NewzIntel.com

Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Demands Action to Stop Iranian Crime on U.S. Soil

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)

    WASHINGTON – Following reports indicating Iran is paying criminal organizations to carry out violent plots—including assassinations—against their critics within the United States, Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) joined a bipartisan group of her colleagues in demanding the Department of Justice (DOJ) stop this criminal activity.  
    “We write to request information regarding how the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) is prosecuting criminals who commit or attempt to commit acts of violence in the United States on behalf of foreign adversaries, and what statutory changes to the criminal code would help DOJ to robustly prosecute these crimes,” wrote the senators.
    “An…example includes a plot, allegedly ordered by individuals in Iran, to use members of an Eastern European criminal organization who refer to themselves as ‘Thieves-In-Law’ in an attempt to murder a prominent critic of Iran—who is a United States citizen—within the United States,” continued the senators. “The attempted assassination followed a prior plot by Iranian intelligence officials to abduct the same critic from within the United States for rendition to Iran.”
    The senators requested DOJ share efforts that foreign governments have undertaken to enlist criminal actors to commit crimes in the United States, identify if there has been any increase in these activities, explain their strategy in thwarting foreign government activity, and answer whether there would be changes to the criminal code to deter these illicit actors.
    Read the full letter here.
    Background:
    Ernst introduced the PUNISH Act to enforce “maximum pressure” sanctions on Iran until the State Department can certify that Iran has not supported any attempt in the last five years to kill a U.S. citizen or a former or current U.S. official. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China sees continuous decrease in water and soil loss: official

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BEIJING, Sept. 23 — China has seen a continuous decrease in its water and soil loss in recent years, thanks to its massive efforts to treat rivers, lakes and reservoirs, preserve water and soil, and protect ecology and the environment, a Chinese official said on Monday.

    Li Liangsheng, vice minister of water resources, said that thanks to these efforts, China’s water and soil preservation rate has increased continuously, and its river and lake ecosystems have improved steadily. The country’s treatment of water and soil loss has covered an area totaling 620,000 square kilometers over the past 10 years, he added.

    Li, also chair of the Board of Directors of the International Research and Training Center on Erosion and Sedimentation (IRTCES), said that as the impact of global climate change intensifies, human activities increase and industrialization accelerates, extreme weather events are occurring more frequently, and many countries are facing sedimentation and erosion problems.

    Li said the IRTCES will do more to play its leading role in the global issue of erosion and sedimentation, and support the realization of the goals set for the ninth phase of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Hydrological Programme.

    Li made the remarks at a Monday event held in Beijing to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the center, which was established by the Chinese government and UNESCO in 1984.

    Over the past 40 years, the center has led scientific and technological progress in the field of erosion and sedimentation, promoted academic exchange, and played an important role in boosting international research cooperation in the field of erosion and sedimentation.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn: Schumer’s Delays on Defense Make America Less Safe

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn
    WASHINGTON – Today on the floor, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) discussed the national security implications of delaying the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and failing to pass funding for our national defense in a timely manner under Democrat Majority Leader Schumer’s direction. Excerpts of Sen. Cornyn’s remarks are below, and video can be found here.  
    “The lack of productivity on some very important matters by the United States Senate lies squarely at the feet of the Majority Leader.”
    “We have less than five days before the end of the month. That’s why we’re hearing all of this unnecessary drama and narrative about a potential government shutdown.”
    “We’ve not considered a single appropriations bill in the Senate, which we could have done months ago.”
    “We have defense leaders from every facet of our military saying that the way the Senate is currently operating when it comes to funding the military and providing for the authorities that they need in order to do their job in the defense authorization bill, that the Senate’s failure to act on a timely basis is making their jobs harder and Americans less safe.”
    “The picture of leadership here in the United States Senate is truly pitiful.”
    “We could have avoided all of this if the Senate Majority Leader had scheduled votes on individual government funding bills months ago.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Markey’s Major Alzheimer’s Legislation Passes Through House, Moves to President Biden’s Desk

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey
    Then-Representative Markey authored the National Alzheimer’s Project Act in 2011 and the Alzheimer’s Accountability Act in 2014
    Washington (September 23, 2024) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), chair of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Subcommittee on Primary Health and Retirement Security and founder and co-chair of the Congressional Task Force on Alzheimer’s, applauded passage by the House of Representatives of the National Alzheimer’s Project Act (NAPA) Alzheimer’s Accountability and Investment Act, legislation that would cement and build on the important progress that has been made to prevent and effectively treat Alzheimer’s disease. The National Alzheimer’s Project Act (NAPA) Reauthorization and the Alzheimer’s Accountability and Investment Act (AAIA) now head to President Joe Biden’s desk to be signed into law.  
    “Since my mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 1985, I have fought to ensure the federal government has the funding, resources, and coordination necessary to find a cure for this disease,” said Senator Markey. “The National Alzheimer’s Plan Act and the Alzheimer’s Accountability Act have transformed our understanding of the disease and its risk factors for more than a decade. But our work is not yet done. Today’s extension of these bills until 2035 is a commitment from Congress that we will not stop fighting until Alzheimer’s is a disease only found in history books. I thank Senator Collins and my colleagues for their support in delivering hope to millions of families just like mine across the country as these two bills head to the President’s desk.”
    “We have made tremendous progress in recent years to boost funding for Alzheimer’s research, which holds great promise to end this disease that has had a devastating effect on millions of Americans and their families,” said Senator Susan Collins, a founder and co-chair of the Congressional Task Force on Alzheimer’s Disease. “These two bills will maintain our momentum and make sure that we do not take our foot off the pedal just as our investments in basic research are beginning to translate into potential new treatments. We must not let Alzheimer’s to be one of the defining diseases of our children’s generation as it has ours.”
    “I know from firsthand experience what a devastating illness Alzheimer’s disease is, as I watched my mother battle with it for a decade before her passing,” said Senator Mark Warner, co-chair of the Congressional Task Force on Alzheimer’s Disease. “While we’ve made great strides in research, there is still so much work to be done to find effective ways to prevent and treat Alzheimer’s. On behalf of the millions of American families who have been touched by Alzheimer’s, I’m glad to see these two bills head to the president’s desk to be signed into law.”
    The NAPA Reauthorization Act — co-led by Senators Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Collins (R-Maine), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.),  Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), and Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.) — would reauthorize NAPA through 2035 and modernize the legislation to reflect strides that have been made to understand the disease, such as including a new focus on promoting healthy aging and reducing risk factors. The bill also includes updated language to reduce health disparities for underserved communities, including Black, Brown and disabled communities, who are at increased risk for Alzheimer’s as they age.
    The NAPA Reauthorization Act is endorsed by the Alzheimer’s Association, UsAgainstAlzheimer’s, National Down Syndrobe Society, National Down Syndrome Congress, and LuMind IDSC Foundation.
    The Alzheimer’s Accountability and Investment Act — authored by Senators Markey, Collins, Capito, Warner, Moran, Menendez, Murkowski, and Stabenow — would continue through 2035 a requirement that the Director of the National Institutes of Health submit an annual budget to Congress estimating the funding necessary to fully implement NAPA’s research goals. Only two other areas of biomedical research – cancer and HIV/AIDS – have been the subject of special budget development aimed at speeding discovery.
    The Alzheimer’s Accountability and Investment Act is endorsed by the Alzheimer’s Association and UsAgainstAlzheimer’s.
    Senator Markey is a leader in the fight to find a cure for Alzheimer’s disease and to support family caregivers. In July 2024, Senator Markey applauded the HELP Committee’s passage of Older Americans Act Reauthorization Act of 2024, which included provisions based on his Respite Care And Resources for Everyone (CARE) Act and Convenient Care for Caregivers Act to expand respite care for family caregivers of older adults that need long-term care, including individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia. Earlier that month, Senator Markey unveiled his “Caring for Caregivers” family caregiving agenda, which included his Convenient Care for Caregivers Act to support family caregivers and individuals with Alzheimer’s receiving health care services at the same time and location to improve health outcomes. As a member of the House of Representatives, Senator Markey founded the bipartisan, bicameral Congressional Task Force on Alzheimer’s to develop a whole-of-government approach to finding a cure for Alzheimer’s. He created the Independence at Home program to provide seniors, including individuals with Alzheimer’s and other dementia, the option to receive primary care in their home. Senator Markey authored the bipartisan Spending Reductions Through Innovations in Therapies (SPRINT) Act, which would encourage drug development for high-cost, chronic health conditions such as Alzheimer’s, the Health Outcomes, Planning and Education (HOPE) Act to improve early detection and diagnoses of Alzheimer’s and support caregivers, and the Alzheimer’s Breakthrough Act, which would require the National Institutes of Health (NIH) work to improve treatment outcomes and engage federal agencies in the effort to combat Alzheimer’s.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Markey, Warren, Healey, Wu, Massachusetts Leaders Secure $472 Million in Federal Funding to Replace Draw One Bridge, Renovate North Station T Stop

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey
    Largest federal award MBTA has won to date
    Funding will increase ridership, streamline operations, and improve resiliency along Amtrak’s Downeaster route and regional rail lines
    Washington, D.C. – Today, Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), along with Representatives Stephen Lynch (MA-08), Katherine Clark (MA-05), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Lori Trahan (MA-03), Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, and MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng announced a grant of $472 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) to fully replace the North Station Draw One Bridge and renovate Platform F at North Station. The grant is the largest federal award the MBTA has won to date.
    The nearly half a billion dollar grant will provide critical support for one of MBTA’s top priority projects and a vital transportation asset to MBTA’s north-side operations. It will also support more than 14,500 jobs, make the bridge more climate resilient by bringing it above projected sea-level rise, and lower emissions. 
    Specifically, the new funding for MBTA’s North Station Renovation and the Draw One Bridge Replacement Project will support the full replacement of the existing drawbridge, the extension and activation of a platform with two tracks at North Station, and the replacement of track, signals, and switches to modernize and improve station infrastructure.
    “With $472 million to replace the North Station drawbridge, we’re drawing up a new future for rail transit north of Boston. I’m grateful to the Biden-Harris administration, Governor Healey, General Manager Eng, Senator Warren, and our whole federal delegation for securing this funding. Together, we are delivering critical federal dollars to the T and building a modern, safe, and reliable public transit system for all,” said Senator Markey.
    “This $472 million investment is a game-changer for the thousands of passengers who pass through North Station every day — and will build a safer, more reliable public transit system for the Commonwealth. Massachusetts leaders worked together to secure the largest ever federal award for the T, and I won’t stop fighting to bring home even more investment to improve transit across the Commonwealth,” said Senator Warren.
    “We know that improving our transportation infrastructure is critical for improving quality of life and making sure Massachusetts remains the best place to live, work, raise a family and build a future,” said Governor Maura Healey. “That’s why our administration is competing so aggressively to win federal funding that can be put toward our roads, bridges and public transportation. Congratulations to General Manager Eng and the MBTA team for this award that will improve train service for millions of riders. We’re grateful to the Biden-Harris Administration and U.S. Department of Transportation for their continued investment in Massachusetts’ transportation infrastructure.” 
    The Draw One railbridge carries the MBTA Commuter Rail and Amtrak trains, serving approximately 11,250,000 passengers per year. It is particularly critical for Amtrak’s Downeaster, an intercity passenger rail service that travels from Maine and New Hampshire into Boston, which is projected to have some of the highest ridership in New England. Draw One is also a vital connection for all of MBTA’s north-side regional rail lines, including Fitchburg, Lowell, Haverhill, and Newburyport/Rockport. The new federal investment will improve service reliability and operations, reduce congestion along a known bottleneck, and increase capacity across the bridge. Additionally, the funding will allow for upgraded signaling and expanded track capabilities, further improving traffic flow.
    “I am pleased to join my colleagues in government to announce the State of Massachusetts was awarded over $472 million in federal funding that will help improve MBTA and Amtrak services,” said Rep. Lynch. “This funding is the result of our hard work and partnership with the Biden-Harris administration to ensure we invest into our nation’s transportation and infrastructure. People all over the Commonwealth rely on public transportation every day, and this DOT grant is critical to make the necessary repairs and replacements that will make train service more safe and reliable.”
    “This bridge is a critical connection point for the communities north of Boston. This federal investment will improve the quality of life for commuters, reduce traffic for everyone, and bring opportunity to the Commonwealth. We will have a faster, more modern, and more user-friendly public transportation system, and that’s exactly the direction we need to move in,” said Democratic Whip Katherine Clark.
    “Transit justice is a racial and economic justice issue, and a matter of public safety – and this massive federal investment helps make the Commonwealth more connected and our transportation system safer and more reliable for commuters,” said Congresswoman Pressley. “I’m glad that families in the Massachusetts 7th who depend on the commuter rail will be better able to access jobs, healthcare, education, and essential services in other parts of the state, and we won’t stop fighting to build the more just, equitable, and accessible transit system our communities deserve. I thank my delegation colleagues and the Healey-Driscoll Administration for their partnership, and the Biden-Harris Administration for continuing to invest in Massachusetts.”
    “The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law continues to deliver unprecedented federal investments to make our transit systems safer and more efficient,” said Congresswoman Trahan. “This massive award is proof that, thanks to the strong partnership between our federal delegation and the Healey-Driscoll administration, Massachusetts continues to punch above our weight when competing for federal funding.”
    “North Station Draw One is a connection point between Boston and Cambridge, and the many cities and towns north who rely on this train bridge to visit and work in our city. Thanks to the leadership of the MA federal delegation and the Healey-Driscoll administration in securing this funding, the Greater Boston area will see benefits from updated infrastructure and more reliable transportation. This funding for a bridge replacement represents our region’s commitment to our local economy and green transit,” said Mayor Michelle Wu.
    “I’m proud of the MBTA team that worked diligently to put this project in a strong position to win this highly competitive federal award. I thank the USDOT Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, Deputy Secretary of Transportation Polly Trottenberg, and our partners at the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), Acting Administrator Veronica Vanterpool, FTA Region 1 Administrator Pete Butler, and their entire team, for this incredible award allowing us to deliver the North Station Draw 1 project, freeing up state capital dollars for other essential needs,” said MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng. “This award continues to demonstrate our aggressive approach to pursuing all funding opportunities under the lead of the Healey-Driscoll Administration as we pursue every available federal grant. Our Grants and North Station Drawbridge teams deserve all the credit for their exceptional work to secure this funding which allows us to ensure the efficient and reliable movement of all North Station train lines while greatly improving our ability to provide more frequent, regional rail-style service across the entire northside corridor to serve future generations to come.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: McConnell Urges Administration, Colleagues Not To Make Israel’s Job Harder

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Mitch McConnell

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding national security priorities:

    “In May, 2000, Israeli forces withdrew from southern Lebanon. But while the occupation ended, Hizballah’s appetite for waging war on Israel only grew. And its further deadly attacks on Israel invited the 2006 conflict.

    “The history of Israel’s fight to defend its northern border and innocent civilians against Hizballah terrorists bears eerie parallels to the story of brutal violence Hamas has perpetrated from Gaza.

    “Israel withdrew there in August, 2005. And by 2007, Iran-backed terrorists had bent the enclave to its all-consuming mission: war on Israel.

    “But the most glaring through-lines in Israel’s north and south are not the relentless bloodlust of terrorists. They’re the predictable delusion of Israel’s ‘friends’… And the shameful cowardice of international authorities that claim to stand for peace.

    “Take, for starters, how the Biden-Harris Administration chose to welcome the U.N. General Assembly by signaling its openness to resuming funding for UNRWA. And how it apparently still clings to the fiction that an organization so thoroughly corrupted by Hamas that nearly a dozen of its staff directly participated in the October 7th attacks is somehow reform-able.

    “But while the civilized world gathers in one place, the General Assembly might productively spend its time contemplating other pressing questions. For example:

    “Why hasn’t the U.N. Security Council managed to enforce resolutions 1559 and 1701 in Lebanon? These resolutions were passed to end and prevent further conflict between Israel and Lebanon by removing the threat Hizballah posed on Israel’s border, and to end the threat Hizballah posed to the state of Lebanon itself.

    “And why has the U.N. peacekeeping force in Lebanon allowed Hizballah to build up massive stockpiles on Israel’s border in clear preparation for war? Why has the UN looked the other way as Hizballah has expanded its corrosive influence over the institutions of Lebanon’s government?

    “But setting aside the failures of the so-called international community, this past weekend once again cast a spotlight on America’s own naivete toward the glaring facts of Iran-backed war on our friend, Israel.

    “In an interview that might rightly attract scrutiny for its host’s obfuscation of the facts on Israel’s latest responses to Hizballah terrorism, the White House national security communications advisor said out loud what the Biden-Harris Administration has been saying by its actions for nearly a year.

    “Quote: ‘We’ve been working since the beginning of this conflict, October 8th… to try to prevent an escalation…’

    “Think about it, Madam President. The only way to claim credit for working to ‘prevent an escalation’ is by pretending like Hizballah’s October 8th attacks – or Hamas’ October 7th massacre – weren’t actually escalations, themselves!

    “Unfortunately, the Administration official also seemed to suggest a moral equivalence between Israel and Hizballah. He suggested that ‘military action, by either side’ would not be ‘in either side’s best interest,’ and implied that an Israeli response would itself be escalation.

    “Second-guessing Israel’s interests.  Micromanaging their defensive efforts.  Blaming Israel for escalation when it’s clear Hamas and Hizballah have been the instigators of this conflict. It’s a tired playbook.

    “The Administration is telling the world that what America wants is a return to October 6th, as if the status quo ante was sustainable or peaceful. This, of course, is pure fantasy. Hamas broke a cease-fire on October 7th.

    “Or consider Hizballah’s history as the centerpiece of Iran’s ‘ring of fire’ around Israel:

    “Just since the 2006 conflict, Hizballah terrorists have imported tens of thousands of rockets to target Israel, deployed forces directly to Israel’s border, and constructed tunnels that would allow them to emulate Hamas’ October 7th invasion.

    “Recent estimates suggest the terrorists posses up to 200,000 rockets, missiles, drones, and precision-guided munitions, along with 25,000 active-duty militants. All of it is pointed south at Israel. And all of it, as Hizballah’s leader has boasted, is from Iran.

    “Or consider Lebanon itself. Hizballah is a cancer on the Lebanese state. It wields its power as a sectarian terror squad, and leaves a long trail of blood through the highest ranks of civilian government and civil society. Sunnis, Christians, Druze, and fellow Shiites – none are immune from Hizballah’s wrath.

    “Then again, National Public Radio refers to Hizballah as a ‘political’ group. Perhaps the Administration officials’ confusion is a symptom of their media diet. Or, more likely, the foundations of their foreign policy are fundamentally flawed:

    “Remember the declaration by the President’s national security advisor early last fall that the Middle East was ‘quieter than it has been for decades’.

    “The absurdity of this boast in light of October 7th is striking enough. But even when it was written, it betrayed the Administration’s naivete toward glaring and abiding threats to Israel and America’s national security interests in the region.

    “Iran’s agents in Syria and Iraq had already fired hundreds of rockets at American forces on this Administration’s watch. Since last October, these attacks have only metastasized, including into the Red Sea. Was this an acceptable status quo?

    “Was Hizballah’s steady preparation for war? Was Hamas’ expropriation of humanitarian assistance in order to build terror tunnels?

    “The United States ought to stand with our friend, Israel, as it faces these terrorists down. The goal should not be simply to avoid escalation or to return to the status quo ante, but to help Israel defend itself against terrorists bent on Israel’s destruction.

    “We have a stake in ensuring Israel emerges from this conflict stronger and these terrorist organizations and their Iranian patron weaker. These same terrorists want to expel the United States from the region. We are the Great Satan, in their own parlance.

    “Instead, by their misplaced obsession with escalation, the Administration and Washington Democrats are making Israel’s job harder.

    “If the President and Vice President want to see an end to war in Gaza and prevent greater hostilities in Lebanon, then it’s time to switch the focus of their diplomatic pressure.

    “Every time Administration officials try to tie Israel’s hands in public comments… And every time a U.S. Senator threatens to hold critical security assistance hostage… Hamas, Hizballah, and their patrons in Tehran are emboldened.

    “If our colleagues want peace, it’s time to show support for a nation founded on peace… And resolve toward terrorists whose reason for existence is chaos and violence.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Three cheers for Simon Court

    Source: ACT Party

    The Haps

    ACT MP Todd Stephenson has picked up the End of Life Choice baton. David Seymour’s original bill did not restrict access to people terminal within six months, but he would have had no bill without adding the restriction. That political compromise has meant some of the people who suffer most – especially those with long, slow, degenerative diseases like Motor Neurone Disease – are denied choice and control. Stephenson explains how his new bill would put this compromise right on Q&A, here.

    Three cheers for Simon Court

    The most important thing this Government does in three years may be what’s happening quietly in the background of resource management reform. Last week Court announced, beside Chris Bishop, that the Government is replacing the RMA with two laws based on property rights.

    If you’re a long-term Free Press reader, all of this will sound very familiar. The difference is that this time it is happening. It is now official Government policy with a series of dates by when legislation will be drafted, introduced to Parliament, and passed into law.

    At the heart of New Zealand’s problem is that it’s a beautiful, isolated piece of land. It has a mild climate that beats Canada’s skin-freezing cold or Australia’s blood-boiling heat any day. It’s filled with resources that make it one of the richest per-capita in the world. Climate change will probably actually make New Zealand even better off compared with the rest of the world.

    When a group of people have such a wonderful inheritance, they have two choices. Either make the most of it, or pull up the drawbridge.

    Making the most of it would mean making it easy for each generation to build a home. That would mean making it easy to build the infrastructure that connects homes together, forming towns and cities. It should be easy to farm the land, and extract resources that make human life long and happy (just not while they’re left in the ground).

    This seems like an obvious choice, but enter human nature. For the last few decades, the net result has been pulling up the drawbridge. You can’t do bloody anything, home building has only once reached the levels of the 1970s, when there were only three million people. There are probably more Kiwis working in Australian mines than New Zealand ones.

    The result is a generation who feel hopeless. Born into the best place on the planet where it’s needlessly hard to get a place of your own. Why not vote for a politician who promises to tax the rich? Better still, cut out the middle man, join a gang, and do it yourself. Then there’s those who leave.

    That is the result of the RMA. The simple diagnosis is that it’s a bureaucratic nightmare, but it’s more than that. It is the legislative expression of a people’s desire to enjoy what they have and bugger anyone else.

    The central concept in the RMA is sustainable development, to provide for current generations without taking from future ones. Because nobody knows what future generations want, or what technology they’ll have to achieve it, the best way to achieve this is to do as little as possible, which is pretty much what’s happened.

    Too many people have too many grounds to object to too many activities meaning nothing gets done. It’s not unusual for it to take longer to get permission to do something than to actually do it. The range of criteria Councils must consider under the RMA is everything from climate change (but you already pay under the ETS for whatever you do) to the ‘intrinsic values of ecosystems’ (how can you know them if they’re intrinsic)?

    David Parker’s RMA reforms, replacing it with three acts, introduced a new central concept ‘te oranga o te taiao.’ Nobody knows what that means in the context of resource management decisions. By the time the Courts figured it out, Indonesia would have overtaken us in GDP per capita.

    So that’s gone and the Resource Management Act is being replaced with a law whose central concept is the enjoyment of private property. The starting point is that you have a right to use and develop your own property. The second result is that you have a right to object only if your own property is affected.

    The result is a switch back to the pioneering vision of New Zealand. A nation of people who can instead of a nation of people who are not allowed.

    The law will also make many processes standard. If you have a water treatment plant that spits out water with less than x parts per million of E. Coli, congratulations. You’ve met the standard and can just build it.

    The Government will now listen to an expert advisory group, people with real experience of development, as the law itself is developed for introduction to Parliament. It will be passed before the next election, and New Zealand will have taken a massive step forward to achieving its potential.

    Much of this is owed to Simon Court, one of only two engineers in Parliament (David Seymour is the other one). Court has been working away since he entered Parliament, releasing ACT’s detailed RMA policy in 2022, and making it real in Government. A very good example of how ACT keeps the Government in place, and makes it better.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 09.23.2024 Sen. Cruz Issues Statement on Israeli Military Strikes in Lebanon

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas Ted Cruz
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued the following statement:
    “Hezbollah exerts far-reaching control over Lebanon’s territory, governance, and infrastructure, and they have transformed vast regions of the country into a military terrorist base. They have stockpiled hundreds of thousands of rockets, missiles, precision munitions, and other weapons, which they have placed behind a vast network of human shields, including by placing uncountable ready-to-launch projectiles in civilian homes and buildings across the country. Hezbollah believes that the civilian casualties they generate through their use of human shields will trigger international pressure against and demonization of our Israeli allies, which has happened far too often, including the inexcusable complicity and participation of Biden-Harris officials. Since October, Iran has been using its terrorist groups across the Middle East, including Hamas and Hezbollah, to wage war against Israel. The Israeli government has the right and obligation to respond and protect the Israeli people, and it is imperative for that the Biden-Harris administration to reverse its policy of equivocating between Israel and Hezbollah, and for the United States to unequivocally stand with our Israeli allies as they respond to the attacks Iran has been waging through Hezbollah.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement of G7+ Ministerial Meeting on Ukraine Energy Sector Support held on margins of 79th Session of UN General Assembly

    Source: Government of Canada News

    The G7+ Group on Ukraine Energy Sector Support today issued the following statement on the occasion of their fifth Ministerial Meeting on the margins of the 79th United Nations General Assembly

    September 23, 2024 – New York City, New York – Global Affairs Canada

    The G7+ Group on Ukraine Energy Sector Support today issued the following statement on the occasion of their fifth Ministerial Meeting on the margins of the 79th United Nations General Assembly:

    “We, the G7+ Ministerial Group, met on the margins of the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly [UNGA] to reaffirm our unwavering support for Ukraine in the face of Russia’s brutal and unjust attacks on Ukraine and its energy infrastructure.

    “We reaffirm our strong commitment to the territorial integrity, independence and sovereignty of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders and to focus on the key priorities needed to achieve a comprehensive, just and lasting peace based on international law, including the UN Charter and its principles.

    “We strongly condemn Russia’s continuous missile and drone strikes against Ukraine’s energy infrastructure and cities across Ukraine, which have escalated since March 2024 and severely threaten Ukraine’s energy security and the Ukrainian people’s access to critical services, including electricity, heat and water, during the cold winter months, which could be the harshest for Ukraine since at least its independence. We highlight the regional implications of such attacks, notably on the Republic of Moldova’s energy security. Russia must end its war of aggression and pay for the damage it has caused.

    “We recommit to supporting Ukraine’s immediate and medium- and long-term recovery and reconstruction in line with its path toward the EU and to working to involve our private sectors and local governments in the sustainable economic and social recovery of Ukraine. We welcome, and underscore the significance of, Ukraine’s commitment to business-enabling reforms that will establish a level playing field for investment in the energy sector. We stress the importance of the implementation of the National Energy and Climate Plan and the monitoring of this process. We will continue to support efforts of the Ukrainian government and people in these endeavours.

    “We stress the importance of the implementation of energy sector reforms in line with the EU accession path and fulfilling obligations under the Energy Community Treaty, including OECD-compliant corporate governance standards. This is especially crucial ahead of the winter, given the scale of repairs and new energy infrastructure needs.

    “We acknowledge the need for international assistance to protect energy infrastructure from attacks, including through the strengthening of Ukraine’s air defence capabilities by the committed countries, and reaffirm our readiness to continue providing such assistance.

    “We condemn Russia’s seizure and continued control and militarization of Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, which threatens energy security.  We emphasize that any use of nuclear energy and nuclear installations must be safe, secured, safeguarded and environmentally sound. With reference to the UNGA resolution of July 11 entitled Safety and Security of Nuclear Facilities of Ukraine, Including the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, we stress that the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant must return to the full sovereign control of Ukraine in line with IAEA principles and under its independent supervision.

    “We are convinced that rebuilding Ukraine’s energy system in the short- and long-term is in the interest of enhancing global energy security and sustainability.

    “We welcome further commitments to providing funding and in-kind support to address the Ukrainian energy sector’s most urgent needs, including repairs of damaged power plants and district heating systems; deployment of new, distributed power generation; emergency backup power for critical services; and passive protection for energy infrastructure. We call on the global community to urgently strengthen efforts in that regard and provide Ukraine with all the assistance needed.

    “We underline the important work of international partners, banks and the Energy Community’s Ukraine Energy Support Fund in this regard. We call on international partners to elevate their financial contributions, in particular to this latter fund, to improve Ukraine’s resilience next winter.

    “Based on the work of the Working Group on Energy Security and the outcomes of the first Global Peace Summit, held on June 15 and 16, 2024, in Bürgenstock, Switzerland, as well as the results of a productive and constructive dialogue at the Energy Security Conference, held on August 22, 2024, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to achieving a comprehensive, just and lasting peace for Ukraine.

    “Based on the Japan-Ukraine Conference for the Promotion of Economic Growth and Reconstruction, held in Tokyo, Japan, in February 2024; the 2024 Ukraine Recovery Conference [URC], held in Berlin, Germany, in June 2024; and looking ahead to the November 2024 UN Climate Change Conference and the 2025 URC, in Italy, we are committed to continuing to support immediate needs and Ukraine’s vision of a more decentralized, diversified, resilient and renewable and sustainable energy system that is fully integrated with Europe.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman McCaul Urges House Colleagues to Hold the Biden-Harris Admin Accountable for the Afghanistan Withdrawal

    Source: US House Committee on Foreign Affairs

    Media Contact 202-226-8467

    Washington, D.C. – Today, House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul delivered opening remarks before the House Rules Committee in support of his legislation H.Res. 1469, “Ensuring Accountability For Key Officials In The Biden-Harris Administration Responsible For Decisionmaking And Execution Failures Throughout The Withdrawal From Afghanistan.” In his remarks, Chairman McCaul emphasized his bill will serve as a step toward holding the administration accountable for its deadly Afghanistan withdrawal, on behalf of U.S. servicemembers, veterans, Gold Star families, and the American people.

    WATCH HERE

    – Remarks as Delivered –

    Let me just say first, I wish we did not have to be here tonight. But more than three years after the withdrawal from Afghanistan, President Biden [and] Vice President Harris have yet to hold a single person accountable for this catastrophic failure of epic proportions.

    When asked just this month if there had been any accountability for the disastrous withdrawal, National Security Advisor Kirby responded, ‘We’ve all held ourselves accountable.’

    That answer doesn’t fool anybody.

    If the administration refuses to hold itself accountable, then the duly elected Representatives of the American people must.

    In April 2021, the President announced the Biden-Harris administration would withdraw from Afghanistan.

    They ignored the Taliban’s violations of the Doha agreement.

    They ignored objections by our nation’s military and intelligence experts.

    They ignored objections by our NATO allies.

    The Biden-Harris administration was determined to withdraw from Afghanistan no matter the cost. According to their own admission, the Doha Agreement was, ‘immaterial,’ to that decision.

    Following President Biden’s go-to-zero order, the Taliban captured province after province.

    Meanwhile, thanks to this administration’s feckless policy, there were less than 1,000 U.S. troops on the ground and our Afghan allies suffered unsustainable losses.

    All the while, this administration did nothing to plan an emergency evacuation, while denying the threats to American interests, American citizens, and our decades-long Afghan partners.    

    On August 15, 2021, Kabul fell, and the administration’s utter failure to prepare became painfully clear.

    As my report revealed, the Biden-Harris administration had the information and opportunity to take necessary steps to plan for the inevitable collapse of the Afghan government. But at each step of the way, they prioritized optics – political optics – over the security of brave Americans.

    To protect their partisan aims, the administration proffered our servicemembers, diplomats, citizens, and allies on a silver platter to the Taliban and ISIS-K.

    The Biden-Harris administration treated the Taliban – a terrorist group – as security partners during the evacuation. They created the environment that allowed an ISIS-K terrorist to pass through a Taliban checkpoint.

    Think about that. A Taliban checkpoint. We put the Taliban in charge.

    On August 26, 2021, that terrorist detonated his bomb, murdering 13 U.S. servicemembers and over 170 Afghan civilians and injuring 45 American servicemembers.

    It was the deadliest day for the U.S. military in Afghanistan since 2012, and it never should have happened.

    Rather than own up to their mistakes, this administration touts their deadly evacuation as a success. I believe that is shameful.

    Today, U.S. national security is degraded, America’s credibility on the world stage is damaged, and the moral injury to America’s veterans and servicemembers is a stain on this administration’s credibility and legacy.

    When I became chairman, I launched an investigation so that we, Congress, and the American people could work to ensure that what happened in Afghanistan never happens again.

    And, as everyone here knows, we cannot begin to fix a problem without first admitting there is a problem. That is what accountability is all about. My 353-page report on this investigation works to provide that accountability.

    So, we take the first step in fixing the problem by holding accountable those leaders who were derelict in their duties and responsible for this disaster. They are:

    • Joseph Biden, President of the United States.
    • Kamala Harris, Vice President of the United States.
    • Jake Sullivan, National Security Advisor.
    • Jonathan Finer, Assistant to the President and Deputy National Security Advisor.
    • Elizabeth Sherwood-Randall, Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Deputy National Security Advisor.
    • John Kirby, National Security Council Spokesperson and former Defense Department Spokesperson.
    • Jen Psaki, Former White House Press Secretary.
    • Antony Blinken, U.S. Secretary of State.
    • Brian McKeon, Former Deputy Secretary of State.
    • Ross Wilson, U.S. Ambassador and former Chief of Mission to U.S. Embassy in Kabul.
    • Zalmay Khalilzad, U.S. Ambassador and former Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation.
    • Ned Price, Deputy to the U.S. Representative to the United Nations and former State Department Spokesperson.
    • Lloyd Austin, U.S. Secretary of Defense.
    • Derek Chollet, Chief of Staff to Secretary Austin and former Counselor to Secretary Blinken.
    • Colin Kahl, Former Under Secretary of Defense for Policy.

    The American people, U.S servicemembers, veterans, and Gold Star families – who recently received the Congressional Gold Star medal, here in the Capitol – deserve both transparency and accountability. Those who support this resolution will deliver both. This will serve as a productive step toward ensuring that this never happens again.

    So, with that, I thank the committee for your time and look forward to your questions.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Statement on the occasion of the G7 Ministerial Meeting on Support for the Energy Sector of Ukraine on the Sidelines of the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Government of Canada – in French 1

    The G7 Group on Support for Ukraine’s Energy Sector today issued the following statement at its fifth ministerial meeting on the margins of the 79th United Nations General Assembly:

    September 23, 2024 – New York, New York – Global Affairs Canada

    The G7 Group on Support for Ukraine’s Energy Sector today issued the following statement on the occasion of its fifth ministerial meeting on the margins of the 79th United Nations General Assembly:

    “We, the members of the G7 Group of Ministers, have gathered on the margins of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly to reaffirm our unwavering support for Ukraine in the face of Russia’s brutal and unjust attacks on Ukraine and its energy infrastructure.

    “We reaffirm our strong commitment to the territorial integrity, independence and sovereignty of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders. We also reiterate our determination to focus on the essential priorities necessary for the establishment of a comprehensive, just and lasting peace based on international law, including the Charter of the United Nations and its principles.

    “We strongly condemn the continued Russian missile and drone strikes against Ukraine’s energy infrastructure and cities. These strikes have intensified since March 2024 and pose a serious threat to Ukraine’s energy security and the Ukrainian people’s access to essential services, including electricity, heat, and water, during the cold winter months, which could be the most difficult for Ukraine since at least its independence. We underscore the regional implications of such attacks, including on the energy security of the Republic of Moldova. Russia must end its war of aggression and pay for the damage it has caused.

    “We reaffirm our commitment to support Ukraine’s recovery and reconstruction in the immediate, medium and long term, in line with the country’s path towards EU membership, and to work to engage the private sector and our local governments in Ukraine’s sustainable economic and social recovery. We welcome Ukraine’s commitment to implementing business-friendly reforms that will level the playing field for investments in the energy sector, and underline the importance of this initiative. We also highlight the importance of implementing the Integrated National Energy and Climate Plan and monitoring this process. We will continue to support the efforts of the Government and people of Ukraine in these initiatives.

    “We stress the importance of implementing energy sector reforms in line with the EU accession path, and of respecting obligations under the Energy Community Treaty, including corporate governance standards in line with those of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. This is particularly important as winter approaches, given the scale of repairs and new energy infrastructure needs.

    “We recognize the need for international assistance to protect energy infrastructure from attack, including through the strengthening of Ukraine’s air defense capabilities by participating countries, and we reaffirm our readiness to continue providing such assistance.

    “We condemn the seizure and continued control and militarization of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant of Ukraine, which threatens energy security. We stress that any use of nuclear energy and nuclear facilities must be safe, secure, protected and environmentally friendly. With regard to the UN General Assembly resolution of 11 July entitled Safety and security of Ukraine’s nuclear facilities, including the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, we stress that the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant must return to the full sovereign control of Ukraine, in accordance with the principles of the International Atomic Energy Agency and under its independent supervision.

    “We are convinced that the reconstruction of the Ukrainian energy system in the short and long term is in the interests of improving global energy security and sustainability.

    “We welcome the new commitments to provide financial and non-financial support to address the most urgent needs of Ukraine’s energy sector, including the repair of damaged power plants and district heating facilities, the deployment of new distributed power generation networks, emergency backup power for essential services, and passive protection of energy infrastructure. We call on the international community to urgently step up its efforts in this regard and provide Ukraine with all the assistance it needs.

    “We highlight the important work of international partners, banks and the Energy Community’s Energy Support Fund of Ukraine in this regard. We call on international partners to increase their financial contributions, including to this fund, in order to improve Ukraine’s resilience next winter.

    “Taking into account the work of the Energy Security Working Group, the outcomes of the first World Peace Summit, held on June 15-16, 2024 in Bürgenstock, Switzerland, as well as the results of a productive and constructive dialogue at the Energy Security Conference, held on August 22, 2024, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to achieving a comprehensive, just and lasting peace for Ukraine.

    “Considering the Japan-Ukraine Conference for Promoting Economic Growth and Reconstruction, held in Tokyo, Japan, in February 2024, the 2024 Conference on the Reconstruction of Ukraine [CRU] held in Berlin, Germany, in June 2024, and looking ahead to the United Nations Climate Change Conference in November 2024 and the 2025 CRU in Italy, we are determined to continue supporting Ukraine’s immediate needs and vision of a more decentralized, diversified, resilient, renewable and sustainable energy system, fully integrated with Europe.”

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Joint Report – Canada and Egypt Strengthen Bilateral Relations

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Government of Canada – in French 1

    Following the meeting today between the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada, and His Excellency Dr. Badr Abdelatty, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Emigration and Egyptian Expatriates of Egypt, on the margins of the United Nations General Assembly meetings in New York, the following joint report has been issued:

    September 23, 2024 – New York, United States – Global Affairs Canada

    Following the meeting today between the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada, and His Excellency Dr. Badr Abdelatty, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Emigration and Egyptian Expatriates of Egypt, on the margins of the United Nations General Assembly meetings in New York, the following joint report was issued:

    In keeping with the long-standing partnership of friendship between Canada and Egypt, established over 70 years of diplomatic relations, both parties reaffirmed their mutual desire to strengthen cooperation between our two countries.

    Ministers Joly and Abdelatty stressed the need to advance and strengthen bilateral relations, including economic and trade exchanges, as well as the promotion of tourism and the strengthening of people-to-people interactions. Both ministers agreed that the governments of Canada and Egypt can achieve much by working together to continue building a reinvigorated platform for bilateral cooperation in all its dimensions.

    To this end, the two ministers discussed the issue of mutual facilitation of travel and tourism between the two countries, as well as the possibility of exempting Canadian citizens travelling to Egypt from the requirement to obtain a prior entry visa. Minister Abdelatty agreed that Egypt will take this step very soon and that it will be announced in due course. Minister Joly thanked him for this positive signal, which is in the spirit of Egyptian-Canadian friendship, and in a true demonstration of the partnership between the two countries, which will celebrate 70 years of diplomatic relations this year.

    Related links

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI China: China to further promote ties with Maldives: Chinese FM

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    NEW YORK, Sept. 23 — Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu on Monday met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in New York, during which Wang expressed China’s willingness to continuously promote bilateral relations to new levels.

    Conveying Chinese President Xi Jinping’s cordial greetings to Muizzu at the start of the meeting, Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, noted the fact that China and the Maldives are friendly neighbors across the Indian Ocean, recalling the successful state visit by Muizzu to China in January.

    During the state visit, the heads of state announced the elevation of bilateral ties to a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership, and the two countries will work together to build a community with a shared future, Wang said.

    Thanks to the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, China and the Maldives have conducted close exchanges at all levels and promoted practical cooperation, bringing tangible benefits to the Maldivian people, Wang said.

    China and the Maldives have always understood, trusted and supported each other despite the many uncertainties in the region and around the world, and the development of bilateral ties have remained steady and healthy, Wang said.

    China, Wang told Muizzu, is willing to work with the Maldivian side to thoroughly implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state and continuously promote the China-Maldives relations to new levels.

    China’s development will enhance the force for peace in the world and augment the strength of developing countries, and will hence bring new opportunities for developing countries like the Maldives, Wang said.

    China-Maldives relations have become an example of countries large and small treating each other equally, helping and supporting each other, and striving for mutual benefits and win-win results, Wang said, adding that it is the wish of China to carry forward its traditional friendship with the Maldives and march alongside the Maldives at the forefront of the endeavor to build a community with a shared future for mankind.

    China will always support the Maldives’ effort to protect its sovereignty independence, territorial integrity and national dignity, and support the Maldives’ search for a development path that suits the country’s reality, Wang said.

    Wang mentioned in particular the development of small island countries, saying that China is willing to lend a helping hand through the Chinese proposal known as the Global Development Initiative, meanwhile coping with challenges such as climate change together with small island countries.

    Muizzu, for his part, asked Wang to convey his best regards to President Xi, expressing his warm congratulations on the 75th anniversary of the founding the People’s Republic of China.

    Muizzu said his historic state visit to China in January was not only a total success that injected vigor into the development of Maldives-China relations, but also a personal honor for himself, as he was the first foreign head of state invited to China by President Xi this year.

    The Maldives, Muizzu stressed, firmly adheres to the one-China policy and supports a series of prominent international cooperation initiatives proposed by the Chinese president.

    Noting the visits by multiple Maldivian ministers to China since the start of this year and the smooth cooperation between the two countries, Muizzu said the Maldivian government and people wholeheartedly thank China for its selfless assistance in the economic and social development of the Maldives.

    The Maldives looks forward to strengthening cooperation with China in the fields of finance, housing, agriculture, infrastructure and tourism, and promoting greater development of bilateral relations.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hagerty, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Protect American Assets From Unlawful Seizure by AMLO’s Mexico

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Tennessee Bill Hagerty

    In violation of USMCA, the Mexican President has repeatedly threatened to declare an American company’s property as a “Protected Natural Area” to unjustifiably seize their assets

    WASHINGTON—United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, today led his colleagues in introducing the Defending American Property Abroad Act, legislation to impose retaliatory prohibitions that deter and punish any Western Hemisphere nation that unlawfully seizes American assets. This legislation responds to ongoing efforts by the Government of Mexico to seize a deep-water port owned by U.S.-based Vulcan Materials Company, which is a flagrant violation of the United Sates-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) governing trade between our two nations.

    Specifically, this legislation would prohibit vessels from entering a U.S. port if they had previously used a port, land, or infrastructure that had been illegally seized from a U.S. entity by a foreign nation in the Western Hemisphere. It also requires the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to identify and ban illegally seized ports from U.S. trade and requires the United States Trade Representative to report to Congress on how such expropriations would be addressed during the upcoming review of the United Sates-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), scheduled for 2026. The legislation is co-sponsored by Senators John Barrasso (R-WY), Katie Britt (R-AL), Ted Budd (R-NC), Tim Kaine (D-VA), and Tommy Tuberville (R-AL).

    “I strongly condemn AMLO’s threats against Vulcan Materials Company and am pleased to see this bipartisan rebuke from the United States Senate,” said Senator Hagerty. “No nation or president, and especially one of our largest trade partners, should be allowed to bully an American firm without consequences. Our legislation will help to undermine any attempt by AMLO to profit from his illegal actions and, in the event of a seizure, would strengthen our nation’s position in trade negotiations with Mexico.”

    “Mexico seizing American-owned property is outrageous and unacceptable,” said Senator Barrasso. “The United States will always defend American business assets from illegal seizures. Senator Hagerty’s bill will ensure foreign countries cannot profit off of stealing from American companies abroad.”

    “Make no mistake–President López Obrador’s scheme to seize Vulcan’s deep-water port would represent a flagrant expropriation of a lawfully permitted, U.S.-owned operation, and his administration’s assault on the rule of law is putting America’s and Alabama’s economic and national security interests in jeopardy,” said Senator Britt. “We have repeatedly warned him that there will be substantial ramifications if his administration crossed this line. Our bipartisan Defending American Property Abroad Act makes it clear that we will keep our promises. The United States is prepared to meet President López Obrador’s illegal actions, which violate both Mexican and international law, with crushing consequences.” 

    “The United States and Mexico have an important trade and economic relationship,” said Senator Budd. “The illegal seizure of American property and infrastructure in Mexico is unacceptable and undermines that relationship. I am proud to partner with Senator Hagerty to stand up for American’s right to engage in international commerce without being extorted.” 

    “In recent years, Mexican President López Obrador has unfairly targeted Vulcan Materials Company, a U.S.-based company that employs over 1,000 people in Virginia,” said Senator Kaine, Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere. “That’s why I’m introducing this bipartisan legislation with my colleagues to deter Mexico and any country in our hemisphere from illegally seizing U.S. assets. We must make it clear that this behavior will not be tolerated. On the heels of Mexico’s controversial judicial reforms, this behavior only further harms the economic relationship between our two countries, as well as global investor confidence in Mexico.” 

    “For more than a year, Mexican President López Obrador has continued to show undue aggression toward American businesses, primarily Alabama’s Vulcan Materials,” said Senator Tuberville. “The continued escalation against Vulcan’s operation in Mexico is a disgrace to the longstanding trade agreement between our two countries for the last 30 years. The Biden-Harris administration has refused to stand up to President López Obrador’s threats, which is why it’s time for Congress to take action and urgently move this legislation to ensure this doesn’t happen to more American companies under a new Mexican president.”

    Background:

    In May 2022, Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO) abruptly shut down Vulcan’s operations with false claims that the firm was violating its contract, and since then the Mexican Government, under AMLO’s direction, has waged an unceasing pressure campaign against Vulcan, including multiple lawsuits and at times sending military and law enforcement to its facilities. Last month, AMLO announced that he is pushing to designate the port and mine a “Protected Natural Area”.

    In May 2022, Hagerty urged President Joe Biden to take action against the Mexican government’s moves to expropriate the property of U.S. companies with investments and operations in Mexico.

    In March 2023, Hagerty pressed Secretary of State Antony Blinken on the seizure by Mexican military troops and civilian authorities of U.S.-based Vulcan Materials Company’s assets in Mexico.

    In December 2023, Hagerty and Kaine spoke on the Senate floor imploring President López Obrador to halt harmful actions against American companies’ lawfully owned assets in Mexico, noting that these unlawful actions violate agreements made between the two countries under the USMCA and jeopardize a key U.S. trade relationship.

    In May 2024, Hagerty, Tuberville, Britt, and Kaine sent a letter to Secretary of Foreign Affairs of Mexico Alicia Bárcena urging her to take action regarding the Mexican government’s mistreatment of Vulcan Materials Company.

    Full text of the Defending American Property Abroad Act can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Minister Rishworth interview on the Today Show with Karl Stefanovic.

    Source: Ministers for Social Services

    E&OE TRANSCRIPT

    Topics: Cost of living; Supermarket price gouging; Consumer affairs; Nuclear power; Renewable energy; Brownlow Medal.

    KARL STEFANOVIC, HOST: Welcome back. The consumer watchdog is taking legal action against Coles and Woolies, accusing the supermarket giants of misleading customers with dodgy discounts. Joining us to discuss today’s headlines is Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth and Independent MP Monique Ryan. Morning, ladies. Nice to see you. Monique, what a spectacular and disturbing own goal from the supermarkets. Maybe we do need to break them up with divestiture.

    MONIQUE RYAN, MEMBER FOR KOOYONG: No, I don’t agree, Karl. Look, it is a really disturbing news that we’ve seen that the supermarkets have been effectively price gouging Australians for a long time and that’s probably contributed significantly to inflation and to some of even the increased interest rates that we’ve seen in recent years. But we need more competition, not less. Divestiture would actually decrease competition and allow supermarkets to increase prices even more. We do need the ACCC and similar organisations to keep an eye on industry. This is appalling behaviour by the supermarkets.

    KARL STEFANOVIC: Okay, Amanda, it wasn’t your Government or the parliamentary committee – it was consumers who called all this out.

    AMANDA RISHWORTH, MINISTER FOR SOCIAL SERVICES: Look, the ACCC does a very important job in this country and I’m really obviously going to be following this case. But it is disappointing if this turns out to be true for customers and very concerning. But we need to continue to reform, make sure we have competition in this country. That’s exactly what the mandatory code of conduct for the food and grocery sector is all about. We also need to make sure that our merger laws are fit for purpose and that we do have the ACCC looking very closely at our supermarkets because consumers and suppliers deserve a fair go. So, look, this is important work and we’ll keep doing it.

    KARL STEFANOVIC: We’ve known for so long, though, that we suspected at least, that it’s been happening. What’s taken you so long to act?

    AMANDA RISHWORTH: I think the ACCC has been getting on and doing its job and this latest action is one of a number of actions that the ACCC has taken. But when it comes to making the grocery code of conduct mandatory, that’s been something, we’re out for consultation on now with a draft we’ve been going through methodically with the Craig Emerson report to introduce all those 11 recommendations. It’s important work and we’ll keep doing it.

    KARL STEFANOVIC: Monique, that was a fair accusation at the start of this interview that this has contributed to inflation, maybe even interest rates. Do you stand by that?

    MONIQUE RYAN: I do. And I really think that at a time of a cost of living crisis, when Australians are really struggling with the price of so many essentials, the behaviour of Coles and Woolworths has been unconscionable. We do need the ACCC, we need the Government to work on competition in lots of industries. I’ve been calling for a code of conduct for the aviation industry for some time as well. We need the Government to act on that in the same way that it’s acted on supermarkets recently.

    KARL STEFANOVIC: Well, have a look at the prices for flying to the grand final this weekend, it’s unbelievable. Let’s roll on, though. Nuclear. Monique long after the price is forgotten, Peter Dutton would argue the power remains. What did you make of his announcement yesterday?

    MONIQUE RYAN: Peter Dutton has been talking about nuclear, but he still won’t give us the detail we need, which is the details regarding costing. The Government, any governments since the 1970s, if we look back to the Gorton government of the early seventies, have looked at nuclear. There have been so many inquiries into the potential for nuclear energy in our electricity market for more than 50 years, and every single one has found that nuclear just doesn’t compare to the other sources of electricity. People need cheaper power. We need to be able to be confident that we have a secure electricity supply in this country. Nuclear power is not the answer. If Peter Dutton really believed in this, he would have evidence of the cost effectiveness of the nuclear option. He doesn’t, and that’s why he hasn’t presented any costings to the Australian public.

    KARL STEFANOVIC: But you’d go for it if he found the Willy Wonka chocolate bar answer to it all?

    MONIQUE RYAN: I think all Australians want cheaper electricity. We’re struggling with the cost of power. We get our energy bills and they’re horrible. But nuclear is not the answer. There’s no evidence. There never has been in the multiple inquiries over 50 years to ever suggest that nuclear electricity is a cost effective option for this country.

    KARL STEFANOVIC: Amanda, he reckons Bob Hawke could go for it. Surely that’s enough for you.

    AMANDA RISHWORTH: Well, I have to say that was the art of distraction from Peter Dutton. I mean, he is, you know, verbaling, effectively a former, revered Labor leader. Someone that can’t give a right of reply because he passed away tragically five years ago. I mean, he could have actually turned up and told us what the cost was, told us how long it was going to take to build, rebut every expert that is saying that nuclear is more expensive, more risky and won’t keep the lights on, but instead he chose the art of distraction. He could have channelled Malcolm Turnbull, who is very, very vocal on this issue. Who says it’s an absolute disaster. So, maybe he needs to look at his own leaders first.

    KARL STEFANOVIC: Righto. Finally, footy and fashion were on show at the Brownlow last night with Carlton captain Patty Cripps taking home the AFL’s highest honour. Monique, I feel like this was a great moment for you personally. Talk to us about how that made you feel.

    MONIQUE RYAN: So, you can see probably, yeah, you can probably see Karl I’m carrying a picture here, a signed picture. Patty Cripps wishing me all the best for all the good work that I do in Canberra as a Carlton supporter. It was a lovely night. It was lovely to see Patty take home the Charles Brownlow medal. He is an absolute champion. And after a pretty tough year, it was a good thing for Baggers supporters to see.

    KARL STEFANOVIC: I’m getting a little bit emotional. You, Amanda?

    AMANDA RISHWORTH: Oh, look, he was an absolute star on the field. You couldn’t deny that. Broke the record in terms of the number of points and probably an honourable mention to Nick Daicos, who also broke a record. So, look, it was a special night and congratulations to everyone.

    KARL STEFANOVIC: Good on you ladies. Thank you so much. I really appreciate it.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Competition Bureau wins deceptive marketing case against Cineplex

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    Today, the Competition Tribunal ruled in favour of the Competition Bureau and found that Cineplex engaged in drip pricing by adding a mandatory $1.50 online booking fee.

    Cineplex ordered to pay a record penalty of nearly $39 million dollars

    September 23, 2024 – GATINEAU, QC – Competition Bureau

    Today, the Competition Tribunal ruled in favour of the Competition Bureau and found that Cineplex engaged in drip pricing by adding a mandatory $1.50 online booking fee.

    The Tribunal determined that the representations on Cineplex’s website and mobile application constituted drip pricing and that consumers were deceived by contradictory and incomplete information on Cineplex’s tickets page.

    As part of its ruling, the Tribunal ordered Cineplex to pay a financial penalty of over $38.9 million dollars and legal costs. The penalty is equivalent to the amount Cineplex collected from consumers from the introduction of the online booking fee in June 2022 until December 2023.

    Consumers are entitled to clear information, and should never be surprised by hidden or additional fees. When businesses engage in false or misleading practices, it harms competition and businesses who comply with the law. 

    • The Tribunal ordered Cineplex not to engage in the conduct or similar conduct for a period of 10 years.

    • Following an investigation, the Bureau filed an application with the Competition Tribunal, on May 18, 2023, seeking, among other things, for Cineplex to stop its deceptive advertising.

    • Amendments to the Competition Act came into force on June 24, 2022, which explicitly recognize drip pricing as a harmful business practice.

    • Drip pricing involves offering low prices to attract consumers, but then adding mandatory fees so that the prices are unattainable. This practice is against the Act, unless the additional fixed charges or fees are imposed by the government on purchasers, such as sales tax.

    • The Bureau has taken action against drip pricing for many years under the Deceptive Marketing Practices provisions of the Competition Act, notably in the car rental, satellite radio subscriptions, online sporting and entertainment ticketing industries.

    • The Bureau recently issued a consumer alert to raise awareness and reporting of drip pricing.

    • We strongly encourage anyone who suspects that a company or individual is making false or misleading price claims to report it by using the Bureau’s online complaint form.

    The Competition Bureau is an independent law enforcement agency that protects and promotes competition for the benefit of Canadian consumers and businesses. Competition drives lower prices and innovation while fuelling economic growth.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: State Government to extend subsidies for commercial air flights in Western NSW

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 24 September 2024

    Released by: Minister for Agriculture, Minister for Regional NSW, Minister for Western New South Wales

    The Minns Government is continuing work to support Western NSW communities with the announcement today the $2 million subsidy scheme for commercial flights in Western NSW will continue at least until November 2025.

    The agreement will allow for the continuation of subsidies on flights from Dubbo to Bourke, Walgett and Lightning Ridge operated by Air Link and from Sydney to Cobar operated by FlyPelican.

    The NSW Government and the Far North-West Joint Organisation (FNWJO) subsidy agreement will provide residents, workers and industry in Western NSW with continued access to air services helping to reduce travel times in rural and remote NSW.

    Subsidised air travel is vital for the delivery of essential services such as health, childcare, justice, family and community services, with doctors, specialists, nurses and social workers among the frequent fliers travelling to and from Western NSW.

    As part of the Government’s continued commitment to Western NSW, work is also underway to deliver the Regional Development Trust $15 million Airstrips Improvement Package.

    The package will upgrade rural and remote airstrips to improve access for emergency services, health professionals and other essential services in some of the most remote parts of the state.

    An audit of remote and rural airstrips across 19 local government areas and the unincorporated area in Western NSW is underway to prioritise those most in need of upgrades.

    Work on the airstrips and related infrastructure is expected to start before the end of the year.

    Minister for Agriculture, Regional NSW and Western NSW, Tara Moriarty said:

    “For Sydneysiders, air travel is an easily accessible convenience but for people living in Western NSW it is not so easy.

    “This funding will help commercial operators offer a two-way service connecting regional NSW with essential workers, trades, and services that they often depend on.

    Independent member for Barwon, Roy Butler said:

    “Western Air Services flights provide people in remote areas with much-needed access to health services, social engagements, and major economic benefits to our primary industries.

    “For many people in my electorate these flights are not a luxury but an absolute necessity, especially given the vast distances people need to cover in the west of the state.

    “I want to thank the Minister for her understanding of the importance of this issue when I raised it with her, and for her following through to ensure the continuation of these vital air services.”

    Retiring Far North-West Joint Organisation Chairman, Councillor Barry Hollman said:

    “This is a very exciting announcement, and I thank the NSW Government and particularly the Minister for Western NSW, the Hon Tara Moriarty, MLC for her responsiveness.

    “Just as commuters on the recently opened Metro in Sydney described the new train service as ‘transformational’ and ‘life changing’, the same can be said about the provision of these air services to the remote far North West area of the State.

    “The Government has certainly gone the extra mile to assist our remote communities.

    Chief Executive Officer, Fly Pelican, Marty Hawley said:

    “Today we welcome this announcement from the NSW Government and we look forward to continuing to service these critical flights for the far North West region and its communities.

    “Flight services to our remote regions are critical, and we are very pleased with today’s announcement to ensure the far North West region remains connected.”

    General Manager, Air Link Airlines, Ron O’Brien said:

    “This funding plays a crucial role in maintaining reliable air services that are lifelines for the communities of Bourke, Walgett, and Lightning Ridge.

    “Regional air services help to bridge distances and improve quality of life for residents in regional NSW by facilitating economic development and enhanced connectivity for businesses and residents alike.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Interview with Ali Moore, Melbourne Drive, ABC Radio

    Source: Australian Treasurer

    ALI MOORE:

    Dr Andrew Leigh is Assistant Minister for Competition, Charities and Treasury. Minister, welcome.

    ANDREW LEIGH:

    G’day, Ali.

    MOORE:

    First, before we get to the draft mandatory code, your response to the ACCC legal action launched today?

    LEIGH:

    These are incredibly serious allegations, Ali. I mean, we’re talking about 266 Woolies products, 245 Coles products, consumers would have paid millions of dollars for these products and if the specials are false specials, as the ACCC is claiming, then that’s incredibly serious for what it means for consumers.

    You know, just to give you one sort of concrete example, which is in the ACCC’s media release, they talk about Oreos being sold at $3.50 a pack for about a year, then temporarily spiked up to $5 a pack, dropped down to $4.50, which was then advertised as ‘price dropped’. That doesn’t look like a real special to me. So, obviously this will be tested before the courts, but if it’s found that Coles and Woolies have breached the law, then they deserve every penalty that’s thrown at them. Australians are under cost‑of‑living pressures they deserve to get specials that are real specials.

    MOORE:

    Well, we’ve had lots of people text with examples today. I don’t know who does the shopping in your family, Andrew Leigh, but have you had your own suspicions about this sort of thing?

    LEIGH:

    Look, my wife and I do the shopping. She does the online, and I tend to do the in‑person. And, yeah, there was now specials – they’re certainly been something that’s been under appropriate scrutiny. As government, it’s not up to us to do the enforcement. That’s the ACCC’s job and Gina Cass‑Gottlieb does a great job of it.

    It’s our job to make sure they have the right resources and the sufficient penalties. So, one of the first things we did when we came to office was to increase the penalties for anti‑competitive conduct, raising those penalties and so they weren’t just a cost of doing business. And people can see in the ACCC’s media release today that they say very explicitly that for half the period in which they’re looking at, the penalties are higher. A direct result of the Albanese government increasing the penalties for anti‑competitive conduct.

    MOORE:

    Andrew Leigh, today, at the same time, as I just said, you have released a draft of legislation that essentially follows a review of a voluntary code of conduct by Craig Emerson. You followed most or all of his recommendations and this code will be made mandatory?

    LEIGH:

    That’s right. So, under the Liberals and Nationals, it was a voluntary code – effectively toothless, effectively without penalties. What we’re doing now is making it a mandatory code. And so, we’re getting a fairer deal, not only for families, but also for farmers. Previously, farmers had feared retribution because, who complains under a voluntary code when the risk is that you can lose your contract with the supplier? So, now we’re bringing in place a code with teeth, a code that will actually get a fairer deal for farmers. We’re putting in place code mediators. We’re ensuring that there is an ability to complain directly to the competition watchdog, to make anonymous complaints there, and greater protections for fresh produce suppliers. If you’re supplying berries to the supermarket, Ali, you’ve got that problem that your berries might well go off in a couple of weeks. So, we’re ensuring obligations for supermarkets to specify the basis for determining prices, to conduct their forecasts with due care, and to have reasonable quality standards.

    MOORE:

    So the arbiter will be the ACCC if there’s an anonymous process for whistleblowers, if they’ve got a complaint, that’s where they’ll go?

    LEIGH:

    Well, there’ll be code mediators, currently known as code arbiters. And then there’s also this additional ability for people to make an anonymous complaint to the ACCC. So, it’s a much more robust code than was in place under the Liberals and Nationals. We take much more seriously than they did the allegations that are being raised by farmers and the concerns among shoppers, that they want to make sure that farmers are getting a fair deal as they supply to these major supermarkets. It’s one of the most concentrated supermarket sectors in the world. We’ve got to do more for consumers and for farmers.

    MOORE:

    What will be the standard of proof, though? I mean, sometimes these things are not always in black‑and‑white.

    LEIGH:

    The standard proof will be the usual balance of probabilities as it is in the civil law. And one of the things that Craig Emerson has done is to deal with a constitutional challenge in this space by getting agreement from the 4 supermarkets and supermarket chains that are signed up that they will agree to the mediation process with penalties up to $5 million. It’s a real credit to Craig that he’s able to do that, and that allows us to better deal with disputes under the code.

    MOORE:

    So, if a supermarket does the wrong thing by a supplier, what sort of penalty could they face?

    LEIGH:

    $5 million. So, the agreement that they have made is that the code mediator can impose penalties going up to $5 million, and then also we have penalties that can be imposed more broadly, they will go up to $50 million.

    MOORE:

    And when will the code of conduct come into force?

    LEIGH:

    We’ll expect that to come in the coming months. We’re a consultative government. Obviously, whenever we take actions that affect stakeholders, we give them a chance to comment. People have the chance to comment on this mandatory code and to give their feedback in the way in which we’ve said about implementing Craig Emerson’s review. Craig Emerson’s the former Competition Minister. He’s done a power of work on this. We want to make sure that we get the best deal we can for families and for farmers.

    MOORE:

    Andrew Leigh, thanks for joining us.

    LEIGH:

    Pleasure, Ali. Thanks again.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Early works for Currumbin Waters intersection upgrade

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    Early works are set to begin in preparation to upgrade the Currumbin Creek Road and Bienvenue Drive intersection, on the Gold Coast.

    Weather and construction conditions permitting, the early works which will include tree and vegetation clearing, and relocating water and power utilities are expected to begin later this month.

    The upgrade, which will help to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion at this busy Currumbin Waters intersection, will be welcomed by local residents.

    Main works being undertaken will include:

    • The addition of a signalised left turn slip lane from Currumbin Creek Road into Bienvenue Drive.
    • Increased capacity for vehicles turning right from Bienvenue Drive into Currumbin Creek Road.
    • Extending the right turn lane into Bienvenue Drive.

    The intersection will also be made safer for pedestrians and cyclists with the addition of a new bike lane on Currumbin Creek Road and a signalised pedestrian crossing at the intersection.

    Upgrades to existing pedestrian ramps within the intersection, footpath construction and drainage improvements are also planned.

    Construction on the upgrade is expected to start in early 2025.

    The tender for construction works is being released in late 2024 and can be viewed at https://etender.hpw.qld.gov.au/.

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

    “Across Queensland and here in Currumbin we are getting on with the job of delivering the transport infrastructure local residents need and deserve.

    “With early works starting and the upgrade expected to get underway early next year, people living in Currumbin Waters will get where they need to go safer and sooner.”

    Quotes attributable to Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Bart Mellish:

    “The $10 million upgrade is jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland governments, showing our commitment to upgrading roads in south east Queensland.

    “Once complete this upgrade will improve safety for surrounding residents and road users.

    “These necessary upgrades may cause some disruption whilst under construction, but my department and the contractor will work with surrounding residents to ensure impacts are mitigated wherever we possibly can.

    “We would like to thank road users and the local community for their patience during these works.”

    Quotes attributable to Senator for Queensland Murray Watt:

    “This intersection upgrade at Currumbin will deliver much-needed safety benefits, improve traffic flow and reduce congestion for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians alike. It’s great to see it get underway soon.

    “The Albanese and Miles Governments are committed to significantly reducing the number of deaths and serious injuries on our roads, and improving road safety at this busy intersection is a great example of that commitment in action.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Competition Bureau wins case against Cineplex in deceptive marketing practices case

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Government of Canada – in French

    Today, the Competition Tribunal ruled in favour of the Competition Bureau and found that Cineplex made partial price representations by adding a mandatory $1.50 online booking fee.

    Cineplex ordered to pay record fine of nearly $39 million

    September 23, 2024, GATINEAU, Quebec, Competition Bureau

    Today, the Competition Tribunal ruled in favour of the Competition Bureau and found that Cineplex made partial price representations by adding a mandatory $1.50 online booking fee.

    The Tribunal determined that the representations on Cineplex’s website and mobile application constituted partial price representations and that consumers were misled by the contradictory and incomplete information on Cineplex’s ticket page.

    As part of its decision, the Tribunal ordered Cineplex to pay a monetary penalty of more than $38.9 million as well as legal costs. The penalty is equal to the amount Cineplex collected from consumers since the introduction of the online booking fee in June 2022 until December 2023.

    Consumers deserve clear information and should never be surprised by hidden or additional fees. When businesses engage in false or misleading practices, they harm competition and law-abiding businesses.

    The Court ordered Cineplex not to engage in the relevant conduct or similar conduct for a period of 10 years.

    Following an investigation, the Office has filed an application to the Competition Tribunal on May 18, 2023 to, among other things, have Cineplex cease its misleading advertising.

    Amendments to the Competition Act that came into force on June 24, 2022 explicitly recognize partial pricing as a harmful business practice.

    Partial pricing involves offering low prices to attract consumers, but then adding mandatory fees so that the advertised prices are unobtainable. This practice is against the Act unless the additional fixed fees are imposed on buyers by the government, such as sales tax.

    The Bureau has already taken action against partial pricing over the years under the deceptive marketing provisions of the Competition Act, particularly in the car rental, of the satellite radio subscriptions, and of the ticket sales online for sporting events and shows.

    The Office recently published a consumer alert to raise public awareness about cases of partial price indication and to promote their reporting.

    We strongly encourage anyone who suspects that a business or individual is making false or misleading pricing claims to report it through our online complaint form.

    Media Inquiries: Media Relations Email:media-cb-bc@cb-bc.gc.ca

    The Competition Bureau is an independent law enforcement agency that protects and promotes competition for the benefit of Canadian consumers and businesses. Competition leads to lower prices, innovation and economic growth.

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: FS continues to visit Madrid, Spain (with photos/video)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    FS continues to visit Madrid, Spain (with photos/video)
    FS continues to visit Madrid, Spain (with photos/video)
    *******************************************************

         ​The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, continued his visit to Madrid, Spain, yesterday (September 23, Madrid time).     Mr Chan visited the Plenary of the City Council of Madrid yesterday and met with its President, Mr Francisco de Borja Fanjul Fernández-Pita. They exchanged views on strengthening co-operation between the two places. Mr Chan presented the latest developments in Hong Kong across various sectors and noted that, with staunch support from the Central Government, the “One Country, Two Systems” arrangement will continue to be implemented in Hong Kong in the long run. He emphasised that Hong Kong will maintain an international, open and friendly business environment practising the common law. Mr Chan expressed hope for enhancing mutually beneficial co-operation in areas such as finance, innovation and technology (I&T), culture, and education. He also welcomed Spanish enterprises to invest in Hong Kong and leverage it to explore the vast markets of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, broader Mainland China, and Asia.     In the afternoon, Mr Chan called on the Chinese Ambassador to Spain, Mr Yao Jing. Mr Chan briefed Ambassador Yao the latest situation in Hong Kong, as well as its development direction and strategies. They had in-depth exchanges on topics including economic and trade co-operation between China and Spain, and promoting collaboration in business and I&T between Hong Kong and Spain.     Mr Chan then met with Mr José Moisés Martín Carretero, the Director General of the Centro para el Desarrollo Tecnológico y la Innovación (CDTI). The CDTI provides funding support for projects aligned with Spain’s I&T development strategy, and promotes technological co-operation between Spain and other countries and regions. Mr Chan highlighted the progress Hong Kong has made in recent years by investing substantially in I&T, and presented the support provided by Hong Kong’s full-spectrum financial services to I&T enterprises and projects at various development stages. They also exchanged ideas on strengthening co-operation on technology projects and the matching of funds with projects.     In the morning, Mr Chan led the delegation of technology startups to visit Wayra, one of Spain’s innovation accelerators and venture capital funds, where he met with its investment team leaders. Through its global network, Wayra helps startups connect with technology and capital worldwide and provides guidance to expand their markets. During the meeting, Wayra’s technology and investment teams introduced the organisation’s operations and development strategies, and both sides discussed ways to promote mutual co-operation. Mr Chan expressed hope that the visit would facilitate better connections between the I&T ecosystems of both places and create more practical collaboration opportunities for their startups.     The Chairman of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), Dr Peter Lam; the Executive Director of the HKTDC, Ms Margaret Fong; the Chief Executive Officer of the Hong Kong Science and Techlogy Parks Corporation, Mr Albert Wong; the Chief Public Mission Officer of Cyberport, Mr Eric Chan, and the Special Representative for Hong Kong Economic and Trade Affairs to the European Union, Miss Shirley Yung, participated in all or parts of the visit above.     Mr Chan will continue his visit in Madrid today (September 24, Madrid time), including attending a themed business luncheon organised by the HKTDC to promote Hong Kong’s advantages to local political, business, financial, and innovation communities.

     
    Ends/Tuesday, September 24, 2024Issued at HKT 9:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ADB Joins Partnership for a Lead-Free Future

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    MANILA, PHILIPPINES (24 September 2024) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) today announced a set of actions to mainstream lead exposure mitigation into its operations, as part of its participation in the newly formed Partnership for a Lead-Free Future, a global initiative led by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The partnership aims to eliminate childhood lead exposure by 2040.

    The initiative, launched at the United Nations General Assembly today, will target high-risk countries including Bangladesh, Indonesia, India, and Nepal, among others throughout Asia and the Pacific.

    ADB’s participation in the partnership underscores its ongoing commitment to addressing health and environmental challenges in developing Asia and the Pacific. Lead contamination, particularly from informal used lead-acid battery recycling sites, presents a major health crisis. Toxic lead exposure is affecting at least 400 million children in the region, leading to cognitive impairments, health complications, and major economic losses. The global economic cost of lead-related cognitive underdevelopment is estimated at about $1 trillion annually.

    “Lead exposure doesn’t just affect children’s health—it holds back entire economies,” said ADB Vice-President for East and Southeast Asia, and the Pacific Scott Morris. “The Partnership for a Lead-Free Future is an important step in addressing this environmental, health, and economic issue. We will dedicate ADB’s expertise and resources to help ensure that countries across Asia and the Pacific can mitigate lead exposure, enhance public health, and secure a healthier, more productive future for all.”

    ADB is embedding lead management into its broader environmental safeguards and technical assistance programs, and has already begun engaging with governments in Indonesia, India, and the Philippines to tackle lead contamination. The bank will co-host a technical side event on lead pollution at the 12th Asia Pacific Regional Forum on Health and Environment in Jakarta on 25 September, which will serve as a platform to advance the lead elimination agenda. Co-organized with the governments of Indonesia, Japan and Thailand, USAID, and the World Bank, the forum will highlight cutting-edge research on lead exposure and showcase effective strategies for reducing lead poisoning. 

    In collaboration with the Global Environment Facility and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization, ADB is also developing the Chemical and Wastes Financing Partnership Facility, the first of its kind. This facility will scale chemical management, including lead mitigation, across the region. The initiative complements ADB’s work in managing hazardous waste, providing governments with the resources to regulate industries, replace hazardous materials, and enforce environmental standards.

    ADB plans to integrate lead elimination into its universal health care support programs, starting in the Philippines. Through these programs, ADB has been working to ensure equitable access to health services, address gender-specific health needs, and mitigate the health impacts of climate change.

    ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 68 members—49 from the region.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s Dunhuang Academy celebrates 80th founding anniversary

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Tourists visit the Mogao Grottoes in Dunhuang, northwest China’s Gansu Province, March 16, 2024. (Xinhua/Zhang Zhimin)

    China’s Dunhuang Academy, a comprehensive national institution for the conservation, management and research of the world-famous grottoes in Gansu Province, held a meeting on Monday to celebrate the 80th anniversary of its founding.

    The meeting reviewed the history of the Dunhuang Academy over the past eight decades and called for the future high-quality development of the academy.

    While delivering remarks, Xie Bing, deputy head of China’s National Cultural Heritage Administration (NCHA), praised the academy’s contributions to cultural heritage protection, academic studies and education.

    Xie also urged efforts to promote the innovative transformation and development of Dunhuang’s cultural sector, as well as efforts to foster more talent capable of providing intellectual support to this high-quality development.

    Attendees at the meeting included representatives of the NCHA, relevant government departments in Gansu, and higher education and cultural heritage institutions. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China adds over 30,000 rural place names to protection lists

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    More than 30,000 old rural place names have been added to China’s protection lists since a rural geographic naming project was launched last year, a senior official of the Ministry of Civil Affairs (MCA) said Monday.
    Tang Chengpei, vice minister of civil affairs, said at a press conference that the project, which collects rural place names and inputs them into maps, aimed to improve geographic naming and cultural protection in rural areas.
    As of August this year, the government had standardized the naming of 430,000 locations, installed 330,000 place name signs, and placed 14.42 million building and door plaques in rural areas under the project, Tang said.
    He added that as the project was promoted, more nameless rural places and places with multiple names had obtained their own standardized names.
    The government has also provided guides for online map services to present correct and consistent rural place names, which has facilitated backpacking and road trips in rural areas as well as the delivery of both parcels into villages and rural goods to urban areas, Tang said.
    Benefiting from the naming project, many places have created a range of geographic brands of agricultural products, and rural place naming has been integrated with the development of rural e-commerce and agricultural tourism, he added.
    The MCA announced the launch of the rural place naming project as a measure to advance rural revitalization in May 2023. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s top political advisor urges advancing political consultative conference system

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Wang Huning, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee, presides over a brain-storming session of the Chairpersons’ Council of the CPPCC National Committee and delivers a speech, Sept. 23, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    China’s top political advisor Wang Huning on Monday urged efforts to uphold and advance the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) system and fully tap into the CPPCC’s political strength.
    Wang, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the CPPCC National Committee, made the remarks while addressing a brain-storming session of the Chairpersons Council of the CPPCC National Committee.
    Wang urged efforts to ensure the integration of Party leadership, the united front and consultative democracy, promote high-quality development of the CPPCC, and give better play to the CPPCC’s role as a specialized consultative body.
    Wang also called for efforts to strengthen confidence in the path, theory, system, and culture of socialism with Chinese characteristics, and to maintain a lively, stable, and united political atmosphere.
    Efforts should be made to deliberate and offer suggestions on advancing Chinese modernization, raise the efficacy of democratic oversight, and refine the working systems and mechanisms of the CPPCC, Wang said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Emory S. Land Departs HMAS Stirling Following Submarine Maintenance

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    HMAS STIRLING, Western Australia  –  

    The submarine tender USS Emory S. Land (AS 39) departed from HMAS Stirling, Western Australia, after a regularly scheduled port call, Sept. 14. HMAS Stirling was the seventh port call in Australia of Emory S. Land’s current deployment, which began May 17.

    Emory S. Land arrived at HMAS Stirling Aug. 16 with a mixed crew of active-duty and Reserve U.S. Navy Sailors, Royal Australian Navy sailors and Military Sealift Command civil service mariners to conduct a submarine tended maintenance period (STMP) with Virginia-class fast-attack submarine USS Hawaii (SSN 776).

    “It was a great experience working with our Australian counterparts, expanding the sustainment options for U.S. SSNs while helping the Royal Australian Navy prepare for Submarine Rotational Force – West and eventually their own Virginia-class submarines,” said Capt. Brent Spillner, commanding officer of Emory S. Land. “We have a lot of very complementary aims and capabilities, and it was very rewarding to find new ways to support each other’s fleets.”

    The STMP marked a significant step toward Australia gaining the capability to operate, maintain, and support a fleet of sovereign conventionally armed SSNs, which is a central requirement in executing Pillar 1 of the AUKUS security partnership between Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States.

    During the STMP, Australian Sailors who have been attached to the submarine tender since January took the lead on conducting repairs aboard USS Hawaii. Emory S. Land also worked in conjunction with the Royal Australian Navy’s Fleet Support Unit-West at HMAS Stirling, which provides repair and maintenance services to the Australian fleet.

    “The work that we’ve done during the STMP is critical in demonstrating the tasks required to repair and sustain nuclear powered submarines,” said Cmdr. Calvin Hargadine, Emory S. Land’s repair officer. “The Royal Australian Navy sailors embedded with Emory S. Land were directly involved with each of the jobs accomplished during the availability, highlighting the interchangeability and proficiency of these sailors in conducting maintenance on these vessels. They became a part of our crew while they were here for over seven months and became family in a short amount of time. It is sad to see them go, but I know they’re going to be doing great things when they get back to their own fleet.”

    At the end of Emory S. Land’s port call, the Royal Australian Navy sailors bid farewell to their American counterparts and returned to their parent commands around Australia.

    “I think that the skillset that we learned and the experiences that we got will help the Royal Australian Navy in a number of ways,” said LEUT Joseph Melbin, the officer in charge of the Australian detachment aboard the submarine tender. “The biggest one is not necessarily on the technical front, but more so on the social front in terms of the connections we’ve made with the crew aboard as well as the differences that we learned from each other in the engineering systems that we use.”

    For the STMP, Melbin assumed the position as the ship’s production maintenance assistant, a vital role tasked with coordinating and communicating all major repairs performed on the submarine.

    “The Fleet Support Unit is very, very good at what they do, and it was a pleasure to work with them throughout this exchange program,” said Spillner. “LEUT Melbin and his team really took the reins and made the STMP a success, performing just as well as USN personnel who’ve been doing this work far longer. There’s already a high degree of trust and interchangeability between our navies, and I’m sure we’ll only draw closer in the future. It really is exciting to have such capable and energetic partners and to be able to more rapidly exchange new technologies and best practices with each other.”

    While with Emory S. Land, Royal Australian Navy sailors were trained within the repair department of the ship, working in varying divisions such as the hull maintenance division, electrical repair division and the ship’s mechanical repair division.

    Royal Australian Navy Able Seaman Marine Technician April Franklin commented on the goal of working side-by-side with her U.S. counterparts stating, “The main mission overall was to get as many skills and integrate as best as we could with the Emory S. Land Sailors and adapt as much as we could, and I think we’ve definitely done that. I think we went above and beyond, and exceeded.”

    Also embedded with the crew of the submarine tender were U.S. Navy Reservists. For this portion of the deployment, 66 Reservists activated and mobilized to HMAS Stirling to assist with repairs and ship husbandry.

    “I joined the Navy for a sense of service and to be a part of something bigger than myself,” said Machinist’s Mate 1st Class Bryan Overton, one of the Reservists. “The best part of active duty was experiencing the submarine community and the camaraderie the community offers.”

    While the STMP was a pivotal part of the port call, Sailors were also able to strengthen cultural ties with the Australian public by participating in community relation events (COMREL) such as volunteering at the food bank, cleaning enclosures at a zoo, and playing sports with local organizations in order to foster collaboration and understanding between the U.S. Navy and local communities.

    “I took part in two Ronald McDonald House COMRELs, helping out by cooking in the kitchen,” said Machinery Repairman 2nd Class Sean Reese. “It is a good feeling to know that I was there to make a difference for the local kids and families in Australia. That is an experience worth doing every time.”

    While moored at HMAS Stirling, Emory S. Land also hosted a series of tours to a wide range of guests, including Prime Minister Albanese, several other cabinet members, senior military leaders including Acting Undersecretary of the U.S. Navy Thomas Mancinelli, Chief of the Royal Australian Navy Vice Adm. Mark Hammond, and Director-General of the Australian Submarine Agency Vice Adm. Jonathan Mead, as well as a wide range of international diplomats, state and local government officials, business leaders, academics, civic groups, and media.

    “I am very proud to be able to show our medical capabilities during tours, because when people think of military medicine, they think of medics, who are more specialized, whereas Corpsmen, we can bounce back and forth between many specialties,” said Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Oriana Winebrinner. “Showing people that we have the capabilities and training onboard to save lives was an incredibly proud moment.”

    During the previous five months, Emory S. Land conducted scheduled port calls in Darwin, Cairns, Sydney, Eden, Melbourne, and Adelaide. The ship’s Sailors had the opportunity to volunteer in the community, host tours, and repair allied nations’ ships in these cities. Emory S. Land is on deployment supporting the U.S. 7th Fleet, the U.S. Navy’s largest forward deployed numbered fleet, operating with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region. Emory S. Land provides expeditionary intermediate-level maintenance, services, and logistics support to deployed submarines.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA to Open Business Recovery Centers in Gonzales and Donaldsonville to Help Businesses Impacted by Hurricane Francine

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration today announced the opening of its SBA Business Recovery Centers in Gonzales on Tuesday, Sept. 24 and Donaldsonville on Wednesday, Sept. 25, to provide a wide range of services to businesses impacted by Hurricane Francine that occurred Sept. 9 – 12.

    “Due to the severe property damage and economic losses inflicted on Louisiana businesses, we want to provide every available service to help get them back on their feet,” said Francisco Sánchez, Jr., associate administrator for the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the Small Business Administration. “The centers will provide a one-stop location for businesses to access a variety of specialized help. SBA customer service representatives will be available to meet individually with each business owner,” he added. No appointment is necessary. All services are provided free of charge. The centers will open as indicated below.

    ASCENSION PARISH
    Business Recovery Center
    Ascension Credit Union
    Small Business Center
    2430 S. Burnside Ave.
    Gonzales, LA  70737

    Opens at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 24

    Mondays – Tuesdays, 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

     

    ASCENSION PARISH
    Business Recovery Center
    Ascension Credit Union
    2256 LA-70
    Donaldsonville, LA  70346

    Opens at 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 25

    Wednesdays – Fridays, 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

    According to Louisiana’s Small Business Development Center’s State Director Bryan Greenwood, SBDC business advisors will provide business assistance to clients on a wide variety of matters designed to help small business owners re-establish their operations, overcome the effects of the disaster and plan for their future. Services include assessing business working capital needs, evaluating the business’s strength, cash flow projections, and most importantly, a review of options with the business owner to help them evaluate their alternatives and make decisions that are appropriate for their situation.

    Businesses of any size and private nonprofit organizations may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets. These loans cover losses that are not fully covered by insurance or other recoveries.

    For small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture, and most private, nonprofit organizations of any size, SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. Economic Injury Disaster Loan assistance is available regardless of whether the business suffered any property damage.

    Interest rates can be as low as 4 percent for businesses, 3.25 percent for private nonprofit organizations and 2.813 percent for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Loan amounts and terms are set by SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    Interest does not begin to accrue until 12 months from the date of the first disaster loan disbursement. SBA disaster loan repayment begins 12 months from the date of the first disbursement.

    SBA representatives will also provide help to business owners and residents at disaster recovery centers when they are opened in the impacted area.

    In addition, applicants may apply online and receive additional disaster assistance information at SBA.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    The deadline to apply for property damage is Nov. 18, 2024. The deadline to apply for economic injury is June 16, 2025.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: The ‘publish or perish’ mentality is fuelling research paper retractions – and undermining science

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nham Tran, Associate Professor and MTP Connect REDI Industry Fellow, University of Technology Sydney

    zefart/Shutterstock

    When scientists make important discoveries, both big and small, they typically publish their findings in scientific journals for others to read. This sharing of knowledge helps to advance science: it can, in turn, lead to more important discoveries.

    But published research papers can be retracted if there is an issue with their accuracy or integrity. And in recent years, the number of retractions has been rising sharply. For example, in 2023 more than 10,000 research papers were retracted globally. This marked a new record.

    The huge number of retractions indicates a lot of government research funding is being wasted. More importantly, the publication of so much flawed research also misleads other researchers and undermines scientific integrity.

    Fuelling this troubling trend is a mentality known in academia as “publish or perish” which has existed for decades. The publication of research papers drives university rankings and career progression, yet the relentless pressure to publish has contributed to an increase in fraudulent data. Unless this changes, the entire research landscape may shift toward a less rigorous standard, hindering vital progress in fields such as medicine, technology and climate science.

    A ‘publish or perish’ environment

    Universities and research institutes commonly use the rate of publications as a key indicator of research productivity and reputation.

    The Times Higher Education Index, which ranks these institutions, assigns 60% of its score to research, and publications are fundamental to this score.

    Additionally, publications are closely tied to individual career advancement. They influence decisions on tenure, promotions and securing funding.

    These factors create a “publish or perish” environment, a term first coined in 1942 by sociologist Logan Wilson.

    A growing trend

    Recent evidence indicates the constant pressure to generate data and publish papers may be affecting the quality of research and fuelling retractions of research papers.

    Retraction Watch is one of the largest databases to monitor scientific retractions. Launched in 2010, it reveals a growing trend in the number of publications being retracted.

    In the past decade, there have been more than 39,000 retractions, and the annual number of retractions is growing by around 23% each year.

    Nearly half the retractions were due to issues related to the authenticity of the data. For example, in August the United States Office of Research Integrity found that Richard Eckert, a senior biochemist at the University of Maryland, Baltimore, faked data in 13 published papers. Four of these papers have been corrected, one has been retracted and the remainder are still awaiting action.

    Plagiarism was the second most common reason research papers were retracted, accounting for 16% of retractions.

    Fake peer review was another reason why research papers were retracted.

    Typically, when a publication is submitted to a journal, it undergoes peer review by experts in the same field. These experts provide feedback to improve the quality of the work.

    However, the use of fake peer reviewers has increased tenfold over the past decade. There has also been an eightfold rise in publications linked to so-called “paper mills”, which are businesses that provide fake papers for a fee.

    In 2022, up to 2% of all publications were from paper mills.

    Genuine mistakes in the scientific process accounted for only roughly 6% of all retractions in the last decade.

    More pressure, more mistakes

    One reason for the surge in retractions over the last decade may be that we are getting better at finding and detecting suspicious data.

    Digital publishing has made it easier to detect potential fabrication, and more scientists are making a brave stand against these dubious practices. No doubt, the current number of retractions is an underestimate of a much larger pool.

    But the intensification of the “publish or perish” culture within universities also plays a major role.

    Nearly all academic staff are required to meet specific publication quotas for performance evaluations, while institutions themselves use publication output to boost their rankings. High publication counts and citations enhance a university’s position in global rankings, attracting more students and generating income from teaching.

    The prevailing reward system in academia often prioritises publication quantity over quality. When promotions, funding, and recognition are tied to the number of papers published, scientists may feel pressured to cut corners, rush experiments, or even fabricate data to meet these metrics.

    Changing the model

    Initiatives such as the San Francisco Declaration on Research Assessment are pushing for change. This initiative advocates for evaluating research based on its quality and societal impact rather than journal-based metrics such as impact factors or citation counts.

    A shift in journal policies to prioritise the sharing of all experimental data would enhance scientific integrity. It would ensure researchers could replicate experiments to verify others’ results.

    Academics face increasing pressure to publish journal articles to advance their careers.
    Protasov AN/Shutterstock

    Also, universities, research institutions and funding agencies need to improve their due diligence and hold those responsible for misconduct accountable.

    Including a simple question such as, “Have you ever had or been involved in a retracted paper?” on grant applications or academic promotions would improve the integrity of research by deterring unethical behaviour. Dishonest answers could be easily detected, thanks to the availability of online tools and databases such as Retraction Watch.

    Over the past 20 years, scientific research has significantly improved our quality of life. Career scientists must shoulder the responsibility of ensuring researchers uphold the values of truth and integrity that are fundamental to our profession. Protecting the integrity of our work is foremost to our mission, and we must remain vigilant in safeguarding these principles.

    Nham Tran receives funding from the Australian Research Council

    – ref. The ‘publish or perish’ mentality is fuelling research paper retractions – and undermining science – https://theconversation.com/the-publish-or-perish-mentality-is-fuelling-research-paper-retractions-and-undermining-science-238983

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ‘Who looks after me?’ More than 40% of disability carers have disability themselves – and they need more support

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Susan Collings, Senior Research Fellow, Transforming early Education and Child Health Research Centre, Western Sydney University

    Yiistocking/Shutterstock

    Caring for someone with disability is a complex and demanding task. The latest Australian Bureau of Statistics figures show this role is increasingly being undertaken by people who have disability themselves. There were 1.2 million primary carers in Australia in 2022, and of these, 43.8% have disability (up from 32.1% in 2018).

    Disability support and aged care are critical issues for the federal government right now. The new Aged Care Act will take effect in July next year and amendments to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Act roll out from early October.

    A National Carers Strategy, recognising the demands placed on informal carers and the need for better supports, is also being developed.

    What do this group of carers need? And are they getting the right kind of support?

    Invisible labour

    Three million Australians currently provide informal care for loved ones with disability, medical conditions, mental illness or frailty from ageing.

    In line with our ageing population, one in six carers are over 65 and most older Australians want to age “in place” at home. This means informal care needs are set to rise exponentially.

    Improved diagnosis, more disclosure of disability status and higher prevalence of health conditions leading to disability are increasing the numbers of and demands on informal carers.

    Who is doing the caring and why?

    While both women (12.8% of the population) and men (11.1%) provide informal care, women are more likely to be primary carers (6.1% are women, 3% are men.

    Primary carers are less likely to be in paid employment than non-carers (64.6% to 82%), and fewer than half of those caring for 40 hours or more a week are employed. Informal carers are more likely to have a disability or chronic health condition (38.6%) than the general population (21.4%), with even higher rates among primary carers (43.8%).

    The main reasons for becoming a carer are a sense of family responsibility and emotional obligation. Over a third of those caring for their child say they have no other choice.

    We analysed qualitative data from the 2022 National Carer Survey conducted by Carers NSW.

    Of 6,825 respondents from across Australia, over 80% were women and almost half (47.6%) identified as having disability or long-term health conditions, which the survey combines. Disability and poor health among carers are associated with higher levels of emotional distress and greater difficulty in accessing services.

    Most carers are women and their caring load may prevent them doing paid work.
    Desizned/Shutterstock

    ‘My prospect of earning an income and saving is bleak’

    Statistics tell us only part of the story. The voices of informal carers who report living with disability or chronic health conditions shed light on the layered demands they face. They reported that care is often invisible, undervalued and ceaseless. One woman, aged 73, described informal care as “hard and unappreciated work”.

    A lack of government support and financial uncertainty left many despairing. As one carer, aged 56, said:

    No government recognises us and in the end we are saving them billions/trillions of dollars […] I have been a carer for over 13 years and it will go on for many years, so my prospect of earning an income and saving is bleak.

    Caring can have profound health and wellbeing effects. As another woman, aged 56, said:

    Being close to retirement myself, and having elderly parents, puts so much strain on my own health, mentally and physically. I have had to deal with breast cancer and its treatments and ongoing side effects. This is really stressful. I oversee all the services, and manage ongoing issues. My care role is endless. I only work minimal hours myself due to my care role. Who looks after me?

    Caring for carers

    Carers with disability or chronic health conditions report a lack of appropriate, accessible and timely services. This makes it hard to meet their own health-care needs. Many struggle with arranging support across mainstream and NDIS providers on behalf of the person they care for and themselves.

    Our research about the needs of a specific group of disabled Australians with care-giving responsibilities – parents with intellectual disability – find they can fall between system gaps when mainstream services are not accessible or the NDIS fails to take a family-centred approach.

    A parent with intellectual disability may struggle to understand complex and shifting eligibility rules and might be able to use their NDIS funding to assist with meal preparation for themselves but not for their child. As one mother with intellectual disability said:

    No one explained to me, ‘Oh, the NDIS package can help you with a lot of different things’, like helping with my parenting capacity.

    Changes and opportunity

    A cornerstone of the NDIS reforms is the creation of foundational supports. That’s good news for the 86% of disabled Australians without an NDIS plan and their informal carers, who rely on mainstream services like schools, health services and public transport.

    Likewise, the National Carers Strategy is an opportunity to ease some of the burden shouldered by many informal carers. By consulting with carers directly, services designed to meet their diverse needs and circumstances can be made available. In the immediate term, often carers reach crisis point before receiving support. Early interventions in the form of practical, everyday, orientated supports – including respite together with peer support – can help.

    Proper support for carer wellbeing and economic and social participation, from all levels of government, recognises the complex role carers play and their own support and health-care needs. These are only going to increase in the future.

    The authors wish to acknowledge the contribution of Sarah Judd-Lam and Lukas Hofstaetter from Carers NSW for their data and analysis contributions to this piece.

    Gabrielle Weidemann receives funding from the Australian Research Council and the Department of Defence. This funding is not for research on disability and/or care for those with disability.

    Elisabeth Duursma, Michelle O’Shea, and Susan Collings do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. ‘Who looks after me?’ More than 40% of disability carers have disability themselves – and they need more support – https://theconversation.com/who-looks-after-me-more-than-40-of-disability-carers-have-disability-themselves-and-they-need-more-support-236786

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: Shift toward new engines of growth underway

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Robots work on an assembly line of a factory of a private enterprise in Zouping City, east China’s Shandong Province, Sept. 13, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua]

    A sustained focus on supporting innovation in strategic emerging sectors, future industries and traditional industries will be high on the agenda as China advances its economic structural reforms, which are aimed at fostering new quality productive forces and driving a shift from old growth drivers to new ones, economists and entrepreneurs said.

    Economists said the new quality productive forces will serve as a key driver for boosting the country’s economic growth in the coming years, which will help offset the real estate downturn, accelerate the building of a modern industrial system and promote high-quality development in the long run.

    Huang Hanquan, head of the Chinese Academy of Macroeconomic Research, said that fostering new quality productive forces is of vital importance in promoting high-quality economic growth, boosting total factor productivity and realizing Chinese modernization.

    “Various regions and departments across China have embraced this approach to drive economic progress, which will significantly accelerate technological innovation, enhance industrial application and facilitate the shift of growth drivers from old to new ones,” Huang said.

    A new report says that despite geopolitical headwinds that are having an impact on China’s economic growth trajectory and momentum, the nation is achieving success by boosting investment in science and technology, as well as by refocusing its efforts to enhance capabilities in emerging industries including artificial intelligence, autonomous vehicles and electric vehicles, and this is key to reinvigorating China’s growth engine.

    According to the Milken Institute’s Best-Performing Cities China Index, cities that were home to a significant number of tech hubs displayed a high level of economic resilience. According to the report, Chinese cities that have strategically invested in emerging technologies will continue to thrive, even as the broader economy faces challenges at home and abroad.

    Highlighting that sci-tech innovation is a key element in the development of new quality productive forces, Huang from the Chinese Academy of Macroeconomic Research called for more efforts to achieve breakthroughs in core technologies by investing more in fundamental research and tackling choke points, and by stepping up reforms in the science and technology, education and talent systems.

    More efforts should also be made to advance reforms in the market-based allocation of production factors, allowing factors such as land, labor, capital and technology to flow freely and efficiently to fields of new quality productive forces, he said.

    Looking ahead, Huang said the country should foster new pillar industries, including next-generation information technology, new energy vehicles, new energy and new materials, to offset the impact of the decline in real estate on China’s economy and create new growth drivers.

    Huang’s remarks came after a resolution adopted in July at the third plenary session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China placed great emphasis on improving the institutions and mechanisms for fostering new quality productive forces in line with local conditions.

    Justin Yifu Lin, dean of Peking University’s Institute of New Structural Economics, said that regions with development gaps should measure their progress compared with their own past rather than shifting their focus to the pursuit of success in frontier activities, which could result in haphazard or uneven development.

    There are two types of new quality productive forces — one that invents new technologies and one that applies them, Lin said. Therefore, applying new technologies in traditional sectors should be treated as part of the drive to harness new quality productive forces, he added.

    “Regions with gaps in development should use new technologies to improve productivity. It’s essential to follow the principle of seeking truth from facts and develop according to competitive advantages,” Lin said.

    China must better leverage the role of the market and tap the opportunity of technological innovation to enhance productivity, especially as it stands at the same starting line with other countries for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, which is an opportunity that China “cannot afford to miss”, he said.

    The nation, which recently released a guideline to improve its market access system, is taking solid steps to optimize its business environment and foster new quality productive forces. This marks the country’s key push to implement the resolution adopted at the third plenary session.

    The guideline details 10 measures, including improving the negative list management model, strengthening the coordination of policies for domestic and foreign-funded enterprises, and optimizing the market access environment for new forms of business and new sectors.

    Liu Qiao, dean of Peking University’s Guanghua School of Management, said that high-standard opening-up and deeper institutional reforms will create immense room for improvement in resource allocation efficiency, leading to an increase in the growth rate of total factor productivity.

    Liu noted that the path to new quality productive forces involves expanding into industries and fields that can enhance total factor productivity and form new quality productive forces, adding that there are two paths to achieving this objective.

    “The first route involves leveraging revolutionary technological changes to foster strategic emerging industries and future endeavors, including sectors associated with energy transition and digital transformation, as well as future-oriented industries like quantum computing and AI-driven big data. These will create new momentum, aiding in the acceleration of total factor productivity growth.

    “The second path involves opportunities brought about by China’s transformation and upgrade of traditional industries. Currently, the productivity in China’s agricultural and services sectors, for example, is relatively low, offering significant potential for increasing total factor productivity,” he said.

    Global executives hailed China’s reform initiatives aimed at fostering new quality productive forces, saying that they present opportunities for global stakeholders.

    Nancy Wang, country manager at LinkedIn China, said that China’s vigorous pursuit of new quality productive forces aims to foster an innovation-driven economic growth model centered on technological advancement, sending a signal of China’s readiness to face the challenges of globalization and technological revolution with greater openness, inclusivity and innovation.

    Victor Tsao, vice-president of open-source solutions provider Red Hat and general manager of Red Hat Greater China, said, “We believe that through further deepening reform and opening-up, and optimizing the business environment, China will continue to attract more foreign enterprises.”

    MIL OSI China News –