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Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Residents of 127 buildings received new apartments under the renovation program in September

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    In September, Muscovites completed documents for housing in 75 new buildings under the renovation program. This was reported by the Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the capital’s Department of City Property Maxim Gaman.

    “In September, more than 2.6 thousand city residents from 127 old houses located in 46 districts of the capital received keys to new apartments in 75 modern residential complexes built under the renovation program. The largest number of contracts for new housing in the first month of autumn were signed by residents of the Golyanovo and Izmailovo districts – 727 and 354 people, respectively. In Marfino, 258 city residents became owners of apartments,” said Maxim Gaman.

    For participants in the renovation program, the mos.ru portal has created apartment viewing appointment service. It allows you to choose a convenient date and time for this. The documents required for concluding contracts are prepared by the employees of the population information centers.

    The apartments that Muscovites receive under the renovation program are equipped with electric stoves, plumbing, and lighting fixtures. The area around the new buildings has been landscaped, and playgrounds and sports grounds have been installed. The necessary social infrastructure is located near the buildings.

    Renovation program: about 75 percent of new residents took advantage of the city’s assistance when movingMore than 16 thousand city residents have begun resettlement under the renovation program since the beginning of the yearSobyanin: Individual solutions are being created for all facades of buildings undergoing renovation

    “In September 2024, 11 residential complexes in six districts of the capital were handed over for settlement. Most of them were in the Eastern Administrative District – four new buildings, two each in the southeast and west, one each in the north, south and in the city center,” clarified the Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the capital’s Department of Urban Development Policy

    Vladislav Ovchinsky.

    Earlier Sergei Sobyanin reported, that resettlement under the renovation program has already affected more than 176 thousand city residents.

    The program was approved in August 2017. It concerns about a million Muscovites and provides for the resettlement of 5,176 houses. In 2023 alone, 59 new buildings in the capital were handed over for settlement and the resettlement of over 47 thousand people was ensured. Moscow Mayor ordered to increasethe pace of implementation of the renovation program has doubled.

    The first stage of the renovation program has been completed in 47 districts of MoscowMore than 730 houses in the capital have been resettled under the renovation programIn Moscow, the services of the Smart Home project are being implemented in new buildings under the renovation program

    Moscow is one of the leaders among regions in terms of construction rates and volumes. In recent years, within the framework of the federal project “Housing” of the national project “Housing and Urban Environment” the volume of construction and commissioning of residential properties in the capital has doubled – from three to five to seven million square meters per year. More information about this and other national projects being implemented in Moscow can be found Here.

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

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

    https://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/145403073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The government will finance the repair of hydraulic structures, as well as the clearing of a section of the Kalmius River in the Donetsk People’s Republic

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    Order dated October 14, 2024 No. 2835-r

    Document

    Order dated October 14, 2024 No. 2835-r

    About 270 million rubles will be allocated to a number of regions for the repair and maintenance of hydraulic structures and the improvement of the ecological state of rivers. The order on the redistribution of funding for these purposes was signed by Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin.

    Almost 240 million rubles are intended for work on 177 hydraulic structures in a number of regions. After the spring floods of 2024, in particular, it is necessary to restore damaged soil slopes of dams and canals, clean water drainage channels from silt deposits, eliminate cracks on the surface of concrete structures and restore anti-corrosion protection.

    Federal funding will help improve hydraulic structures that protect 223 cities and towns with a total population of more than 1.1 million people.

    In addition, 30 million rubles will be spent on clearing a 9-kilometer section of the Kalmius River in the Donetsk People’s Republic. This will improve the ecological state of the river within the boundaries of the settlements of Larino, Pavlogradskoye, Pridorozhnoye and others.

    The work is being carried out within the framework of the federal project “Preservation of Unique Water Bodies”.

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

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

    http://government.ru/nevs/53014/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: To the participants of the annual meeting of the BRICS Business Council

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    The annual meeting of the BRICS Business Council and the BRICS Business Forum will be held in Moscow on October 17-18.

    Dear friends!

    I am pleased to welcome the participants of the annual meeting of the BRICS Business Council.

    Since its establishment, the Business Council has become a popular and effective mechanism for strengthening economic cooperation among BRICS countries. It plays an important role in building a dialogue among the business community.

    In the context of ongoing geopolitical transformations, our association faces large-scale tasks. Given the growing sanctions pressure, the disregard of international law and WTO rules by a number of countries, as well as the restructuring of trade and logistics chains, it is necessary to strengthen the global economic system, ensure access to new markets, and create additional opportunities for business. All this is reflected in the priorities of the Russian presidency of BRICS.

    We consider it important to increase the volume of e-commerce and unlock the potential of artificial intelligence. It is important to develop digital entrepreneurship, improve the conditions for the active implementation of modern technologies by large companies, small and medium-sized enterprises. To solve this problem, it is necessary to ensure joint research and development, the adoption of common ethical standards, the exchange of experience and best regulatory practices. All this will help simplify business contacts and give impetus to the economic growth of our countries.

    We expect that the business community will make a significant contribution to the overall work in all areas of financial and economic cooperation and, in general, will contribute to increasing the role of BRICS in global governance mechanisms, promoting a more equitable system of international relations, and strengthening the association in its status as an organizing principle for the countries of the global South.

    I wish the meeting participants fruitful discussions and all the best!

    M. Mishustin

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

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

    http://government.ru/gov/persons/151/telegrams/53018/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Lantronix Unveils SmartLV, the First AI-Enabled IoT Edge Compute Cellular Gateway, Powered by Qualcomm

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    IRVINE, Calif., Oct. 17, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Lantronix Inc. (NASDAQ: LTRX), a global leader of compute and connectivity IoT solutions, has launched SmartLV, powered by the Qualcomm® IQ-615 processor, the first AI-enabled IoT Edge Compute Cellular Gateway. This groundbreaking innovation, designed specifically for low-voltage substations and distribution automation applications in next-generation smart grids, utilities and industrial sectors, will debut at Enlit Europe, Oct. 22–24, 2024, in Milan, Italy.

    SmartLV is engineered to revolutionize real-time visibility, control and automation in the energy sector, providing Distribution System Operators (DSOs) with the ability to manage and steer energy precisely when and where it’s needed. Built with advanced cybersecurity protocols and AI capabilities, the SmartLV ensures robust, reliable and secure operations for mission-critical applications, offering unmatched control over low-voltage substations and Distributed Energy Resources (DERs).

    “The SmartLV Gateway is a leap forward in empowering utility operators with critical, real-time insights and control over their low-voltage substations,” said Mathi Gurusamy, Chief Strategy Officer at Lantronix. “By utilizing Qualcomm Technologies’ AI technology, this solution helps to address today’s most pressing challenges at the edge of the smart grid.”

    AI at the Edge: Transforming Energy Management

    With growing demand for smarter and greener energy grids, the SmartLV Gateway empowers DSOs to anticipate and respond to real-time grid conditions, optimizing energy flow and ensuring stability even during peak loads. This AI-driven platform doesn’t just monitor; it enables intelligent energy steering and dynamic decision-making at the edge.

    “SmartLV exemplifies the fusion of AI and connectivity in tackling critical challenges within smart grids. Qualcomm® and Lantronix are enabling DSOs to have enhanced control and insights into the distribution network, transforming how energy is delivered and consumed and accelerating the grid transformation in Europe,” added Sebastiano Di Filippo, Senior Director of Business Development at Qualcomm Europe Inc.

    SmartLV Gateway key features include:

    • Multi-protocol communication: Seamlessly integrates with existing infrastructure via Ethernet, Serial, I/O and Industrial Protocol conversion suites, offering flexibility across legacy and modern systems.
    • High-speed connectivity: Future-resilient with LTE and 5G-ready high-speed cellular communication for reliable, low-latency operations.
    • Edge computing for real-time decisions: AI-enabled edge computing that powers low-latency analysis, enabling split-second decision-making directly at the substation.
    • Advanced cybersecurity: Fortified with Lantronix’s InfiniShield™ security framework to defend against cyber threats, ensuring uninterrupted operations.
    • Simplified management with Lantronix’s Percepxion™ IoT Edge Platform: Offers seamless management with global cellular plans, VPN security and an easy-to-use cloud platform to monitor and control deployments.
    • Energy Steering Automation: Provides automated, real-time control of DERs based on actual grid conditions to ensure efficient energy flow.  

    Innovation Fueled by a Long-Standing Collaboration

    The SmartLV Gateway is the latest innovation in a 15-year relationship, combining Qualcomm Technologies’ industry-leading AI and connectivity with Lantronix’s expertise in IoT solutions for industrial and smart grid applications.

    Availability

    The SmartLV Gateway is scheduled to launch in CY 2025, with some trials beginning at the end of CY 2024 for selected DSOs. For more information or to schedule a demo, visit Hall 5, MR10.

    About Lantronix   

    Lantronix Inc. is a global leader of compute and connectivity IoT solutions that target high-growth industries including Smart Cities, Automotive and Enterprise. Lantronix’s products and services empower companies to succeed in the growing IoT markets by delivering customizable solutions that address each layer of the IoT Stack. Lantronix’s leading-edge solutions include Intelligent Substations infrastructure, Infotainment systems and Video Surveillance, supplemented with advanced Out-of-Band Management (OOB) for Cloud and Edge Computing. 

    For more information, visit the Lantronix website. 

    “Safe Harbor” Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995: This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of federal securities laws, including, without limitation, statements related to the SmartLV AI-Enabled IoT Edge Compute Cellular Gateway for Qualcomm developers. These forward-looking statements are based on our current expectations and are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results, future business, financial condition, or performance to differ materially from our historical results or those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statement contained in this news release. The potential risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, such factors as the effects of negative or worsening regional and worldwide economic conditions or market instability on our business, including effects on purchasing decisions by our customers; our ability to mitigate any disruption in our and our suppliers’ and vendors’ supply chains due to the COVID-19 pandemic or other outbreaks, wars and recent tensions in Europe, Asia and the Middle East, or other factors; future responses to and effects of public health crises; cybersecurity risks; changes in applicable U.S. and foreign government laws, regulations, and tariffs; our ability to successfully implement our acquisitions strategy or integrate acquired companies; difficulties and costs of protecting patents and other proprietary rights; the level of our indebtedness, our ability to service our indebtedness and the restrictions in our debt agreements; and any additional factors included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on Sept. 9, 2024; as well as in our other public filings with the SEC. Additional risk factors may be identified from time to time in our future filings. The forward-looking statements included in this release speak only as of the date hereof, and we do not undertake any obligation to update these forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances. 

    © 2024 Lantronix, Inc. All rights reserved. Lantronix is a registered trademark. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners. 

    Qualcomm branded products are products of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries
    Qualcomm is a trademark or registered trademark of Qualcomm Incorporated 

    Lantronix Media Contact:         
    Gail Kathryn Miller 
    Corporate Marketing & 
    Communications Manager 
    media@lantronix.com 
    949-212-0960 

    Lantronix Analyst and Investor Contact:         
    investors@lantronix.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government sets up Task Group on New Medical School

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Government announced today (October 17) the establishment of the Task Group on New Medical School responsible for devising the direction and parameters for a new medical school. The Task Group intends to extend invitation of proposals within this year to local universities interested in establishing the new medical school, so as to select a suitable university for setting up the third medical school.
           
         The Chief Executive announced in his Policy Address 2024 that the Government supports the establishment of the third medical school by a local university, with a view to nurturing more talented medical practitioners in support of the local healthcare system to provide quality service, while at the same time driving Hong Kong’s development into an international medical training, research and innovation hub.

