NewzIntel.com

Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI Africa: US-Africa relations under Biden: a mismatch between talk and action

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Christopher Isike, Director, African Centre for the Study of the United States, University of Pretoria

    In his first year in office, US president Joe Biden committed to resetting US-Africa relations based on a doctrine of equal partnership.

    He sent his secretary of state, Antony Blinken, to Kenya, Côte d’Ivoire and Nigeria. The visit was used to outline the administration’s policy outlook towards Africa. It laid the ground for the official US-Africa policy commitment that Blinken launched the following year in South Africa.

    Since then, there have been high level engagements between the US and African countries to deepen ties. They included visits by top cabinet members of the administration: vice-president Kamala Harris, secretary of defence Lloyd Austin and treasury secretary Janet Yellen. First lady Jill Biden also came.

    Biden hosted a well attended US-Africa Leaders Summit in Washington DC in December 2022. Kenyan president William Ruto paid a state visit to the White House in May.

    Yet our view, which is based on years of studying and writing on US and Africa relations, is that the Biden administration has not fulfilled its commitment to resetting US-Africa relations based on an equal partnership. It hasn’t recognised Africa’s growing agency in international affairs.

    We argue that there has been a mismatch between the rhetoric and practice of an equal partnership. For example, African leaders or the African Union were not consulted about the agenda of the 2022 US-Africa Leaders Summit. This was also the case with the US’s Africa strategy.

    This reflects the traditional paternalistic relationship of the US with Africa.

    Read more: Joe Biden in Africa: US president has ignored the continent for his entire term — why he’s visiting Angola

    Biden is due to visit Angola in December – his only African visit as president. A much more encouraging message of equal partnership would have been delivered if the US-Africa Leaders Summit, for example, had been held at the African Union headquarters in Ethiopia. Biden would have then been able to engage with African leaders in the continent early in his term.

    A full diary of engagements

    There are a number of positive indicators of Biden’s commitment to reset relations with Africa.

    August 2022: The first tangible step was through the US Strategy Toward Sub-Saharan Africa. This presented a shift in emphasis from great power politics (vis-a-vis China and Russia in Africa) and Trump’s America First diplomacy, to one of mutual respect and partnership (at least on paper) under Biden.

    Priorities included fostering open societies, delivering democratic and security dividends, advancing pandemic recovery and economic opportunity, and supporting the climate agenda.

    December 2022: The US-Africa Leaders Summit in Washington DC was attended by 49 African leaders, three months after the release of the Africa strategy. The focus was on

    strengthening ties with African partners based on principles of mutual respect and shared interests and values.

    Biden pledged US$55 billion in investments until 2025 to advance goals that aligned with shared priorities. The US is said to have allocated 80% of said funds.

    The US used the summit to formally announce its support for the African Union’s membership of the G20. This was realised when the AU officially joined the G20 as a permanent member in 2023.

    November 2023: Biden hosted Angolan president João Lourenço at the White House on an official visit. They discussed cooperation on the economy, security, energy, transport, telecommunications, agriculture and outer space.

    May 2024: Kenyan president William Ruto’s state visit was the first by an African leader in more than 15 years.

    September 2024: US ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield announced US support for Africa getting two permanent seats on the UN security council.

    Finally, Biden’s visit to Angola, set for the first week in December would be the first by a US president since 2015.

    What’s gone wrong

    It’s possible to see serious flaws in the US approach towards Africa set against the expectation of an equal partnership.

    Firstly, the US has attempted to undermine African agency through its bid to pressure African countries to condemn Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Many African countries chose non-alignment.

    Secondly, the US championing two seats for Africa on the security council looks commendable on the surface. But the lack of veto power perpetuates power imbalances between Africa and the current permanent security council members – the US, France, the UK, Russia and China.

    US vice-president Kamala Harris visited Zambian president Hakainde Hichilema in 2023. Salim Dawood/AFP via Getty Images.

    The question again is how equal the partnership is if Africa will be a junior member of the security council.

    Thirdly, there has been a lack of joint agenda setting. African countries have made no input into US-Africa strategy or the US-Africa Leaders Summit.

    Failing to consult African leaders, institutions and civil society on the continent’s own priorities reflects the same old practice of imposing priorities on African states. It looks like a continuation of the usual passing off of American national interests as African interests.

    Fourthly, there have been challenges in implementing what’s set out in the US Strategy Toward Sub-Saharan Africa. These have included inadequate resource allocation.

    Read more: US-Africa trade deal turns 25 next year: Agoa’s winners, losers and what should come next

    Fifth, the Biden administration has used the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa) as diplomatic leverage over African countries. For example, in October 2023 it announced the removal of Uganda, Niger, Gabon and Central African Republic from the beneficiaries. Earlier, the administration removed Ethiopia, Guinea, Mali and Burkina Faso. These countries were removed from Agoa for not complying with US human rights and political demands.

    Between February and March 2024, the US Congress also considered the US-South Africa Bilateral Relations Bill, which risks South Africa’s exclusion from Agoa because of Pretoria’s position on the Israel/Palestine conflict.

    Lastly, the fact that Biden is only visiting Africa in the last days of his presidency suggests Africa is not a priority. The fact that only one African head of state has been afforded a state visit to Washington reinforces this thinking.

    If the US is serious about equal partnership, it mustn’t treat Africa as an afterthought. It must always consult African states in shaping policies that affect them and the continent.

    Ruth Kasanga, a postgraduate student in the Department of Political Sciences and Research Assistant at the African Centre for the Study of the United States, University of Pretoria, made contributions to this article.

    – US-Africa relations under Biden: a mismatch between talk and action
    – https://theconversation.com/us-africa-relations-under-biden-a-mismatch-between-talk-and-action-242307

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI: Significant Technology Upgrades Fueling Strong Growth Opportunities for U.S. Commercial Drone Market

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PALM BEACH, Fla., Oct. 31, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FN Media Group News Commentary – The commercial drone industry is witnessing rapid growth and transforming various sectors such as agriculture, delivery and logistics, and energy among others. Advancements in drone technologies have led to increased demand and utilization in industries such as filming, emergency response, construction, and real estate. Additionally, drone software solution providers and manufacturers are continuously innovating and upgrading their offerings to cater to diverse market needs. As governments establish regulatory frameworks, the integration of drones into industries is expected to accelerate. This, in turn, is likely to create lucrative opportunities for market expansion over the forecast period. A report from Grand View Research projected that the U.S. commercial drone market size is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.1% through 2030. The report said: “Furthermore, favorable legislations and rising use of commercial drones by authorities in the U.S. is expected to attract various industries to utilize drones for different processes. Similarly, government authorities across the region are constantly working on framing new regulations for the commercial applications of drones. This is attributed to increased focus on the adoption of commercial drones due to their economic potential, while prioritizing the safety and security of the country. This, in turn, is anticipated to drive the U.S. commercial drone market growth over the forecast period.” Active Tech Companies in the markets today include ZenaTech, Inc. (NASDAQ: ZENA), Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ: KTOS), AgEagle Aerial Systems Inc. (NYSE: UAVS), EHang Holdings Limited (NASDAQ: EH), Ondas Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: ONDS).

    Grand View Research continued: “Moreover, the U.S. is expected to witness a convergence of technologies, societal acceptance as well as a favorable regulatory landscape that is further expected to increase demand for commercial drones in various industries. The continuous development in drone technological capabilities and related software, their commercial applications, as well as the associated benefits, are anticipated to experience steady expansion as it offers added features and easy control to drone operators. Such type of developments by market players are expected to drive the U.S. commercial market growth. Additionally, the introduction of updated drone regulations has optimized the procedure for legally conducting commercial drone operations. The positive regulations are expected to attract entrepreneurs to use commercial drones. For instance, in the U.S., some of the significant changes in the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulation’s Part 107 update includes the removal of “section 333 exception” and relaxed standards for pilots. This change in regulations that are required for commercial operations of drones, is anticipated to drive the market growth over the forecast period.”

    ZenaTech Inc.’s (NASDAQ:ZENA) ZenaDrone Completes the First Phase of an IQ Nano Inventory Management Trial for Multinational Auto Parts Customer – ZenaTech, a technology company specializing in AI (Artificial Intelligence) drone solutions and enterprise SaaS (Software-as-a-Service) solutions, today announced that its subsidiary, ZenaDrone, has successfully completed the first phase of drone testing and 3D mapping, and is beginning the next phase of production of a paid trial for a multinational auto parts manufacturer. This production phase consists of flying automatic and fully autonomous flights of the IQ Nano drone in an inventory management application.

    Testing took place over several months at ZenaDrone’s production facility in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates (UAE) to ensure the smooth operation of the inventory scanning application. The 3D mapping took place just recently at the customer’s site consisting of scanning and mapping the warehouse area to create a 3D map that automates the drone flight path and its operations while in production.

    View video showing the IQ Nano in test flight here.

    The production phase is set to begin imminently and will consist of the IQ Nano flying and reading product and component bar codes, collecting information for verification and integration with the customer’s inventory management and accounting systems.

    “We look forward to the production phase and concluding a successful trial, proving the viability of the IQ Nano and enabling us to deliver our product to our customer. A successful trial also opens the potential to win additional business with this customer and to verifiably demonstrate IQ Nano’s utility for the benefit of attracting additional market interest. The revolutionary use of an indoor drone for productivity and cost savings value can be implemented across hundreds of warehouse facilities, turning a week-long activity like counting inventory into a day,” said CEO Shaun Passley, Ph.D. – Get the full details by visiting: https://www.financialnewsmedia.com/news-zena/

    Additional Groundbreaking ZenaTech Inc. Developments this week include:

    ZenaTech Enters the Drone Sensor and Components Market Establishing a New Taiwan Subsidiary to Win More US Defense Contracts for Its AI Drones – ZenaTech also announced it will establish a new company in Taiwan to manufacture drone sensors and components for use in the drone products produced by its subsidiary ZenaDrone. The new company, named Spider Vision Sensors Ltd., will ensure ZenaDrone’s products are compliant with the US National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), an important requirement for the company to win more business with the US Military.

    Spider Vision Sensors Ltd. will manufacture drone sensors, electronics, and components such LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), thermal, infrared, multi-spectral and hyper sensors, cameras, and PBCs (Printed Circuit Boards). Having in-house manufactured sensors and components will enable ZenaDrone to have a steady supply to fulfill customer orders and drone production needs at its Sharjah, UAE, and future Arizona-based drone manufacturing facilities. Taiwan was selected due to its size and skills as an electronics hub, and the availability of low-cost alternative components versus those from China. The new company is currently at the prototype stage, and the manufacturing facility is expected to be open in November.

    “Establishing a drone sensor and components manufacturer in Taiwan will help bring our products to market faster and removes dependencies on any Chinese made electronics. This will position us to win more US military contracts via achieving Green UAS (Uncrewed Arial Systems) and Blue UAS certifications as an approved supplier,” said CEO Shaun Passley, Ph.D. Read this full release at: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/zenatech-enters-drone-sensor-components-113000155.html

    Other recent developments in the technology industry include:

    Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ: KTOS), a Technology Company in the Defense, National Security and Global Markets, recently announced that it will publish financial results for the third quarter 2024 after the close of market on Thursday, November 7th. Management will discuss the Company’s operations and financial results in a conference call beginning at 2:00 p.m. Pacific (5:00 p.m. Eastern).

    The call will be available at www.kratosdefense.com. Participants may register for the call using this Online Form. Upon registration, all telephone participants will receive the dial-in number along with a unique PIN that can be used to access the call. For those who cannot access the live broadcast, a replay will be available on Kratos’ website.

    AgEagle Aerial Systems Inc. (NYSE: UAVS) a leading provider of best-in-class unmanned aerial systems (UAS), sensors and software solutions for customers worldwide in the commercial and government verticals, recently announced the appointment of Kevin Lowdermilk to the Company’s board of directors effective October 25, 2024.

    Company CEO, Bill Irby, commented, “It is a privilege to have Kevin join our board. His distinguished career and leadership in some of the most challenging technology sectors speak to his ability to drive success through vision, strategy and execution. We are grateful to work alongside him and leverage his expertise to support the future expansion of our global footprint in both government and commercial verticals, as we position the Company for long-term shareholder value.”

    EHang Holdings Limited (NASDAQ: EH), the world’s leading Urban Air Mobility (“UAM”) technology platform company, recently announced it has entered into a strategic partnership with the Civil Aviation Flight University of China (the “CAFUC”). Building upon the CAFUC’s extensive expertise in civil aviation education, research, and talent development, the two parties will collaborate on cultivating skilled personnel, including operators and maintenance staffs for EHang’s pilotless electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (“eVTOL”) aircraft, and their training for personnel licenses and operational supervision. This partnership aims to address the surging demand for talents in the low-altitude economy and foster the sustainable, high-quality development of the civil unmanned aerial vehicle (“UAV”) industry.

    During a briefing of the State Council Information Office of China on October 8, 2024, Chunlin Li, Vice Chairman of the National Development and Reform Commission (“NDRC”), highlighted the booming low-altitude economy and the rising demand for UAV operators. It is estimated that China faces a talent shortage of up to 1 million in this field. The NDRC will continue enhancing job creation efforts and driving the development of strategic emerging industries such as the low-altitude economy and future industries.

    Ondas Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:ONDS), a leading provider of private industrial wireless networks and commercial drone and automated data solutions, recently announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary Ondas Autonomous Systems Inc. (“OAS”) has entered into an investment agreement with a private investor group, including Charles & Potomac Capital, LLC (“Charles & Potomac”) and Privet Ventures LLC (“Privet Ventures”), for an investment of $3.5 million in convertible notes of OAS. The investment in OAS will support OAS’ business expansion plan and deliver on the substantial growth opportunity in the defense, security, and critical infrastructure and industrial markets targeted by OAS’ Optimus and Iron Drone autonomous drone platforms.

    “We are pleased to secure this initial investment to support the exceptional growth opportunities created by our OAS team across Airobotics and American Robotics,” said Eric Brock, Chairman and CEO of Ondas Holdings and OAS. “Indeed, we have a responsibility to now expand operations and accelerate growth at OAS to meet the urgent needs for security and intelligence for our critical military, government and industrial customers. I am personally investing $1.0 million in this transaction, via Privet Ventures, signaling my firm belief in the substantial value we are creating for all stakeholders including the investors in OAS and Ondas Holdings.”

    About FN Media Group:

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

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

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    SOURCE: FN Media Group

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: KingsRock Advisors Announces Expanded Presence in the US with Additional Senior Hires and Transactions

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Oct. 31, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — KingsRock Advisors, LLC (“KingsRock”), an independent global advisory firm, announced today that it has expanded its presence in the US, with the opening of a new office in New York and the addition of senior bankers, including a new Managing Partner to accelerate the growth of KingsRock’s capital solutions and corporate finance business.

    We are pleased to welcome the following Senior Investment Bankers who have joined KingsRock recently, with additional hires pending:

    New York

    Paul Young, Managing Partner, former Salomon/Citi, MUFG and Apollo
    Tammer Fahmy, Managing Director, former Morgan Stanley, Silver Swan
    Paul Bitler, Managing Director, former Salomon/Citi
    Scott Dauer, Managing Director, former JP Morgan
    Wit Derby, Managing Director, former Bear Stearns, MUFG

    Gregory Raykher, Managing Director, former ORIX USA, Commerzbank
    Aidan Livingston, Senior Associate, former Deutsche Bank
    Huanjie Yuan, Senior Associate, former Deutsche Bank

    California

    Erich Griffin-Mauff, Managing Director, former Deutsche Bank
    Sud Subramanian, Managing Director, former JP Morgan, Deutsche Bank

    “We are excited to welcome our new Managing Partner, Managing Directors, and Senior Associates to KingsRock as we continue to expand the global reach of our capital solutions business. Our commitment to strengthening our partnership model will further enhance our ability to serve our credit, corporate and sponsor clients in the US and internationally. In the near term, we will share more details about our European expansion, and our growing partnerships beyond Europe to support clients worldwide,” said Hakan Wohlin, Founder & Managing partner and Louis Jaffe Co-Founder, Managing Partner.

    KingsRock is also pleased to announce the closing of several US transactions in 2024, including a significant programmatic sale leaseback of community and regional bank branches. KingsRock advised Mountainseed, an Atlanta based company serving the U.S. banking community with a range of services and solutions, and after running a competitive process, paired them with a globally established institutional investor. This investor committed up to $2 billion to support this strategy.

    About KingsRock:

    KingsRock Advisors, LLC headquartered at 900 Third Avenue, New York, NY 10022, is an independent global advisory firm, with securities offered by KingsRock Securities LLC, a FINRA member firm and SIPC, as well as KingsRock Advisors UK Ltd and KingsRock Advisors Europe AB, both wholly owned subsidiaries of KingsRock Advisors LLC.

    Founded in 2020, KingsRock comprises a team of over 20 professionals who advise on a wide range of private capital markets transactions including debt, hybrid capital, equity and M&A with structures ranging from plain vanilla to highly structured. The team collectively has worked on thousands of transactions across various industry sectors worldwide. Clients include private equity and private credit firms, corporations, financial institutions, government-related entities, and institutional investors.

    KingsRock Advisors offers the experience and global reach of a large firm, combined with the structural agility and creativity of a boutique. An independent advisory firm with a global network that provides unconflicted strategic and financial advisory services, along with innovative capital solutions and special situations. The firms’ bankers excel in complex transactions and deliver swift results often where large banks and traditional sources of financing do not have the ability to engage. KingsRock advisors operates across all major industry sectors and is supported by a global network of 115 independent Senior Advisors across 45 countries, who bring decades of deal making experience.

    Disclaimer:

    Securities offered by KingsRock Securities LLC, a FINRA, member firm and a member of SIPC., a wholly owned subsidiary of KingsRock Advisors LLC. • 900 Third Avenue, 10th Floor • New York, NY 10022.

    This message is provided for information purposes and does not constitute an invitation, solicitation or offer to buy or sell any securities or investment. Neither KingsRock Securities, LLC nor its affiliates provide accounting, tax or legal advice; such matters should be discussed with your advisors and/or counsel. 

    Info@kingsrock.com

    Download press release PDF here

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: FMQs: Greens call on SNP to reverse cuts to climate budgets and free school meals

    Source: Scottish Greens

    31 Oct 2024 Climate Climate Action

    The Scottish Government must reverse the cuts it made to key budgets.

    More in Climate

    The First Minister must use any new funding from Westminster to reverse the damaging cuts that the Scottish Government has made to climate and nature budgets, says Scottish Green Co-leader Lorna Slater.

    Speaking at First Minister’s Questions, Ms Slater underlined the importance of nature restoration and walking, wheeling and cycling infrastructure in hitting Scotland’s climate targets.

    In her first question, Ms Slater said:

    “Yesterday the UK Government presented a budget that they claim will put £1.5bn back into the Scottish Government’s budget for this year. 

    “This money should ensure that some of the most damaging cuts announced by the Scottish Government earlier this year should not now need to go ahead. 

    “Spending on the climate and nature emergencies is essential to ensure our planet has a liveable future. Whilst the Scottish Greens were in government, climate and nature spending reached record levels.

    “Will the First Minister commit to using the additional funding announced yesterday for this financial year to restore the funding cuts to the Nature Restoration Fund and active travel budgets, and does this mean that the Scottish Government no longer needs to use up all of the ScotWind funding which was supposed to be invested in our Green future?”

    Following an answer from the First Minister, in which he did not commit to reversing the vast in-year cuts that have been made, Ms Slater called for the First Minister to halt his recent U-turn on rolling out universal free school meals for all primary school pupils.

    Ms Slater said:

    “That’s very disappointing to hear about this year, I’ll ask the First Minister about next year.

    “One of our proudest moments for the Scottish Greens during our time in Government was rolling out free school meals for all children in primary 4 and 5, because we know it’s a simple and effective way to address the impacts of child poverty and make sure every child has the best chance at school.

    “We were on course to expand that to every child in primary school by the end of this session of Parliament, until the Scottish Government put in an indefinite delay on the rollout in this year’s programme for Government. 

    “Given the predicted £3.4bn due to be added to next year’s Scottish Budget, will the First Minister reinstate the promise to deliver free school meals for the remaining pupils in primary 6 and 7 by 2026, as endorsed by this Parliament just a few weeks ago?”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko held meetings with Russian teachers and youth of Uzbekistan in Tashkent

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    During his working visit to Uzbekistan, Dmitry Chernyshenko talked with teachers who are participants in projects of the Russian Ministry of Education. With the Minister of Education Sergey Kravtsov and the head of the Department of Social Development of the Administration of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Odil Abdurakhmanov

    October 31, 2024

    Dmitry Chernyshenko at a meeting with participants of youth projects and programs in Uzbekistan, implemented by the Russian Federation

    October 31, 2024

    Dmitry Chernyshenko at a meeting with participants of youth projects and programs in Uzbekistan, implemented by the Russian Federation

    October 31, 2024

    greeted the participants of the international motor rally of the project “The Path of the Future Games Trophy 2.0” and gave the start to the Tashkent – Jizzakh stage

    October 31, 2024

    Dmitry Chernyshenko greeted the participants of the international motor rally of the project “The Path of the Future Games Trophy 2.0” and gave the start to the Tashkent – Jizzakh stage

    October 31, 2024

    Previous news Next news

    Dmitry Chernyshenko, as part of a working visit to Uzbekistan, talked with teachers who are participants in projects of the Russian Ministry of Education. With the Minister of Education Sergey Kravtsov and the head of the Department of Social Development of the Administration of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Odil Abdurakhmanov

    During his working visit to Uzbekistan, Deputy Prime Minister of Russia Dmitry Chernyshenko spoke with teachers participating in humanitarian projects implemented by the Russian Ministry of Education: “Russian Teacher Abroad”, “Class!” (“Zur!”) and “Baby” (“Mittivoi”).

    The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized the importance of the work of Russian teachers, who make a significant contribution to the development of bilateral relations between Uzbekistan and Russia.

    “The project “Russian Teacher Abroad” is developing in almost 30 countries. Uzbekistan is one of the leaders in the number of Russian teachers, which emphasizes the importance of bilateral cooperation in the field of education between our countries and the corresponding attitude of our Presidents to this. I know that you closely interact with your Uzbek colleagues and introduce advanced educational technologies here. It is important to build a continuous educational trajectory between specialists from Uzbekistan and Russian business,” the Deputy Prime Minister emphasized.

    Dmitry Chernyshenko thanked the teachers for their dedicated work and promotion of the Russian language and culture in the republic.

    “We are doing a lot of work within the framework of the “Class!” project. Teachers from the Russian Federation undergo appropriate training and advanced training at the A.I. Herzen Russian State Pedagogical University in St. Petersburg. Then they come to the Republic of Uzbekistan and teach Russian, exchanging experiences with local teachers,”– noted the Minister of Education of Russia Sergei Kravtsov.

    The head of the Russian Ministry of Education added that the Russian side is also ready to provide methodological assistance so that the training of in-demand specialists here is carried out at a high level.

    During the event, participants also discussed the Russian federal project “Professionalism” and textbooks on Russian as a foreign language.

    At a meeting with participants in youth projects and programs implemented by the Russian Federation, the Deputy Prime Minister noted the significance and legacy of the World Youth Festival and discussed strengthening international youth relations between Uzbekistan and Russia.

    The topic of projects and initiatives that are planned to be implemented within the framework of the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War was separately touched upon.

    In addition, they discussed ways to increase young people’s interest in science and issues of media literacy.

    “You know that our country pays a lot of attention to the international youth agenda. Some of you personally took part in the World Youth Festival, which took place in the federal territory of Sirius. When organizing such an event, it was very important for us that young people from all over the world, including from our fraternal Republic of Uzbekistan, come, look at the created infrastructure and participate in the events,” said Dmitry Chernyshenko.

    He also noted the importance of Uzbekistan’s support for phygital sports and the Future Games.

    “The delegation of Uzbekistan was one of the largest at the World Youth Festival. More than 300 young people from all corners of our country participated in the festival, had the opportunity to find new friends to learn about the experience of countries around the world, and also to demonstrate the unique experience of Uzbekistan in working with youth,” emphasized the moderator of the event, head of the Volunteer Association of Uzbekistan Shirin Abidova.

    During the meeting, Dmitry Chernyshenko awarded the commemorative medal “World Youth Festival 2024” to representatives of Uzbekistan and Russia who made a great contribution to the preparation and holding of this large-scale event. The medals were awarded in accordance with the order of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

    The meeting was also attended by Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation to the Republic of Uzbekistan Oleg Malginov, Deputy Head of Rosmolodezh Denis Ashirov, Head of the Representative Office of Rossotrudnichestvo in the Republic of Uzbekistan Irina Staroselskaya, Head of the Department of Social Development of the Administration of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Odil Abdurakhmanov, First Deputy Director of the Agency for Youth Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan Dilnozahon Kattakhanova.

    “Rosmolodezh is pursuing a course to strengthen international youth relations. It is important for us to help young people from Russia and other countries find common ground in various spheres of activity. Joint projects and programs are a contribution to the development of modern society and the construction of a happy future,” emphasized State Secretary – Deputy Head of the Federal Agency for Youth Affairs (Rosmolodezh) Denis Ashirov.

    The Deputy Prime Minister of Russia also greeted the participants of the international motor rally of the Future Games Trophy Route 2.0 project and gave the start to the Tashkent – Jizzakh stage.

    The Deputy Prime Minister recalled that the run started in October at the Russia – Sports Power forum in Ufa. It will pass through the territory of eight states – participants of the global phygital movement.

    “Phygital and Future Games are a new competition format that was invented in Russia on the instructions of President Vladimir Putin and became known to the entire world. We know the intention of your head of state and the people of Uzbekistan to also be nominated to host the Future Games in your country. I thank the leadership of the republic and everyone who works with young people for their caring attitude to this format, which allows new stars to develop, who show themselves well both in computer games and in real sports,” said Dmitry Chernyshenko.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Remarks by President  Biden and President Nikos Christodoulides of the Republic of Cyprus Before Bilateral  Meeting

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    Oval Office
    12:06 P.M. EDT
    PRESIDENT BIDEN:  Well, Mr. President, welcome.  Welcome to the Oval Office.
    PRESIDENT CHRISTODOULIDES:  Thank you very much, Mr. President.
    PRESIDENT BIDEN:  Good to see you.  Good to see you.
    It was 10 years ago when I visited Cyprus last, as vice president of the United States.  And — and, as I said, there is no limit to what our nations can achieve if we work together. 
    PRESIDENT CHRISTODOULIDES:  Exactly.
    PRESIDENT BIDEN:  And we’ve been doing that for a long time. 
    But I think that’s even more true today.  Today, we stood against Russia’s vicious onslaught against Ukraine.  We launched a strategic dialogue to increase cooperation across a range of issues, from energy security to artificial intelligence.  And we surged humanitarian aid, delivering 8,000 metric tons to Gaza. 
    So, Mr. President, Cyprus made all this possible.  I want thank you for your leadership in making that happen. 
    And this year also marks the 50th anniversary of the artificial division of the island.  I remember it well.  It was my first year as a U.S. senator.  I remember sitting with (inaudible) — anyway, it’s — it’s a sad day.
    PRESIDENT CHRISTODOULIDES:  (Inaudible.)
    PRESIDENT BIDEN:  But as a — it was a sad occasion, but I remain optimistic about the possibility that a u- — reunited Cyprus and bizonal, bicommunal federation is possible.  And the United States ready — stands ready to provide any support we can toward that goal. 
    Mr. President, thank you, again, for being here, and I look forward to our conversation.
    The floor is yours.
    PRESIDENT CHRISTODOULIDES:  Mr. President, it’s a great honor to be at the White House.  Thank you very much for your invitation.
    As you very well know, our countries have been — have built a truly strategic partnership and — and our relations — our relations are at a strategic and historical high.
    At the bilateral level, we are working closely on defense and security, on energy, law enforcement, technology innovation.  There is a top potential, and there is a clear and strong political will from both countries, following also the first strategic dialogue that took place in Cyprus last week to further enhance our partnership.
    Mr. President, at — at the regional level, Cyprus is a predictable and reliable partner of the United States in a region of great geopolitical importance.  We are the member state of the European Union in the region.  We have excellent relations with all of our neighbors.  And we’re working closely with the United States and other partners to face the current challenges, to send much-needed humanitarian assistance to Gaza, to evacuate third-country nationals from — from the region.
    With regards to — to Ukraine, Cyprus stands on the right side of history.  And, Mr. President, it could have been different, having in mind that my country is under Turkish occupation the last 50 years.  
    And, Mr. President, I count on your support and the support of the United States to resume negotiations and find a solution of the Cyprus problem — solution in line with the U.N. Security Council resolution, solution that is based on our common values and principles: democracy and respect of human rights.
    So, Mr. President, once again, thank you very much.  I’m looking forward to our discussions.  Thank you very much.
    PRESIDENT BIDEN:  I’m looking forward to it as well.  You’re a good friend.  (Inaudible.)
    PRESIDENT CHRISTODOULIDES:  Thanks.  Thank a lot.
    12:20 P.M. EDT

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: A Proclamation on National Diabetes Month,  2024

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
         Over 38 million Americans, or 1 in every 10 people, have diabetes.  During National Diabetes Month, we raise awareness about this chronic condition and promote the strategies that can prevent and manage it.  We recommit to making treatment more affordable and accessible.  And we strengthen our resolve to find cures.
         Diabetes takes a physical and financial toll on Americans nationwide, and many Americans must decide between paying for treatments and putting food on the table.  Insulin — a life-saving drug for some people with diabetes — can cost Americans upwards of $300, even though it costs drug companies as little as $10 per vial to make.  Some Americans end up rationing their medication, which can have serious effects on their health and well-being.  While Big Pharma makes record profits, Americans pay exorbitant prices — higher than anywhere else in the world.  It is unacceptable.  No one should have to lie awake at night wondering if they can afford their medical bills or their insulin prescription.
         Since I came into office, I have worked to ensure that health care is a right in this country, not a privilege — and that meant lowering the cost of insulin.  That is why my Administration took on Big Pharma and won.  I signed the Inflation Reduction Act, which capped the cost of insulin at $35 for people on Medicare.  And the largest manufacturer of insulin in the United States answered my call to lower the cost to $35 per month for everyone.  My Inflation Reduction Act also empowered Medicare to negotiate lower drug prices, lowering the costs of medications used to treat common diseases, including drugs that treat diabetes.  Further, that law requires drug companies that raise prices faster than inflation to pay Medicare back the difference, saving seniors up to $618 per dose of medication.  Moreover, beginning in 2025, the Inflation Reduction Act will cap total out-of-pocket drug costs at $2,000 per year for people on Medicare.  There is still more to do, but this will help ensure Americans — including those with diabetes — have the dignity, security, and peace of mind they deserve.
         My Administration is also working to drive new breakthroughs in preventing, detecting, and treating diabetes while ensuring that Americans have the resources they need to lead healthy lifestyles.  I secured $4 billion for the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health to make strides in transforming the prevention, detection, and treatment of deadly diseases like diabetes.  We have seen enormous research advances in recent years to develop promising new diabetes drugs, including the first cell therapy for adults with Type 1 diabetes and the first new oral medication for children with Type 2 diabetes in decades.  At the same time, we recognize that the impact of Type 2 diabetes can be greatly decreased through improvements in nutrition and physical activity.  My Administration announced new standards for school meals to improve their nutritional value and give schools the option to require locally produced, unprocessed menu ingredients.  We also held the first White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health in over 50 years, bringing together advocates, health care providers, food companies, and officials from every level of government.  As a part of that conference, we launched the White House Challenge to End Hunger and Build Healthy Communities.  In total, we have secured more than $10 billion in bold, new commitments from the public and private sectors to end hunger and reduce diet-related diseases like diabetes.
         My Administration also recognizes that tens of millions of Americans have prediabetes and are at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes within 5 years.  Diabetes increases one’s risk of heart attack, cancer, stroke, blindness, kidney failure, and the loss of toes, feet, or legs.  Many of these cases are preventable, and the risk factors are often related to poor nutrition and inadequate physical activity.  To learn more about the risks and how to address prediabetes and help prevent Type 2 diabetes, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention National Diabetes Prevention Program:  cdc.gov/diabetes-prevention. 
         During National Diabetes Month, we celebrate the resilience and courage of all those affected by diabetes.  We thank the dedicated medical professionals, loved ones, and advocates who support this community.  And we recommit to working around the clock to improve care for those affected and get us closer to finding cures.
         NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim November 2024 as National Diabetes Month.  I call upon all Americans, school systems, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, health care providers, research institutions, and other interested groups to join in activities that raise diabetes awareness and help prevent, treat, and manage this disease.
         IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirty-first day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-four, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.
                                 JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: IAM Members Hit the Ground in North Carolina to Boost Union Turnout for Pro-Labor Candidates 

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    IAM members are actively campaigning in the crucial state of North Carolina to support Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, who have both demonstrated a strong commitment to labor rights, in their run for the presidency. Partnering with the North Carolina AFL-CIO, IAM members are canvassing union households, aiming to boost turnout among union voters.

    The labor walks will continue through Election Day, with IAM members and other union affiliates working hard to secure a pro-labor victory at the polls. The AFL-CIO is leading an extensive effort to mobilize union members to vote for candidates who support labor. Teams of union members are going door-to-door, sharing election information and encouraging households to make voting plans.

    The North Carolina AFL-CIO is the federation of unions of working people in North Carolina, representing over a hundred thousand union members working together for good jobs, safe workplaces, workers’ rights, consumer protections, and quality public services on behalf of all working people.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: IAM GOTV Teams Canvass Philadelphia to Educate Union Member

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    This past week in northeast Philadelphia, several hundred union members from various unions gathered at the Sprinkler Fitters Local 692 Hall, coordinated through the Philadelphia AFL-CIO, for its Saturday labor walk. The walks are organized to canvass the city and educate union members at their homes by dropping off materials so they can make an informed decision in this year’s presidential election.

    Watch the video here.

    U.S. Sen. Bob Casey (D-Pa.) came to the hall to speak to all the members and thank them for their work educating union members.

    “The same Supreme Court that took away a 49-year right for women would easily take away the right to organize a union established 80 years ago,” said Casey. “We have to remind them the right to organize a union is on the ballot this election.”

    The Pennsylvania State Council of Machinists has endorsed Casey for his reelection to the Senate. This year, IAM and other union members also have two presidential and vice presidential candidates to choose from on the ballot.

    The two tickets are ideologically opposite on labor issues and worker rights. Candidates Trump and Vance would be fine firing striking workers not paying overtime to workers, and both have crossed picket lines. On the other hand, the IAM-endorsed candidates Kamala Harris and Tim Walz have both walked picket lines and support the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act.

    One of the unionists participating was retired IAM Local 796 Eastern Airlines ramp serviceman Paul Baicich, a dedicated unionist who came to canvass the area.

    “This is the most important election in my lifetime,” said Baicich. “Electing pro-Labor candidates is extremely important. It’s all on the line, and people need to vote! “

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: United States Files Suit for Unpaid Duties and Penalties for Alleged Failure to Pay Duties on Imported Chinese Bedroom Furniture

    Source: US State Government of Utah

    The United States has filed a civil lawsuit against Lawrence Bivona, who was the President of LaJobi Inc., a Delaware corporation that imported Chinese-manufactured children’s bedroom furniture into the United States. The lawsuit alleges that Bivona made false statements to customs officials and, as a result, avoided paying antidumping duties owed on the imported furniture.

    At the time merchandise is entered into the United States, the importer is responsible for providing all information necessary to enable Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to assess the applicable duties owed on the goods, including any antidumping duties applicable to the merchandise. Antidumping duties are trade remedies that help protect domestic industries from unfair trade practices by foreign businesses and countries, such as government subsidies or below market sales.

    The United States’ complaint contends that Bivona caused LaJobi to misrepresent the identity of the manufacturers of the children’s furniture imported from China. In particular, the United States alleges that Bivona falsely represented that the furniture was manufactured by Chinese entities subject to duty rates of approximately 7% or less, and failed to disclose that the furniture was actually manufactured by entities subject to duty rates of 216%.

    “Anti-dumping duties play an important role in countering illegal foreign trade practices and protecting U.S. manufacturers,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “We will continue to pursue those who seek to gain an unfair advantage by violating our trade laws.”

    “These civil penalties support the seriousness of CBP’s trade mission and protect the U.S. economy, while maintaining fair trade and preserving American jobs from predatory practices,” said Executive Director Susan Thomas of CBP’s Cargo and Conveyance Security, Office of Field Operations. “CBP’s antidumping and countervailing duties enforcement aims to mitigate harm by anti-competitive behavior and supports a level playing field for U.S. companies injured by unfair trade practices.”

    “We take very seriously our role in protecting the U.S. economy from illegal and predatory trade practices,” said Assistant Director Ivan J. Arvelo of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Global Trade Investigations. “HSI is committed to working alongside CBP and partners to stop those who engage in fraud to circumvent U.S. trade laws.”

    The complaint seeks the recovery of over $7 million in import duties and over $15 million in civil penalties.

    HSI Newark led the investigation with CBP Trade Regulatory Audit Newark, CBP Associate Chief Counsel New York, CBP Consumer Products and Mass Merchandising (CPMM) Center of Excellence and Expertise. CBP and HSI are the agencies responsible for enforcing U.S. laws related to the importation of merchandise into the United States, including the collection of duties and assessment of penalties.

    Trial Counsel Daniel Hoffman of the Civil Division’s Commercial Litigation Branch, National Courts Section, is handling the case.

    The case is filed in the Court of International Trade and captioned United States v. Lawrence Bivona No. 24-00196.

    To combat trade fraud, including avoidance of import duties, the Justice Department created a Trade Fraud Task Force. The Task Force partners with CBP and other law enforcement agencies to ensure compliance with U.S. trade laws.

    The claims in the complaint are allegations only. There has been no determination of liability. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Marshals Arrest Non-Compliant Sex Offenders During Operation Trick or Treat 2

    Source: US Marshals Service

    Arlington, VA – From October 1-28, the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) partnered with 112 law enforcement agencies in 22 states to conduct Operation Trick or Treat 2, an enforcement initiative during the Halloween season to investigate and arrest non-compliant and fugitive sex offenders.

    Operation Trick or Treat 2 resulted in 331 total arrests, including 129 for failure to register as a sex offender, 74 sex offenders for other offenses, as well as 128 others for various criminal activities. During the operation, law enforcement personnel also conducted 3,334 sex offender compliance checks and seized 40 illegally possessed firearms.

    “Operation Trick or Treat 2 reaffirms one of our Agency’s highest priorities to ensure safety of children in our communities,” said Director Ronald L. Davis of the U.S. Marshals Service. “I applaud the women and men of the Marshals Service and all of the agencies who participated in this operation.”

    Operation Trick or Treat 2 investigators initiated federal criminal cases for failure to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act; apprehended sex offenders in violation of registration requirements or wanted on active warrants; and utilized sex offender compliance checks to increase police presence and identify non-compliant sex offenders for further investigation.

    Law enforcement personnel in select counties and tribal nations from the following federal judicial districts participated in Operation Trick or Treat 2: District of Arizona, Eastern District of Arkansas, Western District of Arkansas, Central District of California, Eastern District of California, District of Colorado, Middle District of Florida, Northern District of Illinois, Southern District of Illinois, Northern District of Indiana, Northern District of Iowa, District of Massachusetts, Eastern District of Michigan, Western District of Missouri, District of Montana, District of Nebraska, District of Nevada, District of New Hampshire, Northern District of New York, District of Oregon, Middle District of Pennsylvania, Eastern District of Tennessee, Western District of Tennessee, Southern District of Texas, Western District of Texas, Western District of Washington, and Eastern District of Wisconsin.

    Significant arrests:

    • On October 11, U.S. Marshals arrested Antonio D. Cooke in the Northern District of Illinois who was a Wisconsin Department of Corrections most wanted sex offender and had been on the run for more than four years. He was wanted on warrants for failure to register as a sex offender and probation violation with an underlying conviction for sexual abuse of a child.  Operation personnel located and arrested the fugitive sex offender at a Chicago hospital.
    • On October 16, U.S. Marshals arrested Ryan Kirkham in the Western District of Washington for failing to register as a sex offender. The subject had prior convictions for child molestation, immoral communication with a child, and possession of child pornography. Operation personnel located and arrested the individual at a residence in Everett, Wash. 
    • On October 17, U.S. Marshals arrested Isaiah Navarro in the District of Arizona for allegedly attempting to sexually exploit a minor and committing a dangerous crime against children. Operation personnel arrested the subject in Glendale, Ariz.

    All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

    As the federal government’s primary agency for sex offender and fugitive investigations, the United States Marshals Service use its resources and investigative expertise to make neighborhoods safer. The agency has a key mission to help keep non-compliant sex offenders accountable.

    Sex offenders are required to comply with federal, state, and local requirements to register as a sex offender. The Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act (AWA) authorizes USMS to assist state, local, tribal, and territorial authorities in the location and apprehension of non-compliant and fugitive sex offenders; investigate violations of the AWA for federal prosecution; and assist in the identification and location of sex offenders relocated because of a major disaster.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: U.S. Commercial Drone Market Size Estimated to Reach a Value of $ 31 Billion By End of 2034

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PALM BEACH, Fla., Oct. 31, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FN Media Group News Commentary – The commercial drone industry is witnessing rapid growth and transforming various sectors such as agriculture, delivery and logistics, and energy among others. Advancements in drone technologies have led to increased demand and utilization in industries such as filming, emergency response, construction, and real estate. Additionally, drone software solution providers and manufacturers are continuously innovating and upgrading their offerings to cater to diverse market needs. As governments establish regulatory frameworks, the integration of drones into industries is expected to accelerate. This, in turn, is likely to create lucrative opportunities for market expansion over the forecast period. A report from Grand View Research projected that the U.S. commercial drone market size is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.1% through 2030. The report said: “Furthermore, favorable legislations and rising use of commercial drones by authorities in the U.S. is expected to attract various industries to utilize drones for different processes. Similarly, government authorities across the region are constantly working on framing new regulations for the commercial applications of drones. This is attributed to increased focus on the adoption of commercial drones due to their economic potential, while prioritizing the safety and security of the country. This, in turn, is anticipated to drive the U.S. commercial drone market growth over the forecast period.”   Active Tech Companies in the markets today include ZenaTech, Inc. (NASDAQ: ZENA), AeroVironment, Inc. (NASDAQ: AVAV), Draganfly Inc. (NASDAQ: DPRO), Red Cat Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: RCAT), Safe Pro Group Inc. (NASDAQ: SPAI).

    Fact.MR continued: “In addition, surveyors and engineers use drones to visualize the progress made in their construction projects by taking overhead images. Having a project overview leads to simplification of decision-making, thereby streamlining building site operations. Drones are now being used for several applications, ranging from surveillance, deployment in military operations, video recording, agriculture, and film & television. With this rise in drone applications, key players in the United States market are incorporating advanced technologies in drones. Increasing drone payload capacity and introducing drones for specific applications are anticipated to promote the profits of drone manufacturers. Furthermore, leading companies are also making drones with high-power motors. Home deliveries through drones have now become a reality with the help of retail and logistics organizations such as Amazon.”

    ZenaTech Inc.’s (NASDAQ:ZENA) ZenaDrone Completes the First Phase of an IQ Nano Inventory Management Trial for Multinational Auto Parts Customer – ZenaTech, a technology company specializing in AI (Artificial Intelligence) drone solutions and enterprise SaaS (Software-as-a-Service) solutions, today announced that its subsidiary, ZenaDrone, has successfully completed the first phase of drone testing and 3D mapping, and is beginning the next phase of production of a paid trial for a multinational auto parts manufacturer. This production phase consists of flying automatic and fully autonomous flights of the IQ Nano drone in an inventory management application.

    Testing took place over several months at ZenaDrone’s production facility in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates (UAE) to ensure the smooth operation of the inventory scanning application. The 3D mapping took place just recently at the customer’s site consisting of scanning and mapping the warehouse area to create a 3D map that automates the drone flight path and its operations while in production.

    View video showing the IQ Nano in test flight here.

    The production phase is set to begin imminently and will consist of the IQ Nano flying and reading product and component bar codes, collecting information for verification and integration with the customer’s inventory management and accounting systems.

    “We look forward to the production phase and concluding a successful trial, proving the viability of the IQ Nano and enabling us to deliver our product to our customer. A successful trial also opens the potential to win additional business with this customer and to verifiably demonstrate IQ Nano’s utility for the benefit of attracting additional market interest. The revolutionary use of an indoor drone for productivity and cost savings value can be implemented across hundreds of warehouse facilities, turning a week-long activity like counting inventory into a day,” said CEO Shaun Passley, Ph.D. – Get the full details by visiting: https://www.financialnewsmedia.com/news-zena/

    Additional Groundbreaking ZenaTech Inc. Developments this week include:

    ZenaTech Enters the Drone Sensor and Components Market Establishing a New Taiwan Subsidiary to Win More US Defense Contracts for Its AI Drones – ZenaTech also announced it will establish a new company in Taiwan to manufacture drone sensors and components for use in the drone products produced by its subsidiary ZenaDrone. The new company, named Spider Vision Sensors Ltd., will ensure ZenaDrone’s products are compliant with the US National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), an important requirement for the company to win more business with the US Military.

    Spider Vision Sensors Ltd. will manufacture drone sensors, electronics, and components such LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), thermal, infrared, multi-spectral and hyper sensors, cameras, and PBCs (Printed Circuit Boards). Having in-house manufactured sensors and components will enable ZenaDrone to have a steady supply to fulfill customer orders and drone production needs at its Sharjah, UAE, and future Arizona-based drone manufacturing facilities. Taiwan was selected due to its size and skills as an electronics hub, and the availability of low-cost alternative components versus those from China. The new company is currently at the prototype stage, and the manufacturing facility is expected to be open in November.

    “Establishing a drone sensor and components manufacturer in Taiwan will help bring our products to market faster and removes dependencies on any Chinese made electronics. This will position us to win more US military contracts via achieving Green UAS (Uncrewed Arial Systems) and Blue UAS certifications as an approved supplier,” said CEO Shaun Passley, Ph.D.    Read this full release at:      https://finance.yahoo.com/news/zenatech-enters-drone-sensor-components-113000155.html

    Other recent developments in the technology industry include:

    AeroVironment (NASDAQ: AVAV) recently successfully showcased the maritime prowess of its combat-proven JUMP® 20 uncrewed aircraft system (UAS) during the NATO REPMUS 2024 (Robotic Experimentation and Prototyping using Maritime Uncrewed Systems) exercise off the coast of Portugal. This dynamic demonstration reinforced JUMP 20’s advanced Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities, autonomously launching and landing on a moving vessel in rough seas, with conditions reaching sea state level 5 and winds over 20 kts.

    The JUMP 20 also highlighted its multi-sensor mission versatility, seamlessly executing wide-area search and detection tasks. Its advanced Electro Optical and Mid-Wave Infrared (MWIR) turret automatically slewed to investigate identified targets without repositioning the platform, ensuring constant operational focus. Full-motion video was captured and later analyzed using AV’s cutting-edge computer vision technology, SPOTR-Edge™, enabling perception analysis using its robust library of object classifications, including persons, vehicles, and maritime vessels. Additionally, video from this event will further enhance the solution, making the JUMP 20 even more capable for future deployments by refining its object recognition and situational response capabilities.

    Draganfly Inc. (NASDAQ: DPRO), an award-winning, industry-leading developer of drone solutions and systems, recently announced its participation in the upcoming Wings of Saskatchewan event in Regina, from October 30 to October 31, 2024. Draganfly will showcase its latest drone technology advancements, contributing to discussions on industry trends, safety, and regulatory considerations alongside key stakeholders in the aviation sector.

    The Wings of Saskatchewan Conference, hosted by the Saskatchewan Aerial Applicators Association and the Saskatchewan Aviation Council, serves as a vital gathering for the aviation community. This year’s event will bring together leaders from both civil and commercial aviation sectors to discuss technological advancements, regulatory updates, and future trends within the industry.

    Draganfly will emphasize the need for synergy across the aviation industry at the conference by addressing essential topics, including airspace safety and the regulatory challenges impacting the drone sector. This presentation will spotlight the benefits of enhanced communication and collaboration between fixed-wing, helicopter, and RPAS (Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems) to promote safe, efficient, and integrated airspace management.

    Red Cat Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: RCAT), a drone technology company integrating robotic hardware and software for military, government, and commercial operations, recently announced a new contract and order for 12 of its FlightWave Edge 130 Blue system from the Royal Australian Navy. The contract was secured through Criterion Solutions Pty Ltd., an Australian-based distributor of intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and information technology solutions.

    FlightWave, an industry-leading provider of VTOL drone, sensor and software solutions was acquired by Red Cat in September 2024. The acquisition brought FlightWave’s flagship drone, the Edge 130 Blue into its family of low-cost, portable unmanned reconnaissance and precision lethal strike systems. FlightWave’s size, weight and vertical take off capabilities makes it ideal for maritime operations and littoral environments.

    Safe Pro Group Inc. (NASDAQ: SPAI) recently shared a video highlighting the capabilities of the Company’s patent-pending SpotlightAI™ AI-powered demining solution presented by Amazon Web Services (AWS) at this year’s AWS Summit Washington, D.C. The video highlights AWS Partners in the AWS Partner Network (APN) featuring senior Safe Pro team members discussing how AWS’s hyper scalability and compute resources are enabling the Company to modernize demining efforts in Ukraine by utilizing AI-powered image analysis of drone-based imagery.

    “Our inclusion in this year’s AWS Summit Washington, D.C. spotlights our continued success in locating thousands of landmines and unexploded ordnance currently scattered over thousands of hectares of land in Ukraine utilizing our AI-powered image analysis technology. AWS continues to provide us invaluable support as we work to harness the power of AI and AWS’s hyper scalability to modernize real world demining operations. Working with AWS, we have greatly enhanced our ability to provide leading humanitarian mine action organizations with powerful new tools that can improve their situational awareness as they execute their land clearance operations across Ukraine, expediting the release of land for agricultural and civilian use,” said Dan Erdberg, Chairman and CEO of Safe Pro Group Inc.

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Noma Exits Stealth with $32M to Secure the Entire Data & AI Lifecycle from Development to Production

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TEL AVIV, Israel, Oct. 31, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Noma exited stealth today, announcing $32M in funding and the launch of their application security platform for securing the entire Data & AI Lifecycle. The company’s series A round was led by Ballistic Ventures and comes less than a year after a previously undisclosed seed round led by Glilot Capital Partners, with participation from Cyber Club London. Dozens of strategic angel investors have backed Noma, including current and former CISOs of McDonald’s, Google DeepMind, Twitter, Atlassian, BNP Paribas, T-Mobile, and Nielsen.

    The rapid adoption of AI has thrown data science and machine learning teams into the spotlight, introducing new application security risks. “The Data & AI Lifecycle is significantly different from the software development lifecycle. It comes with a whole new supply chain, as well as unique open source components and runtime artifacts that traditional security tools don’t cover,” said Niv Braun, co-founder and CEO of Noma. “We’re already seeing organizations compromised by misconfigured data pipelines and MLOps tools and vulnerable and malicious open source models. It’s only a matter of time before we see AI’s equivalent of SolarWinds or Log4Shell. There’s an urgent need for a new security solution that holistically covers the Data & AI Lifecycle.”

    Noma’s platform provides end-to-end AI discovery, security, protection, and compliance. It protects against supply chain risks — like vulnerable data pipelines, unscanned code in data science environments, misconfigured MLOps tools, and sensitive data used for model training — as well as threats like vulnerable and malicious models, runtime prompt injection, and more.

    The platform seamlessly deploys across any cloud-based, SaaS, or self-hosted environment within minutes, requiring no agents or code changes and adding no friction to data science teams’ day-to-day workflows. Noma’s end-to-end approach provides coverage across the entire Data & AI Lifecycle, from development to production and from classic data pipelines and ML to GenAI.

    “Like traditional software development, AI has introduced a new range of security risks — but is moving at hyperspeed and with even higher stakes,” said Kobi Samboursky, Founder and Managing Partner of Glilot. “AppSec evolved over decades with fragmented tools for static and dynamic analysis, open source, supply chain, and runtime, but security teams have come to realize that they need consolidated solutions. Noma is uniquely positioned to tackle this problem from the start, consolidating multiple use cases into a single platform. We backed Noma to become the complete application security solution for the Data and AI Lifecycle.”

    “The role of data science teams has rapidly evolved from supporting business functions like reporting and analytics to developing AI-powered applications that significantly impact business outcomes,” said Jake Seid, Co-founder and general partner of Ballistic Ventures.

    “As security and compliance become more top of mind for organizations adopting AI, embedding security from the start ensures that innovation can flourish without compromise. Noma’s approach gives AppSec teams full visibility and confidence while empowering data science teams to move fast and drive business value.”

    Founders Niv Braun (CEO) and Alon Tron (CTO) met in the prestigious 8200 intelligence unit and have combined their respective experience leading security groups and data science teams to start Noma. Together they have quickly built a team with deep expertise in AI, application security, and beyond. Noma has helped shape industry standards for AI security as members of the OWASP AI Exchange and has contributed to US government policy on AI security, including informing guidelines like NIST SP 800-218A. The Noma platform is already used by paying customers, including Fortune 500 companies.

    Learn more about Noma’s platform and vision on the Noma website and blog.

    Media Contact
    Lazer Cohen
    lazer@concrete.media
    347-753-8256

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1996901b-4732-4856-b705-03949017b91e

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: US-Africa relations under Biden: a mismatch between talk and action

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Christopher Isike, Director, African Centre for the Study of the United States, University of Pretoria

    In his first year in office, US president Joe Biden committed to resetting US-Africa relations based on a doctrine of equal partnership.

    He sent his secretary of state, Antony Blinken, to Kenya, Côte d’Ivoire and Nigeria. The visit was used to outline the administration’s policy outlook towards Africa. It laid the ground for the official US-Africa policy commitment that Blinken launched the following year in South Africa.

    Since then, there have been high level engagements between the US and African countries to deepen ties. They included visits by top cabinet members of the administration: vice-president Kamala Harris, secretary of defence Lloyd Austin and treasury secretary Janet Yellen. First lady Jill Biden also came.

    Biden hosted a well attended US-Africa Leaders Summit in Washington DC in December 2022. Kenyan president William Ruto paid a state visit to the White House in May.

    Yet our view, which is based on years of studying and writing on US and Africa relations, is that the Biden administration has not fulfilled its commitment to resetting US-Africa relations based on an equal partnership. It hasn’t recognised Africa’s growing agency in international affairs.

    We argue that there has been a mismatch between the rhetoric and practice of an equal partnership. For example, African leaders or the African Union were not consulted about the agenda of the 2022 US-Africa Leaders Summit. This was also the case with the US’s Africa strategy.

    This reflects the traditional paternalistic relationship of the US with Africa.



    Read more:
    Joe Biden in Africa: US president has ignored the continent for his entire term — why he’s visiting Angola

    Biden is due to visit Angola in December – his only African visit as president. A much more encouraging message of equal partnership would have been delivered if the US-Africa Leaders Summit, for example, had been held at the African Union headquarters in Ethiopia. Biden would have then been able to engage with African leaders in the continent early in his term.

    A full diary of engagements

    There are a number of positive indicators of Biden’s commitment to reset relations with Africa.

    August 2022: The first tangible step was through the US Strategy Toward Sub-Saharan Africa. This presented a shift in emphasis from great power politics (vis-a-vis China and Russia in Africa) and Trump’s America First diplomacy, to one of mutual respect and partnership (at least on paper) under Biden.

    Priorities included fostering open societies, delivering democratic and security dividends, advancing pandemic recovery and economic opportunity, and supporting the climate agenda.

    December 2022: The US-Africa Leaders Summit in Washington DC was attended by 49 African leaders, three months after the release of the Africa strategy. The focus was on

    strengthening ties with African partners based on principles of mutual respect and shared interests and values.

    Biden pledged US$55 billion in investments until 2025 to advance goals that aligned with shared priorities. The US is said to have allocated 80% of said funds.

    The US used the summit to formally announce its support for the African Union’s membership of the G20. This was realised when the AU officially joined the G20 as a permanent member in 2023.

    November 2023: Biden hosted Angolan president João Lourenço at the White House on an official visit. They discussed cooperation on the economy, security, energy, transport, telecommunications, agriculture and outer space.

    May 2024: Kenyan president William Ruto’s state visit was the first by an African leader in more than 15 years.

    September 2024: US ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield announced US support for Africa getting two permanent seats on the UN security council.

    Finally, Biden’s visit to Angola, set for the first week in December would be the first by a US president since 2015.

    What’s gone wrong

    It’s possible to see serious flaws in the US approach towards Africa set against the expectation of an equal partnership.

    Firstly, the US has attempted to undermine African agency through its bid to pressure African countries to condemn Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Many African countries chose non-alignment.

    Secondly, the US championing two seats for Africa on the security council looks commendable on the surface. But the lack of veto power perpetuates power imbalances between Africa and the current permanent security council members – the US, France, the UK, Russia and China.

    The question again is how equal the partnership is if Africa will be a junior member of the security council.

    Thirdly, there has been a lack of joint agenda setting. African countries have made no input into US-Africa strategy or the US-Africa Leaders Summit.

    Failing to consult African leaders, institutions and civil society on the continent’s own priorities reflects the same old practice of imposing priorities on African states. It looks like a continuation of the usual passing off of American national interests as African interests.

    Fourthly, there have been challenges in implementing what’s set out in the US Strategy Toward Sub-Saharan Africa. These have included inadequate resource allocation.



    Read more:
    US-Africa trade deal turns 25 next year: Agoa’s winners, losers and what should come next

    Fifth, the Biden administration has used the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa) as diplomatic leverage over African countries. For example, in October 2023 it announced the removal of Uganda, Niger, Gabon and Central African Republic from the beneficiaries. Earlier, the administration removed Ethiopia, Guinea, Mali and Burkina Faso. These countries were removed from Agoa for not complying with US human rights and political demands.

    Between February and March 2024, the US Congress also considered the US-South Africa Bilateral Relations Bill, which risks South Africa’s exclusion from Agoa because of Pretoria’s position on the Israel/Palestine conflict.

    Lastly, the fact that Biden is only visiting Africa in the last days of his presidency suggests Africa is not a priority. The fact that only one African head of state has been afforded a state visit to Washington reinforces this thinking.

    If the US is serious about equal partnership, it mustn’t treat Africa as an afterthought. It must always consult African states in shaping policies that affect them and the continent.

    Ruth Kasanga, a postgraduate student in the Department of Political Sciences and Research Assistant at the African Centre for the Study of the United States, University of Pretoria, made contributions to this article.

    Samuel Oyewole is affiliated with Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Nigeria.

    Christopher Isike 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. US-Africa relations under Biden: a mismatch between talk and action – https://theconversation.com/us-africa-relations-under-biden-a-mismatch-between-talk-and-action-242307

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Alzheimer’s treatment donanemab is not a ‘miracle drug’ – not providing it on the NHS is the right choice

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Ian Maidment, Professor in Clinical Pharmacy, Aston University

    There was frustration in some corners of the media when it was announced that a new drug to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s was not going to be made available on the NHS.

    Alzheimer’s wonder drug blocked on NHS over cost, a Telegraph headline ran. The Daily Mail went with: Alzheimer’s ‘wonder’ drug will be blocked by NHS from TODAY due to cost.

    In late August, the UK’s National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice), which provides clinical guidance for the NHS, rejected another Alzheimer’s treatment called lecanemab. The media response at that time was similar.

    One million people in the UK have dementia, and this figure is expected to rise to 1.4 million by 2040. We have no drugs that slow the disease progression – so-called “disease-modifying drugs” – for this mind-robbing disease, only drugs to treat symptoms. It is clear that we need new drugs, so has Nice made the wrong decision?

    Let’s dig a bit more into the rationale for Nice’s decision.

    The “wonder” drug (or “miracle drug”) that some newspapers referred to is donanemab, an antibody that latches onto amyloid plaques in the brain and removes them. These plaques are the hallmarks of Alzheimer’s, but it is not known if they are the cause of Alzheimer’s or a consequence of it. (Some people have an abundance of these plaques but no Alzheimer’s.)

    At the end of October, Nice declined to approve this drug for use on the NHS for treating early-stage Alzheimer’s disease. This was despite the UK’s drugs regulator, the Medicines and Healthcare Regulatory Authority (MHRA) approving donanemab.

    How can we explain the different decisions of the two public bodies? And which one was right?

    We can understand the decisions in the context of the different roles of the MHRA and Nice. Essentially, the MHRA reviews the scientific evidence and decides whether the drug is safe and effective. It aims to assess whether the benefits outweigh the risks. If they do, then the drug is approved for use in the UK.

    Nice focuses on developing guidelines to support the adoption of new treatments, while considering value for money for the taxpayer alongside safety and effectiveness.

    We don’t know how much donanemab will cost in the UK. In the US, the list price is £25,000 per patient per year. It is thought that about 70,000 people in the UK would be eligible for treatment with donanemab.

    These drugs, donanemab and lecanemab, are given by infusion every two or four weeks and there are additional costs related to this and the monitoring needed.

    To successfully treat patients in the very early stages of Alzheimer’s, these people first need to be identified. So new specialist diagnostic clinics would need to be created to test and confirm potential underlying disease. This might include genetic tests and lumbar puncture tests (to look for elevated amyloid in spinal fluid).

    The drug infusions need to be started in specialist clinics with trained staff and facilities available for routine administration. This will all potentially increase the medication management burden on the patient and any family carer, which already can be difficult.

    Nice concluded that donanemab slows the rate of decline in symptoms, but is not a cure. We don’t know enough about the long-term effects or the cost-effectiveness of this treatment. Nice consulted various expert groups on how well donanemab works, and the consensus was that it is modest at best.

    The main outcome measurement used in the clinical trial was the integrated Alzheimer’s disease rating scale at 76 weeks. The scale, which measures both cognition and daily functioning, ranges from 0 to 144. A meaningful change is considered to be five points for people with Alzheimer’s who have mild cognitive impairment and nine points for people with Alzheimer’s who have mild dementia.

    The change in the scale from the start of the trial to 76 weeks was −10.19 in patients receiving donanemab compared with −13.11 in patients receiving a placebo. This difference of 2.92 is less than what is considered to be a meaningful change for patients. Given this, donanemab is certainly not a “wonder” drug or a “miracle” drug, and describing it as such may give false hope to vulnerable people with dementia and their family carers.

    Substantial side-effects

    The side-effect burden of donanemab is substantial and like all new drugs, more side-effects may be identified when it is used in day-to-day practice. One particular concern is swelling and bleeding on the brain.

    In human trials, brain swelling and bleeds occurred in 37% of patients on donanemab compared with 15% on the placebo. Overall, 13% of patients on donanemab stopped treatment because of the side-effects compared with 4% on placebo. Although the consequences are generally mild, it can lead to serious problems, such as seizures.

    Hypersensitivity reactions, including swelling of the lips, face, tongue, throat and other parts of the body and breathing difficulties, are also a risk.

    Many families in the UK have been touched by Alzheimer’s and fully understand the need for effective care. For families, one clear need is social care and support. Government after government has identified the need to invest in and reform social care. This, rather than spending money on drugs of questionable benefit, needs to be the priority.

    Ian Maidment 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. Alzheimer’s treatment donanemab is not a ‘miracle drug’ – not providing it on the NHS is the right choice – https://theconversation.com/alzheimers-treatment-donanemab-is-not-a-miracle-drug-not-providing-it-on-the-nhs-is-the-right-choice-242147

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Overshooting 1.5°C is risky – that’s why we need to hedge our bets

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Carl-Friedrich Schleussner, Research Group Leader, International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA)

    Further warming hugely increases the risk we will pass climate tipping points, such as the collapse of Greenland’s ice sheet. Michal Balada / shutterstock

    The global response to climate change has gained momentum since the 2015 Paris agreement, yet it remains inadequate to meet the scale of the challenge. That agreement established the goal of holding global warming to well below 2°C, and to pursue efforts to limit it to 1.5°C. To achieve this, greenhouse gas emissions should peak and decline as soon as possible.

    The latest reports of the UN Environment Programme, the International Energy Agency and others have suggested that we are on the cusp of global emissions peaking. However, halting the increase in annual emissions is only the first step. Failure to act earlier and more decisively to bring emissions down to net zero has made limiting global warming to 1.5°C an uncomfortably close call.

    The IPCC has looked at “pathways” to keeping 1.5°C in reach. In nearly all of these, temperature rises will exceed 1.5°C, after which warming is reversed by humanity removing more carbon from the atmosphere than it emits. This temporary breach of 1.5°C for at least a few decades is referred to as “overshoot”.

    In a recent study in the journal Nature, we discuss the pitfalls of being overly optimistic about the feasibility and safety of such temperature overshoot scenarios. Excessive confidence could lead to underestimating the risks associated with going over 1.5°C – even temporarily.

    There is a need to be clear about what climate science does and does not know about overshoot, and plan accordingly. This means that, while some risks can be directly reduced by global climate action, others may require additional measures. A responsible strategy to limit near- and long-term climate risks requires both stringent near-term emission reductions and to develop a large-scale carbon removal capacity.

    What if the planet warms more than we expect?

    Even if warming goes below 1.5°C after the overshoot, the impacts of climate change will not automatically and uniformly reverse. Overshoot comes with irreversible consequences for people and ecosystems, such as species extinction, and the world we return to will be different from the one we failed to safeguard.

    We can’t be certain how much warming a given amount of greenhouse gas emissions will lead to, and overshoot projections are often based on a best estimate. The IPCC, for instance, talks about high overshoot pathways exceeding 1.5°C “by 0.1–0.3°C”.

    But those numbers are just the middle of a wide range of possible outcomes. In reality, uncertainty about how some features of the Earth system will respond to warming, such as the carbon cycle, means that peak warming could be substantially higher – by up to 1°C or more. We cannot even rule out continuous warming after reaching net zero carbon emissions. Every fraction of a degree of warming counts – exceeding 1.5°C by as much as an additional 1°C would come with grave repercussions.

    We may have to remove billions of tonnes of carbon from the atmosphere.
    TR STOK

    A capacity to remove several hundred billion tonnes of CO₂ in this century might be needed to hedge against the risks of high warming outcomes, and to ensure we can bring warming back to 1.5°C once this has been exceeded.

    In fact, our results imply we might need close to 10 billion tonnes of CO₂ removal a year after 2050 (about 25% of current annual emissions). This would require a massive effort, but might just be possible with the rapid scaling up of a range of methods.

    These include well-known strategies such as restoring forests and wetlands and managing the soil better. But it also includes novel methods such as direct air capture technology, in which carbon would be sucked directly from the sky, or bioenergy and carbon capture and storage, which involves extracting CO₂ from the atmosphere and storing it underground.

    Some of these methods may not work out as envisioned due to technological, economic, social or sustainability limitations. But even if they do not work at the scale envisioned, or not at all, we still need to try.

    Limiting near- and long-term climate risks

    Because we can’t be certain exactly how much the climate will warm, we’ll need to limit the risks as much as possible.

    First, we must reduce emissions as fast as possible to slow down Earth’s temperature increase, limit peak warming, and reduce how dependent we ultimately are on removing large amounts of CO₂ to achieve net zero emissions.

    The Paris agreement accommodates such temperature reversal. Even if 1.5°C is exceeded, countries are obliged to hold peak temperatures to “well below 2°C” and to aim for long-term temperature decline.

    However, every fraction of warming will disproportionately make poor and vulnerable people suffer greater hardship, so delaying stringent emissions cuts is not a resilient strategy. The urgency to reduce emissions now should guide the next round of countries’ targets for cutting emissions that are due early next year.

    Second, we should consider hedging against high-risk, high-warming outcomes by building up our capacity to remove carbon and reverse warming. Just as governments hold strategic food and water reserves to weather unexpected disruptions, the world needs to develop the ability to remove large amounts of carbon from the atmosphere. But, given potential limits to how much carbon removal we can scale up in time, we also cannot afford to squander this capacity on any emissions that could be avoided in the first place.

    Investing in this kind of removal capability, on top of pursuing the most ambitious emissions cuts possible, is a no-regrets strategy. Should we have certainty that a more fortunate climate outcome will materialise, being able to remove this scale of carbon would enable us to bring temperatures down faster. And if the warmer side of our projections are realised, we will have put ourselves in a position in which we are best equipped to make temperatures decline again.

    Achieving temperature decline in the long run would limit longer-term climate impacts. For instance, in our study we showed that temperature decline could shave off about 40cm (and potentially up to 1.5 metres) of global sea level rise in 2300. This could be the difference between having a future or not for whole nations of people. It may also limit risks from triggering tipping points in the Earth system, such as the collapse of the Greenland ice sheet or currents in the Atlantic ocean.

    The high-risk outcomes of overshooting 1.5°C means we need to do more, not less, right now – and to focus on bringing temperatures back below 1.5°C in the long run.


    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get our award-winning weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 40,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    Carl-Friedrich Schleussner received funding from European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation
    programme under grant agreement No 101003687 (PROVIDE).

    Gaurav Ganti received funding from European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme.

    Joeri Rogelj received funding from European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme.

    – ref. Overshooting 1.5°C is risky – that’s why we need to hedge our bets – https://theconversation.com/overshooting-1-5-c-is-risky-thats-why-we-need-to-hedge-our-bets-241623

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Russia is meddling in politics in Georgia and Moldova – trying to do by stealth what it is doing by war in Ukraine

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Amy Eaglestone, PhD Candidate, University of Birmingham; Visiting Lecturer, Institute of Political Science, Leiden University

    Recent votes in the former Soviet states of Georgia and Moldova have been dogged by interference from Russian-backed elements. Both countries had previously aspired towards closer ties with western Europe and future membership of the EU. And in both countries there is a strong suggestion of influence from Moscow that could jeopardise those aspirations.

    The Moldovan government held a referendum on the country’s EU accession target for 2030 on October 20. Despite consistent polling suggesting that 60% of Moldovans support further integration, the referendum only passed by a slim majority of 50.4%.

    On the same day, the first round of Moldova’s presidential election saw pro-European incumbent Maia Sandu secure 41% of the vote. This was insufficient for an outright win. Sandu now faces a run off against her closest rival, pro-Russian Alexandr Stoianoglo, who garnered 26% of the first vote.

    In the run-off, Stoianoglo will be backed by the two other candidates, both them pro-Russian populists. This makes a Sandu reelection far from inevitable.

    Meanwhile, in Georgia’s parliamentary elections on October 26, Georgian Dream won its fourth consecutive term with 54% of the vote, its best result to date. It will allow the pro-Russia party to retain control of the government and continue the process of pulling the country further away from Europe and towards closer ties with Moscow.

    This is despite the fact that there has been consistently strong popular support for EU integration and growing dissatisfaction toward Georgian Dream’s increasingly pro-Russian policies.

    The difference between public opinion as expressed by independent polling in both Moldova and Georgia and the outcomes of these votes has raised suspicions of interference. These suspicions have been further corroborated by international and domestic election monitoring organisations raising concerns that the elections were not entirely free and fair.

    The pro-European camps in both Moldova and Georgia say Russia is behind this. There is a suggestion that these efforts are part of Russia’s multifaceted hybrid warfare. It’s a campaign aimed at destabilising these countries and hindering their European integration.

    Russia has long manipulated domestic fears and grievances. The Kremlin and its agents have strong influence over media, civil society organisations and the orthodox church.

    Both Moldova and Georgia also have a Russian military presence. In Moldova this is in the breakaway region of Transnistria, where there is a “peacekeeping force” of about 2,000 troops. Georgia has two pro-Russia breakaways making up 20% of the total land area of the country, Abkhazia and South Ossetia.

    The war in Ukraine has also heightened concerns in both both countries about Moscow’s ambitions towards them. Georgia’s ruling Georgian Dream party campaigned for a closer relationship with Russia.

    Its slogan, “No to war! Choose peace!” contrasted peace and alignment with Russia with being dragged into a war by the west. In Moldova opposition parties used similar rhetoric, calling for Russian protection and framing EU integration as a threat to national sovereignty. This resonated particularly among Russian-speaking populations.

    Russia’s influencers have also escalated cultural tensions in both countries. In Moldova, Moscow-backed opposition groups have rallied conservative segments of society to fight against governments efforts to introduce EU-aligned anti-discrimination legislation.

    Similarly, the Georgian Dream party introduced Russian-style anti-LGBTQ+ legislation in Georgia to appeal to the traditional family values of conservative and religious voters. By leveraging such issues, Russia has aimed to exploit people’s cultural concerns, to increase political polarisation, and to affect political choices.

    Follow the money

    But the most important way the Kremlin, or people associated with Russia, is interfering in the domestic politics of Georgia and Moldova is money. In the case of Moldova, fugitive pro-Moscow tycoon Ilan Shor (who lives in Moscow after being found guilty of fraud in Moldova) has been accused of bribery and helping orchestrate electoral fraud. Shor has denied any wrongdoing connected to the election.

    Georgian banking and tech billionaire Bidzina Ivanishvili one of the country’s wealthiest oligarchs, founded Georgian Dream in 2012. He has been described in one article as “the man who bought a country”. With a fortune worth the equivalent of 25% of Georgia’s GDP, he is thought to wield an outsize influence in the country’s politics, influence he reportedly uses to “tilt the country towards Moscow” (although some say he primarily furthers his own interests).

    Ivanishvili himself, announcing his return to mainstream politics in 2023 as the honorary chair of Georgian Dream, said the party’s role was to “protect our national identity, restore state sovereignty and territorial integrity, and transform Georgian into a high-income state till 2030 and bring it into the European Union”.

    In the conditions in these countries, individuals’ vast resources can be used unchecked for political activities. The influx of funds disadvantages opposing parties, who don’t have access to similar financial backing. They have created a lopsided political environment that favours Russian-aligned candidates.

    There is also a risk that informal or unchecked financing could also have funded election day irregularities. Reports of vote buying, ballot stuffing and violence at polling stations were observed in both countries.

    In one incident in Moldova captured by the BBC, a woman from Transnistria, where people still hold Moldovan citizenship, was filmed openly inquiring where she should go to receive payment for her vote.

    In Georgia, Ivanishvili’s influence allegedly extends to civil servants and the electoral commission as well as the judiciary, which rules on complaints of vote rigging. Claiming victory shortly after polls closed, Ivanishvili said: “It is a rare case in the world that the same party achieves such success in such a difficult situation.”

    The exact impact of Russian interference remains difficult to prove. But the dramatic apparent shifts in electoral sentiment are highly suggestive. This kind of election interference opens the door for autocratic leaders to gradually dismantle democratic institutions.

    This then allows them to enact further illiberal policies, such as the hated recent “foreign agents” law modelled after similar Russian legislation, which targets pro-democracy civil society organisations critical of the government.

    Moldovans are now preparing to vote in the run-off election on November 3, which will determine the immediate future of the country and could affect its future relationship with Europe. Many Georgians, meanwhile – led by the country’s president, Salome Zourabichvili – have taken to the streets to protest what Zourabichvili has called the “total falsification” of the vote.

    If she and Sandu are right, Russia – along with its supporters – appears to be trying to achieve, through this “hybrid warfare” in Georgia and Moldova, what it is striving for on the battlefield in Ukraine: regaining control over currently free nations that used to be Russia’s obedient satellites.

    Amy Eaglestone 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. Russia is meddling in politics in Georgia and Moldova – trying to do by stealth what it is doing by war in Ukraine – https://theconversation.com/russia-is-meddling-in-politics-in-georgia-and-moldova-trying-to-do-by-stealth-what-it-is-doing-by-war-in-ukraine-242135

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Gaza: can the UN suspend Israel over its treatment of Palestinians? It’s complicated, but yes

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Aidan Hehir, Reader in International Relations, University of Westminster

    “Where is the UN?” is a question that has often been asked since the start of Israel’s military offensive in Gaza. As the death toll rises and the conflict spreads, the UN appears woefully unable to fulfil its mandate to save humanity “from the scourge of war” – as it was set up to do.

    While the UN secretary-general, António Guterres, has repeatedly condemned Israel – and been banned from the country for his pains – his pleas have been ignored. Attempts by the UN to sanction Israel have also failed. UN sanctions require the UN security council’s consent. The US has used its power as a permanent member to veto draft resolutions seeking to do so.



    Read more:
    Hard Evidence: who uses veto in the UN Security Council most often – and for what?

    There have also been calls to suspend Israel from the UN. On October 30, the UN special rapporteur on the right to food, Michael Fakhri, called on the UN general assembly to suspend Israel’s membership because, as he said: “Israel is attacking the UN system.”

    Francesca Albanese, UN special rapporteur on human rights in the Palestinian territories is reported to have told a news conference the same day that the UN should “consider the suspension of Israel’s credentials as a member of the UN until it ends violating international law and withdraws the ‘clearly unlawful’ occupation.”

    But suspending a member is more complicated and politically fraught than many appreciate.

    Israel and the UN

    For decades, Israel’s relationship with the UN has been fractious. This is primarily because of the UN’s stance on what it refers to as Israel’s “unlawful presence” in what it defines as
    “occupied territories” in Palestine. In the past 12 months of the latest conflict in Gaza, this relationship has deteriorated further.

    Many have argued that Israel has repeatedly violated UN resolutions and treaties, including the genocide convention during its campaign in Gaza. Some UN officials have accused Israel – and certain Palestinian groups – of committing war crimes. Israel has also come into direct conflict with UN agencies – some 230 UN personnel have been killed during the offensive, and many governments and UN officials have alleged that Israel deliberately targeted UN peacekeepers in Lebanon.

    But the enmity between Israel and the UN came to a head on October 28, when the Israeli parliament, the Knesset, banned the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (Unrwa) from operating inside Israel, sparking a wave of condemnation.

    The UN’s powers

    Given this open hostility towards the UN, it is not surprising that some are now calling for Israel’s membership to be suspended.

    But can the UN legally suspend a member? The answer is yes. Under articles 5 and 6 of the UN charter a member state may be suspended or expelled if it is found to have “persistently violated the Principles contained in the present Charter”.

    But articles 5 and 6 both state that suspension and expulsion require the consent of the general assembly as well as “the recommendation of the security council”. As such, suspending Israel requires the consent of the five permanent security council members: the US, UK, China, Russia and France.

    And, given the US’s past record and current president Joe Biden’s affirmation of his “ironclad support” for Israel, this is effectively inconceivable. But while it is, therefore, highly unlikely that articles 5 or 6 will be invoked against Israel, there remains a potentially feasible option.

    The South Africa precedent

    At the start of each annual general assembly session, the credentials committee reviews submissions from each member state before they are formally admitted. Usually, this is a formality, but on September 27 1974, the credentials of South Africa – which was then operating an apartheid system – were rejected.

    Tanzanian ambasador to the UN, Salim A. Salim, announces that South Africa has been suspended fdrom the UN, November 1974.
    Teddy Chen/photograph courtesy of the United Nations

    Three days later, the general assembly passed resolution 3207 which called on the security council to, “review the relationship between the United Nations and South Africa in light of the constant violation by South Africa of the principles of the Charter”.

    A draft resolution calling for South Africa’s expulsion was eventually put to the security council at the end of October, but it was vetoed by the US, the UK and France.

    However, on November 12, the president of the general assembly, Algeria’s Abdelaziz Bouteflika, ruled that given the credentials committee’s decision and the passing of resolution 3207, “the general assembly refuses to allow the delegation of South Africa to participate in its work”. South Africa remained suspended from the general assembly until June 1994 following the ending of apartheid.

    It is important to note that South Africa was not formally suspended from the UN, only the general assembly. Nonetheless, it was a hugely significant move.

    A viable solution?

    Could the same measure be applied against Israel and would it be effective? The South Africa case shows it is legally possible. It would also undoubtedly send a powerful message, simultaneously increasing Israel’s international isolation and restoring some much needed faith in the UN.

    The 79th session of the UN general assembly began in September, so it’s too late for the credentials committee to reject Israel. But this could conceivably happen prior to the 80th session next year, if there was sufficient political will. But this is a big “if”.

    Though a majority of states in the general assembly are highly critical of Israel, many do not want the credentials committee to become more politically selective because they fear this could be used against them in the future. Likewise, few want to incur the wrath of the US by suspending its ally.

    As ever, what is legally possible and what is politically likely are two very different things.

    Aidan Hehir 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. Gaza: can the UN suspend Israel over its treatment of Palestinians? It’s complicated, but yes – https://theconversation.com/gaza-can-the-un-suspend-israel-over-its-treatment-of-palestinians-its-complicated-but-yes-242559

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: An additional $22.2 million to support farm businesses affected by weather hazards in 2023

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    News release

    Canada-Quebec Initiative to Help Mitigate the Impacts of Excess Rainfall in Quebec in 2023

    October 31, 2024 – Quebec City, Quebec – Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

    The Government of Canada and the Government of Quebec are launching the Canada-Quebec Initiative to Help Mitigate the Impacts of Excess Rainfall in Quebec in 2023 (known as AgriRecovery). The Canada-Quebec Initiative will provide $22,2 million in addition to the sums already allocated by existing programs. The financial support will partially offset the extraordinary costs incurred by vegetable, potato, strawberry and raspberry growers affected by the exceptionally adverse weather conditions of summer 2023.

    André Lamontagne, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food and Minister responsible for the Centre-du-Québec Region, and the Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, made the announcement today.

    Here are the key points for companies affected by the Initiative:

    • The registration form will be available in December 2024 in the producer’s online account at La Financière agricole du Québec (FADQ).
    • The registration period will run from December 2024 to February 2025.
    • The registration will be online only, and no paper forms will be made available.
    • If necessary, a FADQ staff member will contact the company to obtain information or request additional supporting documents.
    • To demonstrate that they have incurred costs beyond their capacity, companies will have to provide financial data covering the 2022 and 2023 growing seasons if they have not already done so. They will also have to meet the Initiative’s criteria, in particular having incurred a given level of expenditure for the categories eligible for the Initiative.

    In the meantime, companies are asked to create or update their FADQ online account. If they need assistance in this regard, they are asked to contact their service centre.

    To speed up the processing of applications, if they have not already done so, companies participating in AgriStability are encouraged to submit their financial data for the 2023 participation year to the FADQ as soon as possible. For companies not participating in AgriStability, it will be possible to register by filing audited tax documents, such as the T2042 form.

    Full participation details will be available shortly on the FADQ website.

    Quotes

    “Our farmers work so hard every single day, often in the face of different challenges, including unpredictable weather. Our government will always be there to support them and help them build resilience, so they can continue to produce the top-quality products they have become known for.”

    – The Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food

    “For our government, it was essential to come to the aid of agricultural businesses to respond to the consequences of exceptional weather, which were disastrous for many of them. I would like to take this opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to supporting farms in their efforts to improve their resilience to the impacts of climate change, for a strong, agile and competitive sector.”

    – André Lamontagne, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food and Minister responsible for the Centre-du-Québec Region

    Quick facts

    • Summer 2023 was characterized by abundant and frequent rainfall in the regions of Montérégie, Capitale-Nationale, Laurentides, Montréal-Laval-Lanaudière, Chaudière-Appalaches, Mauricie, Estrie, Centre-du-Québec, Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean, Outaouais, Bas-Saint-Laurent, Gaspésie–Îles-de-la-Madeleine and Côte-Nord.

    • Production losses, combined with the extraordinary costs due to the situation, have had an impact on the liquidity and financial capacity of Quebec horticultural companies.

    • The Initiative, which will be administered by the FADQ, stems from the AgriRecovery disaster relief framework under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership Multilateral Framework Agreement.

    • AgriRecovery is a federal-provincial/territorial disaster relief framework. It is more precisely designed to help agricultural producers meet the extraordinary costs of recovering from natural disasters. AgriRecovery initiatives are cost-shared by the federal government and the provinces and territories concerned on a 60%-40% basis, as set out by the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP).

    • In addition to risk management programs, the Initiative completes a series of measures put in place by the FADQ and the Ministère de l’Agriculture, des Pêcheries et de l’Alimentation (MAPAQ) to support horticultural producers following the excess rainfall in 2023, for example:

      • Introduction of the Mesure complémentaire pour certaines productions horticoles affectées lors de la saison de culture 2023 (Complementary assistance measure for certain horticultural crops affected during the 2023 growing season). This measure offers assistance, which is complementary to the Agri-Québec Plus assistance, which allows the company to record at most $200,000 in net profit, depending on the number of shareholders or the equivalent established by the FADQ;
      • $30 million increase in the Working Capital component of the Sustainable Growth Investment Program, for a total of $55 million;
      • Grant of $50,000 in financial assistance to the Association des producteurs maraîchers du Québec to conduct a study explaining the low rate of enrollment in crop insurance;
      • Payment of indemnities in advance at the request of producers;
      • Extension of warehouse loss coverage for some crops;
      • Extensions of sowing deadlines for market garden crops;

    • Cancellation of the account-to-account policy for companies that request it.

    • Financial assistance could reach up to $904 per hectare for vegetable crops and potatoes, and up to $3,613 per hectare for strawberries and raspberries.

    • This announcement is the result of discussions and exchanges between various stakeholders involved.

    • Agricultural associations and the MAPAQ continue their collaboration to adapt the sector to climate change.

    Associated links

    Contacts

    For media:

    Annie Cullinan
    Director of Communications
    Office of the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food
    annie.cullinan@agr.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
    Ottawa, Ontario
    613-773-7972
    1-866-345-7972
    aafc.mediarelations-relationsmedias.aac@agr.gc.ca
    Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn
    Web: Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

    Makena Mahoney
    Minister’s Office
    Makena.Mahoney@ontario.ca

    Meaghan Evans
    Communications Branch
    OMAFRA.media@ontario.ca
    519-826-3145

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: GBA ambulance transfers set for Nov

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government today conducted a second drill for the Pilot Scheme for Direct Cross-boundary Ambulance Transfer in the Greater Bay Area, which is expected to launch next month.

    It carried out the drill in collaboration with the Guangdong Provincial Government and the Shenzhen Municipal Government to observe the simulated transfer of a patient by a cross-boundary ambulance.

    Having obtained the quota for cross-boundary ambulances of Guangdong and Hong Kong, the Shenzhen ambulance participating in the drill today is able to travel between Hong Kong and Shenzhen with dual licence plates of the Mainland and Hong Kong, further streamlining the actual operation and procedures for the direct ambulance transfer.

    Secretary for Health Prof Lo Chung-mau, together with relevant representatives of the Guangdong Provincial Government and the Shenzhen Municipal Government inspected the drill at the Hospital Authority’s Major Incident Control Centre.

    Prof Lo noted that the governments of the three places have finalised the mechanism and procedures for the direct cross-boundary ambulance transfer in the Greater Bay Area (GBA).

    He expressed confidence that the pilot scheme could be launched next month to provide a point-to-point transfer arrangement between designated hospitals for patients with specific clinical needs, adding that by then, patients can be transferred in a safer, more timely and convenient manner.

    The direct cross-boundary ambulance transfer arrangement in the GBA concerns not only patients’ safety but also the cross-boundary travel of vehicles, healthcare personnel, medication and devices as well as dangerous goods for medical use, the health chief noted.

    He said the Hong Kong SAR Government will keep deepening collaboration with other GBA cities and harmonise rules and mechanisms among the bay area cities to ensure safety for entry or exit and quarantine.

    The pilot scheme is limited to transfers between designated hospitals with the first phase focusing on the arrangement of direct ambulance transfer of patients from designated hospitals in Shenzhen and Macau to designated public hospitals in Hong Kong.

    The University of Hong Kong – Shenzhen Hospital and the Conde S. Januario Hospital of Macao are the designated hospitals.

    The cross-boundary ambulance mechanism will only be activated when a prior agreement between these two sending hospitals and designated public hospitals in Hong Kong has been reached in advance.

    They have to take the clinical needs, safety and interests of patients as the prime concerns, and have a mechanism in place to avoid abuse, while ensuring the safety of cross-boundary transfer.

    Prof Lo also thanked various national ministries, including the State Council’s Hong Kong & Macao Affairs Office, the National Health Commission and the General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China for the successful implementation of the transfer arrangement, and their support and guidance.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Euan Hutton permanently appointed as Sellafield CEO

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Euan Hutton has been permanently appointed the Sellafield CEO, effective from  1 November 2024, having fulfilled the role on an interim basis since July 2023.

    In confirming Euan’s appointment, Sellafield Ltd’s Chairman, Chris Train, said:

    I am pleased to announce that, with support from the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA), UK Government and Sellafield Ltd Board, I have today appointed Euan Hutton permanently to the role of Sellafield Ltd CEO.

    Euan has been interim CEO since July last year, and has demonstrated his integrity and expertise, meeting challenges head on.  Anyone who knows Euan will know that he has the deepest respect for the people of Sellafield Ltd and the communities around us.

    I am confident that Euan is the right leader for Sellafield Ltd and that he will continue to deliver what the organisation needs.

    Euan, who lives near Cockermouth, began his career on the Sellafield Ltd graduate programme. He has held positions at Sellafield and across the UK and international nuclear industry during his 31-year career.

    He has extensive experience of Sellafield’s operations and challenges, having served in a number of senior leadership roles, including Chief Nuclear Officer.

    Welcoming Euan’s permanent appointment, NDA Chief Executive David Peattie, said:

    I want to personally thank Euan for his dedication since taking on the role of interim CEO in July last year, and to acknowledge the progress we’ve seen under his leadership.    

    Euan’s passion and commitment for the business, its nationally important mission and the people working to deliver it, is clear.

    I am pleased he will now be instrumental in leading Sellafield’s next chapter, and enabling us to deliver our collective goal, to create a clean and safe environment for future generations.

    Euan said:

    It is an honour to continue to lead Sellafield Ltd as we enter what I believe will be the company’s most exciting chapter yet.

    At Sellafield we must continue to make progress in tackling one of the biggest environmental remediation challenges in the UK. We must also continue to bring our skills to bear on supporting other national priorities – from security of energy supply through spent fuel management, or national security through world-class guardianship of special nuclear materials.

    At the heart of our complex work are the people of Sellafield Ltd and I want to thank them for their support, dedication, and flexibility over the last year. It is their skills and expertise that gives me confidence as I look to the challenges and opportunities ahead.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: FCDO Indo-Pacific Minister statement on North Korea ICBM launch

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The UK has condemned the launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile by North Korea on 30 October.

    FCDO Minister for the Indo-Pacific Catherine West said:

    The UK condemns the latest launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile on 30 October by North Korea; these actions clearly breach multiple UN Security Council Resolutions (UNSCRs).

    Unlawful ballistic missile launches are deeply damaging for regional stability and continue to destabilise the peace and security of the Korean Peninsula.

    The UK will continue to call out violations of UNSCRs. We urge North Korea to refrain from illegal launches, return to dialogue, and abandon its illegal nuclear and ballistic weapons programme.

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Contact the FCDO Communication Team via email (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Denis Manturov held another meeting on providing assistance to the Kursk region

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The meeting was attended by the head of the region, Alexey Smirnov, representatives of the Government Office, and federal executive authorities.

    The issues discussed included providing all types of assistance to the population and enterprises of the region, organizing medical services, the operation of housing and communal services systems and resource supply organizations, and the execution of the regional budget.

    Alexey Smirnov informed First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov that the Kursk Region government is constantly interacting with the federal center on issues of supporting border residents. As the governor noted, to date, almost all victims have received one-time payments. Work on the remaining applicants will be completed in the near future. At the moment, payments to residents of the Kursk Region for full or partial loss of property, payments due for damage to health, and housing certificates are being issued.

    Denis Manturov noted the need to maintain constant interaction between federal executive authorities and the region and promptly consider requests received from the Kursk region.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: October Oil and Gas Public Offering Generates $7.3 Million in Revenue

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on October 31, 2024

    The Government of Saskatchewan’s Crown oil and natural gas public offering, held on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, raised $7,304,936.95 for the province, with the Estevan area generating the majority of the revenue.

    Of the 112 parcels posted for this offering, 93 received acceptable bids, covering a total 15,347.639 hectares.

    The Estevan area generated the most financial interest, bringing in $5,417,916.25 for 56 leases and one exploration licence for a total of 8,330.517 hectares.

    The Kindersley area generated $1,325,636.53 for 21 leases for a total of 5,063.604 hectares.

    Surge Energy Inc. made the highest bonus bid and the highest dollars-per-hectare bid in its offering of $1,369,276.03, or $5,284.76 per hectare. This was for a 259.099 hectare lease in the Estevan area, northeast of Macoun. 

    Millennium Land (444) Ltd. won the single exploration licence posted in this offering, bidding $407,670.71 for a 2,318.023 hectare licence in the Estevan area, south of Minton.

    After four public offerings this fiscal year, the provincial government has raised $37,382,523.18 in revenue. The next offering is scheduled for December 3, 2024. 

    There are six scheduled public offerings of oil and natural gas dispositions held each fiscal year in Saskatchewan. This process uses an open and competitive bidding system to issue oil and natural gas dispositions.

    Several factors affect public offering activity, including changes in oil and gas prices, land availability, geological and technological constraints and various market conditions.

    For more information about oil and gas public offerings in Saskatchewan, please visit the Schedule of Public Offerings webpage on saskatchewan.ca. 

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Combined Joint Operations from the Sea Centre of Excellence Hosts Maritime Security Regimes Roundtable

    Source: United States Navy (Fleet Command)

    by Commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet Public Affairs

    31 October 2024

    NORFOLK, Va. —

    The Combined Joint Operations from the Sea Centre of Excellence (CJOS COE) hosted the Maritime Security Regimes Roundtable on Oct. 29-30, 2024, gathering key stakeholders to address global maritime security challenges and foster collaboration across sectors.

    CJOS regularly collaborates with industry and academic institutions, bridging military and civilian expertise to stay at the forefront of technological advancements and conceptual thinking. This year’s theme was “Maritime 360: Securing Our Seas in an Increasingly Complex and Connected World,” which highlighted the critical importance of cooperation in facing global maritime threats. Military officials, government authorities, industry leaders, and academic representatives gathered for discussions that emphasized the wide-ranging concerns of today’s maritime security environment.

    During his opening remarks, Vice Adm. Doug Perry, commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet, commander, Joint Force Command Norfolk, and director, CJOS COE, acknowledged the diverse group of participants.

    “It is imperative that we focus on maritime security at every level of our future planning,” said Perry. “Our robust maritime network is an advantage that our adversaries cannot match, and we grow stronger with every opportunity we have to work together.”

    The event featured a two-day agenda. The first day focused on both ongoing and emerging maritime threats, including discussions on the Red Sea, Arctic and Baltic security, and challenges in the South China Sea and Gulf of Guinea. The discussions incorporated both military and commercial perspectives, ensuring a comprehensive approach to maritime security.

    The second day shifted to industry and technological innovations, with presentations on advanced maritime technologies and their applications for current and future security needs. By incorporating these forward-looking solutions, the roundtable aimed to enhance the readiness and resilience of maritime forces.

    “The Alliance must maintain that collective advantage – our governments and our people demand it,” said Perry. “Maintaining an international rules-based order as a guiding global principle, requires us to tackle our challenges together. Not just with the force of our militaries, but with diplomacy, advice from our scholars, the ingenuity of our industry, and the will of our free people as represented by our governments.”

    Leaders from Maritime Security Working Groups closed the event with updates on their accomplishments throughout the year, reinforcing the importance of collective action in maintaining a secure maritime domain.

    CJOS COE, established in May 2006, plays a pivotal role in advancing maritime-based joint operations within NATO. Based in the United States, it is the only Centre of Excellence headquartered in the country and one of 30 NATO-accredited centers worldwide. Representing 13 nations, the organization focuses on driving innovation, concept development, and the formulation of doctrine and standards in support of NATO’s goals.

    “We have a long-standing, close, and hugely successful partnership that is central to CJOS’ efforts to help foster a prosperous and safe maritime environment,” said Commodore Philip Nash, Royal Navy, deputy director, CJOS COE. “Combining our strengths creates new perspectives and solutions to meet the global maritime security challenges facing our NATO Alliance today.”

    As an independent entity, CJOS COE is not part of NATO’s Command structure but serves as a critical resource, leveraging the expertise of its 13 sponsoring nations and its close relationship with U.S. Fleet Forces and U.S. 2nd Fleet. This collaboration ensures that NATO’s maritime forces remain agile and capable of adapting to evolving threats.

    CJOS COE’s partnerships with Allied Command Transformation, Allied Maritime Command, and other NATO Centres of Excellence to further enhance its ability to foster cooperation across borders. These efforts ensure that NATO’s maritime forces remain at the cutting edge of modern military doctrine and technology.

    With a team of 25 permanent staff members, CJOS COE maintains the flexibility to respond quickly to the evolving needs of its stakeholders. This diverse group brings a wide range of perspectives, enhancing the Centre’s ability to shape future maritime strategies effectively.

    Through its commitment to collaboration, innovation, and the sharing of best practices, CJOS COE continues to strengthen NATO’s maritime capabilities, ensuring the Alliance remains ready to meet the challenges of modern maritime operations.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: McKeesport Felon Charged for Possession of Firearm and Ammunition

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of McKeesport, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

    The one-count Indictment named Richard L. Edwards Jr., 49, as the sole defendant. Edwards was arrested on August 9, 2024, by the City of McKeesport Police Department related to this charge.

    According to the Indictment, on or about August 9, 2024, Edwards, who was previously convicted of a felony, was found to be in possession of a Ruger Security-9 semi-automatic pistol, a Smith and Wesson SD40 VE semi-automatic pistol, a Smith and Wesson .357 Magnum revolver, and one Winchester 1300 20-gauge shotgun, as well as 20-gauge ammunition, .357 Magnum ammunition, 38 Special ammunition, and 40 caliber ammunition. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.

    The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 15 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000 or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

    Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

    Westmoreland County Adult Probation, the City of McKeesport Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Israel’s relations with the UN hit a new low with Unrwa ban

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Lisa Strömbom, Ph D, Associate Professor, Lund University

    Israel’s relationship with the United Nations has historically been strained, but over the past year, tensions have reached new levels. On October 28, the Israeli parliament (the Knesset) passed a law to prohibit operations of the UN’s relief and works agency (Unrwa) – the UN body responsible for Palestinian refugees – within the territory it controls. It’s a legal and political development which many fear will have grave humanitarian consequences for Palestinians in Gaza and beyond.

    The decision also prompts questions about what lies ahead for the increasingly divisive relationship between the government of Benjamin Netanyahu and the UN. There is even speculation that the Unrwa ban could lead to Israel being expelled from the UN general assembly.

    Israel’s relations with the UN have long been fractious. But Unrwa has come in for particular criticism from successive Israeli governments over the years.

    The agency was set up in 1949 to support Palestinian refugees displaced during the 1948 Arab-Israeli war. What was originally intended to be a temporary agency has now operated for more than seven decades, thanks to the unending hostilities between Israel and the Palestinian people. In addition to humanitarian assistance, Unrwa provides education, healthcare and a range of social services to Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank.

    Unrwa’s schools have been a particular bugbear for Israeli critics. It has been pointed out that textbooks provided by the Palestinian Authority and used in some Unrwa schools were “pivotal in radicalising generations of Gazans”. There have also been allegations that money intended to support Unrwa relief works has been finding its way to Hamas.

    But it was the alleged involvement of Unrwa employees in the October 7 attack on Israel, spearheaded by Hamas, that brought the issue to a head earlier this year. In January, Israel presented Joe Biden’s US administration with a dossier that purported to present evidence that 12 Unrwa staff had taken an active part in the attack. The UN announced it had dismissed the surviving staff named in the dossier – but the accusations led several countries to suspend their Unrwa funding.



    Read more:
    Gaza conflict: what is UNRWA and why is Israel calling for its abolition?

    Unrwa’s commissioner-general, Philippe Lazzarini, described the suspension of funding as a “collective punishment”. He said it would have grave consequences for Gaza’s civilians who were – and remain – at high risk of famine.

    An independent review set up by Lazzarini reported in April and found no evidence that the agency had been infiltrated by Hamas. Instead, it stressed how Unrwa’s work was an “indispensable lifeline” for civilians in Gaza and the West Bank. As a result, international funding of Unrwa was resumed by all countries but the US.

    At loggerheads

    Now Israel has gone a step further and banned Unrwa operations. This appears to be the latest blow in a campaign of hostility against the UN that has been years in the making.

    In recent years, Netanyahu’s anti-UN rhetoric has escalated considerably. In 2022, the UN general assembly (UNGA) voted in favour of a resolution calling for the International Court of Justice to give its opinion on Israel’s “prolonged occupation, settlement and annexation of Palestinian territory”. Netanyahu called the decision “despicable”. He refused to recognise the vote, saying:

    Like hundreds of the twisted decisions against Israel taken by the UNGA over the years, today’s despicable decision will not bind the Israeli government. The Jewish nation is not an occupier in its own land and its own eternal capital, Jerusalem.

    Netanyahu condemns ‘despicable’ UN vote.

    During the past year, as it has continued its assault on Gaza, Israel’s efforts to delegitimise the UN have also intensified. At the beginning of October, after Iran had launched a barrage of rockets at Israeli military installations, Israel barred the UN secretary general, António Guterres, from entering the country. Foreign minister Israel Katz commented: “Anyone who cannot unequivocally condemn Iran’s heinous attack on Israel … does not deserve to set foot on Israeli soil.”

    Meanwhile, units of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have been involved in a number of incidents which have threatened the safety of UN peacekeepers in southern Lebanon (Unifil). The peacekeepers are there under a mandate to safeguard Lebanese civilians in the area, where Israel has been conducting what it calls its “military operation” since the beginning of October. Many scholars of international law believe the IDF’s actions could be interpreted as war crimes.



    Read more:
    Is targeting UN peacekeepers in Lebanon a war crime? Here’s what international law says

    This in turn led to a public spat with the French president, Emmanuel Macron. Calling on Israel to respect the neutrality of Unifil peacekeepers, Macron said Netanyahu should “not forget that his country was created by a decision of the UN” – to which Netanyahu replied:

    It was not the UN resolution that established the state of Israel, but rather the victory achieved in the war of independence with the blood of heroic fighters, many of whom were Holocaust survivors, including from the Vichy regime in France.

    The last clause was a pointed reminder that a section of the French government collaborated with the Nazi regime in the extermination of French Jews.

    International condemnation

    But it’s the decision to bar Unrwa from Israel that has drawn the harshest international criticism, and which threatens to further isolate the country diplomatically. The UN secretary general has been joined by the EU and US in urging Israel to reconsider.

    Washington has already been highly critical of what it describes as “Israeli efforts to starve Palestinians” in parts of Gaza, and the US and UK are both reported to be considering suspending arms sales to Israel.

    Amnesty International, meanwhile, said the law “amounts to the criminalisation of humanitarian aid and will worsen an already catastrophic humanitarian crisis”. But Israel has signalled it intends to hold firm, while insisting it will “continue to do everything in its power” to ensure that aid continues to reach “ordinary Gazans”.

    But the vast majority of Gaza’s population is now displaced. Most of the built infrastructure – including hospitals – has been destroyed. And Israel’s military operations are forcing most civilians out of the north of the Gaza Strip. So, the question now is whether the effective crippling of the largest international aid agency working in Gaza will simply make matters worse for the people living there.

    Lisa Strömbom 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. Israel’s relations with the UN hit a new low with Unrwa ban – https://theconversation.com/israels-relations-with-the-un-hit-a-new-low-with-unrwa-ban-242512

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo, Smith Statement on Biden Administration’s Taiwan Double-Tax Relief Announcement

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo
    Published: October 30, 2024

    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and U.S. House Ways and Means Committee Chair Jason Smith (R-Missouri) issued the following statement on the Biden Administration’s Taiwan double-tax relief announcement:
    “Last year, our committees worked closely together and consulted with the Administration to carefully craft a legislative package providing both expedited double-tax relief through the tax code and paving the way for future agreements on additional double-tax relief.  This legislation—which passed unanimously through the Ways and Means Committee, and the expedited double tax relief provisions of which passed unanimously through the Senate Finance Committee—remains the best path forward to address double taxation between the U.S. and Taiwan.  Unfortunately, the timing of the Biden-Harris Administration’s announcement appears to be driven more by politics than an effort to provide expedited tax relief.  Pursuing an approach that does not harmonize with the Congressionally-endorsed framework could jeopardize delivering that relief, impeding the shared goal of facilitating broader investment between the U.S. and Taiwan to promote our collective prosperity, national security, and economic resilience.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper, Bennet Bipartisan Colleagues Push for More Temporary Work Visas to Help Small Businesses in Colorado

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Colorado John Hickenlooper

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper and Michael Bennet joined U.S. Senators Angus King and Mike Rounds, alongside 37 of their bipartisan colleagues, to urge the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to release the maximum number of additional temporary, non-agricultural (H-2B) visas for fiscal year 2025 to support local economies and fill needed roles for American small businesses.

    “Many employers turn to the H-2B program to meet their workforce needs to not only sustain their businesses, but also support their American workers,” wrote the senators. “The H-2B program places requirements on employers to recruit U.S. workers, who are intentionally prioritized by the program and also receive demonstrated, positive impacts from their seasonal colleagues.”

    In Colorado, more than 8,400 temporary H-2B visas were requested by over 250 employers in fiscal year 2021 – reflecting a strong demand for H-2B workers in the state. The H-2B program permits employers to temporarily hire noncitizens to perform nonagricultural labor or services for a limited period of time, such as a one-time occurrence, seasonal, or intermittent need.

    In the letter, the senators highlight recent data from DOL’s Job Openings and Labor Turnover Surveys that shows that the rate of job openings have increased annually for top five H-2B occupations. Landscaping, hospitality, and the ski industry – all key to Colorado’s economy – are among the industries with the highest share of certified H-2B workers

    “As you know, the FY 2025 H-2B first half fiscal year cap was met on September 18, 2024—roughly three weeks earlier than the cap was met in FY 2024. The result is that seasonal employers whose peak seasons are in late fall and winter are capped out before their period of seasonal need begins. Absent cap relief, these employers will be unable to receive temporary, U.S. government-vetted guest workers,” continued the senators.

    Hickenlooper previously introduced the SEASONAL Act which would permit governors to petition the federal government for supplemental H-2B visas beyond the national cap of 66,000. Hickenlooper and Bennet have also pushed DHS and DOL to increase the availability of H-2B visas and worked to ensure that the visa program is efficient and effective.

    The text of the letter is available HERE and below.

    Dear Secretaries Mayorkas and Su:

    We write on behalf of seasonal businesses in our states—including employers of housekeepers in tourist destinations, landscapers with defined seasons, seafood processors with short harvesting windows, and fairs and carnivals—who are struggling to hire a sufficient number of temporary, seasonal laborers to support their operations.

    In light of these labor shortages, we strongly urge the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), in consultation with the Department of Labor (DOL), to utilize the authority provided by Congress in the FY2025 Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act to release the maximum allowable number of additional H-2B visas for Fiscal Year 2025, as you did for Fiscal Year 2024. These visas will help employers handle their labor challenges, and provide additional certainty regarding their workforce planning decisions in the coming months. We urge you to promptly publish a temporary rule implementing the release of these supplemental visas.

    Many employers turn to the H-2B program to meet their workforce needs to not only sustain their businesses, but also support their American workers. The H-2B program places requirements on employers to recruit U.S. workers, who are intentionally prioritized by the program and also receive demonstrated, positive impacts from their seasonal colleagues. In fact, a 2020 Government Accountability Office report concluded that “counties with H-2B employers generally had lower unemployment rates and higher average weekly wages than counties that do not have any H-2B employers.”

    The most current employment data illustrates the workforce struggles of seasonal businesses nationwide. The Department of Labor’s Job Openings and Labor Turnover Surveys (JOLTS) show the rate of job openings have increased year over year for the industries that represent the top five H-2B occupations. As you know, the FY 2025 H-2B first half fiscal year cap was met on September 18, 2024—roughly three weeks earlier than the cap was met in FY 2024. The result is that seasonal employers whose peak seasons are in late fall and winter are capped out before their period of seasonal need begins. Absent cap relief, these employers will be unable to receive temporary, U.S. government-vetted guest workers. Congress has acknowledged this seasonal labor shortage by providing DHS with the authority to lift the H-2B visa cap for each of the past eight fiscal years. Given the growing demand for H-2B workers as employers continue to struggle with staffing shortages, we encourage you to promptly promulgate a temporary final rule for FY 2025 along the same lines as the FY 2024 rule.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Housing (Scotland) Bill rent cap proposed

    Source: Scottish Government

    Increases capped at CPI+1% up to a maximum of 6%.

    An amendment to the Housing Bill will set out how rent increases will be capped in areas where rent controls apply, subject to the approval of Parliament.

    In response to stakeholder feedback, rent increases would be limited to the Consumer Price Index (a measure of inflation) plus 1%, up to a maximum increase of 6%. If approved, the rent cap will apply to rent increases both during the term of a tenancy and in between tenancies, and will only apply in areas where rent control is applied.

    Where it applies, the rent cap will stabilise rents – supporting tenants and helping to tackle poverty, whilst providing appropriate protection for the property rights of landlords and supporting investment.

    A consultation in Spring 2025 will seek views on how powers that allow exemption from rent controls or rent increases above the cap could be used by Scottish Ministers.

    Housing Minister Paul McLennan said:

    “The Housing (Scotland) Bill includes a package of reforms which will help ensure people have a safe, secure, and affordable place to live.

    “Eradicating child poverty remains this government’s priority and having a home can make a direct contribution to achieving this. This is why ensuring families can have secure and affordable homes that meet their needs is part of our approach to tackling the housing emergency.

    “There is a consistent view that Scotland needs a thriving private rented sector – one that offers good quality, affordable housing options and values the benefit that investment in rented property delivers. This announcement provides certainty for tenants and continues to encourage investment.

    “Setting out the form of the rent cap in this way – with CPI as the basis – allows for a reflection of the costs to landlords of offering a property for rent whilst offering protection for tenants in terms of limiting more significant rent increases.

    “We are bringing forward a system of rent control that works for Scotland – a system that supports stabilisation of rents for tenants, whilst ensuring there can be a balanced approach that provides appropriate protection for the property rights of landlords and supports investment in the development of rented homes.”

    Background

    Minister for Housing: Statement on Housing (Scotland) Bill

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –