recommendations.

    Additionally, HP Workforce Experience Platform supports integrations with Microsoft Power BI, Power Automate and Tableau (available now) and plans to support Microsoft Intune and ServiceNow in a future release, enabling IT to leverage Workforce Experience Platform data easily and securely within their existing workflows. This means IT has a more holistic view of their device fleet, better data accuracy, and more tailored IT operations that help drive down expenses and improve return on investment.[2]

    New Global Command Centers for Advanced Monitoring Capabilities
    As companies look to shift their IT support from a reactive to a proactive approach, HP is announcing advanced Monitoring and Management capabilities – enabled by new global command centers – to help customers monitor and manage both HP and non-HP devices across the world, including detecting and remediating incidents.

    Leveraging telemetry,[3] HP monitors thousands of data points in conference room equipment, printers, and PCs. This enables HP Service Experts to detect and identify issues and take remote actions to proactively remediate incidents before employees are impacted. These HP Managed Services are available globally for HP’s managed solutions customers and sold through direct channels.

    Industry’s First Out-of-band Diagnostics and Remediation Capability
    Data shows that 90% of employees prefer flexible or hybrid work.[4] Employees have also come to expect the same level of support remotely that they would receive in an office. But existing remote support tools can’t always address the problem, like when a PC crashes and won’t reboot.

    To help reduce the time and frustration involved in restoring productivity for both hybrid employees and IT, HP is introducing a new HP out-of-band remediation service,[5] the industry’s most advanced remote remediation technology,[6] that enables more PC issues to be fixed remotely than ever before – even if the PC won’t boot. HP is the first PC manufacturer to use out-of-band technology to securely connect to remote PCs below the OS, using an encrypted cloud connection. This allows HP support agents full keyboard, video and mouse (KVM) control to diagnose and fix more complex issues like boot failures, imaging and BIOS issues — with virtually no assistance from the end user.

    This industry-first remediation service is expected to be available later this year in North America and the EU as an add-on to an HP Essential, Premium or Premium+ Support package with the purchase of any new Intel vPro enabled PC direct from HP or an authorized reseller. HP plans to expand the service feature availability across other commercial PCs in the coming months.

    New AI Advisory Services Help Customers Tap into the Potential of Microsoft Copilot
    HP is also announcing a new AI advisory service to help customers tap into the full potential of Microsoft 365 Copilot. This new AI advisory service will evaluate a company’s current setup and readiness for AI, conduct interactive workshops to help companies maximize the benefits of AI, and help companies plan for rolling out new AI tools. This new AI Advisory Service is expected to be available in November 2024 in the US, UK, France, Spain, Ireland, and Germany.

    Creating Collaborative Team Experiences

    Managed Collaboration Services Now Available to Customers Worldwide
    In today’s flexible working world, video collaboration connects more employees than ever before. To help customers modernize and maintain their conference rooms, HP is announcing the global availability of HP Managed Collaboration Services. HP Managed Collaboration Services uses Poly and HP gear to deliver exceptional meeting experiences with flexible, reliable, managed room solutions that ensure every space is video-enabled, and ready to be used. Learn more here.

    Driving Societal Impact

    HP is committed to accelerating equitable access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunity for those who are systemically excluded so they can participate and thrive in a digital economy. HP’s new services and programs help give technology a second life while delivering hope around the world.

    Expanded Portfolio of HP Certified Refurbished Hardware
    With growing customer demand for high-quality, reliable second-life devices, HP is announcing expansion of its HP Certified Refurbished hardware portfolio to now include LaserJet Multi-Function Printers, available for Managed Print Solutions customers in the United States.

    Each HP Certified Refurbished device undergoes rigorous refurbishment and inspection processes, utilizes approved HP parts, and comes backed by HP Support for added peace of mind. The LaserJet offerings are the latest addition to the HP Certified Refurbished hardware portfolio, which also includes availability of HP EliteBook 800 G6 and G7 series notebooks in the United States and France.

    Delivering HOPE Around the World
    HP is expanding HOPE Recycling Futures – HP’s signature program that helps companies connect and uplift children. HOPE Recycling Futures receives devices from organizations who would otherwise dispose of them, works with its partners to erase existing data and refurbish the devices. HP then coordinates with vetted non-governmental organizations to deliver the devices to schools serving vulnerable and marginalized youth — all at no cost to the company or receiving organization.

    HOPE Recycling Futures is already partnering with companies across the EU, UK, Switzerland, India, Singapore, and Brazil, and will now extend this partnership to include Mexico. More than 16,000 children in 22 countries have benefited from the program through 72 donation projects to date.

    By giving their PCs a second life for kids in need through HOPE Recycling Futures, businesses can play a crucial role in reducing e-waste and empowering the next generation with the tools they need to thrive in a digital world.

    For more information on today’s news at HP Imagine, visit https://www.hp.com/us-en/newsroom/press-kits/2024/hp-imagine.html.

    About HP Workforce Solutions
    Workforce Solutions is a global business unit of HP Inc. Given HP’s innovative and comprehensive portfolio of PCs, printers, and collaboration gear, HP Workforce Solutions (HPWS) is used by millions worldwide to solve customer problems, often proactively, through AI-enabled software and services. HP can help partners and customers from start to finish of their technology journey.

    About HP
    HP Inc. (NYSE: HPQ) is a global technology leader and creator of solutions that enable people to bring their ideas to life and connect to the things that matter most. Operating in more than 170 countries, HP delivers a wide range of innovative and sustainable devices, services and subscriptions for personal computing, printing, 3D printing, hybrid work, gaming, and more. For more information, please visit: http://www.hp.com. 

    [1] The Workforce Experience platform is for commercial customers and requires registration. At launch, some features will require a subscription. To register for access, visit https://admin.hp.com/. Some features and capabilities may require additional purchase of HP services and/or commercial hardware capable of supporting the HP Insights agent for Windows, Mac, & Android. Activation and restrictions may apply.
    Select HP Workforce Solutions require an HP Insights agent for Windows, Mac, & Android, available for download at https://admin.hp.com/software. For full system requirements and services that require the agent, please visit https://admin.hp.com/requirements. The agent collects telemetry and analytics around devices and applications that integrate into the Workforce Experience platform and is not sold as a standalone service. Internet access with connection to the Workforce Experience platform is required. HP follows stringent GDPR privacy regulations, and the platform is ISO27001, ISO27701, ISO27017 and SOC2 Type2 certified for Information Security.
    [2] Third party licenses required.
    [3] HP Services Scan is preinstalled and/or provided thru Windows Update and checks for service entitlement on each hardware device and downloads the applicable software agent automatically. To disable this feature, please follow the instructions at http://www.hpdaas.com/requirements. The HP Insights agent is a telemetry and analytics platform that provides critical data around devices and applications and is not sold as a standalone service. HP follows stringent GDPR privacy regulations and is ISO27001, ISO27701, ISO27017 and SOC2 Type2 certified for Information Security. Internet access with connection to the HP Insights agent is required. For full system requirements, please visit http://www.hpdaas.com/requirements. Not available in China.
    [4]Remote Work Statistics & Trends In (2024) – Forbes Advisor, Pew Research
    [5] Out-of-band diagnostics and remediation is available in North America (which includes the US and Canada), and the EU as an HP Care Pack for select HP commercial platforms that are Intel® vPro® and Intel® AMT enabled and are entitled to HP Premium Support or HP Premium+ Support. Service levels and response times for HP Care Packs may vary depending on your geographic location. Service starts on date of hardware purchase. Restrictions and limitations apply. For details, visit www.hp.com/go/cpc. HP Services are governed by the applicable HP terms and conditions of service provided or indicated to Customer at the time of purchase. Customer may have additional statutory rights according to applicable local laws, and such rights are not in any way affected by the HP terms and conditions of service or the HP Limited Warranty provided with your HP Product. Check with your HP authorized sales rep for availability.
    [6] Based on HP’s internal analysis of PC manufacturers with power cycle control, non-OS control, BIOS control and reimaging control as of 9/24/2024.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Introducing HP Print AI, Industry’s First Intelligent Print Experiences for Home, Office, and Large Format Printing

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    News Highlights

    • Unveils HP Print AI, including intelligent features to simplify and enhance printing from setup to support
    • Launches Perfect Output feature for consistent and accurate prints every time
    • Expands availability of HP Scan AI Enhanced to digitize workflows and help people work smarter
    • Debuts HP Build Workspace, new AI-enabled print collaboration ecosystem for design and construction

    PALO ALTO, Calif., Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Today at HP Imagine, HP Inc. (NYSE: HPQ) unveiled HP Print AI, the industry’s first intelligent print experiences1 designed to change how the world prints. HP Print AI’s features make printing frictionless by eliminating common challenges from printer setup to support. The first feature – Perfect Output – ensures prints look perfect every time and is available today via an exclusive beta program. HP Print AI features also enhance the printing experience at home and at work by unlocking new possibilities for creativity, productivity, and collaboration.

    “We are transforming the printing experience with HP Print AI, making it easier and more intuitive,” said Tuan Tran, HP President of Imaging, Printing, and Solutions. “Introducing AI solutions across our portfolio will simplify printing, ignite creativity, and accelerate collaboration – all while ensuring customer data is protected and kept private. This is our first step in setting a new standard for printing.”

    Delivering Perfect Output
    More than half of print jobs come from web browsers2, including online articles, travel documents, recipes, and how-to guides. However, printing from the web has traditionally yielded unnecessary white space, issues with image size, and inclusion of unwanted web ads. Consumers printing from web browsers have understandably felt frustrated, rating the experience with “strong dissatisfaction” 3.

    Perfect Output bridges the gaps between what people see on the screen and what they intend to print, reformatting and reorganizing content to fit perfectly on the page the first time. Perfect Output can detect unwanted content like ads and web text, printing only the desired text and images, saving time, paper, and ink.

    Messy web browser print layout before using HP Print AI

    Clean, reformatted print options after using HP Print AI

    Spreadsheets are another common print job, and more than half of spreadsheet users report experiencing challenges to make documents print out correctly 4. Perfect Output proactively creates a printable spreadsheet without splitting tables and charts across pages.

    Excel spreadsheet cuts across multiple pages without HP Print AI

    Spreadsheet and graph cleanly reformatted with HP Print AI

    Customizing Support
    HP Print AI will also simplify and tailor support for individual customers. From the moment a customer turns their printer on, intelligent technology anticipates their needs – walking through each step of setup. HP Print AI leverages natural language and contextual awareness, remembering users’ preferences and past questions, so customers receive immediate and customized support whenever they need it.

    Personalizing Experiences
    With HP Print AI, customers can easily transform photos into creative projects. Using simple conversational prompts, HP Print AI can seamlessly integrate unique layouts, custom styles, and fonts to personalize greeting cards for every occasion. HP Print AI also corrects common print errors by automatically upscaling images and removing unwanted objects.

    Once the design is ready, customers can choose to print or explore a curated list of partners that offer unique photo printing capabilities, gift certificates to be printed on the card, and so much more.

    Collaborating Seamlessly
    For the commercial market, HP announced the expanded availability of HP Scan AI Enhanced. This cloud-based, AI-driven solution automatically recognizes the type of documents being scanned and extracts key information based on the customer’s specific business needs. By reducing manual steps and data entry, this solution saves time and money for SMB and enterprise customers. For instance, a major retail group with 300 locations in Italy saw an 80% reduction in labor costs after implementing HP Scan AI Enhanced in its delivery and inventory workflow 5.

    HP is also extending AI capabilities to vertical industries, starting with design and construction, an industry lagging behind in using technology to deliver productivity improvements 6. HP’s new Build Workspace enables design and construction professionals to easily create and organize site observations, facilitate collaboration, and automate tasks such as field reports. By automating time-consuming tasks, HP Build Workspace drives efficiency and collaboration among professionals in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) field. Key features such as site capture, AI vectorization, and continuous feedback empower AEC professionals to streamline their workflows and optimize designs. The collaboration hub, HP Build Workspace, allows AEC professionals to access projects on desktop or mobile devices.

    Availability

    • HP Print AI is available today, starting with an exclusive beta delivering the Perfect Output feature to select print customers. HP intends to continue launching HP Print AI capabilities throughout 2025.
    • HP Build Workspace is available today, with HP Print AI capabilities also in beta in the US and Europe, scaling to the UK and Ireland soon, with expected worldwide rollout starting Spring 2025.
    • HP Scan AI Enhanced is a software service available today in North America, most of Europe and Latin America, and in parts of Asia.

    More information on today’s news at HP Imagine can be found here.

    ABOUT HP
    HP Inc. (NYSE: HPQ) is a global technology leader and creator of solutions that enable people to bring their ideas to life and connect to the things that matter most. Operating in more than 170 countries, HP delivers a wide range of innovative and sustainable devices, services and subscriptions for personal computing, printing, 3D printing, hybrid work, gaming, and more. For more information, please visit: http://www.hp.com.

    1. Based on HP’s internal analysis of intelligent solutions meeting the criteria of artificial intelligence, having a print platform, and covering scope of home, office and large format printing, as of September 2024
    2. Print Telemetry Data from Microsoft
    3. –62 Net Promoter Score (NPS) for strong dissatisfaction
    4. HP Research: Excel AI Print Add-In, July 2024
    5. Based on HP client use case, June 2023
    6. McKinsey Report: Delivering on construction productivity is no longer optional, August 2024

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9cedbace-5799-4efb-a2da-526a418476cd
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/fafd7c20-abaf-413f-b0b8-9b7863aa3490
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/decb99ba-962e-4180-bab3-85fe1621e576
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/92e3b40b-c748-4dae-a41d-42e41d153e92

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Exploding pagers and walkie-talkies are a reminder of how easily your devices can be hacked – here’s how to make sure they are safe

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Nick Hajli, AI Strategist and Professor of Digital Strategy, Loughborough University

    Quality Stock Arts/Shutterstock

    The recent attacks on walkie-talkies and pagers in Lebanon have highlighted the hidden vulnerabilities in everyday technology. These incidents underscore the need for individuals to understand the potential risks associated with their devices and to take proactive steps to protect themselves in an increasingly digital world where safety can be compromised.

    Research shows that many people have significant concerns about security and privacy as technology advances. Statistics reveal an alarming rise in cyber threats and privacy breaches, underscoring the urgency of addressing these issues. According to IBM, the average cost of a data breach worldwide reached US$4.88 million (£3.65 million) in 2024, demonstrating the severe consequences of technological vulnerabilities.

    So, are our smartphones and devices truly safe? With numerous reports of data breaches and privacy violations linked to technological development – especially concerning artificial intelligence (AI) – the recent attacks in Lebanon raise new concerns about the security of technology in an era where AI introduces complex challenges.

    The pressing question for consumers is whether any of our devices can genuinely be deemed safe. If Israel can launch such an attack (and it has not confirmed it was behind the device attacks – but neither has it denied widespread reports insisting it was) other states may very well follow suit.

    The Lebanon device attacks should serve as a crucial wake-up call regarding the vulnerabilities in devices we often take for granted. Part of the challenge lies in the less discussed impact of AI, which can track, analyse, and act on information in ways that pose risks to privacy and security. While AI brings substantial benefits to society, it also creates complex challenges, particularly in terms of democratic integrity and personal safety.

    As technology increasingly becomes an indispensable part of our everyday lives – through smartphones, tablets, and smart home devices – it’s really important to understand the risks associated with our dependency on this tech. There are some practical steps that we can all take to enhance our security and take control of our digital lives.

    What you can do

    1. Be careful who you buy from: One critical lesson is to be mindful of where you purchase your products. As technology advances, consumers often turn to price comparison apps to find cheaper options. But these less expensive products frequently originate from distant countries with complex supply chains. For example, in 2020, it was revealed that some Huawei and ZTE devices used in telecom infrastructure contained back doors, which led to allegations of espionage and resulted in some countries banning or limiting their use.

    It’s worth thoroughly researching the manufacturer before making a purchase. Before buying, check reviews and security certifications, and find out if the company has a history of security breaches or privacy concerns. Ensuring the manufacturer is reputable adds an extra layer of protection.

    It’s vital to ensure the security of your mobile device is not compromised.
    OLE.cnx/Shutterstock

    2. Understand potential risks: Older devices, such as pagers, often lack modern security features such as regular updates, making them more vulnerable to interception. Additionally, recent advances in AI raise concerns about the security of newer devices. For instance, AI algorithms used in smart home devices can learn user patterns and behaviours.

    If these devices are compromised, hackers could use this information to orchestrate targeted attacks or gain unauthorised access to homes. It’s crucial to assess the risks associated with both old and new technologies – and if you think them unsafe, it’s best to just not use them.

    3. Update devices regularly: Ensure you regularly update your software and firmware to benefit from the latest security patches. Stick to devices that are still supported by their manufacturers, as unsupported devices may stop receiving vital security updates, leaving them vulnerable.

    4. Keep your eyes on your tech: Anyone who is able to gain physical access to your device could tamper with it. Always store your devices securely when not in use, minimising the risk of unauthorised access.

    5. Stay informed on cybersecurity issues: Keep yourself updated on the latest cybersecurity threats and learn how attackers exploit various technologies. Familiarise yourself with basic defensive practices, such as using strong, unique passwords and enabling two-factor authentication. Remember that many modern devices are interconnected, making them potential gateways for attacks. For example, a compromised smartphone could potentially infect your laptop or other devices on the same network.

    Exercise caution with smart devices such as speakers, cameras, and wearables by ensuring they are properly configured, using encrypted connections, and limiting unnecessary data sharing.

    By taking these steps, you can enhance your security and navigate the complexities of our technology-driven world with greater confidence.

    Nick Hajli does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Exploding pagers and walkie-talkies are a reminder of how easily your devices can be hacked – here’s how to make sure they are safe – https://theconversation.com/exploding-pagers-and-walkie-talkies-are-a-reminder-of-how-easily-your-devices-can-be-hacked-heres-how-to-make-sure-they-are-safe-239657

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –