NewzIntel.com

Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Applications for free education for foreign citizens have begun to be accepted

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    The selection campaign for the 2025-2026 academic year has started for foreign citizens wishing to study in Russia at the expense of the budgetary funds of the Russian Federation. Registration forportal of the information system will last until January 15, 2025, and all interested parties must submit applications by the established deadline.

    To participate in the selection tests, candidates must register on the specified website and fill out a questionnaire. Those planning to study in graduate school must provide not only a questionnaire, but also a list of published scientific papers and/or a motivation letter. This letter must include information about education, university, specialty, as well as achievements in scientific activity. This will help the commission assess the level of preparation and motivation of candidates.

    The completed application form must be transferred to the status “for verification” within the established timeframe, since applications in the status “draft” will not be considered. Candidates can also provide information about their individual achievements, which will be taken into account during the selection: participation in internships, conferences and other scientific events.

    If any questions or difficulties with registration arise, candidates can contact technical support via their personal account on the website or contact the Rossotrudnichestvo Representative Office in their country.

    Faryal Dehkan, a postgraduate student at the Institute of Industrial Management, Economics and Trade of SPbPU, is studying under the Rossotrudnichestvo quota. Here is what she said about her admission to the Polytechnic University: This is an important step in my life, and like many other students, I experienced mixed feelings of joy and anxiety. The first days on the Polytechnic campus were filled with curiosity about new subjects, teachers and teaching methods. Students here feel like part of a large and diverse group, which inspires us to learn and develop.

    International students are given a unique opportunity to receive a high-level education in Russia and become part of the international university community.

    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/education/accepting-applications-for-free-training-for-foreign-citizens has begun/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: UK: David Lammy must use China visit to challenge Beijing’s brutal suppression of human rights

    Source: Amnesty International –

    © AFP via Getty Images

    ‘The Government should ensure that talks on trade and security relations with China aren’t pursued at the expense of human rights’- Sacha Deshmukh

    Commenting on Foreign Secretary David Lammy’s first visit to China expected to take place tomorrow and Saturday, Sacha Deshmukh, Amnesty International UK’s Chief Executive, said:

    “This visit is a crucial opportunity for the Foreign Secretary to demonstrate the Government’s true commitment to challenging publicly and privately Beijing’s brutal suppression of human rights in China and Hong Kong.

    “Behind closed doors but also in public, David Lammy needs to tackle the Chinese government over its systematic, industrial-scale repression of ethnic minorities in Xinjiang and Tibet, its widespread imprisonment of peaceful activists and its completely unacceptable intimidation of students and campaigners here in the UK.  

    “The Prime Minister’s statement that the immediate release of the unjustly-imprisoned UK businessman Jimmy Lai is a UK priority is welcome, and Mr Lammy should also seek to secure the immediate release of fellow prisoners of conscience Hong Kong lawyer-activist Chow Hang-tung and Chinese human rights lawyer Ding Jiaxi, as well as the long-held Uighur economist Ilham Tohti and #MeToo activists Sophia Huang Xueqin and Wang Jianbing.

    “Throughout this trip, the Government should ensure that talks on trade and security relations with China aren’t pursued at the expense of human rights.”

    Long arm of Chinese state repression

    The Chinese authorities routinely target peaceful critics via pervasive online censorship, arbitrary arrest, detention and torture. Human rights defenders, pro-democracy activists and religious leaders and practitioners have been among those subjected to systematic persecution. The widespread repression of ethnic minorities in Xinjiang and Tibet has continued despite significant international criticism.

    In Hong Kong, journalists, broadcasters and book publishers have been among those prosecuted and imprisoned under the territory’s notorious National Security Law and other repressive legislation, while civil society organisations both in Hong Kong and abroad have faced criminal charges or harassment for their legitimate activities. The long arm of Chinese state repression has meant that Chinese and Hong Kong communities in the UK, other parts of Europe and North America have all suffered various kinds of threats and intimidation, part of a sinister pattern of “transnational repression”.

    View latest press releases

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: We Can Do Better

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    Speech by Kristalina Georgieva, Managing Director, IMF

    October 17, 2024

    Thank you, Andrea, for your kind words. And thanks to all of you for coming.

    Five years ago in this hall I delivered my first curtain-raiser as head of the IMF.

    At that time my main concern was a synchronized slowdown in global growth. Only months later it paled in comparison with the sudden shock of the pandemic, followed by other dramatic events—the tragic wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, the cost-of-living crisis, and a further fracturing of the global economy.

    Next week, the world’s finance ministers and central bank governors will converge here to reflect on where we are, where we are headed, and what to do about it. Let me offer you a preview of what this conversation will look like.

    First, we will cherish the good news—and rightly so, because we haven’t had much of it lately. The big global inflation wave is in retreat. A combination of resolute monetary policy action, easing supply chain constraints, and moderating food and energy prices is guiding us back in the direction of price stability.

    And this has been done without tipping the global economy into recession and large-scale job losses—something we saw during the pandemic and after past inflation episodes, and which many feared we would see again. Both the US and euro area labor markets, to take two examples, are cooling in an orderly manner.

    This is a big achievement.

    Where did this resilience come from? Answer: from strong policy and institutional foundations built over time, and from international policy cooperation as countries learned to act fast and act together. We are benefiting from central bank independence in advanced economies and many emerging markets; years of prudential reforms in banking; progress made in building fiscal institutions; and capacity development worldwide.

    But, despite the good news, don’t expect any victory parties next week—for at least three reasons:

    • For one thing, inflation rates may be falling, but the higher price level that we feel in our wallets is here to stay. Families are hurting, people are angry. Advanced economies saw inflation rates at once-in-a-generation highs. So too did many emerging market economies. But look how bad the situation was for the low-income countries. At the country level and at the level of individuals, inflation always hits the poor the hardest.
    • Even worse, we are in a difficult geopolitical environment. We are all very worried about the expanding conflict in the Middle East and its potential to destabilize regional economies and global oil and gas markets. Its humanitarian impact, alongside the prolonged wars in Ukraine and elsewhere, is heartbreaking.
    • And on top of it all, this is happening at a time when our forecasts point to an unforgiving combination of low growth andhigh debt—a difficult future.

    Let’s take a closer look: medium-term growth is forecast to be lackluster—not sharply lower than pre-pandemic, but far from good enough. Not enough to eradicate world poverty. Nor to create the number of jobs we require. Nor to generate the tax revenues that governments need to service heavy debt loads while attending to vast investment needs, including the green transition.

    The picture is made more troubling by high and rising public debt—way higher than before the pandemic, even after the brief but significant fall in debt-to-GDP as inflation lifted nominal GDP. And do please notice the shaded area in the chart—what it shows is that, in a severe but plausible adverse scenario, debt could climb some 20 percentage points of GDP above our baseline.

    What does this mean for “fiscal space”? To answer this, let’s look at the share of government revenue consumed by interest payments. This is where high debt, high interest rates, and low growth come together—because it is growth that generates the revenues governments need to function and invest. As debt increases, fiscal space contracts disproportionately more in low-income countries—not all debt burdens are made the same.

    And fiscal space keeps shrinking. Just look at the frightening evolution of the interest-to-revenue ratio over time. We can immediately see how the tough spending choices have become tougher with higher debt payments. Schools or climate? Digital connectivity or roads and bridges? That is what it comes down to.

    To make matters worse, we live in deeply troubled times. The peace dividend from the end of the Cold War is increasingly at risk. In a world of more wars and more insecurity, defense expenditures may well keep rising while aid budgets fall further behind the growing needs of developing countries.

    Not only is development assistance too small, but major players, driven by national security concerns, are increasingly resorting to industrial policy and protectionism, creating one trade restriction after another. Going forward, trade will not be the same engine of growth as before. It is the fracturing I warned of back in 2019—but worse. It is like pouring cold water on an already-lukewarm world economy.

    My message today: we can do better.

    As Ajay Banga, President of the World Bank and my dear colleague from across the street, likes to say: forecasts are not destiny. There is plenty we can and must do to lift our growth potential, reduce debt, and build a more resilient world economy.

    Let me start with the domestic agenda. Governments must work to reduce debt and rebuild buffers for the next shock—which will surely come, and maybe sooner than we expect. Budgets need to be consolidated—credibly, yet gradually in most countries. This will involve difficult choices on how to raise revenues and make spending more efficient, while also making sure that policy actions are well-explained to earn the trust of the people.

    Here is the problem though: fiscal restraint is never popular. And, as a new paper by IMF staff shows, it’s only getting harder. Across a wide sample of countries, political discourse increasingly favors fiscal expansion. Even the traditionally fiscally conservative political parties are developing a taste for borrow-to-spend. Fiscal reforms are not easy, but they are necessary and they can enhance inclusion and opportunity. Countries have shown that it can be done.

    Ultimately, over the medium term, growth is key—to deliver jobs, tax revenues, fiscal space, and debt sustainability. Everywhere I go, I hear the same: an aspiration for higher growth and better opportunities. The question is: how?

    Answer: focus on reforms—there is no time to waste:

    • First area of reforms: make job markets work for people. We confront a world of deeply uneven demography: surging young populations in some places, aging societies elsewhere. Economic migration can help, but only up to a point given the anxieties in many countries. So too can supportive steps to help get more women into the workforce. Above all, there is a need for reforms to enhance skill sets and match the right people to the right jobs.
    • Second area: mobilize capital. There is an abundance of it globally, but often not in the right places or right types of investments—just think of all the money from all corners of the globe poured into liquid but less-productive assets in a few major financial centers. Putting savings to work for maximum economic benefit requires policymakers to focus on eliminating barriers such as weak investment environments and shallow capital markets. Financial sector oversight must not only ensure stability and resilience, but also encourage prudent risk-taking and value creation.
    • Third area: enhance productivity. This is what yields more output per unit of input, and there are many ways to raise it, from improving governance and institutions to cutting red tape to harnessing the power of AI. More and better spending on education and R&D help. Among advanced economies, those that lead on innovation show what works: venture capital industries, ecosystems that bring not only financing but knowledge, advice, and professional networks—screening new ideas, identifying winners, feeding them from birth to graduation. There are many lessons for others to learn.

    Globally, the pace of reforms has been slowing since the global financial crisis as discontent has risen.

    But progress is possible. A new IMF study shows that resistance to reforms is often driven by beliefs and misperceptions about the reforms themselves as well as the distributional effects. Reforms are best developed through two-way dialogue with the public, with measures to mitigate the impact on those who risk losing out. We have learnt how much this matters.

    As policymakers pursue reforms at home, they must also look outward.

    There is much that countries can do together as members of an integrated economic community, each benefitting from its own comparative advantage.

    The forces of technology, trade, and capital mobility have delivered a hugely valuable degree of interconnectedness.

    Yet still, we live in a mistrustful, fragmented world where national security has risen to the top of the list of concerns for many countries. This has happened before—but never in a time of such high economic co-dependence.

    My argument is that we must not allow this reality to become an excuse to do nothing to prevent a further fracturing of the global economy. Quite the opposite. My appeal during these Annual Meetings will be: let us work together, in an enlightened way, to lift our collective prospects.

    Let us not take the global tensions as given, but rather resolve to work to lower the geopolitical temperature and attend to the tasks that can only be tackled together:

    • Exhibit one: trade, which has lowered prices, improved quality, and created jobs. Thus far, trade has shown remarkable resilience in the face of new barriers, often flowing around them via third countries. But such redirection is not efficient, nor can we assume it will continue indefinitely. Countries would do well to recognize that the rules-based global trading system delivered many benefits and is worth preserving.
    • Two: climate, where we face an existential challenge, with countries that contributed the least to global emissions now first to suffer. Unexpectedly fast global warming should be ringing alarm bells. The glaciers are melting, the icecaps crumbling. Adverse weather events have telegraphed a frightening message from the future. We know what we must do: create fiscal space for the green transition, eliminate fossil-fuel subsidies, and get capital to where it is most needed. But we must do it!
    • Three: artificial intelligence, our single best shot at higher productivity. IMF research finds that AI, if managed well, has the potential to lift world growth by up to 0.8 percentage points—with that alone, we would go to a higher growth path than in the years before the pandemic. Yet AI is urgently in need of regulatory and ethical codes that are fundamentally global. Why? Because AI is borderless—it is already on smartphones everywhere. We better hurry. This technology will not wait!

    In all these areas and many more, the bottom line is that countries need to relearn how to work together. And institutions like the IMF—born from the basic idea that pooling resources together is efficient—play a vital role.

    In my first term as Managing Director—an unprecedented crisis period—we acted decisively to help our membership. We provided one trillion dollars’ worth of liquidity, and we delivered critical economic analysis and advice that helped policymakers synchronize their actions.

    Now, in the first days of my second term we have delivered again.

    Our Executive Board, in full consensus, has just approved important reforms that reinforce our strong financial position and directly benefit our membership. We are reducing charges and surcharges on our regular lending, and putting in place a comprehensive package that secures our concessional lending capacity to support low-income countries.

    And on November 1 our Board will welcome a third Director for Sub-Saharan Africa, ensuring more voice for what has been an underrepresented region.

    Combined with the fifty percent quota increase agreed at our last Annual Meetings, these actions give us the strength to continue to deliver high value-added to a membership that engages not out of charity but self-interest.

    It is the value we bring to our members that has resulted in our membership growing—and on that note, a very warm welcome to the Principality of Liechtenstein as it joins us as our 191st member!

    From our founding at Bretton Woods in the dark days of 1944 to today, the IMF has established a tradition of adapting to the changing world around it. Today, I give you my word: this will continue. We will stand with our members, always looking for the most impactful ways to serve.

    By the time I complete my second term at the helm of the IMF, I will have led it for most of this decade. And if I were granted one wish, it would simply be this: let not this decade be remembered as one where we allowed conflict to get in the way of existential tasks, storing up vast costs and potential calamity for those to follow. Let it be remembered as a time when we rose above our differences for the good of all.

    For our mutual prosperity—and ultimately for our survival—I say we can do better: let there be peace on earth and a revival of cooperation.

    Thank you!

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Mayada Ghazala

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    @IMFSpokesperson

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2024/10/17/sp101724-annual-meetings-2024-curtain-raiser

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement from Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas on the Independent Review Panel Report of the July 13, 2024 Assassination Attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Statement from Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas on the Independent Review Panel Report of the July 13, 2024 Assassination Attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania

    ASHINGTON – Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas issued the following statement on the Independent Review Panel report released today regarding the July 13, 2024 assassination attempt against former President Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania.

    “We are grateful to the members of the bipartisan Independent Review Panel and their staff for their in-depth examination of the security failures that led to the July 13, 2024 assassination attempt on the former President and the loss of life and casualties suffered.  The members of the Independent Review Panel are highly accomplished individuals with extensive security and law enforcement backgrounds, and the U.S. Secret Service’s protection mission will benefit greatly from their recommendations.

    “I have reviewed the Independent Review Panel’s report and have met with the Panel members. We will fully consider the Panel’s recommendations and are taking the actions needed to advance the Secret Service’s protection mission.  These actions will be responsive not only to the security failures that led to the July 13, 2024 assassination attempt, but, importantly, to what the Independent Review Panel describes as systemic and foundational issues that underlie those failures.  I commend Acting Director Rowe for his leadership and for proactively undertaking security enhancements, including those informed by the Secret Service’s internal Mission Assurance Review.

    “I have the utmost confidence in the men and women of the United States Secret Service.  We are operating in a heightened and dynamic threat environment, and it is their talent, unwavering dedication, and tireless service that ensures the safety and security of their protectees and our nation.”

    Following the events of July 13 President Joe Biden directed DHS to conduct an independent security review. On July 21, 2024 Secretary Mayorkas named a bipartisan panel with extensive law enforcement and security experience to conduct a 45-day independent review. The independent review panel of experts from outside of government was comprised of former DHS Secretary Janet Napolitano; the Hon. Mark Filip, a former federal judge and Deputy Attorney General to President George W. Bush; Ms. Frances Townsend, former Homeland Security Advisor to President George W. Bush; and Chief David Mitchell, the former superintendent of Maryland State Police and former Secretary of the Department of Public Safety and Homeland Security for the State of Delaware.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Future of Great British Railways

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

    Secretary of State for Transport outlines next steps for rail reform in Britain during the Derby rail skills event.

    Location:
    Derby Campus
    Delivered on:
    (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)

    Good morning everyone and let me start by thanking Derby City Council for organising this event.

    It’s wonderful to be back in Derby – the future home of Great British Railways (GBR).

    But in many ways, this has always been the industry’s home.

    A city of train building – 180 years and counting – from the Derby Works to Alstom today.

    A city of innovation – from the first steel rails to the iconic railway roundhouse.

    And a city of heritage – from railway cottages to the Brunswick Inn pub, which I’m glad to see is still going strong.

    But Derby has never rested on historic laurels.

    Instead, it has renewed and reformed. 

    That roundhouse is now Derby College, producing the engineers of tomorrow.

    The once rail technical centre is now part of Europe’s biggest rail cluster, with 11,000 jobs.

    And the works at Litchurch Lane, that once produced Victorian train carriages, now making trains for London’s Elizabeth Line.

    That’s why this event matters.

    Because today isn’t just about this city’s proud rail history, but about reinforcing Derby’s central role in shaping rail’s future.

    And about celebrating the brilliant businesses of all shapes and sizes that make up the rail industry.

    State of rail

    Derby’s zeal for renewal and reform is shared by this government.

    Because after years of dysfunction and decline – how our economy is managed, how public services are run, how government works, all must return to the service of working people, wherever they live.

    That is the work of national renewal the Prime Minister has promised.

    And it starts with our railways.

    On entering office, we were under no illusions as to the scale of the challenge.

    A railway mired in industrial action – costing the economy the equivalent of nearly £3 million pounds a day.

    And performance levels that were simply not good enough, with cancellations at a 10-year high.

    All visible problems, but with deep roots.

    Fragmentation, lack of accountability and conflicting interests.

    The very industry weaknesses Keith Williams identified years ago, still remain.

    The lack of political leadership on rail has left an industry more comfortable looking inwards, that fails to pull together when things go wrong, that has lost focus on improving each part of people’s experience with the railways – so passengers don’t get the journeys they deserve.

    We’ve seen this with delays to long promised upgrades to the East Coast Mainline, or the confusing array of fares and tickets passengers have to navigate. 

    And the great irony of privatisation is that the part of the industry that works best, that innovates and pushes boundaries – the dynamic supply chain – has been stifled. But these issues are systemic – not individual.

    Because when I speak to the supply chain and station staff, to engineers and signalers, they all want what’s best for the passenger.

    All are committed, enthusiastic and ready to work across organisational boundaries to deliver a better railway.

    But currently, they have neither the tools, incentives nor backing to do so.

    It’s why, as Passenger in Chief, when I said I would oversee the biggest overhaul of our railways in a generation, a big part of that will be a cultural reset.

    Where every part of the workforce feels empowered to challenge the orthodoxy of years past, supported by an entirely new and reformed organisation – Great British Railways.

    Where we value diverse skills, build new capabilities and forge high-quality careers that attract the next generation.

    And where everyone understands how they contribute to a railway unashamedly focused on delivering for passengers and taxpayers.

    It will not be British Rail Rebooted or Network Rail 2.0 – but we’ll usher in a new era for the railways where every part of the industry is motivated and incentivised to deliver for the passenger.

    That’s my personal mission.

    To join you in a determined effort to get our railways working again – for passengers, for its workforce and for communities across Britain.

    Because our railways are essential to getting Britain growing and moving again.

    Industrial action

    Within months, we’ve begun the essential work of change.

    We’ve ended the longest ever national strike on our railways.

    Gone are the political gimmicks of years past, which not only prolonged industrial action but caused misery for passengers and cost the railways £850 million pounds.

    Within days of taking office, I spoke to all rail unions and hit reset.

    I was clear that if talks were needed, we would sit round in good faith.

    If compromises could be made, we would all make them.

    And if a deal could be struck, we would fight for a fair agreement for workers, passengers and taxpayers.

    A new, grown-up, approach – which put passengers first and politics second. And clears the way for vital workforce reform, to modernise our railways and do away with outdated working practices.

    Public Ownership Bill

    I’ve also fired the starting gun on rail reform.

    The Public Ownership Bill has passed the Commons and now awaits committee stage scrutiny in the Lords.

    It calls time on a broken model, one that repeatedly failed passengers and one that cost tens of millions of pounds in fees each year.

    It allows us to bring passenger services into public hands as contracts expire over the next 3 years.

    But I know passengers won’t wait that long for things to improve.

    They rightly deserve better than the status quo.

    So we will continue building capacity and expertise in the public sector, as it takes on additional services.

    And in the meantime, I won’t hesitate to take decisive action if operators don’t meet their obligations.

    It’s a message I’ve already delivered loud and clear to the Managing Directors of Avanti West Coast and Cross Country. And indeed, we have set new and clear expectations to those train operating companies already in public ownership.

    Reform

    Now, public ownership and resolving national strikes are just stops on the journey to reform, not the terminus.

    The Railways Bill, which we will introduce later this parliamentary session, will get the industry back on track.

    We’ll establish Great British Railways – a directing mind running the railways as one system, with a relentless focus on passengers.

    We’ll stop the blame game, by unifying track and train.

    We’ll grip the finances, led by passenger need and taxpayer value.

    And we’ll grow freight, unlocking new green growth.

    Delivering GBR in full will be the work of years, not months. It is the biggest reform agenda of this government.

    But again, we cannot afford to wait.

    Shadow GBR

    So I’ve taken decisive action to bring the industry together under Shadow Great British Railways and its new Chair Laura Shoaf.

    Laura brings a wealth of experience.

    And I’ve asked her specifically to lay the foundations of culture change the industry needs.

    That, of course, means getting the basics right with performance, but it also means encouraging innovation at every opportunity.

    So, under her leadership, the heads of Network Rail, DOHL, and DfT’s rail services group – the people in charge of track and train – will work closer than ever before to set the tone of reform and deliver immediate improvements. 

    On performance: nowhere near good enough across the board, but not helped by the labyrinth of different contracts, measures and incentives at play.

    Different targets lead to competing priorities.

    And operational decisions that make sense in one part of the industry, can lead to worse outcomes overall – with passengers inevitably bearing the brunt.

    So, I will soon set out new performance measures, ensuring a more consistent and transparent approach.

    We’ll end the boom-and-bust approach to investment projects.

    Replacing it with a long term strategy for rolling stock – essential for the industry here in Derby.

    After years of government uncertainty and mixed messages, this will give the supply chain the certainty it needs to plan and invest.

    And finally, we’re reviewing fares and ticketing. Not just to unblock barriers to reform, but to urgently get passengers back on board with new exciting campaigns.

    That starts early next year, with a new ‘rail sale’ to coincide with the 200-year anniversary of the first passenger service.

    It will offer up to half price Advance and Off-peak fares – to get Britain moving, to connect our communities and to give back to passengers, who for too long have paid more and more for less and less.

    These first steps are important, as we start restoring some national pride to this industry and building the railway of tomorrow.

    Conclusion

    I began by talking about Derby, and it’s also a good place to end.

    We are standing in the biggest concentration of rail innovation and expertise in Europe.

    Around 600 rail companies, employing 45,000 people, have chosen to co-locate in the East Midlands.

    And it’s easy to see why.

    We have Derby University’s Rail Research Innovation Centre, Network Rail’s testing facility at Tuxford, Alstom’s world leading manufacturing facility and maintenance hubs for Sperry Rail and Railcare.

    All will soon be joined by GBR, providing the leadership this industry has sorely needed.

    Working in partnership – government and industry – to build a renewed and reformed railway, fit for the future, fit for Britain.

    A new era for our railways and a new era for Derby.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Celebrating the ceremonial opening of Ne’ata’q Place, a shelter for Indigenous women and children in Newfoundland

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    News release

    October 17, 2024 — Stephenville, Newfoundland & Labrador — Indigenous Services Canada and Newfoundland Aboriginal Women’s Network

    Today marked the ceremonial opening of Ne’ata’q Place, a shelter for Indigenous women and children in Newfoundland. An initiative of the Newfoundland Aboriginal Women’s Network Inc. (NAWN), the shelter will provide a safe, supportive community for Indigenous women and children affected by family violence.

    Celebrating the opening of Ne’ata’q Place were the Director of Ne’ata’q House, Michelle Skinner; Minister Hutchings on behalf of Minister Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services; community members; and representatives from Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), Indigenous Services Canada (ISC).

    Ne’ata’q in Mi’kmaq means the sun is coming out. The shelter will provide transitional housing and supportive services, including mental health counselling, life skills development, Indigenous cultural supports, and system navigation. The services will be provided in a welcoming, homelike environment, and the work will be rooted in traditional Mi’kmaw values and traditions, emphasizing culturally competent trauma-informed care.

    Providing longer-term stays than crisis shelters, occupancy is available for up to six months. The shelter will include six light and airy rooms with self-contained kitchenettes. Two of the units, one single and one double, are fully accessible.

    Funding for Ne’ata’q Place is jointly supported by Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, Indigenous Services Canada, and the Town of Stephenville.

    Ne’ata’q Place is scheduled to open its doors in November 2024.

    Quotes

    “Together, hand in hand with our dedicated partners, we have built more than a house; we have built a bridge from adversity to strength, from uncertainty to hope.” 

    Dr. Elder Odelle Pike
    President Newfoundland Aboriginal Women’s Network

    “We are supporting the safety and well-being of Indigenous women and children affected by family violence. Ne’ata’q Place will provide a safe haven devoted to culturally appropriate and trauma-informed care. We congratulate and celebrate the Newfoundland Aboriginal Women’s Network in their work to provide a good way forward.”

    The Honourable Patty Hajdu
    Minister of Indigenous Services

    “Everyone deserves a safe and affordable place to call home. Thanks to today’s investment, we are providing new affordable housing units for Indigenous Peoples and women and children fleeing domestic violence right here in Stephenville. This is one of the many ways our National Housing Strategy continues to ensure no one is left behind.” 

    The Honourable Gudie Hutchings
    Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, Minister of Rural Economic Development, Member of Parliament for Long Range Mountains 

    Quick facts

    • The Newfoundland Aboriginal Women’s Network Inc. (NAWN) is a non-profit organization that strives to promote, enhance, and encourage the health, social, educational, cultural and political well-being of the Aboriginal women within the Island portion of the province of Newfoundland.

    • Project funding includes:

      • $3,644,700 from the federal government through the National Housing Strategy’s Indigenous Shelter and Transitional Housing Initiative.
      • $40,000 from the federal government through Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s SEED funding.
      • Ongoing operational funding from Indigenous Services Canada.
      • $150,000 in land equity from the Town of Stephenville.

    Associated links

    Contacts

    For more information, media may contact:

    Jennifer Kozelj
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Honourable Patty Hajdu
    Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor
    jennifer.kozelj@sac-isc.gc.ca

    ISC Media Relations
    819-953-1160
    media@sac-isc.gc.ca

    Michelle Skinner
    Director of Ne’ata’q House 
    709-721-0474
    director@nqplace.com

    Stay connected

    Join the conversation about Indigenous Peoples in Canada:

    X: @GCIndigenous
    Facebook: @GCIndigenous
    Instagram: @gcindigenous

    Facebook: @GCIndigenousHealth

    You can subscribe to receive our news releases and speeches via RSS feeds. For more information or to subscribe, visit http://www.isc.gc.ca/RSS.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Marat Khusnullin took part in the All-Russian Congress of Road Workers

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    Marat Khusnullin took part in the All-Russian Congress of Road Workers

    Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin took part in a panel discussion of the All-Russian Congress of Road Workers at the XI International Specialized Exhibition “Road-2024”. In particular, preliminary results of the implementation of the national project “Safe High-Quality Roads” were summed up.

    “In recent years, an effectively functioning, unified project team for the road industry of the entire country has been formed. Thanks to the support of the President, the Chairman of the Government, as well as the coordinated work of the Ministry of Transport, the Ministry of Finance, Rosavtodor, and regional teams, we have managed to achieve great success, including in the implementation of the national project “Safe High-Quality Roads”. As a result, comfortable conditions for study and work, for rest and raising children have been created. Positive changes have not gone unnoticed by residents of the regions. The national project is one of the most recognizable among the population. Over six years of work on “BKD”, we have been able to repair, reconstruct and build more than 100 thousand km of roads in 84 regions, and lay 800 million square meters of top layers of pavement. Now we are finishing the current road national project, the continuation of which in the future will be a new one – “Infrastructure for Life”. There is still a lot of work to be done, but with a well-coordinated team, I am sure that all targets will be met, and some of them will exceed the planned values,” said Marat Khusnullin.

    The Deputy Prime Minister thanked his colleagues for the work done in terms of developing the road transport industry and noted large-scale plans for the future. On the instructions of the President, by 2030 it is planned to build at least 50 bypasses of populated areas. Active development of the transport route “Russia”, international transport corridors “North – South”, “West – East” will also continue. Local measures to eliminate bottlenecks in the federal network, development of roads of the Azov-Black Sea cluster will also continue.

    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/53030/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: British Caribbean Minister meets Prime Minister Philip Davis KC in The Bahamas as the two countries strengthen trade ties

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Baroness Chapman signs new trade deals between the UK and The Bahamas

    • Baroness Chapman to visit The Bahamas as part of her first visit to the Western Caribbean
    • Minister meeting with Prime Minister Philip Davis KC to formally sign series of UK-Bahamas trade deals
    • UK-Bahamas trade relationship worth $5bn per year

    The UK Minister for the Caribbean, Baroness Chapman is in The Bahamas today.

    While in Nassau, the Minister met Prime Minister Philip Davis KC to discuss formally our bilateral partnership, and our shared priority of growing our economies, empowering our young people, and fighting the climate and nature crises.

    The Minister and Prime Minister announced a series of new trade deals between the UK and The Bahamas, that will see UK businesses including Manchester Airport Group and Amey PLC awarded contracts for work to operator Freeport Airport, and rebuild Glass Window Bridge.  

    In a demonstration of the growing UK-Bahamas trade relationship, Baroness Chapman was also able to announce that Amey PLC, the firm behind construction of the M1 and the rebuilding of Liverpool Lime Street, will be making Nassau the home of its first ever office in the Americas.

    The firm will hire and train Bahamian engineers and project managers, and connect Bahamian companies with British expertise to win contracts across the Caribbean and USA. 

    The current trade relationship between the UK and The Bahamas amounts to $5bn a year, making the UK one of The Bahamas’ most significant trade partners.

    UK Caribbean Minister, Baroness Chapman said:

    The UK-Bahamas relationship is going from strength to strength.  

    The deals I am announcing alongside the Right Honourable Philip Davis here this week will see British businesses deliver essential infrastructure projects for The Bahamas, and invest directly in The Bahamas.

    They are a further illustration of our growing partnership, as we continue work to deliver growth and prosperity for the people of both our nations.

    I look forward to continuing to deepen our ties from trade to climate during my time in The Bahamas.

    During her visit, Baroness Chapman also met Minister of Education and Technical and Vocational Training, Glenys Hanna-Martin, where she formally handed over 10,000 pages of historic documents pertaining to Bahamian Independence, that have been stored in the National Archives in the UK.  

    The documents have also been digitised and will be made available by The Bahamas’ National Archive, which will increase access and public understanding of the process undertaken to achieve independence by students both in The Bahamas and the UK.  

    Following a visit to a coral reef to see the work local NGOs are doing to preserve an important ecological area, the Minister toured the University of The Bahamas, where she took part in a roundtable alongside environmental science students, academics and NGOs focused on the impact of climate change on The Bahamas.

    Finally, the Minister visited the Forensics department of The Royal Bahamas Police Force and met two senior female officers who were recipients of the UK Chevening scholarship, and who received formal UK forensics training.

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

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

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Transition Finance Market Review launch

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Keynote speech by Minister for Industry at the launch event for the Transition Finance Market Review.

    Location:
    Guildhall, London
    Delivered on:
    (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)

    Thank you Councillor for your warm welcome and for your work as part of this review.  

    This is my second time this week in the Guildhall. We had the big Investment Summit here on Monday. It’s always very special to come to the Guildhall. 

    For 2,000 years this site has been a hub of development, business and finance, so it’s apt that we meet here today to discuss more modern means of generating profitable, sustainable growth in the UK.  

     I want to start by congratulating Vanessa and the team and everyone who has taken part in the Transition Finance Market Review and for publishing your comprehensive report and to City of London Corporation for hosting this event.  

    This is a really important review, which will influence how we think about financing the clean energy transition in the UK and around the world.  

    Our twin  goals of clean power by 2030 and accelerating to net zero in 2050 are ambitious… 

    …but, as the men and women who stood in this Guildhall over the centuries knew, with any period of growth comes huge opportunity. 

    Which is why we need to deploy all the tools at our disposal – from innovative new technology at scale, to novel and creative financial packages that mirror that ambition.  

    Clean energy is at the heart of this government’s agenda.  

    We believe that clean energy is the economic and industrial opportunity of the 21st century.  

    Mobilising public and private finance will be critical to achieving our clean energy mission and international climate goals.  

    The government is working quickly to remove the barriers and deploy legislative actions to accelerate the work.  

    Take the de-facto onshore wind ban.  

    Removed within 72 hours of being in office… 

    Now we must support industry on how to break ground on multiple new projects.    

    It’s why we are introducing a Planning and Infrastructure Bill to speed up and streamline the planning process.  

    And we will also be updating the relevant National Policy Statements within the next 12 months to provide certainty to the industry. 

    By stimulating the market and crowding-in investment via Great British Energy, we stand to rapidly grow supply chains across the country, creating the well-paid and meaningful jobs our communities crave. 

    But this all points back to finance. 

    How do we approach the question of scaling up the investment we need?  

    First, our ambition is to make the UK the green finance capital of the world.  

    This will mobilise Britain’s world-leading financial centre to unlock the trillions of pounds of investment needed for the global energy transition.   

    A strong sustainable finance policy framework is critical to driving investment into the sectors that are crucial to meet our carbon budgets.  

    It also provides a huge economic growth opportunity for the financial services sector.  

    Second, there must be a genuine partnership between government and the private sector.

    In the UK we need hundreds of billions of pounds of investment to make this transition happen.  

    Our role is to set a clear and certain direction of travel, with a plan that businesses and investors understand. 

    And third, we remain committed to being a strong advocate for climate finance to ensure developing countries across the world have the finance they need.   

    COP29 needs to deliver an ambitious new climate finance goal that meets the needs and priorities of developing countries.  

    This will be vital to accelerating investment in mitigation and adaptation and will play an important role in securing ambitious NDCs ahead of COP30 next year.  

    But we know that this won’t be as easy as flicking a switch for high emitting sectors.  

    Transition finance for hard-to-abate sectors will play a key role, particularly when it comes to challenges such as industrial decarbonisation.  

    I know there are complex challenges to overcome in scaling up the transition finance market. 

    These include minimising the risks of greenwashing and ensuring investors are equipped with the right information on investment needs for our sectors.  

    But there are huge opportunities too.  

    So, what is changing? 

    The Transition Finance Market Review has developed a comprehensive set of policy recommendations for how government can do more to accelerate the growth and ensure the credibility of our transition finance market.  

    The Review has called for more clarity on decarbonisation pathways for key sectors and ways of mobilising private investment to achieve these. 

    We will strive to deliver this clarity through existing and new policy, including our Industrial Strategy launched on Monday setting out the steps we are taking to deliver long-term growth while harnessing the opportunities of net zero. 

    Clean Energy Industries are one of eight growth-driving sectors identified in the Industrial Strategy green paper this week. This is alongside Advanced Manufacturing, Creative Industries, Defence, Digital and Technologies, Financial Services, Life Sciences, and Professional and Business Services.  

    We are now keen to hear your thoughts on how we identify the most promising sub-sectors within clean energy industries – including the most innovative emerging technologies. 

    More over, our green paper makes clear the UK is committed to sustaining growth – growth that is aligned with our Net Zero and environmental objectives. 

    We also announced a National Wealth Fund capitalised with £27.8 billion to invest in the new industries of the future and mobilise billions more in private investment and generating a return for taxpayers.  

    The National Wealth Fund will build on the leadership of the UK Infrastructure Bank but go further – including in ways recommended by the Transition Finance Market Review.  

    And just one example, the National Wealth Fund will be empowered to make investments that maximise the mobilisation of private investment, including an expanded suite of financial instruments such as performance guarantees and trialling new blended finance solutions, with government departments, taking on additional risk to facilitate higher impact in individual deals. 

    It will inherit UKIB’s existing £22 billion capitalisation and have an additional £5.8 billion, which will be committed over this Parliament. 

    In addition, we are driving forward several green finance priorities mentioned in the Review. 

    We are developing our approach to mandate UK registered financial institutions and large companies to implement credible transition plans. 

    we will ensure we move from ambition into coherent strategies to realise the opportunities of the net zero economy… 

    …and I want to extend my thanks to the Transition Plan Taskforce for their work to pioneer global best practice in this space. 

    We will also continue to advance our plans for a UK Green Taxonomy in line with our commitment in Financing Growth.  

    We want to ensure any framework is science-based, interoperable with international standards, and user-friendly for business and intend to provide more detail on our plans in this area soon.  

    Finally, we are advancing plans to ‘endorse’ international climate-related reporting standards issued by the International Sustainability Standards for use in the UK. 

    Our government will be studying the recommendations in the report very carefully and will be making further announcements on their implementation soon.  

    Clean power by 2030 is ambitious. But when you look around the world, you see that we have no time to waste.  

    Climactic events are worsening. All the industrialised nations around the world have a responsibility to step-up and redress this imbalance, using whatever resources necessary.  

    Domestically, we know that the advance of the green sector is intrinsically linked to the economy, and it is our core mission to deliver meaningful, well-paid jobs fuelled by renewable growth.   

    And it’s the reason we’re going all-out for clean power.  

    All of this hinges on mobilising green finance today, so that decades from now, people will remember this period as our green industrial revolution, delivering prosperity, skills and clean energy for millions of people.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Spelthorne Borough Council: Assistant Best Value Inspector appointment letters

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Letters appointing Assistant Best Value Inspectors in relation to Spelthorne Borough Council.

    Applies to England

    Documents

    Spelthorne Borough Council: Assistant Inspector appointment letter (Deborah McLaughlin)

    PDF, 161 KB, 1 page

    Spelthorne Borough Council: Assistant Inspector appointment letter (Mervyn Greer)

    PDF, 167 KB, 1 page

    Spelthorne Borough Council: Assistant Inspector appointment letter (Peter Robinson)

    PDF, 162 KB, 1 page

    Details

    Copies of the letters from Max Soule, Deputy Director Local Government Stewardship and Interventions at the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government to Deborah McLaughlin, Mervyn Greer and Peter Robinson, detailing the decision by ministers to appoint them as Assistant Inspectors in relation to Spelthorne Borough Council under section 10 of the Local Government Act 1999.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 October 2024

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    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Visit By the Indian Enquiry Committee to the United States of America

    Source: United States Department of State (4)

    Office of the Spokesperson

    An Indian Enquiry Committee that was established to investigate activities of certain organized criminals is actively investigating the individual who was identified last year in the Department of Justice’s indictment as an Indian government employee who directed a foiled plot to assassinate a U.S. citizen in New York City. The Enquiry Committee will be traveling to Washington, D.C. on October 15th, as part of their ongoing investigations to discuss the case, including information they have obtained, and to receive an update from U.S. authorities regarding the U.S. case that is proceeding. Additionally, India has informed the United States they are continuing their efforts to investigate other linkages of the former government employee and will determine follow up steps, as necessary.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kamlager-Dove Secures $1 Million to Fund Construction of SoLa Impact’s New Tech & Entertainment Center in Crenshaw and Leimert Park

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager California (37th District)

    LOS ANGELES, CA – Today, Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37) announced that she secured a $1 million grant for SoLa Impact’s affiliated nonprofit, the SoLa Foundation, in support of the completion of SoLa’s second state-of-the-art youth center. The SoLa Foundation is one of fifteen organizations that Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove secured a total of $12.4 million for through Fiscal Year 2024 government funding legislation.

    Opening in the first half of 2025, the 10,000 sq ft Art, Tech and Entertainment Center will be located on the ground floor of “Crenshaw Lofts,” SoLa Impact’s 195-unit workforce and affordable housing development in the LAX-Crenshaw Corridor. The center will train and mentor young people to become the next generation of professionals and entrepreneurs in arts, media, entertainment, emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence, and the live events industry. The facility will feature a collaborative workspace, professional recording studio, and indoor/outdoor event space. It will serve at least 1,000 youth and young adults annually. A video preview of the center is available here.

    The funds are part of Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove’s commitments to the continued revitalization of the Crenshaw and Leimert Park communities as well as increasing access to career training and jobs in entertainment.

    “Crenshaw—the heart of Black LA—has seen many resurgence efforts since the 1992 Riots, many of them short-lived,” said Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove. “By connecting young Angelenos with workforce training in arts, entertainment, and technology careers, SoLa’s new youth center will make a real, lasting impact on South LA for generations to come. I was proud to secure funding for this center, and I look forward to seeing the vital role it will play in empowering future creators, entrepreneurs, and innovators from the storied community of Crenshaw.”

    SoLa Impact CEO, Martin Muoto, added, “With our second SoLa Tech Center powered by Live Nation, and Crenshaw Lofts, we are proud to be part of Crenshaw revitalization.  As we develop hundreds of affordable and workforce housing units across Los Angeles, we also want to ensure that the young people in communities like Crenshaw and South LA see a brighter future. Training them for jobs of the future is perhaps the most important way we can build California better.”

    “This center will have a transformative impact on the lives of our youth. This is my community and I am on a mission to ensure every young person has a shot at a brighter future. The center is about closing the racial digital divide in South LA. It’s about creating a more equitable playing field. It’s about creating access and pipelines to careers in the arts and technology. Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove shares this urgent mission and we are deeply grateful to her for being a catalyst in making our tech center possible,” said Sherri Francois, Chief Impact Officer of SoLa Impact and Executive Director of the SoLa Foundation.

    Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove tours the site of SoLa’s new youth tech and entertainment center in Crenshaw, which is currently under construction.

    ABOUT SOLA IMPACT’S FOUNDATION:

    The SoLa Foundation, a 501(c)3 nonprofit affiliate of SoLa Impact, aims to improve the lives of South LA residents and break the cycle of intergenerational poverty by providing opportunities for education and economic mobility. SoLa’s Technology and Entrepreneurship Center Powered by Riot Games is a state-of-the-art, first-of-its-kind center at the heart of South Central Los Angeles. SoLa provides the community with skills-based technology programming, as well as scholarships and career development opportunities for underinvested communities to ensure Black and brown Angelenos get increased access to jobs, mentorship, and placement in the most competitive fields of business. Learn more at www.thesolafoundation.org.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. Department of State Hosts Quad Fellows in Washington, D.C.

    Source: United States Department of State (4)

    Office of the Spokesperson

    The U.S. Department of State hosted 50 promising young scholars from Australia, India, Japan, the United States, and Southeast Asia at the second Quad Fellowship Summit in Washington, D.C. on October 7. Launched in 2021, the Quad Fellowship welcomed its second cohort of fellows, and this is the first year it includes scholars from Southeast Asia. Quad Fellows receive a stipend to pursue graduate degrees in STEM fields at U.S. universities.

    The Fellowship, which is administered by the Institute for International Education, is part of a broader Quad commitment to harness emerging technologies for the benefit of people across the Indo-Pacific, and utilize these technologies to facilitate economic prosperity, openness, and connectivity.

    Quad Fellows met with private sector and U.S. government representatives to discuss scientific and technological developments in the Indo-Pacific. Quad Fellows also engaged with science and technology specialists working in the U.S. government to explore leveraging STEM research to deliver tangible benefits to the Indo Pacific region. For press inquiries, please contact the Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs at EAP-Press@state.gov and the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs at SCA-Press@state.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Donald Trump’s attack on overseas voters is erroneous and dangerous

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Jennifer Saul, Chair in Social and Political Philosophy of Language, University of Waterloo

    I do research on racist and xenophobic speech. I am also an American citizen, and have voted from overseas since 1996 (first in the U.K., and now in Canada).

    This makes me especially well-placed to explain why Donald Trump’s Truth Social post about overseas voters in late September and Republican efforts to undermine those voters are factually wrong and politically dangerous.

    The current law giving Americans overseas the right to vote in federal elections is the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act, which was signed into law by Ronald Reagan, a Republican president.

    The federal program to help American citizens vote while living overseas is overseen by the Department of Defense — which makes sense, given that a large number of them are members of the United States military. All of this should give pause to anyone who thinks that allowing overseas citizens to vote is some sort of left-wing conspiracy.

    Complex process

    Nor is it an easy matter to vote from overseas. Every state has its own process for verifying citizenship after the registration and request form reaches them, and each has its own rules that voters must follow in order for their ballot to be counted.

    My own state, New Jersey, is relatively simple: I can email my registration/request form, get my ballot by e-mail, and email it back. But I must also remember to mail in the paper version of my ballot or my vote won’t count.

    This is easy enough for me, from Canada or previously the U.K. But it’s much more difficult for American citizens living in places that lack reliable postal services who often have to use expensive courier services to carry out their duty as citizens.

    My husband’s state is New York. He is allowed to e-mail his ballot request, but he must also mail a paper version of the request. And the ballot itself comes with an elaborate set of envelope templates that require precise folding — and must arrive by a strict deadline, no matter where they’re being mailed from.

    He’s a former graphic designer, and comfortable performing this task. But imagine trying to do so while suffering from arthritis or vision problems — especially when the home-printed version has tiny text. In short, there is nothing easy about voting from abroad.

    So why use inflammatory language to pretend it’s an easy matter to generate many thousands of fraudulent overseas votes? One explanation would be to sow doubt about the election results. Anything that can introduce uncertainty and slow down the counting process can be exploited in an effort that could allow Trump and his allies to falsely declare him the winner on Nov. 5.

    Trump’s campaign has made no secret about its plan to follow this path.

    Language that suggests American citizens abroad are not really American also fits into a larger pattern of stoking divisions — and of drawing ever tighter boundaries around who would be counted as “real” Americans. This is a classic fascist power move, one that leads to a sharply defined “us,” who are worthy of moral consideration, as opposed to “them,” who are not.

    Disenfranchising citizens abroad

    Importantly, the movement against overseas voters is not just confined to a social media post. There are lawsuits in several states designed to disenfranchise American citizens abroad. These are citizens who may have gone to enormous lengths to carry out their duties by asking for and sending in election ballots, often at substantial personal expense and faced with substantial barriers.

    Trump and his allies are working hard to prevent Americans abroad from exercising their most basic rights of citizenship. When Trump uses language that accuses overseas voters of fraud and foreign interference, it suggests we’re not really Americans.

    There’s a major problem in doing so. As mentioned, a large segment of American citizens abroad are members of the U.S. armed forces. Efforts to disenfranchise Americans abroad are also efforts to disenfranchise the military.

    ‘Figleaf’ language

    That’s why Trump’s allegation on Truth Social that Democrats “want to dilute the TRUE vote of our beautiful military” makes no sense. This is especially true given it’s coming from someone who’s attacking the very law that allows members of the military to vote from abroad, including casting ballots for him if they’re so inclined.

    This is what I call a figleaf — an additional bit of speech that provides just a bit of cover for saying something else that is much less acceptable. The allegation suggests, to someone who doesn’t understand overseas voting, that Trump somehow supports the military.

    Trump’s “diluting the vote” rhetoric also plays into the deeply racist Great Replacement Theory. This theory holds that Democrats and other shadowy forces (often cast as Jewish) are plotting to replace white Americans with foreigners, in part as a way to secure electoral victory.

    Overseas voting might seem like a niche issue. But overseas citizens could make all the difference in a close election. The attack on overseas voting is part of a much larger pattern of destructive suggestions from Trump about who is and is not a real American.

    I am a member of the Democratic Party

    – ref. Donald Trump’s attack on overseas voters is erroneous and dangerous – https://theconversation.com/donald-trumps-attack-on-overseas-voters-is-erroneous-and-dangerous-241332

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Manitoba Government Supports Growth of Local Companies

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    October 16, 2024

    Manitoba Government Supports Growth of Local Companies

    – – –
    Innovation Funding Will Create Good Manitoba Jobs: Moses

    The Manitoba government is funding 12 local companies through the Innovation Growth Program (IGP) to support product innovation, advancement and business growth, Economic Development, Investment, Trade and Natural Resources Minister Jamie Moses announced today.

    “Manitoba has many small- and medium-sized businesses doing great things, and I’m pleased our government can provide support to make more innovation happen,” said Moses. “This support has a ripple effect for our economy – business expansion and innovation will provide more good jobs for Manitobans and contribute to growing our economy.”

    The IGP provides cost-shared grants of up to $100,000 to eligible Manitoba small- and medium-sized enterprises to assist with the commercialization of innovative products or processes and accelerate growth.

    “I am incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received through the Innovation Growth Program and for the opportunities this unlocks for our company,” said Johanna Wood, president and CEO, Spark E Safety. “This funding will enable us to expand our operations, accelerate the development of innovative, well-fitting safety garments and create much-needed jobs in our community. With this boost, we’re one step closer to ensuring that every worker has access to protective gear that truly fits and keeps them safe.”

    Collectively, these companies expect to add 426 new full-time jobs to Manitoba and $291.2 million in export sales within five years, contributing to the government’s commitment to grow the economy with good Manitoba jobs for Manitobans, the minister noted.

    IGP uses a competitive application process. The current intake for the Innovation Growth Program is open until Dec. 15. For more information, visit: https://gov.mb.ca/jec/busdev/financial/igp/index.html.

    – 30 –

     

    BACKGROUND INFORMATION ATTACHED

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister Ien announces funding for NPower Canada to support skills training for young people

    Source: Government of Canada News

    News release

    October 16, 2024              Toronto, Ontario              Employment and Social Development Canada 

    Canadian youth are one of the country’s greatest strengths and sources of potential, and the Government of Canada is supporting young people at every stage of their journey toward a prosperous future. Every young person deserves a good job, but we know that many youth face barriers to employment. Creating opportunities for young people to gain the skills and experience they need for a fair chance at financial success is key to strengthening our economy, building a more inclusive country, and ensuring that no one is left behind.

    Today, the Honourable Marci Ien, Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth, announced up to $4 million in funding to NPower Canada for their NPowering Underrepresented Youth to Overcome Barriers to Employment project. Funding is being provided through Employment and Social Development Canada’s (ESDC’s) Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS) Program.

    NPower Canada creates pathways to economic prosperity for Canada’s underserved youth and adults by launching them into meaningful and sustainable digital careers. Their project will empower participants to overcome socio-economic challenges and transition to the labor force or return to education.

    In total, the YESS Program is expected to fund more than 200 new projects worth approximately $370 million between now and 2028 to improve labour market outcomes for 22,000 youth. These projects will provide flexible employment services and holistic supports tailored to each participant to help young people gain transferable skills with a lasting positive impact on their careers. This approach has already demonstrated success, with over 80% of participants from June 2019 to December 2022 either employed or returning to school following their participation in YESS programming.

    The Government of Canada recognizes the vital role governments can play in making sure young people succeed. That is why, as announced in Budget 2024, the Government is helping to restore fairness for every generation by unlocking access to post-secondary education, investing in the skills of the future, and creating opportunities for younger Canadians to get good jobs.

    Quotes

    “Youth want to succeed—not just for themselves, but for their families and communities. We’re making sure they get the chance by giving them access to the skills and experience needed to step confidently into the workforce. NPower Canada is doing just that—creating pathways into tech that are rooted in inclusivity and equality. It’s a great example of what happens when community organizations and federal support come together to create real opportunities for all youth, especially those who’ve been left out, to land a good job and build a meaningful career.”
    – The Honourable Marci Ien, Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth 

    “At NPower Canada, we believe every young person deserves the opportunity to succeed in a meaningful career. Over the past decade, we have empowered thousands of young people and partnered with employers of all sizes to help bridge Canada’s skills gap. This funding, as part of the YESS program, will enable us to provide in-demand digital and professional skills training, comprehensive wraparound supports, and job connections to over 1,100 youth across six provinces. Our participants come from diverse backgrounds including women, 2SLGBTQI+ individuals, racialized communities, Indigenous peoples, newcomers to Canada, and those with disabilities. Despite their varied experiences, they share a common ambition to build successful careers. Together, we are fostering a more inclusive future where everyone – regardless of their background – can unlock their potential and meaningfully contribute to the economy.”
    – Julia Blackburn, CEO, NPower Canada

    Quick facts

    • ESDC’s YESS Program was designed to give all youth an equal opportunity to find meaningful work. New to this funding cycle is the Youth with Disabilities Stream. Over 30% of funded projects are expected to address the unique employment challenges faced by youth with disabilities, surpassing the original target of 20%.

    • Other priority groups include Indigenous youth, 2SLGBTQI+ youth, Black and racialized youth, and youth in official language minority communities.

      • ESDC’s YESS Program is part of the Government of Canada’s broader Youth Employment and Skills Strategy, a horizontal initiative championed by 12 federal departments, agencies and Crown corporations. Together, these 12 partners deliver funding programs to help Canadian youth (aged 15 to 30) develop the skills and gain the experience they need to successfully transition into the labour market. 

    • To help younger Canadians pursue and achieve their dreams, the Government is investing to create more job opportunities and ensure that hard work pays off for the next generation. To create 90,000 youth job placements and employment support opportunities per year, Budget 2024 proposes to provide $351.2 million for the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy in the 2025 to 2026 fiscal year. These investments in youth job opportunities include:

      • $150.7 million across the federal partners under the YESS to provide job placements and employment supports to youth; and
      • $200.5 million for Canada Summer Jobs delivered by ESDC to provide well-paying summer job opportunities, including jobs in sectors facing critical labour shortages, such as housing construction.

    Associated links

    Contacts

    For media enquiries, please contact:

    Hannaan Hassan
    Senior Advisor, Communications
    Office of the Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth
    Hannaan.hassan@fegc-wage.gc.ca

    Media Relations Office
    Employment and Social Development Canada
    819-994-5559
    media@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca
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    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: The Government of Canada has supported Grande-Rivière’s athletics track

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    CED has granted over $550,000 to the Ville de Grande-Rivière for its project to build an outdoor athletics track.

    CED has granted over $550,000 to the Ville de Grande-Rivière for its project to build an outdoor athletics track.

    Grande-Rivière, Quebec, October 16, 2024 – Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED)

    Shared public spaces such as sports facilities are at the heart of communities. They are important hubs for residents and visitors and contribute to dynamic regions. The pandemic led to a rethinking of how public spaces are organized, and the Government of Canada has a strategic vision to create living environments where everyone can thrive.

    Today, the Honourable Diane Lebouthillier, Member of Parliament for Gaspésie‒Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine and Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, took the opportunity while attending the opening of the athletics track to announce, on behalf of the Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for CED, a non‑repayable contribution of $551,163 for the municipality’s project through the Canada Community Revitalization Fund (CCRF). This support has enabled the Ville de Grande-Rivière to prepare the site and install an athletics track and lighting system.

    The Government of Canada recognizes that community spaces promote social interaction and physical activity. Providing better access to recreational programs and facilities contributes to the well-being of communities, families and individuals across the country. The economic recovery is closely linked to the vitality of local communities and their shared spaces.

    Quotes

    “CED’s support for the athletics track project in Grande-Rivière is a testament to the Government of Canada’s commitment to boost economic development in communities. This wonderful project will dynamize the community by providing sports infrastructure that is accessible to residents in the five municipalities in the MRC du Rocher-Percé. I am confident that citizens and visitors will make it their own and that their quality of life will thus improve. Congratulations on this exciting project in the development of our beautiful region!”

    The Honourable Diane Lebouthillier, Member of Parliament for Gaspésie‒Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine and Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard

    “Our government takes community vitality to heart. Initiatives such as this one to build an athletics track in Grande-Rivière showcase their community, always to the benefit of those living in Canada. Like myself, residents in the MRC du Rocher-Percé can and must be proud of these very positive impacts on the region. This CED support will make it possible to improve the quality of life of citizens in Grande‑Rivière and across the regional county municipality.”

    The Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Member of Parliament for Hochelaga, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for CED

    “In every respect, this track meets the municipality’s objectives to develop quality sports infrastructure that is accessible to everyone so that citizens of all ages can grow and surpass themselves in a welcoming, safe environment and, in addition, so that we can finally host local and regional competitions. We already see a real trend around walking and running. A walking club with over 100 seniors, high school students training over their lunch hour, and young athletes from the athletics club who are already making a name for themselves provincially are so many examples that make me proud of this investment.”

    Gino Cyr, Mayor, Ville de Grande-Rivière

    Quick facts

    • The Canada Community Revitalization Fund (CCRF) was launched in June 2021. A total of $500 million was provided over two years to Canada’s regional development agencies (RDAs), including $107 million to CED to invest in shared and inclusive public spaces in Quebec. As public health restrictions ease, the Government of Canada remains committed to investing in shared spaces to make them safer, greener and more accessible. This in turn will stimulate local economies, create jobs and improve quality of life for Canadians. This funding helps communities:
      • adapt community spaces and assets so that they may be used safely in accordance with local public-health guidelines; and
      • build or improve community spaces to encourage Canadians to re-engage in and explore their communities and regions.
    • The CCRF is being deployed under CED’s Quebec Economic Development Program (QEDP).
    • CED is the key federal partner in Quebec’s regional economic development. With its 12 regional business offices, CED accompanies businesses, supporting organizations and all regions across Quebec into tomorrow’s economy.

    Associated links

    Information

    Media Relations
    Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions
    media@dec-ced.gc.ca

    Marie-Justine Torres
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions
    Cell: 613-327-5918
    marie-justine.torresames@ised-isde.gc.ca

    Stay connected

    Follow CED on social media
    Consult CED’s news

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Readout of Navy Leadership’s Meeting with the Governor of Guam (Oct. 16, 2024)

    Source: United States Navy

    Mancinelli and the Governor talked about the importance of the Indo-Pacific region and reaffirmed their commitment to working together on shared goals.

    The Navy Under Secretary thanked the Governor for her strong and consistent support of the U.S. military presence on Guam.

    Governor Guerrero spoke about the need for increased federal investment on Guam, and her desire for additional support on infrastructure, healthcare, and Typhoon Mawar recovery efforts.

    Mancinelli emphasized the importance of continued dialogue with Guam’s local stakeholders and other government agencies. He also discussed the ways in which the Department of Defense will continue to work together with the Governor’s office to understand how the military build-up on Guam can be done in partnership with the on-island community.

    This was the first in-person meeting with the Governor since Mancinelli assumed the position of Acting Under Secretary of the Navy, August 20.

    As the Department of Defense’s Senior Defense Official for Guam, Acting Under Secretary Mancinelli looks forward to working with the Governor of Guam to secure the U.S. homeland, improve the resiliency of Guam, and maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Niger

    Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel

    • Reviewed: 17 October 2024, 08:02 NZDT
    • Still current at: 17 October 2024

    Related news features

    If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

    Do not travel to Niger due to the threat of terrorism and kidnapping, the presence of armed militants and the unpredictable security situation (level 4 of 4).

    Niger

    Terrorism
     There is a high threat from terrorism in Niger. Terrorist groups are active across Niger, particularly, in the western, northwestern and southeastern parts of the country, Since 2013, there have been a number of retaliatory attacks against the Niger government for its participation in regional interventions in Mali and Nigeria to repel armed rebels.

    The Nigerian-based terrorist group Boko Haram has a strong presence in neighbouring areas of northern Nigeria and has conducted cross-border attacks in Niger, near the Nigerian border, particularly in the Diffa region. State of Emergencies and curfews may be in place in regions of concern. Comply with any instructions issued by local authorities.  

    Terrorist attacks could occur at any time and may be directed at locations known to be frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers, as well as security forces and premises associated with the Government of Niger. The security situation across the Sahel continues to deteriorate, and regions previously considered to be less at risk may now be subject to terrorism and related security threats.

    New Zealanders are advised to be security conscious at all times, particularly in public areas. We recommend monitoring media reports and local information sources for possible threats to your safety and security.

    Kidnapping
    There is a high threat of kidnapping against foreigners in Niger, including in the capital Niamey. The risk increases substantially outside Niamey, in the north of the country and in border areas. Terrorist groups active in Niger have been known to specifically target foreigners. In October 2020, a US citizen was kidnapped in the village of Massalata in southern Niger, about 10km from the border with Nigeria. In the past, foreigners have been kidnapped from their vehicles, homes and places of work.

    Violent Crime
    Crime levels in Niger are high, and foreigners are frequently targeted. Muggings are common in Niamey around the Gawaye Hotel, the National Museum, Kennedy Bridge and the Petit Marché, particularly at night. New Zealanders are advised not to walk alone or after dark in these areas. Other common types of crime include home invasions, carjackings assault and theft.

    Armed bandits operate throughout eastern and southern Niger, the border area with Nigeria south of Zinder, and large parts of northern Niger are off-limits to tourists.

    Petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching occurs in Niamey and  throughout Niger. You should take steps to secure your personal belongings and avoid wearing or displaying valuables such as mobile devices and jewellery or leaving them visible in vehicles.

    Local Travel
    New Zealanders who decide to travel outside Niamey should ensure they put in place appropriate personal security protection measures, and take official warnings seriously. We recommend travelling in convoy of at least two vehicles, with a local guide and only during daylight hours. Attacks have occurred on the Agadez-Arlit, Agedez-Tahoua, and Tillabéry-Niamey roads and within the city of Zinder. You should prepare well in advance and ensure all vehicles are fully equipped with essential supplies, including a satellite phone. 

    We advise against the use of public transport in Niger. There have been incidents of armed robbery resulting in deaths on buses in Niger. Taxis are often under-maintained and dangerous and should be avoided. It is recommended that you hire a private car with a driver. Lock car doors and keep windows shut at all times.

    Local authorities are sensitive about foreigners travelling out of Tahoua to the east or north of Niger. If you travel in the Agadez region without obtaining prior authorisation, you risk arrest or deportation.

    Civil Unrest
    Niger frequently experiences protests and demonstrations, usually near government buildings and university campuses, some of which have turned violent in the past. Mobile phone and internet access may be disrupted during civil unrest.

    Since the military takeover in July 2023, there has been political instability in Niger. New Zealanders in Niger should remain vigilant and monitor the media for further information.

    New Zealanders are advised to follow any advice issued by the local authorities, including curfews, and avoid all demonstrations, protests and rallies as they have the potential to turn violent with little warning.

    Landmines
    There is a danger from unexploded landmines in some parts of Niger, including in Niamey and in the northern region of Agadez. We recommend you remain on well-used roads and paths.

    Scams
    Commercial and internet fraud is a common problem in many African countries. New Zealanders in Niger should be wary of any offers that seem too good to be true, as they may be a scam. For further information see our advice on Internet Fraud and International Scams.

    General Travel Advice
    As there is no New Zealand diplomatic presence in Niger, the ability of the government to provide consular assistance to New Zealand citizens is severely limited.

    We offer advice to New Zealanders about contingency planning that travellers to Niger should consider.

    New Zealanders are advised to respect religious and social traditions in Niger to avoid offending local sensitivities.

    Photography of public buildings and military facilities is prohibited, and could result in detention. If in doubt, don’t take a picture.

    Medical facilities are limited and of poor quality, including in the capital Niamey. New Zealanders travelling or living in Niger should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air.

    New Zealanders in Niger are strongly encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

     

    Travel tips

    See our regional advice for Africa

    Top of page

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Japan boosts African Development Fund with JPY 51.67 billion concessional loan

    Source: African Development Bank Group

    The African Development Bank Group and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) have signed a landmark 51.67 billion Japanese yen (US$421 million) concessional donor loan (CDL) agreement towards the African Development Fund.

    The loan, pledged by the Japanese government at the 16th general replenishment of the resources of the African Development Fund in December 2022, will support much-needed development in Africa’s least developed and fragile countries. The country is a top donor to the African Development Fund, having contributed the largest loans to the 14th, 15th and 16th replenishments of the Fund.

    Present at the signing ceremony on Tuesday 15 October, Deputy Vice Minister Daiho Fujii of the Finance Ministry expressed optimism that Japan’s concessional donor loan, together with grant contributions, would support African countries to address various challenges relating to climate change, lack of infrastructure, fragility, regional integration, private sector development, and debt management and transparency.

    “Through fruitful discussions, we reaffirmed that the African Development Fund has been playing a significant role in supporting low-income countries in Africa through its concessional loans and grants. We commit to working together toward a successful ADF-17 replenishment discussion next year,” Fujii said.

    Japan and other donor countries met in Cotonou last week to review the progress made against operational priorities and policy commitments at the midpoint of the ADF-16 period that ran from 2023 to 2025. Fujii congratulated the African Development Bank Group on the successful mid-term review of the 16th cycle of ADF.

    African Development Bank Group President Dr Akinwumi Adesina, who is marking his fifth visit to the Asian nation, commended Japan’s government for its unwavering support.  He expressed the Bank Group’s appreciation for Japan’s broader partnership, particularly through JICA’s Enhanced Private Sector Assistance for Africa initiative – an innovative multi-component framework for resource mobilisation and development.

    Adesina said:  “We wouldn’t have had a successful ADF-16 replenishment without Japan’s continued support for concessional donor lending.  It is important to sign these agreements, but it is the lives we touch that matter.  We deliver what we promise. We keep our word”.

    He highlighted the significant impact of projects completed under the African Development Fund. “This year alone, 500,000 people have been connected to electricity, one million provided with water and sanitation, 2.5 million to improved transport, and 2.7 million to health services.”

    In her speech, JICA Executive Senior Vice President Katsura Miyazaki described the signing ceremony as symbolic.

    She said: “African countries are facing multiple crises. Rising energy and food prices, supply chain disruptions, and worsening debt sustainability are having a serious impact on African countries. The African Development Fund is critical to addressing these challenges.

    Japan’s journey with the African Development Fund

    The African Development Fund (ADF), the concessional lending window of the Bank Group was established in 1972 and became operational in 1974.

    Japan joined the Fund in June 1973 and has contributed to all its replenishments, significantly increasing its contributions over time.

    Over the past 50 years, the ADF has played a pivotal role in providing concessional resources and knowledge services to low-income African countries, consistently demonstrating clear value for money. The ADF delivers transformative ideas and catalytic financing to these countries, including those in fragile situations. As a major source of financing, the ADF’s operations are efficient and deliver a strong development impact, cementing its reputation as a trusted and strategic partner for its stakeholders.

    Japan’s critical role in supporting the ADF was underscored by its extension of the largest concessional donor loan contributions to both ADF-15 and ADF-16, as well as the largest bridge loan provided to ADF-14. The Mid-Term Review (MTR) of ADF-16, successfully concluded in Cotonou in October 2024, highlighted several key achievements.

    Click here for photos.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shapiro Administration Reminds Pennsylvanians with Disabilities of Available Resources to Help Eligible Voters Make Their Voices Heard

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    October 16, 2024 – Harrisburg, PA

    Shapiro Administration Reminds Pennsylvanians with Disabilities of Available Resources to Help Eligible Voters Make Their Voices Heard

    Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Val Arkoosh today joined representatives from Self Advocates United as 1, the Arc of Pennsylvania, and Disability Rights Pennsylvania to share resources that are available to help eligible Pennsylvanians with disabilities prepare for the November 5 General Election and exercise their right to vote.

    “DHS works every day to help Pennsylvanians with disabilities live independently among family, friends, and neighbors so they may fully participate in that community. That includes doing our civic duty by exercising our right to vote,” said Secretary Arkoosh. “The right to vote is core to our democracy, and all Pennsylvanians should know that their right is honored and protected here in our Commonwealth, and resources are available for voters with disabilities to make sure they have what they need to cast their vote in this November’s election.”

    Resources and accommodations are available at all steps of the voting process to make voting accessible for Pennsylvanians with disabilities.

    Speakers in Order:
    Val Arkoosh – Secretary, PA Department of HumanServices (DHS)
    Sonny O’Callaghan – Self Advocates United as 1
    Peri Jude Radecic – CEO, Disability Rights Pennsylvania
    Sherri Landis – Executive Director, the Arc of Pennsylvania

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Christine Lagarde: Lessons from Ljubljana in uncertain times

    Source: European Central Bank

    Speech by Christine Lagarde, President of the ECB, at the official dinner of Banka Slovenije in Ljubljana, Slovenia

    Ljubljana, 16 October 2024

    It is a pleasure to be here this evening.

    Not far from here, tucked away in the National and University Library, lie copies of the Abecedarium and the Catechism. These two texts, written by the religious reformer Primož Trubar in 1550, were the first ever books to be printed in Slovenian.[1]

    At a time when German was the language of the ruling classes, Trubar’s pioneering act was fundamental in helping to establish the national identity of Slovenians.[2]

    Today, his portrait graces the €1 coin in Slovenia, framed by the famous words found in the Catechism, “Stati inu Obstati” – “to stand and withstand”.[3]

    It is telling that both books – one a primer for the Slovenian language, the other guidelines for religious observance – were designed to teach, for there is much that Europe can learn from Slovenia in the uncertain world we now face.

    The global order we knew is fading. Open trade is being replaced with fragmented trade, multilateral rules with state-sponsored competition and stable geopolitics with conflict.

    Europe had invested considerably in the old order, so this transition is challenging for us. As the most open of the major economies, we are more exposed than others.

    So, in this new landscape, we too must learn “to stand and withstand”. And we can do so by drawing on two valuable lessons from Ljubljana.

    Opportunity in times of uncertainty

    The first lesson is that uncertainty can create opportunity.

    While many in Europe are anxious about the future, Slovenians are no strangers to uncertainty.

    Within a single generation, Slovenia made a success of the extraordinarily difficult transition from a planned economy to a market economy. Policymakers defied the odds by implementing tough structural reforms to first join the EU and, later, the euro area.

    Today, Slovenia is a success story. It is a developed, stable and high-income economy, with the highest GDP per capita at purchasing power parity of central and eastern European countries (CEECs).

    The nation’s success owes much to the creativity and vigour of its people and their innate ability to seize economic turning points and transform them into opportunities.

    For example, when Slovenia joined the EU, it was exposed to greater levels of competition from other Member States in the economic bloc.

    But Slovenia quickly capitalised on its skilled workforce to develop a new business model based on deep integration in the Single Market. Today, every single car produced in Europe has at least one component that is made in Slovenia.[4]

    For Europe, the changes in the global economy today represent a similar turning point. But if we approach it with the right spirit, I believe it can be an opportunity for renewal.

    A less favourable global economy can push us to complete our domestic market. Fiercer foreign competition can encourage us to develop new technologies. More volatile geopolitics can drive us to become more energy secure and self-sufficient in our supply chains.

    For Slovenia, the transformation of the automotive supply chain will be a particular challenge. But the economy is already adapting. For example, in July this year Slovenia secured a major investment in domestic electric vehicle production.[5]

    For many Slovenians, striding into an unpredictable future may seem like second nature.

    One of your most famous paintings, “The Sower”, hangs on display here at the National Gallery. Depicting an agricultural labourer at the crack of dawn hard at work sowing seeds in a field, the painting represents Slovenians’ resolute determination in the face of uncertainty.

    The rest of us in Europe will need to draw on this example in the uncertain times ahead. If we do so, we can also turn uncertainty into opportunity.

    The importance of sharing the benefits of change

    The second lesson from Slovenia is that the benefits of change can – and should – be more widely shared.

    The path of renewal for Europe is inescapably linked with new technology, especially digitalisation. But new technologies can sometimes lead to uneven labour market outcomes.

    Slovenia has undergone remarkable technological change over the past 20 years. Today, the country’s level of digital development is 7% above the CEEC average and it can compete with some of the most digitally developed EU countries in certain areas.[6]

    Yet Slovenia’s Gini coefficient – a measure of income inequality – is the second lowest in the OECD.[7] The country also benefits from high levels of gender equality. Female labour force participation is higher than the EU average and nearly equal to that of men.[8]

    Many in Europe are worried about the challenges ahead, such as the effects of artificial intelligence on social inclusion. But we should let Slovenia’s example inspire us.

    With the right approach, we can move forward and become more technologically advanced while ensuring everyone can benefit from the gains.

    And when everyone benefits, Europe benefits too. Over three-quarters of citizens in Slovenia feel attached to Europe, and almost two-thirds identify as both Slovenian and European – levels that are well above their respective EU averages.[9]

    Conclusion

    Let me conclude.

    In today’s uncertain world, Europe must learn “to stand and withstand”. And it can do so by looking to Slovenia as an example of how to overcome challenges that come its way.

    First, we must work hard to sow the seeds of success. And then, as the folk singer Vlado Kreslin sings, “vse se da” – “everything is possible”.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Ensuring newcomers can succeed in Alberta

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Alberta’s government is committed to ensuring that every newcomer can thrive and reach their highest potential in the province. Newcomers play a vital role in Alberta’s economy, helping to address skills shortages in key sectors such as health care and construction. The Summit will explore pathways to newcomer success that support Alberta’s economic growth.

    The theme of this year’s summit is “Celebrating Trades and Professions in Alberta,” and will highlight real-life success stories. The Summit brings together key partners from across Alberta to discuss actions that will benefit newcomers and all Albertans, and demonstrate how the skilled trades and regulated professions can offer clear pathways to financial stability and success for newcomers. Attendees will include representatives from newcomer serving organizations, post-secondary institutions, select Alberta regulatory bodies, trades unions and industry.

    “A major part of the Alberta Advantage is the people who contribute to our communities, our economy and our prosperity. As Alberta’s economy continues to build momentum, we’re seeing a growing need for skilled labour in many areas. We know many newcomers have the skills and experience to fill those jobs, so it’s critical we create an environment where foreign trade credentials are recognized more quickly and with less red tape.”

    Danielle Smith, Premier of Alberta

    Key topics at this year’s summit include:

    • Attracting talent: strategies to attract the hard work, skills and entrepreneurial drive of newcomers to strengthen Alberta’s workforce.
    • Pathways to success: clear pathways into the skilled trades and regulated professions for newcomers to Alberta.
    • Credential recognition: efforts to streamline the recognition of foreign credentials, helping newcomers enter the job market quickly.
    • Recognizing achievement: ways that Alberta’s government is facilitating newcomer participation in the labour market.

    Monte McNaughton, Ontario’s former minister of labour, will deliver a keynote speech to share his insights on labour, training and skills development, including groundbreaking efforts to support newcomers in the workforce.

    “Newcomers bring invaluable skills, ideas and perspectives that enrich our workforce and communities. With the right support and recognition of their international skills, newcomers can thrive in the skilled trades and regulated professions. These professions are more than just jobs; they are pathways to prosperity.”

    Rajan Sawhney, Minister of Advanced Education

    “Each story shared at this summit serves as a reminder of the resilience and determination of newcomers. These stories of success demonstrate that with the right support and recognition, newcomers can thrive and drive innovation in our economy.”

    Muhammad Yaseen, Minister of Immigration and Multiculturalism

    Advanced Education continues to work collaboratively with other jurisdictions to streamline the recognition of international trade credentials, allowing more newcomers to work in their trade in Alberta without repeating training or exams.

    Related information

    • Premier’s Summit on Fairness for Newcomers

    Related news

    • Immigration pathway assists Alberta health care (Aug. 8, 2024)
    • Partnering to streamline trade credentials (July 5, 2024)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Manitoba Government Introduces Legislation to Help Build New Housing Faster

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    October 16, 2024

    Manitoba Government Introduces Legislation to Help Build New Housing Faster

    – – –
    Proposed Amendments Would Make It Easier for Municipalities to Update Zoning Bylaws: Bushie

    The Manitoba government has introduced amendments to the Planning Act and the City of Winnipeg Charter Act that would change the appeals process for zoning changes by removing a requirement that made it difficult for municipalities to change local zoning bylaws and allowing faster new housing construction, Municipal and Northern Relations Minister Ian Bushie announced today. 

    “This amendment is an important tool for municipalities to create new housing in a way that would reduce challenges currently associated with the public appeals process,” said Bushie. “Municipalities in all regions of the province would be able to act swiftly and effectively to address local housing shortages and incentivize the development of new housing.” 

    The proposed legislative amendments would require 300 eligible persons to object in order to trigger a public appeal to the Manitoba Municipal Board, up from 25 eligible persons, in Winnipeg, Brandon and other municipalities and planning districts with a population over 6,000 per census population. 

    In municipalities and planning districts with a population under 6,000, the proposed amendments would increase the number of local objectors required to trigger a referral to the greater of 100 eligible persons or five per cent of the census population. These legislative changes are expected to result in faster, clearer decisions and reduce the cost and length of potential delays.  

    “The Association of Manitoba Municipalities (AMM) appreciates this initial step in raising the objector threshold, which will not only reduce unnecessary costs and delays but also help restore greater municipal autonomy,” said Kathy Valentino, interim president, AMM. “These legislative amendments also mark a positive move toward balancing local voices with the need for efficient development, and we look forward to continued collaboration in shaping policies that reflect the unique interests of all local councils.”  

    Bushie said this amendment is the first of other potential changes arising from the government’s commitment to review Bill 37, the Planning Amendment and City of Winnipeg Charter Amendment Act, speed up approval timelines and make sure local voices are respected. To that end, Municipal and Northern Relations is undergoing a statutory review of planning legislation. The province expects phase two consultations to be complete by the end of October, noted the minister. 

    – 30 –

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: United in Ukraine’s Recovery: EC-EIB-UNDP partnership is driving reconstruction and building resilience

    Source: European Investment Bank

    Ivana Živković emphasised: “While the resilience of Ukrainians fills me with hope, the continuous attacks threaten to erase the hard-won gains from our joint recovery efforts. We must remain steadfast in our support for Ukraine and ensure that the lessons learned here are reflected in our response. Trust among our partnerships has enabled us to respond swiftly and effectively to the needs of Ukraine. Our focus is not just on rebuilding infrastructure but on empowering local communities to lead their own recovery. This is how we ensure resilience and sustainability.”

    These recovery projects are supported by international partners but are fully managed by local governments, whose leadership is crucial to their success, as they are tailored to each community’s needs. Two Ukrainian mayors shared details of the recovery projects currently underway in their regions, showcasing Ukraine’s resilient spirit that thrives even in the smallest communities. Both leaders exemplify proactive local governance as they address the challenges of recovering from war damages, accommodating displaced persons, and developing their villages to flourish amid ongoing adversities and the pressures of modern urbanisation trends.

    Mykhailo Demchenko, Head of the Stryzhavka Territorial Community in Vinnytsia Region, said: “In Stryzhavka, we are working on key projects that include the construction of a new administrative building and major repairs to two local schools recently inaugurated. These initiatives, part of the Ukraine Recovery Programme, are essential for restoring not only infrastructure but also community spirit and functionality. With support from the EU Delegation, the EIB and UNDP, we’re building a brighter future for our residents and the internally displaced persons (IDPs) we are hosting.”

    Ruslan Yaremchuk, Head of the Palanka Territorial Community in Cherkasy Region stated: “Our community is focused on rebuilding educational institutions that were severely damaged during the war, including the Palanka Lyceum and Horodetska Secondary School. We are also renovating the Palanka kindergarten, ensuring that our youngest residents have a safe place to learn. These projects, with a total investment of over €4 million, are vital for the long-term resilience of Palanka.”

    Recovery efforts and long-term reforms are vital 

    The event’s panel discussion was moderated by Kristina Mikulova, head of the EIB Regional Hub for Eastern Europe and focused on the evolving needs of Ukraine. Vsevolod Chentsov, Head of the Mission of Ukraine to the European Union, highlighted the country’s urgent priorities, particularly ahead of the upcoming winter: “The ongoing Russian missile and drone strikes have devastated 9 GW of Ukraine’s energy generation capacity, leaving us in an urgent and critical situation. The European Union’s financial backing, which has already provided €2 billion in aid, and the contributions from member states, including funds from frozen Russian assets, are crucial to preventing a worst-case scenario this winter.”

    Anna Jarosz Friis, Director of the Ukraine Service at DG NEAR, emphasised the European Commission’s commitment to supporting Ukraine through the Ukraine Facility 2024-2027, which aims to address both immediate recovery needs and long-term reforms. Violaine Silvestro von Kameke, Principal Advisor at the EIB, illustrated the tangible impact of recent projects she inaugurated, showcasing how EIB framework loans have improved lives across more than 120 communities. Additionally, Jaco Cilliers, UNDP Resident Representative in Ukraine, shared valuable insights from UNDP’s extensive crisis response work, drawing parallels between Ukraine’s early recovery efforts and similar initiatives in other fragile environments worldwide.

    Looking ahead: building a resilient future for Ukraine

    As Ukraine navigates the ongoing challenges posed by the war, international support remains crucial. The EU-EIB-UNDP partnership will continue to play a pivotal role in meeting both immediate recovery needs and long-term investment goals, particularly as Ukraine strives for EU accession. The event highlighted the progress made so far, while acknowledging the long road ahead for rebuilding a resilient and sustainable Ukraine.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Taking account of the skilled trades in legislation and cutting red tape – E-001537/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Reducing administrative burdens and simplifying implementation are key political priorities for the next mandate[1]. A new small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and competitiveness check for new initiatives will help design them with small businesses in mind, avoiding unnecessary burdens and too complex legislation.

    The work on the reduction of burdens related to reporting obligations by 25% continues and will intensify to reduce burdens by at least 35% for SMEs.

    In line with the better regulation guidelines[2], one-off and recurrent costs are compiled for Commission proposals[3]. The offsetting under the ‘one-in, one-out’ approach applies to administrative costs while adjustment costs are compensated for to the greatest extent.

    Your Europe[4] is the EU’s main digital tool providing information and access to digital procedures to SMEs seeking to complete EU and national level formalities. In 2023, the Commission launched a technical system[5] allowing national authorities to apply the once-only principle to a wide range of formalities.

    The Commission systematically involves SME organisations in policymaking. The network of SME Envoys[6] brings together EU and Member States’ officials and SME organisations to promote SME-friendly regulation and policies.

    Some SME organisations are members of the Fit for Future platform[7]. Collecting direct input from companies, including through SME panel consultations, is equally important for the Commission.

    The Regulatory Scrutiny Board has already been strengthened with two additional board members with the aim to allow an enhanced focus on competitiveness.

    • [1] Political guidelines for the next European Commission 2024-2029, https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/e6cd4328-673c-4e7a-8683-f63ffb2cf648_en?filename=Political%20Guidelines%202024-2029_EN.pdf
    • [2] https://commission.europa.eu/law/law-making-process/planning-and-proposing-law/better-regulation/better-regulation-guidelines-and-toolbox_en
    • [3] Su ch costs are presented in Annex 3 of impact assessment reports accompanying Commission proposals.
    • [4] Your Europe at https://europa.eu/youreurope/index.htm was the Commission ’s most visited website in 2023.
    • [5] https://ec.europa.eu/digital-building-blocks/sites/display/DIGITAL/Once+Only+Technical+System
    • [6] https://ec.europa.eu/transparency/expert-groups-register/screen/expert-groups/consult?lang=en&do=groupDetail.groupDetail&groupID=2666
    • [7] https://commission.europa.eu/law/law-making-process/evaluating-and-improving-existing-laws/refit-making-eu-law-simpler-less-costly-and-future-proof/fit-future-platform-f4f/composition/fit-future-platform-stakeholder-group-0_en
    Last updated: 16 October 2024

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaine, Colleagues Push for DOD to Provide Increased Transparency for Children’s Hospitals Serving Defense Communities

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, joined 19 of his Senate and House colleagues in sending a letter to Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin urging the Defense Health Agency (DHA) to provide clarity on the implementation of a change in reimbursements for children’s hospitals that provide care to military families covered by TRICARE, the government health care program for active duty servicemembers and their families.
    “We write to express our deep concerns about a 2023 Defense Health Agency (DHA) rule that catalyzed a major shift in the TRICARE reimbursement methodology for children’s hospitals,” wrote the lawmakers. “Children’s hospitals situated in defense communities in our home states are now grappling with the impacts of this change as well as the ripple effects that the ensuing financial challenges may have on the provision of care for military families. For states with large military populations and no specialty children’s hospital, any reduction in access to care would further complicate military families’ choices by increasing burdens placed on families who already have to travel outside of their own state for medical services.”
    DHA previously exempted children’s hospitals from the Medicare outpatient reimbursement model because the reimbursement rate did not adequately reflect the specialized care provided at children’s hospitals. Over 2.4 million children obtain care from children’s hospitals through TRICARE each year, and the change has created some challenges for children’s hospitals in major defense communities like Virginia. Children’s hospitals that serve many servicemembers’ children, such as The Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters in Norfolk, are seeking increased transparency on how these changes will be implemented. This clarity is crucial to ensuring the continuity of services and care that military families need.
    The Children’s Hospital Association (CHA) sent letters to the Department of Defense in 2020 and 2023 expressing their concerns about the proposed rule. In their letter, the lawmakers specifically asked the following questions:
    What dialogue has DHA had with the affected children’s hospitals to understand how this new reimbursement methodology impacts operations and access to care?
    What data and sources informed the agency’s analysis of the impact on children’s hospitals that care for TRICARE patients?
    How did the agency account for the financial impacts of military families traveling for care in circumstances where local services are no longer available?
    How did the agency develop the contingency payment and why did the DHA set a lower contingency payment for pediatrics?
    Can the agency verify the number of children’s hospitals that are expected to qualify for the contingency payment that is outlined in the rule?
    The full text of the letter is available here.

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Strengthening the competitiveness of Europe’s agricultural sector – E-001491/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The Common Agricultural Policy has a plethora of tools to support and improve the competitiveness of European farmers. Beyond direct income support with different complementary payments for farmers facing specific challenges, access to finance via financial instruments and support for innovation as well as farm advisory services. The Commission will continue its focus on strengthening the EU food system’s competitiveness, resilience, and sustainability. In its first 100 days, the Commission will publish a communication on a Vision for Agriculture and Food outlining a long-term perspective for the sector and addressing imbalances in the food chain. This communication will take stock of the recommendations from the recent report of the Strategic Dialogue on the future of EU Agriculture[1], present a first assessment of feasible proposals and build bridges with other policy areas, in order to ensure the long-term competitiveness and sustainability of EU agriculture, highlighting its strategic role in the new geopolitical context.

    2. The enlargement process will need to be carefully managed so that the internal market and a common agricultural policy are maintained, avoiding undue shocks and with careful consideration of competitive pressure. It will therefore require a thorough impact assessment of its long-term effects on the viability of agriculture in the EU-27 and in the acceding countries to properly address any identified challenges. The enlargement process will also take time and is merit-based, which will allow for gradual integration of Ukraine in order to mitigate any unwanted shocks Finally, as any candidate country, Ukraine will have to apply the EU acquis in full at accession. This includes all EU requirements in the area of agriculture in force at that time.

    Last updated: 16 October 2024

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Leaders from 120 Member Countries to attend the Seventh Session of the International Solar Alliance Assembly in New Delhi

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Leaders from 120 Member Countries to attend the Seventh Session of the International Solar Alliance Assembly in New Delhi  

    ISA has evolved into a key platform for global solar cooperation, now encompassing 120 Member & Signatory Countries : Union Minister Pralhad Joshi

    Seventh Session of ISA will held in New Delhi from from 3rd to 6th November 2024

    Posted On: 16 OCT 2024 7:01PM by PIB Delhi

    The curtain raiser for the Seventh Session of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) Assembly was hosted today in New Delhi. Representatives from 60 countries participated in the event. 

    The assembly will be presided over by Shri Pralhad Joshi, Union Minister of New and Renewable Energy. The Seventh Session of the ISA Assembly is set to be a truly global event. Ministers, missions, and delegates from 120 Member and Signatory Countries, along with partner organisations and stakeholders, will come together to focus on initiatives to improve energy access, security, and transition.

    Shri Pralhad Joshi, Union Minister of New and Renewable Energy & President of the ISA Assembly, addressed the august gathering, stating, “ISA has evolved into a key platform for global solar cooperation, now encompassing 120 Member & Signatory Countries. This growing commitment demonstrates solar energy’s significant role in addressing our shared energy access challenges and the adverse effects of climate change. The progress made by ISA’s Member Countries in adopting solar energy is remarkable. Solar energy, available year-round and in abundance in some of our Member Countries, holds the potential to be the game-changer in the theatre of global climate action. Its attributes of being clean, reliable, free and easily accessible to all make it central to achieving universal energy access. Our efforts through the ISA focus on expanding solar infrastructure, creating green jobs, supporting livelihoods, and mitigating climate impacts.”

     

     

    Under the presidency of the Republic of India and co-presidency of the Republic of France, the seventh session of the International Solar Alliance Assembly will be held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, India, from 03 November to 06 November 2024. Ministers, mission heads, and senior government officials from 120 Member and Signatory Countries, prospective countries, partner organisations, the private sector, and key stakeholders will participate.

     

    Shri Ajay Yadav, Joint Secretary, MNRE, Government of India, in his opening remarks, noted, “Global solar deployment presents its challenges: investments, infrastructure, and indigenisation. Countering these challenges demands targeted efforts to support the sector’s expansion. Further highlighting ISA’s role and substantial contributions, he said, “To address these challenges through various programmes, initiatives, and collaborations with governments, private enterprises, and international organisations and by working with its Member Countries, ISA creates opportunities to diversify global supply chains and boost solar energy demand, contributing to manufacturing capacity growth.” Elaborating on the focused efforts, he added, “We proudly count 120 among our Member & Signatory Countries, with 102 ratifying the ISA Framework Agreement, showcasing our growing global influence. With the firm support of Member Countries, ISA has successfully launched initiatives to accelerate solar adoption, foster innovation, and enhance capacity-building efforts.”

    Dr Ajay Mathur, Director General of the International Solar Alliance, said, “The International Solar Alliance stands at the forefront of global efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDGs 7 & 13 on affordable and clean energy and climate action respectively. The International Solar Alliance is a force for change. It harmonises and aggregates demand for solar finance, technologies, innovation, research and development, and capacity building. This initiative is more than just a coalition; it is a revolutionary movement reshaping our energy landscape and our planet’s future. Adding further, he said, “As we approach the mark to last five years to realise the goals defined by the 2030 Agenda, this session of the ISA Assembly is an important nudge to accelerate our actions and raise our ambitions. All stakeholders must make this decade count in favour of climate action. Our work at the ISA directly supports the implementation of the Paris Agreement and contributes to the broader UN framework for sustainable development. ISA is working with Member Countries to help shape conducive policies to bring in investments in solar energy, a sustainable pipeline of solar-powered projects, and help build skills to sustain solar projects in the long term.”

    At this assembly, the fulcrum of the discussions will be the means and modes that will be adopted to accelerate solar deployment across Member Countries, especially in regions with limited energy access.  Additionally, updates on the following ISA’s flagship initiatives for entrepreneurs, skill enhancement and capacity building, mobilising finance, and advocacy for solar as energy as a choice will be presented:

    • SolarX Startup Challenge, launched by ISA in collaboration with Invest India in 2022, at COP27 in Egypt, the challenge aims to foster entrepreneurship by supporting scalable and replicable solar energy business models in ISA’s Member Countries.
    • The STAR-C initiative, launched in 2022 by ISA, UNIDO, and the Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, France, aims to build capacity and align skills with national training needs. It enhances quality infrastructure and standards for photovoltaic and solar thermal products to drive economic growth and job creation.
    • Global Solar Facility: launched in 2022, enhances solar investments in underserved regions, particularly Africa, using tools like the Solar Payment Guarantee Fund and Solar Insurance Fund.
    • The First International Solar Festival, launched in September 2024, brought together corporates, academia, youth, community leaders, and other stakeholders to exchange ideas, promoting creativity and international cooperation for a future driven by solar energy.

     

    The Assembly’s seventh session will be followed by a day-long series of sessions styled as a ‘High-Level Conference on New Technologies for Clean Energy Transition’ on 5 November 2024 hosted in collaboration with the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy, the Government of India, the Asian Development Bank, and the International Solar Energy Society. The conference’s third edition will be attended by the ministerial delegations of the ISA Member Countries, policymakers, subject matter experts, and industry leaders. Through its deliberations, the Conference aims to inspire real-world change and make significant strides toward achieving global climate goals by fostering collaboration, sparking innovation, and sharing knowledge by focusing on promoting solar energy to cut carbon emissions, find ways to expand energy access and boost economic growth. The Conference will also witness the release of the third edition of ISA’s World Solar Reports on Technology, Finance, and Markets.

    The Assembly proceedings will conclude on 6 November 2024 with a visit to a farm site on the outskirts of New Delhi showcasing the practical implementation of agrivoltaic systems. The site in Najafgarh is maintained by the India Agrivoltaics Alliance, an initiative of the National Solar Energy Federation of India (NSEFI), along with like-minded organisations dedicated to advancing the concept of agrivoltaics in India, which involves the simultaneous use of land for both agriculture and solar energy generation.

    ABOUT THE ISA ASSEMBLY

    The Assembly is the apex decision-making body of ISA, representing each Member Country. This body makes decisions concerning the implementation of the ISA’s Framework Agreement and coordinated actions to be taken to achieve its objective. The Assembly meets annually at the ministerial level at the ISA’s seat. It assesses the aggregate effect of the programmes and other activities in terms of deployment of solar energy, performance, reliability, cost and scale of finance. 120 countries are signatories to the ISA Framework Agreement, of which 102 countries have submitted the necessary instruments of ratification to become full members of the ISA. The Republic of India holds the office of the President of the ISA Assembly, with the Government of the French Republic as the co-president.

    The Seventh Session of the ISA Assembly will deliberate on initiatives of ISA that impact energy access, security, and transitions with a focus on:

    • Empowering Member Countries to adopt solar energy as the energy source of choice
    • Make energy access universal by supporting solar entrepreneurs to scale up local solutions
    • Mobilise finance to speed up solar deployment

    ABOUT THE INTERNATIONAL SOLAR ALLIANCE

    The International Solar Alliance is an international organisation with 120 Member & Signatory Countries. It works with governments to improve energy access and security worldwide and promote solar power as a sustainable way to transition to a carbon-neutral future.

    ISA’s mission is to unlock US$ 1 trillion of investments in solar by 2030 while reducing the cost of the technology and its financing. It promotes the use of solar energy in the agriculture, health, transport and power generation sectors. ISA Member Countries are driving change by enacting policies and regulations, sharing best practices, agreeing on common standards, and mobilising investments. Through this work, ISA has identified and designed and tested new business models for solar projects; supported governments to make their energy legislation and policies solar-friendly through Ease of Doing Solar analytics and advisory; pooled demand for solar technology from different countries, and drove down costs; improved access to finance by reducing the risks and making the sector more attractive to private investment; increased access to solar training, data and insights for solar engineers and energy policymakers.

    ISA was formed at the 21st Conference of Parties (COP21) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) held in Paris in 2015 and is partnering with multilateral development banks (MDBs), development financial institutions (DFIs), private and public sector organisations, civil society, and other international institutions to deploy cost-effective and transformational energy solutions powered by the sun, especially in the least Developed Countries (LDCs) and the Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

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    Navin Sreejith

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Text of the Vice President’s address at the foundation stone laying ceremony of the Meghalaya Skill and Innovation Hub in Mawdiangdiang (Excerpts)

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 16 OCT 2024 7:10PM by PIB Delhi

    Very good afternoon to all of you. 

    After landing in Meghalaya my spirits are high. I am having a heavenly feeling, you all are blessed to be living here. 

    Let me assure you all, the Honourable Governor pointed out, the demographic composition of the state is very soothing wholesome and is a perfect recipe for success, the teenage youth, the mid-level youth, the mature youth.

    What I saw here and much of it is already in progress, I can visualise that the days of this state are for the better and role model for other similar states. My congratulations to you and your team for being very thoughtful, futuristic and taking into consideration our contemporaneous needs and requirements.

    It was a delightful moment for the entire country when we had Madam Droupadi Murmu as our President, the first tribal woman to occupy such a high office. I must share my joy that we have amongst us a bureaucrat, Idashisha Nongrang, the first woman DGP of Meghalaya and the first tribal lady from Meghalaya to be DGP. These twin credentials define changing profile of India’s growth trajectory. As Chairman, Rajya Sabha I was in the chair when reservation was made for one-third women to be in the Lok Sabha and state legislatures.

    Distinguished bureaucrats and most importantly, boys and girls at the outset let me extend an invitation to two categories. I will request the Honourable Chief Minister that in batches I would invite students to be my guests at new building of Parliament.

    This is an ongoing exercise and I get energised, enthused, motivated, and inspired when I interact with them in Rajya Sabha Secretariat. I can assure you, you will have a lifetime experience to see the new building of Parliament. In the face of COVID, the building came into being in less than 30 months with old infrastructure. Depicting our civilisational depth of 5,000 years and I am sure the batches will start coming from November. I will recruit an officer to coordinate with the Office of the Chief Secretary to make things smooth. 

    I also take the opportunity and that I have done with some other states in the Northeast to invite their legislators to be my guests and I am sure here also, the Honourable Chief Minister, Leader of the House, and keeping in mind that his father was a very illustrious speaker of the Lok Sabha, he himself has been in that theatre so has been the Honourable Governor.  A visit by legislators to the Indian Parliament will make all the difference. It will add value to their work pattern. 

    The subject of skilling is indeed of contemporary relevance and in that context it was my delightful moment to be associated with two significant programmes and presence for the third one. Laying the foundation stone for the Meghalaya Skill and Innovation Hub is not a small step. It will bring about big change. I am sure it will come into being functionally quite soon, unfolding of the infrastructure reveals that its size is going to be gigantic and will attract attention beyond the state but human resource involvement would also give a cutting edge. 

    I would particularly request the Honourable Minister for Skilling Government of India, Shri Jayant Chaudhary to have deliberations with the Honourable Chief Minister and the team. He is a dynamic minister with independent charge and has already revealed his mind by two very important articles. So, the kind of passion I saw in the Chief Minister, the mission mode in which he reflected, the execution for which he is known, I am sure this is going to be a real boon to the youth because these are the times where skilling is no longer a quality, it is our need, it is our daily need. 

    It was equally delightful to launch CM Business Catalyst: Student B-Plan challenge. That was amazing. I was a student of physics not of chemistry but I learned over the years that a catalyst is something very important. You have to catalyse the change, you have to bring about the change you believe in. Someone has to take that step and that step was taken by visionary Prime Minister Narendra Modi ten years back. No one is more informed than I am about the situation of the country in 1989 when I was a member of parliament and a minister.

    How shaky weaver on economy, how fragile was our foreign exchange balance and what was mood of the nation. Prime Minister, thoughtfully by visionary steps has uplifted the mood of the nation to one of hope and possibility. An ecosystem is in place now where every young boy and girl can look for a larger basket of opportunities. Must beyond, just getting into government service. The innovation which is our obvious forte, and skilling for which we have to be a global source centre. Now the programme has taken a structured method but even without it, our health workers have contributed so massively outside the country. Particularly our girls, they have earned laurels for the entire country.

    When I went to the Middle East and when I got accolades and what has come in several countries of the Middle East that infrastructure they stand out in the world for that, the underline backdrop of human resource is Indian genius, Indian skilled human resource.

    When Prime Minister Modi could get the entire world on the same page, with the United Nations declaring in the shortest time with the largest support of nations ‘International Yoga Day.’ The Prime Minister made a statement that we will have yoga instructors in every part of the globe. Yoga has become a science, yoga has become an industry, yoga has been associated with fitness and yoga has been associated with our civilisation depth. Because the greatest knowledge platform for health the Honourable Minister is aware of it, our Vedas ‘Atharvaveda’ you will find it.

    Boys and girls, this day indeed is a unique day and this makes my maiden visit to the state of Meghalaya very very special. It shall ever be etched in my memory. Honourable Chief Minister has been very kind, he has already extended invitation for a second visit. I remember when as president of the bar, I invited one of the persons, “Are you free for dinner today?” I was president of the bar and the great lawyer, who is no more, Ram Jethmalani, he said, “Think for a second time, Mr. Dhankhar.” I was young. I had the good fortune to be a member of parliament alongside him. He said, “I am in the habit of accepting good invitations for dinner.” But they say in the United States, there is nothing like a free lunch so, I accept the invitation with two caveats. I will entertain at least one group of students  boys and girls, and one group of legislators before I visit state of Meghalaya and this should happen in 2024. 

    Skill development has to be understood. It is not something we are discovering or innovating. We would need a plumber, we would need an electrician, we would need a driver, we would need a carpenter, we will need someone who can deal with our computer. We will need them, they’re already there. Skill means it gets the best out of you, skill is optimal exploitation of the talent of a person in that specified field and that gives the human resource a qualitative cutting edge. 

    Focus on this aspect by the Prime Minister has been laboured on and has consistently reflected on this and a big change has come.

    One, there’s a dedicated ministry. 

    Two, there is an allocation of 60,000 crores over a period of five years, where five lakh youth will be given such kind of internship. 

    Now, when we think of it, we have to get it closer to the requirement. Villages and semi-urban towns must be hub of skill centres of a kind, you can have them graded for some, you need a higher level of urbanisation because of human resource requirements. But this will be a great game changer and this skill for the state of Meghalaya can bring about wonders, incremental growth in your trajectory, a big economic upsurge related to tourism, for instance. Nature has bountifully gifted you. So soothing, this whole is air-conditioned by nature. Just imagine, elsewhere we have a tough time.

    So tourism by itself is sustaining the economy of several countries. You have to exploit it fully by having very talented skilled people in the shape of human resources. Every tourist carries memorable moments of professionalism, excellence because the rest of the things nature has given you. The engine of your economy can be driven singularly and on all cylinders by tourism. I was happy to note when I was interacting with the Honourable Chief Minister that he has a plan. The plan is in execution but these days, while I advise every young boy and girl to be patient, I want the 15% category to which the Chief Minister belongs to be impatient. To be functional 24×7 because if we shape their future, if we shape their career, if we keep them away from stress and tension, if we keep them away from the fear of failure, we will be contributing hugely to the growth of the nation and therefore, this has to be done.

    Skilling by itself is capacity building, I have seen for myself, we don’t take the first step, we fear it, we fear it thinking it is difficult. Let me tell you, there is no step which our youth cannot take. All are equal, You must be guided by your attitude and aptitude. Therein, if you get an idea in your mind, please don’t make your mind a parking place, your mind is meant to be a crucible of innovation. Try it, don’t fear failure because failures are just not there. 

    There are people who will always say the glass is half empty, don’t listen to them. Listen to those who say the glass is half full. Chandrayaan-2, I witnessed as the governor state of West Bengal, after midnight around 2 AM, Chandrayaan-2 was very close to the lunar surface but did not reach. Some took it as a failure. Chandrayaan-3 has demonstrated the success of Chandrayaan-3 giving Bharat the status of being the only country in the world to have landed its spacecraft at that part of the moon. It was majorly because of Chandrayaan-2.

    Skilling is fine, growth of the economy is fine but there has to be another spirit and the spirit of nationalism. North-East is a very important part of the country culturally, ethnically, historically and economically. In the 90s, a great step was taken ‘Look East’ but Prime Minister Modi gave it a cutting edge. He frog-leaped into larger space by indicating ‘Look East act East’ and that act East has resulted in communication getting exponential connectivity being there, interaction taking place, airports number being doubled, and most of it being in the pipeline also. It’s a great place but challenging in several ways also when it comes to infrastructure development. 

    One thing is for sure North-East is on the radar of the nation’s development. North-East is a significant contributor to India’s unity economic progress, cultural essence and it is because of this policy of the present government that when I attended ASEAN for the first time as Vice President, there was a keen interest in several countries of that region and it was fructifying. When I talked about the impact we are having, I can tell you things are in the right frame but some of us out of ignorance or being ill-informed do not appreciate what a nation is. 

    A nation is not divisible as to who has how many roads, how many dams, how many airports. We are one whole, this is our identity. It’s an identity that has survived in spite of the nation having been assaulted from outside on a number of occasions in the last several hundred years. Therefore, boys and girls, the mantle is on you. The onus is on you. Be informed. 

    Thanks to technological advancement, thanks to disruptive technologies, everyone now has a right of expression. An expression which earlier was captive of newspapers, TV channels expression otherwise could not find a way in the public domain. Suddenly we find we can ourselves be the epicentre of expression but can we afford to be loose cannons, ignoring our basic commitment to our nation? Can we allow on public platforms free fall of information that has no factual foundation? Let me come to the state of the nation today. The entire world is in admiration of Bharat, its economy, its prosperity, its innovation, its human resource, its creativity.

    They can’t believe that a nation of 1.4 billion people has internet connectivity virtually in every village, electricity in every house. The day is not far when every house will have tap water. These are big things but these big-ticket accomplishments are a ground reality. Therefore, boys and girls, you are much luckier than us. You are really lucky to be living in a land that is known as Bharat. Which other country can rival in our cultural wealth? No other country. Which country can claim to be a repository of knowledge, wisdom as our Bharat? 

    I therefore beseech our young friends that when we are destined to be a developed nation in 2047, you are the most vital contributors. You are the most significant stakeholders, you are drivers of that engine and I have no doubt this engine will not fail. 

    Look around, if there is heaven,it is in india. If there is heavenly spirit, it is in Meghalaya. Boys and girls, I am leaving this place with full confidence, with certainty that Bharat that is on the rise at the moment and the rise is unstoppable. This rise no one can impede, I am optimistic because I see your potential. I can read your intent, I know you will exploit all your energy to make this nation great. Make yourself a worthy citizen and make your families and teachers ever proud. I am indeed privileged to be part of this unique program.

    Thank you so much.

    ****

    JK/SM

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