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Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bennet, Hickenlooper Introduce Public Lands Legislation to Protect Gunnison Basin and Surrounding Regions

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Colorado Michael Bennet
    Washington, D.C. — Colorado U.S. Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper introduced the Gunnison Outdoor Resources Protection (GORP) Act to permanently protect key portions of the Gunnison Basin and the surrounding regions through a variety of public land management tools, including special designations focused on recreation, wildlife, scientific research, and conservation. 
    The bill is based on over a decade of collaboration with local governments, Tribes, and public lands user groups. It has the bipartisan support of six counties in Western Colorado, as well as the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe and local municipalities. A wide variety of local businesses and public lands user groups, including summer and winter motorized recreation, conservation, mountain biking, whitewater recreation, rock climbers, ranchers, water users, and hunters and anglers, also support the bill. 
    “For over a decade, Coloradans have come together at trailheads and kitchen tables to share their love for the spectacular landscape in and around Gunnison County,” said Bennet. “This bill proves that people with wide-ranging interests can forge compromise and develop a common vision to protect our public lands for future generations.”
    “Adventurers across Colorado and the country come to the Gunnison Basin for its rugged canyons and untamed wilderness,” said Hickenlooper. “Protecting these additional 730,000 acres will help keep it that way for generations.”
    “Land is very important to the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe and throughout history we have lost a lot of land that has been taken from the tribe unjustly,” said Manuel Heart, Chairman Ute Mountain Ute Tribe. “To get land back for the tribe by putting it into Trust status as this legislation does, is important to the tribe’s children and grandchildren. The Ute Mountain Ute Tribe appreciates Senator Bennet’s work on the GORP Act, supports the legislation and hopes it will move forward quickly in the US Senate.” 
    “Colorado’s great outdoors are known around the world and this bill marks a valuable step in the need to protect the incredible Gunnison Basin for future generations of Coloradans and visitors,” said Colorado Governor Jared Polis. “I appreciate Senator Bennet’s leadership on this issue and look forward to seeing this bill move forward.”
    “As a former resident of the Gunnison Valley and Western Colorado University graduate, I am intimately aware of the importance public lands, wildlife and outdoor recreation are to local communities’ economy and environment,” said Dan Gibbs, Executive Director, Colorado Department of Natural Resources. “Our forests, water, wildlife and open spaces are some of our most precious natural resources and outdoor recreation drives visitors and residents to our state to enjoy our diverse opportunities. I commend the work of Senator Bennet and the many diverse stakeholders on developing the locally driven Gunnison Outdoor Resources Protection Act. Introduction is a great first step and I look forward to working alongside all interested parties as this legislation makes its way through the U.S. Congress.”
    “The GORP Act reflects the way we do business in Gunnison County: we sit down with our neighbors to find common-ground solutions and a way forward to best serve our community. Public lands are our backyard here and I’m proud of the work we’ve done to bring so many stakeholders – snowmobilers, ranchers, mountain bikers, and conservationists to name a few – together,” said Jonathan Houck, Gunnison County Commissioner. “While GORP started in Gunnison County, I couldn’t be happier to stand with five neighboring Western Slope counties in support of this legislation, and I thank Senator Bennet for listening to our communities.”
    “Delta County is glad to have worked with Senator Bennet on the GORP Act,” said the Delta County Commissioners. “Its provisions for Delta County will provide public access to a boat ramp, ensure that the BLM can continue to permit existing motorized boat use, and bring forward a thoughtful balance of uses on public lands in the North Fork Valley. This legislation shows what’s possible when we roll up our sleeves and work together.”
    “The Saguache County Board of Commissioners are pleased to support the introduction of Senator Bennet’s Gunnison Outdoor Resources Protection Act (GORP), and eagerly anticipate the passing of this legislation,” said the Saguache County Commissioners. “We appreciate the multi years the many stakeholders have committed to this project.”
    “Pitkin County Is a strong supporter of public lands, and we believe in designating new Wilderness areas in sensitive landscapes, where appropriate,” said Greg Poschman, Chairman, Pitkin County Board of Commissioners. “We are incredibly grateful to Senator Bennet for his work on the GORP Act, and we look forward to celebrating the two proposed Wilderness designations in Colorado’s wild and pristine high country.”
    “Hinsdale County was proud to have collaborated with Senator Bennet, Gunnison County and Ouray County on the GORP Act,” said Kristie Borchers, Chair, Hinsdale County Board of County Commissioners. “We are excited that a key portion of the scenic Cimarron area where Hinsdale, Ouray and Gunnison County come together will be protected by this legislation. This bill will help protect our watersheds and the landscapes that attract the visitors who help drive our mountain town economies in the San Juan Mountains. We look forward to seeing the GORP Act move forward in Congress.”
    “The GORP Act sets the bar for collaborative and beneficial legislation,” said Lynn Padgett, Vice-Chair, Ouray County Board of County Commissioners. “I am forever grateful to Senator Bennet and his team and stakeholders like Gunnison, Hinsdale, and Ouray Counties for enthusiastically working together to include the proposed Uncompahgre Wilderness expansion and especially for protecting Turret Ridge. The peaks of the Cimarron range are unique in their scenery and geology. The GORP Act not only protects important migration areas for elk and key habitats for lynx and moose. The GORP Act protects our precious wildlands, vital to our local economy and quality of life.”
    “Our groups have worked for nearly a decade to craft a vision for public lands in and around Gunnison County that will benefit our economy, environment, and quality of life into the future,” said members of the Gunnison Public Lands Initiative in a joint statement. “The GORP Act reflects the countless hours we spent working together and with communities around the Gunnison Basin. We are eager to see this thoughtful and well-vetted legislation signed into law.”
    Background
    The GORP Act will protect over 730,000 acres of public lands in Western Colorado, safeguarding the region’s local economy, world-class recreation, ranching heritage, wildlife habitat, and clean air and water. The bill also includes provisions for recreational boating in Delta County and at the request of the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, transfers the Pinecrest Ranch from fee ownership to trust ownership. 
    Senator Bennet drafted the GORP Act at the request of Gunnison County and based on a proposal from the Gunnison Public Lands Initiative. The bill also reflects the input from surrounding counties and feedback Senator Bennet received during a public comment period held in 2022. 
    The text of the bill is available HERE. Maps of the areas designated by the bill are HERE. A summary of the bill is HERE. You can find additional information, including support letters and answers to frequently asked questions on the GORP Act website HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lee Targets Privacy Loophole with Student Voter Data Protection Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Utah Mike Lee
     
    WASHINGTON – Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced the Student Voter Data Protection Act, a bill to safeguard the personal data of college students from being exploited for partisan voter registration efforts. This legislation amends the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) to explicitly prohibit students’ private information from being shared without their consent for voter registration drives. Senator Eric Schmitt (R-MO) is an original co-sponsor of the bill.
    In recent years, colleges and universities nationwide have participated in the National Study of Learning, Voting, and Engagement (NSLVE), which compels institutions to hand over students’ FERPA-protected data. This data is then passed through the National Student Clearinghouse (NSC) and shared with third-party voter processing companies. Without student consent, these companies match student information with voter databases, returning lists of voters and non-voters to participating schools.
    “College students’ personal data should not be handed over to partisan organizations under the guise of civic engagement,” said Senator Lee. “These practices violate federal privacy laws, and my bill will close the loopholes that allow institutions to disregard the consent of their students.”
    The Student Voter Data Protection Act would amend FERPA to ensure that universities cannot share students’ personally identifiable information for voter registration activities unless the student gives explicit consent. The legislation responds to ongoing concerns that organizations like Civic Nation, an affiliate of the Obama Foundation, are using this data to target student voters with left-leaning get-out-the-vote efforts.
    Key Provisions of the Bill:
    Amends FERPA to explicitly prevent universities from sharing student data without consent for voter registration purposes.
    Ensures that voter registration efforts do not exploit students’ private information for partisan gain.
    Protects college students from being targeted based on their voting history or registration status.
    The introduction of the Student Voter Data Protection Act follows concerns that the NSLVE initiative has been used to create a voter profile of students, often without their knowledge or consent, to fuel politically motivated campaigns. By tightening FERPA protections, the Student Voter Data Protection Act seeks to preserve the integrity of student privacy and ensure that educational institutions adhere to federal privacy laws.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell, Collins Release GAO Report Revealing Federal Government is Ill-Equipped to Handle Cost of Climate Change

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell
    09.26.24
    Cantwell, Collins Release GAO Report Revealing Federal Government is Ill-Equipped to Handle Cost of Climate Change
    Conservative estimates find climate impacts will cost federal government many trillions of dollars
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) published a new report requested by Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, and Senator Susan Collins (R-ME), Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, on the economic impacts of climate change to the federal government.
    The report, titled Climate Resilience: Congressional Action Needed to Enhance Climate Economics Information and to Limit Federal Fiscal Exposure, warns that “Available estimates indicate significant projected costs to the economy and the federal government as a result of climate change,” and that “the federal government is currently not well-organized to manage this reality.”
    “This bipartisan request to GAO to ask how much taxpayers are at risk has revealed we have big exposure.  We already know we are being buffeted by more frequent wildfires, shrinking snowpacks, coastal erosion, and harmful ocean acidification. This report makes clear that Congress should act to limit the U.S. government’s alarming fiscal exposure due to the intensifying impacts of climate change,” Sen. Cantwell said.
    “In Maine, our economy is inextricably linked to the environment. From rising sea levels to warming waters to damaging storms, the impacts of climate change are already threatening our working waterfronts and coastal communities,” said Sen. Collins. “This nonpartisan GAO report Senator Cantwell and I requested contains astonishing numbers about the cost of climate-related weather events to the federal government. These findings support the need for a coordinated plan by the federal government to increase climate resiliency efforts and improve reporting of climate-related financial risks.”
    After reviewing agency documents, conducting literature reviews, and interviewing government experts, the GAO discovered that federal agencies currently have little capacity to analyze or report climate-related risks, making it difficult to evaluate potential climate resilience actions or investments the U.S. government could take to lessen future damages and ultimately save taxpayers money.
    GAO’s work on costs to the federal government follows eye-opening analysis last November in the Fifth National Climate Assessment that found the cost of climate damages to the entire U.S. economy from extreme weather events is already $1.5 trillion per decade. This number is a conservative estimate that does not account for loss of life, health care-related costs, or damages to ecosystem services noted the authors, which include federal science agencies whose assessment was reviewed by external experts and required by statute.
    GAO’s report identified six key sectors of great financial risk to the federal government due to the projected impacts of climate change: crop insurance, coastal disaster relief, health care expenditures, wildland fire suppression, flood insurance, and sea level rise. By synthesizing scientific and economic analysis across different government and private-sector sources, GAO reported that changes in the first four sectors would cost the federal government an estimated $18 billion annually by midcentury and nearly $69 billion annually by late century. Payouts for flood insurance are estimated to increase by nearly $4 billion per year by 2050, and hurricanes alone are projected to reduce America’s balance sheet by $36 billion per year by 2050 in a high emissions future.

    Additionally, there are more than 160,000 federal buildings in a current 500-year flood plain valued at over $490 billion that are at ever increasing risk of flooding due to climate change, while damages to federal facilities due to sea level rise may be even worse. GAO noted that these sectors are not comprehensive and climate change has many other significant impacts, including falling tax revenues due to decreased real estate values, household income, and business revenues.

    This report builds on an October 2017 GAO report requested by Senators Cantwell and Collins on the costs of climate change to the federal government.
    The full 2024 GAO report can be found HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Deputy Secretary-General’s remarks at the opening segment of the high-level meeting on antimicrobial resistance [as delivered]

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    President of the General Assembly, President of EOCSOC, Excellencies, Dear Colleagues,

    I welcome this opportunity to address the critical issue of antimicrobial resistance.

    I thank His Excellency Mr. Francois Jackman and Her Excellency Ms. Vanessa Frazier, for their unwavering efforts to shine the spotlight and bring Member States together around this important agenda.

    Our deep appreciation goes to Her Excellency Prime Minister Mia Mottley, for her steadfast and personal leadership as chair of the Antimicrobial Resistance Global Leaders’ Group.

    Dear Colleagues,

    AMR is a complex, and an existential danger. The World Health Organization has named AMR as one of the top ten threats to global health and development.

    It has profound implications for the environment, for food security, animal health, and human health.

    Already, AMR is directly responsible for 1.3 million deaths a year. One in five are children. Without a step-change in action before 2030, anti-microbial resistance will reduce global life expectancy by almost two years.

    These are not just numbers; they represent lives that are lost, families that are shattered, and futures that are stolen. The worst is that they are preventable tragedies.

    AMR is a major challenge to sustainable development.

    This is a crisis that costs the world an estimated US$ 800 billion a year in healthcare costs and productivity losses and that threatens to reverse decades of medical progress.

    It is deeply intertwined with poverty, food and nutrition insecurity, environmental degradation, inadequate water and sanitation, and a lack of access to essential health services and medicines. Vulnerable populations worldwide, particularly in the Global South, shoulder the heaviest burden of the AMR crisis.

    Addressing anti-microbial resistance is a health, a socio-economic, and an environmental necessity. It is equally a moral imperative.

    Excellencies, Friends,

    We must take a One Health response and tackle this crisis as a whole.  And move to the sustainable use and production of antimicrobials, preserving these extraordinary medicines for generations to come.

    The Political Declaration from the first High-level Meeting on AMR in 2016 was a crucial step, which generated significant momentum.

    Since then, over 90% of countries now have multisectoral national plans to combat AMR. The path forward is clear. 

    But countries face obstacles in implementation. Chief among them, is finance. The vast majority lack dedicated funding to address gaps and make corrective actions where needed. And this must change. The institutions and capacities must be primed to deliver an effective cross-sector and multi-level
    response, from grassroot and community to national, regional, and global levels. 

    It also will be vital to engage partners across the board: from the private sector and civil society, to farmer’s associations and consumers, to patients and practitioners, given the multi-dimensional nature of the crisis.

    Let me also underscore the importance of the research community that must be a partner of first choice. For without science, we will surely lose the battle. This is essential.  

    Excellencies,

    The political declaration today paves the way for a robust response to AMR.

    I am calling on Member States to be bold in implementing it. With actions that are inclusive, equitable, and coordinated. 

    Actions that target sustainable and diversified financing of the AMR response.

    And actions that support health systems that address the needs of all populations for safe and nutritious food, fresh air and clean water, particularly in the Global South.

    As we stand in solidarity today, let us elevate the political significance of the AMR challenge, reignite the urgency, work together to deliver its benefits for people and for our planet.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: ATR Expands “Renewed in America” Electronics on Amazon: A Call to Action for Sustainable Living and Local Job Creation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PENSACOLA, Fla., Sept. 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Advanced Technology Recycling (ATR), a national leader in sustainable electronics recycling and IT asset management, is proud to announce the expansion of our “Renewed in America” product line on Amazon Marketplaces. This new collection of high-quality refurbished electronics offers consumers an eco-friendly alternative to buying new, all while supporting local job creation and reducing environmental impact.

    Why Buying Renewed is Better than Buying New

    “Purchasing renewed electronics is not just a smart choice for your wallet—it’s a responsible choice for the planet. By choosing renewed over new, consumers are directly contributing to a circular economy, where valuable materials are reused rather than discarded. This prevents thousands of tons of e-waste from ending up in landfills and helps reduce the energy consumption and raw material extraction required to produce new electronics.

    Renewed electronics, such as those offered by ATR, are rigorously tested to meet R2v3 standards—the most stringent certification in the electronics refurbishment industry. Every product is carefully evaluated, repaired, tested, and warrantied in the U.S. to ensure peak performance and longevity, offering the same reliability as new products at a fraction of the cost,” said Carrie Brockett – Amazon eCommerce Manager

    Local Job Creation Through Product Renewal

    Beyond the environmental benefits, ATR’s “Renewed in America” program is also an engine for job creation across the United States. Our renewal processes are conducted entirely within the U.S., creating skilled jobs in refurbishment, quality testing, logistics, and distribution. By purchasing a renewed product, consumers are supporting American workers and contributing to the growth of local economies.

    These jobs are a critical part of a more sustainable future, as they help divert electronics from landfills and ensure these devices are given a second life. From engineers who test and repair equipment to logistics teams who manage fast delivery across the nation, every renewed product purchased helps keep people employed in high-skill positions that contribute to sustainability efforts.

    Environmental Impact and U.S. Sustainability Efforts

    The environmental advantages of choosing renewed products extend far beyond waste reduction. By purchasing ATR’s “Renewed in America” products, consumers also help decrease the carbon emissions associated with manufacturing and shipping new electronics. The extraction of raw materials like rare earth metals and the production of new devices are energy-intensive processes that contribute to global warming. Renewing electronics minimizes this impact, conserving resources and energy.

    When consumers buy from ATR, they’re not only making a responsible environmental choice but also actively participating in a movement that supports sustainability initiatives and helps companies across the U.S. meet their environmental goals.

    Get Involved: Make a Difference with Your Purchases

    ATR invites you to explore our new storefront on Amazon, where you will find an extensive selection of high-quality, warrantied electronics at unbeatable prices. By choosing renewed products, you’re joining a community of consumers who care about protecting the environment, supporting American jobs, and reducing the harmful effects of e-waste.

    With each purchase, you’re helping to build a more sustainable future—one that relies on renewal and reuse rather than overconsumption.

    Visit Our Store on Amazon to receive an additional discount off our already low prices: https://www.amazon.com/promocode/A1HUNT9APNH0D1

    About Advanced Technology Recycling (ATR):
    ATR is a certified R2v3 company and a national leader in sustainable electronics recycling and IT asset management. We provide secure, certified recycling and refurbishment services for businesses, government entities, and consumers. Our “Renewed in America” products help protect the environment while supporting local jobs and the U.S. economy.

    The MIL Network –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Rachel Kyte appointed as the UK’s Special Representative for Climate

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Rachel Kyte will support ministers to increase senior international diplomatic engagement on climate and clean energy.

    Foreign Secretary David Lammy and Energy Secretary of State Ed Miliband have announced Rachel Kyte as the UK’s Special Representative for Climate. The role, previously left vacant for over a year, has been re-appointed under this administration as part of our ambitions to restore the UK’s role as an international leader on the climate.

    Ms Kyte is Professor of Practice in Climate Policy at the Blavatnik School of Government, University of Oxford and dean emerita of the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University. She has extensive international climate experience with previous roles including Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General and CEO of Sustainable Energy for All, World Bank Group Vice President and Special Envoy for Climate Change as well as Vice President for Sustainable Development at the World Bank and for Business Advisory Services at the International Finance Corporation.

    The announcement was made in New York in the margins of a discussion on ‘Accelerating Deployment of Clean Power: Building a Global Clean Power Alliance’, an event hosted by the Foreign Secretary and Energy Secretary.

    Foreign Secretary David Lammy said:

    We cannot address the urgency of the climate and nature crisis without coordinated global action. This government is committed to boosting the UK’s climate leadership. Rachel Kyte will bring invaluable expertise and experience as we work together with partners to drive the energy transition, support those most vulnerable to the worst impacts of the climate crisis and meet the objectives of the Paris Agreement.

    Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:

    Climate change is the defining issue of our time. The governments mission for clean power by 2030 is about protecting energy security for families and businesses at home, whilst also driving global action to provide climate security for our future generations.

    Rachel’s expertise will be invaluable in unlocking climate finance and supporting countries on the front line of the crisis – backing that strong action at home with leadership on the international stage.

    Rachel Kyte said:

    This government is committed to reconnecting the UK to the world with climate action as a priority.  And the world is being shaped politically and economically by climate change.

    This provides an opportunity to use international action to help deliver on the UK’s energy mission. And it provides challenges, not least in mobilizing the financing to protect people and drive greener growth. There is no time like now for the UK to help drive action and I am excited to play my part in this new role.

    The UK Special Representative for Climate role will support ministers to increase senior international diplomatic engagement on climate and clean energy, increasing UK international leadership, building influence, raising global ambition and accelerating progress on UK strategic climate objectives. A joint role between the FCDO and DESNZ, Ms Kyte will report to both the Foreign Secretary and Energy Secretary.

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    Updates to this page

    Published 26 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Joint statement by France, the United States of America, Australia, Canada, the European Union, Germany, Italy, Japan, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom and Qatar.

    MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

    The situation between Lebanon and Israel since October 8, 2023 is intolerable and poses an unacceptable risk of broader regional escalation. This is in no one’s interest, neither the Israeli people nor the Lebanese people.

    It is time to reach a diplomatic settlement that allows civilians on both sides of the border to return safely to their homes.

    Diplomacy cannot prevail in the midst of this escalating conflict.

    We therefore call for an immediate 21-day ceasefire along the Lebanese-Israeli border, to allow room for diplomacy to reach a diplomatic settlement in line with United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701 (UNSCR 1701), and the implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2735 (UNSCR 2735) regarding a ceasefire in Gaza.

    We call on all parties, including the governments of Israel and Lebanon, to immediately endorse the temporary ceasefire in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 1701 during this period, and to give a real chance to a diplomatic settlement.

    We are therefore ready to fully support all diplomatic efforts to conclude an agreement between Lebanon and Israel during this period, building on the efforts of the last few months, in order to put a definitive end to this crisis.

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Joint statement by Emmanuel Macron, President of the Republic, and Joe Biden, President of the United States of America.

    MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

    It is time to reach a settlement on the Israeli-Lebanese border that guarantees security and allows civilians to return to their homes.

    The exchanges of fire that have taken place since October 7, and particularly over the past two weeks, threaten to widen the conflict and harm civilians.

    That is why we have been working together in recent days on a joint call for a temporary ceasefire to give diplomacy a chance to succeed and avoid further escalation on both sides of the border.

    The declaration we negotiated is now endorsed by the United States, Australia, Canada, the European Union, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and Qatar. We call for broad adherence and immediate support from the governments of Israel and Lebanon.

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Interview with Mahmoud Abbas, President of the Palestinian Authority.

    MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

    The President of the Republic met with the President of the Palestinian Authority, Mr. Mahmoud Abbas, this Wednesday, September 25, 2024, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

    The President of the Republic first expressed his most sincere condolences to the President of the Palestinian Authority and to the Palestinian people in the face of the intolerable human toll among the civilian populations in Gaza and the West Bank.

    The President of the Republic subsequently welcomed the adoption by the UNGA of the Palestinian resolution on the ICJ advisory opinion on the illegality of the Israeli occupation, which France fully supported. He specified that Israeli colonization was a violation of international law that hindered any diplomatic solution and that must end as soon as possible. France remains determined to adopt new sanctions against violent settlers, in conjunction with its partners.

    The Head of State also reminded President Abbas that France’s priority remained obtaining an immediate and lasting ceasefire in Gaza, stating that this was the only possible way to free the hostages, protect the populations, allow unhindered access for humanitarian flows through all crossing points to civilian populations and work towards a political solution. He specified that only the two-state solution was capable of bringing a just and lasting peace to the Palestinians and the Israelis and of guaranteeing peace and security for all in the region. France continues to work on this with all the partners of the Arab Contact Group and with its international partners.

    In this context, the President of the Republic reiterated France’s full support for a strengthened and reformed Palestinian Authority, capable of exercising its responsibilities over all the Palestinian Territories, including Gaza. In this regard, he welcomed the formation of a new government and the work it has already accomplished in this regard. He also specified that he was passing on continuous messages to the Israeli Prime Minister so that Israel stops obstructing the transfer of revenues from the Palestinian Authority, which hinders the proper functioning of the Palestinian government.

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Joint statement from France and Kenya.

    MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

    France and Kenya have agreed to jointly host the Africa-France Summit in 2026 in Nairobi. This decision was confirmed by the President of the Republic and the President of the Republic of Kenya, Mr. William RUTO, during a meeting held this Wednesday, September 25 in New York, on the sidelines of the high-level week of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

    The Africa-France Summit 2026 will focus on solutions to address climate-related challenges, environmental preservation and the reform of the international financial architecture, topics on which the two heads of state are strongly committed. The Summit will also seek to encourage inclusive multilateralism, in line with the Paris Pact for People and the Planet and the Nairobi Declaration adopted at the end of the African Climate Summit.

    This summit will bring together political authorities from the African continent and representatives from civil society and the private sector.

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chair Murray Speaks in Support of Short-term CR, Urges Serious Bipartisan Negotiations of Full-year Funding Bills

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    ICMYI: Senate Appropriations Committee Approves Energy and Water, Defense, LHHS, and Financial Services Appropriations Bills

    ICYMI: Senate Appropriations Committee Approves Commerce-Justice-Science, Interior-Environment, State and Foreign Operations, and Transportation-HUD Appropriations Bills

    ICYMI: Senate Appropriations Committee Approves Subcommittee Allocations, Legislative Branch, Ag-FDA, and Military Construction-VA Bills

    ***WATCH: VIDEO of Senator Murray’s Floor Speech***

    Washington, D.C. – Today U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, spoke on the Senate floor ahead of consideration of the continuing resolution, urging her colleagues to engage in serious bipartisan and bicameral negotiations to pass full-year funding bills before the end of the year.

    Murray’s full remarks, as delivered, are below:

    “Thank you, M. President. I am very pleased we have a straightforward, bipartisan compromise to fund the government, and avoid a pointless, devastating shutdown. I hope every single one of my colleagues will join us in voting to pass this bill.

    “But, M. President, our work does not end here. My hope is that now we can get going in earnest on hammering out bipartisan, full year funding bills—including providing long-overdue disaster assistance. It’s time for Democrats and Republicans to negotiate those bills together—instead of House Republicans just following the loudest voices on the far right.

    “Because M. President, it is getting a little exhausting to watch some House Republicans push again and again for the most extreme, partisan cuts and policies—stuff that is not realistic at all—before learning the same lessons the hard way—yet again.

    “You cannot strike a deal to govern with people who do not really want to govern. You can’t avoid a shutdown trying to placate the people who want a shutdown.

    “But—here’s the important thing—you do not have to waste time trying. If you are serious about governing—you do not have to let a few extreme House Republicans set the agenda, or let Donald Trump call the shots.

    “There is a better way. And I know, because it is the path that we’ve been following here in the Senate. Vice Chair Collins and I passed 11 funding bills out of Committee with overwhelming bipartisan support.

    “We negotiated strong bills, that could actually be signed into law, and would make a real difference for folks back at home. We did it by listening to each other, listening to folks back home, rejecting partisan policies, and focusing on how we set our nation and families up for success.

    “That is the same approach I hope we can now take, now that this CR gives us the time we need to negotiate bipartisan, bicameral, full year bills.

    “M. President, I know that compromise takes time and hard work—I have hammered out many tough deals in my time here. But I think we have proven this Congress, many times over, that the path of bipartisanship is far easier—and far more productive—than the dead end MAGA extremism House Republicans keep making their very first priority.

    “So let’s all vote to pass this CR. And then let’s get right to work, in a serious, bipartisan way on full year funding bills, and on meeting the long overdue disaster relief needs of so many of our states and our communities. Thank you.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray Continues Push for All-Hands-On-Deck Effort to Increase Affordable Housing and Address Crisis In Washington State

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    Washington state faces a shortage of nearly 172,000 affordable homes

    Murray has made increasing federal funding to boost housing supply a top priority as Senate Appropriations Chair

    Murray: “The housing crisis is hitting everyone, I hear about this from folks back in Washington state all of the time. We’ve got a long way to go, and a lot of people to help, but to me—the bottom line is more affordable housing.”

    ***WATCH: SENATOR MURRAY’S QUESTIONING HERE***

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member and former Chair of the Senate Budget Committee, spoke at a Budget Committee hearing focused on steps to increase the supply of affordable housing and address the housing crisis. Senator Murray spoke about the work she has done to bring more affordable housing to Washington state, and emphasized that she is continuing to push additional progress—including through her role as chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee.

    “The housing crisis is hitting everyone, I hear about this from folks back in Washington state all of the time. We’ve got a long way to go, and a lot of people to help, but to me—the bottom line is more affordable housing,” said Senator Murray. “So I really believe this is an all-hands-on-deck crisis that requires every level of government to step up to do their part.”

    “On the Senate Appropriations Committee, I was really proud to help create the Pathways to Removing Obstacles to Housing program—or the Yes-In-My-Back Yard program as we originally referred to it—to help identify and remove barriers to producing and preserving affordable housing,” continued Senator Murray. “And we were able to provide $100 million for that program in Fiscal Year 2024—even under the very difficult Fiscal Responsibility Act caps. That is in addition to other important investments the federal government is making to boost supply—the HOME program, Low-Income Housing Tax Credit. But clearly, the current levels of investment are not sufficient—and not moving quickly enough—to meet, really, the urgency of this crisis.

    During her questioning, Senator Murray discussed her long history working to help families get affordable housing, which includes steps like helping create the Pathways to Removing Obstacles program (also known as the “Yes-In-My-Back Yard” grant program), funding the HOME Investment Partnerships program, supporting the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit, and bringing Congressionally Directed Spending back to Washington state for affordable housing efforts. As Chair of the Appropriations Committee, Senator Murray fought hard against Republican efforts to cut housing investments, and ultimately succeeded in protecting affordable housing programs in Fiscal Year 2024, even securing $100 million for the “Yes-In-My-Back Yard” grant program, a $15 million increase over the year prior.

    In the Fiscal Year 2025 housing funding bill Murray passed out of committee this summer, she protected the existing funding level for the “Yes-In-My-Back Yard” grant program and secured a $175 million increase for the HOME Investment Partnerships program to help construct more than 8,400 new affordable homebuyer and rental units—Murray is currently working to pass this bill into law.

    Washington state is facing a housing crisis due to the shortage of affordable housing. According to the National Low Income Housing Coalition, Washington state has a shortage of nearly 172,000 affordable homes, meaning for every 10 extremely low-income Washington state families, there are only about 3 affordable homes.

    In her questions to the witnesses, Senator Murray asked about the most effective steps the federal government can take to support increasing the affordable housing supply, what some of the biggest challenges have been over the last ten years, and how progress made in Democrats’ American Rescue Plan contrasts with Republican proposal for a second Trump Administration, like the drastic housing cuts proposed in Project 2025.

    The full transcript of Senator Murray’s questioning is below:

    MURRAY: The housing crisis is hitting everyone. I’m from Washington state, I hear about it all the time. We’ve got a long way to go, a lot of people to help. But to me—the bottom line is more affordable housing.

    In Washington state we face a shortage of almost 172,000 affordable homes, meaning that for every 10 extremely low-income Washington state families, there’s only 3 affordable homes. So I really believe that this is an all-hands-on-deck crisis that requires every level of government to step up and do their part.

    On the Senate Appropriations Committee, I was really proud to help create the Pathways to Removing Obstacles to Housing program—or the Yes-In-My-Back Yard program as we originally referred to it—to help identify and remove barriers to producing and preserving affordable housing. And we were able to provide $100 million for that program in Fiscal Year 2024—even under the very difficult Fiscal Responsibility Act caps.

    That is in addition to other important investments the federal government is making to boost supply—the HOME program, Low-Income Housing Tax Credit. But clearly, the current levels of investment are not sufficient—and not moving quickly enough—to meet, really, the urgency of this crisis.

    So Mr. Williams—let me start with you—what have been some of the most effective federal interventions to address our housing shortage?

    WILLIAMS: Thank you, Senator. I think the best way to measure our most effective programs is by looking at the number of units of supply that they’ve brought online. So I think in recent decades, the Low Income Housing Tax Credit program is responsible for the most production of new supply of affordable housing. In the very recent past, I’m also very optimistic about the Pathways to Removing Obstacles program, as it’s kind of addressing the issue from a different angle which is encouraging municipalities to remove some of the zoning and permitting obstacles that prevent new housing supply, affordable and market rate housing, from being able to come online. I understand that, I believe Seattle in your state received a Pathways to Removing Obstacles award, and so I’m optimistic that will result in some changes in your state as well. 

    MURRAY: Very good, thank you very much.

    And Ms. Harris, I’m curious what have you seen in building additional housing over the last decade. You’ve seen a lot, how could the federal government better support the kind of work that the Better Housing Coalition is doing?

    HARRIS: Well, thank you Senator. And Mr. Williams is correct, the Low Income Housing Tax Credit program has been extremely effective in allowing us to produce more housing units and also preserve existing affordable housing units. You know the cost of a unit of housing, whether its market rate or affordable, is almost identical and the only way we are able to offer rents at 50, 60, 70 percent off of market rate rents is the capital stack we use by holding our debt down to about 30 percent of the overall development cost versus a market rate development that is somewhere between 70 and 90 percent. The Low Income Housing Tax Credit Equity allows us to do that, and then there’s usually 15 to 20 percent left of gap financing that is needed.

    We’ve used creative things like Capitol Magnet Funds from the CDFI fund, ARPA dollars, in some cases CDBG, and philanthropy to be able to fill those holes and deliver quality housing options for families. The one thing I would say while we’re cobbling together sometimes 12, 13, 14 sources of financing–that adds another 12 to 24 months to the delivery time. And the demand is so high every time we open up a new community, we have four, five times the amount of applications that we have units to help families find quality housing. 

    MURRAY: Thank you very much.

    Mr. Speaker it is an honor to have you here, thank you very much for joining us. I’m curious to ask you because we have heard Donald Trump’s Project 2025 agenda proposes leaving HUD’s responsibilities to states and localities without any federal funding or oversight, and proposes selling off the nation’s public housing stock, which is a critical piece of our country’s affordable housing priorities.

    Here in Congress, we also saw the House Republicans put forward a 2025 budget that would slash HUD funding. So as you’re watching all this from your seat, can you talk a little bit about those kinds of proposals would affect your state’s housing efforts? 

    SHEKARCHI:  Thank you, Senator. It would have a disastrous effect, not only on Rhode Island but on the rest of the country. Look, there are clearly some things we can all agree on which is we need some local zoning reform. But to privatize the public housing sector would exasperate an already existing crisis we have and a shortage. Where are the people who are living in these homes going to go? How are they going to afford to rent them or buy them? It is a very short-sighted solution to a very complex problem. We need both–we need federal subsidies and we need land use reform on a local level, and we need the federal government to step in because the states and the local communities cannot do it alone, Senator.

    So it’s a combination of an effort that would work and you’ll see sustainable progress in affordable housing. Clearly the biggest solution, how we get there we can differ, but is to create more housing. We need more housing at every single level: the market level of housing, the workforce housing, the low income housing, and even homelessness needs more shelters. So you can take your pick as to which one you want to fund or to what degree, but all of them need attention from the federal government and they need to use local reforms to make it easier.

    The private sector will step up and the private sector is ready, willing, and able to build in Rhode Island and probably throughout all 50 states. This is not a red state issue or a blue state issue, this is an every state issue. The private sector will do its part, but we need the federal government as well–we need both to partner, if you will. 

    MURRAY: Thank you very much, I’ve heard the same from my governor and local officials so I really appreciate that.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chair Murray Statement on Bipartisan CR: Urges Swift Passage to Avert Government Shutdown and Finish Full-Year Bills By Year’s End

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    Washington, D.C. – Today U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, issued the following statement on the bipartisan continuing resolution negotiated by all four corners of Congress.

    “This continuing resolution was a bipartisan compromise—let’s get it passed and ensure we avert a needless and disastrous government shutdown. There are so many urgent national priorities that still must be addressed in our full-year funding bills. I will be working closely with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to ensure we get the job done before the end of the year.”

    Text of the continuing resolution can be found HERE.

    A section by section of the continuing resolution can be found HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: RMB, stocks rally amid stimulus

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    The renminbi rallied to its strongest level in more than a year and Chinese equities continued their rebound on Wednesday, after a potent policy package lifted investors’ confidence in the Chinese economy, which is expected to sail through headwinds.

    Economists, investment banks and asset managers said that policymakers’ more decisive stance to shore up the economy, a global interest rate cut cycle, and low asset valuations have combined to make it a potentially good time to invest in Chinese financial assets, which are expected to attract more foreign inflow in the months ahead.

    However, they cautioned that the forecast may be contingent upon the implementation of further policy support to address economic challenges, with the most urgent priorities being additional fiscal spending to bolster domestic demand and direct funding to alleviate property sector woes.

    On Wednesday, the renminbi, or Chinese yuan, rose to 6.9951 against the US dollar in the offshore market, up 158 basis points from the previous close and past the 7-per-dollar milestone for the first time in 16 months.

    Guan Tao, global chief economist at BOCI China, said that the renminbi’s rally is attributable to both Tuesday’s policy release, which strengthened investors’ confidence in China’s economy, and the US Federal Reserve’s interest rate cut last week, which narrowed the yield spreads between US and Chinese bonds.

    Looking ahead, Guan said the renminbi is likely to register two-way fluctuations against the dollar, with limited possibility of one-sided, drastic appreciation because uncertainties remain surrounding the Fed’s pace of rate cuts, including that the Fed might even reconsider rate hikes if the US economy turns out to be overheated.

    Moreover, the People’s Bank of China, the country’s central bank, is expected to take measures to prevent any renminbi exchange rate overshooting if needed, and has accumulated rich experience in this regard, said Guan, who had served as head of the Balance of Payments Department at the State Administration of Foreign Exchange.

    Guan added that in the base case scenario, in which the United States achieves a soft landing while the Fed continues rate cuts, foreign institutions may continue to boost holdings in renminbi-denominated bonds, especially treasury bonds.

    As of August, overseas institutions’ holdings in China’s interbank bond market had risen for 12 consecutive months, an increase in foreign holdings of as much as 1.34 trillion yuan ($190.7 billion), according to the PBOC’s Shanghai head office.

    Upbeat sentiment

    The upbeat sentiment was seen in the A-share market as well. The Shanghai Composite Index went up 1.16 percent to Wednesday’s close of 2,896.31 points, extending a jump of 4.15 percent on Tuesday, the biggest rise in about four years.

    “I believe that this may be a good time to revisit Chinese stocks,” said David Chao, global market strategist for the Asia-Pacific region (excluding Japan) at Invesco, a global investment management company.

    Chao said China has fired off a meaningful monetary stimulus salvo, which may potentially usher trillions of renminbi in liquidity if fully implemented, sending a strong signal that the government is responding to economic headwinds.

    Major package

    On Tuesday, China’s top financial regulators unveiled a set of measures that some analysts said might be the country’s biggest monetary stimulus package following the pandemic.

    This includes a 20 basis point reduction in the seven-day reverse repo rate, a key policy benchmark of interest rates, as well as a 50 basis point cut to rates on existing mortgages and another 50 basis point cut to the reserve requirement ratio, apart from other steps supportive of the property and stock markets.

    The PBOC started to put the package into action by lowering the one-year medium-term lending facility rate, a policy rate, by 30 basis points to 2 percent on Wednesday.

    A Goldman Sachs report said on Wednesday that the latest stimulus package would be strong enough to catalyze a policy-induced rally in shares listed in Hong Kong and on the Chinese mainland, though it would be unlikely to “turn things around fundamentally”.

    The report said a relending program unveiled on Tuesday will allow listed companies to borrow inexpensive money to shore up stock prices and boost investor sentiment, while the stock stabilization fund that is under policy study, if launched, might help fend off systemic risks in the stock market, as indicated by experiences in other markets.

    While the PBOC introduced two new policy tools aimed at boosting stock market liquidity, the China Securities Regulatory Commission released a guideline on Tuesday to encourage mergers and acquisitions and a draft rule to strengthen listed companies’ market capitalization management.

    Yet more could be done, with Goldman Sachs saying that “we would turn more aggressive on A shares when signs of property market stabilization emerge or policy momentum further strengthens”.

    Ding Shuang, chief economist for Greater China and North Asia at Standard Chartered Bank, underlined the importance of beefing up fiscal support, as “monetary easing would be less effective without proactive fiscal policy”.

    It is likely that the government will increase bond issuance to accelerate government spending, Ding said, adding that investor sentiment could improve if policymakers decide to broaden the use of bond proceeds, especially to reduce home inventory.

    Ding said that Standard Chartered Bank analysts retain the base case forecast that the renminbi will stay within the range of between 7 and 7.1 against the dollar by the end of the year.

    MIL OSI China News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: Digital trade in spotlight at global expo

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    The exhibition area of humanoid robots is pictured at the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Greater efforts are needed to strengthen international cooperation in digital trade and to collectively formulate international rules related to such business activity, a sector which has injected new impetus into world economic growth, officials and experts said.

    China is willing to work with other nations to support the deeper application of cutting-edge technologies, promote the balanced development of digital trade in all fields, and help small and medium-sized enterprises worldwide achieve sustainable development through digital and intelligent transformation, said Zheng Jianbang, vice-chairman of the Standing Committee of the 14th National People’s Congress, the country’s top legislature.

    Zheng made the remarks at the launch ceremony of the third Global Digital Trade Expo, which opened in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, on Wednesday.

    He said China has attached great importance to the development of digital trade, which is regarded as one of the three pillars supporting the development of a strong trading nation, alongside trade in goods and services.

    Zheng stressed the need to deepen dialogue and cooperation with other countries in the aspect of governance and to actively take part in the formulation of multilateral, bilateral and regional rules concerning digital trade, so as to create an open, fair, just and nondiscriminatory environment for the development of global digital trade.

    Minister of Commerce Wang Wentao said his ministry will strengthen the construction of digital trade mechanisms, promote high-standard opening-up, and work with all parties to build digital trade into a new engine for common development, ultimately injecting new momentum into global economic growth.

    Wang said more than 400 new products and technologies are being showcased during the expo, while a future-oriented industry exhibition area has been set up for the first time, demonstrating cutting-edge technologies in fields such as artificial intelligence.

    Featuring Kazakhstan and Thailand as guests of honor, the expo, with the theme of “Digital Trade, Global Access”, has attracted more than 1,500 companies from 32 countries and regions, with more than 30,000 professional buyers having registered for the event, including over 6,000 overseas buyers.

    Digital trade in China has made remarkable progress in recent years. Data from the Ministry of Commerce showed that China’s import and export of digitally-delivered service trade rose 3.7 percent year-on-year to 1.42 trillion yuan ($202.2 billion) in the first six months of 2024, a record-high.

    Moreover, the country’s cross-border e-commerce imports and exports reached 1.22 trillion yuan in the first half of the year, an increase of 10.5 percent year-on-year, according to the General Administration of Customs.

    Yi Lianhong, Party secretary of Zhejiang province, said the province will accelerate the building of industrial chains of digital trade, vigorously develop new business models such as digital product trade and digital service trade, ease market access in the digital domain, and bolster safe cross-border data flows.

    Zhaslan Madiyev, minister of Digital Development, Innovation and Aerospace Industry of Kazakhstan, said the expo provides an unique opportunity to showcase innovative technologies, products and ecosystems in global digital trade, while offering an open forum for exploring new markets and fostering opportunities for economic and trade collaboration.

    Kazakhstan has established strong cooperation relations with major Chinese e-commerce platforms like Alibaba and JD, further strengthening its role in the global digital trade arena, while Chinese delivery company YTO Express is partnering with Kazakhstan to build the largest e-commerce logistics center in Central Asia, he noted.

    He added that his country looks forward to further deepening its collaboration with China in areas such as logistics, digital trade and the creation of new technological hubs.

    This photo taken on Sept. 25, 2024 shows the China Pavilion at the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

    People visit the Silk Road E-commerce Zone during the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    People visit the Kazakhstan Pavilion at the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    People visit the Thailand Pavilion at the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Dunedin Hospital d-listed by Government

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    The non-announcement in Dunedin today had Ministers leaving broken promises and a likely severely diluted hospital build in their wake.

    “The Government’s attempt to placate the people of Dunedin has fallen short. Instead of flying down to announce they’d build the planned hospital, they’ve spent a bunch of money on another review that won’t mean any more hospital beds,” Tracey McLellan said.

    “Under National, the Dunedin Hospital plans are a sterling disappointment. The project, which Labour began and funded, has been downgraded despite silver-tongued promises National made to get into Government.

    “Labour’s fully costed project had the budget allocated to pay for it, was bigger, and had additional capacity for mental health and MRI facilities. National are potentially content with simply giving the old building a makeover.

    “While Health Minister Shane Reti mucks around value managing and adding a new review to a project that has already undergone several, the costs go up, consultants stand around waiting, and the credibility of National to deliver the hospital goes down.

    “The ministers’ attempts to pit the region against the rest of the country when it is the Government’s own fault health is not funded adequately was in poor taste today.

    “Our regions shouldn’t have to compete with each other for decent health services. The choice for the government was measly tax cuts and a $2.9 billion tax break for landlords over health.

    “There are 20 projects on a national red list which are without adequate funding according to media reports today. The Dunedin region is the first, but communities, cities and towns nationwide will go without healthcare facilities because of National,” Tracey McLellan said.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Govt set to break promise on Dunedin Hospital

    Source: Green Party

    The Green Party is calling on the Government to honour its promise to Dunedin and build its new hospital to full capacity. 

    “Failing to build the hospital to what was promised would be a complete betrayal and an utter kick in the guts for Dunedin,” says the Green Party Spokesperson for Dunedin Issues, Scott Willis.

    “Healthcare is a human right and something Dunedin deserves. We need to invest in our health system so it’s fit to cater to the needs of all of our communities.

    “The current Government is failing to invest in a health system on its knees, putting priority on trickle-down tax cuts for the already wealthy. Yet for years Dunedin’s health system has struggled with chronic staff shortages, equipment shortfalls and facilities not fit for purpose.

    “This Government made a promise during the election, pledging to build a new Dunedin Hospital to modern standards – now this looks set to be broken as the Government offers mealy-mouthed excuses. The Coalition is clearly trying to worm away from its promise to our community.

    “Right now, the need for a fully equipped hospital in Dunedin couldn’t be more critical. Dunedin deserves a new hospital, and deserves so much more than this Government. 

    “The Government is undermining our health system to fund trickle-down tax cuts. The health of our people must come before the pockets of the wealthy. 

    “I look forward to joining the local community this Saturday as we march for the Dunedin hospital and our health services,” says Scott Willis.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Registration for the VII Medical Tournament of Schoolchildren has begun

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    Registration ends November 24, 2024, and uploading of solutions for the Selection Round ends December 1, 2024.

    Participation in the Schoolchildren’s Medical Tournament is a great opportunity for schoolchildren and future applicants to get in touch with medicine, learn how to select reliable information, work in a team, and immerse themselves in an environment of like-minded people.

    — Our goal is to teach schoolchildren to work with scientific information, improve their public speaking skills, teach them to speak in public, and develop communication skills, give them the opportunity to communicate with our experts, who are practicing top-category doctors. And, of course, to give an idea of modern medicine, to show how complex and interesting it is at the same time, — shared Evgeniya Kholdina, head of the Expert and Methodological Commission.

    The final stage will take place on March 21-24, 2025 at NSU.

    Winning a prize and winning the final stage gives additional points for admission to NSU in the direction of “General Medicine”.

    Detailed information:

    VK:https://vk.com/schoolmedturn

    Telegram channel:https://t.te/shoolmedturn

    Website:https://vvv.shoolmedturn.ru/

    The project is implemented with the support of Rosmolodezh.Grants

    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://vvv.nsu.ru/n/media/nevs/education/registration-for-the-vii-medical-tournament-schoolchildren has begun/

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Cline Recognizes Harrisonburg Business for Being Awarded DOL’s HIRE Vets Medallion

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ben Cline (VA-06)

    CategoriesMIL OSI

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    Congressman Ben Cline (VA-06) has been awarded the Guardian of Small Business Award for the 118th Congress by the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), the nation’s leading small business advocacy organization. NFIB’s Guardian of Small Business Award is reserved for lawmakers who vote consistently with small businesses on key issues identified by small business owners. “I am truly ho… Read More »

    Congressman Ben Cline (VA-06) recently toured the Valley Health Winchester Medical Center, where he was briefed on Valley Health’s upcoming projects. Guided by Kris Maddalena, Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer, Congressman Cline received an in-depth tour of the facility. During his visit, Valley Health honored him with an award recognizing his leadership, dedication, and support for patient… Read More »

    Winchester, VA – Yesterday, Congressman Ben Cline concluded his three-day healthcare tour across Virginia’s Sixth District. Throughout the tour, he visited various healthcare facilities, engaging with dedicated professionals and witnessing firsthand the vital efforts of hospitals, clinics, and organizations committed to delivering quality care in our communities. “This Healthcare tour has been an … Read More »

    Yesterday, Congressman Ben Cline continued his three-day healthcare tour across Virginia’s Sixth District, building on the momentum from Tuesday’s kickoff in Roanoke. On Wednesday, he visited additional healthcare facilities, engaging with professionals and examining the vital efforts of hospitals, clinics, and organizations committed to providing quality care in the community. “The tour has been … Read More »

    Yesterday, Congressman Ben Cline kicked off the first day of his comprehensive three-day Sixth District Healthcare tour, visiting key healthcare facilities on Tuesday in Roanoke. The tour will take Congressman Cline to various communities across Virginia’s Sixth Congressional District, where he will engage with healthcare professionals and explore the work of hospitals, clinics, and organizations … Read More »

    James Madison University | JMU Office of Federal Relations and Communications HARRISONBURG, Va. – Congressman Ben Cline visited the JMU School of Nursing Wednesday to receive feedback from students in the online doctoral program and to tour the school’s labs and classrooms. The congressman, whose 6th District covers western areas of Virginia from Roanoke to Winchester, became interested in touring… Read More »

    WSLS | Connor Dietrich ROANOKE, Va. – Rep. Ben Cline is taking time to recognize some of the everyday heroes in the Roanoke Valley. On Monday, Cline stopped by Roanoke Fire-EMS’s station one to honor Capt. Peter Matthiessen. The fire captain is one of the head organizers of the annual Roanoke 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. “You’re truly just an amazing credit to this community and it’s an honor to get… Read More »

    The Virginian Review | Rebecca Stalnaker COVINGTON, Va. (VR) — Congressman Ben Cline will visit the Virginian Review office on Aug. 1 at 3 p.m. to present a special plaque commemorating the paper’s 110-year anniversary. The visit will honor the publication’s long-standing contribution to the community and recognize its significant milestone. During his visit, Cline will formally present a plaque t… Read More »

    Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Ben Cline (R-VA) released the following statement regarding President Joe Biden dropping out of the presidential race. “The undeniable truth is that Joe Biden’s mental incapacity forced him out of the race, rendering him unfit for the presidency,” Rep. Ben Cline said. “If Biden can’t handle running a campaign, he can’t handle holding the highest office. Biden’s … Read More »

    Roanoke, VA – Following the attempted assassination of President Donald Trump on Saturday in Pennsylvania, Congressman Ben Cline condemned the terrible attack and called for national unity in rejecting political violence. This violent act is unacceptable, and completely goes against the fundamental values of our nation. “Our thoughts and prayers are with President Trump, his family, and the victim… Read More »

    Today, Congressman Ben Cline (R-VA) introduced the No Bias in the Baseline Act to revise the fiscal distortions embedded in the Congressional Budget Office’s (CBO) baseline projections. This legislation will empower Congress with the tools needed to make informed financial decisions and eliminate the baseline bias in the budget process in favor of higher spending. “It is essential that Congress is… Read More »

    Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Ben Cline (R-VA) led his colleagues in a letter to President Joe Biden, demanding that the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Department of Agriculture (USDA) do not move forward with adopting the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) as the minimum energy efficiency standard. In April of this year, HUD and USDA announced the … Read More »

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Ben Cline (R-VA) announced his candidacy to become the next chairman of the Republican Study Committee (RSC). “It’s time to turn the tide on the dangerous path our Nation has been led down by the disastrous policies of the Biden Administration,” Rep. Cline said. “We need a strong, conservative compass to set us back on the right course – one that puts America … Read More »

    Colby Johnson | WHSV HARRISONBURG, Va. (WHSV) – Sixth District Representative Ben Cline was appointed to the House select committee on the Chinese Communist Party. The committee will study and determine the best ways to counter Chinese influence across multiple areas including telecommunications, immigration, foreign affairs issues, and national security. “My specialty coming from the judiciary co… Read More »

    Jon Solomon Reports |Just The News Representative Ben Cline (R-VA) says President Biden’s immigration executive order will do little to nothing to help the dire situation at the southern border, commenting on the amount of loopholes that the order allows is like “trying to catch water with a strainer.” Additional interviews with Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee, National Council of Resistanc… Read More »

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    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Remarks by President  Biden and First Lady Jill  Biden at the United Nations General Assembly Leaders’ Reception | New York,  NY

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    Metropolitan Museum of ArtNew York, New York
    5:49 P.M. EDT
    THE FIRST LADY: Good evening. (Applause.)
    Aren’t all of our U.S. military musicians spectacular? (Applause.) Thank you for all that you — for joining us this evening. It’s great to be with so many friends here.
    For Joe, diplomacy is personal. It’s why, for more than 50 years, he’s created deep personal bonds with world leaders. He shows up for our allies and our partners. He listens and is always eager to debate complex international issues to find common ground.
    Serving as first lady has be- — of the United States is the honor of my life. This is our — (applause). Thank you.
    This is our fi- — our United Nations — our final United Nations General Assembly as president and first lady. So, tonight, I want to take this moment to celebrate Joe and honor the relationships he’s built with all of you — (applause) — to honor these relationships with all of you to shape a brighter future for people around the world.
    Please join me in welcoming my husband, President Joe Biden. (Applause.)
    THE PRESIDENT: (Laughs.) That was worth the trip. (Laughter.)
    Well, welcome, everyone. I’m delighted to see you all. You know, my fellow leaders and friends we’ve honored here, it’s an honor to welcome you here tonight.
    I should start off by saying we owe a special thanks tonight to — to Mayor Bloomberg. He’s not the mayor right now, but he’s still the mayor. (Laughter.) Mr. Mayor, thank you for all you’ve done.
    I want to begin by quoting someone who I wish was here tonight: my mom, Catherine Eugenia Finnegan Biden. (Applause.) Growing up, my mom had an expression. She had a lot of expression. She had a backbone like a ramrod. But my mom, she used to say, “Joey, remember, never bow, never bend, never yield, and never give up.”
    Folks, as I said yesterday at the United Nations, I recognize the challenges the world faces: Ukraine, Gaza, Sudan, Haiti, war, hunger, poverty, climate change. But my message to you tonight is this: We must never, ever, ever bow, bend, yield, or give up. And most importantly, we must never lose faith — lose faith in our abilities to do so much.
    I was first elected to the United States Senate when I was 29 years old, 280 years ago. (Laughter.) Since then, I’ve seen the impossible become — the impossible become reality, for real. I’ve seen the Berlin Wall come down. I’ve seen Poland leave the (inaudible) — I shouldn’t go on, I guess. But I’ve seen apartheid end. I’ve seen humanity pull together to prevent a nuclear war. I’ve seen war criminals and dictators face justice and accountability for human rights violations. And I’ve seen countries in the Middle East make peace. We must always remember.
    In America, I was (inaudible) — I spent a lot of time with Xi of China, and we were in the Tibetan Plateau, and it was one of my 90-some hours alone with him. And he looked at me; he said, “Can you define America for me?” This is an absolutely true story. He said, “Can you define America for me?” I said, “Yes. In one word: possibilities — possibilities.” (Applause.) We believe anything is possible. No, I really mean it. Remember, nothing is impossible.
    And, folks, look, in our time, we turn the page on the — on the — on a whole range of issues. We turned the page. Nothing is impossible, as I said, but we turned the page on the worst pandemic in a century. We defended Ukraine as a tyrant threatened to wipe it off the map. We made the largest investment in history to fight climate change, the existential threat to humanity.
    And, folks, time and again — and I mean this sincerely — time and again, our nation and our world found a way forward. But make no mistake: It didn’t happen by accident. Nothing was inevitable. It took people like all of you assembled here tonight refusing to give up, rejecting the forces that pull us apart, believing that change is possible, and fighting to make it so every single day. That’s what you in this room assembled have done.
    Ladies and gentlemen, that’s our change. Together, we can broker deals, end wars and suffering. We can stop the spread of disease and dangerous weapons alike. We can make AIempower people, not shackle them. We can cut our emissions and achieve our climate ambitions. We can leave our children, literally, a better world.
    That’s our obligation, and we can. We can do this.
    I can say to you — and I mean this sincerely — I’ve never more optimistic in my life because of all of you, and I mean it from the bottom of my heart.
    So, thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Keep it up.
    And every time I’d walk out of my grandpop’s house up in Scranton, he’d yell, “Joey, keep the faith.” My grandmother would go, “No, Joey, spread it.” Spread it. Spread it. Spread it. (Applause.)
    Folks, remember, nothing is beyond our capacity when we work together. Nothing at all.
    So, thank you, thank you, thank you for all you’re doing. I appreciate it very, very much.
    It’s an honor to be with you. Thank you. (Applause.)
    5:54 P.M. EDT

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: September 25th, 2024 Zuni Indian Tribe and Navajo Nation Rio San José Stream System Water Rights Settlements Bills Receive Key Committee Hearing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich
    Before legislative hearing, Heinrich’s bipartisan Indian Buffalo Management Act also advanced out of Senate Committee
    WASHINGTON – Today, the Zuni Indian Tribe Water Rights Settlement Act and the Navajo Nation Rio San José Stream System Water Rights Settlement Act, bills sponsored by U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), received a key hearing before the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs.

    VIDEO: U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich testifies in support of the Zuni Indian Tribe Water Rights Settlement Act and the Navajo Nation Rio San José Stream System Water Rights Settlement Act during a hearing before the U.S. Senate Committee on Indian Affairs onSeptember 25, 2024.
    “The failure of the United States to work with Tribal Governments to ensure that they could use the water they have always owned has reverberated through generations,” said Heinrich. “It has a direct impact on the well-being of Tribal members today. It’s time we make this right for Zuni and the Navajo Nation.”
    Heinrich and U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) introduced the Zuni Indian Tribe Water Rights Settlement Act in July. The bill would unlock federal funding to support a trust for sustainable water management and infrastructure development that upholds the federal government’s trust responsibility while protecting the sacred Zuni Salt Lake. The bill ratifies the settlement between the federal government, State of New Mexico, and Zuni Tribe that affirms their water rights for irrigation, livestock, storage, and domestic and other uses. During the hearing, Zuni Tribe Governor Arden Kucate testified in support of the legislation.
    Heinrich and U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.) introduced the Navajo Nation Rio San José Stream System Water Rights Settlement Act earlier this month to approve the water rights settlement for the Navajo Nation as well as participating non-Tribal parties in the Rio San José watershed. During the hearing, Navajo Nation President Dr. Buu Nygren testified in support of the legislation.
    Heinrich and Leger Fernández previously introduced the Rio San José and Rio Jemez Water Settlements Act, which would implement the water settlements agreed to by the Pueblos of Acoma and Laguna, the United States, the State of New Mexico, and non-Tribal parties, in the Rio San José watershed. That bill received a hearing and was reported out of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee in December. The House version of this bill received a legislative hearing in the House Water, Wildlife and Fisheries Subcommittee in July. The bill introduced this month and heard today in the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs would further resolve Tribal water claims in the Rio San José basin by settling the Navajo Nation’s claims.  
    Before the hearing on Tribal water rights settlements legislation, the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs also held a business meeting in which members voted to advance Heinrich’s Indian Buffalo Management Act. That legislation received a hearing before the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs in June.
    “This legislation will further foster growth of Tribal bison herds, and I am grateful for the committee’s support,” said Heinrich.
    The Indian Buffalo Management Act, which Heinrich introduced last year alongside U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), provides secure, consistent funding for Tribes and Tribal organizations that have established buffalo herds, as well as provides resources for Tribes that would like to establish new herds.
    The bill creates a permanent buffalo restoration and management program within the Department of Interior to:
    Promote and develop the capacity of Tribes and Tribal organizations to manage buffalo and buffalo habitat;
    Protect and enhance buffalo herds for the maximum benefit of Tribes; and
    Ensure that Tribes are directly involved in the Interior Department decision-making regarding buffalo.
    The bill has been endorsed by the InterTribal Buffalo Council, the National Bison Association, The Nature Conservancy, the National Wildlife Federation, and the National Parks Conservation Association.
    Full video of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee Business Meeting and Legislative Hearing can be found here.
    Heinrich’s full remarks as prepared for delivery are below: 
    Chairman Schatz and Vice Chairman Murkowski, I want to first thank you for considering the Indian Buffalo Management Act a few minutes ago. 
    This legislation will further support growth of Tribal bison herds, and I am grateful for the committee’s support. 
    Turning to the hearing agenda, I want to thank you for holding this hearing on the Zuni Indian Tribe Water Rights Settlement Act and the Navajo Nation Rio San José Stream System Water Rights Settlement Act, two bills of critical importance for the water future of New Mexico’s Tribes. 
    I am happy to welcome the Governor of Zuni Pueblo, Arden Kucate, who is here today to provide testimony on the Zuni Water Rights Settlement Act.?
    The Zuni people have been stewards of the Zuni River Basin for millennia. 
    Their traditional agricultural practices and careful stewardship of water sustained the tribe over thousands of years. 
    Unfortunately, the United States has failed to protect Zuni’s water rights and has allowed their water to be diverted to other purposes. 
    Overuse of water in the Zuni Basin has caused the Zuni people to suffer from a lack of water for their community, their businesses, and their traditional agricultural practices.  
    This injustice continues today. Without reliable access to clean water, it is difficult for Zuni to attract new businesses that create jobs and revenue for the Tribe. 
    This legislation would not only fully settle Zuni’s water rights claims in the Zuni River Basin; it would also provide funding for several key water infrastructure projects.  
    It is an opportunity for the United States to make the Zuni Tribe whole for the water that they have always been entitled to. 
    And it will support Zuni’s traditional irrigation practice, their people, and their future business development, in a manner that builds resilience in the face of a drying climate. 
    This piece of legislation would also protect the Zuni Salt Lake, a sacred place of great cultural significance to the Zuni Tribe and others in the region.
    I am also happy to welcome the President of Navajo Nation, Dr. Buu Nygren, who is here to provide testimony for the Navajo Nation Rio San José Stream System Water Rights Settlement Act.
    This legislation would settle the water rights of the Navajo Nation in the Rio San José basin – it is the final step in an adjudication process that began more than forty years ago. 
    In that time, we’ve seen aridification in the Southwest further strain water resources for Tribes, including the Navajo Nation, that don’t have the resources to fully use their water rights.
    This settlement is an important step towards giving the Navajo Nation an equal voice amongst water users in the southwest. 
    Today, there are more than 200 Navajo households within the Rio San José and Rio Puerco Basins without access to running water. 
    These households instead have to rely on hauling water. 
    The lack of reliable drinking water systems in these communities contributed to the widespread health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Navajo Nation, which took the lives of far too many. 
    I am committed to working with the Navajo Nation to build a future where they have full access to their water rights. 
    This access to water will facilitate the preservation of Navajo culture and tradition.
    Both of these pieces of legislation would implement settlement agreements that have been carefully negotiated between the Tribes, the State of New Mexico, neighboring water users, and the United States. 
    I want to thank all of the parties for their tireless work in reaching settlements for these basins, and Senator Luján for cosponsoring these settlements along with me. 
    The failure of the United States to work with Tribal Governments to ensure that they could use the water they have always owned has reverberated through generations.
    It has a direct impact on the well-being of Tribal members today. 
    It’s time we make this right for Zuni and the Navajo Nation.
    Thank you to the committee for your consideration today, and I yield back the remainder of my time. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: September 25th, 2024 Heinrich, Luján Secure Hermit’s Peak Claims Office Extension in Continuing Resolution

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich
    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) issued the following statement after securing an extension to the period that victims may file claims with the Hermit’s Peak Claims Office as part of the Continuing Resolution:
    “Today, we voted for a Continuing Resolution to keep the government open and avoid a costly shutdown for millions of Americans. As part of this Continuing Resolution, the period to file claims with the Hermit’s Peak Claims Office has been extended to December 20, 2024, which will give victims of the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire additional time to apply for relief.
    “But make no mistake, the job is not over yet. We will continue to work with our colleagues to deliver a long-term federal funding solution for the American people and keep the Hermit’s Peak Claims Office open longer. We continue to encourage New Mexicans to apply for assistance as soon as possible.”
    The extension will run the length of the Continuing Resolution to December 20, 2024. In October 2023, Heinrich, Luján, and U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fernández introduced the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Extension Act, legislation that would extend the period a victim can file a claim with the Hermit’s Peak Claims Office. Since the devastating wildfire, Heinrich, Luján, and the N.M. Delegation has delivered a total of $3.95 billion in federal funding for the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire recovery.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Greenpeace – Luxon Govt shows total disregard for public concerns about climate

    Source: Greenpeace

    Showing a profound disregard for the people of New Zealand, the Government has allowed only five days for the public to make submissions on the Government’s climate denying law to restart oil and gas exploration.
    The Crown Minerals Amendment Bill was only introduced into Parliament on Tuesday, September 24. Today, the chair of the Economic Development Select Committee decided the closing date for public submissions is Tuesday night October 1st. The Bill aims to restart offshore oil and gas exploration and weaken the requirement for oil companies to pay for the clean-up after they finish work.
    Greenpeace Aotearoa executive director Russel Norman says, “The Government has already shown complete disregard for climate science in proposing to restart oil and gas exploration.
    “The decision to allow only five days for public submissions on the bill, three working days, shows they also have complete disregard for the people of New Zealand who care about climate change.
    “Regardless of whether this climate denying bill passes through Parliament, the Government is dreaming if they think oil and gas exploration will restart. The people of New Zealand mobilised in their tens of thousands to end oil and gas exploration and they will again.
    “Whatever Chris Luxon might think, the future of Aotearoa is in clean energy not climate destroying fossil fuels.”
    Over thirty thousand people have signed on to an ‘ open letter of resistance’ to the oil industry published by Greenpeace. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: Sculpture of Laozi unveiled at Greece’s National Archaeological Museum

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    A bronze sculpture of ancient Chinese philosopher Laozi (about 571 BC- 471 BC) was installed on Wednesday in Greece’s National Archaeological Museum in Athens.

    The artwork titled “Harmony between Humankind and Nature — statue of Laozi” was crafted by Professor Wu Weishan, who is curator of the National Art Museum of China (NAMOC).

    The sculpture, which won the gold medal at the 2012 Louvre International Art Exhibition in France, will be on display permanently here, engaging in dialogue with the museum’s artifacts, Wu said at an inauguration ceremony.

    “I am moved that the museum’s visitors will from now on be able to see a sculpture created by a Chinese artist,” Wu said.

    “It is our duty to bring closer our peoples via an honest and open dialogue,” Anna Vassiliki Karapanagiotou, general director of the National Archaeological Museum, said.

    “Dialogue between Chinese and Greek civilizations” was the title of Wednesday’s event and this dialogue is deepening in recent years thanks to many initiatives, Karapanagiotou said.

    The Greek Museum has collaborated with NAMOC to exchange exhibitions and more are planned in the future, she said.

    The is not the first piece by Wu to be displayed in Greece. In 2021, his sculpture “Socrates and Confucius: An Encounter,” depicting the two great philosophers of ancient Greece and China, was respectively installed at the Ancient Agora of Athens, a historic site at the foot of the Acropolis once serving as the social, political, and commercial hub of the city. 

    MIL OSI China News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: McClellan Votes to Fund the Government, Avoid Shutdown at Hands of House Republicans

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (Virginia 4th District)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) issued the following statement after she voted in support of H.R. 9747, the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act of 2025: 

    “After months of Republican inaction and hyper-partisan messaging bills, we were brought to the brink of another government shutdown at the hands of Speaker Johnson and the Republican conference. From day one, House Democrats stood ready to pass a bipartisan Continuing Resolution (CR) to fund the government through the end of the calendar year to give Congress the time needed to finish the twelve year-long appropriations bills. 

    “Republicans tried repeatedly to advance their restrictive voting bill, the SAVE Act, through this funding legislation, because they knew it could not become law on its own merits. House Democrats defeated their efforts and successfully negotiated a clean CR that funds our federal agencies at current levels through December 20th, provides increased funding for the Secret Service, and ensures critical federal services remain functional and available to the American people. 

    “While we avoided a catastrophic government shutdown, this CR is not cause for celebration. The federal government should not have to operate on these temporary stopgap measures, and the American people should not have to worry about whether or not they will have access to critical services should a shutdown occur. The entire process is emblematic of Republicans’ inability to govern and put the American people above their own party’s politics. Today, House Democrats were the adults in the room, carrying the legislation over the finish line and providing more votes in support of the bill than Republicans. 

    “When we return to Washington after the District Work Period, Republicans need to abandon their extreme agenda and work with House Democrats to expeditiously pass the appropriations bills to fund the government for Fiscal Year 2025. It is our duty as Members of Congress and what the American people deserve.” 

    H.R. 9747 passed on a vote of 341 Yays to 82 Nays. Read H.R. 9747 bill text here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s water conservancy projects create 2.1 million jobs

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    China’s investment in water conservancy projects totaled 801.94 billion yuan (114.23 billion U.S. dollars) in the first eight months of this year, up 10.7 percent year on year, a government official said on Wednesday.
    At a press conference on water conservancy infrastructure construction held in Beijing, Wang Bao’en, vice minister of water resources, said that water conservancy project construction on a massive scale has contributed to employment. Construction of such projects created nearly 2.1 million jobs in the first eight months, up 6.9 percent year on year.
    Wang said that during the period, the five provinces of Hebei, Guangdong, Zhejiang, Shandong and Anhui each posted investment exceeding 40 billion yuan in the sector.
    Government data also shows that since the beginning of this year, a total of 42,000 water conservancy projects have been implemented nationwide, up 14.1 percent year on year. Among them, 28,000 are newly started projects, up 18.7 percent.
    Wang said that in the next step, the Ministry of Water Resources will continue to make solid efforts to promote water conservancy infrastructure construction after the main flood season. 

    MIL OSI China News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Supports Bill to Keep Government Open, Vows to Keep Fighting for Disaster Recovery Funding in December Budget Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) released the following statement on the Senate and House passage of a Continuing Resolution, which will fund the government through December 20th and avoid a costly government shutdown: 
    “It’s unacceptable that some in Congress view paying your bills and keeping the lights on as ‘optional.’ Tonight, we should have negotiated and passed a bipartisan budget bill that looks forward to 2025 and beyond. It’s long-past time every one of my colleagues—in the Senate and the House—commits to passing a budget every year, instead of using government funding and the economic security of hardworking Vermont families as a bargaining chip.
    “By its very function, a Continuing Resolution should continue the government services and funding our communities rely on. This bill does not hit that mark. The disaster relief and recovery provisions in this package will not meet the long-term needs of Vermont, or any state recovering from a disaster. This bill risks another depletion of FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund. Spending down next year’s funds early, especially as we deal with more catastrophic weather, threatens to create a perfect storm by our next funding deadline. 
    “It is our responsibility to fund the government and avoid a shutdown, so tonight I voted for this bill—despite its flaws. But I will keep working across the aisle and across the Capitol to secure the disaster recovery funding Vermont and every state devastated by natural disasters needs.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Baldwin Votes to Avoid Harmful Shutdown, Keep Government Open

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin
    Published: 09.25.2024

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) released the following statement on the Senate’s passage of a bill to keep the government funded until December:
    “American families suffer if we let the government shut down. It threatens to take Border Patrol off the beat, halt benefits for our Veterans, and block food for families in need. I joined my Democratic and Republican colleagues to vote to avoid a harmful shutdown, boost funding for the Secret Service, and keep the lights on as we work to pass our bipartisan funding bills. I will continue to make sure Wisconsin has a seat at the table in our ongoing negotiations and that our full year government funding bills support our Made in America economy, lower costs for working families, and tackle the opioid and fentanyl crisis.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese FM urges China, Switzerland to back economic globalization with action

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York, Sept. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said in New York on Tuesday that against the backdrop of rising protectionism and anti-globalization, China and Switzerland, both defenders of free trade, should demonstrate with concrete actions that economic globalization is unstoppable.

    Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks during talks with Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York.

    He hailed the two countries’ announcing the launch of negotiations on an upgraded version of the free trade agreement a piece of good news.

    The two sides should cherish and maintain a high level of political mutual trust, adhere to mutual respect and equal treatment, and ensure a sound and steady development of bilateral relations, he said.

    For his part, Cassis said the Swiss side will make every effort to push forward the negotiation process and promote bilateral economic and trade cooperation.

    Switzerland values its partnership with China and always adheres to the one-China policy, he added.

    During the talks, the two sides also exchanged views on the Ukraine crisis.

    MIL OSI China News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: China ready to be Argentina’s good partner in development

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Argentine Foreign Minister Diana Mondino on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York, Sept. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said in New York on Tuesday that China is ready to continue to be Argentina’s good friend and good partner in pushing forward development.

    Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks during talks with Argentine Foreign Minister Diana Mondino on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York.

    China, he said, always attaches great importance to its relations with Argentina, and maintains continuity and stability in its policy toward the country.

    He called on the two sides to continue to place China-Argentina relations at an important position in each other’s foreign policies and deepen political mutual trust.

    Noting that the two economies are highly complementary and their practical cooperation enjoys a solid foundation, Wang also urged the two countries to support each other on issues concerning each other’s core interests and major concerns.

    For her part, Mondino said Argentina prizes the Chinese market, and Chinese enterprises are welcome to invest and do business in her country.

    Mondino also expressed her hope that the two countries can expand bilateral economic and trade cooperation, saying that Argentina is ready to actively participate in China-Latin America cooperation.

    MIL OSI China News –

    January 22, 2025
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