         The Secretary for Health, Professor Lo Chung-mau, said, “The establishment of the third medical school is an important project in developing medical education in Hong Kong to drive the pursuit of excellence in medical teaching and research in Hong Kong. Echoing the plan to develop Hong Kong into an international health and medical innovation hub, I hope that the new medical school could pursue an innovative strategic position complementarity with the two existing ones, in areas such as the medical curriculum, sources of students and research projects, with a view to promoting diversified development in local medical education and research as well as attracting more local, Mainland and overseas medical talent to take up teaching and research duties.

         “We attach significant importance to the establishment of the new medical school. To that end, we have in particular invited seasoned local, Mainland and overseas academics for medical teaching and university management, professionals, the President of the Hong Kong Academy of Medicine and the Chairman of the Medical Council of Hong Kong, together with relevant Directors of Bureaux and Heads of Departments of the Government, to form the Task Group on New Medical School. The Task Group will holistically examine various factors when considering proposals submitted by universities, including the strategic position of the medical school, curriculum design, student recruitment arrangement, demand and supply of teaching and training manpower, facilities, and financial resources required. I sincerely look forward to working closely with all members of the Task Group to start a new chapter for medical education in Hong Kong. Our first target is to extend invitation of proposals within this year to local universities interested in setting up the new medical school.”

         The terms of reference of the Task Group on New Medical School are as follows:
     

    To devise directions and parameters for the establishment of a new medical school with the aim of supporting the local healthcare system in providing quality medical services and fostering the development of Hong Kong as an international hub for medical training, research and innovation, and the criteria for assessing proposals for a new medical school from local universities.
    To liaise with interested local universities, invite and assess proposals from them for a new medical school, to handle related matters (including but not limited to funding arrangements, programme accreditation, teaching hospital and research support), and to formulate recommendations on the establishment of a new medical school and related arrangements for decision by the Chief Executive in Council; and
    To liaise with the university selected for the establishment of the new medical school on its implementation plan (including but not limited to funding arrangements, programme accreditation, teaching hospital and research support), and to provide facilitation on the interim and long-term arrangements for a designated school campus and teaching hospital in consultation with the relevant government bureaux/departments.

    　　
         The membership of the Task Group on New Medical School is as follows (see Annex for brief biographies of expert advisors of the Task Group):

    Co-chairmen
    ————
    Secretary for Education
    Secretary for Health

    Alternate Co-Chairmen
    ——————
    Permanent Secretary for Education / Under Secretary for Education
    Permanent Secretary for Health / Under Secretary for Health

    Expert Advisors
    ————
    Chairman of the Medical Council of Hong Kong
    President of the Hong Kong Academy of Medicine (or representative)
    Professor Nivritti Gajanan Patil
    Professor Joseph Sung Jao-yiu
    Professor Zhao Yupei
    Mr Philip Tsai Wing-chung

    Official Members
    ————
    Permanent Secretary for Development (Planning and Lands) (or representative)
    Permanent Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry (or representative)
    Secretary-General of the University Grants Committee (or representative)
    Director of Health (or representative)
    Chief Executive of the Hospital Authority (or representative)
    Deputy Secretary for Education (1)
    Deputy Secretary for Health 3
    Commissioner for Primary Healthcare (or representative)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: WHO – Despite health gains, urgent action needed to meet health-related Sustainable Development Goals in the Western Pacific Region

    SOURCE: World Health Organization (WHO)

    Manila, Philippines, 17 October 2024 – According to a new report released today, countries in the World Health Organization (WHO) Western Pacific Region experienced the smallest decline in life expectancy during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to other WHO regions. Life expectancy in the Western Pacific fell by only 0.07 years during 2020-21, a minimal drop compared to the global average decline of 1.7 years. The Western Pacific now has the highest life expectancy among WHO’s six regions, rising from 72.0 years in 2000 to 77.4 years in 2021.

    However, despite this progress, the Region – comprising 37 countries and areas across Asia and the Pacific – is still grappling with critical challenges and is off-track in achieving the health-related Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The SDGs are the global goals adopted by world leaders to end poverty and inequality, protect the planet and ensure that all people enjoy health, justice and prosperity by 2030. The new WHO report, Health statistics in the Western Pacific Region 2023: Monitoring health for the SDGs, highlights advancements made across the Region while also emphasizing the urgent need for action. The report shows that while the COVID-19 pandemic may have done less damage to life expectancy in the Western Pacific than other regions, it nevertheless exacerbated health inequalities and disrupted progress in other areas.

    Noncommunicable diseases on the rise

    While infectious diseases and injuries were previously major causes of illness and death in the Western Pacific, the Region is undergoing a significant epidemiological shift. Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) like heart disease, stroke, diabetes and cancer now account for nearly nine in 10 deaths. While the probability of premature death from NCDs has declined in the Region by over 25% since 2000, major challenges remain. Moreover, the Region is experiencing rapid population ageing. There are now more than 245 million people aged 65 and older in the Region – a number that is projected to double by 2050. And many older people are living with NCDs.

    A major risk factor for NCDs is alcohol and tobacco use. Consumption of alcohol in the Region has risen by 40% since 2000. Despite a decline from 7.2 litres per capita per year in 2015 to 6.1 litres in 2019, the overall increase highlights an ongoing concern for public health. Similarly, although tobacco use declined from 28.0% of adults smoking in 2000 to 22.5% in 2022, this was still above the global average of 20.9%.

    Mental health issues are also taking their toll on the population, with alarmingly high suicide rates in some countries of the Western Pacific Region, influenced by factors such as stigma, limited access to mental health services and socioeconomic challenges.

    Climate- and environment-related health concerns are yet another major challenge. While air pollution in urban areas of the Region was found to have decreased from 2010 to 2019, air quality levels are still much worse than the WHO-recommended levels. Populations living in urban areas are therefore continuing to breathe unhealthy air.

    Mixed progress towards universal health coverage

    Universal health coverage (UHC) is another important SDG target for which the Western Pacific Region has had mixed progress. The UHC service coverage index measures access to essential health services such as reproductive, maternal, newborn and child care, and prevention and treatment services for both NCDs and infectious diseases. Over the past 20 years, the overall UHC service coverage index in the Western Pacific increased impressively, from 49 to 79 points out of 100 between 2000 and 2021. However, people’s ability to access health-care services varies greatly across the Region. In some countries, the UHC service coverage index score is as low as 30, meaning many people struggle to access basic health care, while in others, it exceeds 80, indicating a much higher level of service availability and coverage. Despite these advancements, progress has slowed and stagnated since the adoption of the SDGs in 2015, and particularly since 2019.

    Despite the growing burden of noncommunicable diseases, access to essential health services for NCDs did not improve significantly, increasing only slightly from 52 points in 2000 to 58 points in 2010. Even more troubling, there has been no further progress since 2010, and access to services remains low, particularly in Pacific island countries and areas.

    In contrast, access to services for infectious diseases improved significantly, rising from just 18 points in 2000 to 82 points in 2021. Immunization coverage for the WHO-recommended three doses against diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis, or DTP3, showed mixed results from 2000 to 2023: coverage increased in 15 countries, while four countries experienced no change and eight saw a decrease.

    In the Western Pacific Region, average health spending has increased substantially, tripling from around US$ 383 per person in 2000 to US$ 1336 in 2021. On average, health spending accounted for 6.6% of gross domestic product (GDP) at country level in 2000, and rose to 8.2% by 2021. However, despite efforts to increase public spending for health, the proportion of people in the Western Pacific experiencing catastrophic health expenditure − defined as spending more than 10% of their income on health-care − has nevertheless doubled, rising from 9.9% in 2000 to 19.8% in 2019.

    Critical action needed to achieve SDGs

    “While we celebrate the significant health gains that the Western Pacific Region has achieved, we must also acknowledge urgent challenges in sustaining progress,” said Dr Saia Ma’u Piukala, WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific. “We are living longer than ever, and more than any other region of the world, but this isn’t enough. We’re off-track to meet many of the SDG targets, and the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated health disparities. Now is the time for concerted action to address these issues. We look forward to working with health leaders from across the Region next week to finalize our new vision to weave health for families, communities and societies.”

    New vision for health in the Region

    Ministers of health and other senior officials are preparing for discussions at the seventy-fifth session of the WHO Regional Committee for the Western Pacific in Manila on 21−25 October 2024. The meeting will focus on the most pressing health needs in the Region and chart a course to address them.

    Weaving health for families, communities and societies in the Western Pacific Region (2025-2029): Working together to improve health, well-being and save lives is the proposed new vision for the Region. The vision centres on the analogy of weaving a mat – a traditional activity across Asia and the Pacific – symbolizing the collaborative efforts required by WHO, governments and partners to improve population health and well-being. The vision centres on five vertical strands of action led by governments interwoven with three horizontal strands of action by WHO.

    The five vertical strands of action led by governments, working with WHO and other stakeholders include:

    Transformative primary health care for UHC
    Climate-resilient health systems
    Resilient communities, societies and systems for health security
    Healthier people throughout the life course
    Technology and innovation for future health equity.

    The three horizontal strands of action by WHO are:

    Country offices equipped with skills for scaling up and innovation
    Nimble support teams in the Regional Office
    Effective communication for public health.

    These strands reflect the reality that the Western Pacific Region faces complex health challenges that cannot be addressed by the health sector alone. Achieving the goals of SDG 3 − Good health and well-being – will require a concerted effort from multiple sectors. Social determinants of health, including education, housing, employment, social protection, gender equality and the environment, significantly impact health outcomes. Therefore, collaboration between the health, education, urban planning, agriculture and environmental sectors, to name but a few, is crucial. Collaboration can create synergies and co-benefits for all these sectors while accelerating progress towards achieving SDG 3.

    “The commitment of governments, WHO and partners to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030 is a commitment to health and well-being for all,” added Dr Piukala. “We must work together to ensure that no one is left behind as we weave a healthier future.”

    In addition to the vision, the Regional Committee will also consider new regional action frameworks on digital health and on health financing to achieve UHC and sustainable development. There will be panel discussions on climate-resilient health-care facilities, transformative primary health care and oral health, as well as a special event on the Investment Round to resource WHO’s work for 2025–2028.

    Notes:

    The seventy-fifth session of the Western Pacific Regional Committee will run from Monday, 21 October through Friday, 25 October, at the WHO Regional Office for the Western Pacific in Manila, Philippines. The Agenda and timetable are available online. A livestream of proceedings, all other official documents, as well as fact sheets and videos on the issues to be addressed can be accessed here. For real-time updates, follow @WHOWPRO on Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube and the hashtag #RCM75.

    Working with 194 Member States across six regions, WHO is the United Nations specialized agency responsible for public health. Each WHO region has its regional committee – a governing body composed of ministers of health and senior officials from Member States. Each regional committee meets annually to agree on health actions and to chart priorities for WHO’s work.

    The WHO Western Pacific Region is home to more than 1.9 billion people across 37 countries and areas: American Samoa (United States of America), Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, China, Cook Islands, Fiji, French Polynesia (France), Guam (United States of America), Hong Kong SAR (China), Japan, Kiribati, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Macao SAR (China), Malaysia, the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, Mongolia, Nauru, New Caledonia (France), New Zealand, Niue, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (United States of America), Palau, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, Pitcairn Islands (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland), the Republic of Korea, Samoa, Singapore, Solomon Islands, Tokelau, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu and Viet Nam, Wallis and Futuna (France).

    Related links:

    Health statistics in the Western Pacific Region 2023: Monitoring health for the SDGs
    Draft vision Weaving health for families, communities and societies in the Western Pacific Region (2025−2029): Working together to improve health and well-being and save lives
    WHO data on progress towards universal health coverage (UHC)
    Other WHO data which can be searched by country.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Alexandra Permyakova, People’s Artist of Russia

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    Mikhail Mishustin congratulated the artistic director of the State Academic Russian Folk Choir named after M.E. Pyatnitsky on his anniversary.

    The telegram states, in particular:

    “Thanks to your talent and constant creative search, you were able, while preserving all the best from your predecessors, to combine singing, music and dance traditions from different parts of Russia with modern trends in the performing arts. The concert programs you created reveal the beauty and versatility of Russian folklore and are very popular with viewers not only in our country, but also far beyond its borders.

    I wish you good health and all the best.”

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

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

    http://government.ru/gov/persons/151/telegrams/53019/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko opened a fencing center in Ufa as part of the Russia – Sports Power forum

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko and Sports Minister Mikhail Degtyarev took part in the grand opening of the Fencing Palace named after Honored Trainer of the RSFSR and USSR Ramil Ayupov and launched the international competition “Saber of Salavat” among juniors.

    Dmitry Chernyshenko opened a fencing center in Ufa as part of the Russia – Sports Power forum

    October 17, 2024

    International competition “Saber of Salavat” among juniors

    October 17, 2024

    International competition “Saber of Salavat” among juniors

    October 17, 2024

    International competition “Saber of Salavat” among juniors

    October 17, 2024

    Previous news Next news

    Dmitry Chernyshenko opened a fencing center in Ufa as part of the Russia – Sports Power forum

    The event took place as part of the XII International Sports Forum “Russia – Sports Power”, which is taking place in Ufa from October 17 to 19. The ceremony was also attended by the President of the Russian Fencing Federation Ilgar Mamedov and the Acting Prime Minister of the Government of Bashkortostan Andrey Nazarov.

    “I am glad to welcome you to the opening of the arena, where competitions in this romantic, but incredibly useful and very important for our country sport will be held. A huge number of boys and girls, inspired by the victories of our great athletes, will definitely come here to train, and new stars will appear on the sports horizon of our country. It is symbolic that the opening is taking place in the year of the 450th anniversary of Ufa and just at the time when the forum “Russia – a Sports Power” is taking place in the capital of Bashkortostan,” the Deputy Prime Minister addressed the participants.

    Dmitry Chernyshenko recalled that our country has given the world a huge number of talents.

    “All this is happening thanks to the policy and attitude towards sports of President Vladimir Putin, who is an athlete himself and sets a very high bar for us. Here I would also like to note and thank the leadership of the republic – Radiy Faritovich Khabirov, who pays great attention to the development of this sphere in the region. There are more than 13 thousand sports facilities in the region, and their number continues to increase. The level of sports equipment in the republic is one of the highest in the country – 74.5%,” he noted.

    The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that the rate of population involvement in regular sports activities exceeds the national average. More than 2 million residents of Bashkortostan regularly engage in sports due to the fact that the republic has the infrastructure.

    “I want everyone to think once again about a healthy lifestyle on this festive day and help the leadership of the republic and the entire country fulfill the order given by the President: so that 70% of our residents regularly engage in sports,” urged Dmitry Chernyshenko.

    The new fencing palace includes 28 fencing lanes, a multi-purpose hall with stands for 373 spectators, specialized and training halls, warm-up and recovery areas, as well as coaching and refereeing rooms. The palace is equipped with the latest refereeing systems and electronics for recording results, which will allow competitions of the highest level to be held.

    At the opening ceremony of the center, Andrei Nazarov emphasized that the region had been preparing for several years for an important sporting event for the entire country – the international forum “Russia – a Sports Power”.

    “Our athletes show excellent results, achieving high achievements in the international arenas. The entire international and Russian arena knows the Bashkir Olympic fencers. I am sure that the modern Fencing Center will become a real springboard for new sporting achievements that will glorify Russia and Bashkortostan in the world arena,” the acting Prime Minister of the Government of Bashkortostan greeted the guests and athletes at the ceremonial event.

    The first international fencing competition “Sabre of Salavat” has started in the new palace. About 120 athletes from Russia, Belarus and Uzbekistan will take part in individual competitions among juniors under 21, individual competitions among juniors under 24 and team competitions under 24.

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

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

    http://government.ru/nevs/53022/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: IKEA Foundation supports MSF in Sudan crisis scale-up

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières –

    The war in Sudan, now 550 days in, has triggered one of the most devastating humanitarian crises in decades. According to the UN, one in five people has been displaced, and half of the country’s people face acute food insecurity. Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), with over 1,000 staff running 15 hospitals, 9 health centres, and mobile clinics in Sudan, is scaling up the response thanks to €35 million from the IKEA Foundation. Despite these efforts, the needs of people remain overwhelming and a collective increase in aid is urgently required.

    “This life-changing gift will allow us to respond to the medical needs, providing access to free health care services, and giving displaced people the opportunity to be treated and live a healthy life,” says Alaa Ahmed, an MSF nurse working in Sudan.

    “The Sudan war is a massive, underreported emergency”, says Stephen Cornish, Director General of MSF’s Operational Centre in Geneva. “We are grateful to the IKEA Foundation and other donors who have stepped up for the people of Sudan. We are determined to deliver more lifesaving treatment for those in need.”

    In response to this escalating crisis, the IKEA Foundation—a long-standing partner of MSF, as part of the Foundation’s focus on underreported emergencies—has committed €35 million to help MSF scale up efforts.

    “This is now one of the largest humanitarian crises in the world,” says Jessica Anderen, CEO of the IKEA Foundation. “We are humbled by the work MSF is doing to support the Sudanese people and encourage other funders to join us in supporting their efforts.”

    “This devastating situation is not getting the attention or funding it deserves. More needs to be done to provide critical support for those impacted,” says Hayley Kornblum, Programme Manager at the IKEA Foundation. “We are so encouraged to see other private sector organisations, like Mastercard Foundation, taking strong action through donations to UNHCR, but much more is required from both government and the private sector.”

    The war in Sudan has displaced over 10 million people within the country and driven nearly three million more to seek refuge in neighbouring countries, such as Chad and South Sudan. Over half of Sudan’s population—around 25.6 million people—are now facing critical levels of food insecurity, according to the UN.

    MSF is scaling up relief and lifesaving activities, focusing on treating severely malnourished children, and addressing the needs of displaced people and refugees. In addition, MSF is providing water and sanitation services, and ensuring the delivery of essential aid in refugee camps, like Adré transit camp in Chad, where MSF teams provide over one million litres of water per day.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Polytechnic students successfully competed in the financial security Olympiad

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    In October, the final of the international financial security Olympiad was held for the fourth time on the federal territory of Sirius. 550 participants from 36 countries, including students of the Polytechnic University, competed for the title of the best. Every year, the competition brings together more and more participants who are ready to cope with new challenges in the field of financial security. This year, 22,000 people from all over the world took part in the selection stage alone.

    Polytechnic University was represented in the final by three students from the Higher School of Engineering and Economics of IPMEIT and a student from the Higher School of Cybersecurity of IKNK. The students were able not only to test their knowledge, but also to communicate with the professional community and employers, participate in master classes and panel discussions. The participants asked their questions to experts, competed in the ability to conduct financial investigations using the Grafus program, and went on excursions and sports competitions.

    The winners and prize winners of the Olympiad were 38 schoolchildren and 138 students. Among them were students of the Polytechnic University’s Economic Security program: Olga Maklakova, Anna Malets and Egor Reshetin.

    It should be added that the Polytechnic University is an active member of the international network institute in the field of combating money laundering and terrorist financing. The University supports not only the Olympiad, but also the international movement for financial security.

    In addition to students and schoolchildren, IPMEiT teachers participated in the final stage of the Olympiad: Director of the Higher School of Engineering and Economics Dmitry Rodionov, Head of the Economic Security Program Olga Nadezhina, Associate Professor Tatyana Mokeeva. The SPbPU Humanitarian Institute was represented by Associate Professor of the Higher School of International Relations Anna Mokhorova, Associate Professor Alexandra Kobicheva and Assistant of the Higher School of Law and Forensic Science Bella Nyrova. The delegation of schoolchildren from the Northwestern Federal District was accompanied by the manager of the Polytechnic University Applicant Center Evgenia Lyzlova. Evgenia became an expert at the meeting of participants “Class Hour: How to Enter the University of Your Dreams” and spoke about the opportunities of the Polytechnic University.

    Dmitry Rodionov, Olga Nadezhina and Tatyana Mokeeva held an interactive workshop “Digital tools for analyzing public procurement to ensure financial security.” They shared their experience of how digital tools can be used to identify potentially suspicious public procurement, increase the effectiveness of control over them in order to ensure the country’s financial security, and presented a unique methodology for using digital tools to identify unfair practices in public procurement. At a meeting of the council of the international network institute in the field of combating money laundering and terrorist financing, the main issue of which was the development of the international movement for financial security, Olga Nadezhina was awarded an honorary diploma for her personal contribution to the development of the international network institute in the field of AML/CFT.

    Also, within the framework of the Olympiad, an international dictation on financial security was held for the first time. Its co-organizer, along with Rosfinmonitoring, MSI, the Center for Inter-Olympiad Training (FIAN), ARFG, was also Polytechnic. Everyone could test their level of knowledge. Over 17,000 people wrote the dictation in two weeks. The Northwestern Federal District became the most active in terms of the number of participants.

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

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

    https://vvv.spbstu.ru/media/nevs/achivments/polytech students-successfully-performed-at-the-olympiad-on-financial-security/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Grave of lost World War Two soldier located in Italy

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The grave of a Royal Tank Regiment soldier who lost his life in Italy during World War Two has been identified 81 years after his death.

    Padre David Anderson leads the service for Tpr Stobart (Crown Copyright)

    The rededication service for Trooper (Tpr) Frederick Stobart was organised by the MOD’s Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (JCCC), also known as the ‘War Detectives’. 

    The service was held at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission’s (CWGC) Bolsena War Cemetery in Italy this afternoon (16 October). 

    Frederick Stobart was born in Sunderland in 1916. He lived with his maternal grandparents for some of his childhood, but no records exist to tell us about his young life or schooling.  

    He joined the Army in 1935, listing his previous occupation as a steel grinder. He served at home, and in India during the years immediately before war broke out in 1939, and then joined the British Expeditionary Force in May 1940. By August 1940 he was in the Middle East, and he remained there until June 1943, when he was sent to take part in the invasion of Italy. He appears to have been captured around Tobruk in North Africa in late June 1943 and to have become a prisoner of the Italians at Camp 54 at Fara in Sabina, in the Lazio region of Italy.   

    In September 1943 when Italy capitulated, many prisoners found themselves without guards and took the opportunity to escape, Stobart was one of these. He travelled north, with fellow escapee, Pte Robert Quinn of the Durham Light Infantry, into the hills where they relied on local people for help. Unfortunately, their freedom was short-lived, and they were recaptured by the Germans within a few days.  According to contemporary reports, both men were shot whilst trying to escape from a transport taking them to a new camp. Quinn was hospitalised but Stobart died.  

    Stobart was buried in a civilian cemetery at Monte Libretto by two German soldiers, a local policeman and four other prisoners. The notes recorded on the grave register show that there were no documents or means of identifying the body, and that the other prisoners burying him did not seem to know him. After the war Stobart’s remains were recovered and moved to the war cemetery at Bolsena where he was buried as an unknown casualty of the 1939 – 45 war, with a date of death in September 1943. 

    Recently an independent researcher submitted evidence to the CWGC hoping to have located the final resting place of Tpr Stobart. The research included excerpts from a Red Cross interview with Stobart’s fellow escapee Pte Quinn which was conducted whilst he was a POW in hospital. Quinn had described the escape and what had happened to his Stobart, without naming him. It was his testimony along with other supporting documents which were crucial in proving this case. The researcher’s evidence was reviewed and extra work conducted by the National Army Museum and  JCCC which concluded that now, 80 years after his death, it is possible to clearly identify where Tpr Stobart is buried. 

    The military party, representatives of the CWGC, and the researcher who submitted the original identification case for Tpr Stobart, stand behind his headstone (Crown Copyright)

    JCCC Caseworker, Alexia Clark, said: 

    It has been a privilege for me to have been involved in restoring Tpr Stobart’s name to him,  and to have organised the service of rededication for him today. I am grateful to the researcher who submitted the original evidence and thus started this process off, and to Tpr Stobart’s military family for attending today to honour his sacrifice. 

    Director for Central and Southern Europe at the CWGC, Geert Bekaert, said:  

    We are honoured to now be able to commemorate, by name, Trooper Stobart. It is a privilege to care for his grave and all those that lie here at Bolsena War Cemetery, in perpetuity.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Grave of missing World War Two soldier identified in Italy

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The grave of a Scottish soldier who lost his life in Italy during World War Two has been identified and rededicated 80 years after his death.

    A bugler and piper from the Royal Regiment of Scotland at Bolsena War Cemetery (Crown Copyright)

    Today’s service for Private (Pte) George Alister Walker Ewan was organised by the MOD’s Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (JCCC), also known as the ‘War Detectives’. 

    The service was held at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission’s (CWGC) Bolsena War Cemetery in Italy. 

    George Alister Walker Ewan was born in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada in 1915 to Scottish parents Thomas Ewan, a farmer, and his wife Christina Walker Alister. George was their second, and youngest child – having a sister called Catherine, who was five years older than him.  

    The family returned to Scotland in the summer of 1916, living initially in Dollar with Thomas’ mother. Sadly, Christina died in 1919 and following this the family were separated for a time with George and Catherine living away from their father.

    George Ewan joined the army in June 1940 and spent two years on home defence duties with a Territorial battalion of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders. In late 1941 he was transferred to the 8th Battalion and embarked with them for North Africa in October 1942. He was posted as missing in November 1942 during the second battle of El Alamein but was able to rejoin his battalion a few weeks later.   

    Padre David Anderson leads the service for Pte George Ewan at Bolsena War Cemetery (Crown Copyright)

    Pte Ewan was wounded in an action in the Vaiano area in late June 1944, he was initially posted as missing, but this was later revised to record that he was presumed to have died of his wounds on or soon after 21 June 1944.  He was buried at the civilian cemetery at Castiglione del Largo, possibly by the German army or by local civilians though the records are not clear. Either way, his name was not recorded, and he was listed in the cemetery records as an unknown British soldier.  

    Following the war, his remains were recovered from Castiglione del Largo and moved to the war cemetery at Bolsena, his cap badge showed that he had been a member of the Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders, but no other identifying artefacts were found. 

    Recently an independent researcher submitted evidence to the CWGC hoping to have located the final resting place of Pte Ewan. This research was reviewed, and extra work was conducted by the National Army Museum and the JCCC which concluded that now, 80 years after his death, it was possible to clearly identify where Pte Ewan was buried and notify his family that he had been found. Pte Ewan’s cousins were in attendance at the service. 

    Pte Ewan’s cousins stand at his graveside with members of the military party (Crown Copyright)

    JCCC Caseworker, Alexia Clark, said: 

    I am grateful to the researcher who submitted this case. Their work has led us to recognise the final resting place of Pte Ewan, to restore his name to him and to allow his family to honour his sacrifice. It has been a privilege for me to have contributed to this case and to have organised the service for the rededication of Pte Ewan’s grave today. 

     Director for Central and Southern Europe at the CWGC, Geert Bekaert, said:  

    We are grateful to everyone involved in identifying the grave of this brave soldier, who died 80 years ago today. It is our duty – and privilege – to care for the grave of Private Ewan, in perpetuity.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Cross-examining cybercrime: GITEX GLOBAL 2024 sheds light on the innovation-igniting conundrum challenging industries worldwide

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, October 17, 2024/APO Group/ —

    • “Cybersecurity Day” marks GITEX GLOBAL’s halfway stage as enlightening agenda reveals the challenges, threats and opportunities for international tech community
    • “AI is changing the game” – H.E. Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cybersecurity for the UAE Government​

    After an action-packed two days where GITEX GLOBAL 2024 (www.GITEX.com) presented exhilarating events and exhibitions across technology’s new frontiers, Wednesday witnessed another incredible programme as audiences examined the existing and future cybersecurity landscapes with the world’s foremost experts. 

    Taking place from 14-18 October at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), GITEX GLOBAL is the world’s largest and best-rated tech event. It presents a record-breaking 44th edition in 2024 – welcoming over 6,500 exhibitors, 1,800 startups, 1,200 investors alongside governments from more than 180 countries.

    As GITEX GLOBAL’s biggest-ever international edition reached the halfway stage, “Cybersecurity Day” headlined the Wednesday schedule. An enlightening series of keynote speeches, fireside chats, and specialist panels cast a unique spotlight on the urgent challenges, emerging threats, and innovative opportunities facing individuals, enterprises, industries, and nations worldwide.

    Cross-examining the cybercrime conundrum

    With global cybercrime damaged projected to reach $10.5 trillion annually by 2025, the international tech community is determined to ignite a paradigm shift through reinvigorated determination. This universal attitude was on full display at GITEX GLOBAL as top CISOs, CIOs, and GRC leaders converged with a unified mission: establish the foremost line of defence globally.

    In 2024, finance industry AI-driven fraud has surged by 40%, posing unprecedented challenges for incumbents. One of Wednesday’s must-attend conference sessions – ‘AI-Driven Digital Fraud: Safeguarding the Finance Industry’s Future’ – examined how emerging technologies are being harnessed to overcome the evolving threat.  

    H.E. Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cybersecurity for the UAE Government, revealed that the country has dispelled millions of threats this year alone while endorsing AI as a “gamechanger” in leading the industry’s cyber resurgence. He said to GITEX Tech Waves Podcast (https://apo-opa.co/3Y8w33V): “Cyber awareness is crucial – and AI is changing the game. The UAE is a financial hub that faced 71 million attacks in Q1 2024. We are resilient and thwarted these with early threat detection through AI. It’s a hugely beneficial technology alongside our great partnerships with the world.”

    Todd Conklin also weighed in on the positive impact of AI. While acknowledging the potential repercussions of AI’s power when utilised by malicious actors, the Chief AI Officer & Deputy Assistant Secretary, Cybersecurity & Critical Infrastructure Protection at the US Department of the Treasury, added: “The US Treasury runs the largest payments ecosystem in the entire world. We’ve leveraged AI models to reduce fraud by almost $600 million in the last six months. It’s becoming increasingly critical in the counter-fraud space.”

    Unveiling a new world of limitless possibilities and potential

    In a week where 88% of exhibiting startups are GITEX GLOBAL debutants and no fewer than 230 new partnerships have been finalised between local, regional, and international entities and enterprises, the event is again fulfilling its pledge as a global cooperation and collaboration catalyst. Heading into Wednesday, over 13,000 pre-arranged concierge meetings had already taken place across GITEX GLOBAL and Expand North Star – the world’s largest startup and investment event – with many more a certainty as companies exhibit transformative solutions that could change the world.

    Huawei shed light on its critical infrastructure and cloud tech solutions with Dr. Aloysius Cheang, Chief Security Officer for the Middle East & Central Asia at Huawei, revealing the staggering rate of cyber attacks worldwide. While calling on enterprises to ensure stringent security postures, he said: “Huawei is attacked 12 billion times a day on average. This is why cybersecurity is positioned as a very strategic asset within our company. Organisations must build a cybersecurity culture through a security-first, privacy-first approach – and their solutions must serve their purpose of protecting digital assets.”

    Cybersecurity and anti-virus provider Kaspersky also showcased its pioneering Cyber Immunity approach and advanced threat intelligence solutions on Wednesday as US cyber firm Fortinet highlighted products and services part of its cybersecurity platform portfolio. solutions by stc also introduced visitors to the emerging technologies utilised to deliver new value to customers.

    Elsewhere on day three at GITEX Global 2024, a host of activations, showcases, and conferences took place at GITEX Cyber Valley (https://apo-opa.co/4eDbPq1), this year’s most anticipated cybersecurity exhibition and programme hosted by the UAE Cyber Security Council. An unmissable session saw audiences hear from Brett Johnson – once America’s Most Wanted, now a leading global cybercrime and identity theft expert. During ‘Scamming the scammer: Inside the Mind of a Cybercriminal’, he revealed the extent of the virtual underworld while sharing his life story.

    Live Hacks also headlined the GITEX Cyber Valley’s Dark Stage as ethical hackers showcased live demonstrations on AI-powered hacks. Visitors also got exclusive insights from Santiago Lopez, the world’s first million-dollar hacker, on how to turn hacking skills into a lucrative career during another special session – ‘Face to Face with 1# Million Dollar Hacker: Who wants to be a hacking millionaire?’.

    What next at GITEX GLOBAL 2024?

    GITEX GLOBAL 2024 continues Thursday as “Data Centres Universe” welcomes an ensemble cast of thought leaders and experts to discuss the future of data management and infrastructure. Sessions throughout the day’s schedule will explore the latest data technology and sustainable energy solutions alongside data centres’ pivotal role in supporting the exponential growth of digital services.

    Future Mobility (https://apo-opa.co/3Yctvlv) will explore the shifting paradigms of the global auto tech industry with the World Future Economy Digital Leaders Summit (https://apo-opa.co/3YcBoai) and Global DevSlam (https://GlobalDevSlam.com) among the many day four highlights.

    More information on GITEX GLOBAL, please visit http://www.GITEX.com

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Egypt-Ethiopia hostilities are playing out in the Horn – the risk of new proxy wars is high

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Endalcachew Bayeh, Lecturer and Researcher, Bahir Dar University

    Egypt recently deepened its involvement in the war-weary Horn of Africa by arming Somalia and deploying its troops in the embattled country. To Ethiopia’s growing alarm, Egypt is also set to join the multinational force supporting the Somali army against the jihadist threat by al-Shabaab. Egypt’s potentially destabilising presence in the region is seen a direct consequence of Ethiopia’s port agreement with breakaway Somaliland, which Somalia took as a direct affront. Endalcachew Bayeh, a political scholar with a focus on the Horn of Africa, sets out the risks and the path to de-escalation.

    What do we know about Egypt’s entry into Somalia and the theatre of conflict in the Horn?

    Egypt’s arrival in the Horn of Africa can be traced back to Ethiopia’s quest for a dedicated port under its control. Ethiopia is the world’s largest landlocked country by population and has relied exclusively on the port of Djibouti since the outbreak of the Ethiopia-Eritrea war (1998-2000).

    Ethiopia has been exploring alternative access points. This led to the announcement on 1 January 2024 that it had struck a port deal with Somaliland. Ethiopia agreed to recognise the breakaway republic in exchange for a naval base on Somaliland’s coast.

    The announcement sparked a diplomatic rift with Somalia, which viewed the deal as a violation of its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Somalia still considers self-declared Somaliland part of its territory.

    Amid the turmoil, Somalia courted Egypt as a regional patron to counter Ethiopia. This aligned well with Egypt’s increasing interest in finding a military partner along Ethiopia’s border.

    Egypt is a longstanding rival of Ethiopia. Recently, it threatened to go to war over Ethiopia’s massive Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, which it sees as a threat to its survival.

    Egypt deployed military forces in Somalia following its defence deal with Mogadishu in August 2024. It also plans to deploy 5,000 soldiers as part of the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia. The mission is set to replace the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia, in which Ethiopia is a main player.

    Ethiopia’s agreement to recognise Somaliland and the friction with Somalia have brought its old enemy, Egypt, to its doorstep.

    How have Egypt-Ethiopia hostilities added to regional tensions?

    Soon after Egypt’s deployment in Somalia, Ethiopia formalised its recognition of Somaliland. It also sent an ambassador to the capital, Hargeisa. This made it the first nation to officially acknowledge Somaliland’s independence. The two are also rushing to turn their memorandum of understanding into a binding bilateral treaty.

    Somaliland ordered the closure of the Egyptian Cultural Library in Hargeisa.

    Eritrea, for a time a key ally of Ethiopia’s Abiy Ahmed in the fight against the Tigray People’s Liberation Front, is now at odds with Addis Ababa. And, in response to the recent tensions in the region, Eritrea is strengthening its ties with Egypt and Somalia. A recent meeting of the three has created a united front against Ethiopia.

    In Somalia, Ethiopia plays a stabilising role. Somalia now demands that Ethiopia should end its involvement. That could open the way for militant groups and keep Somalia unstable. This is even more likely to happen if Egypt focuses on its competition with Ethiopia rather than Somalia’s stability.

    In addition, Somalis have longstanding territorial claims over parts of Ethiopia, Kenya and Djibouti. Instability can create fertile ground for groups like Al-Shabaab, which aims to include these territories in an Islamic state.

    Finally, tensions have risen between Djibouti and Somaliland over the Ethiopia-Somaliland port deal. This is because the agreement will almost certainly be bad for Djibouti’s economy. Djibouti relies heavily on port revenues that are almost entirely generated from Ethiopia.

    What are the risks for the region?

    Ethiopia’s recognition of Somaliland and Egypt’s presence in Somalia come at a time of multiple regional crises. These include the strained Ethiopia-Eritrea relations, the Ethiopia-Sudan dispute over Al-Fashaga border region, and instability in Ethiopia.

    This volatile environment increases the likelihood of proxy wars.

    Key areas to watch are:

    Sudan and Egypt: These two countries align on the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam issue. Egypt has enhanced its security cooperation with Sudan through military support and joint exercises. Although Sudan is in turmoil, the Al-Fashaga dispute with Ethiopia remains a potential flashpoint. Egypt may take advantage of this dispute and its support for the Sudanese Armed Forces against the Rapid Support Forces to further its interests.

    Instability in Ethiopia: In several regions, the government is engaged in active conflict with non-state forces. This instability creates fertile ground for Egypt to potentially support proxies against the Ethiopian government. Egypt and Somalia have already expressed the possibility of using proxy forces.

    Egypt’s main motivation for intervening in the region is to control the Nile’s source or hinder Ethiopia’s use of the water. As a result, Ethiopia perceives Egypt’s presence at its doorstep as a direct security threat. This increases tensions between Egypt, Somalia and Ethiopia.

    Any further destabilisation of Ethiopia would disrupt the entire region, as it shares porous borders with almost all countries in the Horn.

    What are the potential avenues for de-escalation?

    A promising pathway for reducing tensions in Somalia and the broader region is for the two regional powers to reconsider their strategies and exercise restraint.

    Ethiopia can access the sea through Somaliland without formal recognition. This could ease tensions and would not encourage separatist movements.

    For Egypt, a more constructive approach would be to limit its direct involvement in the Horn of Africa. Instead, it should address its concerns about the Ethiopian mega-dam through the United Nations, the African Union and other platforms. Historically, its unilateral actions have often been sources of tensions rather than solutions in the region.

    The African Union and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development must ensure that the regional states themselves address regional issues. States must make wise decisions now to calm tensions, as no state will be spared from the spillover effects.

    – Egypt-Ethiopia hostilities are playing out in the Horn – the risk of new proxy wars is high
    – https://theconversation.com/egypt-ethiopia-hostilities-are-playing-out-in-the-horn-the-risk-of-new-proxy-wars-is-high-241402

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Pål Jonson attends NATO defence ministers meeting in Brussels

    Source: Government of Sweden

    Pål Jonson attends NATO defence ministers meeting in Brussels – Government.se

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    Press release from Ministry of Defence

    Published

    On 17–18 October, Sweden’s Minister for Defence Pål Jonson will meet with his colleagues from other NATO member countries in Brussels. Part of the meeting will also be attended for the first time by the defence ministers of Australia, Japan, South Korea and New Zealand – NATO’s partners known as the Indo-Pacific Four (IP4).

    The agenda includes discussions on continuing and deepening NATO’s cooperation with the IP4.

    At the meeting in Brussels, the NATO defence ministers will also discuss deeper cooperation between NATO and the EU, and reinforcements of NATO’s deterrence and defence capabilities.

    They will also discuss continued support to Ukraine and the support being provided to Russia by Iran, China and North Korea.

    This is the first NATO ministerial meeting led by new Secretary General Mark Rutte. 

    Press contact

    More about the Meeting of NATO Defence Ministers on 17–18 October

    More information about the Meeting of Defence Ministers on 17–18 October is available on the NATO website. Images and video material from the meeting will also be published on the website as they become available.

    About the North Atlantic Council (NAC)

    The North Atlantic Council (NAC) is the principal political decision-making body within NATO. For the NAC’s day-to-day work, member countries are represented by their NATO Ambassadors.

    The NAC meets a number of times a year at the levels of defence ministers, foreign ministers and heads of state and government. Normally, one NATO summit, two meetings of NATO Ministers of Foreign Affairs and three meetings of NATO Defence Ministers are held each year. The NATO Secretary General chairs the NAC.

    About Sweden in NATO

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Central China’s Henan to host Intl Shaolin Wushu Festival

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    The 13th Zhengzhou International Shaolin Wushu Festival will take place Oct. 17-22 in Zhengzhou, the capital of central China’s Henan province.

    Organized by the Henan provincial government and co-hosted by the province’s sports administration and Zhengzhou city government, the event aims to promote Shaolin Wushu culture and foster international exchanges.

    Opening ceremony of the previous Zhengzhou International Shaolin Wushu Festival. [File photo by Li Bo/ Xinhua News]

    The festival will feature traditional Shaolin Wushu competitions and the Wushu Duanwei Evaluation for Overseas Personnel, alongside new events, including a collective kung fu performance, an international fight competition, a U.S.-China youth training camp, a kung fu adventure, and a Cambodian-Chinese boxing showcase.

    Zhao Xuedong, deputy secretary-general of the Henan provincial government, said 2,560 athletes from 56 countries and regions have signed up for the festival. The event will host Wushu exchanges between China and the U.S., as well as China and Cambodia. Officials from the International Wushu Federation, the Intangible Cultural Heritage Fund, resident ambassadors and international guests will attend related activities.

    The festival will build a bridge for cultural integration and mutual learning between China and foreign countries, as well as strengthen exchanges and cooperation among Belt and Road countries, according to Zhao.

    The festival adheres to the principle of “meeting friends through Shaolin Wushu and progressing together.” Competitions will include designated routines, nationally recognized martial arts routines and various styles and forms.

    Organizers aim to nurture Shaolin Wushu and expand its cultural impact. They will arrange visits to cultural tourism projects during the festival to promote the integration of culture, tourism and sports in Henan.

    Zhao Hengkang, deputy secretary-general of the Henan provincial government, said the six-day festival includes five categories, six major events and 315 sub-events, with participants ranging from 4 to 82 years old.

    The opening ceremony will feature 30,000 young martial artists showcasing Shaolin Wushu along a 13-kilometer route from the Shaolin Temple on Mount Song to the opening venue. Audiences worldwide can enjoy this cultural feast through television and online broadcasts.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Expo highlights intangible cultural heritage

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    The eighth China Intangible Cultural Heritage Expo packed in a big audience on its opening day in Jinan, East China’s Shandong province, on Thursday.

    The expo, running until Monday, is hosted by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and undertaken by the Shandong Culture and Tourism Department and the Jinan government.

    The expo is themed on protection, inheritance and innovation, highlighting the integration of intangible culture with modern life.

    Major sectors showcase craftsmanship, innovation, rural development and creative arts in related fields.

    A total of 211 intangible cultural heritage items are on display and more than 100 inheritors are present to interact with attendees.

    The expo aims to showcase the achievements of China’s intangible cultural heritage protection over the past 20 years since it joined the UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage.

    Additionally, performances and workshops are arranged for the public to appreciate the charm of cultural heritage. Related brand launches and business matchmaking events are also taking place to boost exchange and cooperation.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Opening address by President Viola Amherd at the Ukraine Mine Action Conference UMAC2024

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport

    Bern, 17.10.2024 – Opening address by President Viola Amherd, head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS), at the Ukraine Mine Action Conference UMAC2024, Lausanne, Thursday, 17 October 2024.

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    Prime Minister,
    Excellencies,
    Ladies and Gentlemen,

    It is an honour to welcome you, Mr Prime Minister, to Lausanne today, and to open this conference with you.

    The next two days will be dedicated to one of the most pressing humanitarian issues of our time: humanitarian demining.

    Mines, cluster munitions and explosive remnants of war have a devastating impact: they claim thousands of lives every year, make land impassable, resources inaccessible and hamper economic development.

    Every improvised explosive device that we defuse is a step towards security, progress and a better life – this is the conviction that lies at the heart of our efforts.

    Today, humanitarian mine action is faced with major challenges.

    The Ottawa Convention bans anti-personnel mines, because they kill and maim indiscriminately. While the initial success of the Convention inspired optimism, in recent years this has given way to a certain disillusionment.

    Since 2014, the number of victims has started to rise again. Ongoing armed conflicts, such as Russia’s military aggression in Ukraine, bring new contamination from mines and other weapons. The effects of urban warfare and the use of improvised explosive devices are particularly severe.

    These developments reflect the global situation, which is marked by growing geopolitical tensions.

    This makes it all the more important, especially in view of the rising number of victims, to continue our efforts to improve the protection of the civilian population from the dangers of mines and other remnants of war.

    Humanitarian demining is not only a matter of safety, but also a precondition for recovery, in particular for the resumption of agricultural production and the education of children.

    I call on all states to join the Ottawa Convention and the Convention on Cluster Munitions, and to support them to the best of their abilities.
     
    Excellencies,
    Ladies and Gentlemen,

    Four months ago, the international community met on the Bürgenstock for the Summit on Peace in Ukraine. At the opening, I spoke of our goal to set in motion a process that will lead to a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.

    The current conference follows on from this, because living in peace also means being free from the fear of mines and remnants of war.
    Switzerland has been committed to humanitarian demining for over 30 years. We support projects in affected countries and deploy specialist military personnel.

    We are also committed to the diplomatic, legal and practical implementation of the relevant conventions around the world.

    We are determined to continue to do our part in Ukraine as well.

    Almost a quarter of Ukraine’s territory is contaminated with explosive ordnance.
    Last year we decided to make one hundred million francs available for humanitarian mine action in Ukraine (from 2024 to 2027).

    The Geneva International Centre for Humanitarian Demining (GICHD) and the Fondation suisse de déminage (FSD) are primarily responsible for implementing this programme.

    Projects will be developed in close cooperation with Ukraine’s civilian authorities. They will include mine and explosive ordnance clearance, the promotion of standards and quality in mine clearance, training, and operational and material support.

    Last year, provided the State Emergency Service of Ukraine (SESU) with a remote-controlled demining machine from the Digger Foundation.

    This year, we will deliver three more machines from Global Clearance Solutions and provide local training and support.

    This will enable Ukraine to carry out effective and safe demining operations independently in the future.

    Excellencies,
    Ladies and gentlemen,

    For today’s Ukraine Mine Action Conference here in Lausanne, we have set ourselves the following goals:

    –    We aim to raise awareness of the importance of humanitarian mine action in Ukraine and worldwide.
    –    Stimulate further support going forward, based on the Ukrainian Mine Action Strategy, which provides guidance for current and future partnerships.
    –    And showcase innovative solutions that will make mine clearance safer and more effective worldwide.

    Three thematic areas were defined in the run-up to the Ukraine Mine Action Conference: people, partners and progress.

    First, the people: In the face of the immense suffering and lasting damage caused by mines, cluster munitions and explosive remnants of war, we must act decisively.

    Contamination in conflict areas also affects many countries not involved in the conflict. For example, food prices are rising in many countries because Ukrainian land cannot be used safely and productively.

    Then, the partners: Our aim is for other countries that are also affected by mines or that are providing aid to share their experiences with Ukraine and its partners.
     
    For mine action to be effective, governments, international organisations, NGOs, the private sector and the scientific community must work closely together – and they are all gathered here in Lausanne today.

    And finally, progress: We must work continuously to make humanitarian mine action safer and more effective.

    We need to find innovative solutions, for example by combining the use of artificial intelligence, powerful drones and robots.
     
    The resources we use to clear mines in Ukraine today are also an investment to improve humanitarian demining globally in the future.

    Excellences,
    Ladies and gentlemen,

    Humanitarian demining is part of Switzerland’s humanitarian tradition. We want to help alleviate suffering and enable sustainable development.

    That is also the aim of this conference, which we have organised together with Ukraine.

    In closing, I would like to express my sincere thanks to all of you for your dedication and commitment.

    Your presence here underscores the crucial support that is so urgently needed and that the people living in mine-affected countries deserve.

    Thank you very much.

    Address for enquiries

    DDPS Communication
    Federal Palace East
    CH-3003 Bern

    Publisher

    Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sports
    http://www.vbs.admin.ch

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Delivering a skills passport for the Clean Energy Transition

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Joint letter from Secretary of State and Gillian Martin MSP to the Chief Executives of Offshore Energies UK (OEUK) and Renewable UK on the department’s involvement in the Energy Skills Passport project.

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    Energy Skills Passport: joint ministerial letter

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    A joint letter from the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) and the Scottish Government to David Whitehouse, Chief Executive of Offshore Energies UK (OEUK) and Dan McGrail, Chief Executive of Renewable UK announcing that the department will be coming onboard to assist with the industry-led Energy Skills Passport project.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 October 2024

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  • MIL-OSI Global: Egypt-Ethiopia hostilities are playing out in the Horn – the risk of new proxy wars is high

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Endalcachew Bayeh, Lecturer and Researcher, Bahir Dar University

    Egypt recently deepened its involvement in the war-weary Horn of Africa by arming Somalia and deploying its troops in the embattled country. To Ethiopia’s growing alarm, Egypt is also set to join the multinational force supporting the Somali army against the jihadist threat by al-Shabaab. Egypt’s potentially destabilising presence in the region is seen a direct consequence of Ethiopia’s port agreement with breakaway Somaliland, which Somalia took as a direct affront. Endalcachew Bayeh, a political scholar with a focus on the Horn of Africa, sets out the risks and the path to de-escalation.

    What do we know about Egypt’s entry into Somalia and the theatre of conflict in the Horn?

    Egypt’s arrival in the Horn of Africa can be traced back to Ethiopia’s quest for a dedicated port under its control. Ethiopia is the world’s largest landlocked country by population and has relied exclusively on the port of Djibouti since the outbreak of the Ethiopia-Eritrea war (1998-2000).

    Ethiopia has been exploring alternative access points. This led to the announcement on 1 January 2024 that it had struck a port deal with Somaliland. Ethiopia agreed to recognise the breakaway republic in exchange for a naval base on Somaliland’s coast.

    The announcement sparked a diplomatic rift with Somalia, which viewed the deal as a violation of its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Somalia still considers self-declared Somaliland part of its territory.

    Amid the turmoil, Somalia courted Egypt as a regional patron to counter Ethiopia. This aligned well with Egypt’s increasing interest in finding a military partner along Ethiopia’s border.

    Egypt is a longstanding rival of Ethiopia. Recently, it threatened to go to war over Ethiopia’s massive Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, which it sees as a threat to its survival.

    Egypt deployed military forces in Somalia following its defence deal with Mogadishu in August 2024. It also plans to deploy 5,000 soldiers as part of the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia. The mission is set to replace the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia, in which Ethiopia is a main player.

    Ethiopia’s agreement to recognise Somaliland and the friction with Somalia have brought its old enemy, Egypt, to its doorstep.

    How have Egypt-Ethiopia hostilities added to regional tensions?

    Soon after Egypt’s deployment in Somalia, Ethiopia formalised its recognition of Somaliland. It also sent an ambassador to the capital, Hargeisa. This made it the first nation to officially acknowledge Somaliland’s independence. The two are also rushing to turn their memorandum of understanding into a binding bilateral treaty.

    Somaliland ordered the closure of the Egyptian Cultural Library in Hargeisa.

    Eritrea, for a time a key ally of Ethiopia’s Abiy Ahmed in the fight against the Tigray People’s Liberation Front, is now at odds with Addis Ababa. And, in response to the recent tensions in the region, Eritrea is strengthening its ties with Egypt and Somalia. A recent meeting of the three has created a united front against Ethiopia.

    In Somalia, Ethiopia plays a stabilising role. Somalia now demands that Ethiopia should end its involvement. That could open the way for militant groups and keep Somalia unstable. This is even more likely to happen if Egypt focuses on its competition with Ethiopia rather than Somalia’s stability.

    In addition, Somalis have longstanding territorial claims over parts of Ethiopia, Kenya and Djibouti. Instability can create fertile ground for groups like Al-Shabaab, which aims to include these territories in an Islamic state.

    Finally, tensions have risen between Djibouti and Somaliland over the Ethiopia-Somaliland port deal. This is because the agreement will almost certainly be bad for Djibouti’s economy. Djibouti relies heavily on port revenues that are almost entirely generated from Ethiopia.

    What are the risks for the region?

    Ethiopia’s recognition of Somaliland and Egypt’s presence in Somalia come at a time of multiple regional crises. These include the strained Ethiopia-Eritrea relations, the Ethiopia-Sudan dispute over Al-Fashaga border region, and instability in Ethiopia.

    This volatile environment increases the likelihood of proxy wars.

    Key areas to watch are:

    Sudan and Egypt: These two countries align on the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam issue. Egypt has enhanced its security cooperation with Sudan through military support and joint exercises. Although Sudan is in turmoil, the Al-Fashaga dispute with Ethiopia remains a potential flashpoint. Egypt may take advantage of this dispute and its support for the Sudanese Armed Forces against the Rapid Support Forces to further its interests.

    Instability in Ethiopia: In several regions, the government is engaged in active conflict with non-state forces. This instability creates fertile ground for Egypt to potentially support proxies against the Ethiopian government. Egypt and Somalia have already expressed the possibility of using proxy forces.

    Egypt’s main motivation for intervening in the region is to control the Nile’s source or hinder Ethiopia’s use of the water. As a result, Ethiopia perceives Egypt’s presence at its doorstep as a direct security threat. This increases tensions between Egypt, Somalia and Ethiopia.

    Any further destabilisation of Ethiopia would disrupt the entire region, as it shares porous borders with almost all countries in the Horn.

    What are the potential avenues for de-escalation?

    A promising pathway for reducing tensions in Somalia and the broader region is for the two regional powers to reconsider their strategies and exercise restraint.

    Ethiopia can access the sea through Somaliland without formal recognition. This could ease tensions and would not encourage separatist movements.

    For Egypt, a more constructive approach would be to limit its direct involvement in the Horn of Africa. Instead, it should address its concerns about the Ethiopian mega-dam through the United Nations, the African Union and other platforms. Historically, its unilateral actions have often been sources of tensions rather than solutions in the region.

    The African Union and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development must ensure that the regional states themselves address regional issues. States must make wise decisions now to calm tensions, as no state will be spared from the spillover effects.

    Endalcachew Bayeh 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. Egypt-Ethiopia hostilities are playing out in the Horn – the risk of new proxy wars is high – https://theconversation.com/egypt-ethiopia-hostilities-are-playing-out-in-the-horn-the-risk-of-new-proxy-wars-is-high-241402

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Wheelyboat 123 report published

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Capsize of a recreational craft on Roadford Lake, Devon with the loss of two lives.

    Today, we have published our accident investigation report into the capsize of Wheelyboat 123 on Roadford Lake, Devon, England on 8 June 2022, resulting in two fatalities.

    Chief Inspector of Marine Accidents, Andrew Moll OBE, said:

    Trips on the wheelyboat were beneficial for the continuing wellbeing and therapy of the residents of the care home; however, no-one had taken time to properly consider the risks associated with taking the wheelchair users afloat, either before the accident or on the day itself.

    The condition of the wheelyboat had been allowed to deteriorate so water could enter it, and on the day no-one recognised the implications of carrying vulnerable people who were strapped into heavy motorised wheelchairs around a lake in an open boat. In short, no-one had their eye on the risk, and tragically Alison Tilsley and Alex Wood lost their lives.

    As well as the catalogue of failings highlighted by the report, the investigation has also uncovered a worrying lack of oversight which must be seen as an impetus for urgent action. Charitable activities such as this seem to fall into a grey zone with no organisation or authority in a position of oversight. This meant that no-one stepped in to question what had become custom and practice. Addressing this is not simple and may only be possible with a change in the law; however, the current situation is not something that should be tolerated.

    The report, available via this link, contains details of what happened, subsequent actions taken and recommendations.

    Media enquiries (telephone only)

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    Published 17 October 2024

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK and New Zealand agree blueprint for satellite removal and servicing missions

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The UK and New Zealand space agencies have signed a blueprint for the removal and servicing of operational satellites that are very close together or making contact with one another.

    Contains modified Copernicus Sentinel data, processed by ESA

    The arrangement, signed at the International Astronautical Congress in Milan, is designed to support missions in the fast-growing areas of in-orbit servicing, space debris removal and satellite refuelling, known as ‘rendezvous and proximity’ operations.  

    Modern society is increasingly reliant on satellite technology and the Earth’s orbits are more crowded than ever before. There is an urgent need to invest in new technologies that can help remove debris from space and keep satellites operating for longer.  

    However, these complex missions involve moving spacecraft close to one another, and the novel nature of these missions raises difficult questions around the application of international rules and guidelines, particularly if launched and operated by more than one nation. Given the importance of improving space sustainability, New Zealand and the UK have been exploring ways to reduce the legal, policy, and regulatory barriers, and uncertainty associated with multistate rendezvous and proximity missions. 

    The work between the UK and New Zealand is designed to demonstrate how international corporation in this area can keep space sustainable for current and future generations. It provides a set of principles for allocating liability between different states involved in the different stages of these missions. It does this within the framework set out in the Convention on International Liability for Damage Caused by Space Objects (the ‘Liability Convention’), as well as principles around licensing and information sharing.  

    As the Liability Convention was established in 1972, when most space missions were led by governments rather than companies, the UK and New Zealand are hoping to make its application to the current space age easier to navigate, reducing barriers for industry to carry out these important mission types.    

    Iain Cossar, Head of the New Zealand Space Agency and Dr Paul Bate, Chief Executive of the UK Space Agency sign the arrangement at IAC 2024 in Milan.

    Dr Paul Bate, Chief Executive of the UK Space Agency said:  

    As space leaders from across the world gather in Milan this week, we’re pleased to agree with our partners in New Zealand a world-first arrangement to help ease the way for future missions that can help keep space sustainable.  

    In-orbit servicing and manufacturing and space debris removal are high-growth areas for the global space sector, and we hope our work with New Zealand can act as a blueprint for other nations to follow and benefit from.

    Iain Cossar, Head of the New Zealand Space Agency said: 

    We place a lot of importance on space sustainability in New Zealand, and this agreement with the UK demonstrates our commitment to ensuring our space environment is safe and sustainable.  

    The arrangement outlines how we will cooperate on active debris removal and in-orbit servicing missions.  

    The principles and guidance we have developed could apply more broadly to other states, and like the UK, we hope this work can serve as a blueprint to enable these important activities internationally as we look to address the challenges posed by orbital debris.

    New Zealand is home to the world’s first private spaceport which has conducted 49 launches to date. The UK is due to host its first vertical orbital launches from spaceports in Scotland in 2025, following the first horizontal launch attempt from Spaceport Cornwall last year.  

    Independent research published in 2022 estimates the global market for In-Orbit Services and Manufacturing to be $14.3 billion. A 2023 report from the UKspace trade association puts the opportunity for the UK at £2.7 billion.

    Joanne Wheeler, Managing Director of the Earth & Space Sustainability Initiative, said:

    This agreement between the UK and New Zealand space agencies for the removal and servicing of satellites shows real leadership in this important area of space sustainability and is an excellent example of the all-important international collaboration that is vital to the sustainability of space.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Viability risks intensifying for some landlords, warns Regulator of Social Housing

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The Regulator of Social Housing (RSH) has today set out the main risks facing the social housing sector.

    Its annual sector risk profile report shows that viability risks have intensified over the last year, and social landlords are facing significant and competing pressures to deliver both more and better social homes against a backdrop of higher borrowing costs.

    Though the sector remains resilient overall, many landlords have less capacity to deal with new challenges. This requires more active management from boards, with less margin for error in decision making.

    It is a fundamental responsibility of all landlords to ensure that tenants are safe in their homes. They must prioritise essential safety work, including issues with cladding on high-rise buildings, and tackle other issues like damp and mould. It is absolutely critical that landlords continue to be well run and financially viable, so they can carry out this important safety work, identify issues before they happen, and build new homes for people on waiting lists.

    London and other urban areas are experiencing the most acute financial pressures particularly where large numbers of flats need building safety works.

    These challenges are expected to persist for the foreseeable future, as social housing undergoes a long-term shift, with higher borrowing costs and an ongoing need to maintain and invest in tenants’ existing homes and build much needed new homes for the future.

    Fiona MacGregor, Chief Executive at RSH, said:

    Most housing associations are investing record amounts in new and existing homes without threatening their financial viability.

    However, some individual landlords face particular pressures, and we expect those to sustain for some time before the position eases.

    There is very little margin for error, and it is absolutely critical that landlords are well run, with robust  systems for identifying and mitigating risks.  

    Boards must maintain a real clarity of purpose to successfully navigate these competing demands while remaining financially viable.

    For the first time since 2009, the cost of servicing debt for private registered providers (PRPs) exceeded net earnings last year. In aggregate terms, forecast sector interest cover over the next five years is just 111%.

    RSH has a range of tools – including inspections, yearly stability checks and quarterly surveys – to identify emerging risks and work with landlords to mitigate these as far as possible.

    RSH has already identified a number of individual landlords who were not financially viable and who have since merged with others to protect tenants’ homes and lenders’ capital. RSH expects that more individual landlords will fail to meet the outcomes in its economic standards over the coming months, as this challenging environment continues.

    Notes to editors

    1. The Sector Risk Profile sets out the regulator’s view of the most significant risks to providers’ ongoing compliance with its regulatory standards. The report is aimed primarily at boards of housing associations and other private registered providers and, where relevant, the councillors forming the governing bodies of local authority registered providers.
    2. The Sector Risk Profile has a particular focus on risks to delivering the outcomes required by RSH’s economic standards. RSH’s annual consumer regulation review provides examples from recent casework that providers can learn from to help strengthen their approach.
    3. The Regulator of Social Housing promotes a viable, efficient and well-governed social housing sector able to deliver and maintain homes of appropriate quality that meet a range of needs. It does this by undertaking robust economic regulation focusing on governance, financial viability and value for money that maintains lender confidence and protects the  taxpayer. It also sets consumer standards and may take action if the outcomes in these standards are not delivered.
    4. Local authorities must meet RSH’s new consumer standards but RSH does not regulate their governance or financial viability.

    For general enquiries email enquiries@rsh.gov.uk. For media enquiries please see our Media Enquiries page.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 October 2024

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: GRECO: Conclusion of fourth round of evaluations

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Justice and Police

    Federal Office of Justice
    Bern, 17.10.2024 – –
    GRECO (the Council of Europe’s Group of States against Corruption) acknowledges Switzerland’s efforts to prevent corruption among judges and members of parliament in the Second Addendum to its Second Compliance Report. The Report will be published today, 17 October. This concludes GRECO’s fourth round of evaluations.
    Address for enquiries
    Olivier Gonin, Federal Office of Justice, T +41 58 463 08 50, olivier.gonin@bj.admin.ch

    Publisher
    Federal Office of Justicehttp://www.bj.admin.ch

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Stormont has no idea how many times Michael McMonagle entered Stormont since being charged

    Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

    Statement by TUV MLA Timothy Gaston:

    “While there has been justified focus on the pay arrangements for Michael McMonagle, something which has received relatively little attention is the fact that because Sinn Fein, and specifically North Antrim MLA Philip McGuigan, failed to cancel his pass he could come and go as he pleased from Parliament Buildings.

    “In order to probe this issue I asked the Assembly Commission to detail the number of times, including dates, that Michael McMonagle entered Parliament Buildings since being charged with sexual offences against children; and any groups, including schools and youth groups, that visited Parliament Buildings on the dates Michael McMonagle was in Parliament Buildings during this period.

    “The Commission has now confirmed, as I suspected they would, that they have no idea.

    “We therefore have a situation where someone suspected of sexual offences against children – who has since admitted his guilt – was left with the means to come and go from Parliament Buildings while charged with serious offences and no one has any idea if he availed of the opportunity, facilitated by Philip McGuigan, to do so.

    “There are profoundly serious child protection issues involved here – issues which should not be ignored merely because the political and media establishment believe that the rotten institutions of the Belfast Agreement are more important than child safety.”

    Note to editors

    Mr Gaston’s question and the Commission’s answer are as follows:

    To ask the Assembly Commission to detail (i) the number of times, including dates, that Michael McMonagle entered Parliament Buildings since being charged with sexual offences against children; and (ii) any groups, including schools and youth groups, that visited Parliament Buildings on the dates Michael McMonagle was in Parliament Buildings during this period.
    (AQW 16576/22-27)

    Data relative to the use of Assembly ID passes is retained on the Assembly’s Visitor Management System for a period of 90 days after use. The pass issued to Michael McMonagle was cancelled on 1 October 2024, and there is no record of it being used in the preceding 90 days which extend back until 4 July 2024. It has been widely reported that Mr McMonagle attended a publicity event in the Great Hall on 14 February 2023.

    When Mr McMonagle attended the Great Hall on 14 February 2023, he used a visitor pass. These passes are valid for one day and are issued to any visitor to Parliament Buildings.

    Yours sincerely
    Trevor Clarke MLA

    (On behalf of the Assembly Commission)

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Humanitarian mine clearance: Confederation establishes comprehensive partnership with Ukraine’s civil protection service and Swiss mine clearance company

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport

    Bern, 17.10.2024 – In order to reduce the danger posed by mines and other explosive ordnance in Ukraine, the Swiss government is supporting Ukraine’s civil protection service through a partnership with the Swiss company Global Clearance Solutions (GCS). The partnership involves supplying three mine clearance systems to Ukraine alongside a comprehensive training, mentoring and logistics package. The package, which amounts to CHF 4.6 million, is being funded by the federal government and underlines the importance of humanitarian mine clearance for the country’s recovery.

    Mines and other explosive ordnance in the ground pose a danger to the civilian population, restrict agricultural work and hinder the reconstruction of a country. In Ukraine, around 139,000 square kilometres of land are estimated to be contaminated by mines and other explosive ordnance. That is equivalent to about three and a half times the surface area of Switzerland. Humanitarian mine clearance in Ukraine is therefore a priority for Switzerland. For that reason, the federal government has signed a contract with the Swiss company Global Clearance Solutions (GCS) for the delivery of three mine clearance systems to the State Emergency Service of Ukraine (SESU). The package, which includes a training and mentoring programme, is worth CHF 4.6 million.

    The project aims to strengthen the capacities of the Ukrainian civil authorities so that humanitarian demining operations can be carried out more safely, efficiently and effectively. In addition to the delivery of the three demining systems, the contract includes an extensive training, mentoring and logistics package. GCS has its own maintenance centre and operations team in Ukraine, enabling the company to provide extensive training and deploy the demining systems sustainably and efficiently.

    The partnership and the demining systems are being financed out of the CHF 100 million that the Federal Council made available on 29 September 2023 to support humanitarian mine clearance in Ukraine. The total amount will be funded equally by the DDPS and the FDFA. Through this support package, Switzerland is providing its expertise to help overcome an immense humanitarian challenge. In addition, Switzerland, under the lead of President Viola Amherd and Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, is jointly hosting the Ukraine Mine Action Conference with Ukraine in Lausanne on 17 and 18 October. The importance of mine clearance for Ukraine’s recovery will be discussed at the conference.

    The federal government is working closely with the Geneva International Centre for Humanitarian Demining (GICHD) on humanitarian mine clearance in Ukraine. The GICHD is supporting the Ukrainian authorities in developing a national demining programme. In addition, the federal government is supporting the demining work of the Swiss Foundation for Mine Action (FSD) on the ground in Ukraine. A year ago, the DDPS presented Ukraine with a remote-controlled demining machine from the Swiss DIGGER Foundation.

    Address for enquiries

    DDPS Communications
    +41 58 464 50 58
    kommunikation@gs-vbs.admin.ch

    FDFA Communications
    +41 58 460 55 55

    Global Clearance Solutions
    +41 55 511 15 00
    media@gcs.ch

    Publisher

    Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sports
    http://www.vbs.admin.ch

    Defence
    http://www.vtg.admin.ch

    State Secretariat for Security Policy
    https://www.sepos.admin.ch/de

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The UK’s new industrial strategy is welcome, but here’s what is missing

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Phil Tomlinson, Professor of Industrial Strategy, Co-Director Centre for Governance, Regulation and Industrial Strategy (CGR&IS), University of Bath

    Panya7/Shutterstock

    The UK government’s plan to create a new industrial strategy is a welcome attempt to steer Britain’s economy through the challenges of the 21st century. Amid a backdrop of global economic uncertainty, a clear focus on achieving growth is essential.

    The plan is at an early stage. The new green paper marks the beginning of a consultation process designed to shape future government policy.

    But creating an industrial strategy in the first place – to coordinate a wide range of economic policies – is commendable. For too long, the UK has been lagging behind other countries which have embraced greater government intervention in their economies.

    And the idea of having that strategy overseen by an “industrial strategy council”, to offer a degree of independent oversight, is a good one. If set up properly, this council should encapsulate the idea of industrial strategy as a partnership between the state and business – a collaborative effort to discover new opportunities and develop new policies.

    It is also pleasing to see the green paper hasn’t shied away from some of the big issues. There is appropriate emphasis on geography, and creating opportunities in “left behind places”. For too long, economic growth in Britain has been disproportionately concentrated in London and the south-east.

    Empowering local leaders in other regions to shape industrial policies, tailored to their specific needs, is a step in the right direction.

    The emphasis on addressing the UK’s clapped-out infrastructure is also wise. Pledges to invest in broadband, electricity supply, rail and roads should lay the groundwork for a more interconnected economy. There is evidence that improved connectivity could attract new investment and boost regional productivity in areas that have been economically stagnant for decades.

    There are also promises to increase public investment in research and development
    in emerging industries such as AI and clean energy. The vision for a modern, hi-tech economy driven by innovation is much needed in a county which currently ranks 25th in the global robotics league table, the only G7 nation outside the top 20.

    But there are also risks to such a technology-centred approach, which could easily be at odds with the goal of tackling regional inequality. Indeed, given new investment tends to flow to existing hi-tech regions, the divide between successful and left-behind places could widen.

    The plan’s green focus is also timely. By prioritising clean energy and investment in sectors such as electric vehicles, the strategy aligns with goals for achieving net zero emissions by 2050.

    Mission impossible?

    However, other issues also need to be included in the government’s plans. There is no consideration of geopolitics in the green paper. Yet any effective UK industrial strategy has to account for the impact of China and the US, and their ongoing tensions.

    Similarly – and strangely – Brexit is hardly mentioned. Despite post-Brexit disruption to trade with the EU continuing to act as a drag on investment and growth, the green paper merely skirts around the issue. Nor is there anything about how industries deeply reliant on EU supply chains and markets (such as car manufacturing) can thrive outside the European single market.

    Southampton docks.
    Ssisabal/Shutterstock

    Workers in traditional manufacturing, and in sectors such as retail, hospitality and care, will also need to hear more about support and retraining. The government needs to be mindful of not increasing a sense of polarisation between those who benefit from a green hi-tech revolution, and those who don’t.

    And there will need to be much more detail about funding. The Labour government is keen to attract investors – the green paper was published on the same day as a high-profile investment summit in London, which featured impressive international attendees enjoying fine food and high-calibre entertainment.

    But heavy reliance on private sector investment raises questions about accountability. For, while public-private partnerships can be effective, there is always a risk that private sector interests may not align with the needs of everyone else.

    Overall, the green paper is the starting point for a critical national conversation about the UK’s economic future. The road to tangible success will depend on translating ideas into concrete actions, dealing with inevitable trade-offs, and being brave enough to address some deep structural issues. If it does, the green paper could turn into a blueprint for a genuinely resilient and competitive country.

    Phil Tomlinson receives funding from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) for Made Smarter Innovation: Centre for People-Led Digitalisation.

    David Bailey receives funding from the Economic and Social Research Council’s UK in a Changing Europe Programme.

    Michael A. Lewis currently receives funding from the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) and the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC).

    – ref. The UK’s new industrial strategy is welcome, but here’s what is missing – https://theconversation.com/the-uks-new-industrial-strategy-is-welcome-but-heres-what-is-missing-241410

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: SLC pays over £5billion in student finance since the start of the academic year

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    By Jackie Currie, SLC Executive Director, Business Operations

    At the Student Loans Company, we remain at the forefront of supporting the education sector by providing trusted, transparent, and accessible student finance services.  SLC enables more than 1.5 million students each year to invest in their futures by providing financial support to access further and higher education.  And we have marked another significant milestone in the 24/25 delivery of student finance to the education sector, paying more than £2 billion pounds in tuition fees to higher education colleges and universities this week.

    On Wednesday, 16 October, we paid £2.3 billion in tuition fees to education providers on behalf of almost students. This follows the almost £3 billion that was paid in maintenance loans to students since the start of academic term in September.

    In total, SLC has paid over £5 billion* in student finance in the 24/25 year so far.

    Currently, our primary focus is on providing additional financial support to students who applied after the deadlines and have received the minimum level of student finance.  We’re also processing application from students who are still applying and for those on courses starting in January.

    Where a student applied late for funding, we awarded the minimum maintenance loan and their tuition fee loan to ensure they had funding to start their term, their remaining funding is paid to them as a top-up payment once all necessary application details are confirmed.

    For students who are still applying for their finance, or yet to apply such as those starting courses in January there’s a range of advice on applying at: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/students-from-england-can-find-answers-to-their-questions–2

    *Please note these are provisional figures. Full year figures are published in our Student Support for Higher Education statistical release which will be published on 28 November 2024.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Passengers to enjoy cleaner travel between UK and Europe  

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    New green corridors could boost use of sustainable fuels, secure green jobs of the future and advance environmentally friendly travel within Europe.

    • world’s first ‘green shipping corridors’ to be created between the UK and Europe, accessing prime destinations like Amsterdam, Oslo, Copenhagen and Dublin  
    • up to £9 million investment to decarbonise shipping and turbocharge green jobs of the future  
    • 30 projects across the country will also receive a share of funding to make smarter, cleaner shipping a reality 

    Passengers could reap the rewards of greener travel by sea thanks to the development of new shipping routes only accessible to zero emission vessels. 

    Maritime Minister Mike Kane today (17 October 2024) announced the new projects which will receive funds to develop these future routes, including the Port of Tyne to the Port of Ijmuiden (Netherlands) and the Port of Holyhead to the Port of Dublin.   

    The Department for Transport (DfT) is also funding the development of green shipping routes from the UK to Norway and Demark – the organisations that will lead these are soon to be announced.   

    Green corridors are zero emission maritime routes between 2 or more ports. The UK led the development of green corridors through the launch of the Clydebank Declaration at COP26.

    Once developed, should the world’s biggest shipping companies operate along these greener routes, it could transform the ‘fast shopping’ industry, making the global shipment of goods more environmentally friendly.

    Maritime Minister, Mike Kane, said:   

    Shipping is a big contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, so these new green corridors could be a real game changer for industry.   

    This is exactly the direction we need to be going in to achieve our mission of becoming a clean energy superpower.   

    These new corridors could turbocharge the use of sustainable fuels, secure the green jobs of the future and advance environmentally friendly travel to major European capitals like Amsterdam and Dublin.

    The funding comes from the  fifth round of the government’s Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition (CMDC5), which focuses on driving innovative solutions and new technologies to decarbonise the industry and grow the economy.    

    Matt Beeton, CEO of the Port of Tyne, said:

    Today’s funding announcement will support the development of port infrastructure for electrification and the refuelling of state-of-the-art clean powered vessels. This important green infrastructure will ensure that the Port of Tyne and the Port of Ijmuiden are supporting decarbonised routes between the North East of England and Europe with the aim of saving up to 850,000 tonnes of CO2 annually.

    Bolstered by the Maritime Innovation Hub, the Port of Tyne continues to drive sustainable innovation and act as a focal point for a growing European decarbonised distribution network for green trade and passenger journeys.

    The River Tyne fuelled the industrial revolution and now it’s at the forefront of greening international logistics.

    Visiting the Port of Tyne, the Maritime Minister also announced separate funding to help make sea travel cleaner and smarter.   

    Up to £8 million of match funding will be given to 30 projects across the UK to accelerate plans to develop smart technologies, such as autonomous systems, AI, robotics and sensors.   

    These technologies will help position the UK as a world leader in maritime decarbonisation and will support economic growth and coastal communities by delivering local jobs and boosting local businesses.  

    Mike Biddle, Executive Director for Net Zero at Innovate UK, said:

    Like so many industries, the maritime sector is under immense pressure to decarbonise its transport and process methods. Innovate UK is proud to be a key delivery partner for DfT’s UK SHORE programme, which provides a unique platform for innovators and collaborators to demonstrate real-world solutions to some of the sector’s most pressing challenges.

    With this year’s round of competitions delivering a host of exciting prospective technologies, from smart shipping drones to methanol-fuelled vessels, UK SHORE looks to accelerate the adoption of these sustainable solutions and help the UK drive towards its net zero targets.

    This latest round of funding comes from the £206 million UK SHORE programme which is focused on decarbonising the UK maritime sector through tech innovation.

    Maritime media enquiries

    Media enquiries 0300 7777 878

    Switchboard 0300 330 3000

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: IKEA Foundation supports MSF in scale-up for underreported Sudan crisis

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières

    Geneva, 17 October, 2024: The war in Sudan, now 550 days in, has triggered one of the most devastating humanitarian crises in decades. 

    According to the UN, one in five people has been displaced, and half of the country’s people face acute food insecurity. Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF), with over 1,000 staff running 15 hospitals, 9 health centres, and mobile clinics in Sudan, is scaling up the response thanks to €35 million from the IKEA Foundation. 

    Despite these efforts, the needs of people remain overwhelming and a collective increase in aid is urgently required.

    “This life-changing gift will allow us to respond to the medical needs, providing access to free health care services, and giving displaced people the opportunity to be treated and live a healthy life,” says Alaa Ahmed, an MSF nurse working in Sudan.

    “The Sudan war is  a massive, underreported emergency”, says Stephen Cornish, Director General of MSF’s Operational Centre in Geneva. “We are grateful to the IKEA Foundation and other donors who have stepped up for the people of Sudan. We are determined to deliver more lifesaving treatment for those in need.”

    In response to this escalating crisis, the IKEA Foundation—a long-standing partner of MSF, as part of the Foundation’s focus on underreported emergencies—has committed €35 million to help MSF scale up efforts.

    “This is now one of the largest humanitarian crises in the world,” says Jessica Anderen, CEO of the IKEA Foundation. “We are humbled by the work MSF is doing to support the Sudanese people and encourage other funders to join us in supporting their efforts.”

    “This devastating situation is not getting the attention or funding it deserves. More needs to be done to provide critical support for those impacted,” says Hayley Kornblum, Programme Manager at the IKEA Foundation. “We are so encouraged to see other private sector organisations, like Mastercard Foundation, taking strong action through donations to UNHCR, but much more is required from both government and the private sector.”

    The war in Sudan has displaced over 10 million people within the country and driven nearly three million more to seek refuge in neighbouring countries, such as Chad and South Sudan. Over half of Sudan’s population—around 25.6 million people—are now facing critical levels of food insecurity, according to the UN.

    MSF is scaling up relief and lifesaving activities, focusing on treating severely malnourished children, and addressing the needs of displaced people and refugees. In addition, MSF is providing water and sanitation services, and ensuring the delivery of essential aid in refugee camps, like Adré transit camp in Chad, where MSF teams provide over one million litres of water per day.

    MSF Australia was established in 1995 and is one of 24 international MSF sections committed to delivering medical humanitarian assistance to people in crisis. In 2022, more than 120 project staff from Australia and New Zealand worked with MSF on assignment overseas. MSF delivers medical care based on need alone and operates independently of government, religion or economic influence and irrespective of race, religion or gender. For more information visit msf.org.au  

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –