NewzIntel.com

Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Prime Minister takes part in National HIV Testing Week

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    In support of National HIV Testing Week, the Prime Minister undertook a public rapid HIV home test, available for free, in No10 Downing Street.

    • Prime Minister takes part in National HIV Testing Week – UK Government backed drive offering free, quick and easy HIV self and home testing kits. 
    • First Serving Prime Minister and serving G7 leader to take a public HIV test.  
    • HIV Testing Week to drive efforts to reach estimated 4,700 undiagnosed people living in England to end new HIV transmissions by 2030.

    In support of National HIV Testing Week, the Prime Minister undertook a public rapid HIV home test, available for free, in No10 Downing Street. 

    By taking part in the campaign, he will be the first serving British Prime Minister and serving G7 leader to take a public test on camera. 

    Joined by Terrence Higgins Trust Patron Beverley Knight, the Prime Minister took a rapid home test to raise awareness that during National HIV Testing Week, anyone in England can order a free and confidential HIV test from www.freetesting.hiv to do at home. 

    The campaign which sees up to 20,000 funded kits being available to the public – centres on regular home or self-testing – one way to meet the Government’s ambition to end new HIV cases in England by 2030 committed to by the Prime Minister in December. 

    After undertaking a test, the Prime Minister said:

    It is really important to do it, and I am pleased to have taken part too. It’s easy, it is quick. And during testing week you can get a test free – so it is a great time to also take part.

    If people test, they will know their status, it is better that people know, and that is a good thing because you can then get access to treatment, and that will also help meet our collective target to end new HIV transmissions by 2030.

    It comes as polling by YouGov, on behalf of leading HIV Charity the Terrence Higgins Trust, has found that more than 80% of adults in England are unaware it is possible to test for HIV at home.  

    However, when prompted as an option, at-home testing was the most popular way to know your HIV status, with 44% of people saying it would be their preference.  

    The Prime Minister has committed to ending new HIV cases in England by 2030, with a new HIV Action Plan to be published in summer 2025.  

    Once diagnosed, people living with HIV can access free, effective treatment which means they can have a normal life expectancy and can’t pass on the virus.   

    Richard Angell OBE, Chief Executive of Terrence Higgins Trust said: 

    The Prime Minister has made history by becoming the first G7 leader to publicly take an HIV test while in office and has led by example.  

    This free, quick and simple test sends a powerful message to the country and to the public. During National HIV Testing Week, anyone in England can order a test to their home, whether that’s to Downing Street, to Penzance or to Berwick-up-Tweed. 

    England can be the first country in the world to end new HIV transmissions, but we are not on track to do so by 2030. Scaling up HIV testing will be crucial to our shared goal. We are delighted that Keir Starmer is leading from the front in this mission.

    Beverley Knight MBE said: 

    Living with HIV today is a world away from the experience that my late best friend Tyrone endured in the early 2000s. People living with HIV can now easily know their status, can access effective treatment and live a long, healthy life. I wish this was case for Ty. In his memory, I’m using my voice alongside the Prime Minister to make everyone aware of how easy it is to test. People need to hear the crucial message that thanks to effective medication people living with HIV can’t pass it on, so we can end this epidemic once and for all.

    Rebecca Mbewe, an author and speaker, who is living with HIV said: 

    Testing for HIV is the only way to know your status, and it helps you stay in control of your health. If you do have a positive result, you won’t be on your own. I have been living with HIV for close to 30 years, I am still able to do anything and everything that I like. I still have my glass of gin and tonic. I can still go out and dance. Thanks to free, effective medication, I have a full life, I can’t pass HIV on and I have a normal life expectancy. Every time I have a birthday I love telling people my age. It’s a statement. It’s a celebration.

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Press release: Prime Minister takes part in National HIV Testing Week

    Source: United Kingdom – Prime Minister’s Office 10 Downing Street

    In support of National HIV Testing Week, the Prime Minister undertook a public rapid HIV home test, available for free, in No10 Downing Street.

    • Prime Minister takes part in National HIV Testing Week – UK Government backed drive offering free, quick and easy HIV self and home testing kits. 
    • First Serving Prime Minister and serving G7 leader to take a public HIV test.  
    • HIV Testing Week to drive efforts to reach estimated 4,700 undiagnosed people living in England to end new HIV transmissions by 2030.

    In support of National HIV Testing Week, the Prime Minister undertook a public rapid HIV home test, available for free, in No10 Downing Street. 

    By taking part in the campaign, he will be the first serving British Prime Minister and serving G7 leader to take a public test on camera. 

    Joined by Terrence Higgins Trust Patron Beverley Knight, the Prime Minister took a rapid home test to raise awareness that during National HIV Testing Week, anyone in England can order a free and confidential HIV test from www.freetesting.hiv to do at home. 

    The campaign which sees up to 20,000 funded kits being available to the public – centres on regular home or self-testing – one way to meet the Government’s ambition to end new HIV cases in England by 2030 committed to by the Prime Minister in December. 

    After undertaking a test, the Prime Minister said:

    It is really important to do it, and I am pleased to have taken part too. It’s easy, it is quick. And during testing week you can get a test free – so it is a great time to also take part.

    If people test, they will know their status, it is better that people know, and that is a good thing because you can then get access to treatment, and that will also help meet our collective target to end new HIV transmissions by 2030.

    It comes as polling by YouGov, on behalf of leading HIV Charity the Terrence Higgins Trust, has found that more than 80% of adults in England are unaware it is possible to test for HIV at home.  

    However, when prompted as an option, at-home testing was the most popular way to know your HIV status, with 44% of people saying it would be their preference.  

    The Prime Minister has committed to ending new HIV cases in England by 2030, with a new HIV Action Plan to be published in summer 2025.  

    Once diagnosed, people living with HIV can access free, effective treatment which means they can have a normal life expectancy and can’t pass on the virus.   

    Richard Angell OBE, Chief Executive of Terrence Higgins Trust said: 

    The Prime Minister has made history by becoming the first G7 leader to publicly take an HIV test while in office and has led by example.  

    This free, quick and simple test sends a powerful message to the country and to the public. During National HIV Testing Week, anyone in England can order a test to their home, whether that’s to Downing Street, to Penzance or to Berwick-up-Tweed. 

    England can be the first country in the world to end new HIV transmissions, but we are not on track to do so by 2030. Scaling up HIV testing will be crucial to our shared goal. We are delighted that Keir Starmer is leading from the front in this mission.

    Beverley Knight MBE said: 

    Living with HIV today is a world away from the experience that my late best friend Tyrone endured in the early 2000s. People living with HIV can now easily know their status, can access effective treatment and live a long, healthy life. I wish this was case for Ty. In his memory, I’m using my voice alongside the Prime Minister to make everyone aware of how easy it is to test. People need to hear the crucial message that thanks to effective medication people living with HIV can’t pass it on, so we can end this epidemic once and for all.

    Rebecca Mbewe, an author and speaker, who is living with HIV said: 

    Testing for HIV is the only way to know your status, and it helps you stay in control of your health. If you do have a positive result, you won’t be on your own. I have been living with HIV for close to 30 years, I am still able to do anything and everything that I like. I still have my glass of gin and tonic. I can still go out and dance. Thanks to free, effective medication, I have a full life, I can’t pass HIV on and I have a normal life expectancy. Every time I have a birthday I love telling people my age. It’s a statement. It’s a celebration.

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Build to rent homes for essential workers in Sydney take off

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 10 February 2025

    Released by: The Premier, Minister for Housing, Minister for Lands and Property, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces

    New homes for rent at a subsidised rate are on the way for essential workers in Sydney with the Minns Labor Government today announcing the first site of it’s essential worker Build-to-Rent plan.

    Funded through the Minns Labor Government’s $450 million investment to deliver housing for essential workers, the Government’s developer Landcom will transform the former WestConnex dive site in Camperdown to deliver:

    • at least 200 build-to-rent units offered to essential workers like health workers, paramedics, teachers, police officers and firefighters at a discount to market rent, through a separate subsidy
    • approximately 300 additional units, including private units and a proportion of affordable rental housing
    • ground-floor retail or commercial, landscaped outdoor spaces and new pedestrian links, enhancing the neighbourhood’s amenity and vibrancy.

    The site was identified under the NSW Government’s Land Audit, which set out to find surplus government land that had been sitting unused and could be used to develop more homes.

    Landcom and Homes NSW were given first pick of the land audit sites, with this being the first site to be developed by Landcom.

    The site is well-located, close to transport, public spaces, amenities and education and health centres including one of Sydney’s largest hospitals, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital.

    Community and stakeholders will have the opportunity to help shape the design of the mixed-use development as the applications progresses through consultation.

    Construction is expected to begin in 2026, pending approvals, with the first essential workers moving in around 2028.

    The Camperdown site is the first secured by Landcom as part of the NSW Government’s build-to-rent essential worker housing program, with Landcom investigating additional sites.

    Landcom is also expected to start construction this year on 110 build-to-rent units in NSW’s Northern Rivers and South Coast, boosting rental supply in regions feeling the combined stresses of rising rents and lack of housing availability.

    The Government will retain ownership of the build-to-rent housing. Details about eligibility criteria, how to apply and the rental subsidy will be available closer to project completion.

    This is all part of the Minns Labor Government’s plan to rebuild our essential services while delivering critical new housing for those who need it across NSW.

    Premier of New South Wales Chris Minns said:

    “Essential workers are feeling the impact of the immense cost of housing and many can’t afford to live near their jobs. That’s why our plan is delivering this well-located, secure and accessible rental housing for the essential workers who keep Sydney running.

    “The former WestConnex dive site in Sydney’s Inner West has sat unused for years and thanks to our plan to identify vacant land, it will now to deliver housing for essential workers close to their jobs.

    “Every single day essential workers turn up to work keep our state running, the very least we can do is make sure that they have access to the housing they need, near their jobs at an affordable price.”

    Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

    “The Camperdown site is the first secured by Landcom as part of the NSW Government’s $450 million investment to deliver more than 400 build-to-rent homes for essential workers in metropolitan Sydney, closer to their jobs and services.

    “The new rental homes in Sydney’s Inner West will ease the pressure on essential workers employed nearby, providing greater housing choice, security and affordability, improving quality of life.

    “The development will transform unused Government-owned land with new homes for renters and buyers, while rejuvenating a key part of the Parramatta Road corridor.”

    Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:

    “The land audit is delivering and this site is proof. Instead of collecting dust, this site will help deliver much needed housing as part of approximately 7,000 new homes identified by the land audit.

    “The Minns Government is focused on building better communities and this large site will support our number one priority of delivering more housing for the people of NSW.”

    Minister for Housing Rose Jackson said:

    ”This is about providing much-needed affordable housing for the next generation of Sydneysiders so they can continue to live and work in their local areas.

    “Key workers are being priced out of their own communities, making it harder to build a future where they live and work. This investment is about backing them in—giving nurses, teachers and first responders more affordable rental options close to their jobs so they can keep doing the work that keeps our city running.”

    Mayor of Inner West Council Darcy Bryne said:

    ”We desperately need more affordable housing for essential workers in the Inner West and this project will make a real dent in the problem.”

    “For years people have talked about the Parramatta Road corridor as being an ideal location for higher density housing, this project will actually make that happen.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General James Stands with Federal Workers in Lawsuit Against Federal Buyout

    Source: US State of New York

    NEW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James today joined a coalition of 20 other attorneys general in standing with the nation’s federal employees in a challenge to the Trump administration’s harmful and misleading federal “buyout” plan. The coalition today filed an amicus brief in support of a motion for a temporary restraining order (TRO) filed by unions representing more than 800,000 federal employees, including nurses caring for veterans, school bus drivers, childcare providers, civil engineers, sanitation workers, scientists, and more. The attorneys general assert that the directive encouraging federal employees to resign would have a devastating impact on states’ ability to respond to natural disasters, support veterans, and deliver crucial services to millions of Americans. 

    “The administration’s plan to eliminate thousands of federal employees’ jobs is dangerous and would be disastrous for our country,” said Attorney General James. “Millions of Americans count on federal employees for crucial services like health care, childcare, transportation, emergency response, and so much more. Without the work of thousands of federal employees, communities across the country will suffer. My office is standing up for all working people against this reckless and unlawful directive.”

    In their brief, Attorney General James and the coalition emphasize that the indiscriminate loss of federal employees could have a devastating effect on cooperative aspects of federal, state, and local government—from those who care for veterans to those who arrive on the scene to provide aid when disaster strikes. In addition, the coalition states that the directive does not offer federal employees basic information about their pensions, health benefits, reinstatement rights, retirement, or other benefits. The coalition urged the court to grant a temporary restraining order to prevent this harm to federal workers and to protect the public interest.

    The unions filed suit in the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts, emphasizing that the directive caused widespread confusion and dismay among federal employees, who were faced with an arbitrary deadline to accept a misleading buyout offer that is illegal and contrary to federal ethics regulations. On February 6, 2025, U.S. District Court Judge George A. O’Toole, Jr. stayed the purported deadline of the directive until Monday, February 10, 2025, with a hearing to be held at 2:00 p.m.

    On February 3, after the so-called “Fork in the Road” directive was issued, Attorney General James led a coalition of 11 other attorneys general in warning federal employees of the misleading program and urging them to consult their unions before making a decision.

    Joining Attorney General James in submitting today’s brief are the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaiʻi, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, and the District of Columbia.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Stands with Federal Workers in Federal Buyout Challenge

    Source: US State of California

    OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today joined a coalition of 21 state attorneys general, standing with the nation’s federal employees in a challenge to the Trump administration’s federal “buyout” plan. In today’s amicus brief, the attorneys general support a motion for a temporary restraining order filed by the plaintiffs—the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE); AFGE Local 3707; the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees; and the National Association of Government Employees—against the U.S. Office of Personnel Management’s (OPM) “Fork in the Road” directive, issued on January 28, 2025. The directive is an attempt to force federal workers to choose, with only days to decide, between accepting a legally fraught “buyout” and potentially being terminated. It gave most federal employees little more than a week (until February 6) to accept “deferred resignation,” which purportedly would allow federal workers to resign and retain pay and benefits without showing up to work until September 30, 2025, under an implicit threat that their positions may otherwise be eliminated anyway.  

    “This much is clear: the Trump Administration continues to trample over the rights of workers,” said Attorney General Bonta. “Our federal employees provide necessary services that Americans rely on and contribute to our economy. At the California Department of Justice, we will continue to stand firm in our commitment to fighting for workers’ rights and the unions that support them.”

    The plaintiff unions filed suit in the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts, emphasizing that the directive and associated FAQs—which were revised multiple times—caused widespread confusion and disarray among federal employees, who were faced with an arbitrary deadline based on a directive that the plaintiff unions assert is illegal and contrary to federal ethics regulations. On February 6, 2025, U.S. District Court Judge George A. O’Toole, Jr., stayed the purported deadline of the “Fork directive” until Monday, February 10, 2025, with a hearing to be held at 2:00 p.m. that day in Boston.

    In today’s amicus brief, the attorneys general emphasized that the coercive nature of the directive to our Nation’s public servants harms the federal workforce.  The brief also explained that the indiscriminate loss of indispensable federal employees could have a devastating effect on federal, state, and local government, by improperly eliminating employees across the States who care for veterans to those who arrive when natural disaster strikes. The coalition urged the court to grant a temporary restraining order to prevent this harm to federal workers and to protect the public interest.

    Attorney General Bonta joins the attorneys general of Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, and the District of Columbia in filing this amicus brief. 

    A copy of the amicus brief can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Planning in process for John Renshaw Drive

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 10 February 2025

    Released by: Minister for Regional Transport and Roads

    The Australian and New South Wales governments are investing $15 million to progress planning work that will help cut congestion, reduce travel times and improve road safety at a major Hunter traffic bottleneck. 

    Currently, motorists face major travel time delays when navigating the junction of the M1 Pacific Motorway, John Renshaw Drive, Weakleys Drive and New England Highway at Beresfield.

    These delays are driven by high traffic volumes, multiple traffic signals and a lack of road capacity.

    The John Renshaw Drive project is jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments, with the Australian Government providing $12 million and the NSW Government providing $3 million.

    The NSW Government will investigate upgrades to John Renshaw Drive including improvement options for the intersection of the M1 Motorway and Weakleys Drive; lane duplication of Weakleys Drive between Enterprise Drive and Canavan Drive; and access from Weakleys Drive to the New England Highway.

    Once designed and delivered, the upgrades will reduce travel times for motorists and make movement of freight more efficient along a key part of the regional freight network which connects to the Port of Newcastle and Newcastle Airport.

    Further traffic and economic modelling is being conducted to confirm what the proposed upgrades will include and the final design. 

    Timelines for construction will be dependent on further funding and planning approvals.

    More information about the project is available here: https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/jrdup

    Quotes attributable to Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:

    “These upgrades to John Renshaw Drive will improve safety and traffic flow for better travel times and more reliable trips, especially during peak periods.

    “It will help meet current and future traffic demands in the area, as well as support the development of the proposed industrial areas and broader regional economy.”

    Quotes attributable to NSW Regional Transport and Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison:

    “John Renshaw Drive is a key connector between Maitland, Newcastle, Cessnock, Wallsend and the Upper Hunter.

    “Upgrades to John Renshaw Drive will support the development of proposed industrial areas as well as the broader regional economy by providing more efficient access for commuters and heavy freight between the Lower and Upper Hunter and to key regional employment areas such as the Port of Newcastle and Newcastle Airport.

    “This incredibly important planning is one of several projects, including M1 to Raymond Terrace and Hexham Straight Widening, we are undertaking to address current and predicted traffic growth at the critical strategic junction of the M1 Motorway, Pacific and New England highways.”

    Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Paterson Meryl Swanson:

    “The Australian and NSW governments are proud to be getting the ball rolling on upgrading John Renshaw Drive & Weakleys Drive which will improve connectivity, road transport efficiency and safety for many motorists.

    “We are planning for a more reliable, less congested road network in one of the fastest growing areas of NSW. This is essential for local residents in and across Maitland, Thornton and Beresfield.  We need better infrastructure and to build greater capacity in the network where it links to the M1 Pacific Motorway”

    Quotes attributable to State Member for Wallsend Sonia Hornery:

    “This area of the Hunter is growing rapidly which is why we need to ensure our infrastructure is up to shape.

    “I’m looking forward to seeing solutions which will ensure the best possible road network for our regional travellers while also minimising traffic delays for our local commuters.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Increased funds to address gender-based violence in South Australia

    Source: Ministers for Social Services

    Joint with:

    The Hon Amanda Rishworth MP
    Minister for Social Services 
    Minister for National Disability Insurance Scheme

    The Hon Katrine Hildyard MP
    Minister for Child Protection
    Minister for Women and the Prevention of Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence
    State Member for Reynell

    The Albanese Labor Government has secured another renewed five-year National Partnership Agreement on Family, Domestic and Sexual Violence Responses with the South Australian Malinauskas Labor Government.

    Working in partnership to deliver shared goals aimed at ending gender-based violence in one generation, the renewed National Partnership will see South Australia receive an additional $26.109 million in funding from the Commonwealth commencing 1 July 2025, to deliver vital services in the sector.

    This funding is being matched by $26.11 million in funding from the South Australian Government, indexed over the next five years.

    The new commitment brings the total Commonwealth allocation of National Partnership funding to $52.98 million for South Australia since 2022.

    Minister for Social Services, Amanda Rishworth, says all levels of Government must be working together to achieve the goals in the National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children 2022-2032.

    “Ending gender-based violence is the responsibility of everyone, and it is vital that we work collaboratively with our state government partners to deliver the best outcomes for all Australians,” Minister Rishworth said.

    “This partnership guarantees longer term funding and continues our ongoing collaboration with states and territories to assist frontline services and equip them with the tools to deliver quality supports for victim-survivors of gender-based violence.”

    Across all jurisdictions, the renewed National Partnership will deliver $700 million in new, matched investments from the Commonwealth and states and territories, supporting frontline FDSV services, including specialist services for women and children exposed to FDSV, and men’s behaviour change programs.

    South Australia’s Minister for Women and the Prevention of Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence, Katrine Hildyard said “2025 is a landmark year as we work to help prevent the horrific prevalence of violence against women and girls with our Royal Commission providing a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reshape how our state tackles this devastating issue”

    “This partnership demonstrates how determined our State and Commonwealth Governments are to act and put the best possible systems in place – to prevent violence before it starts, tackle perpetrator behaviour, shift attitudes and provide the best possible support to survivors” Minister Hildyard said.

    More information on the National Partnership Agreement is available on the Federal Financial Relations website.

    If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing domestic, family and sexual violence, you can call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit www.1800respect.org.au for online chat and video call services:

    • Available 24/7: Call, text or online chat
    • Mon-Fri, 9am – midnight AEST (except national public holidays): Video call (no appointment needed) 

    If you are concerned about your behaviour or use of violence, you can contact the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491 or visit www.ntv.org.au or Don’t Become That Man – operated by OARS in South Australia, Monday to Friday 2pm to 7pm – call 1300 24 34 13 or visit https://www.dontbecomethatman.org.au/

    Feeling worried or no good? Connect with 13YARN Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Crisis Supporters on 13 92 76, available 24/7 from any mobile or pay phone, or visit www.13yarn.org.au No shame, no judgement, safe place to yarn.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HKETO, Brussels hosts receptions in Türkiye and Italy to celebrate Chinese New Year (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    HKETO, Brussels hosts receptions in Türkiye and Italy to celebrate Chinese New Year (with photos)
    HKETO, Brussels hosts receptions in Türkiye and Italy to celebrate Chinese New Year (with photos)
    ******************************************************************************************

         The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels (HKETO, Brussels) hosted Chinese New Year receptions in Istanbul and Izmir, Türkiye respectively on January 30 and 31, followed by Milan, Italy on February 6, to carry on its series of celebration activities for the Year of the Snake.            The Special Representative for Hong Kong Economic and Trade Affairs to the European Union, Ms Shirley Yung emphasised in her welcoming remarks at the reception in Istanbul that Hong Kong remained as the prime gateway and super connector between China and the rest of the world, with our distinctive advantages under “One Country, Two Systems”.            “As an international financial, trade and shipping centre, and international hub for high caliber talents, we welcome more investors, innovators, start-ups and talents to make Hong Kong your partner and base for grapping the opportunities at both regional and global levels,” said Ms Yung.           Ms Yung highlighted that Hong Kong’s appeal as a global destination continues to grow. She also shared the good news of the reduction in liquor tax, and encouraged enterprises to take Hong Kong as a hub for global wine and liquor trade.            “We invite you to visit Hong Kong and indulge in its tempting gastronomic experience, complemented by high-quality wines and liquors,” added Ms Yung.            HKETO, Brussels took the opportunity to showcase Hong Kong’s unique East-meets-West culture. A cross-media performance fused with Chinese kung-fu, modern electronic music, comic and animation inspired by Hong Kong action movies was presented by the Hong Kong Arts Centre (Comix Home Base), showcasing the innovation and creativity of young artists in Hong Kong. The guests attending the reception in Milan were greeted by a delightful mix of Italian opera aria and Cantonese songs performed by an ensemble of talented Hong Kong musicians.           The receptions in Istanbul, Izmir and Milan brought together 400 guests, including officials from national governments, consulates and embassies, financial and business sectors, academia, cultural and creative sectors, media and the Chinese community, in Türkiye and Italy to mark the enduring friendship with Hong Kong. They were co-organised with Invest Hong Kong and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council.

     
    Ends/Monday, February 10, 2025Issued at HKT 3:30

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: INDIAN NAVY CHIEFS’ CONCLAVE 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 09 FEB 2025 5:40PM by PIB Delhi

    The Indian Navy Chiefs’ Conclave was held at the Naval Headquarters, New Delhi from 08 – 09 Feb 25, bringing together eight Former Naval Chiefs and the current Naval leadership.

    The aim of the Conclave was to gain from the collective experience and knowledge of the former Chiefs, and also update them on the latest developments and policy initiatives of the Navy.

    On 08 Feb, the former Chiefs were presented with an operational update, including policy initiatives, technological, materiel, and operational logistics advancements, and perspective plans at the new Nausena Bhawan.

    An exclusive session was also conducted to deliberate Manthan on key issues of interest, fostering an open exchange of ideas on the future of warfare and maritime strategy in an evolving geo-political landscape and HR paradigms.

    A Book titled “Legacy of Leadership: Naval Chiefs through Time” was released on the sidelines of the Conclave; chronicling the inspiring journeys of former CNSs.

    With personal stories, rare photographs and firsthand accounts, this “collector’s edition” offers a unique glimpse into the leadership of the former CNSs.

    “We are committed to carrying forward your illustrious legacy and the Indian Navy will continue to safeguard India’s national maritime interests, anytime, anywhere, anyhow” – CNS

    The Former Naval Chiefs also laid wreaths at the National War Memorial and paid homage to the Bravehearts of the Nation.

    The Chiefs’ Conclave 2025 reaffirms the Navy’s commitment to institutional continuity, leveraging the wisdom of past leadership while shaping the future of India’s maritime power.

    _____________________________________________________________

    VM/SKY                                                                                                        34/25

    (Release ID: 2101179) Visitor Counter : 33

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Maha Kumbh 2025: Special Scheme to provide Quality Ration at Affordable Prices to Devotees at Prayagraj

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Maha Kumbh 2025: Special Scheme to provide Quality Ration at Affordable Prices to Devotees at Prayagraj

    Over 1000 metric tons of ration distributed so far from NAFED; 20 mobile vans deployed, ration available via WhatsApp and Calls

    Posted On: 09 FEB 2025 7:16PM by PIB Delhi

    A special scheme by the Union Government is providing quality ration at affordable prices for devotees during the Mahakumbh 2025 at Prayagraj. NAFED (National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India) is distributing wheat flour, pulses, rice, and other essential items at subsidized rates. Devotees can also order rations via WhatsApp or call. More than 1000 metric tons of rations have already been distributed, and the distribution is ongoing across the entire Mahakumbh city and Prayagraj through 20 mobile vans.

     

     

    Mobile Vans bringing Affordable Rations to Ashrams and Devotees

     

    To ensure that saints, kalpavasis and devotees at the Mahakumbh do not face any food shortages, ration delivery is being done via mobile vans. Rohit Jain, the state head of NAFED, stated that this special scheme is being run by the Ministry of Cooperation, to ensure no devotee faces any food-related issues. Deepak Agrawal, MD of NAFED, is personally overseeing the entire operation to ensure that every person receives their food supplies on time.

     

     

    Devotees present at the Mahakumbh can place orders for rations through calls or WhatsApp on the number 72757 81810. The subsidized rations include wheat flour and rice in 10kg packets, while moong, masoor, and chana dal are being distributed in 1kg packets. As soon as orders are received via mobile vans, the rations are promptly delivered to the relevant ashrams and ascetics.

    So far, 700 metric tons of wheat flour, 350 metric tons of pulses (moong, masoor, and chana dal), and 10 metric tons of rice have been distributed. NAFED’s products and ‘Bharat Brand’ grains are quickly gaining popularity among the devotees.

     

    Through this scheme, the government is not only providing high-quality rations to the millions of devotees attending the Mahakumbh but is also making the process convenient and accessible. The mobile vans and on-call facilities have made this service even more effective, ensuring that the Mahakumbh 2025 remains a smooth and memorable experience for every devotee.

    *****

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Raksha Mantri to inaugurate Aero India 2025 at Yelahanka Air Force Station in Bengaluru on February 10, 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Raksha Mantri to inaugurate Aero India 2025 at Yelahanka Air Force Station in Bengaluru on February 10, 2025

    Showcasing air power, cutting-edge innovations & potential new global collaborations, the five-day event to provide thrust to the goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047

    Aero India 2025 will advance our vision of a strong, capable, secure & self-reliant India: Shri Rajnath Singh

    Participation of over 900 exhibitors & 90 countries set to make it the biggest-ever Aero India till date; Approx. 30 Defence Ministers & over 100 OEMs to attend

    Domestic defence production expected to cross Rs 1.60 lakh crore by 2025-26, with exports touching Rs 30,000 crore mark: RM

    Posted On: 09 FEB 2025 6:21PM by PIB Delhi

    The 15th edition of Aero India, Asia’s biggest aerospace and defence exhibition, will be inaugurated by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh at the Yelahanka Air Force Station in Bengaluru, Karnataka on February 10, 2025. With the broad theme of ‘The Runway to a Billion Opportunities’, the five-day extravaganza will showcase India’s aerial prowess and indigenous cutting-edge innovations alongside state-of-the-art products of global aerospace companies. In line with ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Make in India, Make for the World’ vision, the event will also provide a stage to forge international collaborations to fast-track the indigenisation process, thereby providing a thrust to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi-led Government’s resolve of making the country Viksit Bharat by 2047.

    Addressing a press conference in Bengaluru on the eve of the event, Raksha Mantri described Aero India as a crucial platform, which will drive forward the Government’s vision of a strong, capable India, secure and self-reliant India. “Aero India is a platform that showcases the strength, resilience, and self-reliance of New India. It is not just crucial for India’s defence preparedness, but it also plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of our nation. It will demonstrate our defence capabilities and forge global partnerships. Our goal is to enhance collaboration in areas of common interest with our friendly nations, fostering deeper cooperation and shared progress. The event is not just a showcase of technology and innovation, but will also serve as a source of inspiration for our youth, fostering scientific temperament and a spirit of innovation,” he said.

    Organised in a total area of over 42,000 sq m and with the confirmed participation of over 900 exhibitors, including 150 foreign companies, the event is set to be the biggest-ever Aero India till date. Shri Rajnath Singh termed the participation of more than 90 countries as a testament to the growing global confidence in India’s aerospace and defence capabilities. “Defence ministers or representatives from about 30 countries have come to participate in this event. The presence of Air Chiefs and Secretaries from 43 countries further highlights the significance of this event – not just for India, but for the entire international defence community,” he said.

    Highlighting the transformation of the defence and aerospace sector in the recent years, Raksha Mantri asserted that, today, India is not only capable of designing and developing major platforms and equipment within India, it has also successfully established a vast supply chain within the country. “Advanced platforms like Light Combat Aircraft Tejas, Light Combat Helicopter Prachand and C-295 Transport Aircraft are now being produced in India. We have also taken a firm resolve to manufacture fifth-generation fighter aircraft within the country. From the advanced variants of the Agni missile, the Astra missile system, and the Pinaka missile system to the cutting-edge Hypersonic missile system and the Akash air defence system, we have built numerous success stories. These achievements have played a crucial role in strengthening our defence sector, making India more self-reliant and secure,” he said.

    Shri Rajnath Singh added that post corporatisation of Ordnance Factory Board, the newly formed companies have started performing exceptionally well in defence production. “Under a well-considered and well-developed plan, we have actively worked to empower the private sector in the defence and aerospace industries. Today, India has a thriving private defence industry that has firmly established itself and is making significant contributions to our national security,” he said.

    Raksha Mantri expressed confidence that defence production, having crossed the record figure of Rs 1.27 lakh crore, will exceed Rs 1.60 lakh crore by the end of 2025-26. Defence exports, which touched the record figure of Rs 21,000 crore, he said, will surpass Rs 30,000 crore.

    Shri Rajnath Singh underlined the crucial role being played by the defence industrial sector in making India an economic super power. He stated that any breakthrough in the defence sector not only strengthens national security, but also impacts the economy. Technologies developed for defence applications promote innovation in the civil sector as well, leading to employment generation and economic development, he said. He termed Aero India a significant driver of economic strength, contributing to the overall growth and development of the economy. He expressed confidence that Aero India will be remembered as a historic milestone in India’s journey towards becoming a global leader in the aerospace and defence sector.

    The 15thAero India will be held between 10thand 14thFebruary 2025. February 10thto 12thhave been reserved as business days, with 13th& 14thset as public days for people to witness the show. The event comprises Defence Ministers’ Conclave; CEOs Roundtable; inauguration of India & iDEX Pavilions; Manthan iDEX event; Samarthya Indigenisation event; Valedictory function; seminars; breath-taking airshows and an exhibition of aerospace companies.

    Defence Ministers’ Conclave

    With the aim to strengthen defence cooperation with friendly nations amidst a rapidly-evolving global security landscape, Raksha Mantri will host the Defence Ministers’ Conclave on February 11 in hybrid mode. The theme this year ‘Building Resilience through International Defence and Global Engagement (BRIDGE)’ underscores the importance of supply chain resilience and strategic collaboration in defence.

    The last edition witnessed the participation of 27 Defence Ministers and Deputy Defence Ministers alongside 15 Defence & Service Chiefs and 12 Permanent Secretaries. This year, the participation has expanded as representatives from more than 80 countries are likely to participate in the conclave. Approx. 30 Defence Ministers in addition to Defence/Service Chiefs and Permanent Secretaries from friendly nations will attend the event.

    The conclave will provide a crucial platform to address key aspects such as Defence capacity building through investment, joint ventures & co-production, Collaboration in R&D, training & technological advancements in AI & space, Maritime security cooperation and strategic partnerships.

    CEOs Roundtable

    CEOs Roundtable 2025 will be chaired by Raksha Mantri on February 10, on the theme ‘Enabling Defence Cooperation through Global Engagement (EDGE)’. Over 100 Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) have confirmed their participation in the event. These include 55 from 19 countries (USA, France, Russia, South Korea, UK, Japan, Israel & Brazil etc), 35 Indian (Larsen & Toubro, Bharat Forge Ltd, Adani Defence & Aerospace, Mahindra Defence Systems Ltd, BrahMos Aerospace & Ashok Leyland Defence) and 16 Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs). Shri Rajnath Singh had addressed over 73 CEOs of 28 Foreign OEMs and 45 Indian OEMs in the 2023 edition of the event.

    Major foreign OEMs including Airbus (France), Ultra Maritime (USA), GNT (South Korea), John Cockerill Defence (UK), Mitsubishi (Japan), Rafael Advance Defence System (Israel), Safran (France) and Liebherr Aerospace (France) are expected to highlight their future plans, Joint Ventures, collaborations, partnerships with Indian companies for production of spares parts, development of aero-engines, setting up of Maintenance, Repair and Operations (MRO) facilities and establishment of R&D facilities etc.

    India Pavilion

    The India Pavilion will provide an opportunity to Indian Defence Industries to showcase their design, development, innovation and manufacturing capabilities. It will be inaugurated by Raksha Mantri on February 10. The grandeur show at India Pavilion would signify the ‘Flight of Self-Reliance’ which encapsulates India’s journey towards becoming a global aerospace and defence powerhouse.

    India Pavilion will be divided into five distinct zones displaying indigenous capabilities in aero aviation, land aviation and naval aviation, def-space and niche technologies domains.  More than 275 exhibits will be at display through various mediums, represented by complete defence ecosystem of the country which includes DPSUs, design houses, private corporates including MSMEs and start-ups. The Central Area exhibits will include a striking display of marquee platforms including Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft, Combat Air Teaming System, Twin-Engine Deck-Based Fighter.

    iDEX Pavilion

     The iDEX Pavilion will be inaugurated by Raksha Mantri on February 10. It will showcase cutting-edge indigenously developed products and technologies, marking a significant milestone in India’s defence innovation journey. Leading innovators will display their indigenously-developed products spanning a wide-range of advanced domains including Aerospace, DefSpace, Aero Structures, Anti-drone systems, Autonomous Systems, Robotics, Communication, Cybersecurity, Surveillance & Tracking, Unmanned Ground Vehicles etc. The Pavilion will also feature a dedicated section highlighting the winners of Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX (ADITI) scheme, showcasing their ground-breaking work in critical and niche technologies.

    iDEX has successfully onboarded over 600 start-ups and MSMEs, marking a significant milestone in fostering innovation. Furthermore, 40 prototypes developed under iDEX have received official clearance for procurement, with 31 procurement contracts worth Rs 1,560 crore already signed.

    Manthan

    Manthan 2025, the flagship annual defence innovation event, will be graced by Raksha Mantri on February 12. Organised by Innovations for Defence Excellence – Defence Innovation Organisation (iDEX-DIO), the event will bring together stakeholders of the defence innovation ecosystem including innovators, industry leaders, academia, incubators, investors, thought leaders, senior government officials etc.

    Manthan will deliberate on emerging challenges and opportunities in the sector, with a focus on supporting defence start-ups and MSMEs, enhancing innovation capabilities, and fostering strategic collaborations within the defence ecosystem. It stands as a testament to the scale and speed of iDEX, showcasing the rapid strides made in defence innovation and the pivotal role of start-ups in transforming India’s defence capabilities.

    Samarthya

    On the success story of indigenisation and innovation in the defence sector, an Indigenisation event on the theme ‘SAMARTHYA’ will be held on February 12 alongside the Valedictory function which will be graced by Raksha Mantri. This event is first-of-its-kind during Aero India, as it will showcase India’s indigenous ingenuity in defence manufacturing by demonstrating some of the major items indigenised by DPSUs, DRDO and Services with the involvement of the private sector.

    Bilateral Meetings

    Bilateral meetings at the levels of Raksha Mantri/Raksha Rajya Mantri/Chief of Defence Staff/Service Chiefs/Defence Secretary/Secretary (Defence Production) will take place on the sidelines of Aero India 2025.

    Seminars

    A number of seminars on a variety of topics will be organised as part of Aero India 2025. On February 11, Raksha Mantri is scheduled to address a seminar organised by the Indian Air Force on the theme ‘Manned Unmanned teams for Aerial Warfare – concept to targeting’ and another organised by DRDO on the theme ‘DRDO Industry Synergy towards Viksit Bharat’.

    Other seminars on the themes – Mission DefSpace: From Vision to Reality – A Progress Report; Indigenous Development of Aerospace Materials: Strengthening India’s Self-Reliance; Transition to Aatmanirbhar Indian Naval Aviation 2047 and its associated ecosystem; Transformation of Maritime Aviation by Adopting Technological trends and Indigenisation; Aligning Technologies to Future Conflicts; and Investment Opportunities for Aerospace & Defence Manufacturers in Karnataka – will also be held as part of the event.

    Historic First – Su-57 and F-35 at Aero India

    For the first time in history, Aero India 2025 will witness the participation of two of the world’s most advanced fifth-generation fighter aircraft – the Russian Su-57 and the American F-35 Lightning II. It marks a milestone in global defence collaboration and technological advancement, offering aviation enthusiasts and defence experts an unparalleled prospect to witness these state-of-the-art warplanes.

     

    • Su-57: Russia’s premier stealth multirole fighter is designed for superior air superiority and strike capabilities. Equipped with advanced avionics, supercruise capability, and stealth technology, it is making its debut at Aero India 2025. Visitors can expect high-speed aerial manoeuvres and tactical demonstrations that highlight the fighter’s agility, stealth and firepower.

     

    • F-35 Lightning II: The Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II, the most widely-deployed fifth-generation fighter, integrates advanced stealth, unparalleled situational awareness and networked combat capabilities. Its presence at Aero India 2025 will enable visitors to witness the flagship of US Air Force.

     

    The inclusion of both the Su-57 and F-35 highlights India’s position as a key hub for international defence and aerospace collaboration. Aero India 2025 will provide a rare side-by-side comparison of Eastern and Western fifth-generation fighter technology, offering defence analysts, military personnel and aviation enthusiasts valuable insights into their respective capabilities.

     

    Visitor-Friendly Experience

    With key infrastructure upgrades and improved amenities, Aero India 2025 promises to be bigger, smoother and more visitor-friendly than ever before.

     

    • Enhanced Infrastructure & Traffic Management: Recognising past challenges, extensive improvements have been made to facilitate seamless entry, movement and connectivity and there has been close coordination between Ministry of Defence, Indian Air Force (IAF), various arms of Karnataka State Government like Bengaluru Traffic Police, BBMP, NHAI, and Namma Metro. Approach roads have been widened to optimise traffic flow around Air Force Station Yelahanka so as to ease congestion and improve movement around the venue.

     

    • Security and Emergency Preparedness: Red drone zones have been designated and published with countermeasures in place to tackle unauthorised drone activity. Rapid Mobile Units will be deployed strategically to provide quick assistance and emergency support. Continuous mock drills with multiple agencies are being conducted to ensure practical and implementable contingency plans.

     

    • Exhibitor & Visitor Experience Enhancements: To enhance the experience for exhibitors and business delegates, the exhibition area has been revamped with several key upgrades:

     

    • Expanded and better-ventilated exhibition halls to accommodate more exhibitors and visitors comfortably.
    • Improved seating and rest zones throughout the venue.
    • Additional food courts and refreshment kiosks, including Indira Canteens (at parking areas).
    • Lost and found counters and ATM kiosks for visitor convenience.
    • Multiple water points, medical aid posts, and a dedicated cardiac aid post for emergencies, including medical evacuation.

     

    • Multi-Layered Security Measures: Ensuring the safety of all attendees, a multi-layered security system is being deployed in collaboration with the Ministry of Home Affairs, Bengaluru Police, CISF, and Intelligence Agencies. Measures include:

     

    • Enhanced security protocols and faster access control.
    • An operational Command and Control Centre for real-time responses to security concerns.
    • 24/7 CCTV monitoring for situational awareness.
    • Dedicated screening zones for visitors, exhibitors, and VIPs.
    • Disaster management and fire safety committees to handle emergencies.

     

    • Connectivity & Digital Infrastructure: To address connectivity challenges, all telecom service providers are deploying temporary mobile towers and network boosters for uninterrupted communication. A dedicated Aero India 2025 mobile app has also been launched which will provide live updates, navigation assistance, and event scheduling. Secure digital communication channels have also been established for coordination among agencies. Additionally, provisions have been made to support increased electricity demands during the event while ensuring safety.

     

    • Airspace Management & Demonstrations: Aero India demonstrations and aircraft movements are a major highlight of Aero India 2025. In coordination with AAI and HAL, the Indian Air Force has structured a dedicated Airspace management plan including:

     

    • Temporary flight restrictions around Aero India Force Station Yelahanka to maintain safety during scheduled demonstrations.
    • Strategic Aircraft parking and refuelling plans for domestic and international participants.

     

    • Business and Innovation Support: The Aero India provides a platform for collaborations and to facilitate B2B, G2B interactions and hosting roundtable discussions to showcase technological advancements. Special focus will be given to supporting start-ups and MSMEs by providing them with a global platform to present indigenous innovations.

     

    • Sustainability Initiatives: Aero India 2025 is committed to sustainability and has incorporated several eco-friendly measures in its conduct like:

     

    • Reduced vehicle movement to minimise pollution and enhance pedestrian comfort.
    • Exclusive use of more than 100 E Karts for movement of visitors in the exhibition venue.
    • Comprehensive waste management, including increased recycling bins, waste segregation zones, and timely disposal of waste.

     

    With these multi-agency collaborations, Aero India 2025 is set to be one of the most well-coordinated and better organised editions to date.

     

    Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth, Chief of Defence Staff & Secretary, Department of Military Affairs General Anil Chauhan, Chief Secretary, Government of Karnataka Dr Shalini Rajneesh, Secretary (Defence Production) Shri Sanjeev Kumar, Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat, other senior officials of Ministry of Defence and industry leaders attended the curtain raiser press conference.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India’s quantum leap testified by global success stories like Vaccine, Chandrayaan, says Dr. Jitendra Singh

    Source: Government of India (2)

    India’s quantum leap testified by global success stories like Vaccine, Chandrayaan, says Dr. Jitendra Singh

    India’s Scientific Rise: From DNA Vaccines to Space Tech, Dr. Jitendra Singh Highlights Key Achievements

    Traditional Knowledge is India’s Exclusive Asset, Says Dr. Jitendra Singh

    Integration is No Longer an Option But a Necessity: Dr. Jitendra Singh Calls for Greater Scientific Collaboration

    Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh Inaugurates Vigyan Bharati’s New Premises in New Delhi

    Posted On: 09 FEB 2025 5:10PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh said here today that India’s quantum leap was testified by global success stories like Vaccine and Chandrayaan.

    He was speaking after inaugurating the new premises of “Vigyan Bharati” in the national capital, describing the same as a long-felt need. He emphasized that the office would serve as a center for exchange of ideas and a seat of learning.

    Addressing the ceremony, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science & Technology; MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh stated that India is witnessing a transformative era in science under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He highlighted how the Prime Minister not only encourages but also provides unwavering support to the scientific community, strengthening it with resources and enabling collaborations with non-governmental sectors to achieve the best outcomes.

    Reflecting on the advancements of the past decade, Dr. Jitendra Singh stressed that while India has always had immense scientific acumen and talent, the missing element was commitment and prioritization from the political leadership—something that is now being actively addressed under PM Modi’s governance.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh underscored the significant progress India has made, particularly in healthcare. He noted that India, once not taken seriously in curative healthcare, is now emerging as a global leader in preventive healthcare. He proudly mentioned India’s achievements, including: The first DNA vaccine developed during the pandemic. The first indigenous HPV vaccine to combat cervical cancer and rapid advancements in space technology, despite a late start in the sector. He also spoke about India’s commitment to global climate change efforts, reaffirming the country’s target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted the importance of Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL), calling it a valuable repository of indigenous wisdom. He cited examples such as:
    The Konark Temple in Odisha, which remained intact even after the super cyclone of 2000, showcasing India’s architectural resilience.

    The growing interest in traditional medicine, as seen during the pandemic when the West explored homeopathy and naturopathy for potential remedies. He also referenced India’s success in using steel slag for road construction in Arunachal Pradesh, in collaboration with the Tata Group, drawing parallels with the durable routes of Ajanta and Ellora that have withstood the test of time.

    Quoting Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee, Dr. Singh remarked, “By remaining committed to our legacy, we should not deprive ourselves of what is happening across the world.” He urged Vigyan Bharati to act as an interface for identifying initiatives and fostering collaborations, similar to how IN-SPACe and BIRAC have become successful platforms for the space and biotechnology sectors, respectively.

    He also proudly announced India’s recent breakthrough in pharmaceuticals with the creation of the indigenous antibiotic ‘Nafithromycin’, positioning India as a leader in both traditional and cutting-edge technologies.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized that integration is no longer an option but a necessity and called upon Vigyan Bharati to become a key medium for broader scientific integration. He expressed confidence that such efforts would drive India’s continued rise as a global powerhouse in science and technology.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Farmers possess political strength and economic capability; they should not depend on anyone’s help – VP

    Source: Government of India

    Farmers possess political strength and economic capability; they should not depend on anyone’s help – VP

    No one can undermine the role of farmers in India’s journey towards development; today’s governance system is bowing to farmers – VP

    Those who have benefitted from reservations should never forget the efforts and support of society – VP

    Farmers should benefit from Agricultural Science Centers and engage in the trade of agricultural products – VP

    Posted On: 09 FEB 2025 2:35PM by PIB Delhi

    Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar today stated that farmers are the providers and should not depend on anyone’s help. Addressing the Akhil Mewar Region Jat Mahasabha in Chittorgarh, the Vice President said, “When the economic situation of farmers improves, the country’s situation improves. After all, farmers are the providers, and they should not look to anyone or depend on anyone for help because farmers, with their strong hands, possess political strength and economic capability.”

    “No matter what happens, no matter how many obstacles arise, no one can undermine the role of farmers in India’s journey towards development. Today’s governance system bows to the farmers,” he emphasized.

     Remembering the Jat reservation movement that took place 25 years ago, he said, “I am here 25 years later, and 25 years ago, a great work was done here. The struggle for social justice began, and Jats and some other castes received reservations. This initiative started in 1999, with prominent members of society present. I was one of them. We laid the foundation here in this sacred land, Devnagari, Mewar’s Haridwar, and achieved success, and today the results of that effort are visible in the administrative services of the country and the state. On the basis of that social justice, that reservation, those who benefitted from it are now in key positions in the government. My request to them is—look back and never forget that the support and efforts of this society gave us social justice… Whenever there is a movement, especially related to reservations, people become terrified, become violent, and fall victim to accidents. But on this sacred land, my head is held high, and my chest is broad with pride because our movement for social justice is the world’s greatest example. There was no disorder, no violence.”

    Encouraging farmers to take advantage of Agricultural Science Centers, he said, “There are over 730 Agricultural Science Centers to help farmers. Don’t leave them alone, go there and ask them—’What services will you offer us?’ Learn about new technologies and government policies. You’ll discover that the government has opened up a treasure trove for you, of which you may not be aware. You also may not know what cooperatives can do.”

    “If you visit even twice a month, the people working there will wake up, become active, and realize that the food provider is awake. The food provider will be asking for accounts, and when you ask for accounts, quality improvements will follow,” he pointed out.

    The Vice President emphasized farmers’ participation in the trade and value addition of agricultural products, stating, “Why isn’t the farmer increasing the value of their products? Several businesses are running on the products of farmers, like flour mills, oil mills, and many more. We should collaborate and make sure the farmer focuses on livestock. I feel great joy when dairies expand. There should be more growth in this sector. We should not limit ourselves to milk, but extend to products like buttermilk, yogurt, paneer, ice cream, rasgullas—farmers should contribute to these.”

    Urging youth to engage in agricultural business, the Vice President said, “My appeal is to farmers, and to the sons and daughters of farmers—agriculture production is the world’s largest and most precious trade. Why are farmers not involved in the trade of their products? Why aren’t they participating in it? Our youth is talented. My humble request is—more and more farmers should take advantage of cooperatives, engage in other businesses, and work diligently in agricultural production businesses. Take note; there will be long-term positive economic results.”

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Mahakumbh 2025: 3-day International Bird Festival to be organized in Prayagraj from 16th February

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 08 FEB 2025 10:15PM by PIB Delhi

    Visitors to Mahakumbh 2025 will get the chance to witness a gathering of over 200 species of migratory and local birds, in a three-day International Bird Festival to be organized from February 16 to 18, in Prayagraj. With an aim of promoting environmental conservation and biodiversity, this event will offer a unique opportunity for nature lovers, ornithologists, and devotees to observe rare bird species and understand the importance of their conservation.

    The International Bird Festival will not only offer the chance to view birds but also raise awareness about bird conservation through various competitions and educational activities. The festival will include photography, painting, slogan writing, debates, and quiz competitions. Additionally, national and international ornithologists, environmentalists, and conservation experts will share their insights in technical sessions and panel discussions.

    Alok Kumar Pandey, the IT Head of the Forest Department, stated that people can contact WhatsApp number 9319277004 for more details about the festival. The main aim of this initiative is to inspire youth, nature enthusiasts, and devotees to focus on bird conservation and the protection of their natural habitats. The government will award prizes worth a total of ₹21 lakhs, ranging from ₹10,000 to ₹5 lakhs, to the winners of various competitions, making this event even more attractive.

    During the International Bird Festival, devotees will have the opportunity to observe rare birds like the endangered Indian Skimmer, Flamingo, and Siberian Crane. This event will also provide an opportunity for visitors to understand the importance of natural beauty and biodiversity. Thousands of migratory birds from over 10 countries, including Siberia, Mongolia, and Afghanistan, have arrived at the banks of the Ganga-Yamuna in Prayagraj, attracting tourists with their unique flights and group migration patterns.

    Arvind Kumar Yadav, DFO Prayagraj, mentioned that the festival will not only be for entertainment but will also play a crucial role in the campaign for environmental balance and biodiversity conservation. He emphasized that bird conservation helps maintain natural disaster management and ecological balance, and such events will help sensitize people to nature.

    In line with the Prayagraj Mela administration’s directive, a special eco-tourism plan has been prepared for the devotees. They will be able to experience bird watching and learn about the importance of natural habitats. Through bird walks and nature walks with experts, devotees will have the opportunity to understand birds’ behavior, migration journeys, and their role in the ecosystem closely.

    Moreover, cultural programs, street plays, art exhibitions, and other activities will raise awareness about bird conservation and environmental balance during the Mahakumbh. The goal of this event is not just to raise awareness among devotees but also to take steps toward the conservation of natural resources for future generations. Bird enthusiasts, researchers, scientists, and students will gain new knowledge about ornithology and conservation at the International Bird Festival. Various sessions will discuss bird migration, habitat protection, the impact of climate change, and scientific facts about their survival.

    This festival will send a strong message about biodiversity and environmental sustainability, both in India and internationally. Students’ participation in bird conservation activities will provide them with an opportunity to connect with nature and understand their responsibilities. The International Bird Festival, to be held during the Maha Kumbh 2025, will be a unique blend of Indian culture, nature appreciation, and scientific perspective. It will work to make devotees and tourists understand the importance of natural wealth, save biodiversity, and inspire sustainable development.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Eradicates Anti-Christian Bias

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    ERADICATING ANTI-CHRISTIAN BIAS: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order establishing a task force to end the anti-Christian weaponization of government and unlawful conduct targeting Christians.
    The task force, officially known as the Task Force to Eradicate Anti-Christian Bias, will be comprised of members of President Trump’s cabinet and key government agencies.
    The task force will review the activities of all departments and agencies to identify and eliminate anti-Christian policies, practices, or conduct.
    The task force will gather input from various stakeholders to ensure broad perspectives are considered, including faith-based organizations, State, local, and Tribal governments, and Americans affected by anti-Christian conduct.
    It will identify and address gaps in laws and enforcement that have contributed to anti-Christian conduct, including by remedying any failures to fully enforce the law against acts of anti-Christian hostility, vandalism, and violence.
    The task force will recommend further presidential or legislative actions necessary to rectify past wrongs and protect Americans’ religious liberties.
    The task force will submit an annual report on its progress, with a final report upon its conclusion.
    PROTECTING AMERICANS’ RELIGIOUS FREEDOM: The previous Administration engaged in an egregious pattern of targeting peaceful Christians while ignoring violent, anti-Christian offenses. President Trump will not tolerate this abuse of government and is taking action to ensure that any unlawful and improper anti-Christian conduct, policies or practices are identified, terminated, and rectified.
    The United States Constitution enshrines the fundamental right to religious liberty in the First Amendment.
    The Biden Department of Justice brought felony charges and obtained multi-year prison sentences against nearly two dozen pro-life Christians for praying and peacefully demonstrating outside abortion facilities.
    The Biden Department of Justice ignored hundreds of attacks on Catholic churches, charities, and pro-life centers.
    In 2023, a Federal Bureau of Investigation memo asserted that traditional Catholics were domestic-terrorism threats and suggested infiltrating Catholic churches as “threat mitigation.” 
    The Biden Department of Education sought to repeal religious-liberty protections for faith-based organizations on college campuses. 
    The Biden Equal Employment Opportunity Commission sought to force Christians to affirm radical transgender ideology against their faith.
    The Biden Department of Health and Human Services sought to drive Christians out of the foster-care system. 
    In 2024, the Biden Administration declared Easter Sunday as “Transgender Day of Visibility.”
    STANDING UP FOR RELIGIOUS LIBERTY: President Donald J. Trump is committed to protecting Americans’ fundamental right to religious freedom.
    On his fourth day in office, President Trump pardoned the Christians and pro-life activists who were persecuted by the Biden Administration for praying and peacefully living out their faith.
    Last week, President Trump signed an Executive Order to combat anti-Semitism on our campuses and in our streets.
    President Trump: “I will create a new federal task force on fighting anti-Christian bias. That’ll be done immediately.”
    This Executive Order also builds on the long list of accomplishments from the first Trump Administration:
    During his first year in office, President Trump signed an Executive Order upholding religious liberty and the right to engage in religious speech.
    President Trump signed an Executive Order recognizing the essential contributions of faith-based organizations and establishing the Faith and Opportunity Initiative.
    President Trump reversed the Obama-era policy that prevented the government from providing disaster relief to religious organizations.

    President Trump hosted a Global Call to Protect Religious Freedom event at the United Nations and called on the international community and business lead

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Addresses Human Rights Violations in South Africa

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    ADDRESSING HUMAN RIGHTS VIOLATIONS IN SOUTH AFRICA: On Friday, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order to address serious human rights violations occurring in South Africa.
    As encapsulated in its recent land confiscation act to seize disfavored citizens’ property without compensation, the government of South Africa blatantly discriminates against ethnic minority descendants of settler groups.
    As long as South Africa continues to support bad actors on the world stage and allows violent attacks on innocent disfavored minority farmers, the United States will stop aid and assistance to the country.
    The United States will establish a plan to resettle disfavored minorities in South Africa discriminated against because of their race as refugees.
    STANDING UP AGAINST INJUSTICE AND OPPRESSION: President Donald J. Trump is committed to holding South Africa accountable for its actions.
    South Africa has taken positions against the United States and its allies.
    Merely two months after the October 7th terrorist attacks on Israel, South Africa accused Israel, not Hamas, of genocide in the International Court of Justice.
    South Africa also strengthened ties with Iran, which supports terrorism globally.

    While championing terrorism and autocratic regimes abroad, South Africa has committed similar human rights violations at home. The recent Expropriation Act enables the government of South Africa to seize ethnic minority descendants of settler groups’ agricultural property without compensation.         
    The Expropriation Act follows countless government policies designed to dismantle equal opportunity in employment, education, and business, and hateful rhetoric and government actions fueling disproportionate violence against racially disfavored landowners.
    Years ago, the South African government disbanded volunteer forces defending rural farmers, turning a blind eye to the ensuing farm attacks.

    REAFFIRMING OUR COMMITMENT TO HUMAN RIGHTS: A commitment to human rights is central to President Trump’s America First agenda.
    President Trump: “South Africa is confiscating land, and treating certain classes of people very badly […] I will be cutting off all future funding to South Africa until a full investigation of this situation has been completed!”
    President Trump believes in sending a clear message to the world’s bad actors—and to their victims—by condemning human rights abuses in no uncertain terms.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Is Protecting Americans’ Second Amendment Rights

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    STOPPING FEDERAL INFRINGEMENT ON CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order to end the federal government’s violation of Americans’ fundamental Second Amendment right to protect themselves, their families, and their freedoms.
    This Executive Order will halt existing policies designed to curtail the clear right of law-abiding citizens to keep and bear arms.
    The order directs the incoming Attorney General to immediately complete a specific review of all orders, regulations, guidance, plans, and other actions by the Biden Administration regarding firearms—listing several specific documents to be reviewed—and deliver a plan of action to the President to eliminate all infringements on Americans’ Second Amendment rights. 
    ENDING THE ATTACKS ON LAW-ABIDING GUN OWNERS AND GUN BUSINESSES: The Biden Administration has flagrantly sought to eliminate Second Amendment rights. Among other infringements, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) was weaponized to end the livelihoods of law-abiding small business owners in an effort to limit Americans’ ability to acquire firearms:
    The so-called “zero tolerance” or “enhanced regulatory enforcement policy” put in place under the previous administration led to a nearly six-fold increase in enforcement actions against Federal Firearms Licensees (FFL’s), many of whom are mom-and-pop shop small businesses who made innocent paperwork errors.
    Firearms manufacturers have been de-banked or denied services simply because they make guns—which allow Americans to exercise a constitutional right.
    DEFENDING OUR CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHT TO KEEP AND BEAR ARMS: President Trump is standing up for our constitutional Second Amendment right to keep and bear arms, building on progress made during his first term:
    President Trump removed the United States from the United Nations (UN) misguided Arms Trade Treaty to protect Americans from the threat of global regulations of conventional firearms.
    President Trump’s Department of Justice narrowed the definition of “fugitive from justice” to more specific guidelines when determining who is prohibited from buying a gun.
    During the pandemic, President Trump designated the firearms industry “essential” in order to protect gun stores, shooting ranges, and ammunition dealers from being shut down.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Establishes White House Faith Office

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    ESTABLISHING A FAITH OFFICE: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order to establish the White House Faith Office.
    The White House Faith Office will empower faith-based entities, community organizations, and houses of worship to better serve families and communities.
    The Office will be housed in the Domestic Policy Council and will consult with experts within the faith community and make recommendations to the President regarding changes to policies, programs, and practices to better align with the American values.
    The Office will coordinate with agencies on religious liberty training and on identifying and promoting grant opportunities for non-profit faith-based entities, community organizations, and houses of worship.  
    The Office will work in collaboration with the Attorney General to identify failures to enforce constitutional and Federal statutory protections for religious liberty.
    DEFENDING RELIGIOUS LIBERTY: President Trump is committed to protecting the liberty and freedom of our religious communities, organizations, and students.
    In his first week, President Trump pardoned Christians and pro-life activists who were persecuted by the weaponized Biden Administration for praying and peacefully living out their faith.
    President Trump reinstated service members forced out of the military over the COVID-19 vaccine mandate, including those discharged over their religious objections to the vaccine.
    Last week, President Trump signed executive actions to ensure Federal overreach and taxpayer dollars will no longer force individuals to violate their commitment to life.
    Yesterday, President Trump signed an Executive Order establishing a task force to eradicate anti-Christian bias.
    PROMISES MADE, PROMISES KEPT: These actions build on President Trump’s longstanding commitment to safeguarding the fundamental right to religious freedom, as evidenced by his first term.
    In 2017, President Trump stopped the Johnson Amendment from interfering with pastors’ rights to speak their minds.
    In 2018, President Trump established the Faith and Opportunity Initiative which recognized and promoted the essential contributions of faith-based organizations.
    In 2018, President Trump reversed the Obama-era policy that prevented the government from providing disaster relief to religious organizations.
    In 2019, President Trump hosted a Global Call to Protect Religious Freedom event at the United Nations and called on the international community and business leaders to work to protect religious freedom around the world.
    In 2020, President Trump issued new guidance to protect religious liberty and expression in public schools.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: St Lukes Symphony on the Waterfront-Devonport

    Source: Australia Government Ministerial Statements

    Thank you first of all to Dave Gough for the welcome to country in a tradition that is ancient as it is generous. Thank you very much for that earlier today. Thank you to the mayor Alison Jarmon who suggested that I come, and to my friend Senator Anne Urquhart who demanded that I be here. And now that I’m here I can see what the vision here in the north west is, you wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.

    Can I say when it comes to regional arts in Australia, right now, right here is the national capital of regional arts. No one else is doing it better than you are, no one. And that’s why we’ve got Kitty Taylor, one of your own on the board, that manages Creative Australia. That’s why if you go to the Paranaple just around the corner there and you watch the screen, about every half hour a work will come up, a visual work [inaudible] using some colonial paintings and putting images over the top of them. That work, is part of the National Gallery of Australia and when we were putting together the cultural policy we realised in our National Gallery in Canberra, at any point in time, 98 per cent of the work is in storage. And so we said, well hang on, if it’s the national collection, it ought to belong to the nation and so that work now, instead of being in storage being seen by no one, it’s in Devonport, around the corner on the screen of the Paranaple there, being seen by the community and being given life because the National Collection should belong to the entire nation, not just to Canberra.

    Can I finally just say how wonderful it is to have an event like this, where one of Australia’s greatest orchestras is available whether or not you’re somebody who walks inside a concert hall. Where you can hear one of Australia’s greatest orchestras by turning up to an event with your neighbours; where you can hear some of the greatest music ever written including some work that’s been composed just for now; that we can celebrate that as a community. The arts at its best is making sure that what’s inside galleries and what’s in concert halls, and what’s in theatres, and what’s in library, also reaches into every single part of the community.  Because our music should be the soundtrack to life in Australia and our arts should inspire everything that we do, and art and great music should not only be available based on whether or not you can afford it. It should be there, and celebrated by every single one of us. And it’s a pleasure to be doing exactly that  with you here tonight. Thank you.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy On ABC’s This Week: This Is A Red Alert Moment— Our Democracy Is At Risk

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    February 09, 2025

    [embedded content]
    WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Sunday joined ABC’s This Week with Martha Raddatz to sound the alarm on Donald Trump’s corrupt power grab and the billionaire takeover of the U.S. government. Murphy slammed Trump’s move to eliminate USAID and vowed to keep fighting to protect American democracy.
    “I think this is the most serious constitutional crisis the country has faced, certainly since Watergate,” said Murphy. “The President is attempting to seize control of power, and for corrupt purposes. The President wants to be able to decide how and where money is spent so that he can reward his political friends, he can punish his political enemies—that is the evisceration of democracy. You stand that next to the wholesale endorsement of political violence with the pardons given to every single January 6th rioter— including the most violent, who beat police officers over the head with baseball bats— and you could see what he’s trying to do here. He is trying to crush his opposition by making them afraid of losing federal funding, by making them afraid of physical violence. So yes, this is a red alert moment when this entire country has to understand that our democracy is at risk—and for what? The billionaire takeover of government.”
    Murphy blasted Trump’s plan to cut USAID, calling it a gift to billionaires and a threat to global stability: “The military tells us that if you eliminate foreign aid, you will have to double the number of bullets you buy them. Why? Because we prevent conflict around the world through things like economic development and conflict resolution. I think the American public are learning about the scale of this corruption, how our foreign policy is being turned over to billionaires like Elon Musk to help them financially. As the American people are learning how much influence the billionaires have, how corrupt our policy has become, they are turning against this handover of government to the very few economic elites.”
    He continued: “Most of what USAID is doing is employing Americans, and often foreign nationals, to try to prevent instability and conflict. They are also working to try to reduce the reasons why young people join terrorist groups overseas. They are chasing Chinese and Russian influence. I mean, listen. The major question of the next 50 years is who will control the piping of the international economy: the United States or China? It’s USAID, not the U.S. military, that is working to try to blunt Chinese influence, so it’s ultimately American and European rules that control the global economy, not Chinese rules. So USAID is out there protecting American jobs and American interests, and if you roll up USAID, it is just a massive gift to China in particular, and that is very bad for U.S. national security interests, very bad for the U.S. economy and U.S. workers.”
    Murphy argued that Democrats shouldn’t shy away from forcefully defending our democracy: “I’m not going to calm down. I had 800 people at a rally with 24 hours’ notice in Connecticut this last weekend. This is a fundamental corruption. And democracies don’t last forever, and what those who are trying to destroy democracies want is for everyone to stay quiet, for everyone to believe that the moment isn’t urgent. They want to use violence and the threat of violence and the threat of arrest to keep the opposition at home. We are not going to do this. We see this as a crisis of epic proportions. We are watching the billionaires try to steal government from the people, and I think the broad cross-section of the American public, as you have seen in the last week, is going to rise up and say, enough.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Activist News – Winston Peters refusal to join 79 countries to protect the International Criminal Court puts New Zealand firmly in Trump’s minority, lawless, hard-right camp – PSNA

    Source: Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa

     

    Winston Peters’ refusal to join other 79 countries trying to protect the International Criminal Court after vicious attacks and sanctions issued by US President Trump is unconscionable.

     

    “Endless New Zealand politicians, including the present government, have pointed to our support for a rules-based international system” says PSNA National Chair John Minto. “The ICC is a key part of that system but Winston Peters has jettisoned this policy in favour of a US-First approach; rather than a New Zealand-First approach”

     

    In fact, we can find no evidence that Peters has ever uttered a word of real criticism of the US in his entire political career.

     

    Within the past two weeks Winston Peters has

     

    • Openly welcomed Israeli soldiers and Israeli war criminals coming into New Zealand, with no questions asked, for “rest and recreation” from their genocide in Gaza
    • Refused to condemn Trump’s racist plans for the ethnic cleansing of Palestinians from Gaza so his son-in-law can turn it into a “Riviera of the Middle East’.  This is an intended international crime of epic proportion, and now
    • Refused to join 79 countries supporting the International Criminal Court against Trump’s actions

     

    “The countries we are refusing to join in criticising Trump include two other Five Eyes countries, the UK and Canada, as well as Germany, France, Ireland, Switzerland, Sweden, Netherlands, Greece, Norway, Portugal, Spain etc”

     

    “Winston Peters has put New Zealand in the hard-right international minority extremist camp with Trump” says PSNA National Chair John Minto. “This is creepy and cowardly complicity with a state whose values we do not share.”

     

    “Winston Peters’ ministry has been at great pains over the past year to state how much our government supports the work of the ICC. The MFAT website states “We have also been clear in our support of the International Criminal Court’s mandate in Palestine”

     

    “But when the ICC issues arrest warrants against Israeli leaders for war crimes and crimes against humanity, our government goes completely silent.”

     

    “Will Winston Peters now copy his master and revoke an immigration ban on 33 Israeli settlers responsible for leading pogroms against Palestinian communities in the Occupied West Bank, as Trump did a few days ago?”

     

    “US policy towards Palestine underlines the case for New Zealand to leave the Five Eyes US international spy network.”

     

    “An independent foreign policy means making our own decisions and working with the great majority of like-minded countries who support international institutions, such as the ICC and the International Court of Justice.”

     

    “Instead, we have a foreign minister who is in the US pocket and blindly working for the interests of Trump and his robber barons.”

     

    John Minto

    National Chair

    Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Federated Farmers proposes seven changes to lighten ratepayer burden

    Source: Federated Farmers

    After rampant rates rises across the country last year, Federated Farmers is calling for the Government to make seven key changes to restore confidence in local decision-making.
    “The funding model for our councils is broken,” Sandra Faulkner, Federated Farmers local government spokesperson, says.
    “Rage about rates increases will feature strongly when voters have their say in council elections this October, but the Government should also do more to rein in cost pressures.
    “Central governments over the years have pointed the finger at council excesses and failings but part of the solution here is to fix faulty legislation and government policy.”
    It’s clear that change is needed to turn back the tide on massive rates increases, Faulkner says.
    “Fewer people are voting in local body elections, and rates jumped an average 15% this year alone, which has really hurt all Kiwis, including rural families.
    “Meanwhile, central government has chipped away at the autonomy of local government with an ever-increasing list of national directions and requirements.”
    Two of Federated Farmers’ seven recommendations call on the Government to surrender some of its tax take in favour of councils.
    “We say the lion’s share of the cost of repairing and renewing local roads should fall on road users, not property owners,” Faulkner says.
    Outside of the state highway network, councils are responsible for maintaining roads and bridges.
    On average, councils get 53% of this cost via a NZ Transport Agency/Waka Kotahi Funding Assistance Rate (FAR), paid from fuel taxes and Road User Charges. The rest comes from ratepayers.
    “Property value rates are a poor way to fund roads for the same reason as general taxation: it does not tie those who use roads with those who pay for roads,” Faulkner says.
    “The system also lacks logic. In areas with a lot of tourism or freight, for example, locals are left paying for roading networks that serve a wider regional or national purpose.”
    Because ratepayers baulk at rising road costs, councils feel obliged to scale back renewal and maintenance on roads that are a lifeline for rural families and businesses.
    “So, we get deteriorating tarseal, potholes and even road closures in rural areas,” Faulkner says.
    Federated Farmers argues the FAR rate should be lifted to an average 90%.
    Another change that would reduce council funding pressure is to make Crown land rateable.
    Currently, government land is exempt from local authority rates, apart from targeted rates and charges for utilities.
    In 2023/24, Auckland Council estimated the Government was exempt from paying a total of $36.5 million in rates that year – worth $506.40 per household.
    Federated Farmers also seeks legislation that focuses local government on providing necessary infrastructure, local public services and regulation.
    “We want councils to stick to core services,” Faulkner says.
    “That requires withdrawal of the controversial ‘four well-beings’ mandate – social, economic, environmental, and cultural – which has led to councils drifting into areas outside their areas of expertise, often duplicating work already handled by central government.”
    Faulkner says there’s always debate on where to draw the line on what is a legitimate ‘local public service’.
    “There should be room for fostering a sense of community through events such as celebrating Matariki, or investing in social infrastructure such as libraries, halls and swimming pools.
    “But there should be restraint on councils from destroying their balance sheets through risky investments beyond their core purpose – things like convention centres and sports stadiums.
    “We’re proposing that a referendum must be held before spending is committed on commercial facilities and ventures costing more than $500 per resident.”
    New Zealand is at a crossroads with its 78 councils, Faulkner says.
    “We can either continue to underfund big challenges on water, transport and housing, or we can look for new ways to restore confidence in a refocused and resourced local government.”
    See Federated Farmers’ seven recommendations in its ‘Restoring confidence in local decision-making’ report – Restoring confidence

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General – on the formation of a new Government in Lebanon

    Source: United Nations – English

    he Secretary-General welcomes the formation of a new government under the leadership of Prime Minister Nawaf Salam. The United Nations looks forward to working in close partnership with the new government on its priorities, including the consolidation of the cessation of hostilities and the full implementation of resolution 1701 (2006), while supporting all efforts to address the pressing needs and aspirations of Lebanon’s population, including through recovery and reconstruction and the implementation of a comprehensive, inclusive and sustainable reform agenda.

    The United Nations reiterates its commitment to support Lebanon’s territorial integrity, sovereignty, and political independence in accordance with the Taif Accords and the Baabda declaration, and the effective implementation of Security Council resolutions 1701 (2006), 1559 (2004) and other relevant resolutions which remain essential to the stability of Lebanon and the region.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Craven silence on ICC conveys consent

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    New Zealand has long been a member of the International Criminal Court, which impartially prosecutes serious war criminals for atrocities.

    “The United States of America is attacking the ICC with sanctions and undermining its important and respected role as a prosecutor of war criminals,” Labour foreign affairs spokesperson David Parker said.

    “It is one thing for the USA not to participate in the ICC. To go further and introduce sanctions to hinder the ability of the ICC doing its work for other countries is plainly wrong.

    “In recent days, 79 countries have signed a statement condemning this. Those countries include Switzerland, Canada, France and Germany – countries we normally work closely with. New Zealand was notably absent.

    “It is understandable that New Zealand does not want to criticise every decision made by President Trump.

    “But our government won’t even speak up in the company of 79 others when an institution we are part of is threatened and undermined.

    “Silence conveys consent.

    “New Zealand’s reputation for being fair and principled is built on decades of important decisions like these – across successive governments.

    “In its efforts to appease the new USA administration, New Zealand should not cravenly abandon its principles,” David Parker said.

    Stay in the loop by signing up to our mailing list and following us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General – on the formation of a new Government in Lebanon

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    The Secretary-General welcomes the formation of a new government under the leadership of Prime Minister Nawaf Salam. The United Nations looks forward to working in close partnership with the new government on its priorities, including the consolidation of the cessation of hostilities and the full implementation of resolution 1701 (2006), while supporting all efforts to address the pressing needs and aspirations of Lebanon’s population, including through recovery and reconstruction and the implementation of a comprehensive, inclusive and sustainable reform agenda.

    The United Nations reiterates its commitment to support Lebanon’s territorial integrity, sovereignty, and political independence in accordance with the Taif Accords and the Baabda declaration, and the effective implementation of Security Council resolutions 1701 (2006), 1559 (2004) and other relevant resolutions which remain essential to the stability of Lebanon and the region.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Transcript: Press Briefing on Public Education

    Source: US State of New York

    Earlier today, Governor Kathy Hochul joined Senator Gillibrand for a press briefing on public education.

    AUDIO: The Governor’s remarks are available in audio form here.

    PHOTOS: The Governor’s Flickr page will post photos of the event here.

    A rush transcript of the Governor’s remarks is available below:

    Very proud to be standing here today, joining our great Senator, Kirsten Gillibrand, one of the greatest champions our state has ever had fighting for children and families, our teachers, and fighting for the highest quality education we can deliver. So thank you for putting a spotlight on this.

    And you perfectly outlined the collateral damage that would ensue if these policies were to go into effect. We’re also very honored to have Randi Weingarten as a national spokesperson on behalf of teachers and children and families with us here today. We’ll be hearing from her.

    I will just tell you the impact on the State of New York. This is $5.5 billion that the State receives annually from the Department of Education. $3.2 billion goes directly into our budget, $2.3 billion goes to localities. If that money is jeopardized, what I can tell you will happen, localities lose that money, they will have to raise taxes. For outside the City, your largest part of your local property tax bill is your school taxes. If that money evaporates from the federal government, where are they going to go? This is going to hit homeowners and businesses, and I want them to be aware of this consequence.

    It also could deny so many people that education — the Pell Grant that makes a difference. I just got off the phone with Chancellor John King, who is deeply concerned of what this will do to our students trying to get an education here in the State of New York. But if you’re an employer, this is going to affect the caliber of your workforce if young people don’t get a great K-12 education and have an opportunity for higher education as well.

    And for people with disabilities, children with disabilities — my God, these are our most vulnerable — they deserve the support systems they have from loving, caring professionals who take care of them today. And we really want kids to go hungry in schools if you touch the school nutrition program? I’m working hard in the State of New York to make sure that no child goes hungry; no little child’s stomach is growling when they’re supposed to be paying attention to their teacher. So the State of New York will provide assistance for free breakfasts and lunches for children, but we’re supported by the federal government to do that.

    So I will close with this, I want to know where New York State Republican members of Congress are on this issue. Where are you? Where are you? You are elected to represent the people who are going to be adversely affected, especially our children. And if you can’t speak up for them, then get out of your job and go do something else. We need your help.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ‘America First’ trade policy is pushing economic self-sufficiency – but history shows this is harder than it seems

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Garritt C. Van Dyk, Senior Lecturer in History, University of Waikato

    The day he took office for his second term, United States President Donald J. Trump unveiled his “America First” trade policy, including tariffs on imported goods from Mexico, Canada (both of which have since been paused) and China.

    President Trump’s reasoning for the tariffs included revitalising the American economy by bringing manufacturing and business back within US borders. Essentially, pushing the country towards greater self-sufficiency.

    Considering the cost of the tariffs, a number of countries have begun to question their dependence on foreign trade. But there are very clear hurdles including access to precious metals and raw materials.

    In a global market that relies on international trade, is it possible to be totally self-sufficient?

    The history of self-seficiency

    The economic term for self-sufficiency is “autarky”, borrowed from the ancient Greek word autarkeia, meaning “to suffice”. Ideally, this meant that a state could supply the needs of its people without foreign trade. Autarky, in its purest form, isolates the state from foreign economic, political and cultural influence.

    There are numerous historical examples of attempts to achieve complete economic autonomy.

    In 17th century Japan the Tokugawa Shogunate closed the borders to foreigners and prohibited Japanese from travelling abroad.

    There was limited private trade with China through Nagasaki and with Europe through Dutch merchants. They were confined to an artificial island, Deshima, off Nagasaki, to ensure their isolation. These restrictions remained for 265 years, until the threat of US gunboats forced Japan to sign a trade treaty in 1854.

    Self-sufficiency was also a goal of Benito Mussolini’s fascist dictatorship, aiming to lift Italy’s post-war economy in the 1920s. One initiative was the “Battle for Wheat”, an attempt to produce enough wheat to meet domestic demand and “free the Italian people from the slavery of foreign bread”.

    Italy imported more than one third of the flour needed to make bread and pasta, the two main foodstuffs. Pasta was targeted as a “backwards” food to promote consumption of local rice and reduce agricultural imports.

    Tariffs were levied on all imported goods in 1931. These were raised again in 1935 after sanctions were imposed on Italy following the invasion of Ethiopia. Mussolini declared in 1935 that Italy “would manage alone”.

    While imports of food, machinery and raw materials dropped, oil imports increased. Mussolini recognised the limits of autarky in 1934:

    Let us not delude ourselves about autarky. All the modern nations, thanks to the prodigious development of the sciences, can move towards a partial autarky. But we, until the contrary is proven, will have to import liquid combustibles.

    In response to Donald Trump’s America First policy, countries increasingly have to consider certain levels of self-sufficiency.
    Sven Hansche/Shutterstock

    A modern push to self-sufficiency

    Even with reduced reliance on fossil fuels, the scarcity of some natural resources, such as rare earth minerals, still poses a challenge to achieving autarky.

    Even the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea), a centrally planned economy subject to United Nations Security Council sanctions for its nuclear and ballistic missile testing since 2006, is not completely self-sufficient.

    China is North Korea’s largest trading partner, with plastics, tobacco, soybean oil, rubber tires and packaged medicines as the top imports. The economic isolation of North Korea also makes it more vulnerable to global price fluctuations, as the movements are magnified due to the limited number of trading partners.

    Supply chain disruptions were highlighted during the pandemic, continued in 2021 with shortages in microchips, followed by Russia’s war in Ukraine.

    Some nations, such as the US and the United Kingdom, have responded to this logistical risk by shifting to local production, or reshoring, of certain critical industries, such as semiconductors and pharmaceuticals.

    This inward turn requires significant investment and lead time and may involve higher local energy and labour costs, or additional environmental restrictions. For industries that involve national security or essential goods, reducing dependence on potential adversaries may be necessary. But for other sectors the higher costs will create inflationary pressure.

    There are also implicit costs in cutting economic ties with the outside world. Foreign investment is reduced and innovation lags as there are fewer incentives for the cross-border flow of ideas.

    Embracing friendshoring

    As the push for self-reliance increases, vulnerable countries will need new strategies to remain resilient.

    Identifying alternative supply chain relationships and increasing inventory stockpiles in advance will minimise disruptions.

    Another tactic is “friendshoring” – relocating supply chains to countries where the risk of disruption from political chaos is low.

    It is likely that geopolitical instability will increase and global fragmentation will continue. While straightforward autarky may not be possible, countries will need to consider how to survive the political and economic volatility of the next four years – and beyond.

    Garritt C. Van Dyk 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. ‘America First’ trade policy is pushing economic self-sufficiency – but history shows this is harder than it seems – https://theconversation.com/america-first-trade-policy-is-pushing-economic-self-sufficiency-but-history-shows-this-is-harder-than-it-seems-248530

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Grampians National Park is still burning – here’s what we can expect will survive and recover

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John White, Associate Professor in Wildlife and Conservation Biology, Deakin University

    Fire broke out in the Grampians National Park (Gariwerd) in December and raged for weeks. Then lightning strikes ignited fresh blazes late last month, which merged to form a mega-fire that’s not out yet.

    This 168,000-hectare reserve, about 200km west of Melbourne, is a significant ecological and cultural landscape. Its ancient sandstone mountains and valleys maintain eucalypt woodlands and heathlands that support a rich diversity of plants and animals, making it a key conservation asset in Victoria.

    Since 2008, our team has been monitoring mammal species annually in the Grampians. This long-term effort has allowed us to learn how species respond to wildfires, droughts and floods.

    We commenced our research just two years after big fires swept through the park in 2006. We also witnessed the changes following more fires in 2013 and 2014.

    So while many animals have lost much of their habitat to fire this summer, we know recovery is possible. But some may need help to cope with challenges ahead.

    A terrible summer as multiple fires rage

    The massive December wildfire in the park’s east burned for weeks, forcing evacuations in towns such as Halls Gap, and upending Christmas for many residents. By early January, that fire was contained – but only after burning about 76,000 hectares of the park and surrounding areas.

    Then, on January 27, lightning strikes in the west ignited four fires that eventually merged, burning through the entire Victoria Range and some rural properties.

    The full extent of damage is not yet known. But it’s already clear the fires have been devastating. They burned much of the same areas affected by the 2006 wildfires in the east and 2013 fires in the west, as well as long-unburned areas.

    Combined, fires this big have not been observed in this landscape in the past 50 years.

    The extent of this summer’s wildfires in the Grampians is almost as big as fires in 2006 and 2013 put together.
    John White, using data from Luke Lupone at Dekain University and VicEmergency

    What is the extent of the damage to the environment?

    It’s difficult to determine how much of the park has burned so far this summer, because the shaded area on the state emergency map extends beyond the park’s borders. But a rough, conservative estimate suggests at least 110,000 hectares of the 168,000 hectare park has burned since December. This is a deeply troubling scenario.

    The Grampians is an isolated landscape – an “island” of native vegetation surrounded by a sea of agricultural land. So animals can’t easily migrate from other parts of Victoria to repopulate the area. Recovery largely depends on the landscape’s own ability to regenerate after fire.

    Populations of small carnivorous marsupials often peak in areas that haven’t burned for 10–20 years.

    So for many species, most of their habitat has been lost to fire. This includes endangered mammals such as the smoky mouse, heath mouse, brush-tailed rock wallaby, southern brown bandicoot and long-nosed potoroo. These species in particular will need considerable help for the next few years.

    Some of the native small mammals from the Grampians landscape. Clockwise from top left: yellow-footed antechinus, southern brown bandicoot, agile antechinus (male), swamp rat, long-nosed potoroo, heath mouse.
    John White

    Recovery will happen over time

    Many animals likely perished in the blaze and more will die in coming months.

    Unfortunately, most native small mammals struggle to survive in freshly burned habitats. Fire depletes their food sources and strips away the vegetation that provides cover and protection from predators.

    But there is hope. Our previous research shows some animals do survive. These survivors can eventually breed, sparking the slow recovery of the landscape and helping reestablish populations over the next decade or two.

    The rate of recovery will be driven by rainfall. So if drought hits, recovery will be slow. But if we have wet years, recovery will accelerate.

    Many native plants in the national park are more resilient to fire than the animals, so recover faster. Native heathland plants such as Australian grass trees have evolved in the presence of fire and often reshoot pretty quickly. Seeds also germinate after fires. But it takes a few years after the plants come back before many native animal species fully recover.

    So the first few years after fire are usually tough for native species. From a conservation perspective this is manageable in a patchy landscape — where some areas burned recently and others haven’t burned in decades. However, the current situation is different. This year, most of the landscape burned and almost no long-unburned habitat remains.

    A native grass tree reshoots after wildfire.
    John White

    What are the threats?

    The main challenge to recovery in the coming months and years is introduced species, especially foxes and cats. Foxes are particularly problematic, because they are drawn to recently burned areas where hunting is much easier.

    To give native mammals a fighting chance, it is essential to ramp up fox management efforts for at least the next year. This will allow surviving native mammals time to recover and for vegetation to regrow, providing necessary cover.

    In addition, Parks Victoria and the Victorian Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action are erecting artificial shelters in ecologically sensitive areas. These provide temporary refuge for animals, giving them a better chance to evade predators.

    What about the role of climate change?

    In recent decades, the Grampians have experienced a general decline in rainfall, coupled with a significant increase in wildfires since the early 2000s.

    We’re now witnessing a cycle where large fires are followed by droughts, and then wet periods such as the recent La Niña years.

    During these wetter periods, vegetation flourishes. But when the inevitable dry spells return, that vegetation dries out, creating ideal conditions for wildfires. So the good years, while offering relief to the landscape, are setting the stage for the next fire. This leaves the landscape constantly vulnerable.

    What can people do to help?

    Fire is a natural process – albeit one increasingly driven by climate change. As climate change worsens, landscapes like the Grampians will face more frequent, large wildfires.

    We should approach our natural landscapes with care, acknowledging climate change is fundamentally altering how these ecosystems function.

    The best action we can take is to pressure governments to seriously address climate change and implement meaningful solutions.

    John White receives funding from Parks Victoria to support his long-term mammal research in the Grampians,

    – ref. Grampians National Park is still burning – here’s what we can expect will survive and recover – https://theconversation.com/grampians-national-park-is-still-burning-heres-what-we-can-expect-will-survive-and-recover-249147

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Looking for a sperm donor online? 4 things to think about first

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Neera Bhatia, Associate Professor in Law (Health Law), Deakin University

    Tim Samuel/Pexels

    People looking for a sperm donor can go to a fertility clinic, ask a friend to donate or look for a donor online, including on an app or via social media.

    Women in same-sex relationships, single women and others are choosing the online option for a number of reasons.

    But this brings with it various challenges and risks. Here’s what to know first.

    It’s a popular choice

    Up to 4,000 children are estimated to have been born over the past ten years via one Australian sperm donation website alone.

    In just 2022, sperm sourced via one private Facebook group reportedly resulted in 692 births.

    Some donors and recipients choose to use online platforms because they want to form connections and friendships with the other party early on. In some cases, donors choose to remain in the lives of the recipient and any child born from their donation.

    But some sperm donors go online to remain anonymous, an option not usually possible when donating through a fertility clinic.

    Some people might use online sperm donation because the cost of accessing donor sperm at fertility clinics is too high in Australia. Some clinics charge a sperm donation management fee of about A$2,000. This allows people to access information about the donors they can choose from. Then there is the cost of insemination and of the sperm itself, which is about $2,500 out-of-pocket per cycle. Online sperm donation in Australia tends to be altruistic and does not cost anything.

    People in rural or regional areas may live far from fertility clinics, making access challenging.

    Then there’s often a shortage of donor sperm at clinics. In particular, there’s a lack of ethnic and cultural diversity in donors.

    Whatever the reason for seeking sperm online, here are some issues to consider first.

    1. Medical unknowns

    Sperm donors at fertility clinics undergo medical, physical and psychological screening to reduce the risk of transmitting disease to a child.

    However, online sperm donors may provide people with unscreened sperm that might be carrying sexually transmitted infections or inheritable genetic conditions.

    This puts the recipient and the potential child at risk because of the lack of medical information about the donor.

    Sperm donors in fertility clinics undergo genetic testing.
    New Africa/Shutterstock

    2. Psychological, personal, social risks

    People might be placed at risk when they agree to meet a potential online sperm donor in person. There have been reported cases where potential donors have pressured people into natural insemination (sexual intercourse) once they meet. This is despite donors initially agreeing to provide sperm for home insemination (using a syringe to inject the donor sperm into the vagina).

    These safety and exploitation concerns are especially pertinent in cases of same-sex female couples and people who are same-sex attracted who might feel coerced or compelled to have sexual intercourse with a man to try to conceive a child.

    In fertility clinics, state laws limit the number of individuals or families that can use a single donor’s sperm (from five to ten families depending on the state).

    The nature of online sperm donation means there are no records kept about the number of children a donor contributes to conceiving. With no formal record keeping, one donor could potentially provide sperm to hundreds of people. This increases the chances of donor-conceived siblings unknowingly having children together later in life.

    There might be cases where donors do not tell the truth about their identity or background, as happened in a case in Japan when a donor allegedly lied about his identity and education.

    There might also be psychological harm when an agreement has been made about contact between the parties and that agreement is later disputed or disregarded.

    3. Legally, it’s a grey area

    A man who donates sperm to a fertility clinic has no legal rights or obligations to a child born as a result of this donation in Australia.

    However, conceiving a child using informally donated sperm can be legally precarious. We are not aware of any reported cases in Australia of legal disputes about parentage that have involved online sperm donation. However, if the practice continues to grow, the courts may need to intervene if a donor is seeking to exercise some rights relating to the donor-conceived child against the mother’s wishes.

    There was, however, a 2019 case that relates to sperm donation by a friend. Here, the High Court ruled a man who donated sperm informally to his friend was deemed the legal parent of a child. This resulted in the mother and her same-sex partner being prevented from relocating to New Zealand with the child and their sibling.

    As each potential case will depend on its own set of unique circumstances, it’s best to take legal advice first.

    4. What’s best for the child?

    Many donor-conceived people want information about, and contact with, their donor. A lack of information, including medical information, can contribute to psychological, medical and social harms.

    So people should carefully consider how this arrangement might impact any child conceived. This includes their potential desire to meet any siblings conceived using the same donor’s sperm.

    A child may want to meet any siblings conceived using the same donor’s sperm.
    fizkes/Shutterstock

    Where to from here?

    The decision to have a child using donor sperm is complex. When deciding how to access donor sperm, people may benefit from speaking to an accredited fertility counsellor about their options.

    This may include accessing donor sperm through a fertility clinic, which are strictly regulated and licensed, and need to comply with state laws and ethical guidelines.

    While accessing donor sperm through a regulated fertility clinic may be more costly and time-consuming, it is also markedly safer than online sperm donation.

    However, some people may not want to access donor sperm through a fertility clinic, or this might not meet their needs. We need to understand why so we can try to do something about it.

    If a person decides to access donor sperm online, they should have open and honest discussions with the potential donor about:

    • their medical history

    • what role they envisage in the future life of a child born using their sperm

    • how all parties can keep records and contact information.

    Before seeing a potential donor in person, they should also tell a family member, close friend or someone they can confide in about the meeting to ensure they are safe.

    Taking these measures may help make accessing donor sperm online a positive experience for all involved.

    Neera Bhatia receives funding from the UK Arts and Humanities Research Council for an unrelated project.

    Catherine Mills has received industry research funding from Monash IVF, Ferring Pharmaceutical and Illumina. She is a bioethics consultant for VitroLife. She has received Australian government research funding from the ARC, NHMRC and MRFF. She does not receive private remuneration from any industry body.

    Giselle Newton is a donor-conceived woman and is a member of Donor Conceived Australia.

    Molly Johnston has received research funding from Monash IVF Group and Ferring Pharmaceuticals, and honoraria and travel fees from Gedeon Richter.

    Karin Hammarberg 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. Looking for a sperm donor online? 4 things to think about first – https://theconversation.com/looking-for-a-sperm-donor-online-4-things-to-think-about-first-246888

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairwoman McClain and Rep. Pfluger Statement on Passage of the Protecting American Energy Production Act

    Source: US House of Representatives Republicans

    The following text contains opinion that is not, or not necessarily, that of MIL-OSI –

    Chairwoman McClain and Rep. Pfluger Statement on Passage of the Protecting American Energy Production Act

    Washington, February 7, 2025

    WASHINGTON – House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) and Republican Study Committee Chairman August Pfluger (TX-11) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Protecting American Energy Production Act. H.R. 26, which passed the House by a vote of 226-188, would prohibit any President from unilaterally halting hydraulic fracturing.

    “The Biden administration and extreme Democrats did everything in their power to destroy domestic American energy production and increase costs,” said Chairwoman McClain. “On November 5th, Americans said they were tired of that Green New Deal, anti-energy agenda and are ready for change. House Republicans are working to unleash America’s energy potential, utilize our resources to restore America’s energy dominance, and ultimately lower energy costs for the American people. I applaud Rep. August Pfluger for this legislation which will accomplish these goals.”

    “The Biden Administration spent the last four years attacking the American energy industry – going as far as attempting to shut it down by banning almost all new U.S. offshore drilling projects on their way out of office,” said Rep. Pfluger. This is why the first piece of legislation I introduced in the 119th Congress was the Protecting American Energy Production Act, and I am thrilled to see its passage through the House today. This legislation will protect the American energy industry and its consumers from the federal government by preventing any federal moratorium on the use of hydraulic fracturing. I am blessed to represent America’s most prolific oil and gas producing region and am committed to unleashing energy in the Permian Basin this Congress.”
     

    MIL OSI USA News –