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  • MIL-OSI: Year End Report 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Highlights

    • The Company added a total of 50 GWh of annual long-term proportionate power generation through acquisitions in 2024, reflecting a five percent increase in long-term power generation, of which 20 GWh was added in the fourth quarter.
    • Power generation amounted to 907 GWh for the year, in line with the updated outlook, and power generation of 287 GWh during the fourth quarter marks the Company’s highest ever quarterly production.
    • Reached the ready-to-permit milestone for the Company’s first large-scale project in the UK, a 1.4 GW solar and 500 MW battery project, and initiated a sales process to assess divestment options.
    • Achieved carbon neutrality for Scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions.

    Consolidated financials – 12 months

    • Cash flows from investing activities amounted to MEUR 32.6 and was positively impacted by the sale of the Leikanger hydropower plant in the second quarter.
    • Cash flows from operating activities amounted to MEUR -6.3.

    Proportionate financials – 12 months

    • Achieved electricity price amounted to EUR 34 per MWh, which resulted in a proportionate EBITDA of MEUR 7.0.
    • Proportionate net debt of MEUR 65.0, with significant liquidity headroom available through the MEUR 170 revolving credit facility.

    Financial Summary

    Orrön Energy owns renewables assets directly and through joint ventures and associated companies and is presenting proportionate financials to show the net ownership and related results of these assets. The purpose of the proportionate reporting is to give an enhanced insight into the Company’s operational and financial results.

    Expressed in MEUR

    		 1 Jan 2024-
    31 Dec 2024
    12 months    		 1 Oct 2024-
    31 Dec 2024
    3 months    		 1 Jan 2023-
    31 Dec 2023
    12 months    		 1 Oct 2023-
    31 Dec 2023
    3 months
    Consolidated financials        
    Revenue 25.7 7.1 28.0 8.4
    EBITDA -1.6 -2.5 -5.1 -0.9
    Operating profit (EBIT) -17.5 -6.3 -17.0 -4.4
    Net result -13.3 -6.6 -7.6 8.0
    Earnings per share – EUR -0.05 -0.02 -0.03 0.03
    Earnings per share diluted – EUR -0.05 -0.02 -0.03 0.03
    Proportionate financials1        
    Power generation (GWh) 907 287 765 226
    Average price achieved per MWh – EUR 34 30 47 43
    Operating expenses per MWh – EUR 17 14 18 16
    Revenue 30.7 8.7 36.2 9.6
    EBITDA 7.0 0.1 5.3 1.3
    Operating profit (EBIT) -12.9 -4.8 -11.0 -3.2

    1 Proportionate financials represent Orrön Energy’s proportionate ownership (net) of assets and related financial results, including joint ventures. For more details see section Key Financial Data in the Year End Report 2024.

    Comment from Daniel Fitzgerald, CEO of Orrön Energy AB
    “2024 marks another year of good progress despite challenging market conditions. We added around 50 GWh of long-term annual power generation through value-accretive acquisitions in Sweden, strengthened our balance sheet with the sale of the Leikanger hydropower asset, and launched our first sales process in the UK having reached the ready-to-permit stage on a project with 1.4 GW solar generation capacity and a 500 MW battery. In response to the volatile market conditions experienced in 2024, we initiated voluntary production curtailments across a portion of our portfolio, and started providing ancillary services to the market via some of our windfarms. These initiatives have helped us to reduce the impact of negatively priced hours and take advantage of alternative revenue streams. We remain focused on delivering profitable growth and are consistently looking for ways to improve performance during challenging market environments.

    Proportionate power generation amounted to 907 GWh for the year, which was in line with our updated outlook. We delivered a record quarterly power generation of 287 GWh in the fourth quarter, despite the impact of voluntary production curtailments during periods of low electricity prices. While the overall power generation in 2024 was impacted by lower-than-average wind speeds, we hope to see more normalised weather conditions in 2025, following four consecutive years of wind speeds below the historical long-term average. Taking into account this variability, the acquisitions made in 2024, and the potential for future curtailment, we expect our power generation in 2025 to be between 900 and 1,050 GWh, which gives some margin both for weather and market conditions.

    Capitalising on market opportunities
    The renewable energy industry continued to face headwinds in 2024, as elevated interest rates, inflation, and periods of low electricity prices led to downward pressures on valuations and stock prices across the sector. Uncertainty in the US and political shifts across Europe further impacted investor confidence regarding the pace and support for the energy transition. However, the long-term fundamentals for renewable energy remain strong, where onshore wind and solar continue to have the lowest breakeven cost by a significant margin compared to other sources. Despite political or economic headwinds, these investments are poised to stand the test of time. We maintained our strategic focus, adding over 50 GWh of long-term proportionate power generation in 2024 at a cost of less than 0.5 MEUR per MW. We have now replaced 50 percent of the production sold of the Leikanger asset, at a significantly lower unit cost, demonstrating a highly accretive and efficient recycling of capital.

    In the Nordics, electricity prices remained highly volatile, which impacted our financial results. This was largely driven by periods of oversupply due to lower seasonal demand, high hydrological balances, elevated gas storage and surplus electricity from interconnected European markets. Looking ahead, energy demand is forecast to grow, fuelled by GDP growth, continued electrification and increased power needs for data centres and artificial intelligence.

    First UK project reached ready-to-permit stage, sales process commenced
    We continued advancing our project development platform in the fourth quarter, and I am excited to announce that we achieved a significant milestone by having our first large-scale project in the UK reach the ready-to-permit stage. The project is a 1.4 GW solar and 500 MW co-located battery development, and we have initiated a sales process to evaluate divestment options. This is the first project from our pipeline to reach this milestone, and we expect to have a number of follow-on projects reaching the same stage in 2025 both in the UK and Germany. In the UK, two key regulatory reforms are currently ongoing; the Clean Power 2030 Action Plan and the grid connections reform. Both aim to simplify and enhance the ability for renewable energy projects to obtain a grid connection more efficiently based on zonal capacity expectations. These reforms have had an impact on our prioritisation of projects and created some uncertainty for investors in the UK, and we will continue to monitor developments aiming to ensure our projects remain well-positioned in this evolving regulatory landscape.

    Financially resilient
    We remain in a financially robust position, with liquidity headroom exceeding MEUR 100. Proportionate revenues and other income amounted to MEUR 8.9 for the fourth quarter and MEUR 42.1 for the year, which was impacted by low electricity prices, resulting in a proportionate EBITDA of MEUR 0.1 for the fourth quarter and MEUR 7.0 for the year. Our full-year expenditure guidance for 2025 remains largely in line with 2024 and the business strategy remains unchanged as we enter the new year.

    Entering the next chapter of growth
    Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, I believe this will be a transformational period for Orrön Energy on many fronts. The Nordic business continues its organic growth with a good pipeline of projects, 1,000 GWh of long-term proportionate power generation and plenty of acquisition opportunities. The UK and German teams are rapidly reaching key milestones and we expect to see results from our project sales throughout 2025, with a material pipeline of opportunities to follow. We have now passed the halfway point of the Sudan legal case, and expect the District Court trial to finish during the second quarter of 2026, which will significantly reduce our future legal costs and positively impact our financial results thereafter. With the end of the Sudan trial in sight and our two organic growth platforms running, we can now start shaping the next strategic growth chapter for our business, and over the next year we will explore new opportunities to expand our portfolio and unlock additional value for our shareholders. I would like to thank our shareholders for their continued support and look forward to sharing updates on the exciting growth opportunities that lie ahead of us.”

    Webcast
    Listen to Daniel Fitzgerald, CEO and Espen Hennie, CFO commenting on the report and presenting the latest developments in Orrön Energy and its future growth strategy together with members of Orrön Energy’s management team at a webcast during the Company’s Capital Markets Day today at 14.00 CET. The presentation will be followed by a question-and-answer session.

    Follow the presentation live on the below webcast link:
    https://orron-energy.events.inderes.com/cmd-2025

    For further information, please contact:

    Robert Eriksson
    Corporate Affairs and Investor Relations
    Tel: +46 701 11 26 15
    robert.eriksson@orron.com

    Jenny Sandström
    Communications Lead
    Tel: +41 79 431 63 68
    jenny.sandstrom@orron.com

    Orrön Energy is an independent, publicly listed (Nasdaq Stockholm: “ORRON”) renewable energy company within the Lundin Group of Companies. Orrön Energy’s core portfolio consists of high quality, cash flow generating assets in the Nordics, coupled with greenfield growth opportunities in the Nordics, the UK, Germany and France. With financial capacity to fund further growth and acquisitions, and backed by a major shareholder, management and Board with a proven track record of investing into, leading and growing highly successful businesses, Orrön Energy is in a unique position to create shareholder value through the energy transition.

    This information is information that Orrön Energy AB is required to make public pursuant to the Securities Markets Act. The information was submitted for publication, through the contact persons set out above, at 07.30 CET on 12 February 2025.

    Forward-looking statements
    Statements in this press release relating to any future status or circumstances, including statements regarding future performance, growth and other trend projections, are forward-looking statements. These statements may generally, but not always, be identified by the use of words such as “anticipate”, “believe”, “expect”, “intend”, “plan”, “seek”, “will”, “would” or similar expressions. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risk and uncertainty because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that could occur in the future. There can be no assurance that actual results will not differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements due to several factors, many of which are outside the company’s control. Any forward-looking statements in this press release speak only as of the date on which the statements are made and the company has no obligation (and undertakes no obligation) to update or revise any of them, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Capital projects receive awards at international exhibition in Bangkok

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Three capital projects received awards at the International Exhibition of Intellectual Property, Inventions, Innovations and Technologies IPITEX 2025, which was held in Bangkok. This was reported by Maria Bagreeva, Deputy Mayor of Moscow, Head of the Department of Economic Policy and City Development.

    The gold medal in the category “Construction, civil engineering and architecture” was won by the collection of standards for assessing the costs of operating urban facilities (SN-2012). The organizers also awarded it a special prize for the high level of the product.

    The electronic robotic system “Risk-Based Approach to Execution of Government Contracts” won the gold medal in the category “Robotics, Electronics, Automation, Internet of Things and Software”. In addition, the project was awarded a special prize by the Japan Intellectual Property Association (JIPA) as the best innovative IT development.

    The investment program registry won a silver medal in the category “Environmental protection, energy, water supply, green technologies”. In addition, it was awarded a diploma by the World Association of Women Inventors and Entrepreneurs as the best development.

    “The digital technologies that Moscow is implementing to improve the quality of life of the population and improve the business climate of the Russian capital are receiving recognition from the expert community at the international level. The SN-2012 collection contains prices for all types of work and services for the maintenance and repair of schools, clinics, parks, roads, bridges and other city facilities. This information helps the city avoid unjustified costs and provides businesses with equal conditions for participation in government procurement,” noted Maria Bagreeva.

    She also emphasized that the robotic system “Risk-oriented approach to the execution of state contracts” allows organizations to control the timely payment of contracts and reduces the time for auditing subordinate institutions. The register of investment programs, in turn, simplifies the interaction between project initiators and potential investors, which accelerates the implementation of significant city initiatives.

    In 2024, the main IPITEX awards were given to the Unified Data Warehouse database, as well as the digital mechanism for forming purchases in the healthcare system within the Expertise platform. The model for predicting citizens’ fees in the Tariff information and analytical system won a bronze medal.

    The International Exhibition of Intellectual Property, Inventions, Innovations and Technologies IPITEX has been held in Bangkok since 1995 under the auspices of the National Research Council under the patronage of the King of Thailand and the International Federation of Inventors Associations. In 2025, 680 developers from 22 countries took part in it.

    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 access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/149967073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A residential area with a kindergarten will appear in the Sokolinaya Gora district under the KRT program

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    In the Sokolinaya Gora area, three sites will be reorganized under the integrated development of territories (IDT) program. The corresponding draft resolution published on the mos.ru portalThis was reported by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Urban Development Policy and Construction Vladimir Efimov.

    “Located in the east of the capital, three sites with a total area of 2.47 hectares are part of one integrated development project. It is planned to build a modern residential area with a kindergarten for the purposes of the renovation program. The total area of the property will be 46.5 thousand square meters. Investments in the development of the site are estimated at 7.7 billion rubles, and the annual budget effect is 28.7 million rubles,” said Vladimir Efimov.

    The plots are located near the Izmailovo station of the Moscow Central Circle and the Partizanskaya station of the Arbatsko-Pokrovskaya metro line.

    “The total area of new buildings for the purposes of the renovation program will be 41.5 thousand square meters. On the ground floors of residential buildings, there will be retail and utility facilities, as well as catering establishments. A kindergarten for 250 children will appear on the territory of the block. As a result, the city will receive about 65 jobs. All areas will be improved, landscaped, and new roads will be built here,” said the Minister of the Moscow Government, Head of the Department of City Property

    Maxim Gaman.

    Trees and shrubs will be planted on the territory, children’s and sports playgrounds will be equipped, as well as recreation areas for city residents.

    According to the Minister of the Moscow Government, Head of the Department of Urban Development Policy Vladislav Ovchinsky, in the Sokolinaya Gora area, residential complexes will be built for the purposes of the renovation program, the total area of apartments in which will be approximately over 24 thousand square meters. This will provide housing for about 900 Muscovites. Apartments for occupancy will be handed over with a finished, improved finish. The entrances will be equipped with rooms for concierges and stroller storage, and lights and video surveillance cameras will be installed on the territory.

    According to the program of integrated development of territories, multifunctional city quarters are being created, where roads, comfortable housing and all necessary infrastructure are being designed on the site of former industrial zones and inefficiently used areas. Currently, 302 KRT projects with a total area of about 4.2 thousand hectares are at various stages of implementation in the capital. This work is being carried out on behalf of the Mayor of Moscow.

    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 access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/149979073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: 33 residential complexes built in the south of the capital under the renovation program

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    In the Southern Administrative District (SAD), 33 new buildings were built under the renovation program. They are located in 10 districts, said the Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the Department of Urban Development Policy of the capital Vladislav Ovchinsky.

    In total, 378 houses in the district are to be resettled. More than 82 thousand Muscovites will receive new apartments.

    “In total, in 33 residential complexes built under the renovation program in the Southern Administrative District, more than 6.8 thousand apartments with finished improved finishing have been equipped. Most new buildings appeared in the Tsaritsyno district – 10 buildings, in which more than two thousand apartments have been prepared. In Nagatinsky Zaton, five new buildings with more than a thousand apartments have been erected. In Danilovsky and Nagorny districts – four residential complexes each, in which in total there are more than 1.6 thousand apartments,” Vladislav Ovchinsky specified.

    Trees and shrubs are planted near new houses, lawns and flower beds are laid out, children’s and sports playgrounds, as well as recreation areas are set up.

    Earlier Sergei Sobyanin congratulated The 200,000th resident who has begun resettlement under the renovation program.

    The renovation program was approved in August 2017. It concerns about a million Muscovites and provides for the resettlement of 5,176 houses. Sergei Sobyanin instructed to double the pace of implementation of the renovation program.

    Moscow is one of the leaders among regions in terms of construction volumes. High rates of housing construction correspond to the goals and initiatives of the national project “Infrastructure for life”.

    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 access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/149981073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Colombian conflict survivors turn forest heroes in search of climate change solutions

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    Climate and Environment

    “What do I want the river to carry away? The deforestation,” Sandra Donado says, her voice competing with the sudden storm lashing her canoe as it floats down the Guaviare River in Colombia’s Amazon biome region.

    This waterway, a silent witness to the turmoil of the municipality of Mapiripán, has seen it all – the wildlife trafficking, the coca harvests that fuelled conflict, the human bodies left behind amid a heinous massacre and the relentless erosion of the rainforest it once nourished.

    Now, Sandra hopes it will carry away the pain of the past and usher in an era of healing for her community and for its land.

    Mapiripán has long been trapped in a cycle of conflict and environmental degradation exacerbated by climate change. Many years ago, it was known for its illegal wildlife fur trade; later, it became a coca-growing region, attracting armed groups that turned the lush rainforest into a battleground.

    Promise of prosperity

    A young Sandra, facing extreme poverty and violence, arrived in Mapiripán in the early 2000s, drawn by a promise of prosperity. “There was an economic boom,” she recalls, “but it came from illicit crops – there was no other way to live.”

    But the area’s prosperity was short-lived. Eventually, the conflict escalated, and the coca trade collapsed, leaving the community in ruins. “We lived with both prosperity and conflict,” Sandra says, her voice trembling as she recounts harrowing experiences of hiding from armed groups.

    By 2009, most of the people in the rural communities in the region were forced to leave.

    Many, including Sandra, returned after the signing of the Colombia Peace Agreement in 2016 which ended a decades-long rebel insurgency.

    But the land, scarred by conflict and unsustainable cultivation, now struggled to produce. With a lack of infrastructure and limited market access, farmers like Marco Antonio Lopez turned to cattle ranching for survival.

    Deforestation boom

    This meant clearing more forests. “We would deforest 15 or 20 hectares with our own hands for our cattle,” he admits, “not to destroy biodiversity, but to find a way to survive.”

    They also watched helplessly as newcomers took over abandoned areas and deforested even larger swaths of land. “They didn’t care about deforesting 700 to 1,000 hectares,” Sandra says with disgust. “They would just cut right through the centre of the mountain.”

    The consequences were becoming all too clear: “That’s when we started to feel the heat, to notice the change in the climate,” she adds.

    © FAO/Felipe Rodríguez

    A silvopastoral system in the Amazon integrates trees and shrubs into livestock pastures. This increases carbon storage in trees and soil, reducing greenhouse gas emissions from livestock and fertilizer and boosting resilience to climate change.

    Sandra and Marco now long for a future where they can improve their lives while protecting the forests, a desire shared across the country.

    In fact, Colombia has made significant progress in curbing deforestation. The nation demonstrated that, between 2015 and 2016, deforestation rates in its Amazon Biome dropped substantially, preventing almost seven million tons of CO2 emissions.

    This success helped the nation secure a $28.2 million Results-based Payment (RBP) from the Green Climate Fund (GCF) in 2020 to implement the Colombia REDD+ (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation) project, known in the country as Vision Amazonia.

    Led by the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Vision Amazonia promotes conservation and sustainable land management in rapid deforestation areas like Mapiripán.

    © FAO/Felipe Rodríguez

    A silvopastoral system in the Amazon integrates trees and shrubs into livestock pastures. This increases carbon storage in trees and soil, reducing greenhouse gas emissions from livestock and fertilizer and boosting resilience to climate change.

    ‘We, the community’

    In coordination with the Colombian government and local communities, the FAO project which runs until the end of 2026, protects the Amazon biome through forest monitoring and sustainable management practices, benefitting smallholders, farmer associations and local authorities alike.

    “We, the community, are already aware of the problem caused by climate change. Now when we go out into the field to do work, the sun is so strong that we cannot resist the heat anymore. We have truly begun to develop an awareness of the need for preservation of these beautiful ecosystems that we have in the territory,” says Marco.

    “If the forest thrives and we thrive, the animals thrive,” Sandra adds.

    © FAO/Felipe Rodríguez

    Deforestation releases carbon into the atmosphere, which fuels climate change and further harms forests.

    “With this project,” explains Sandra Vanegas, FAO local markets coordinator, “we are ensuring forest conservation while families generate resources through associative projects.

    “We are promoting agroforestry gardens where they can produce for their own consumption and conserve seeds and endemic plants.”

    Indeed, Marco and Sandra’s communities have now gained a deep understanding of agroforestry, a sustainable land use practice that combines agriculture and forestry. Through educational visits, they’ve witnessed firsthand how to revitalize their soils with organic fertilizer and grow their own food.

    Marco recounts a gradual awakening regarding their livestock. “We didn’t know at the time,” he admits, “that we didn’t need a huge extension of pastures for our cows to have good nourishment.”

    The initiative, he says, opened their eyes through a series of training sessions. Now they have started to implement silvopastoral systems by planting trees on their family farms.

    “They gave us a broader perspective, helping us realize the damage and consequences of continued deforestation. That’s when we, as leaders, took a stronger stance to protect the forest.”

    This newfound awareness led them to form the AGROCIARE association to pursue sustainable projects. For instance, they have been actively working to plant and commercialize the cacay tree, a native Amazonian species known for its nutritious fruit.

    With training in legal and organizational skills, they’ve strengthened their association’s capacity to advocate for environmental protection and better livelihoods.

    “Our vision is to ensure that the treasure of our environment and rainforest is protected by those of us who live here,” Marco declares.

    By working with the rural communities, the programme is finding climate solutions that are effective, equitable and offer a different future for the Amazon.

    Agrifood systems solutions are climate, biodiversity and land solutions

    This story is part of a three-part series from FAO on climate, biodiversity and land solutions in Colombia. These stories take you from the arid landscapes of La Guajira, where the SCALA programme is supporting climate resilience and food security, to the Pacific coast, where a Global Environmental Facility-supported project is working to conserve rich biodiversity while also contributing to the pursuit of peace.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: ‘Cut the theatrics’: UN climate chief tells COP29 negotiators to focus on solutions as talks enter final week

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    Climate and Environment

    As COP29 climate talks in Baku enter their final week, the UN climate chief told negotiators on Monday to “cut the theatrics,” get down to business and hammer out a new finance deal to compensate countries for climate-driven damages and pay for a clean-energy transition.

    “We can’t lose sight of the forest because we’re tussling over individual trees,” said Simon Stiell, urging delegates to wrap up “less contentious issues” as early as possible this week, so there is enough time for the major political decisions.

    COP29 opened in the Azerbaijan capital this past Monday with the main goal of reaching agreement on scaling up finance to address the worsening impacts of global warming.

    Despite an early breakthrough on standards that will pave the way for a UN-governed carbon market, the talks on climate finance have been slow and contentions, with delegations digging in their heels rather than looking for common ground.

    Time for business, not brinkmanship

    “Bluffing, brinksmanship, and pre-mediated playbooks” are burning up precious time and running down the goodwill needed for an ambitious package, emphasized Mr. Stiell, who is the Executive Secretary of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), which convenes the annual COP meetings.

    The stakes are too high for “an outbreak of ‘you-first-ism’…where groups of parties dig in and refuse to move on one issue, until others move elsewhere,” he said and the only way to get the job done is “if Parties are prepared to step forward in parallel, bringing us closer to common ground.”

    Mr. Stiell’s plea comes after UN Secretary-General António Guterres also voiced concern over the state of negotiations at COP29, noting that countries must agree to an ambitious climate finance goal that meets the scale of the challenge faced by developing countries.

    Speaking to reporters in Rio on Sunday ahead of the G20 summit, the UN chief said that “now is the time for leadership by example from the world’s largest economies and emitters. Failure is not an option.”

    Beyond the negotiations, other meetings and high-level events at COP29 touched on a range of topics – from the climate-health nexus to human development and education.

    UN News/Nargiz Shekinskaya

    Catarina from Brazil (left) and Francisco from Columbia (right) call for a UN children’s COP during a UNICEF press conference on youth-led climate action, held at COP29 in Baku

    ‘No decisions about us without us!’ 

    Children and young people also made their voices heard at several lively and well attended events, as they called for protection from the effects of climate change; measures to prevent further destruction of the planet; and stepped-up efforts to preserve nature.

    They urged decision-makers at COP29 to give them a seat at the climate negotiating table and to urgently consider organizing a separate UN climate conference specifically for children.

    According to the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF), climate change impacts the well-being of nearly 1 billion children – half of the world’s child population. Air pollution, infectious diseases, environmental degradation, and extreme weather events compromise children’s health, hinder their education, and deprive them of the nutrition they need to grow and thrive.

    During heatwaves, young children are at risk of dehydration because their bodies cannot regulate temperature effectively. Floods and droughts impoverish families, leaving children to bear the consequences.

    “Floods force school closures in Liberia, and children miss school,” said Juanita Tamba of the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts, the world’s largest volunteer movement for the empowerment of girls and young women.

    “And during the dry season, we have to travel long distances to fetch water, and girls often face violence while trying to get water,” she told UN News.

    UNICEF estimates that climate-related disasters cause approximately 40 million children to miss school each year, and the number is rising. 

    Zunaira, from Pakistan, one of the youngest participants in Baku, is attending COP29 with the support of UNICEF.  

    She told UN News: “When there are floods in my country, resources become limited, and there are not enough for everyone. Children, especially girls, are the most affected.”

    Speaking at a UNICEF press conference on youth-led climate action, Rasul, a youth from Azerbaijan highlighted the dire condition of the Caspian Sea. “Due to rising temperatures and prolonged heatwaves, the water level in this amazing body of water is falling,” he said.  

    Baku is situated on the coast of the Caspian, the biggest inland body of water in the world. Rasul observed that the effects on Azerbaijan’s people are becoming more noticeable as the shoreline recedes, particularly the rising temperatures: “Both summer and winter in Azerbaijan are getting warmer.” 

    ‘The future needs a voice!’

    Catarina, a 16-year-old environmental activist from Salvador, Brazil, a city on the Atlantic Ocean, also shared her experiences.  

    A passionate surfer since childhood, she noted: “When I was nine years old, I actually felt the ocean warming. I was constantly in the water and… I realized something was wrong when [it] was much hotter than normal in areas I frequented. Then I noticed coral reefs covered in white spots – coral bleaching was something I had never seen before.”

    Despite her young age, Catarina is an experienced climate activist. When she was just 12 years old, she joined other children in filing a complaint with the Geneva-based UN Committee on the Rights of the Child to protest government inaction on the climate crisis.

    “It was the first time children brought a global complaint through a UN mechanism. We denounced five countries, and as a result, the UN officially recognized that children’s rights are affected by the lack of climate action,” Catarina said.

    In an emotional speech, she emphasized: “Children have things to say, and we know how to say them. We need the space… not at COP30. We need a COP for children right now!”  

    According to Catarina, she was fairly certain that it might be too late to make significant change by the time she started her job or rose to a position of influence.

    “Effective actions must happen now. That’s why children need to be included in the decision-making process. If we are the future, then this future needs to have a voice,” she concluded. 

    UNICEF Executive Director Katherine Russell has echoed Catarina’s sentiments, saying earlier this month: “At COP29 and through Nationally Determined Contributions, governments must prioritize children’s rights,”  

    “Children need to be included in the solutions, and global leaders must make health care, education, water, and sanitation systems more resilient to the impacts of climate change. Now is the time to act.”

    Under the Paris Agreement, countries are required to submit updated national climate action plans, or NDC’s, next year at COP30.  

    In that context, UNICEF has warned that less than half of the current plans are child- or youth-sensitive, and only three percent were developed through participatory processes involving children.

    Against this background, 16-year-old Payton Esau from Canada brought a manifesto to the climate conference, signed by 800 of her peers.  

    “We demand that governments communicate in a language young people can understand so we know what measures are being taken to combat climate change. Governments must act without delay to keep warming below 1.5 degrees Celsius,” Payton told UN News.

    Want to know more? Check out our special events page, where you can find all our coverage of COP29, including stories and videos, explainers and our newsletter.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: COP29: Governments, industry must stop ‘lip-service’ on methane and slash emissions, says UNEP

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    Climate and Environment

    The UN environment agency chief warned the COP29 climate summit in Baku on Friday that methane emissions must come down – “and come down fast” –to have any chance of controlling global warming. 

    That message comes after a new UN report revealed that, over the past two years, a sophisticated system that detects significant methane leaks has sent 1,200 notifications to governments and businesses, but only one per cent of those notifications have been answered.

    Soundcloud

    “We now have a proven system to identify major leaks so they can be quickly stopped – often with simple repairs. We are quite literally talking about screwing bolts tighter in some cases,” Inger Anderson said, launching the report, which highlights plume alerts from the Methane Alert and Response System (MARS).

    The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) chief’s alert was just one of the many key events taking place today at COP29. The latest annual UN climate summit has been underway in the Azerbaijan capital city since Monday and heads into the weekend with experts and government negotiators set for tough talks over climate finance and emission reductions. The goal is reaching an agreement by the time the meeting wraps up at the end of next week.

    What is methane?

    According to UNEP, human-caused methane emissions are responsible for roughly one-third of the planet’s current warming. Reducing these emissions is the fastest, most cost-effective way to slow global warming in the near-term and is essential to averting critical climate damage.

    Three industries account for the majority of human-caused methane: agriculture, waste and fossil fuels. Coal mining contributes 12 per cent of emissions in the fossil fuel industry, while the extraction, processing, and distribution of oil and gas account for 23 per cent. 

    About 20 per cent of methane emissions in the waste sector come from wastewater and landfills. Finally, about 32 per cent of emissions in the agricultural sector come from grazing livestock and manure, while a further eight per cent come from rice farming.

    Right now, there is roughly 2.5 times the amount of methane in the atmosphere than there was during pre-industrial times and emissions have been rising in recent years, according to the UN World Meteorological Organization (WMO).

    How can we slash methane?

    While methane is considered an ‘aggressive greenhouse gas’ it is actually easier to reduce than carbon dioxide, or CO2, the better-known heat-trapping gas, because methane has a shorter lifespan in the atmosphere.

    The UNEP-led International Methane Emissions Observatory (IMEO) and the hi-tech MARS system use artificial intelligence (AI) and satellite data to detect gas releases and to help industry and countries identify and deal with large methane emissions.

    “Governments and oil and gas companies must stop paying lip-service to this challenge when answers are staring them in the face,” stated Ms. Anderson, UNEP Executive Director. 

    Instead, they should recognize the significant opportunity presented “and start responding to alerts by plugging leaks that are spewing climate-warming methane into the atmosphere. The tools are ready, the targets are set – now it is time to act,” she said.

    While more remains to be done, the report does highlight examples of nations and companies responding – proving the value of data-driven solutions such as MARS. In 2024, the IMEO facility verified action to reduce emissions from major leaks in Azerbaijan and the United States. 

    In Algeria and Nigeria, MARS notifications and engagement led to direct action from the governments and oil and gas companies to address large methane leaks. For example, UNEP says that in the Nigeria case, the six-month leak emitted methane equivalent to 400,000 cars being driven for a year and was able to be fixed in under two weeks by simply replacing faulty equipment.

    Want to know more? Check out our special events page, where you can find all our coverage of COP29, including stories and videos, explainers and our newsletter.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Interview with Rafael Epstein, Melbourne Mornings, ABC Radio

    Source: Australian Treasurer

    Rafael Epstein:

    Pretty big announcement from the federal government today. They’re going to let the banks, when they lend you money for a mortgage, they can relax the rules when it comes to the debt you owe for your university degree. So, you might say, woohoo, fantastic. You can borrow more or borrow sooner. Is it financially smart? Andrew Leigh joins us. He speaks for the Albanese government on this.

    Andrew is the Assistant Minister for Competition, Charities, Treasury and Employment. Andrew Leigh, good morning.

    Andrew Leigh:

    Good morning, Raf. Great to be with you.

    Epstein:

    Is it a good idea?

    Leigh:

    Certainly is. We need to make sure that more Australians get into housing and to the extent that lenders have been taking into account your HECS debt, that can sometimes hold young people back from home ownership. And the fact is HECS is not a debt like any other, it’s a debt whose repayments stop if you lose your job. It’s proportional to your income. It is a repayment that occurs through an income contingent loan. And so, taking that off the table when lenders are considering how to allocate funding and who to lend to is really important in terms of boosting home ownership rates.

    Epstein:

    So, I understand that it’ll allow more people to buy a home. That’s a good thing. I’m just not sure if it’s a smart thing financially. I mean, if I’m earning say $80 grand, I still have to, I’ve got to pay that HECS debt. So, if interest rates go up suddenly, it is an extra cost that I have to pay. Why should the banks not take that into consideration?

    Leigh:

    Well, the first thing to say, we’re reducing those HECS debts. A re‑elected Albanese government would cut all the HECS debts by 20 per cent. We’ve already changed indexation so that that’s operating off the lesser of wages or inflation and backdated that over a year, saving hundreds of dollars for the typical HECS debtor.

    But more broadly to your question, Raf, this is an appropriate way of recognising that an income contingent loan isn’t like having a car loan, for example. It’s a fundamentally different kind of loan and we want to make sure that people don’t have to choose between getting an education or getting a house, that both of those are easily open to young Australians.

    Epstein:

    A slightly different issue. I know your time is short because parliament is sitting. Free trade is clearly something that Donald Trump supporters don’t like. And I think it’s worth noting the US Presidents kind of almost torn up the free trade agreement between America and Australia by even talking about tariffs. But is free trade, is it actually fair? Is it effective? Does it actually help all of us?

    Leigh:

    Well, Raf, the way I think about trade is it’s another form of comparative advantage. Just as most of us don’t fix our own car or cut our own hair or make our own wine, so too countries tend to specialise in what they do best. And this isn’t a zero‑sum game. Trade isn’t like the Eurovision Song Contest or the Olympics. Trade is a way in which each of us can benefit from specialising in what we do best. And just as your hairdresser doesn’t defeat you when you get a haircut, Japan doesn’t defeat you when you buy a Honda.

    That is an example of comparative advantage in action. And Australia, with 0.3 per cent of the global population, benefits enormously from open markets. The tariff liberalisation in Australia saved the typical Australian household around $4,000 a year. And my party, the Labor Party, was in the thick of that with Whitlam, Hawke and Keating spearheading significant tariff cuts. So, of course we’ve been strong advocates of open markets on the global stage.

    The conversation between Prime Minister Albanese and President Trump went well and the Americans are considering our request for an exemption.

    Epstein:

    I just wanted to give you one example. There’s a window maker in Melbourne called Oceania Glass in Dandenong. They’ve got 260 employees. Their problem, they say, is the dumping of cheap windows from Thailand. I did go on the default website.

    We’ve had a free trade agreement with Thailand for 20 years, so we get lots of tariff‑free cars, trucks and air conditioners. So, that’s the good part of free trade with Thailand. The bad part of free trade with Thailand is they can sell really cheap windows.

    And we’re going to lose our only domestic architectural window maker. Is that just a sort of a cost we have to put up with, so we get cheap air conditioners? Is that the trade off?

    Leigh:

    Well, the Australian Government takes anti‑dumping very seriously. Dumping is where an overseas exporter aims to drive down the price, temporarily knock out the local producers and then spike the price back up again. So, ultimately consumers suffer.

    What we’ve seen over the course of, of the last couple of decades, Raf, is Australian manufacturers increasingly moving into higher and higher and more advanced manufacturing, more value added. We don’t produce kids’ pyjamas anymore, but we do well in high‑end fashion.

    Epstein:

    But we’re not going to have anybody making windows for houses at all in the country. Is that a cost? Are we just happy to lose that because we’re moving into more advanced manufacturing?

    Leigh:

    Not at all. The government strongly committed to advanced manufacturing and strongly committed to working with our manufacturing sector. We’re investing in the skills that are available. The Future Made in Australia plan provides resources to encourage a strong Australian manufacturing sector. But the trend throughout the advanced world is for manufacturers to steadily move up and up the value chain.

    That means better jobs for the people working in those sectors, and it means more earnings for the firms in those sectors. So, I think there are great opportunities for Australian manufacturers to increasingly capture that high advanced manufacturing sector.

    Epstein:

    I appreciate your time this morning. Andrew Leigh, thank you.

    Leigh:

    Always a pleasure to chat, Raf.

    Epstein:

    Part of the Anthony Albanese Labor government. Andrew Leigh is the Assistant Minister for Competition, Charities, Treasury and Employment.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China expands silver tourism train services to cater to growing elderly travel market

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

    China expands silver tourism train services to cater to growing elderly travel market

    BEIJING, Feb. 12 — As the sun rose over the snow-capped peaks of the Qinling Mountains, a group of silver-haired retirees eagerly boarded a Silk Road-themed tourism train in Xi’an, the capital of northwest China’s Shaanxi Province.

    For the next three days, these seniors embarked on a leisurely journey through the picturesque landscapes of central China, relaxing in hot springs and savoring local delicacies, traveling on one of many specialized tourism trains that are revolutionizing travel for China’s growing elderly population.

    On Tuesday, nine Chinese government agencies and state-owned enterprises, including the Ministry of Commerce (MOC) and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, unveiled an action plan to expand and improve senior-friendly tourism train services, in the latest bid to create more inclusive and enjoyable travel experiences for the elderly.

    The initiative aims to enrich the tourism market, promote services consumption and cater to the growing demand for elderly-friendly travel options. It plans to create a nationwide network of specialized trains catering to older travelers by 2027, with over 100 designed routes and 2,500 scheduled trips annually, according to a press conference held later on Tuesday.

    The concept of senior-focused rail travel has been gaining momentum across China. According to China Railway Qinghai-Xizang Group Co., Ltd., over 77 percent of passengers on its special tourism trains have been aged 55 or above in recent years.

    A 15-day railway tour to the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region has proved particularly popular, allowing seniors to explore the vast region’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage in comfort. “Compared to self-drive tours, railway tours cut costs, save time and conserve energy, making them very suitable for elderly travelers,” 61-year-old Wang Zhanqi, who hails from Qinghai Province and took the Xinjiang railway tour last year, told Xinhua.

    He particularly enjoyed photographing the winding streets and traditional architecture in the ancient city of Kashgar, and sampling water from Karez wells, which collect the melted ice and snow from the Tianshan Mountains.

    Shaanxi’s Silk Road train, capable of carrying over 200 passengers per trip, is equipped with senior-friendly features like wide beds, temperature control systems and emergency call buttons. The train also boasts such entertainment facilities as karaoke rooms and mahjong tables, creating a lively and social atmosphere for its passengers.

    These specialized trains provide more than just transportation, offering comprehensive services tailored to the needs of older travelers. Many feature onboard medical staff, health monitoring equipment and specially designed meals. The popular Panda Express service, which departs from Sichuan Province, includes niche cultural activities such as ethnic-style welcome ceremonies and traditional performances, adding a level of cultural immersion to an already distinctive journey.

    “We strive to ensure a safer, more comfortable travel experience for the elderly,” said Yang Tao, general manager of Xi’an Railway International Travel Service Co., Ltd. “Silver-haired tourists generally have strong purchasing power and are inclined to buy handicrafts.”

    The economic potential of this market is substantial. According to a recent blue paper on China’s silver economy, the sector is currently valued at 7 trillion yuan (about 976 billion U.S. dollars), accounting for about 6 percent of the country’s GDP, with tourism being a key growth area.

    Elderly adults in China had amassed wealth totaling 78.4 trillion yuan by 2023, according to the China National Committee on Aging. And the overall silver economy is projected to reach 30 trillion yuan by 2035, which would represent 10 percent of China’s GDP.

    Recognizing the increasing purchasing power and travel aspirations of China’s elderly population, the action plan released on Tuesday outlines a series of measures to develop the sector further, including measures to expand services offerings, develop themed routes, and enhance medical and senior care services on trains.

    Measures will be taken to upgrade the trains so that they are more age-friendly, green and comfortable, which will be supported by China’s large-scale equipment upgrade and consumer goods trade-in programs, and additional measures will be implemented to tailor themed travel routes and products for seniors.

    Highlighting the integration of health care services into senior tourism trains, the action plan notes that medical professionals will be stationed on board, and medical expenses incurred during travel will be eligible for cross-regional medical insurance settlement, simplifying the claims process for elderly passengers.

    The plan also advocates improved coordination between tourism trains and scenic areas, encouraging local tourist destinations to offer tailored services such as reservations, green channels, transportation connections and dedicated reception facilities for senior travelers.

    The action plan aims to create a comprehensive national network of senior-friendly tourism trains by 2027, with established service standards and recognizable brand identities.

    These specialized train services will utilize off-peak travel periods to avoid conflicting with regular passenger services, ensuring that the trains operate efficiently without disrupting the broader transportation system, MOC official Kong Dejun said at the press conference.

    From onboard medical care to senior-friendly meals and entertainment, silver tourism trains are more than a mode of transport: they are redefining what it means to travel in one’s golden years. Analysts note that China’s railways, already arteries of economic development, are poised to enrich the lives of the nation’s growing elderly population.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI: ABN AMRO Bank posts net profit of EUR 397 million in Q4 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ABN AMRO Bank posts net profit of EUR 397 million in Q4 2024

    12 February 2025

    Q4 Key messages

    • Good finish to the year: Q4 net profit of EUR 397 million, supported by continued high net interest income and fee income
    • Strong result in 2024: Net profit of EUR 2.4 billion and a return on equity of 10.1%
    • Continued mortgage portfolio growth: Increase of EUR 1.1 billion in Q4 and full-year growth of over EUR 5 billion, supported by an increase in clients
    • Net interest income (NII) further improved: Q4 benefited from higher Treasury result, resulting in NII of EUR 6.5 billion for the full year. Expected NII for 2025 between EUR 6.2 and 6.4 billion
    • Continued fee growth: Fee income increased compared to the previous quarter, resulting in fee growth for the year of over 7%, driven by better performance in all client units
    • Costs remain under control: Costs for the full year, excluding large incidentals, in line with guidance at EUR 5.3 billion. For 2025, costs are expected to be broadly flat
    • Solid credit quality: Impairments of EUR 9 million in Q4, reflecting increases in individually provisioned client files. Net impairment releases of EUR 21 million for the year
    • Strong capital position: Basel III CET1 ratio of 14.5% and Basel IV CET1 ratio estimated at a similar level
    • Final dividend of EUR 0.75 per share proposed

    Robert Swaak, CEO:

    “ABN AMRO delivered another strong full-year result, with a net profit of EUR 2.4 billion for 2024 and a return on equity of over 10%. The year saw further growth in our net interest income and fee income. With the Dutch mortgage market rebounding during 2024, we managed to increase our market share for new production from 16% to 19%. In 2024, we also managed to grow the corporate loan book in our transition themes; digital, new energies and mobility. Our underlying cost base was in line with our guidance of EUR 5.3 billion and our solid credit quality led to net impairment releases. We continued to execute on our strategy of being a personal bank in the digital age. Furthermore, our sustainability efforts were rewarded with our return to the S&P Global Dow Jones Sustainability Index Europe.

    With almost half the global population holding elections, 2024 was an exceptional year. We expect that the geopolitical ramifications and economic impact of these elections will be felt in the coming years. The ECB lowered interest rates a number of times as inflation subsided and Eurozone GDP growth was slow. The growth of the Dutch economy was muted during 2024 due to lower exports and business investments, while inflation remained elevated compared to the European average. Domestic demand grew driven by an increase in wages and house prices increased by almost 9% during the year.

    We were again able to grow our mortgage book in the fourth quarter with EUR 1.1 billion. Our corporate loan book decreased in Q4 largely reflecting more active capital allocation and steering. We transferred credit risk on a portfolio of corporate loans and decided to materially reduce our international Asset Based Finance activities in Germany and the United Kingdom.

    Our fourth quarter financial results were solid, with a net profit of EUR 397 million. Net interest income increased to EUR 1,668 million, reflecting a strong Treasury result. Fee income increased again this quarter, up 11% on the same quarter last year, with all client units contributing to the growth. Underlying costs rose during the fourth quarter, as was expected given the additional vacancies that were filled.

    Our solid credit quality and benign economic circumstances led to another quarter of very limited impairments of EUR 9 million. Risk-weighted assets decreased by EUR 3.0 billion, largely reflecting business developments including capital steering and data quality improvements. These factors, combined with the increase of CET1 capital during the quarter, resulted in the Basel III capital ratio rising to 14.5%. We made progress with the implementation of Basel IV and now estimate the Basel IV capital ratio to be at a similar level as our Basel III capital ratio. We will provide an update on the outcome of our capital assessment when publishing our Q2 results.

    In 2020, we launched our current strategy: A personal bank in the digital age. Since then, we have made significant progress on the three strategic pillars that define the crucial focus areas for creating value for our key stakeholder groups; clients, shareholders, colleagues and society as a whole.

    We have continued investing in our customer experience, focusing on attractive segments where we can grow by bringing convenience into the daily lives of our clients and expertise where it matters. We are making a significant investment in Germany with the intended acquisition of Hauck Aufhäuser Lampe, a private bank with a long standing history, positioning ABN AMRO as a leading private bank in the German market. Our Dutch retail bank provides all services and products through online channels, supported by a network of 25 retail branches. For those clients that need active support with daily banking tasks, we doubled our ‘Help with Banking’ advisers to 200 during the year. We are continuing our efforts to improve our client services and product offering which is reflected in our improved Net Promoter Score (NPS) compared to last year within all client units. We also launched our new brand promise ‘For every new beginning’ to appeal to the entrepreneurial spirit of our clients and highlight the expertise that we can offer. We have welcomed the 10 millionth active user of Tikkie, our payment request application. Its success has even led to the word ‘tikkie’ being included in the Dutch dictionary. More and more businesses are now turning to Tikkie for invoicing, solidifying our leading position in peer-to-peer payments.

    We have continued embedding sustainability in our operations and the asset volume of client loans with a sustainability component (including mortgages and corporate loans) and ESG & impact investments rose from 34% to 37% in 2024. We remain focused on the decarbonisation of our loan portfolio. Additional targets for passenger cars, mortgages, as well as the upstream and midstream part of our oil and gas portfolio will be disclosed in our integrated annual report. Related to our aim to halt and reverse biodiversity loss, we have added insurance products for farmers who reduce their use of chemical pesticides. Other developments in the fourth quarter included the Sustainable Impact Fund’s acquisition of a stake in Urban Mine, a leader in sustainable construction and concrete recycling, and the pilot launch of the Human Rights Remedy Mechanism, which allows individuals to raise concerns about human rights violations linked to our corporate clients.

    During 2024, we continued to allocate significant resources to making our bank future proof. We maintained our leading position in cyber resilience, as evidenced by external parties like BitSight. We added further use cases of Gen-AI in the fourth quarter with the introduction of an AI chatbot for Tikkie and a voicebot for incoming calls from our credit card clients. This will further build on our digital product experience and client contact, for which we are already externally recognised as the digital leader in the Dutch banking sector.

    There are multiple complex and demanding projects running in parallel in relation to changes in the regulatory environment, and we made significant progress across the board during the year. We are in the final phase of simplifying our model landscape while at the same time finalising the implementation of Basel IV. Furthermore, we are continuously refining our AML processes, and are implementing CSRD and other sustainability-related regulations in our reporting. These programmes will continue to impact parts of our organisation, despite the investments in additional change capacity that we made during the year.

    In January 2025, we announced that Marguerite Bérard is the intended new CEO of ABN AMRO. Following regulatory approval, she will be appointed by the Supervisory Board after being introduced to the AGM in April. I am very pleased with the nomination of Marguerite. In the short time that I have had the pleasure of getting to know her, I have become impressed by her inspiring personality and deep knowledge of the banking sector. I am confident that she will successfully lead the bank forward, building on the strong foundations that we have in place.

    As I look back, I am proud of what ABN AMRO has achieved and I value the dedication and commitment that clients, shareholders and colleagues have shown to this iconic Dutch institution. I am confident that ABN AMRO will continue banking for better, for generations to come.

     

    Key figures and indicators
     (in EUR millions)

    		 Q4 2024 Q4 2023 Change Q3 2024 Change
    Operating income 2,240 2,041 10% 2,253 1%
    Operating expenses 1,614 1,462 10% 1,334 21%
    Operating result 626 580 8% 920 -32%
    Impairment charges on financial instruments 9 -83   -29  
    Income tax expenses 220 117 88% 259 -15%
    Profit/(loss) for the period 397 545 -27% 690 -42%
               
    Cost/income ratio 72.0% 71.6%   59.2%  
    Return on average Equity 6.2% 9.5%   11.6%  
    CET1 ratio1 14.5% 14.3%   14.1%  

    This press release is published by ABN AMRO Bank N.V. and contains inside information within the meaning of article 7 (1) to (4) of Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 (Market Abuse Regulation).

    Note to editors, not for publication:
    For more information, please contact

    ABN AMRO Press Office: Jarco de Swart, E-mail: pressrelations@nl.abnamro.com, phone number: +31 (0)20 6288900.

    ABN AMRO Investor Relations: John Heijning, E-mail: investorrelations@nl.abnamro.com, phone number +31 (0)20 6282282.

    1 Capital ratio for Q3 2024 are pro-forma, including 50% of the net profit. For more information about the ratio, please refer to the Capital management section in our quarterly report.

    Attachments

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Politics with Michelle Grattan: David Littleproud on US tariffs, a government-owned Rex, and the Nationals’ identity

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

    With the election only months away, the Labor government finds itself suddenly battling with the Trump administration for an exemption from new US tariffs on steel and aluminium.

    The opposition has supported the effort, but it also claims a Coalition government would be better place to deal with Donald Trump.

    Joining us on this podcast, Nationals leader David Littleproud says if Labor fails to get an exemption on the tariffs, a Dutton government would try again:

    Of course we will and I think that the relationship that Peter Dutton had and still has in Washington will play very much towards that. In fact, I was in Washington with Peter in July last year and so he can walk the halls of Washington with authority and confidence. And I think it’s important that we want this solved and it doesn’t matter who’s in power. This is team Australia, and we’ve got to have a bipartisan approach and I think Pete has shown that leadership.

    On net zero, while Littleproud firmly backs the target as in Australai’s national interest, he also says if the world walked away from it, so would we.

    What everyone’s trying to do is protect regional Australia. But, just so everyone appreciates, if we’re not signed up to net zero by 2050, the people are hurt the most are the people in regional Australia, our farmers and our miners, because if we don’t sign up to what the rest of the world has, the world gets to impose on us a border adjustment mechanism. That’s a tariff and that means we get less for what we produce in regional Australia.

    Now if the world changes and walks away from net zero, then we walk away with it. But we’re not the United States, we’re not the biggest economy in the world. You got to understand your place in the world, and you’ve got to understand the unintended consequences.

    The government this week announced it would be willing to take over Rex Airlines if it can’t be sold. Littleproud is sceptical:

    Well, I think we’ve spent over $130 million of Australian taxpayer’s money and don’t have a lot to show for it. I think what we’ve got to also look at is that Rex was a viable regional airline before they had a dalliance into competing with Qantas and Virgin in the golden triangle between Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne. They couldn’t compete and instead of spending money on that, they should have upgraded their fleet.

    The government has wasted enough time. They should open up conversation with the broader regional aviation sector, which they haven’t done, to find a solution, whether that be one in totality of a purchaser for Rex or whether that be a carve out of players and with policy levers is being pulled, rather than the Australian taxpayer having to cut the check in entirety. So I think we haven’t exhausted all the options.

    On the coming election campaign, Littleproud stresses the closeness between the Nationals and the Liberals, rather than seeking to emphasise a separate Nationals’ pitch.

    Peter and I, I think, have the tightest coalition that we’ve ever had. There’s not a piece of paper between us. We’re literally joined at the hip and our campaigns will complement one another and in fact, they’ll intertwine in many places. I think that’s important that the people of Australia understand that the only coalition that they can trust to form government is the Nationals and Liberals, not Labor, Greens and teals – that that is the only coalition that’ll give them stability, not chaos.

    Michelle Grattan 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. Politics with Michelle Grattan: David Littleproud on US tariffs, a government-owned Rex, and the Nationals’ identity – https://theconversation.com/politics-with-michelle-grattan-david-littleproud-on-us-tariffs-a-government-owned-rex-and-the-nationals-identity-249708

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: On Senate Floor, Rosen Announces Opposition to Tulsi Gabbard Confirmation as Director of National Intelligence

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    Watch Senator Rosen’s Full Remarks HERE.
    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) spoke on the Senate floor to oppose the confirmation of Tulsi Gabbard as Director of National Intelligence. In her remarks, Senator Rosen emphasized Gabbard’s lack of qualifications to lead the U.S. Intelligence Community. She also voiced her serious concerns about Gabbard’s connections to America’s adversaries, including Vladimir Putin and other brutal dictators.
    Below are excerpts of Senator Rosen’s floor remarks:
    Every member of this body is sworn to protect our national security and safety and the well-being of the American people. There is no more important responsibility for Congress to fulfill than this.
    Senators take an oath to defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic.
    And when the American people go to sleep at night, they rest assured that our homeland will be kept safe.
    […]
    At a time of rising global threats, having Tulsi Gabbard serving in this role would make America less safe. And I want to say that again – would make us less safe. Full stop.
    Our allies are dumbfounded, and our adversaries, well, in Moscow, Beijing, Tehran, and all over the world – they’re laughing at us. 
    They’re laughing at the idea that the United States of America would weaken its national security by placing someone so deeply unqualified in such a critical role for our safety, for our security.
    Our adversaries, well, they are overjoyed that they’re going to have an ally leading the American Intelligence Community.
    And my concerns, they’re not political. After all, Ms. Gabbard and I used to serve in Congress together in the same caucus when she represented a district from Hawaii as a Democrat.
    My concerns are that she not only lacks the qualifications needed, but that she has also peddled talking points straight from the Kremlin. 
    Think about it. Tulsi Gabbard has never worked in intelligence before. As a member of the House of Representatives, she didn’t even serve on the House Intelligence Committee.
    During her time in the House, Ms. Gabbard actually voted against – she voted against – critical national security-related legislation, like increased funding for preventing terrorism in high-density, high-threat level urban areas like my city of Las Vegas. She voted against all of that security for Nevada.
    This funding was actually pursued by former Nevada congressman Joe Heck, who’s a Republican, and it’s something I’ve continued working to secure in the Senate.
    And yet, Tulsi Gabbard, she voted against [the] bipartisan proposal to protect our cities from terrorism.
    And she was the only member of [the] House Armed Services Committee to vote against the National Defense Authorization Act every year during markup.
    As concerning as her lack of experience and tendency to vote against our security is, Ms. Gabbard’s history of cozying up to America’s adversaries is far, far more troubling.
    Her actions and words suggest that she has been directly influenced by foreign propaganda, whether that comes from Russia, from Syria, or other brutal dictatorships. 
    […]
    Just look at her justification of Russia’s brutal invasion of Ukraine, which she did not blame [on] Vladimir Putin, who, let’s be clear, is entirely responsible for the invasion. 
    Instead, Ms. Gabbard has parroted Putin’s talking points and placed blame on the United States and on NATO for Russia’s vile assault upon the Ukrainian people.
    We can also look at her attempts to give cover to Syria’s former dictator Bashar Al Assad, who used chemical weapons on his own people, killing kids, killing babies – killing babies in his own attempt to hold onto power. 
    Ms. Gabbard even went to Syria to buddy up with Assad and then came back to the U.S. to defend his killing of innocent men, women, and children. Those babies he killed to hang onto power.
    It’s sickening actually.
    It’s a betrayal of our country’s values.
    Time and time again, Ms. Gabbard has rejected the findings and conclusions of our own intelligence officials, and has instead chosen to, well, cozy up to dictators and our adversaries.
    […]
    I urge my colleagues to review Ms. Gabbard’s recent hearing before the Senate […] Select Committee on Intelligence. In response to almost every question, Tulsi Gabbard avoided providing any real answer. Whether it came from a Democrat or a Republican, she simply dodged the questions over and over and over.
    And that’s not leadership; this is not an example of someone who is qualified; and this is not a candidate who will keep America safe.
    I urge my Republican colleagues to join me in listening to common sense, to thinking about our men and women who serve, to think about folks around the globe, to think about everyone here in America to reject this clearly unqualified and dangerous nominee.
    It doesn’t have to be this way. Let’s have President Trump nominate someone else who we can agree is qualified for this critical and consequential role who has our nation’s best interests in their heart.
    Tulsi Gabbard is not that person.
    The safety and well-being of our country depend on having a qualified nominee.
    Again, I urge my Republican [colleagues] to join us, to reject Tulsi Gabbard and put someone up who has the heart and experience to do this important job.
    Thank you.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Sobyanin: Moscow Zoo takes first place in the world in species diversity

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    63 species of animals have become new residents of the Moscow Zoo. Rare animals listed in the Red Book have also taken up residence in the enclosures. This was reported by Sergei Sobyanin in his telegram channel.

    “In total, 300 new inhabitants from two dozen regions of Russia and other countries appeared here last year. Among them are three Malayan bear cubs: Masha, Luchik and Zvezdochka.

    The names have been chosenMuscovites in the Active Citizen project,” the Mayor of Moscow wrote.

    Source: Sergei Sobyanin’s Telegram channel @Mos_Sobyanin

    New residents have also settled in the “Animal Island” exhibit. Now you can see spotted hyenas there. In addition, as part of international cooperation, a black vulture was brought to the Moscow Zoo from the Alma-Ata Zoo.

    Two bison from Belarus have arrived at the zoo in Veliky Ustyug. This is part of a program to form a sustainable population of these animals. Since August, 37 dogs have been living on the zoo’s territory near Moscow, transported from shelters in the Kursk regionThey are cared for by staff and volunteers.

    The Moscow Zoo has become the first in the world in terms of the diversity of its collection. It is home to more than 1,200 species of animals, including such rare ones as Amur leopards and Sumatran orangutans.

    This year, the Moscow Zoo celebrates its 161st birthday. In honor of the holiday, guests will be given themed excursions, master classes, lectures, film screenings, interactive classes, and quests. You can visit them from February 12 to 16.

    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 access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    HTTPS: //vv.mos.ru/mayor/tkhemes/1237505/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Powerless – another Asia-Pacific angle on the long siege of USAID

    COMMENTARY: By Robin Davies

    Much has been and much more will be written about the looming abolition of USAID.

    It’s “the removal of a huge and important tool of American global statecraft” (Konyndyk), or the wood-chipping of a “viper’s nest of radical-left marxists who hate America” (Musk) or, more reasonably, the unwarranted cancellation of an organisation that should have been reviewed and reformed.

    Commentators will have a lot to say, some of it exaggerated, about the varieties of harm caused by this decision, and about its legality.

    Some will welcome it from a conservative perspective, believing that USAID was either not aligned with or acting against the interests of the United States, or was proselytising wokeness, or was a criminal organisation.

    Some, often more quietly, will welcome it from an anti-imperialist or “Southern” perspective, believing that the agency was at worst a blunt instrument of US hegemony or at least a bastion of Western saviourism.

    I want to come at this topic from a different angle, by providing a brief personal perspective on USAID as an organisation, based on several decades of occasional interaction with it during my time as an Australian aid official.

    Essentially, I view USAID as a harried, hamstrung and traumatised organisation, not as a rogue agency or finely-tuned vehicle of US statecraft.

    Peer country representative
    My own experience with USAID began when I participated as a peer country representative in an OECD Development Assistance Committee (DAC) peer review of the US’s foreign assistance programme in the early 1990s, which included visits to US assistance programmes in Bangladesh and the Philippines, as well as to USAID headquarters in Washington DC.

    I later dealt with the agency in many other roles, including during postings to the OECD and Indonesia and through my work on global and regional climate change and health programmes, up to and including the pandemic years.

    An image is firmly lodged in my mind from that DAC peer review visit to Washington. We had had days of back-to-back meetings in USAID headquarters with a series of exhausted-looking, distracted and sometimes grumpy executives who didn’t have much reason to care what the OECD thought about the US aid effort.

    It was a muggy summer day. At one point a particularly grumpy meeting chair, who now rather reminds of me of Gary Oldman’s character in Slow Horses, mopped the sweat from his forehead with his necktie without appearing to be aware of what he was doing. Since then, that man has been my mental model of a USAID official.

    But why so exhausted, distracted and grumpy?

    Precisely because USAID is about the least freewheeling workplace one could construct. Certainly it is administratively independent, in the sense that it was created by an act of Congress, but it also receives its budget from the President and Congress — and that budget comes with so many strings attached, in the form of country- or issue-related “earmarks” or other directives that it might be logically impossible to allocate the funds as instructed.

    Some of these earmarks are broad and unsurprising (for example, specific allocations for HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment under the Bush-era PEPFAR program) while others represent niche interests (Senator John McCain once ridiculed earmarks pertaining to “peanuts, orangutans, gorillas, neotropical raptors, tropical fish and exotic plants”) — but none originates within USAID.

    Informal earmarks calculation
    I recall seeing an informal calculation showing that one could only satisfy all the percentage-based earmarks by giving most of the dollars several quite different jobs to do. A 2002 DAC peer review noted with disapproval some 270 earmarks or other directive provisions in aid legislation; by the time of the most recent peer review in 2022, this number was more like 700.

    Related in part to this congressional micro-management of its budget — along with the usual distrust of organisations that “send” money overseas — USAID labours under particularly gruelling accountability and reporting requirements.

    Andew Natsios — a former USAID Administrator and lifelong Republican who has recently come to USAID’s defence (albeit with arguments that not everybody would deem helpful) — wrote about this in 2010. In terms reminiscent of current events, he described the reign of terror of Lieutenant-General Herbert Beckington, a former Marine Corps officer who led USAID‘s Office of the Inspector General (OIG) from 1977 to 1994.

    He was a powerful iconic figure in Washington, and his influence over the structure of the foreign aid programME remains with USAID today. … Known as “The General” at USAID, Beckington was both feared and despised by career officers. Once referred to by USAID employees as “the agency’s J. Edgar Hoover — suspicious, vindictive, eager to think the worst” …

    At one point, he told the Washington Post that USAID’s white-collar crime rate was “higher than that of downtown Detroit.” … In a seminal moment in this clash between OIG and USAID, photographs were published of two senior officers who had been accused of some transgression being taken away in handcuffs by the IG investigators for prosecution, a scene that sent a broad chill through the career staff and, more than any other single event, forced a redirection of aid practice toward compliance.

    Labyrinthine accountability systems
    On top of the burdens of logically impossible programming and labyrinthine accountability systems is the burden of projecting American generosity. As far as humanly possible, and perhaps a little further, ways must be found of ensuring that American aid is sourced from American institutions, farms or factories and, if it is in the form of commodities, that it is transported on American vessels.

    Failing that, there must be American flags. I remember a USAID officer stationed in Banda Aceh after the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami spending a non-trivial amount of his time seeking to attach sizeable flags to the front of trucks transporting US (but also non-US) emergency supplies around the province of Aceh.

    President Trump’s adviser Stephen Miller has somehow determined to his own satisfaction that the great majority (in fact 98 percent) of USAID personnel are donors to the Democratic Party. Whether or not that is true, let alone relevant, Democrat administrations have arguably been no kinder to USAID than Republican ones over the years.

    Natsios, in the piece cited above, notes that The General was installed under Carter, who ran on anti-Washington ticket, and that there were savage cuts — over 400 positions — to USAID senior career service staffing under Clinton. USAID gets battered no matter which way the wind blows.

    Which brings me back to necktie guy. It has always seemed to me that the platonic form of a USAID officer, while perhaps more likely than not to vote Democrat, is a tired and dispirited person, weary of politicians of all stripes, bowed under his or her burdens, bound to a desk and straitjacketed by accountability requirements, regularly buffeted by new priorities and abrupt restructures, and put upon by the ignorant and suspicious.

    Radical-left Marxists and vipers probably wouldn’t tolerate such an existence for long. Who would? I guess it’s either thieves and money-launderers or battle-scarred professionals intent on doing a decent job against tall odds.

    Robin Davies is an honorary professor at the Australian National University’s (ANU) Crawford School of Public Policy and managing editor of the Devpolicy Blog. He previously held senior positions at Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and AusAID.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: A new public statue of Archie Roach and Ruby Hunter shows a bright future for Australian monuments

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Bronwyn Carlson, Professor, Critical Indigenous Studies and Director of The Centre for Global Indigenous Futures, Macquarie University

    The Conversation, CC BY-SA

    Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are advised this article contains names and images of deceased people.

    Colonial commemorations such as the statues of James Cook or Lachlan Macquarie have become the focus of much contestation, particularly in the annual lead up to January 26.

    As authors of the book Monumental Disruptions: Aboriginal people and colonial commemorations in so-called Australia, we are often contacted by media to respond to whether colonial statues have a place in modern Australia.

    Such statues create controversy because they often honour people who have dubious histories. Journalist Paul Daley has described such statues as “assorted bastards” who have profited from the dispossession and exploitation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

    The problem with many statues is they do not represent a shared history. They either represent colonial figures who have harmed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, or they represent a one-sided perspective that erases the other.

    This year we were asked to respond to a different kind of monument: a statue of music legends Archie Roach and Ruby Hunter, newly erected in the Melbourne suburb of Fitzroy in November 2024.

    An inspirational, unifying force

    Archie Roach, a Gunditjmara (Kirrae Whurrong/Djab Wurrung), Bundjalung senior Elder, songwriter and storyteller sadly died in 2022 aged only 66. Anthony Albanese described him as a “brilliant talent, a powerful and prolific national truth teller”.

    His partner Ruby Hunter was a Ngarrindjeri woman and pioneering singer-songwriter. She was the first Indigenous woman to be signed to a major record label, and sadly died in 2010.

    Both were members of the Stolen Generations – Aboriginal children who were forcibly removed from their families by Australian government authorities as part of the assimilation policy. They met on the street as homeless teenagers.

    Their award-winning music took them around the world together. They performed alongside musical greats such as Tracy Chapman, Paul Kelly and Bob Dylan.

    They have been described as an inspiration to many, and a unifying force who altered the way white Australia saw itself.

    A statue that sits in conversation with community

    The statue of Archie Roach and Ruby Hunter was commissioned by the Yarra City Council in partnership with the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation and Victorian government.

    The statue was made by local artist Darien Pullen. The surrounding park space was designed by Melbourne-based architect Jefa Greenaway (Wailwan/Kamilaroi) and landscape architect Paul Herzich (Kaurna/Ngarrindjeri).

    Fitzroy’s Atherton Gardens is a culturally significant site that once served as a traditional meeting place. It later became a hub of political activism and resistance for Victoria’s Aboriginal community.

    This monument stands in a place rich with history. It is where Archie and Ruby spent meaningful time with their family, and where Archie was reunited with his biological family.

    Their son, Amos Roach, emphasised the deep cultural significance of the location: “it’s a place of cultural significance because it was a meeting place, it’s an old camp”.

    He also reflected on his personal connection to the park, saying, “I was a parkie baby when I was born … and I still come here”.

    The statue stands at street level, embodying an ongoing presence. They are casual, approachable and engaged, as if in conversation with the community.

    Positioned to invite interaction, the statue forms a dynamic relationship with both the people who pass by and the place it inhabits.

    It is embraced rather than imposed, welcomed and wanted.

    The statue stands at street level, in conversation with the community.
    The Conversation, CC BY-SA

    While these figures are Aboriginal icons, they are also remarkable individuals who made significant contributions to Australia. Their commemoration carries meaning and connection for all.

    Compare it to the Cook statue in Hyde Park on Gadigal Country (Sydney). He is perched high above the observer, arm raised to the heavens in a theatrical “ta-daa”.

    Positioned in a location where the man himself never set foot, the text at the base of the statue? make the historically incorrect allegation that he “DISCOVERED THIS TERRITORY, 1770” – something Cook never personally claimed.

    A shared future

    Rather than erecting monuments to colonial figures who oppressed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, reinforcing a history of injustice and loss, we should instead celebrate a shared vision for the future.

    This vision should be built on recognition, respect and the commemoration of those who have made meaningful contributions to Australia.

    This statue of Archie Roach and Ruby Hunter honours two individuals who, despite being shaped by the very colonial histories commemorated by other monuments, have profoundly enriched contemporary Australia through their resilience, talent and contributions.

    Until recently, commemorations of Aboriginal people were largely confined to the realm of prehistory — portraying them as nameless “Natives” in conflict with settlers, as loyal guides and servants, or as tragic figures labelled “the last of their tribe”.

    Like recent statues commemorating Aboriginal figures such as Pastor Sir Doug and Lady Gladys Nicholls, William Cooper, and William “Bill” Ferguson, this statue brings Aboriginal peoples into the present.

    It is a powerful recognition of their enduring impact in shaping this nation – one that calls for acknowledgement, respect and inclusion from us all.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. A new public statue of Archie Roach and Ruby Hunter shows a bright future for Australian monuments – https://theconversation.com/a-new-public-statue-of-archie-roach-and-ruby-hunter-shows-a-bright-future-for-australian-monuments-249484

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: COP29 countdown: Failure on climate finance ‘not an option’, says Guterres

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    Having just returned from the G20 Summit in Rio, Mr. Guterres shared the resounding message he delivered there: an ambitious climate finance goal is not only essential, but urgent.

    “Failure is not an option,” he emphasized, warning that the result of inaction could be catastrophic.

    Just 24 hours before COP29 is due to wrap up in the Azerbaijan capital, negotiators reportedly remained at loggerheads over a new climate finance goal to help developing countries combat flash flooding, drought, wildfires and other natural shocks made worse by human activity.

    The first draft text on a potential outcome dropped in the early morning hours on Thursday and received mixed reactions from government negotiating teams and civil society groups.

    Largely divided in two parts, the draft reportedly sets out proposals from developing and developed countries, with some sticking points still unresolved, including on funding goals.

    ‘Clock is ticking’

    Emphasizing the urgency of the moment, the Secretary-General said: “The clock is ticking. COP29 is now down to the wire.”

    While progress has been made and areas of convergence are emerging, significant differences still remain, the UN chief continued.

    But without decisive action, the consequences could ripple far beyond this summit, potentially undermining near-term efforts and complicating preparations for COP30 in Brazil, he noted.

    “Failure might jeopardize both near-term action and ambition in the preparation of new national climate action plans,” Mr. Guterres warned, adding that it could accelerate the approach of irreversible climate tipping points.

    A clear path forward

    The Secretary-General underscored the critical need for an ambitious new climate finance goal: a comprehensive financial package designed to mobilize resources for developing countries, enabling them to implement climate action plans aligned with the 1.5-degree Celsius target. 

    He emphasized the importance of financing initiatives that support nations in transitioning to clean, affordable energy while reducing emissions.

    Additionally, he highlighted the necessity of strengthening disaster resilience by securing funds to protect vulnerable populations from the escalating impacts of climate disasters. Restoring trust between nations was also a key focus, with a call to build solidarity through international cooperation under the framework of the Paris Agreement. 

    Mr. Guterres underscored the significance of this agreement as more than a mere negotiation. “This is a COP to deliver justice in the face of climate catastrophe,” he said.

    An investment, not a handout

    Challenging the notion of climate finance as a form of charity, the UN chief argued that it is a critical investment in the planet’s future. “It’s a downpayment on a safer, more prosperous future for every nation on Earth,” he asserted.

    He recalled that multilateral development banks have pledged to increase their climate finance to $120 billion annually by 2030, with an additional $65 billion mobilized from the private sector.

    Meanwhile, the Pact for the Future – adopted in New York this past September by the 193-member UN General Assembly – commits to improving access to finance and increasing the lending capacity of development banks.

    A call for unity

    Recognizing the geopolitical divisions that could undermine progress, the Secretary-General urged leaders and negotiators to “soften hard lines”, navigate their differences and “keep eyes on the bigger picture”.

    Appealing for unity and reminding all parties of what is at stake – a liveable planet for future generations – he stated: “Never forget what is at stake…This is not a zero-sum game.”

    Deliver for all humanity

    Wrapping up his remarks, Mr. Guterres said: “The need is urgent. The rewards are great. And time is short.”

    He emphasized that COP29 must deliver not only for those in the negotiation halls but for all humanity.

    Alongside the Secretary-General’s press conference and the ongoing intense negotiations, discussions at COP29 today also spotlighted the critical importance of gender equality in combating the climate crisis.

    UNFCCC/Kiara Worth

    Participants at the High-Level event on Gender Transparency, a highlight of ‘Gender Day’ at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan.

    A high-level session on gender and transparency emphasized the necessity of integrating gender considerations into climate policies.

    Women, particularly in low-income and marginalized communities, often bear the brunt of climate-induced disasters due to their roles as primary caregivers and food providers.

    Meanwhile, in many regions, their limited access to resources, education, and decision-making power further deepens their vulnerability. Women frequently shoulder the burden of securing water, food, and fuel for their families, often at great personal risk.

    By ensuring that women have equal access to resources, education, and opportunities to participate in climate solutions, more effective and sustainable strategies can be created for mitigating and adapting to the effects of our rapidly warming planet.

    UN News/Nargiz Shekinskaya

    Jemimah Njuki, Chief of the Economic Empowerment section at UN Women, speaks to UN News at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan.

    ‘200 million hours fetching water’

    “Women and girls in sub-Saharan Africa are spending 200 million hours [daily] just fetching water,” said Jemimah Njuki, Chief of Economic Empowerment and Head of the Economics Division at UN Women, in an interview with UN News.

    “To put this into context, this is equivalent to the entire workforce of the UK’s working hours per day.”

    Ms. Njuki said women and girls are more likely to face food insecurity as a result of climate change.

    “Our analysis already shows us that in the worst climate case scenario, 236 million more women and girls will become food insecure, and 158 million more women and girls will fall into poverty,” she warned, ad added: “We also see climate change significantly increasing the unpaid care work performed by women and girls.”

    While noting that there has been significant progress on girls’ education, reducing maternal mortality, and reducing child mortality, she underscored that at the same time, “we are seeing huge pushbacks against women’s rights.”

    With all this in mind, Ms. Njuki stressed the vital importance of the outcome of COP29 for gender equality.

    “As people working on gender equality, we are concerned not just about the quantity of climate finance but also about its quality,” she said.

    She posed a few questions that negotiators could consider: “How do we make the financing more gender-responsive? How do we ensure that we are directing funds toward issues of gender equality? How do we ensure that feminist movements, indigenous movements, and the women working on climate action can actually access this finance?”

    Courtesy of Dr. Jessica Hernande

    Dr. Jessica Hernandez (Binnizá & Maya Ch’orti’) is an Indigenous scholar, scientist, and community advocate based in the Pacific Northwest.

    Indigenous women and land rights

    UN News also spoke with Jessica Hernandez, an indigenous scholar, scientist, and community advocate based in the Pacific Northwest. In her current role at Landesa, a non-profit organization, she advocates for indigenous peoples’ land rights and tenure in the Global South.

    “One of our goals for COP29 is to advocate for the inclusion of land rights and tenure into the nationally determined contributions (NDCs),” she said.

    “We know that 2.5 billion people in rural and indigenous communities worldwide already safeguard these ecosystems, especially land ecosystems crucial for human survival.”

    Ms. Hernandez, recognized by Forbes magazine as one of the 100 most powerful and influential women in Central America, highlighted the critical role of indigenous women in sustainable land and resource management and food security.

    “Unfortunately, only a minority of this land is legally recognized, leaving these communities vulnerable to exploitative land grabs and without the foundations needed for long-term planning and access to government services,” she added.

    Carolina Santos from Engajamundo, a youth-led civil society organization in Brazil, told UN News, “I would like to see more women and girls taking leadership roles in discussions about land rights and access to climate financing, as their bodies are also on the line when it comes to the climate crisis.”

    Want to know more? Check out our special events page, where you can find all our coverage of COP29, including stories and videos, explainers and our newsletter.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: COP29 gets boost from Rio as G20 leaders back scaling up climate finance from ‘billions to trillions’

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    Climate and Environment

    The high-level diplomatic push for climate action shifted southward on Tuesday as G20 leaders meeting in Rio sent a clear signal to negotiating teams at stalled UN climate talks in Baku on the need to rapidly and substantially ‘scale up climate finance from billions to trillions from all sources.’

    While the statement from the world’s leading economies – and biggest emitters – stopped short of explicit reference of ‘transitioning away from fossil fuels’, to which all nations agreed last year at COP28 in Dubai, the G20 leaders did ‘welcome the balanced, ambitious outcome’ of those talks.

    The G20 communiqué comes as the clock ticks down on COP29, which is set to wrap up this Friday in the Azerbaijan capital, Baku. The complex negotiations on new and significantly scaled-up funding for loss and damage and accelerated clean energy goals are moving slowly, as some countries dig into their positions while waiting for others to pull back from their own. 

    UN climate chief Simon Stiell who earlier warned against brinkmanship and what he called ‘you-first-ism’, said today that G20 leaders sent a clear message to their negotiators at COP29: “A successful new finance goal… is in every country’s clear interests.” 

    “Leaders of the world’s largest economies have also committed to driving forward financial reforms to put strong climate action within all countries’ reach,” said Mr. Stiell, who is the Executive Secretary of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), which convenes that annual COP meetings.

    He added: “This is an essential signal in a world plagued by debt crises and spiraling climate impacts, which are wrecking lives, disrupting supply chains, and fueling inflation in every economy.”

    ‘Failure is not an option’

    UN Secretary-General António Guterres, who is in Rio to participate in discussions on sustainable development the combat against poverty and hunger, as well as climate change, noted during a session earlier this morning that Brazil is set to host COP30 next year in the eastern Amazon region.

    “Failure [in Baku] is not an option. It might compromise the ambition in the preparation of the new national climate action plans, with potential devastating impacts as irreversible tipping points are getting closer. The preservation of the Amazon is a case in point,” he said.

    Missing the opportunity to reach agreement on a new climate finance deal in Baku “would inevitably also make the success of COP30 in Brazil much more difficult,” the Secretary-General said, and added: “I appeal to the sense of responsibility of all the countries around this table to help ensure that COP29 will be a success.” 

    Some climate and environment activists in Baku said they were cautiously optimistic about the communique, while others gave it a mixed verdict, saying the statement was vague on climate finance and failed to explicitly mention the need to transition away from fossil fuels.

    Harjeet Singh, a climate activist who is the Global Engagement Director for the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty Initiative, shared his views with UN News: “Developed nations remain unmoved, failing to quantify the trillions needed or to ensure these funds are provided as grants – essential for achieving climate justice.”

    He added: “Their rehashed rhetoric offers no solace for the fraught COP29 negotiations, where we continue to see a deadlock on climate finance.”

    Agrifood solutions

    Alongside the negotiations, dozens of meetings and events are underway COP29, with the bulk of today’s activities focused on agriculture, food security and water. Delegations from around world shared experiences on sustainable food production practices and addressed agriculture-related challenges.

    Just in time for COP29, new analysis from the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has found that nearly all countries identify agrifood systems as a priority for climate change adaptation (94 per cent) and mitigation (91 per cent) in their nationally determined contributions (NDCs).

    According to the FAO, this highlights the tremendous potential of agrifood systems as climate solutions, especially as countries prepare to submit their third round of NDCs in 2025.

    “Agrifood systems are key to achieving food security and hold the solutions to multiple challenges: climate change, biodiversity, land degradation, and water scarcity,” FAO Assistant Director-General Viorel Gutu said, as climate change is a significant driver of food insecurity in a world where around 730 million people still live in hunger.

    He noted, “Unfortunately, current financing and investment are not sufficient to affect the transformation we need.” He added that, over the past two decades, funding for agrifood systems has declined from 37 per cent to 23 per cent of all climate-related development finance.

    While agriculture contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, if done right, the industry can also help overcome the climate crisis.

    Also spotlighting the importance of agriculture – for climate action and broader sustainable development efforts – was Jemimah Njuki, Chief of Economic Empowerment and Head of the Economics Division at UN Women

    In an interview with UN News, she called on governments to provide special support to women-led farms.

    “Without women, we will not be able to feed the world,” Ms. Njuki stressed. At the same time, she lamented that women are less likely than men to own the land they cultivate, and it is more difficult for them to secure loans to develop their businesses.

    It is not only women who are affected but also other vulnerable groups, such as Indigenous peoples.

    Andrea Echiverri of the Global Forest Coalition, an international nongovernmental organization advocating for social and gender justice for rural communities, said that she believes current agricultural practices are destructive to the environment.

    “Take livestock, for example, which requires more and more pasture, meaning forests continue to be cut down, and Indigenous peoples are being expelled from their lands,” Ms. Echiverri said.

    Governments, she emphasized, do not pay enough attention to the sustainability of livestock farming, although this industry accounts for about 16 per cent of all greenhouse gas emissions and 15 per cent of all fossil fuels consumed.

    UN News

    View of Azerbaijan’s capital Baku from the Caspian Sea

    Action on Water

    Elsewhere in the giant Baku Stadium complex where COP29 has been running since last Monday, water-related challenges were in the spotlight at a panel discussion where experts and participants stressed that floods, droughts, shrinking water sources, and rising water levels threaten the well-being of populations, provoke forced displacement, and undermine food security.

    For example, in countries such as Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, glaciers are shrinking rapidly, threatening long-term water supplies.

    “The climate knows no borders, and water knows no borders,” emphasized Sonja Koppel, Secretary of the UN Water Convention. “At the same time, water can be both the cause of conflict and the key to its resolution.”

    Speaking to UN News, she noted that 153 countries share water bodies with other nations, but only 28 per cent of them have agreements with their neighbors to cooperate most of their shared water resources. One successful example is the Central Asian countries, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, which have overcome differences and established cross-border cooperation on the Chu Talas River.

    Ms. Koppel called on countries to use water resources to establish peace with their neighbors and effectively manage shared natural resources.

    Formally the Convention on the Protection and Use of Transboundary Watercourses and International Lakes, the treaty is a unique international legal instrument and intergovernmental platform which aims to ensure the sustainable use of transboundary water resources by facilitating cooperation. Initially negotiated as a regional instrument, it has been opened for accession to all UN Member States in 2016.

    Want to know more? Check out our special events page, where you can find all our coverage of COP29, including stories and videos, explainers and our newsletter.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Baku talks heat up: New climate finance deal, urban challenges in COP29 spotlight

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    Climate and Environment

    As intense round-the-clock COP29 climate talks enter their final stretch in Baku, delegates on Wednesday are eagerly awaiting updates on the progress of negotiations regarding a new climate finance target. Meanwhile, high-level discussions also continued, with a focus on key issues such as urbanization, transport, and tourism.

    The source of the hundreds of billions, if not trillions, of funds that developing nations say will be needed to adapt to a fast-changing climate – governments, multilateral banks, or the private sector – has become a major subject of contention during the last eight days.

    The good, the bad about cities

    Meanwhile, away from the COP29 negotiations, the urgent need to cut emissions, adapt to a changing climate, lessen the effects of the crisis, and shield people from catastrophic weather events are among the themes in the many speeches given by government officials, heads of UN organizations, climate experts and leaders of civil society.

    Home to half the world’s population, with some 2.4 billion more expected to move to urban areas within the next 20 years, cities contribute significantly to global emissions while also being disproportionately impacted the effects of climate change.

    In its latest World Cities report, UN-Habitat, the UN agency dealing with human settlements and sustainable urban development, says billions of people currently living in cities could experience an additional temperature rise of at least 0.5 degrees Celsius by 2040.

    At the same time, measures to offset the impact of climate change on urban populations still do not match the scale and intensity of the challenges faced by cities.

    Addressing a ministerial meeting at COP29 today, Anaclaudia Rossbach, the Executive Director of UN-Habitat, warned that rapid and unplanned urban development pose threats to biodiversity, the environment, and food security.

    This also leads to social fragmentation and financial deterioration. While the construction sector accounts for 40 per cent of greenhouse gas emissions, the UN-Habitat chief said 96 homes need to be built every day to meet the targets of the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.

    As such adequate funding and cooperation at all levels are necessary to address these twin challenges.

    “There is only one road to pursue, one track, one we walk collectively where social, urban, and climate needs are addressed harmoniously over solid economic ground,” Ms. Rossbach stressed.

    She added: “Yes, we do need more finance flowing to cities. We need to plan and prioritize. Land is scarce and needs to fulfill its social and ecological functions. Social and housing needs are vast.”

    “We take care of people; people take care of the planet. And we should leave no one behind,” she concluded.

    UNFCCC/Kiara Worth

    Anacláudia Rossbach, Executive Director of UN-Habitat, addresses a Ministerial meeting on urbanization and climate change, at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan.

    Emissions rising

    In a separate session today, speakers noted an ongoing issue that could seriously hamper many efforts to address climate-driven impacts in cities, and elsewhere.

    According to the latest report from the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), global emissions increased by 1.3 per cent in 2023 – when they should have decreased.

    “To limit warming to 1.5°C, updated National Contributions – climate commitments that each country makes – should enable a 42 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and 57 per cent by 2035,” said UNEP Executive Director Inger Andersen.

    She highlighted that 52 per cent of all greenhouse gas emissions come from just 25 megacities, including, among others, Shanghai, Beijing, Tokyo, Moscow, and New York City.

    “This means the actions you take in setting standards for energy efficiency, determining energy sources, managing waste and methane emissions, improving public transport, encouraging electric mobility, and promoting pedestrian-friendly cities can make a massive impact,” she told mayors from around the world gathered at the event.

    Tourism and climate change

    For the first time ever the issue of tourism is being discussed at a COP, formally the Conference of Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCC) in the context of its impact on climate.

    In 2023, the tourism sector recovered from the doldrums of the COVID-19 pandemic, as international arrivals rebounded to almost 90 per cent of pre-pandemic levels. That year, the sector contributed three per cent to the global gross domestic product (GDP), amounting to $3.3 trillion, and employed one in every ten people worldwide.

    In an interview with UNifeed, Ms. Andersen reiterated her call on stakeholders at COP29 to make sure tourism industry lessens its carbon footprint.

    “We need to understand that the tourism sector is impacted by climate change. And so, it is both a victim of and a contributor to climate change. That is why having this first tourism focus at a COP is very important.”

    Renewable energy transition

    Meanwhile, Selwyn Hart, Special Adviser to the UN Secretary-General on Climate Action, reminded attendees at COP29 that humanity already has the knowledge and tools needed to effectively combat climate change.

    “A revolution in the transition to renewable energy is already underway. It cannot be stopped,” he said.

    “However, the question remains whether the speed of this transition will prevent its worst consequences. And secondly, whether it will be fair enough to reduce inequality within and between countries.”

    UNFCCC/Kiara Worth

    Negotiating teams at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, pictured here during a break in the talks, are working to reach agreement on a new climate financing deal.

    Will a breakthrough at COP29 be possible?

    The results of the negotiations in Baku will provide answers to some of these questions.

    The focus of the Baku talks is on agreeing a new climate finance goal that will provide countries – especially the most vulnerable – with the means to take stronger climate action. At stake are trillions of dollars that developing countries need to mitigate the effects of climate change and adapt to rapidly changing conditions.

    According to UNEP, Cedric Schuster, chair of the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS), stated yesterday that the “top-level priority is minimum allocation floors for small island developing States of $39 billion a year, and $220 billion a year for least developed countries, both in grant-equivalent terms. Any [outcome] texts that do not include these aspects will not be acceptable for these groups.”

    Sierra Leone’s Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Jiwoh Abdulai, emphasized the concern many developing countries share, namely, the form this money should take.

    “Don’t use the word ‘donor,’” he said on Tuesday. “That implies charity. There is a climate debt that needs to be paid. We are talking about lives and livelihoods. Our people are paying with their lives.”

    Discussions also touched on the very definition of a ‘developing country.’ Some negotiators have argued that countries like China or certain Gulf states no longer fall into this category, given the growth of their economies since the adoption of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change in 1992.

    Cecilia Kinuthia-Njenga, Director of the Division of Intergovernmental Support and Collective Progress of the UNFCCC, noted that every delegation comes to COP29 with its aspirations and hopes.

    “In multilateralism, the results are sometimes different from what any one country imagines. This underscores the importance of flexibility, cooperation, and the willingness to adapt to changing circumstances and international relations,” she said.

    Want to know more? Check out our special events page, where you can find all our coverage of COP29, including stories and videos, explainers and our newsletter.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Surveys

    Source: Privacy Commissioner

    2024 biennial survey on privacyMedia release:  Digital revolution drives concerns for New Zealanders: UMR survey results.

    APPA Privacy Awareness Week 2011 social media survey

    View the English language survey results and the English language redacted comments of the survey from the Asia Pacific Privacy Authorities social media survey.

    View the Spanish language survey results.

    View the Chinese language survey results.

    View the Korean language survey results.

    International Disclosures and Overseas Information and Communication Technologies Survey

    Results in this survey showed that a large number of respondents that send information overseas do not check the overseas organisations’ use and management of the information.

    The issue of ‘cloud computing’ clearly has major benefits for businesses and government agencies but it also carries some risks.

    This survey has found that both the private and public sectors need guidance in this area. While most of the organisations have controls to protect the security of personal information in transit, some have no control over what happens once the information is sent overseas or don’t know if they have controls.

    Media release.

    View the full report.

    May 2011.

    Privacy survey 2010

    Results in this report are based upon questions asked in the UMR Research nation-wide omnibus survey. This is a telephone survey of a nationally representative sample of 750 New Zealanders 18 years of age and over.

    Fieldwork was conducted from 18th to 23rd March 2010 at UMR Research’s national interview facility in Auckland.

    Media release

    View the 26 page report.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President Lai meets Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla of the Kingdom of Eswatini

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    Details
    2025-02-08
    Presidential Office thanks US and Japan for joint leaders’ statement
    On February 7 (US EST), President Donald Trump of the United States and Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru of Japan issued a joint leaders’ statement reiterating “the importance of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait as an indispensable element of security and prosperity for the international community.” In the statement, the two leaders also “encouraged the peaceful resolution of cross-strait issues, and opposed any attempts to unilaterally change the status quo by force or coercion” and “expressed support for Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organizations.” Presidential Office Spokesperson Karen Kuo (郭雅慧) on February 8 expressed sincere gratitude on behalf of the Presidential Office to the leaders of both countries for taking concrete action to demonstrate their firm support for peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and for Taiwan’s international participation. Spokesperson Kuo pointed out that there is already a strong international consensus on the importance of peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. The spokesperson emphasized that Taiwan, as a responsible member of the international community, is capable and willing to work together with the international community and will continue strengthening its self-defense capabilities as it deepens its trilateral security partnership with the US and Japan and works alongside like-minded countries to uphold the rules-based international order. The spokesperson said that Taiwan will work toward ensuring a free and open Taiwan Strait and Indo-Pacific region, as well as global peace, stability, and prosperity, as it continues to act as a force for good in the world.

    Details
    2025-02-08
    President Lai’s response to Pope Francis’s 2025 World Day of Peace message  
    President Lai Ching-te recently sent a letter to Pope Francis of the Catholic Church in response to his message marking the 58th World Day of Peace. The following is the full text of the president’s letter to the pope: Your Holiness, In your message for the 2025 World Day of Peace entitled Forgive us our trespasses: grant us your peace, you called for a cultural change that would bring an end to the governance of interpersonal and international relations by a logic of exploitation and oppression and herald true and lasting peace. I wholeheartedly admire and identify with your point of view. Since transitioning from a medical career to politics, I have remained true to my original intentions in the sense that, while a doctor can help only one person at a time, a public servant can simultaneously assist many people in resolving the difficulties affecting their lives. In my inaugural address in May 2024, I pledged that every day of my term, I would strive to act justly, show mercy, and be humble, which accord with the teachings of the Bible. I promised to treat the Taiwanese people as family and prove myself worthy of their trust and expectations. With an unwavering heart, I have accepted the people’s trust and taken on the solemn responsibility of leading the nation forward and building a democratic, peaceful, and prosperous new Taiwan. In this new year, the changing international landscape continues to present many grave challenges to democratic nations around the world. As the Russia-Ukraine war persists, the steady convergence of authoritarian regimes, including China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran, threatens the rules-based international order and severely impacts peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific and the world at large. Your Holiness has stated that war is a defeat for everyone. I, too, firmly believe that peace is priceless and that war has no winners. A high level of consensus has formed in the international community on upholding peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. The Taiwanese people also maintain an unyielding commitment to safeguarding a way of life that encompasses freedom, equality, democracy, and human rights. Taiwan will continue to spare no effort in preserving regional peace and stability and serving as a pilot for global peace. In your World Day of Peace message, you urged prosperous countries to assist poorer ones. This compassion is truly touching. Taiwan is proactively implementing values-based diplomacy and, under the Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project, enhancing allies’ development through a range of initiatives. Over many years, Taiwan has accumulated abundant and unique experience of providing foreign assistance. Seeking to foster self-reliance among disadvantaged countries, we have extended genuine support to help alleviate poverty through such avenues as strengthening basic infrastructure, transferring technology, and cultivating talent. In your message, you reminded countries worldwide that assistance should not be merely an isolated act of charity and pointed to the need to devise a new global financial framework so that food crises, climate change, and other challenges could be jointly addressed. I hold this view in high regard. I therefore earnestly hope that international organizations will stop excluding Taiwan for political reasons. Taiwan is willing to shoulder its international responsibilities so that it can contribute and share its valuable experience through many global platforms.  On behalf of the government and people of the Republic of China (Taiwan), I again express our interest in collaborating with the Holy See to advance world peace through concrete action. We also aspire to demonstrate Taiwanese values and the Taiwanese spirit and work together with the Holy See to uphold the core values of justice, democracy, freedom, and peace.  Please accept, Your Holiness, the renewed assurances of my highest consideration, as well as my best wishes for your good health and the continued growth of the Catholic Church.

    Details
    2025-02-08
    President Lai meets former US Vice President Mike Pence
    On the afternoon of January 17, President Lai Ching-te met with former Vice President of the United States Mike Pence. In remarks, President Lai thanked former Vice President Pence for his contributions to the deepening of Taiwan-US relations, noting that he actively helped to strengthen Taiwan-US cooperation and facilitate the normalization of military sales to Taiwan, and did his utmost to deepen the Taiwan-US economic partnership. The president indicated that former Vice President Pence also spoke up for Taiwan on numerous occasions at international venues, backing Taiwan’s international participation. President Lai expressed hope for a stronger Taiwan-US partnership to maintain peace and stability throughout the world, and that the two sides can advance bilateral exchanges in such areas as the economy, trade, and industry. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I am delighted to welcome former Vice President Pence and Mrs. Karen Pence to the Presidential Office. Former Vice President Pence is not only an outstanding political leader in the US, but also a staunch supporter of Taiwan on the international stage. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I would like to take this opportunity to extend our deepest gratitude to former Vice President Pence for his contributions to the deepening of Taiwan-US relations. Thanks to former Vice President Pence’s strong backing, ties between Taiwan and the US rose to unprecedented heights during President Donald Trump’s first administration. Former Vice President Pence actively helped to strengthen Taiwan-US security cooperation and facilitate the normalization of military sales to Taiwan, helping Taiwan reinforce its self-defense capabilities. He also did his utmost to deepen the Taiwan-US economic partnership. Former Vice President Pence also paid close attention to the military threats and diplomatic isolation faced by Taiwan. He spoke up for Taiwan on numerous occasions at international venues, taking concrete action to back Taiwan’s international participation. We were truly grateful for this. As we speak, China’s political and military intimidation against Taiwan persist. China and other authoritarian regimes, such as Russia, North Korea, and Iran, are continuing to converge and present serious challenges to democracies around the globe. At this moment, free and democratic nations must come together to bolster cooperation. I believe that a stronger Taiwan-US partnership can be an even more powerful force in maintaining peace and stability throughout the world. Former Vice President Pence has previously supported the signing of a trade agreement between Taiwan and the US. Taiwan looks forward to continuing to work with the new US administration and Congress to advance bilateral exchanges in such areas as the economy, trade, and industry. This is the first time that former Vice President Pence and Mrs. Pence are visiting Taiwan, and their visit is significantly meaningful for Taiwan-US exchanges. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I want to extend a warm welcome. Moving forward, I hope we will jointly realize even more fruitful achievements through Taiwan-US cooperation. Former Vice President Pence then delivered remarks, thanking President Lai for his hospitality on his and his wife’s first visit to Taiwan, saying that it is an honor to be here to reaffirm the bonds of friendship between the people of America and the people of Taiwan, which are strong and longstanding. The former vice president indicated that the American people admire the people of Taiwan and all that has been accomplished in a few short decades for Taiwan to rise to one of the world’s preeminent economic powers and free societies. He said that he is grateful for President Lai’s courageous and bold leadership of Taiwan, and grateful to be able to express the support of the overwhelming majority of the American people for this alliance. Former Vice President Pence indicated that the values shared by Taiwan and the US, including freedom, the rule of law, and respect for human rights, bind us together in a partnership that transcends geographic boundaries and cultures. He then assured President Lai that China’s increasingly aggressive posture in the Taiwan Strait and across the Indo-Pacific, for the values and interests that both sides share, is deeply concerning to the American people. Former Vice President Pence stated that America is a Pacific nation, and is committed to the status quo, adding that they recognize it is China that wants to change the status quo that America, Taiwan, and other allies in the region want to preserve, which has created an environment of extraordinary growth and prosperity. The former vice president concluded by once again thanking President Lai and his team for their gracious hospitality and conveying best wishes to him and the people of Taiwan. Former Vice President Pence then assured President Lai that just as Taiwan will never surrender its freedom, he will continue to be a voice for a strong US-Taiwan relationship in the defense and the benefit of Taiwan, the US, and the free world. Later that day, Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao hosted a banquet for former Vice President Pence and his delegation at Taipei Guest House to thank him for his longstanding friendship and staunch support for Taiwan-US ties.  

    Details
    2025-02-08
    President Lai meets delegation to 60th Inaugural Ceremonies of US president and vice president
    On the morning of January 16, President Lai Ching-te met with Taiwan’s delegation to the 60th Inaugural Ceremonies of the President and Vice President of the United States. In remarks, President Lai stated that democratic Taiwan stands united, working hard to deepen Taiwan-US ties together. He then entrusted the delegation with three missions: to convey best wishes from the people of Taiwan, convey our firm commitment to democracy, and help Taiwan-US relations reach a new milestone. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: The 60th Inaugural Ceremonies of the President and Vice President of the US will be held on January 20. I want to thank Speaker Han Kuo-yu (韓國瑜), president of the Legislative Yuan, for accepting my invitation to lead our nation’s representative delegation to the event. I also thank Legislative Yuan Members Ko Chih-en (柯志恩), Wang Ting-yu (王定宇), Ko Ju-chun (葛如鈞), Lee Yen-hsiu (李彥秀), Chen Kuan-ting (陳冠廷), Kuo Yu-ching (郭昱晴), and Chen Gau-tzu (陳昭姿) for joining this visit to the US to attend the inauguration of President Donald Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance. We have gathered together today despite differences in party affiliation because in democratic Taiwan, while parties may compete domestically, when it comes to engagement externally, they stand united and share responsibility, working hard to deepen Taiwan-US ties and strive for the best interests of the nation. We share the value of defending freedom and democracy, and we share the goal of advancing peace and prosperity. Today, we engage with the world together as those from the same country – the Republic of China (Taiwan). In this complex and volatile new international landscape, and as the nation faces difficulties and challenges, I want to stress that in Formosa, there is no hostility that cannot be let go, and no hardship that cannot be overcome. Unity is the most important, and I hope that Taiwan can stand united, because there is true strength in unity. Democratic Taiwan must stand united in engaging with the world and initiate exchanges with confidence. On that ground, I am entrusting this delegation with three key missions. First, convey best wishes from the people of Taiwan. Just last year, Taiwan and the US celebrated the 45th anniversary of the passage of the Taiwan Relations Act. And on May 20, the US sent a senior bipartisan delegation to congratulate me and Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao on our inauguration. As the leader of this cross-party delegation, Speaker Han must clearly convey the well-wishes of the people of Taiwan, congratulate President Trump and Vice President Vance on their inauguration, and wish success to the new administration and prosperity to the US. Second, clearly convey the firm commitment of the people of Taiwan to democracy. The theme of these inaugural ceremonies is “Our Enduring Democracy: A Constitutional Promise.” Taiwan and the US share the universal value of democracy and are staunch allies. I hope that the delegation can faithfully convey the firm commitment to democracy that the people of Taiwan have, which will not change even in the face of authoritarian threats. Taiwan is willing to stand side by side with the US and other members of the democratic community to defend the sustainable development of global democracy and prevent the expansion of authoritarianism. Third, help Taiwan-US relations reach a new milestone. In recent years, Taiwan-US relations have continued to grow, with the first agreement under the Taiwan-US Initiative on 21st Century Trade having formally taken effect last month. This morning, the House of Representatives also passed the US-Taiwan Expedited Double-Tax Relief Act. I hope that the delegation can help Taiwan-US relations reach a new milestone through these exchanges so that our relations continue to grow, our cooperation expands even more, and so that we can achieve even greater success after the new administration takes office. Four years ago, Taiwan’s representative to the US inaugural ceremonies was Vice President Hsiao, who was then our representative to the US. Everyone has a lot to learn from her. I have specially invited everyone here to converse so that you can draw from Vice President Hsiao’s experience and ensure an even smoother visit. Washington, DC was also hit by a rare blizzard recently, and the weather has been very cold, so make sure to stay warm. I am sending everyone off with hand warmers and thermoses so that you can bring some warmth from Taiwan with you on your journey. And I ask that Speaker Han exercise his wisdom to help generate some warmth between the ruling and opposition parties through cooperation, which they can then bring back to Taiwan. Let us unite to give our all for diplomacy so that we can unite to give our all for Taiwan. I wish the delegation a smooth and safe trip, and hope your missions can be carried out successfully. Speaker Han then delivered remarks, stating that it was an honor to be invited by President Lai to organize a delegation to represent our nation at the 60th Inaugural Ceremonies of the President and Vice President of the US in Washington, DC, and express the Republic of China’s sincere and cordial best wishes. The Legislative Yuan’s president has assumed this important task numerous times in the past, he said, not only to represent the government of the Republic of China, but also to take on the mission of conveying the voices of 23 million people. He went on to say that he is honored to take up the baton, lead eight legislators to the US to attend this celebration that will attract global attention, and express sincere best wishes to newly elected President Trump, Vice President Vance, and the new administration’s team. As enjoined by President Lai, he hopes the delegation’s trip will help open a new chapter in Taiwan-US exchanges. Speaker Han stated that the US is the most free and democratic country in the world. He noted that in 1776 in the US Declaration of Independence, founding father Thomas Jefferson propounded the concept of “unalienable rights,” and emphasized that the people have a right to freedom and the pursuit of happiness, democratic ideas that have long been rooted in the people’s hearts. Today, he said, democracy is also embedded in the DNA of Taiwan’s 23 million people, and this hard-won democratic achievement is a result of the concerted efforts of our pioneering predecessors, thinkers, and activists over the past 100 years. Speaker Han stated that during this visit, the Legislative Yuan delegation hopes to convey the voice of Taiwan as a democratic country. Taiwan’s security, he said, is like the four legs of a table: The first leg is defending the Republic of China, the second is defending freedom and democracy, the third is maintaining Taiwan-US relations, and the fourth is maintaining cross-strait peace. The delegation will travel to the US amidst severe cold weather to show that we value our relationship with the US, and our citizens have great hopes and expectations. Speaker Han stated that this will be a cross-party delegation of eight legislators, all of whom have a strong sense of mission. He hopes that all democratic nations will acknowledge Taiwan’s importance, and pay attention to Taiwan’s 23 million people. The delegation, he said, will do its utmost to convey the goodwill and warmth that the people of Taiwan give to each and every one of our good friends.

    Details
    2025-02-08
    President Lai confers decoration on former Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis
    On the morning of January 14, President Lai Ching-te conferred the Order of Brilliant Star with Special Grand Cordon upon former Minister of Foreign Affairs Gabrielius Landsbergis of the Republic of Lithuania in recognition of his remarkable contributions to deepening Taiwan-Lithuania relations. In remarks, President Lai thanked former Minister Landsbergis for standing firmly with Taiwan and remaining a staunch defender of democratic values, yielding fruitful cooperative results. The president expressed hope that the two countries will engage in even more cooperation and exchanges in such areas as the economy, trade, technology, and culture, and continue to advocate for the values of freedom and democracy so that together we can contribute even more to our nations’ development and to peace and prosperity throughout the world. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: Today, by conferring the Order of Brilliant Star with Special Grand Cordon upon former Minister Landsbergis, we recognize his outstanding contributions during his time as foreign minister of Lithuania. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I thank him for the key role he has played in deepening Taiwan-Lithuania relations. During the COVID-19 pandemic, thanks to the efforts of former Minister Landsbergis, Lithuania was the first European nation to donate vaccines to Taiwan. On that occasion, he stated that “freedom-loving people should look out for each other.” His statement was very moving and left a deep impression on many Taiwanese people. We will never forget it. Former Minister Landsbergis has continued to express the spirit of those words through his concrete actions. With his staunch support, Taiwan and Lithuania have mutually established representative offices. Moreover, our representative office in Lithuania was the first in Europe to incorporate “Taiwan” in its name. As for bilateral cooperation, Taiwan and Lithuania have seen fruitful results in such fields as semiconductors, laser technology, finance, and medicine. Be it overcoming the challenges posed by the pandemic or resisting expanding authoritarianism, former Minister Landsbergis has stood firmly with Taiwan and remained a staunch defender of democratic values. We greatly admire and appreciate his spirit. Today, authoritarian regimes continue to converge, posing threats and challenges to democracies around the world. Taiwan, Lithuania, and other democratic countries must come closer together, drawing on the strength of unity, so as to jointly safeguard freedom and democracy and uphold the rules-based international order. Looking ahead, we hope that Taiwan and Lithuania will engage in even more cooperation and exchanges in such areas as the economy, trade, technology, and culture. Let us continue to advocate for the values of freedom and democracy. Together, we can contribute even more to our nations’ development and to peace and prosperity throughout the world. In closing, I once again thank you, former Minister Landsbergis, for your support and for all that you have done for Taiwan. We welcome you and your wife to visit often. I wish you both a smooth and successful visit in Taiwan, and hope you leave with lasting memories.    Former Minister Landsbergis then delivered remarks, saying that it is a great honor to receive the decoration today. He noted that only partially can he accept the honor, as there have been many people who worked together with him in the ministry and in the whole country who support the people of Taiwan and see the benefit of supporting democracy in Taiwan. He often says that in Lithuania they remember well the fight for their freedom, and just today, he mentioned, he was shown the permanent exhibition in the Presidential Office, where he saw similar pictures of Taiwanese people fighting for democracy. He emphasized that not even one generation has passed since these events took place here in Taipei or similar events took place in Vilnius. Former Minister Landsbergis said that decision-makers in the Lithuanian government are either people who were themselves fighting for freedom, or, as in his case, those who were sitting on the shoulders of parents who were fighting for freedom. So for them, he underlined, freedom, democracy, liberty, and sovereignty are very real concepts that they cherish, not just things read about in a history book. He said that this is the main connector between Lithuania and Taiwan, a feeling of freedom and support for each other. Former Minister Landsbergis stated that in the face of authoritarians who do not wish us prosperity, who do not wish us freedom and future achievements, what he expects from the future is that the friendship, collaboration, and mutual support between Lithuania and Taiwan will inspire others to join in. This, he said, will make other countries not be afraid to support freedom and democracy, and will allow our group of friends to continue to grow. Lithuanian history, the former minister said, is difficult, and a big part of it was fighting for their freedom. He explained that during the 19th century when Lithuania was part of Russia’s empire, they had several revolutions and uprisings with the aim of becoming free, and that they were fighting for that freedom alongside Poland and Belarus. He then applied a phrase that they used in the revolution of 1864 – “for your freedom and ours,” meaning that they will continue to fight for their freedom while helping Taiwan fight for ours. Also in attendance at the ceremony were former Minister Landsbergis’ wife Dr. Austėja Landsbergienė and Lithuanian Representative to Taiwan Paulius Lukauskas.

    Details
    2025-01-01
    President Lai delivers 2025 New Year’s Address
    On the morning of January 1, President Lai Ching-te delivered his 2025 New Year’s Address, titled “Bolstering National Strength through Democracy to Enter a New Global Landscape,” in the Reception Hall of the Presidential Office. President Lai stated that today’s Taiwan is receiving international recognition for its performance in many areas, among them democracy, technology, and economy. In this new year, he said, Taiwan must be united, and we must continue on the right course. The president expressed hope that everyone in the central and local governments, regardless of party, can work hard together, allowing Taiwan sure footing as it strides forward toward ever greater achievements.  President Lai emphasized that in 2025, we must keep firm on the path of democracy, continue to bolster our national strength, make Taiwan more economically resilient, enhance the resilience of supply chains for global democracies, and continue working toward a Balanced Taiwan and generational justice, ensuring that the fruits of our economic growth can be enjoyed by all our people. The president said that Taiwan will keep going strong, and we will keep walking tall as we enter the new global landscape. A translation of President Lai’s address follows: Today is the first day of 2025. With a new year comes new beginnings. I wish that Taiwan enjoys peace, prosperity, and success, and that our people lead happy lives. Taiwan truly finished 2024 strong. Though there were many challenges, there were also many triumphs. We withstood earthquakes and typhoons, and stood firm in the face of constant challenges posed by authoritarianism. We also shared glory as Taiwan won the Premier12 baseball championship, and now Taiwanese people around the world are all familiar with the gesture for Team Taiwan. At the Paris Olympics, Wang Chi-lin (王齊麟) and Lee Yang (李洋) clinched another gold in men’s doubles badminton. Lin Yu-ting (林郁婷) took home Taiwan’s first Olympic gold in boxing. At the International Junior Science Olympiad, every student in our delegation of six won a gold medal. And Yang Shuang-zi’s (楊双子) novel Taiwan Travelogue, translated into English by King Lin (金翎), became a United States National Book Award winner and a tour de force of Taiwan literature on the international level. Our heroes of Taiwan are defined by neither age nor discipline. They have taken home top prizes at international competitions and set new records. They tell Taiwan’s story through their outstanding performances, letting the world see the spirit and culture of Taiwan, and filling all our citizens with pride. My fellow citizens, we have stood together through thick and thin; we have shared our ups and downs. We have wept together, and we have laughed together. We are all one family, all members of Team Taiwan. I want to thank each of our citizens for their dedication, fueling Taiwan’s progress and bringing our nation glory. You have given Taiwan even greater strength to stand out on the global stage. In this new year, we must continue bringing Taiwan’s stories to the world, and make Taiwan’s successes a force for global progress. In 2025, the world will be entering a new landscape. Last year, over 70 countries held elections, and the will of the people has changed with the times. As many countries turn new pages politically, and in the midst of rapid international developments, Taiwan must continue marching forward with steady strides. First, we must keep firm on the path of democracy. Taiwan made it through a dark age of authoritarianism and has since become a glorious beacon of democracy in Asia. This was achieved through the sacrifices of our democratic forebears and the joint efforts of all our citizens. Democracy’s value to Taiwan lies not just in our free way of life, or in the force driving the diverse and vigorous growth of our society. Democracy is the brand that has earned us international trust in terms of diplomacy. No matter the threat or challenge Taiwan may face, democracy is Taiwan’s only path forward. We will not turn back. Domestic competition among political parties is a part of democracy. But domestic political disputes must be resolved democratically, within the constitutional system. This is the only way democracy can continue to grow. The Executive Yuan has the right to request a reconsideration of the controversial bills passed in the Legislative Yuan, giving it room for reexamination. Constitutional institutions can also lodge a petition for a constitutional interpretation, and through Constitutional Court adjudication, ensure a separation of powers, safeguard constitutional order, and gradually consolidate the constitutional system. The people also have the right of election, recall, initiative, and referendum, and can bring together even greater democratic power to show the true meaning of sovereignty in the hands of the people. In this new year, the changing international landscape will present democratic nations around the world with many grave challenges. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and conflict between Israel and Hamas rage on, and we are seeing the continued convergence of authoritarian regimes including China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran, threatening the rules-based international order and severely affecting peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region and the world at large. Peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait are essential components for global security and prosperity. Taiwan needs to prepare for danger in times of peace. We must continue increasing our national defense budget, bolster our national defense capabilities, and show our determination to protect our country. Everyone has a responsibility to safeguard Taiwan’s democracy and security. We must gather together every bit of strength we have to enhance whole-of-society defense resilience, and build capabilities to respond to major disasters and deter threats or encroachment. We must also strengthen communication with society to combat information and cognitive warfare, so that the populace rejects threats and enticements and jointly guards against malicious infiltration by external forces. Here at home, we must consolidate democracy with democracy. Internationally, we must make friends worldwide through democracy. This is how we will ensure security and peace. The more secure Taiwan, the more secure the world. The more resilient Taiwan, the sounder the defense of global democracy. The global democratic community should work even closer together to support the democratic umbrella as we seek ways to resolve the war in Ukraine and conflict between Israel and Hamas. Together, we must uphold stability in the Taiwan Strait and security in the Indo-Pacific, and achieve our goal of global peace. Second, we must continue to bolster our national strength, make Taiwan more economically resilient, and enhance the resilience of supply chains for global democracies. In the first half of 2024, growth in the Taiwan Stock Index was the highest in the world. Our economic growth rate for the year as a whole is expected to reach 4.2 percent, leading among the Four Asian Tigers. Domestic investment is soaring, having exceeded NT$5 trillion, and inflation is gradually stabilizing. Export orders from January to November totaled US$536.6 billion, up 3.7 percent from the same period in 2023. And compared over the same period, exports saw a 9.9 percent increase, reaching US$431.5 billion. Recent surveys also show that in 2024, the average increase in salaries at companies was higher than that in 2023. Additionally, over 90 percent of companies plan to raise salaries this year, which is an eight-year high. All signs indicate that Taiwan’s economic climate continues to recover, and that our economy is growing steadily. Our overall economic performance is impressive; still, we must continue to pay attention to the impact on Taiwan’s industries from the changing geopolitical landscape, uncertainties in the global economic environment, and dumping by the “red supply chain.”  For a nation, all sectors and professions are equally important; only when all our industries are strong can Taiwan be strong as a nation. Our micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) are the lifeblood of Taiwan, and the development of our various industrial parks has given Taiwan the impetus for our prosperity. We must carry the spirit of “Made in Taiwan” forward, bringing it to ever greater heights. Thus, beyond just developing our high-tech industry, our Executive Yuan has already proposed a solution that will help traditional industries and MSMEs comprehensively adopt technology applications, engage in the digital and net-zero twin transition, and develop channels, all for better operational structures and higher productivity. Taiwan must continue enhancing its economic resilience. In recent years, Taiwan has significantly increased its investments in the US, Japan, Europe, and the New Southbound countries, and such investment has already surpassed investment in China. This indicates that our efforts in diversifying markets and reducing reliance on any single market are working. Moving forward, we must keep providing assistance so that Taiwan industries can expand their global presence and market internationally from a solid base here in Taiwan. At the same time, Taiwan must use democracy to promote economic growth with the rest of the world. We must leverage our strengths in the semiconductor and AI industries. We must link with democratic countries so that we can together enhance the resilience of supply chains for global democracies. And through international cooperation across many sectors, such as UAVs, low-orbit communications satellites, robots, military, security and surveillance, or biopharmaceuticals, renewable energy technology, new agriculture, and the circular economy, we must keep abreast of the latest cutting-edge technology and promote diverse development. This approach will help Taiwan remain a leader in advancing global democratic supply chains, ensuring their security and stability. Third, we must continue working toward a Balanced Taiwan and generational justice, ensuring that the fruits of our economic growth can be enjoyed by all our people. Democracy means the people have the final say. Our nation belongs to all 23 million of us, without regard for ethnic group, generation, political party, or whether we live in urban or rural areas. In this new year, we must continue to pursue policies that promote the well-being of the nation and the people. But to that end, the central government needs adequate financial resources to ensure that it can enact each of these measures. Therefore, I hope that the ruling and opposition parties can each soberly reconsider the amendments to the Act Governing the Allocation of Government Revenues and Expenditures and find a path forward that ensures the lasting peace and stability of our country. For nine consecutive years, the minimum wage has continued to rise. Effective today, the minimum monthly salary is being raised from NT$27,470 to NT$28,590, and the hourly salary from NT$183 to NT$190. We hope by raising the pay for military personnel, civil servants, and educators for two consecutive years, coupled with benefits through wage increases and tax reductions, that private businesses will also raise wages, allowing all our people to enjoy the fruits of our economic growth. I know that everyone wants to pay lower taxes and rent. This year, we will continue to promote tax reductions. For example, unmarried individuals with an annual income of NT$446,000 or less can be exempt from paying income tax. Dual-income families with an annual income of NT$892,000 or less and dual-income families with two children aged six or younger with an annual income of NT$1,461,000 or less are also exempt from paying income tax. Additionally, the number of rent-subsidized housing units will also be increased, from 500,000 to 750,000 units, helping lighten the load for everyone. This year, the age eligibility for claiming Culture Points has been lowered from 16 to 13 years, so that now young people aged between 13 and 22 can receive government support for experiencing more in the arts. Also, our Taiwan Global Pathfinders Initiative is about to take effect, which will help more young people in Taiwan realize their dreams by taking part in education and exchange activities in many places around the world. We are also in the process of establishing a sports ministry to help young athletes achieve their dreams on the field, court, and beyond. The ministry will also be active in developing various sports industries and bringing sports and athletics more into the lives of the people, making our people healthier as a result. This year, as Taiwan becomes a “super-aged society,” we will launch our Long-term Care 3.0 Plan to provide better all-around care for our seniors. And we will expand the scope of cancer screening eligibility and services, all aimed at creating a Healthy Taiwan. In addition, Taiwan will officially begin collecting fees for its carbon fee system today. This brings us closer in line with global practices and helps us along the path to our goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. We will also continue on the path to achieving a Balanced Taiwan. Last month, the Executive Yuan launched the Trillion NT Dollar Investment National Development Plan and its six major regional flagship projects. Both of these initiatives will continue to expand the investment in our public infrastructure and the development of local specialty industries, narrowing urban-rural and wealth gaps so that all our people can live and work in peace and happiness. My fellow citizens, today’s Taiwan is receiving international recognition for its performance in many areas, among them democracy, technology, and economy. This tells us that national development is moving in the right direction. In this new year, Taiwan must be united, and we must continue on the right course. We hope that everyone in the central and local governments, regardless of party, can work hard together to ensure that national policies are successfully implemented, with the people’s well-being as our top priority. This will allow Taiwan sure footing as it strides forward toward ever greater achievements. In this new year, we have many more brilliant stories of Taiwan to share with the world, inspiring all Taiwanese, both here and around the world, to cheer time and again for the glory of Taiwan. Taiwan will keep going strong. And we will keep walking tall as we enter the new global landscape. Thank you.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: India’s Green Hydrogen Review and Perspective

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    As a global leader in renewable energy, India is transitioning from fossil fuel-based hydrogen to green hydrogen, driven by technological advancements, cost reductions, and supportive policies. Initiatives like the National Green Hydrogen Mission and Green Hydrogen Policy aim to establish India as a global hub, targeting an annual production of 5 million metric tons by 2030. The strategy emphasizes investments in indigenous technologies, pilot projects, and infrastructure to boost domestic demand and production. However, significant challenges remain in scaling up green hydrogen production. These include high capital expenditures for electrolyzers, gaps in transportation and storage technologies, and material dependencies. While alkaline electrolysis systems are not expected to face long-term material constraints, they still require substantial quantities of steel, nickel, and copper per megawatt. India’s dependence on imported nickel could disrupt supply chains even for these systems. To address these challenges, collaboration between the government, public enterprises, and the private sector is essential for building a sustainable green hydrogen ecosystem. By 2030, India’s investment in green hydrogen and its ammonia capacity is estimated to reach approximately $34.0 billion, with $9.3 billion (27%) from government-owned enterprises and $24.8 billion (73%) from major private companies, based on their current investment plans. This investment is projected to achieve a green hydrogen and green ammonia capacity of over 10 million metric tons by 2030, doubling the government’s target. While economic analysis shows that green hydrogen projects can be viable in accordance with the Asian Development Bank’s economic analysis guideline, financial analysis underscores the need for financing mechanisms—such as public funding, guaranteed pricing, and operational support—to make projects more competitive and attract investment. In particular, concessional funding will play a key role in mitigating risk and attracting initial investments. Additionally, a unified policy approach must address the development of infrastructure and foster collaboration across multiple stakeholders. Given the scarcity of key raw materials for electrolyzers, such as iridium and platinum, exploring alternative options like anion exchange membrane electrolyzers could be strategically significant for scaling up production. International partnerships for green hydrogen exports will also be important to support expansion on a large scale.

    WORKING PAPER 1491

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Retrospectives, festivals, solo exhibitions. The main projects of the Moscow Museum of Modern Art in 2025

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The Moscow Museum of Modern Art is planning a large-scale program for 2025. Visitors will be presented with retrospectives, personal exhibitions of young artists and research projects, and the museum will also take part in regional festivals. Details are in the mos.ru article.

    “The museum is one of the city’s key venues where Muscovites and visitors to the capital can get acquainted with contemporary art. This year we are implementing more than 40 exhibitions, including a large-scale project dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War,” noted the Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the city Department of Culture

    Alexey Fursin.

    In February, the exhibition “This is the best we have. The Art Newspaper Russia’s choice” opens in the building on Gogolevsky Boulevard (10). It is based on the most striking interviews with artists published in the publication over the past 10 years and collected in the book “The Art Newspaper Russia presents: 25 interviews with contemporary artists. 2014–2024”. The title of the exhibition was inspired by the work of Valery Chtak, one of the authors whose works will be on display. It will bring together artists of different generations — from Ilya Kabakov and Erik Bulatov to Recycle Group — and will demonstrate a wide range of creative approaches, a variety of styles and views represented on the Russian art scene.

    On April 30, an exhibition dedicated to the 80th anniversary of victory in the Great Patriotic War will open in the building on Petrovka. The anniversary project focuses not only on works from the museum’s collection, but also on Russian military memorials and monuments. The exhibition is dedicated to commemorative practices — visual forms of collective cultural memory of the last 30 years. The curators examine striking artistic ensembles, often complex works by groups of authors. One of the central themes of the exhibition is Victory Park on Poklonnaya Gora in Moscow, the ontology of images and themes associated with the Great Patriotic War. Of the diverse works of art from the 20th–21st centuries, those were chosen that reflect the phenomenon of memory not literally, but on a symbolic level. The exhibition also includes works by artists who are war veterans and works created in 1941–1945.

    In the autumn, Petrovka will host the exhibition “Head of a Contemporary. From the Collection of Denis Khimilyayne”, curated by Alexander Dashevsky. The project will unite works of Soviet unofficial art and Russian contemporary art, and will help to understand the principles of selection and the taste of the collector. The exhibition, consisting of 18 sections, will reveal a wide variety of topics – from fear and despair to humor, paradoxes and dreamlike images. The exhibition will feature works by Vadim Sidur, Boris Sveshnikov, Nikita Alekseev, Vladimir Yankilevsky, Khaim Sokol, Vladislav Mamyshev-Monroe, Semyon Faibisovich, Boris Orlov, Francisco Infante-Arana and other masters.

    Personal projects of contemporary artists

    In March, Gogolevsky Boulevard will host an exhibition by Evgenia Tut about human self-awareness, being in a place of power, and sacred encounters. In August, the same place will host an exhibition by Georgy and Irina Totibadze, covering 10 years of their work and displaying both widely known and new works. In the spring, Petrovka will host a series of works by LU (Lyusya Solovieva) created specifically for the Moscow Museum of Modern Art and dedicated to the nuances of human emotions that often remain unexpressed. In the summer, the same place will host an exhibition by Ksenia Dranish, an artist who addresses images of the unconscious through painting, ceramics, installations, and video art. At the end of the year, Gogolevsky Boulevard will host an exhibition by Rostan Tavasiev, “The Hare’s Path to the Stars,” bringing together the author’s key works from the last 20 years, from game motifs to science fiction.

    Also in 2025, solo exhibitions of Elena Surovtseva, Irina Zatulovskaya, Oleg Ivaschenko, Alexandra Mitlyanskaya and other authors will be presented.

    In June, a retrospective exhibition of Boris Messerer will open in the building on Gogolevsky Boulevard. The exposition will allow us to follow the entire creative path of the outstanding painter, graphic artist, and stage designer, who worked in various genres. This project will be one of the key events of the upcoming season for the museum. Viewers will see both Messerer’s early works and his latest series of abstract compositions. For the second time in Moscow, Boris Asafovich’s early paintings from the 1950s and 1960s will be shown.

    Work will continue with the legacy of outstanding authors of the second half of the 20th century. In the fall, the museum will introduce visitors to a retrospective of Yevgeny Gorokhovsky (1951–2021), timed to coincide with the 75th anniversary of his birth. The exhibition will showcase key works from museum collections and private collections, as well as works that have not been exhibited before.

    Research projects

    In 2025, the Moscow Museum of Modern Art will continue to develop its research initiatives. The long-term program “Collection. Viewpoint” offers a new look at works from the museum’s collection. One of the projects will be the exhibition “Love Me as I Love You”, dedicated to the theme of romantic relationships. Object art, video art and photography will be displayed alongside classical painting. In May, the exhibition “In the Closet” will open, where artists will explore the transformation of furniture and familiar and customary forms into artistic ideas through their interpretation. In the summer, the exhibition “Early Graphics by Viktor Umnov and Its Context” will open, focusing on form-building in graphics of the 1960s and revealing the artist’s work in a broader cultural context.

    In the autumn, the EMA Expo 2025 exhibition will open in the museum’s educational centre (17 Ermolaevsky Lane) – a large-scale event dedicated to the themes of sound, technological art and related disciplines.

    Vadim Sidur Museum and Dmitry Nalbandyan Museum-Workshop

    The Vadim Sidur Museum will continue to explore the artist’s personal myth. This year’s projects will unite the image of a symbolic garden and its significance in the culture and work of Vadim Sidur. Viewers will see sculptures, graphic series, archival materials and excerpts from literary works, and will also be able to consider his art in the context of the latest artistic practices. This will open up opportunities for contemporary young artists – the museum plans to exhibit works by Anastasia Rybakova and Alexander Pozin in dialogue with the works of Vadim Sidur.

    The Dmitry Nalbandyan Museum and Studio will continue to rethink the return to the Soviet past through the artist’s personal experience and history, and will display documents and museum items. The young artist Kutka will work on studying Nalbandyan’s personal archive at the invitation of the museum. The project will include a series of photographic works with embroidery, installations and textiles that will draw attention to the connection of times and the memory of generations, and will also allow us to turn to the legacy of Nalbandyan’s family archives from the Soviet period.

    Regional projects and support for young artists

    In the summer, the interdisciplinary festival of contemporary art “Tuzhi-art” will be held for the third time in the land art park “Tuzhi” (Zabaikalsky Krai), in which the museum will take part. One of the goals of the project is to preserve the unique identity of this place and integrate it into the all-Russian cultural context. In 2025, four creative residences will open at the festival.

    The series of regional projects will be continued by the festival of contemporary art “Territory. Irkutsk”, where the Moscow Museum of Modern Art will present an exhibition from its collection. This exhibition will be the second project in Irkutsk within the framework of a joint program with the festival. Among its main objectives are the development of cultural exchange and familiarization of viewers with one of the largest collections of Russian art of the 20th and 21st centuries.

    Support for young artists is a very important area of the museum’s activity. Over the years, thanks to it, viewers have become acquainted with dozens of aspiring authors, and many of their names have since become known to the general public. This year, the exhibition halls on Gogolevsky Boulevard will present five personal projects by artists Oksana Afanasyeva, Yulia Vorobyova, Yukiko Ogawa, Maria Smolyaninova, and Elena Sharganova.

    There will also be a traditional annual exhibition of young art, “Workshop,” where artists will be able to work with the museum’s collections, conduct artistic research, and show the results of their work within the museum’s walls in December 2025.

    In addition, it is worth noting the cooperation with other institutions. As part of the continuation of a long-term joint program with the GES-2 Culture House, the museum will help artists implement their projects using high-quality materials and advanced equipment. The result this year will be two exhibition projects at the main sites of the Moscow Museum of Modern Art.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: For walks and family recreation: what the sites of the Winter in Moscow project will delight you with

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    At the project sites “Winter in Moscow” you can immerse yourself in a real fairy tale. Installations, colorful lights, designer photo zones and cozy winter gardens make the city truly festive and turn a walk with family and friends into a magical adventure.

    For example, at the beginning of Kuznetsky Most Street a Christmas station appeared. There you can warm up with hot drinks and buy holiday souvenirs. The upper part of the street was decorated with a pine forest, through which a Christmas express rushes. And decorations, gazebos and snowman figures create an atmosphere of a winter fairy tale.

    Stoleshnikov Lane was decorated in red and gold. Unusual arches with mini-shops were installed here, where you can buy holiday souvenirs and try seasonal delicacies. Garlands with golden bells were spread over the lane, and the promenade area was decorated with coniferous plants and classic Christmas compositions.

    Kamergersky Lane has become a cozy lounge area with comfortable benches. The space is decorated with coniferous and evergreen plants, and the shop windows are also decorated in an original way. On this site, you can have a cup of tea and try signature treats as part of the Moscow Tea Party festival.

    On Tverskoy Boulevard, near the monument to K.A. Timiryazev, there is a fairytale forest. The central place in it is occupied by a five-meter Nordman fir, decorated with retro toys and lights. The space organically combines mountain pines, willows and ornamental shrubs. Backlighting in the form of balls makes this area especially beautiful in the evening.

    The square near the Barrikadnaya metro station has been decorated with giant holiday gifts and multi-tiered green areas, where fir trees, as well as Serbian and blue spruces, are harmoniously combined. Garlands and golden accents create an atmosphere of coziness and warmth.

    Hexagonal display cases with plant compositions were installed at Birzhevaya Square and at Chistye Prudy. These are sites for memorable winter photographs.

    New Arbat has been transformed into a winter garden with coniferous trees, huge Christmas tree balls and retro cars hovering in the air. Old Arbat has been decorated in the “Warm Traditions” concept – a reminder of childhood and family holidays. Here you can see a knitted train decorated with soft woolen details, as well as various Christmas accessories.

    Project “Winter in Moscow”— the main event of the season, which until February 28 brings together various events in the capital. Citizens and tourists are invited to remember traditions and history, warm up with tea and hot buns, go ice skating, watch ice shows, give gifts to people who find themselves in a difficult life situation, and show concern for those who need it.

    Muscovites and guests of the capital are offered a huge selection of events in the open air and in cultural and sports institutions. The atmosphere of winter traditions has engulfed the entire city – more than 1.9 thousand sites are open. The project organically intertwined with the largest festivals of the capital “Moscow Estates”, “Moscow Tea Party”, “City of Light” and many others. All information about the project and events of the winter season can be found in a special section of mos.ru.

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Parents of ninth-graders will be told how to help their child choose a profession

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    On February 15, the Professions of the Future center will host a meeting for parents of ninth-graders entitled “PROSaturday: Your Child’s Future.” Experts will tell you which areas are in demand on the labor market, how to help a teenager make a conscious choice of profession, and where to acquire the necessary skills.

    The meeting will be held from 12:00 to 15:00 at the address: Shchepkina Street, Building 38, Building 1. To participate, you must pre-register.

    The city helps young Muscovites develop their skills and decide on their choice of profession. Today, specialists with secondary vocational education are especially in demand. They have practical skills that are important for employers.

    “In Moscow, 75 percent of vacancies are available to college graduates. Employers value conscious employees who already have an idea of their specialty, the labor market, and career prospects. We are ready to answer questions from parents of ninth-graders to help them broaden their view of different career options. Our event includes a meeting with leading experts from the employment service, heads of Moscow colleges, and the largest employers in Moscow. Parents will learn about promising sectors of the city’s economy, where it is worth going to work and why, which areas will be relevant in the next 10 years, how much a young specialist can earn,” said Andrey Tarasov, director of the employment service and the Professions of the Future center.

    Such events are one of the stages of a unique comprehensive career guidance program for ninth-graders. It also includes an interactive introduction to in-demand professions at the Professions of the Future center. A 5D cinema and VR simulators allow you to try on the professions of a welder, turner, barista, baker, cook, waiter, nurse, electric train driver, and many others.

    The next stage of the program is career guidance testing, after which schoolchildren receive individual consultations from career mentors and meet with representatives of Moscow colleges.

    The Moscow City Employment Service is the largest state personnel operator that helps people find work. Its structure includes employment offices, many of which are located in the My Documents government service centers. The flagship centers are open at the following addresses: Kuusinen Street, Building 2, Block 1, and Shabolovka Street, Building 48. The specialized My Career employment center is located on Sergiya Radonezhskogo Street (Building 1, Bldg. 1).

    In the center “Professions of the Future” in a maximum of 3.5 months, you can master one of 75 sought-after professions in various sectors of the economy. Career mentors will help you find a job after completing your training. The center’s partners include more than three thousand employers. In addition, it implements a comprehensive career guidance program for ninth-grade students.

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Strict rules: how veterinary experts check the quality of fish and seafood

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    High-protein products of animal origin require particularly careful control. The Moscow-on-the-Wave fish markets have special laboratories where employees of the state budgetary institution Mosvetoedinenie monitor the products. We tell you what stages of testing fish and seafood go through.

    Veterinary examination is not only a check of food products. Since fish is a very demanding product, the conditions of its transportation are of great importance, and therefore the condition of the vehicle. Thus, in addition to checking the veterinary accompanying documents, a specialist of the state veterinary service inspects the internal surfaces of the car. They must be smooth, easy to wash and disinfect. The temperature maintained in the cargo compartment of the vehicle is also checked. For example, chilled food fish products must be stored at a temperature of up to five degrees, but above the freezing point of tissue juice, and frozen fish products – at a temperature of no higher than minus 18 degrees.

    Then the veterinary expert starts checking the organoleptic indicators, carefully examining the appearance. It is important that the products do not have cuts, cracks and subcutaneous yellowing that occurs when fats oxidize.

    The next stage of the examination is dosimetric and radiometric studies. In addition, specialists check the consistency, smell and temperature of the products. If all indicators are in order, the batch is accepted.

    The Moscow-on-the-Wave fish market opened in the Kosino-Ukhtomsky district in November 2023, and in Mitino on September 25, 2024. How reported earlierSergei Sobyanin, last year they were visited by more than 1.5 million people, and over one thousand tons of products were sold.

    The Moscow-on-the-Wave fish markets offer a wide range of fish and seafood from three oceans and 13 seas that wash Russia. Residents and guests of the capital can buy fresh carp, chilled Murmansk salmon, red mullet on skewers, northern omul and whitefish in fresh-frozen and smoked form, lightly salted tugunok, Olyutor herring and much more.

    More information about the activity Department of Trade and Services can be found in the official telegram channeldepartments.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: News 02/11/2025 Blackburn, Ernst Bill Pursuing $200 Billion in COVID Fraud Advances

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Joni Ernst’s (R-Iowa) Complete COVID Collections Act to extend the life of the watchdog tasked with tracking down criminals who stole COVID relief designed for small businesses.

    “During the pandemic, small business owners in need of financial assistance were turned away because criminals, gang members, and drug traffickers stole money from the relief program,” said Senator Blackburn. “This legislation would help ensure we recoup every penny of funding that was wrongly awarded to criminals who gamed the system.”

    “I will not allow fraudsters to get away with stealing hundreds of billions of dollars from taxpayers,” said Senator Ernst. “We are going to recoup every cent and end the cycle in Washington of shrugging off a few billion here and a few hundred million there. That irresponsible mindset is why the federal government is more than $36 trillion in debt. I’m proud to lead this step forward to treat tax dollars like a family treats its budget instead of like a bottomless slush fund.”

    “Programs designed to provide relief to our small businesses were repeatedly taken advantage of, leaving small businesses hurting and taxpayers on the hook,” said Senator Young. “I’m glad to see this effort to recover taxpayer dollars and protect Americans from fraud and abuse pass out of committee. I look forward to voting for this bill on the Senate floor.”

    “Family-owned businesses in Utah played the rules and used COVID-19 relief funds as intended, but bad actors exploited the system and defrauded taxpayers,” said Senator Curtis. “By extending oversight authority over these programs, our legislation strengthens enforcement efforts and holds criminals accountable for stealing from the American people. I’m proud to see our bill pass out of the Small Business Committee.”

    BACKGROUND:

    • While SBA ran the relief programs on a “first come, first serve” basis, the money ran out quickly, and many qualifying businesses were turned away as felons, gang members, and drug traffickers raked in cash. Some swindlers uploaded pictures of Barbie dolls as photo identification on SBA loan applications that were approved.
    • One alleged fraudster took home $8 million while nearly 2,000 struggling restaurants in Iowa were left empty-handed. 

    • Senators Blackburn and Ernst led several of their Republican colleagues in introducing the bill after the Special Inspector General for Pandemic Recovery (SIGPR) warned its authority was expiring and con artists would get away with stealing more than $200 billion.

    CO-SPONSORS: 

    • The bill is cosponsored by Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), and John Curtis (R-Utah).

    Click here to view the bill text.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Lebanon: UNHCR chief issues urgent aid appeal to stem humanitarian catastrophe

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    Peace and Security

    The UN High Commissioner for Refugees called on Sunday for greater international support to stem the “humanitarian catastrophe” now engulfing Lebanon following a massive escalation in Israeli airstrikes and a “limited” ground invasion there targeting Hezbollah militants.

    According to the Lebanese health ministry over 2,000 Lebanese have been killed and nearly 10,000 wounded since the start of Israel’s offensive against Hamas in Gaza a year ago.

    Israel intensified its bombing campaign across the whole of Lebanon following the killing of Hezbollah’s leader last month, and Iran’s ballistic missile assault on Israeli cities, in a bid to allow some 60,000 Israelis to return to their homes in the north where rocket fire across the UN-patrolled Blue Line of separation has caused mass evacuations on both sides.

    UNHCR chief Filippo Grandi, who arrived in the capital Beirut on Saturday, said hundreds of thousands have been made destitute in recent days and appealed for an immediate ceasfire.

    Two weeks of deadly Israeli airstrikes have forced over a million people to flee their homes. Mr. Grandi visited Beirut to express his solidarity with Lebanon and to mobilize more support for all those affected, both Lebanese and refugees.

    © UNHCR

    UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi visits Lebanon on a solidarity mission as humanitarian needs grow.

    Tragic toll

    The conflict ravaging the country is disrupting urgently required supply shipments, said UNHCR, calling for supply routes within and into Lebanon to be preserved, so the flow of relief items can continue.

    During his visit, Mr. Grandi met Prime Minister Najib Mikati and other senior officials, together with senior humanitarians, UNHCR staff, and displaced families.

    “I’ve witnessed today the tragic toll this war is taking on entire communities,” said Mr. Grandi.

    “International humanitarian law must be respected and cannot be ignored. Families have been left homeless, stranded in the open air with traumatized children unable to understand what’s happening. They all told me how desperate they are to feel safe, and for the airstrikes to stop so they can return to their towns and villages.”

    He said it was an “urgent moral imperative to help the people affected by this recent escalation. They should not pay the price for the abysmal failure to find political solutions and end this vicious cycle of violence. Now, in this hour of overwhelming need, the world must come to Lebanon’s aid.”

    With large numbers displaced within the country in just two weeks, government-run shelters are overwhelmed and UNHCR is working with humanitarian partners and the authorities to urgently find safe shelter for those forced to flee.

    UNHCR relief

    UNHCR is also providing people with essential relief items, cash assistance, shelter assistance, medical care and other support. But the international community must significantly increase funding in order for humanitarians to respond adequately, the agency said on Sunday.

    UNHCR has launched an appeal for $111 million to assist one million displaced people in Lebanon through the end of 2024, as part of a wider UN appeal for $425.7 million.

    Mr. Grandi’s visit to Lebanon included meeting displaced Syrian refugees in Beirut’s Nabaa neighbourhood.

    “I deeply appreciate Lebanon’s generosity in hosting so many refugees over the years – including those forced to flee Syria – despite the considerable challenges the country has faced. These refugees are now forced to flee again with scant resources and nowhere safe to go.”

    UNIFIL alert

    The UN peacekeeping mission that patrols the Blue Line and offers support to civilians in southern Lebanon, UNIFIL, has expressed deep concern over military activity by the Israeli Defense Forces close to one of the mission’s positions inside Lebanese territory.

    UNIFIL has said all its Blue Helmets are remaining in place at observation points and bases along the line of separation in accordance with their UN mandate.

    “The IDF has been repeatedly informed of this ongoing situation through regular channels. This is an extremely dangerous development,” said UNIFIL in a tweet.

    “It is unacceptable to compromise the safety of UN peacekeepers carrying out their Security Council-mandated tasks.”

    UNIFIL reminded all combatants of their obligations to protect UN personnel and property.

    In an update on the situation facing Irish military personnel serving with UNIFIL, the Irish Defence Forces said in a post on X that despite the “tough conditions”, personnel remain steadfast in their determination and resilience to fulfill the mission.”

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: World News in Brief: UNAMA concern over migrant deaths, ‘war tactics’ in the West Bank, UN political chief underscores support for Somalia

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    Migrants and Refugees

    The UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) expressed its deep concern over disturbing reports that Iranian border police opened fire on a group of Afghan migrants, resulting in deaths and injuries. 

    The alleged attack occurred on 14 to 15 October in the Kala Gan border area of Iran’s Sistan Province near the Iran-Pakistan border. 

    The organisation Haalvsh, which focuses on Baloch rights in Iran, has claimed that up to 260 civilians may have been killed or wounded. However, these figures remain unconfirmed. 

    Afghanistan’s de facto authorities stated that an investigation into the incident has begun. UNAMA’s Human Rights Service is in contact with the DFA regarding the matter. 

    UNAMA has called for a “thorough and transparent investigation” into the reported attack. The mission emphasised that the  “rights, of migrants, refugees and asylum seekers are protected by international law.”

    © UNICEF/Alaa Badarneh

    Families are being displaced from their homes in Jenin in the northern West Bank due to an escalation of violence.

    West Bank Palestinians facing deadly ‘war-like tactics’, warns OCHA

    Palestinians continue to face “war-like tactics” used against them by Israeli forces and settlers in the West Bank, the UN aid coordination office, OCHA, said on Friday.

    According to OCHA, from 8 to 14 of October, Israeli forces in the West Bank killed nine Palestinians, including a child. Another 104 were injured, including nine youngsters. 

    “Israeli forces accused most of those fatalities of being involved in attacking Israelis,” said OCHA spokesperson Jens Laerke.

    The olive harvest which takes place during October and November and is “an economic lifeline for tens of thousands of Palestinian families in the West Bank” has also been targeted, Mr. Laerke warned, with hundreds of olive trees and saplings “vandalized, sawed off, or stolen”. 

    Killed picking olives

    “Yesterday, a Palestinian woman was reportedly killed while she was harvesting olives in Jenin. This follows 32 attacks by Israeli settlers this month on Palestinians engaged in the ongoing olive harvest happening right now.”

    The woman was with her family and other community members on land near the Wall separating Israel and the West Bank. 

    According to information gathered by the UN rights office, OHCHR, the harvesters were not posing any threat whatsoever when Israeli security forces fired multiple shots at them without prior warning.

    The arbitrary killing comes in the context of intensified, organized attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinian harvesting teams to sabotage the olive harvest, along with use of force by Israeli security forces to block Palestiniansˈ access to their lands in an apparently arbitrary manner. 

    During the first week of the official Palestinian olive harvest season OHCHR recorded dozens of incidents of violence against Palestinian harvesters and disruption of access to olive groves.

    Among other alarming incidents, on 13 October, Palestinian landowners from Qusra, Nablus, found 115 of their trees cut down with a chainsaw after resisting harassment and threats by settlers and security forces to vacate their groves.

    Mr. Laerke said that although there has been settler violence for “a very long time, this year is extraordinary”.

    He noted that about 160,000 people have had their work permits for Israel cancelled, depriving families of livelihoods and income.

    Senior official underscores UN support for Somalia

    The UN political affairs chief concluded a two-day visit to Somalia on Friday where she reaffirmed the world body’s support for the country’s efforts towards peace- and state-building.

    Rosemary DiCarlo said the UN has been a longstanding partner to Somalia and remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting the Government and people.

    “Together, we aim to build on the commendable achievements and priorities agreed upon to address key development challenges facing the country – we stand ready to work alongside the Federal Government of Somalia to accomplish this,” she added.

    Achievements and transitions

    While in the capital, Mogadishu, Ms. DiCarlo met with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and senior members of his team for wide-ranging discussions, in addition to meeting with representatives of civil society, international partners and the diplomatic community.

    In her meeting with the President, Ms. DiCarlo noted Somalia’s many achievements in the past year, including debt relief under the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries Initiative, the accession to the East African Community, and the lifting of the arms embargo.

    Looking forward, she offered her congratulations on Somalia taking up a seat on the UN Security Council starting next year. She also underscored the commitment of the UN to continue to support Somalia in the period ahead and to work closely on the proposed transition of the UN mission in the country, UNSOM.

    Ms. DiCarlo also met with Ambassador Mohammed El-Amine Souef, the Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission for Somalia and Head of the AU Transition Mission there, ATMIS. 

    They discussed ATMIS’s upcoming transition to the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) which begins in January. 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Displacement crisis reaches 123 million amid ongoing conflicts

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    Migrants and Refugees

    The UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, has called for “urgent international support” as the number of forcibly displaced people worldwide reaches 123 million, with ongoing conflicts in Lebanon, Sudan and other areas driving further displacement.  

    In a statement to the Third Committee of the General Assembly, Mr. Grandi highlighted the “catastrophic” humanitarian situation in Lebanon, where Israeli airstrikes have caused massive civilian casualties and infrastructure damage, including schools, hospitals and roads. 

    “The humanitarian consequences are overwhelming and require urgent international support,” he stated, noting that 470,000 people have crossed into Syria in recent weeks. 

    In Sudan, the situation has also reached critical levels, with more than 11 million people displaced since the conflict began 18 months ago. 

    “Conditions in Sudan defy description – wanton violence, sexual atrocities, starvation, floods, disease. We are witnessing in real time the collapse of a nation’s social infrastructure,” he warned. 

    Call for new approach 

    Mr. Grandi expressed particular concern about the increasing trend of governments implementing restrictive measures that focus on border controls and sometimes attempt to “outsource, externalize or suspend asylum.” He emphasized that such approaches are “not only ineffective but also breach their international legal obligations”. 

    He called for a more comprehensive and effective approach to addressing displacement, urging countries to look beyond border control and consider “entire displacement routes”. 

    He urged countries to “look for opportunities in countries of origin” to  “strengthen the resilience of communities at risk of climate displacement”. 

    He encouraged Member States to “look for opportunities to expand legal stay and regularisation programmes in countries of asylum or transit, creating access to services and to employment”, and to establish more “pathways so people can move legally and safely.” 

    Addressing funding challenges, Mr. Grandi revealed that the UN refugee agency UNHCR, had to reduce 1,000 positions and freeze critical life-saving activities due to recent financial constraints. He noted that “funding levels for 2025 and beyond remain uncertain, further jeopardising our and host countries’ ability to respond to refugee and displacement crises in a predictable and flexible manner”. 

    “We must be able to act – together – even in difficult times,” he concluded, emphasizing the need for continued international solidarity with displaced and stateless people worldwide.  

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ADB’s North American Representative Office Celebrates 30 Years of Partnership

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    Transcript

    SUPERS

    ADB logo
    Asian Development Bank
    North American Representative Office
    30 Years of Partnership

    Samuel Tumiwa, NARO Representative:

    [Music] The North American Representative Office was established 30 years ago, in 1995. Our main job is to maintain a strong relationship with the US government and the Canadian government. One of the things that’s become more and more important is that we also share with the people here in the US and Canada what we do in the developing countries in Asia and the Pacific.  

    Alain Borghijs, NARO Deputy Representative:

    It’s crucial that we work closely with our government partners because they guide us on their development policy priorities. I should also mention our close collaboration with other financial institutions based here in DC: the World Bank, Inter-American Development Bank, and International Monetary Fund. Our corporate-level work here complements the on-the-ground collaboration that we have in the developing countries.  

    Scott Morris, Vice-President (East and Southeast Asia, and the Pacific):

    If I look at the US in particular, they have been a key architect of the broader MDB Evolution agenda, which is enabling us as an institution to up our game and provide more resources to these countries. When I look to Canada, I see critical intellectual leadership, particularly in providing us a course to follow on a gender-based strategy.  

    Roberta Casali, Vice-President (Finance and Risk Management):

    Thought leadership and important policy dialogues in the US and Canada have strengthened our innovative finance and balance sheet optimization solutions.  

    Yingming Yang, Vice-President (South, Central and West Asia):

    Both the US and Canada have worked to support telecommunication activities and small businesses. US and Canadian technology and innovation have been essential to our work in Asia and the Pacific.  

    Xinning Jia, Director General of Strategy, Policy, and Partnerships:

    The United States is a founding member of ADB and the co-largest shareholder, promoting excellence in ADB’s strategy and policy direction. Canada is a founding member of ADB, always promoting gender equality. Canada is supporting ADB’s climate finance through the Canadian Climate Fund for the private sector in Asia.  

    Suzanne Gaboury, Director General of Private Sector Operations:

    Both the US and Canada are great supporters of the private sector, which is really important for us. As a consequence, we have many Canadian clients and many US clients that come to visit us in the Philippines. It’s also really important that we come here to North America to visit them in their home countries. Last year, for every dollar that we invested, we mobilized another $2.7. I think that’s remarkable because we need to mobilize capital into the private markets and help capital market development. Part of our job is to be a financial intermediary in these markets.  

    Steve Goldfinch, Senior Disaster Risk Management Specialist:

    NARO provides an important link across ADB’s developing member countries in Asia and the Pacific and the governments of the US and Canada. Partners and organizations such as the World Bank and think tanks based here in DC make DC not only a center of development finance but also of development thinking. From the MDBs headquartered here to the think tanks and policy centers, NARO’s role is really that of a convener, broker, and connector. This is critical in serving ADB’s member countries.  

    Natasha Mooney, NARO Senior External Relations Officer:

    When I think about the theme of partnerships in line with the 30th anniversary, I see that as not just financial partnerships but also knowledge collaboration. We can do more in terms of coming together and convening power, bringing networks together, whether it be academia, civil society, government, private sector, or diaspora communities. I think there’s a lot that we can do in terms of the theme of partnerships, but again, really trying to drive progress on our shared goals within the region. The last 30 years have seen incredible innovation with partnerships between Canada, the US, and the ADB, and we’re really looking forward to seeing what the future holds. 

    MIL OSI Economics –