Category: Switzerland

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Statement by the President of the Swiss Confederation Viola Amherd at the UN Security Council

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

    Bern, 25.09.2024 – Statement by the President of the Swiss Confederation Viola Amherd, head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS), at the UN Security Council, open debate ‘Leadership for Peace’, New York, Wednesday, 25 September 2024.

    Check against delivery

    Mr Secretary-General,
    Mr President of the Security Council,
    Excellencies,
    Ladies and gentlemen

    Mr President, I am pleased that you are giving us the opportunity to debate the topic of ‘leadership for peace’. This discussion makes us realise how important it is to fulfil our responsibilities, especially as members of the Security Council.

    Upon its election to the Council, Switzerland made a commitment to creating added value for peace, to be ‘A plus for peace’.

    Now that we have embarked on the last hundred days of our mandate, it is a good time to consider where the Security Council stands and how it can best fulfil its responsibilities. I would like to emphasise two points in particular:

    Firstly, leadership means setting standards, upholding them and holding those who violate the law accountable.

    Today, international law, including international humanitarian law, is very often and gravely violated; be it in Ukraine, the Middle East, Sudan or Myanmar.

    The international community cannot stand idly by and watch the breaches of law in these different contexts as well as the discord in the world. We condemn the disastrous consequences of the hostilities on the civilian population, including many children.

    The Security Council must speak with one voice to ensure compliance with international law and the protection of the civilian population.

    In the light of current events, I would like to underline that my country is deeply concerned about Israel’s air strikes in Lebanon and the rockets fired by Hezbollah into Israel.

    I reiterate our call for a cessation of hostilities and a return to diplomacy to resolve the conflict, as well as full respect for Resolution 1701 and international humanitarian law.

    The civilian population must be protected!

    As a member of the Security Council, Switzerland is firmly committed to international peace and security.

    The extension of the peace mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina, supported by Switzerland in 2023, and the call by the ten elected members of the Council for a ceasefire in Gaza are two examples of this.

    With the resolution introduced by Switzerland on the protection of humanitarian and UN personnel, and the commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions, we are reaffirming our commitment to the protection of vulnerable civilian populations.

    We hosted talks on Sudan. We also advocate for fair procedures in the UN sanctions regimes. We are committed to the implementation of humanitarian exemptions and to ensuring that humanitarian actors can continue their life-saving activities.

    Switzerland never tires of repeating its appeal for compliance with international law, regardless of the context. We are grateful that many here on the Council share this responsibility.

    Now to my second point, which is our responsibility to anticipate challenges, prevent dangers and recognise opportunities.

    The effects of climate change are further exacerbating and fueling existing crises and conflicts. Switzerland is working both within and outside the Security Council to ensuring that the international community addresses this challenge together.

    In view of the many challenges, it seems likely that peace missions will be more agile in the future. We also consider it a matter of urgency that peace work becomes more inclusive. Women make an important contribution to building and sustaining peace. We must recognise and strengthen this.

    This includes addressing the gender-specific impacts of conflicts and crises in a targeted manner. It will be an honour for me to chair a Council debate on the role of women in peace processes in a month’s time.

    Prevention is particularly important. In the recently adopted Pact for the Future, states have committed themselves to doing more to prevent conflicts instead of merely alleviating their consequences. The New Agenda for Peace is essentially geared towards conflict prevention. Prevention includes development and security aspects, but above all respect for human rights. Without the protection and promotion of universal human rights, there can be no lasting peace.

    Finally, I want to emphasize that we can only lead together. This principle applies to the multilateral system in general and to the Council in particular: no one can succeed alone. Partnerships, courage and trust between states are needed.

    Equally important is the dialogue with civil society, business and science. International Geneva has long been a place where humanitarian tradition and scientific innovation are united in the ‘esprit de Genève’. Switzerland is proud to promote this spirit through the organisations in Geneva.

    Regional partnerships are also valuable, as demonstrated by the African Union in the area of peacebuilding. I am pleased, therefore, that next month, under Switzerland’s chairmanship, we will be welcoming the Peace and Security Council of the African Union to New York.

    Mr President,
    Excellencies,

    Sustainable solutions require the will of all parties involved. Peace remains possible, especially if states and their leaders reflect on common human values. By agreeing to work together, we help everyone – including ourselves.

    Thank you.


    Address for enquiries

    DDPS Communication
    Federal Palace East
    CH-3003 Bern


    Publisher

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

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Translation: No to the possibility of re-exporting Swiss war material to a third country

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

    Source: Switzerland – Canton Government of Geneva in French

    The Council of State responded to a consultation of the Federal Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications (DETEC) on the partial revision of the ordinances on road signs (OSR) and regulating admission to road traffic (OAC).

    The revision of the OSR concerns in particular the integration of concrete technical standards developed by private law organisations into federal law in order to make them legally binding. It is accompanied by two new ordinances: one on the indication of direction at junctions and interchanges on motorways and semi-motorways, the other on special markings. It also implements the Motion 17.3952 Bühler “Allow bilingual signage on motorways”. In addition, it allows for the imposition of a fine on motorways and semi-motorways, not only for unauthorized overtaking on the right by pulling out and then merging, but also for unauthorized overtaking on the right.

    The Geneva government generally approves the proposed changes. However, it is asking that certain characteristics of construction site and hiking signage be coordinated with the new version of the OSR and that it be adapted in order to harmonize the use of paint on cycle paths or lanes to improve cyclist safety.

    Regarding the revision of the OAC, the Council of State expresses certain reservations, in particular concerning the traffic theory course (CTC). It opposes the obligation to follow this course before the basic theoretical examination, considering that the CTC takes on its full meaning when the student is directly confronted with the reality of the road.

    For further media information: Mr. Santiago Achi, Technical Manager, Arve-Lac Regional Directorate, OCT, DSM, T. 022 546 78 94.

    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: State pension fund: modification in favor of insured persons paid by the hour

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

    Source: Switzerland – Canton Government of Geneva in French

    The Council of State responded to a consultation of the Federal Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications (DETEC) on the partial revision of the ordinances on road signs (OSR) and regulating admission to road traffic (OAC).

    The revision of the OSR concerns in particular the integration of concrete technical standards developed by private law organisations into federal law in order to make them legally binding. It is accompanied by two new ordinances: one on the indication of direction at junctions and interchanges on motorways and semi-motorways, the other on special markings. It also implements the Motion 17.3952 Bühler “Allow bilingual signage on motorways”. In addition, it allows for the imposition of a fine on motorways and semi-motorways, not only for unauthorized overtaking on the right by pulling out and then merging, but also for unauthorized overtaking on the right.

    The Geneva government generally approves the proposed changes. However, it is asking that certain characteristics of construction site and hiking signage be coordinated with the new version of the OSR and that it be adapted in order to harmonize the use of paint on cycle paths or lanes to improve cyclist safety.

    Regarding the revision of the OAC, the Council of State expresses certain reservations, in particular concerning the traffic theory course (CTC). It opposes the obligation to follow this course before the basic theoretical examination, considering that the CTC takes on its full meaning when the student is directly confronted with the reality of the road.

    For further media information: Mr. Santiago Achi, Technical Manager, Arve-Lac Regional Directorate, OCT, DSM, T. 022 546 78 94.

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Democracy Promotion: Supporting Democratic Openings with Diplomatic Instruments

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in English

    New York, 24.09.2024 – Address by Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, Head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) – Check against delivery

    Secretary Blinken,

    Administrator Power,

    Excellencies,

    I would like to thank Secretary Blinken and Administrator Power for convening this important meeting today, which allows us to reaffirm our commitment to supporting democratic openings.

    Switzerland and the United States share a long history when it comes to democratic rights and freedoms.

    From the 17th century to the present day, our countries have influenced each other. We are sister republics, as the American constitutionalists put it 250 years ago.

    Excellencies,

    Democracy brings substantial benefits for sustainable development and lasting peace. Switzerland’s history bears witness to these positive consequences:

    Our democratic institutions and processes have enabled us to navigate linguistic, religious and cultural diversity and find unity.

    Today, only 30% of the global population lives in a democracy. Drawing from our own experience, strengthening democracy has become a key priority in our foreign policy.

    I am pleased to announce that my Ministry is now developing its first “Democracy Guidelines”.

    These guidelines define the objectives of our efforts and detail the tools we will employ:

    – One key tool is diplomacy: fostering bilateral and multilateral dialogue while engaging political actors as equal partners.

    – Another tool is providing knowledge and financial support to strengthen the framework that sustains democracies, thereby starting with the universally recognized fundamental rights, essential for the dignity and freedom of individuals.

    We are ready to provide swift and creative support wherever and whenever it is welcomed.

    Switzerland fully supports the joint statement and looks forward to ongoing dialogue, aiming to expand the family by welcoming many more sisters.

    Thank you.


    Address for enquiries

    FDFA Communication
    Federal Palace West Wing
    CH-3003 Bern, Switzerland
    Tel. Press service: +41 58 460 55 55
    E-mail: kommunikation@eda.admin.ch
    Twitter: @SwissMFA


    Publisher

    Federal Department of Foreign Affairs
    https://www.eda.admin.ch/eda/en/home.html

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: SDG Flag Day in Lugano: Cities play a key role in implementing sustainable development goals

    Source: Switzerland – Federal Administration in English

    Bern, 25.09.2024 – Since 2019, SDG Flag Day has been held every year on 25 September on the initiative of the business community (via the UN Global Compact). Schools, communes, organisations, companies and governments fly flags to symbolically express their support for the 2030 Agenda and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). At the SDG Flag Day event in Lugano, the two Federal Council delegates for the 2030 Agenda, Markus Reubi and Daniel Dubas, emphasised the key role of cities in implementing the 2030 Agenda.

    Whether it’s access to green spaces and public areas, sustainable transport systems, waste sorting or involving all stakeholders in urban planning, cities face particular challenges in the field of sustainability. Although they only cover 3% of the earth’s surface, they consume three quarters of global resources and are responsible for 75% of global emissions. The 2030 Agenda therefore also addresses this topic in SDG Goal 11, ‘Sustainable cities and communities’.

    Swiss cities and communes need to become inclusive, resilient and environmentally friendly. To mark this year’s SDG Flag Day, the city of Lugano is providing various examples of how it is driving forward the implementation of the 2030 Agenda.

    “Through its #luganosostenibile programme, Lugano is one of the many cities using their proximity to citizens to implement solutions in different areas of the 2030 Agenda,” says Markus Reubi, deputy head of the Prosperity and Sustainability Division (PSD) of the FDFA and one of the Federal Council’s two delegates for the 2030 Agenda. Mr Ruebi took part in SDG Flag Day in Lugano together with the other Federal Council delegate for the 2030 Agenda, Daniel Dubas. According to Mr Dubas, who heads the Sustainable Development Section of the Federal Office for Spatial Development (ARE), ‘cities are a key driver of sustainable development in Switzerland, especially as almost three quarters of the population live in cities and peri-urban areas.’

    Today’s event in Lugano marks the start of a deeper collaboration between the FDFA and a range of cities in the field of sustainability, a development that will be highlighted at a city symposium on SDG Flag Day 2025.

    2030 Agenda

    The 2030 Agenda is the global frame of reference for local, national and international efforts to find joint solutions to major international challenges such as climate change, resource consumption, biodiversity conservation and health crises. The 2030 Agenda was adopted on 25 September 2015 by 193 UN member states, including Switzerland. It applies to all countries and sets the SDGs to be achieved by 2030. In Switzerland too, the 2030 Agenda is the guiding framework for sustainability policy.
    At the heart of the 2030 Agenda are the 17 SDGs and their 169 targets. These are structured around five guiding principles: people, planet, prosperity, peace and partnership. With these five principles, the 2030 Agenda aims to safeguard human well-being, economic development and environmental protection as well as addressing aspects such as peace, the rule of law and governance. SDG Flag Day is an initiative of the UN Global Compact, a global network of companies that are committed to the goals of the 2030 Agenda.


    Address for enquiries

    FDFA Communication
    Federal Palace West Wing
    CH-3003 Bern, Switzerland
    Tel. Press service: +41 58 460 55 55
    E-mail: kommunikation@eda.admin.ch
    Twitter: @SwissMFA


    Publisher

    Federal Department of Foreign Affairs
    https://www.eda.admin.ch/eda/en/home.html

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Issue of a Confederation loan on October 9, 2024

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

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in French

    Federal Finance Administration

    Bern, 25.09.2024 – The optional date will be used.

    The Federal Finance Administration will use the optional date of October 9, 2024. On October 8, it will communicate as usual which bond will be issued.

    Address for sending questions

    Michael Girod, Communication, Federal Finance Administration, tel. 41 58 465 41 41, kommunikation@efv.admin.ch

    Author

    Federal Finance Administrationhttp://www.efv.admin.ch

    Social sharing

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Press Conference Government House, Adelaide

    Source: Minister for Trade

    Minister for Trade, Don Farrell: Good afternoon everybody, and please take a seat, don’t stand on formality. I thank the Governor for making her home available to us today to hold this press conference with my very good friend, the Trade Minister for India, Piyush Goyal, it’s absolutely wonderful to have you here.

    When I first became the Trade Minister for Australia, I was lucky enough to be invited to Piyush’s home in New Delhi, and have a wonderful feast with him and his wife, and a little bit later on today I’m going to return the favour. We’re heading out to the magnificent Clare Valley, and we’re going to have a wonderful meal out in the Clare together this evening.

    We’ve just wrapped up our face‑to‑face meeting, and it’s the first meeting that we’ve had since the Modi Government was recently re‑elected, and of course follows on the weekend’s events between our Prime Minister and Prime Minister Modi in Delaware, with the Japanese and the American leaders.

    I think it’s fair to say that the relationship between Australia and India has never, ever been closer. And to reflect that, is the economic relationship between our two countries, and it has never ever been better.

    Following our Trade Agreement that was ratified during the course of this Parliamentary session, trade with India is turning out to be a really big win for Australia, and today we held in‑depth discussions on how to accelerate that trading relationship. And in addition to that, our investment relationship viability on the enormous growth that we’ve just seen in recent times.

    Just to give you some examples of that, in the 18 months since our Trade Agreement with India came into force, nearly $30 billion worth of Australian exports have entered India either with zero tariffs or lower tariffs than any of our competitors.

    Agricultural exports to India are up around 60 per cent to $1.6 billion, and we know how important that is to the South Australian economy.

    Industrial equipment and manufacturing exports are up 66 per cent or $145 million, and our health exports to India have increased by nearly 40 per cent to $33 million.

    Australian consumers are of course benefitting by our trade deals with savings at the checkouts worth around $225 million, thanks to the lower tariffs on products that are coming in from India.

    During our meeting, Minister Goyal and I discussed how we can grow our two‑way trade and investment even more. The key focus of today’s discussion was our next free trade agreement called the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement.

    Our trade negotiators recently met in Sydney, and today’s discussions show that there’s real momentum here to get an agreement as we work out the details.

    For Australia, we’ve made it clear that we have much to offer our friends in India, particularly in agriculture, as well as the emerging sectors we are building as part of our Future Made in Australia.

    We also exchanged a Memorandum of Understanding on investment cooperation between Austrade and Invest India, which will help boost two‑way investment between our countries.

    Our Government has also wrapped up consultations on our new India Economic Roadmap. We’ve held over 400 consultation sessions across every Australian State and Territory and in India.

    Over the past two days, Minister Goyal has heard from a range of Australian businesses who see wonderful opportunities to partner with India in sectors like green energy, education skills, tourism, agriculture and technology, and in a few moments the Minister and I will walk up to the Australian Space Agency headquarters to meet some of the Australian space start‑ups that are partnering directly with India.

    Our Government is committed to driving more practical cooperation between Australian and Indian businesses. That’s why today I’m announcing $10 million in new grants for Australian businesses, organisations and universities to boost cooperation with India.

    By extending the $10 million Maitri Grants program, the Government will deliver, firstly, $5 million for Australian organisations working on projects that boost trade and innovation, cultural ties and community leaders, and then a further $5 million for scholars and fellowships to support Australian universities to host some of the brightest Indian students in their research, on some of our biggest shared challenges.

    As I indicated before, the Minister and our wives, will be heading out to the magnificent Clare Valley, and we’ll continue to discuss the wonderful opportunities between our two countries. I’ll invite my good friend Piyush to say some words about today’s events and his time in Australia.

    Indian Minister for Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal: Thank you very much Honourable Don Farrell, Member of Parliament and Minister for Trade and Industry, someone I look upon as not only a friend and well‑wisher, but a brother who has been a guide, who has helped me understand trade nuances, very sensitive, ever‑smiling, and a well‑wisher of the Australia-India partnership.

    Thank you very much for your warm hospitality, thank you very much for bringing me to Adelaide for the first time. What a beautiful city, charming, a place we’ve heard about from childhood. Where cricket matters and in the good old days, we had five‑day test matches where every wicket falling was blown all over the television and radio. But to actually be right across from the Adelaide stadium is truly a memorable visit for me.

    We had very good engagement with Australian business persons in Sydney over the last two days, the excitement is truly palpable on both sides, Australian business and Indian business.

    For the first time ever both our major chambers, the conflagration of Indian industries and the conflagration of Indian chambers of commerce and industry were represented by their top leadership together as a testimony of the importance that the Australia relationship is to India.

    We are looking at significantly upscaling our partnerships in trade, investment, tourism and technology, and therefore one of the first announcements I’d like to make is that we shall shortly be setting up in Sydney an office covering all these four areas, ITTT, investment, trade, technology, and tourism. With representatives of Invest India, representatives of the organisation responsible for building industrial smart cities and townships, meeting representatives of our Export Trade and Guarantee Corporation, and other officials related to trade and tourism.

    Along with the private sector, CII jointly manning these offices to act as a bridge between investors and businesses on both sides and working closely together with Austrade with whom Invest India has today exchanged an MOU for mutual investment promotion, technology and trade facilitation, and other insights into economic trade.

    Thank you very much, Don, for giving us the encouragement to work together on these areas. And I’m sure the unprecedented ties that our two countries are sharing today with nine in‑person meetings since May 2022, in less than three years, nine in‑person meetings of our senior leaders, both Prime Ministers, reflecting the big bonding that both Prime Ministers, political leadership have with business-to-business and people‑to‑people connect that Australia and India share.

    Friends, today is a very important day in India. We are celebrating 10 years of our Making India Program. Prime Minister Modi on 25 September 2014, had launched this initiative, and through the Making India Program over the last 10 years we have significantly had a whole of government approach to addressing the challenges that manufacturing in India increase. Whether it’s provision of plug-and-play infrastructure, a national single window for all approvals, regulators reducing compliance burden or decriminalising laws, opening up foreign direct investment in newer sectors making it easier to invest in India, or encouraging the start of ecosystem. It’s been a multi‑pronged approach to attract manufacturing in India, and I do see a lot of promise between the Making India Program and the Future Made in Australia program that your government has launched, so that we can exchange the technologies, exchange opportunities and encourage businesses on both sides to work with each other.

    This enhanced cooperation via education, via skill development, tourism, investments, critical minerals, which we discussed at length today, or renewable energy, green ecosystem towards sustainability, all of these other areas where this relationship holds tremendous potential. And India is committed to partner with Australia to provide a bouquet of opportunities to our business persons on both sides so that we can work towards a greater and more ambitious relationship on the economic front.

    Friends, as Minister Farrell mentioned, ECTA, and I think some of you may recall, ECTA in India, in Hindi, is unity. This agreement has truly been a game‑changer providing greater market access to businesses on both sides and has resulted in a significant increase in merchandise trade. We’re looking at further strengthening the ECTA through to the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, the CECA, and we do hope to see a greater flow of goods and services along with investments flowing out of the CECA, which we are looking to conclude at an early date to unlock new dimensions in this partnership and provide further momentum to this business relationship.

    Friends, I must mention that we have also discussed at length greater cooperation at various multilateral fora like the WTO, the G20, the IPEF and other international organisations where Australia and India share common interests.

    India is the world’s fastest growing economy today. We grew at 8.2 per cent last year. The economy today is the fifth largest in the world, expected to become the third largest in the next three years. We will cross the $7 trillion mark by 2030, and the $10 trillion mark by 2034, 10 years from now.

    We are very confident of achieving a developed country status by 2047. [Indistinct] 2047 is our ambition, is our goal, taking up our economy to 10 times today’s size, to $35 trillion economy in the next 25 years or so, so that we can meet the aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians for a better quality of life. And I see Australia playing an important role in this journey towards making India a developed nation, a role to greater trade, a role to exchange of technologies, a role in our common goals for sustainability and a significant role when it comes to provision of high-tech services and investments.

    India offers the advantage of four Ds. The first is our democracy. We have a vibrant democracy, the world’s largest democracy, the Rule of Law prevails, it provides safety and security for investment and people. And I think in today’s day and age, two democracies working together provides a great comfort to investors in the long run.

    The second D is our demographic dividend, a young population with an average age of 28.4 years, expected to remain young for many, many more years to come, with two‑thirds of our population in the working age to providing skills, talent and huge manpower force to help the economy to move faster.

    The third D is demand. 1.4 billion aspirational Indians, demanding high quality goods and services is a huge market opportunity, and growth opportunity.

    And the fourth D is decisive leadership. The Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Government are willing to reform, transform and perform to take the country to greater heights. I’m very confident that together we shall make the Australia-India partnership a defining partnership of the decade, if not the 21st Century. The kangaroos and the tigers together have a combined strength which is unstoppable. Thank you.

    Minister for Trade: I think we should give Piyush a clap for that. Thank you, very much, my friend, and we’ll open to questions.

    Journalist: This one’s for both Ministers. Can you give an update on the CECA negotiations? You made progress of the outstanding points of difference, and do you see an agreement for Australia [indistinct]?

    Minister for Trade: We are very optimistic that the good work that was done today will result in an expanded agreement. As we saw with the United Arab Emirates, when both parties put their mind to it we can very quickly expedite the discussions to finalise an agreement. I’d be hopeful that goodwill on both sides, and you can see today, that’s been demonstrated here – I think with goodwill we can very quickly resolve this issue, and we can have a new upgraded agreement between Australia and India.

    Piyush Goyal: Madam, I think the important and defining feature of our discussions and negotiations is the sensitivity that both sides have to each other’s issues, defensive interests, offensive interests. All are considered together in a manner which will only result in a win‑win situation. So any issue that I can see Australia will be uncomfortable with I would not like to push, press on that, and likewise our approach has been that if something is very sensitive to a large Indian population given our current status of development, Australia has been very gracious in their understanding of our sensitivities.

    It is my deep confidence in each other that helps us to resolve issues very fast, and I’m very confident that the final agreement will only help grow this relationship. You saw that our first agreement didn’t have any negative press or any negative public outcry. I’m sure the second agreement will correspondingly be a good mix of the good things that people want out of the agreement.

    Minister for Trade: I think it’s worthwhile repeating that when we were last in India together we committed to increasing our trade from its current $49 billion two‑way trade to $100 billion by the end of the decade, and I think we’re ‑ I’m certainly happy, and I think I speak for Piyush here, to restate that today.

    We want to double that trade between our countries between now and the end of the decade.

    Journalist: Just on that, Minister Goyal, India has traditionally been hesitant about removing barriers to Australian exports in sensitive sectors like dairy. Have you had consultations with those domestic producers and has the Government consulted with its Coalition partners on any of those sensitivities?

    Piyush Goyal: First of all, the Government in India is a strong government. The Coalition is a pre‑poll alliance. So we have very seamless consultations and very seamless understanding of any decisions that the Government takes.

    As regards dairy, that sector was discussed even before we started the negotiations with Australia three years ago, and Indian dairy is very significantly different from Australian dairy.

    Our average holding with a farmer is a small two‑acre, three‑acre farm with three or four livestock, whereas Australia’s farms and dairy farms are both very large, and it would be near impossible for these large farms and these small farms to compete with each other on a common footing.

    We have discussed this issue even three years ago and on earlier occasions, and dairy is such a sensitive subject that in any of our FTAs across the world, we have not been able to open up the dairy sector with duty concessions there is permitted in India, but there are certain duties imposed on that.

    This is one sector where there’s no discussion with any Coalition partner, even when we were a full majority government there was no opening up of the dairy. It’s actually two very unequal situations and would not lend themselves to fair trade between the two countries, or between any countries. We have neither opened up dairy in Europe, or planning to open up dairy in Europe, nor have we opened it up even with Switzerland and Norway, with whom we have recently concluded an FTA under the EFTA grouping – Switzerland, Norway, Lichtenstein and Iceland. Even then we have not opened up dairy. It’s the first agreement Switzerland has signed without any component of dairy in it.

    Journalist: You predicted that China will bring its pursuit of all lobster type business. Given your previous predictions on the subject have proven optimistic, why do you have the confidence that this will be resolved in the next few months?

    Minister for Trade: I’m an optimistic sort of person, and I think the only way you can do this job is to be optimistic. If you think about this, when we came to government two and a half years ago, we had $20 billion worth of impediments between Australia and China.

    We have reduced that over time to less than $1 billion and one product that is still outstanding unfortunately is lobster.

    We’ve recently had meetings both with the Chinese Premier, and also my counterpart, Wang Wentao, in fact as Piyush has done. They both came to Adelaide, it’s becoming a bit of a feature of international trade these days, everyone’s coming to Adelaide. I’m confident that we can resolve the outstanding issues in a timely manner.

    It is unfortunate that that issue hasn’t been resolved. The Government is doing its absolute best to resolve it, but these issues do take time, and we’ll continue to work very closely with the Chinese Government to put aside all of the outstanding issues between our two governments.

    Journalist: Paul Starick from The Advertiser in Adelaide. Two questions, one for both ministers. You mentioned agriculture as a significant component of the next stage of your agreement. Do you care to elaborate on that, what particular opportunities do you see? And secondly, for Senator Farrell, regarding an unrelated issue at the Whyalla steelworks. The Premier has talked about the importance of that as a national enterprise. Do you agree, and what response given its current predicament do you think is appropriate at a national level?

    Minister for Trade: Well, look, in terms of agriculture, we’re talking about the removal of all of the tariffs that weren’t removed at the last process, so we’ve made very significant progress, but as the Minister said, some of the more difficult issues were not resolved at that issue, we put them to one side, they’re all back on the table. So things like chickpeas, pistachios, and apples. So, all of the issues, all of the products where there are still tariffs ‑ wine is another one ‑ we are seeking to have those tariffs removed.

    I’m not going to go to the details of the negotiations, it’s not appropriate to do that here, but we’ll continue to work through, and as Piyush said, where issues are difficult, we understand that, and we’re not going to make life any more difficult for the Indian Government.

    On the other issue, I’m aware that there have been some discussions between the Prime Minister and the Premier over the issue of Whyalla. Obviously steel making is a very important business in Whyalla. As a government we want to see steel making continue, and of course all of those jobs be protected, and we will, of course, continue those discussions between the Prime Minister and the Premier.

    Minister, you might like to answer that first question.

    Piyush Goyal: I think as you very rightly put it, we let the negotiators take the discussions forward and give them a chance to look at what other possibilities as we conclude the CEPA.

    Minister for Trade: Well, if there are no other questions, thank you very much for coming along today, and we’ll head up to the Space Agency after a quick lunch with the Premier and the Governor. Thank you very much for attending.

    Piyush Goyal: Thank you friends.

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Launch of the national program to combat foot rot

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

    Source: Switzerland – Canton Government of Geneva in French

    On October 1, the Consumer Affairs and Veterinary Service (SCAV) will begin inspections on all sheep farms in the canton of Geneva. This is part of the new program to combat foot rot, a disease that causes painful lesions on the hooves of affected animals.

    Designed by the Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (FSVO), in collaboration with the main associations in the sector, the program aims to reduce the presence of this disease to less than 1% of Swiss farms, compared to around 25% currently. It will last a maximum of 5 years.

    Although this disease does not pose any risk to human health and does not affect the quality of the meat or milk produced by these animals, the fight against this sheep pathology responds to a problem of improving animal welfare. It will also help to minimize the economic impact of this epizootic on the canton’s sheep farms.

    The success of this programme will depend entirely on the good cooperation of sheep farmers with the veterinary services, due to the health treatments they will have to carry out, compliance with the immobilization measures that may be imposed and the rigour of biosecurity practices on their farms.

    More information:

    Fight against foot rot – ge.chFighting foot rot throughout Switzerland – admin.chFoot rot – admin.chOSAV press release – admin.ch

    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: Collected abusive signatures. The Federal Chancellery has filed a criminal complaint

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Italy –

    Source: Switzerland – Federal Chancellery

    Federal Chancellery

    Berne, 25.09.2024 – The Federal Chancellery has filed today a criminal complaint raised by the Public Ministry of the Confederation for the purpose of electoral fraud. The plainte is directed towards you. The ways of previous joints in plain text indicate that the signatures that the authorities ont declared are not valid pourraient avoir have been falsified.

    The Federal Chancellery has now filed a criminal complaint against the inconvenience of forgery of signatures in the context of popular initiatives in 2022. She completed these plain ones with two reprises bringing new ways of life. The signals come from the same time in the same canton. The second plain text deposited today by the Federal Chancellery brings the suspects here if they are produced this year in the largest cantons and therefore the authors appear to be different.

    The Federal Chancellery will report the suspect cases here in the object of the second plainte lors du contrôle et du dépouillement des lists de signatures. After 2022, the process of in-depth checks includes previously declared signatures not valid for municipalities. Also note the elements that indicate the forgeries, for example of different writings for several signatures of one person and the same person.

    The plaint contains also these signals of falsification that from cantons or communes, and in a particular case, it is common. Les signalements portent parfois sur une seule signature; the plupart, on those dizaines.

    In total, the plain door on the environment 950 signatures powerfully falsified coming from six cantons, for five popular initiatives. The most frequent reasons here reveal the soupcons and conduisent to invalidate the signatures are, other than the different writings for more signatures of one single person and the same person, incorrect dates of naissance, badly spelled names, incorrect or invented addresses Lists of signatures here satisfy the legal requirements. According to the ongoing procedure, the Federal Chancellery will not provide information on the file.

    For the last few weeks, new abusive practices have been discovered. The Federal Chancellery exploits all the possibilities it provides to protect the integrity of the signature collection process. Outside the criminal court, to know the grounds for suspects, it is necessary to prevent and improve the proceedings.

    The chancelier of the Confédération will convene a permanent round table to ensure that those who propose and ask for signatures are committed to respecting the rules of transparency and behavior required to prevent falsifications. An in-depth monitoring of the collection and control processes of the signatures is to help you find them in place. The Federal Chancellery will also contact the scientific community to examine the technical solutions to prevent abuse and fraud in the collection of signatures.

    Address for envoi de questions

    Urs BrudererChef ai Section Communication058 483 99 69urs.bruderer@bk.admin.ch

    Author

    Federal Chancelleryhttps://www.bk.admin.ch/bk/fr/home.html

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Ignazio Cassis in Central Asia: Speech on the occasion of the Swiss National Day

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in English

    Bischkek, Swiss Embassy, 03.07.2024 – Speech by H.E. Federal Councilor Ignazio Cassis, Head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) – check against delivery

    Benvenuto a tutti
    Bienvenue à tous et toutes
    Ich heisse alle recht herzlich willkommen

    Добро пожаловать!

    Кош келиңиздер!
     
    I would like to welcome you all to our celebration of the Swiss National Day – one month in advance, indeed, but this is the only way to catch you all here!

    This is a very special occasion that I am privileged to share with you today:
    This year, we are also celebrating the 30th anniversary of development cooperation between our countries; and the centenary of the Kara Kyrgyz Autonomous Oblast, the new beginning of the modern Kyrgyz Republic.

    A few years after that beginning, Swiss travellers started to visit your country:
    Notably the writer and photographer Ella Maillart, who is honoured in the karakul museum, and the alpinist Lorenz Saladin, who climbed Khan Tengri.
    Today, I have had the pleasure to discover a bit of your beautiful country and its many similarities with mine.  

    • We both have stunning nature and impressive mountains.
    • We are both rather small and landlocked countries;
    • We both have larger neighbours.

    Geographic, natural, cultural, ethnic, religious, and linguistic diversity has been a key asset and factor for success for Switzerland as it is for the Kyrgyz Republic.

    Our relations are fruitful and strong.
    In 2023, Switzerland was the biggest export partner of the Kyrgyz Republic.
    We have regular high-level meetings, including political consultations, and now, my visit to Bishkek.

    It was about time to come here, to strengthen our relations.

    The team at your Embassy in Switzerland and at the Swiss Embassy in Bishkek invest countless hours in nurturing our bilateral relations.

    Not to forget the personal link of friendship between our countries:

    I would like here to recognise some of my compatriots who live in Kyrgyzstan – thank you for promoting Switzerland by your presence.

    I would also like to acknowledge the role of Kyrgyzstani citizens in Switzerland in strengthening links of friendship.

    Dear Guests
    In international fora, Kyrgyzstan and Switzerland support each other.
    The most obvious example is our collaboration within the World Bank and International Monetary Fund boards.
    Yesterday, I attended the constituency meeting in Dushanbe, with participation of the Kyrgyz Republic.
    It showed me how strong our links are.

    Switzerland will stay committed to its development cooperation with the Kyrgyz Republic. We will continue to work together in the future.
    We should continue supporting the private sector, local governance and the water-energy sector, to the extent allowed by today’s trying circumstances.

    Speaking of circumstances, the stability and prosperity of our two countries strongly depend on the global balance of power.

    As a neutral country, Switzerland is a traditional partner for peace and dialogue.
    To fulfil this responsibility my country hosted the first Summit on Peace in Ukraine two weeks ago.
    We have launched a broadly supported process, where voices from all corners of the globe can discuss their ideas and points of view.
    The path to peace is long and challenging but it is in the interest of everyone – including Switzerland and Kyrgyzstan – to commit to this ambition.
    Both our countries thrive in peace, as will Ukraine and Russia when a “comprehensive, just and lasting peace” has been achieved.
     
    Ladies and Gentlemen
    On all anniversaries, it is customary to make wishes – and I have three wishes for your exceptional country:

    • May Kyrgyzstan navigate the difficult international context successfully, grounded in its neutrality.
    • May the Kyrgyz Republic and the Republic of Tajikistan soon find a good and equitable way to resolve the outstanding border issues.
    •  May the Swiss support in the water, health, economic and local governance sectors help make my first two wishes come true!

    Чоң рахмат!
    I wish you all a wonderful anniversary evening.
    Thank you!


    Address for enquiries

    FDFA Communication
    Federal Palace West Wing
    CH-3003 Bern, Switzerland
    Tel. Press service: +41 58 460 55 55
    E-mail: kommunikation@eda.admin.ch
    Twitter: @SwissMFA


    Publisher

    Federal Department of Foreign Affairs
    https://www.eda.admin.ch/eda/en/home.html

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Abusive signature collections: Federal Chancellery files complaint

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Italy –

    Source: Switzerland – Federal Chancellery

    Federal ChancelleryBern, 25.09.2024 – The Federal Chancellery has today filed a criminal complaint against unknown persons with the Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland on suspicion of electoral fraud. The evidence included in the complaint indicates that the signatures declared invalid by the authorities may have been forged. The Federal Chancellery had already filed a criminal complaint against unknown persons in 2022 for suspected forgery of signatures collected for popular initiatives. This complaint was supplemented twice with new evidence; in this case, the reports came from a single canton. Today’s criminal complaint, however, includes suspicious cases that were observed in various cantons this year and for which it is assumed that different perpetrators were involved. The criminal complaint includes suspicious cases that the Federal Chancellery came across when checking the lists and counting the signatures. As part of the in-depth checks that have been carried out since 2022, the Federal Chancellery also takes into account signatures that municipalities have already declared invalid. In this way, it was able to identify anomalies that suggest forgery, such as different handwritings in the case of multiple signatures from the same person. The complaint groups together fifteen reports of forgery brought to the attention of the Federal Chancellery by municipalities and cantons and, in one case, by a private individual. Some of these reports concern individual signatures, but most concern a double-digit number of signatures. In total, it involves around 950 suspected forged signatures from six cantons and collected for five different popular initiatives. In addition to the aforementioned different handwritings in the case of multiple signatures from the same person, the most common reasons for suspected forgery and invalidation are incorrect dates of birth, misspelled names, incorrect or non-existent addresses, and lists of signatures that do not meet the legal requirements. In view of the ongoing proceedings, the Federal Chancellery is not providing further details on the complaint. In recent weeks, new cases involving abusive methods of collecting signatures have been discovered. Since then, the Federal Chancellery has been using all available means to protect the integrity of the signature collection process. In addition to reporting suspicious cases for criminal prosecution, it is focusing on prevention and improving processes. The Federal Chancellor will soon convene a permanent round table to ensure that signature providers and buyers commit to transparency and conduct rules to prevent forgery. More detailed monitoring of the signature collection and control processes is currently being implemented. The Federal Chancellery has also contacted the scientific community to explore technical solutions to protect the signature collection process from abuse and fraud. Address for enquiriesUrs BrudererHead of the Communications Section058 483 99 69urs.bruderer@bk.admin.chPublished byFederal Chancelleryhttps://www.bk.admin.ch/bk/it/home.html

    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: Briefing on maintaining peace and security in Ukraine (FR)

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

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in English

    Federal Department of Foreign Affairs

    Bern, 09.24.2024 – Address by Federal Councilor Ignazio Cassis, Head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) – Check against delivery

    Mr. President, Mr. Secretary-General, Dear colleagues, Ladies and Gentlemen,

    I thank Slovenia for its initiative. It is crucial that this Council continues to reflect on ways to restore peace and end the Russian war against Ukraine. And this, in the presence of Ukraine; I welcome the presence of President Zelenskiy here.

    I firmly believe in the importance of respecting the United Nations Charter, international humanitarian law, as well as the application of the Geneva Conventions, whose 75th anniversary we are celebrating this year.

    And yet, despite all the tools established after World War II, we have not succeeded in silencing the guns. We have not been able to prevent countless civilians from suffering the consequences.

    Ladies and Gentlemen

    So far, this Council has not assumed its responsibility. After 1000 days of war, we still have not found a diplomatic solution.

    Why are we unable to agree on the way forward to restore peace? Have we lost the common grammar of peace?

    If I hold my position as Minister, it is because I believe in the power of politics in the service of the common good. Politics must always challenge the maxim of the strategist von Clausewitz that: “war is the mere continuation of politics by other means.” And the UN is politics.

    Excellencies,

    Making peace takes courage.

    By organising the first Peace Summit in Ukraine last June, Switzerland had the audacity to place peace on the international agenda, and this in the midst of war.

    Countries from five continents gathered near Lucerne to discuss three key issues essential to building peace: • Nuclear security; • Food security; and • The humanitarian dimension of the conflict.

    The joint Bürgenstock communiqué, signed by a majority of participants representing the entire world, has helped to ease certain blockages revealed by the war in Ukraine and to restore a beginning of trust between us.

    This first step towards peace must not be left without follow-up. It is now essential to continue this dialogue also with Russia.

    Only pragmatic diplomacy can get us out of this impasse, which has already cost too many lives.

    Ladies and Gentlemen,

    While peace must be our priority, the reconstruction of Ukraine is also a collective responsibility. A lasting peace will also depend on well-prepared reconstruction. From the beginning of the conflict, Switzerland laid the foundations for this reconstruction with the Lugano Conference.

    One of our priorities is humanitarian demining. We are currently investing $120 million to demine civilian and agricultural areas in Ukraine. The Ukraine Mine Action Conference, co-organized by Switzerland and Ukraine on October 17-18 in Switzerland, will discuss the needs and solutions for this action.

    Ukraine is about to face its third winter of war. It is our duty to finally offer the Ukrainian people a spring of peace.

    Thank you.

    Address for inquiries

    FDFA CommunicationFederal Palace West WingCH-3003 Bern, SwitzerlandTel. Press service: 41 58 460 55 55E-mail: kommunikation@eda.admin.chTwitter: @SwissMFA

    Publisher

    Federal Department of Foreign Affairshttps://www.eda.admin.ch/eda/en/home.html

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Economy – KOF Economic Forecast, autumn 2024: Lack of recovery in Europe clouds prospects for the Swiss economy

    Source: KOF Economic Institute

    The economic recovery in Switzerland and internationally is sluggish. The KOF expects real sports-adjusted gross domestic product (GDP) to increase by 1.1% in 2024. Weak investment is holding back growth, while the pharmaceutical industry is providing a boost. Sports-adjusted GDP will increase by 1.6% in 2025 and 1.7% in 2026. The main reason for the gloomy outlook is the economic weakness in Europe – for instance in Germany, Switzerland’s most important trading partner.

    Export industry suffers from lack of demand from abroad – domestic consumption provides support

    The economic recovery in Switzerland is progressing more slowly than expected. The lack of stimulus from abroad in particular prevent the Swiss economy to fully utilise its production potential in the forecast period. The euro area is struggling to gain momentum. Above all, there are no signs of a significant economic recovery in Germany. In addition, momentum in the USA will slow in the near future. As a result, the Swiss export industry is suffering, particularly the tech industry, while the pharmaceutical industry is one of the few positive exceptions. Swiss exports in total (goods and services) will virtually stagnate until spring and only pick up speed after the first quarter of 2025.

    The weakness in equipment investment remains pronounced. It is only towards the end of the year that they will develop a little more momentum. Bright spots in Switzerland are the solid development of the labour market and the easing of inflation. Private consumption continues to support the economic development and public consumer spending is also making a positive growth contribution this year. Public consumer spending will remain stable over the remainder of the forecast period.

    GDP growth will be less dynamic in the years ahead

    According to the KOF forecast, real Swiss GDP will increase by an annual average of 1.1% this year if major sporting events such as the European Championships in Germany and the Olympic Games in Paris are excluded (1.5% including sporting events). Next year, GDP growth will be 1.6% after adjusting for sporting events (1.2% including sporting events). In its current forecast, the KOF extends the forecast period to 2026 and assumes that GDP will increase by 1.7% (excluding sporting events; 2.1% including sport events) in 2026, a similar rate to the previous year.

    Employment continues to grow – higher real wages allow scope for additional spending

    Employment growth will continue at a solid pace not only in the short term, but also over the next two years. The KOF expects employment to increase by 1% in 2025. This growth is slightly below the medium-term average rate. For 2026, job growth is expected to be almost as high at 1.1%. The unemployment rate will tend to rise slightly but steadily over the forecast period. However, with rates of 2.7% and 2.8% (according to SECO) and 4.6% and 4.7% (according to ILO) in 2025 and 2026, unemployment will not rise at an above-average rate.

    After two years of declines, real wages will rise again this and in the next two years, allowing scope for additional spending. These developments, the solid labour market and high population growth mean that private consumption will remain an important pillar of the Swiss economic development. Depending on how the 13th AHV is financed, it could also provide a small boost to private consumption towards the end of the forecast period.

    Inflation decreases below 1% – further interest rate cuts by the SNB expected

    Inflation will continue to weaken in the forecast period, so that inflation is likely to be 1.2% this year and 0.7% in each of the next two years. While prices for goods and energy have fallen, price increases for services are above average. In view of the disinflationary trend, the Swiss National Bank (SNB) will lower its key interest rates further. The KOF anticipates an interest rate cut of 25 basis points in September and a further cut of the same magnitude in December, bringing the key interest rate down to 0.75%.

    Significant forecast risks due to geopolitical conflicts – Swiss franc could appreciate

    In view of the geopolitical tensions in various regions of the world, the risks to the forecast are currently considerable. The war in Ukraine, but especially the conflict in the Middle East, could have a strong impact on both economic development and inflation if it escalates further. The supply and prices of energy commodities could react strongly. The exchange rate of the Swiss franc is likely to react to a further escalation with an appreciation.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Statement by Antonio Tajani, Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Italy in his capacity as Chair of the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting at the High-Level Week of the UN General Assembly (23 September 2024)

    Source: Republic of France in English
    The Republic of France has issued the following statement:

    1. Introduction

    In today’s meeting in New York, in the wake of the Summit of the Future, the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States and the High Representative of the European Union reiterated their commitment to upholding the rule of law, humanitarian principles and international law, including the Charter of the United Nations, and to protecting human rights and dignity for all individuals.

    They re-emphasized their determination to foster collective action in order to preserve peace and stability to address global challenges, such as the climate crisis and to advance the achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

    In doing so, the G7 members renewed their commitment to the promotion of free societies and democratic principles, where all persons can freely exercise their rights and freedoms.

    2. Summit for the Future

    In the spirit of the renewed determination to strengthen the multilateral system based on the UN Charter’s principles, as reflected in the Pact for the Future adopted at the Summit of the Future by world Leaders, the G7 members committed to continue working with countries and all relevant stakeholders within the UN system through dialogue, mutual understanding and respect in the pursuit of common solutions, with the aim of upholding and reforming the multilateral system so that it better reflects today’s world and is fit to respond to the complex global challenges of the future. They reaffirmed their commitment to work with all UN member states to strengthen the roles of the UNSG as well as the UNGA. They also recommitted to the reform of the UNSC.

    3. Steadfast Support to Ukraine

    The G7 members reaffirmed their unwavering support to Ukraine as it defends its freedom, sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, against Russia’s brutal and unjustifiable war of aggression. The G7 members strongly condemned Russia’s blatant breach of international law, including the UN Charter, and of the basic principles that underpin the international order. They strongly condemned the serious violations of international humanitarian law perpetrated by Russia’s forces in Ukraine, which have caused a devastating impact on the civilian population. Violence against civilians, including women, children, and prisoners of war is unacceptable.

    They expressed their outrage at Russia’s repeated attacks against critical infrastructure and they condemned in the strongest possible terms any targeting of civilian buildings and even hospitals. Ensuring the protection and resilience of Ukraine’s energy grid and its power generation capacity remains a fundamental and urgent priority as winter approaches. They welcomed the international conference on energy security held on August 22. .as well as the ongoing coordination of the G7 energy group. They reiterated their commitment to help Ukraine meet its urgent short-term financing needs, as well as support its long-term recovery and reconstruction priorities.

    Russia must end its war of aggression and pay for the damage it has caused to Ukraine. The G7 members reiterated their commitment to explore and use all possible lawful avenues by which Russia is made to meet those obligations.

    The launch of the Extraordinary Revenue Acceleration (ERA) Loans for Ukraine, as mandated by G7 leaders, will make available approximately USD 50 billion in additional funding to Ukraine that will be serviced and repaid by future flows of extraordinary revenues stemming from the immobilization of Russian sovereign assets held in the European Union and other relevant jurisdictions.

    The G7 Foreign Ministers and the High Representative are working, together with Finance Ministers, to operationalize the G7 Leaders’ commitment by the end of the year. They will maintain solidarity in this commitment to providing this support to Ukraine. The G7 members confirmed that, consistent with all applicable laws and their respective legal systems, Russia’s sovereign assets in their jurisdictions will remain immobilized until Russia ends its aggression and pays for the damage it has caused to Ukraine.

    They also committed to strengthening the Ukraine Donor Platform to help coordinate the disbursal of funds and ensure they align with Ukraine’s highest priority needs at a pace it can effectively absorb. This will play a key role in advancing Ukraine’s reforms in line with its European path and in contributing to a successful Ukraine Recovery Conference to be held in Italy in 2025.

    Any use of nuclear weapons by Russia in the context of its war of aggression against Ukraine would be inadmissible. They therefore condemned in the strongest possible terms Russia’s irresponsible and threatening nuclear rhetoric, as well as its posture of strategic intimidation. They also expressed their deepest concern about the reported use of chemical weapons as well as riot control agents as a method of warfare by Russia in Ukraine.

    The G7 members remained committed to holding those responsible accountable for atrocities in Ukraine, in line with international law. They also condemned the seizures of foreign companies and called on Russia to reverse these measures and seek acceptable solutions with the companies targeted by them.

    They condemned Russia’s seizure and continued control and militarization of Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, which poses severe risks for nuclear safety and security, potentially affecting the entire international community. They reiterated their support to the International Atomic Energy Agency’s efforts directed at mitigating such risks.

    They underlined once again their support for Ukraine’s right of self-defense and reiterated their commitment to Ukraine’s long-term security, recalling the launch of the Ukraine Compact in Washington on 11 July 2024. They re-affirmed the intention to increasing industrial production and delivery capabilities to assist Ukraine’s self-defense. They highlighted their support to Ukraine in its efforts to modernize its armed forces and strengthen its own defense industry. They expressed their resolve to bolster Ukraine’s air defense capabilities to save lives and protect critical infrastructure.

    They remained committed to raising the costs of Russia’s war of aggression by building on the comprehensive package of sanctions and economic measures already in place. Though existing measures have had a significant impact on Russia’s war machine and ability to fund its invasion, its military is still posing a threat not just to Ukraine but also to international security.

    The G7 members expressed the intention to continue taking appropriate measures, consistent with their legal systems, against actors in China and in third countries that materially support Russia’s war machine, including financial institutions, and other entities that facilitate Russia’s acquisition of items for its defense industrial base.

    They expressed their intention to continue to apply significant pressure on Russian revenues from energy and other commodities. This will include improving the efficacy of the oil price cap policy by taking further steps to tighten compliance and enforcement, including against Russia’s shadow fleet, while working to maintain market stability.

    They especially emphasized the urgency to support Ukraine’s energy security, including by coordinating international assistance through the G7+Ukraine Energy Coordination Group. They underscored the importance to continue working with the Ukrainian authorities and International Financial Institutions through the Ukraine Donor Platform, and by mobilizing private investments and fostering participation of civil society.

    They highlighted the reality of millions of internally displaced Ukrainians and the importance of an inclusive rights-based, gender-responsive recovery, including the reintegration of veterans and civilians with disabilities, and to address the needs of women, children as well as other population groups who have been disproportionately affected by Russia’s war of aggression. They reiterated their condemnation of Russia’s unlawful deportation of Ukrainian children and welcomed coordinated efforts to secure their safe return. They called on Russia to release all persons it has unjustly detained and safely return all civilians it has illegally transferred or deported, starting with children. They welcomed the Ministerial Conference on the Human Dimension of Ukraine’s 10 point peace formula that will be hosted by Canada on October 30-31.

    They reiterated the need to support Ukraine’s agriculture sector, which is critical for global food supply, particularly for the most vulnerable nations, and called for unimpeded exports of grain, foodstuffs, fertilizers and inputs from Ukraine.

    They acknowledged the importance to involve the private sector in the sustainable economic recovery of Ukraine. They welcomed and underscored the significance of Ukraine itself continuing to implement domestic reform efforts, especially in the fields of anti-corruption, justice system reform, decentralization, and promotion of the rule of law. These endeavors are in line with the Euro-Atlantic path Ukraine has embraced. The G7 members were unanimous on the need to continue to support efforts of the Ukrainian government and people in these endeavors.

    They resolutely condemned Russia’s holding of illegitimate ‘elections’ in the occupied Ukrainian Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol. Russia’s actions once again demonstrate its blatant disregard for Ukraine’s territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence, and the UN Charter. They called on all members of the international community to refrain from recognizing Russia’s illegitimate actions.

    They welcomed the Summit on Peace in Ukraine that took place in Switzerland on June 15-16 and its focus on the key priorities needed to achieve a framework for peace based on international law, including the UN Charter and its principles, and respect for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. They remained committed to follow up on the Conference through constructive engagement with all international partners to reach a comprehensive, just and lasting peace.

    The G7 members acknowledged that Russia continues to expand its campaigns of foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI). They condemned Russia’s use of FIMI to support its war of aggression against Ukraine. They reiterated their determination to bolster the G7 Rapid Response Mechanism by developing a collective response framework to counter foreign threats to democracies.

    4. Situation in the Middle East

    The G7 members reiterated their condemnation of Hamas’ horrendous attacks on October 7, 2023. 101 hostages are still in the hands of Hamas. They noted with deep concern the trend of escalatory violence in the Middle East and its repercussions on regional stability and on the lives of civilians shattered by this conflict, from the Gaza Strip to the Israeli-Lebanese Blue Line. Actions and counter-reactions risk magnifying this dangerous spiral of violence and dragging the entire Middle East into a broader regional conflict with unimaginable consequences. They called for a stop to the current destructive cycle, while emphasizing that no country stands to gain from a further escalation in the Middle East.

    They expressed their deep concern about the situation along the Blue Line. They recognized the essential stabilizing role played by the Lebanese Armed Forces and the UN Interim Force in Lebanon in mitigating that risk. They demanded the full implementation of UNSCR 1701 (2006) and urged that all relevant actors implement immediate measures towards de-escalation.

    The G7 members reaffirmed their strong support for the ongoing mediation efforts undertaken by the United States, Egypt and Qatar to reach a resolution between the parties to the conflict in Gaza. They reiterated their full commitment for the implementation of the UNSC Resolution 2735 (2024) and the comprehensive deal outlined by President Biden in May that would lead to an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the release of all hostages, a significant and sustained increase in the flow of humanitarian assistance throughout Gaza, and an enduring end to the crisis, to secure a pathway to a two-state solution with a safe Israel alongside a sovereign Palestinian state. They urged the parties to the conflict to unequivocally accept the ceasefire proposal, stressing the need for countries in a position to directly influence the parties to cooperate in strengthening mediation efforts. They called for the full implementation of the terms of the ceasefire proposal without delay and without conditions.

    They called on all parties to fully comply with international law, including international humanitarian law. They expressed their deep alarm for the heavy toll this conflict has taken on civilians, deploring all losses of civilian lives equally and noting with great concern that, after nearly a year of hostilities and regional instability, it is mostly civilians, including women and children, who are paying the highest price. Protection of civilians must be an absolute priority for all parties at all times.

    The G7 members expressed concern at the unprecedented level of food insecurity affecting most of the population in the Gaza Strip. Securing full, rapid, safe, and unhindered humanitarian access in all its forms and through all relevant crossing points remains an absolute priority. They urged all parties to allow the unimpeded delivery of aid and ensure protection of humanitarian workers by properly implementing de-confliction measures. They recognized the crucial role played by UN agencies and other humanitarian actors in delivering assistance especially health care for the most vulnerable persons, including the polio vaccination campaign. They expressed their support for UNRWA to effectively uphold its mandate, emphasizing the vital role that the UN Agency plays.

    The G7 members reaffirmed their unwavering commitment, through reinvigorated efforts in the Middle East Peace Process, to the vision of a two-state solution where two democratic states, Israel and Palestine, live side by side in peace within secure and recognized borders, consistent with international law and relevant UN resolutions, and in this regard stress the importance of unifying the Gaza strip with the West Bank under Palestinian Authority. We note that mutual recognition, to include the recognition of a Palestinian state, at the appropriate time, would be a crucial component of that political process. They expressed their concern about the risk of weakening the Palestinian Authority and underlined the importance of maintaining economic stability in the West Bank. They welcomed the EU’s 400 million Euro emergency package for the Palestinian Authority. All parties must refrain from unilateral actions and from divisive statements that may undermine the prospect of a two-state solution, including the Israeli expansion of settlements and the “legalization” of settlement outposts. They condemned the rise in extremist settler violence committed against Palestinians, which undermines security and stability in the West Bank and threatens prospects for a lasting peace. They expressed their deep concern regarding the deteriorating security situation in the West Bank.

    They reiterated their commitment to working together – and with other international partners – to closely coordinate and institutionalize their support for civil society peacebuilding efforts, ensuring that they are part of a larger strategy to build the foundation necessary for a negotiated and lasting Israeli-Palestinian peace. The G7 members called on Iran to contribute to de-escalation of tensions in the region. They demanded that Iran cease its destabilizing actions in the Middle East. They underlined that they stand ready to adopt further sanctions or take other measures in response to further destabilizing initiatives.

    They reiterated their determination that Iran must never develop or acquire a nuclear weapon and that the G7 will continue working together, and with other international partners, to address Iran’s nuclear escalation. A diplomatic solution remains the best way to resolve this issue. As the IAEA remains unable to verify that Iran’s nuclear program is exclusively peaceful, they urged Iran’s leadership to cease and reverse nuclear activities that have no credible civilian justification and to cooperate with the IAEA without further delay to fully implement their legally binding safeguards agreement and their commitments under UNSCR 2231(2015).

    They condemned in the strongest possible terms Iran’s export and Russia’s procurement of Iranian ballistic missiles. Evidence that Iran has continued to transfer weaponry to Russia despite repeated international calls to stop represents a further escalation of Iran’s military support to Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. Russia has used Iranian weaponry such as UAVs to kill Ukrainian civilians and strike their critical infrastructure.

    They reiterated that Iran must immediately cease all support to Russia’s illegal and unjustifiable war against Ukraine and halt such transfers of ballistic missiles, UAVs and related technology, which constitute a direct threat to the Ukrainian people as well as European and international security more broadly.

    They reaffirmed their steadfast commitment to hold Iran to account for its unacceptable support for Russia’s illegal war in Ukraine that further undermines global security. In line with their previous statements on the matter, they underscored that they are already responding with new and significant measures.

    They also reiterated their deep concern about Iran’s human rights violations, especially against women and minority groups. They reiterated their call on Iran to allow access to the country to relevant UN Human Rights Council Special Procedures mandate holders.

    De-escalation efforts in the region must also include the immediate and unconditional termination of any attack by the Houthis against international and commercial vessels transiting the Gulf of Aden, the Bab al-Mandeb Strait and the Red Sea. The G7 members reiterated their strong condemnation of these attacks and the right of countries to defend their vessels from attacks. They called for the immediate release by the Houthis of the Galaxy Leader and its crew. They expressed their strong concern about the August 21 attack on the merchant vessel Sounion and the ongoing risk of an environmental catastrophe as salvage operations continue. They welcomed the efforts by the EU maritime operation Aspides and by the US-led Operation Prosperity Guardian to protect vital sea lanes. They appreciated the efforts of those countries that are committed to protect freedom of navigation and trade, as well as maritime security, in line with UNSCR 2722 (2024) and in accordance with international law.

    5. Fostering partnerships with African Countries

    The G7 members reaffirmed their commitment to support African nations in the pursuit of sustainable development as well as the creation of jobs and growth. The focus remains on fostering fair partnerships, built on shared principles, democratic values, local leadership, and practical initiatives.

    They reiterated their intention to align actions with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the specific needs of African countries, including plans to improve local and regional food security, infrastructure, trade, and agricultural productivity. They expressed their support for the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area, a crucial factor for Africa’s growth in the next decade.

    The G7 members emphasized the need to strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation with African countries and regional organizations. In addition to maintaining financial support for African nations, they expressed their determination to improve the coordination and effectiveness of G7 resources, mobilizing domestic resources and encouraging increased private investments.

    They welcomed the African Union’s permanent membership in the G20, and the creation of an additional Chair for Sub-Saharan Africa on the IMF Executive Board in November.

    They reaffirmed their commitment to the G20 Compact with Africa, a tool aimed at enhancing private investment, driving structural reforms, supporting local entrepreneurship, and fostering cooperation, particularly in the energy sector. The G7 Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment (PGII), and initiatives like the EU’s Global Gateway can contribute to promote sustainable, resilient, and economically viable infrastructure in Africa, ensuring transparency in project selection, procurement, and financing. In this framework, they welcomed Italy’s Mattei Plan for Africa.

    They recognized that sustainable development, peace and security and democracy go hand in hand, reaffirming their commitment to help African governments in strengthening democratic governance and respect for human rights, while addressing conditions conducive to terrorism, violent extremism, and instability.

    They expressed their deep concern about the destabilizing activities of the Kremlin-backed Wagner Group and other Russia-supported entities. They called for accountability for all those responsible for human rights violations and abuses.

    6. Indo-Pacific

    The G7 members reiterated their commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific, based on the rule of law, which is inclusive, prosperous and secure, grounded on sovereignty, territorial integrity, peaceful resolution of disputes, fundamental freedoms and human rights. They reaffirmed the importance of working together with regional partners and organizations, notably the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). They reaffirmed their thorough support for ASEAN centrality and unity. They reaffirmed their intention to work to support Pacific Island Countries’ priorities, as articulated through the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.

    As they seek constructive and stable relations with China, they recognized the importance of direct and candid engagement to express concerns and manage differences. They reaffirmed their readiness to cooperate with China to address global challenges. They expressed their deep concern at the China’s support to Russia. They called on China to step up efforts to promote international peace and security, and to press Russia to stop its military aggression and immediately, completely and unconditionally withdraw its troops from Ukraine. They encouraged China to support a comprehensive, just and lasting peace based on territorial integrity and the principles and purposes of the UN Charter, including through its direct dialogue with Ukraine. They also expressed their deep concern at China’s ongoing support for Russia’s defense industrial base, which is enabling Russia to maintain its illegal war in Ukraine and has significant and broad-based security implications. They called on China to cease the transfer of dual-use materials, including weapons components and equipment, that are inputs for Russia’s defense sector.

    They recognized the importance of China in global trade. However, they expressed their concerns about China’s persistent industrial targeting and comprehensive non-market policies and practices that are leading to global spillovers, market distortions and harmful overcapacity in a growing range of sectors, undermining our workers, industries and economic resilience and security, as well as impacting on currencies. The G7 members are not decoupling or turning inwards. They are de-risking and diversifying supply chains where necessary and appropriate and fostering resilience to economic coercion. They called on China to refrain from adopting export control measures, particularly on critical minerals, that could lead to significant supply chain disruptions. Together with partners, the G7 members will invest in building their respective industrial capacities, promote diversified and resilient supply chains, and reduce critical dependencies and vulnerabilities.

    They remained seriously concerned about the situation in the East and South China Seas and reiterated their strong opposition to any unilateral attempt to change the status quo by force or coercion. They reaffirmed that there is no legal basis for China’s expansive maritime claims in the South China Sea, and they reiterated their opposition to China’s militarization and coercive and intimidation activities in the South China Sea. They re-emphasized the universal and unified character of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and reaffirmed UNCLOS’s important role in setting out the legal framework that governs all activities in the oceans and the seas. They reiterated that the award rendered by the Arbitral Tribunal on 12 July 2016 is a significant milestone, which is legally binding upon the parties to those proceedings and a useful basis for peacefully resolving disputes between the parties. They reiterated their strong opposition to China’s dangerous use of coast guard and maritime militia in the South China Sea and its repeated obstruction of countries’ high seas freedom of navigation. They expressed deep concern about the dangerous and obstructive maneuvers, including water cannons and ramming, by the China Coast Guard and maritime militia against Philippines vessels.

    The G7 members reaffirmed that maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait is indispensable to international security and prosperity, and called for the peaceful resolution of cross-Strait issues. There is no change in the basic position of the G7 members on Taiwan, including stated One-China policies. They supported Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organizations as a member where statehood is not a prerequisite and as an observer or guest where it is.

    They remained concerned by the human rights situation in China, including in Xinjiang and Tibet. They are also worried about the crackdown on Hong Kong’s autonomy and independent institutions, and ongoing erosion of rights and freedoms. They urged China and the Hong Kong authorities to act in accordance with their international commitments and applicable legal obligations.

    The G7 members strongly condemned North Korea’s continuing expansion of its unlawful nuclear and ballistic missile programs in violation of multiple UNSC resolutions and its continuous destabilizing activities. They reiterated their call for the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and demanded that North Korea abandons all its nuclear weapons, existing nuclear programs, and any other WMD and ballistic missile programs in a complete, verifiable and irreversible manner, in accordance with all relevant UNSC resolutions. They called on North Korea to return to dialogue to promote peace and stability in the Korean peninsula. They urged all UN Member States to fully implement all relevant UN Security Council resolutions. They reiterated their deep disappointment with Russia’s veto last March on the mandate renewal of the UNSC 1718 Committee Panel of Experts.

    They condemned in the strongest possible terms the increasing military cooperation between North Korea and Russia, including North Korea’s export and Russia’s procurement of North Korean ballistic missiles and munitions in direct violation of relevant UNSCRs, as well as Russia’s use of these missiles and munitions against Ukraine. They are also deeply concerned about the potential for any transfer of nuclear or ballistic missiles-related technology to North Korea, in violation of the relevant UNSCRs. They urged Russia and North Korea to immediately cease all such activities and abide by relevant UNSCRs. They urged North Korea to respect human rights, facilitate access for international humanitarian organizations, and resolve the abductions issue immediately.

    They called on China not to conduct or condone activities aimed at undermining the security and safety of our communities and the integrity of our democratic institutions, and to act in strict accordance with its obligations under the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations.

    7. Regional Issues

    Venezuela

    The G7 members reiterated their deep concern about the situation in Venezuela, following the vote on July 28.

    They emphasized that the announced victory of Maduro lacks credibility and democratic legitimacy, as indicated by reports of the UN Panel of Experts and independent international observers as well as data published by the opposition. They underscored that it is essential for electoral results to be complete and independently verified to ensure respect for the will of the Venezuelan people.

    They expressed their outrage for the arrest warrant and constant threats to the security of Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, who decided to seek refuge in Spain. According to the above-mentioned independent reports, Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia appears to have won the most votes.

    They urged Venezuelan representatives to cease all human rights violations and abuses, arbitrary detentions and widespread restrictions on fundamental freedoms, particularly affecting the political opposition, human rights defenders, and representatives of independent media and civil society. They called for the release of all political prisoners and for a path to freedom and democracy for the people of Venezuela.

    They urged the international community to keep Venezuela high on the diplomatic agenda and they expressed their support for efforts by regional partners to facilitate the Venezuelan-led democratic and peaceful transition that the people of Venezuela have clearly chosen in the polls.

    Haiti

    The G7 members expressed their determination to continue supporting Haitian institutions – including the Transitional Presidential Council (CPT) and the Government of Prime Minister Conille – in their commitment to create the necessary conditions of general security and stability for the convening, by February 2026, of free and fair elections. The expression of popular will would set the foundation for the full restoration of democracy and the rule of law in Haiti.

    They also expressed full support to the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission, which is providing critical support to the Haitian National Police as they counter criminal gangs engaged in illicit trafficking and inflicting brutal violence upon the population.

    The G7 members emphasized the importance of continued support to the MSS mission through financial contributions to the UN Trust Fund as well as contributions in kind. They expressed their strong appreciation for the commitment of the Government of Kenya – which has already deployed 380 personnel on the ground – to support the Haitian National Police in restoring peace and security.

    They called on all countries that have committed to deploy their contingents to the MSS mission to do so as soon as possible, to consolidate the mission and its fundamental role in the Country. They called on Haiti’s partners to continue their humanitarian assistance to the Haitian people and to expedite their financial and in-kind contributions to the MSS mission to help ensure that the mission is resourced for success.

    They called also on the United Nations Security Council to consider a UN Peace Operation to maintain the security gains of the Haiti National Police and the MSS mission for holding free and fair elections and called on the Secretary-General accordingly to provide support.

    The G7 members welcomed the work of the G7 Working Group on Haiti in monitoring institutional, political, social and security developments in Haiti, with a view to supporting the stabilization of the country and the restoration of full democratic governance.

    Libya

    The G7 members reiterated their unwavering commitment to Libyan stability, sovereignty, independence and unity. They expressed deep concern about recent developments in the country, in particular those involving the leadership of the Central Bank of Libya and the High Council of State, which show the fragility and unsustainability of the present status quo. They urged relevant Libyan parties to rapidly reach the necessary compromises to begin to restore the institutional integrity of the Central Bank of Libya and its standing with the international financial community. They called on Libyan political actors to refrain from taking harmful unilateral actions that create further political tension and fragmentation and make the country vulnerable to harmful foreign interference.

    They noted advances made in the organization of local elections and they called for a free, fair and inclusive participation of all Libyans. It is now imperative to relaunch a Libyan-led and Libyan-owned political process facilitated by the UN towards free and fair presidential and parliamentary elections.

    They expressed their support and commended the efforts made by UNSMIL officer in charge Stephanie Koury in support of the stabilization of Libya. They called on the Secretary General to appoint a new Special Representative without delay.

    Sudan

    The G7 members reiterated their grave concern over the ongoing fighting, mass-displacement and famine in Sudan.

    They condemned the serious human rights violations and abuses against the civilian population, including widespread sexual and gender-based violence, as well as international humanitarian law violations by both sides to the conflict. They called for an immediate end to the escalating violence, which is creating further displacement, and urged the warring parties to ensure the protection of civilians. They reiterated their commitment to holding accountable all those responsible for violations of international law in Sudan.

    They condemned the emergence of famine in Sudan as a direct consequence of efforts to restrict access of humanitarian actors. They noted recent progress in relation to the re-opening of the Chad-Sudan Adre border crossing, in the wake of the Paris Conference and of the Geneva talks. They called for full, rapid, safe, and unhindered humanitarian access both into Sudan and across lines of conflict so aid can reach all those in need.

    They urged all parties to cease hostilities immediately and to engage in serious negotiations aimed at achieving a lasting ceasefire, humanitarian access and protection of civilians without pre-conditions.

    They called on external actors to refrain from fueling the conflict, to respect the UN arms embargo on Darfur, and to play a responsible role in resolving the crisis.

    They welcomed mediation efforts by regional and international actors and organizations to facilitate a durable peace for the country.

    Inclusive, national dialogue, aimed at restoring democracy, re-establishing and strengthening the civilian and representative institutions after the end of the conflict, is a prerequisite for lasting peace. The G7 Members emphasized that it is necessary for representatives of Sudanese civil society, including women, to be fully engaged in the reflection on the political future of the country.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Translation: DDPS and municipalities agree on reference values for the introduction of the F-35A at Payerne Air Base

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

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in French

    Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport

    Bern, 25.09.2024 – The DDPS and the municipalities around the Payerne Air Base have been in discussions for some time about the economic development of the airfield and the noise pollution that will be caused by the new F-35A fighter jet. An agreement was reached on the reference values for the further procedure during a meeting attended by the President of the Swiss Confederation Viola Amherd, the municipalities concerned, the Regional Community of Broye (COREB) and the Association for the Protection of the Interests of the Municipalities Bordering the Airfield (ASIC). The calculations of the exposure to noise pollution take into account 4,200 take-offs and landings, and no training flights with F-35As will take place on Monday morning and Friday afternoon. The DDPS is setting up two working groups: one with a view to creating a training centre for aeronautical maintenance professions and the other to identify possibilities for developing and establishing jobs in the region. By withdrawing their preventive opposition, the municipalities are allowing the construction of the F-35A training centre for pilots and ground staff, which should offer around forty additional jobs in Payerne.

    In February 2022, the DDPS informed the municipalities around the Payerne Air Base of the results of the noise measurements carried out during the evaluation of the new combat aircraft and presented them with the calculations in December 2023. It then launched a coordination process to prepare the adaptation of the military sector plan. In this context, the stakeholders are discussing, among other things, the noise calculations and the air base regulations. For the calculations, the stakeholders agreed on a basis of 4,200 take-offs and landings. This represents around half of the current air movements and corresponds to the forecasts for the actual flight service contained in the summary report on noise measurements of February 2022. Annual fluctuations in actual air movements are not to be taken into account. By reducing the number of air movements, the Air Force will concentrate the flight service of the combat aircraft over time. No regular training with F-35As will take place on Monday mornings and Friday afternoons. The noise pollution register and regulations will be drawn up on the basis of these values and harmonised with the municipalities. In this regard, the DDPS will continue to examine and implement noise pollution reduction measures where possible.

    For the region, it is important that the continued development of Payerne as the main air base of the Air Force generates economic benefits for the region. This is why several discussions have taken place with a view to the establishment of jobs and the economic development of the aerodrome.

    Exchange of the President of the Confederation with the municipalities and the COREB

    At the beginning of September, Viola Amherd, head of the DDPS and president of the Confederation, met with representatives of the municipalities, the Regional Community of Broye (COREB) and the Association for the Protection of the Interests of the Broye Municipalities Affected by the Payerne Military Airfield (ASIC). In this context, the DDPS and the region agreed on two principles.

    Payerne, as a major military airfield with increasing civilian use, is to host a training centre for aircraft maintenance professions. This intention is to be implemented by a working group led by the DDPS and the Regional Community of Broye (COREB). This group is to bring together the relevant departments of the Confederation, the cantons of Fribourg and Vaud, RUAG and swiss aeropole. It will be set up in the coming weeks and will specify the procedure to follow. A second working group is to identify possibilities for developing and establishing jobs on the Payerne site. This group will be led by the DDPS and will be set up by the end of 2024. It is to involve in particular armasuisse, the Air Force, the cantons of Fribourg and Vaud, COREB, swiss aeropole and EPFL.

    New training centre with 40 additional jobs

    In autumn 2023, the DDPS put the building permit application for an F-35A training centre with a flight simulator and training facility for ground personnel under investigation. The Regional Community of Broye (COREB), the Association for the Protection of the Interests of Broye Municipalities Affected by the Payerne Military Airfield (ASIC) and 14 municipalities had filed preventive oppositions.

    Following the agreement reached, the municipalities withdrew their objections or confirmed their intention to do so. They allow the start of preparatory work for the construction of the training centre, after the formal approval of the building permit application in October. The buildings should be operational from mid-2028.

    Around forty jobs will be created for the training centre, which will allow pilots to carry out their training flights on simulators and ground personnel from all Air Forces to carry out their basic training.

    Construction measures for the F-35A

    A large part of the real estate infrastructure of the Payerne, Meiringen and Emmen air bases can be reused for the deployment of the F-35A, as its dimensions are similar to those of the F/A-18. Adaptations are necessary in terms of training infrastructure, technical facilities and security arrangements. For the construction measures, Parliament approved a commitment credit of CHF 120 million as part of the 2022 Armed Forces Message.

    The concepts and planning for the adaptation of the infrastructure to the F-35A have been prepared and verified in detail over the past twelve months in collaboration with the U.S. government’s F-35 project office, the F-35 Lightning II Joint Program Office, and manufacturers Lockheed Martin and Pratt.

    The construction phase at the Payerne airbase will begin in October. For Meiringen and Emmen, the submission of building permit applications is planned for the end of 2024. Work will begin from 2025.

    Address for sending questions

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

    Olivier Piccard, president of COREB 41 26 557 37 37olivier.piccard@vd.ch

    Author

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

    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: The Confederation closes its Mastodon instance

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

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in French

    Federal Chancellery

    Bern, 25.09.2024 – The Federal Chancellery has been operating a Mastodon instance for the federal administration since September 2023. The pilot project, which was limited to one year, ends today as the conditions for its continuation have not been met.

    As part of their legal information mandate, the Federal Council and the federal administration have also been communicating on social networks for many years and are constantly examining whether previously unused platforms are relevant.

    In September 2023, the Conference of Federal Information Services decided to launch a pilot project on the decentralised Mastodon platform. The Federal Chancellery then opened the social.admin.ch instance, on which members of the Federal Council and departments could manage official accounts. The pilot project was limited to one year.

    Mastodon has useful features for government communication. Thanks to its decentralized organization, the platform escapes the control of a single company and any state censorship. Its source code is open, it respects data protection and is not driven by algorithms.

    Too few active users

    On the social.admin.ch instance, three departments administered five accounts, and the Federal Chancellery administered one account for the entire Federal Council. The six accounts of the Confederation had around 3,500 subscribers in total.

    On platforms such as X or Instagram, the Federal Council and the Federal Administration reach significantly more subscribers with comparable accounts. In addition, the contributions of the Mastodon accounts of the Federal Council and the Federal Administration have rather low engagement rates (likes, shares, comments). Finally, the number of active Mastodon users worldwide is once again declining.

    The Conference of Information Services of the Confederation therefore considers that the conditions for continuing the pilot project have not been met, and activities on the Mastodon accounts of the Federal Council and the federal administration are suspended as of today. The social.admin.ch instance will be closed at the end of the month.

    Address for sending questions

    Urs BrudererHead of Communication Section058 483 99 69urs.bruderer@bk.admin.ch

    Author

    Federal Chancelleryhttps://www.bk.admin.ch/bk/fr/home.html

    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: Confederation closes its Mastodon case

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Italy –

    Source: Switzerland – Federal Chancellery

    Federal ChancelleryBern, 25.09.2024 – The Mastodon instance that the Federal Chancellery has been managing for the Federal Administration for a year will be closed. Its duration was limited to one year. The conditions for its continuation have not been met.The Federal Chancellery and the Federal Administration have been using social media for their communication for many years, in accordance with their statutory information mandate. To fulfill this mandate, they are constantly reviewing whether other platforms that have not yet been used would be suitable for their communication.In September 2023, the Conference of Intelligence Services (CSI) decided to launch a pilot experiment on the decentralized Mastodon platform. The Federal Chancellery therefore opened the «social.admin.ch» instance on which members of the Federal Council and the departments could manage their official accounts. The duration of the experiment was limited to one year.Mastodon has some of the characteristics for government-level communication. Thanks to its decentralized organization, the platform is not subject to the control of a single company or state censorship authorities. Its source code is publicly accessible, complies with data protection and is not controlled by algorithms. Few active usersA total of five accounts were operated by three departments on the «social.admin.ch» instance, and an additional account was operated by the Federal Chancellery for the entire Federal Council. The six accounts of the Confederation had around 3,500 followers. On platforms such as X or Instagram, the Federal Council and the Federal Administration have significantly more followers for the same number of accounts. In addition, the contributions from the Mastodon accounts of the Federal Council and the Administration had a rather low interaction rate (likes, shares, comments). And last but not least, the number of active users on Mastodon is once again decreasing worldwide. The CSI therefore believes that the conditions for a continuation of the pilot are not met. The Mastodon accounts of the Federal Council and the Federal Administration are closed from today, while the «social.admin.ch» instance will be closed at the end of the month.Address for enquiriesUrs BrudererHead of the Communications Section058 483 99 69urs.bruderer@bk.admin.chPublished byFederal Chancelleryhttps://www.bk.admin.ch/bk/it/home.html

    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: Chêne-Bourg: densification of a building zone on the banks of the Seymaz

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

    Source: Switzerland – Canton Government of Geneva in French

    The Council of State responded to a consultation of the Federal Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications (DETEC) on the partial revision of the ordinances on road signs (OSR) and regulating admission to road traffic (OAC).

    The revision of the OSR concerns in particular the integration of concrete technical standards developed by private law organisations into federal law in order to make them legally binding. It is accompanied by two new ordinances: one on the indication of direction at junctions and interchanges on motorways and semi-motorways, the other on special markings. It also implements the Motion 17.3952 Bühler “Allow bilingual signage on motorways”. In addition, it allows for the imposition of a fine on motorways and semi-motorways, not only for unauthorized overtaking on the right by pulling out and then merging, but also for unauthorized overtaking on the right.

    The Geneva government generally approves the proposed changes. However, it is asking that certain characteristics of construction site and hiking signage be coordinated with the new version of the OSR and that it be adapted in order to harmonize the use of paint on cycle paths or lanes to improve cyclist safety.

    Regarding the revision of the OAC, the Council of State expresses certain reservations, in particular concerning the traffic theory course (CTC). It opposes the obligation to follow this course before the basic theoretical examination, considering that the CTC takes on its full meaning when the student is directly confronted with the reality of the road.

    For further media information: Mr. Santiago Achi, Technical Manager, Arve-Lac Regional Directorate, OCT, DSM, T. 022 546 78 94.

    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: Decisions of the Grand Council – meeting of September 24

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

    Source: Swiss Canton of Vaud – news in French

    Breadcrumbs

    vd.ch
    News
    Decisions of the Grand Council – meeting of September 24

    Published on 25.09.2024

    Every Tuesday, the 150 members of the cantonal parliament elected by the people meet. The debates are public and online. The decisions of the session of June 25 are online.

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  • MIL-OSI Translation: Weekly press release from the Council of State of September 25, 2024

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

    Source: Switzerland – Canton Government of Geneva in French

    The Council of State responded to a consultation of the Federal Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications (DETEC) on the partial revision of the ordinances on road signs (OSR) and regulating admission to road traffic (OAC).

    The revision of the OSR concerns in particular the integration of concrete technical standards developed by private law organisations into federal law in order to make them legally binding. It is accompanied by two new ordinances: one on the indication of direction at junctions and interchanges on motorways and semi-motorways, the other on special markings. It also implements the Motion 17.3952 Bühler “Allow bilingual signage on motorways”. In addition, it allows for the imposition of a fine on motorways and semi-motorways, not only for unauthorized overtaking on the right by pulling out and then merging, but also for unauthorized overtaking on the right.

    The Geneva government generally approves the proposed changes. However, it is asking that certain characteristics of construction site and hiking signage be coordinated with the new version of the OSR and that it be adapted in order to harmonize the use of paint on cycle paths or lanes to improve cyclist safety.

    Regarding the revision of the OAC, the Council of State expresses certain reservations, in particular concerning the traffic theory course (CTC). It opposes the obligation to follow this course before the basic theoretical examination, considering that the CTC takes on its full meaning when the student is directly confronted with the reality of the road.

    For further media information: Mr. Santiago Achi, Technical Manager, Arve-Lac Regional Directorate, OCT, DSM, T. 022 546 78 94.

    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: Signalling and admission to road traffic: support with reservations for the modification of the ordinances

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

    Source: Switzerland – Canton Government of Geneva in French

    The Council of State responded to a consultation of the Federal Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications (DETEC) on the partial revision of the ordinances on road signs (OSR) and regulating admission to road traffic (OAC).

    The revision of the OSR concerns in particular the integration of concrete technical standards developed by private law organisations into federal law in order to make them legally binding. It is accompanied by two new ordinances: one on the indication of direction at junctions and interchanges on motorways and semi-motorways, the other on special markings. It also implements the Motion 17.3952 Bühler “Allow bilingual signage on motorways”. In addition, it allows for the imposition of a fine on motorways and semi-motorways, not only for unauthorized overtaking on the right by pulling out and then merging, but also for unauthorized overtaking on the right.

    The Geneva government generally approves the proposed changes. However, it is requesting that certain characteristics of construction site and hiking signage be coordinated with the new version of the OSR and that it be adapted in order to harmonize the use of paint on cycle paths or lanes to improve cyclist safety.

    Regarding the revision of the OAC, the Council of State expresses certain reservations, in particular concerning the traffic theory course (CTC). It opposes the obligation to follow this course before the basic theoretical examination, considering that the CTC takes on its full meaning when the student is directly confronted with the reality of the road.

    For further media information: Mr. Santiago Achi, Technical Manager, Arve-Lac Regional Directorate, OCT, DSM, T. 022 546 78 94.

    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: Third allocation 2024 of the cantonal share of the profits of the Loterie romande

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

    Source: Switzerland – Canton Government of Geneva in French

    The Council of State responded to a consultation of the Federal Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications (DETEC) on the partial revision of the ordinances on road signs (OSR) and regulating admission to road traffic (OAC).

    The revision of the OSR concerns in particular the integration of concrete technical standards developed by private law organisations into federal law in order to make them legally binding. It is accompanied by two new ordinances: one on the indication of direction at junctions and interchanges on motorways and semi-motorways, the other on special markings. It also implements the Motion 17.3952 Bühler “Allow bilingual signage on motorways”. In addition, it allows for the imposition of a fine on motorways and semi-motorways, not only for unauthorized overtaking on the right by pulling out and then merging, but also for unauthorized overtaking on the right.

    The Geneva government generally approves the proposed changes. However, it is asking that certain characteristics of construction site and hiking signage be coordinated with the new version of the OSR and that it be adapted in order to harmonize the use of paint on cycle paths or lanes to improve cyclist safety.

    Regarding the revision of the OAC, the Council of State expresses certain reservations, in particular concerning the traffic theory course (CTC). It opposes the obligation to follow this course before the basic theoretical examination, considering that the CTC takes on its full meaning when the student is directly confronted with the reality of the road.

    For further media information: Mr. Santiago Achi, Technical Manager, Arve-Lac Regional Directorate, OCT, DSM, T. 022 546 78 94.

    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: Yes to strengthening higher vocational training, but not to the detriment of other sectors

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

    Source: Switzerland – Canton Government of Geneva in French

    The Council of State responded to a consultation of the Federal Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications (DETEC) on the partial revision of the ordinances on road signs (OSR) and regulating admission to road traffic (OAC).

    The revision of the OSR concerns in particular the integration of concrete technical standards developed by private law organisations into federal law in order to make them legally binding. It is accompanied by two new ordinances: one on the indication of direction at junctions and interchanges on motorways and semi-motorways, the other on special markings. It also implements the Motion 17.3952 Bühler “Allow bilingual signage on motorways”. In addition, it allows for the imposition of a fine on motorways and semi-motorways, not only for unauthorized overtaking on the right by pulling out and then merging, but also for unauthorized overtaking on the right.

    The Geneva government generally approves the proposed changes. However, it is asking that certain characteristics of construction site and hiking signage be coordinated with the new version of the OSR and that it be adapted in order to harmonize the use of paint on cycle paths or lanes to improve cyclist safety.

    Regarding the revision of the OAC, the Council of State expresses certain reservations, in particular concerning the traffic theory course (CTC). It opposes the obligation to follow this course before the basic theoretical examination, considering that the CTC takes on its full meaning when the student is directly confronted with the reality of the road.

    For further media information: Mr. Santiago Achi, Technical Manager, Arve-Lac Regional Directorate, OCT, DSM, T. 022 546 78 94.

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canada to Host Ministerial Conference on the Human Dimension of Ukraine’s 10-Point Peace Formula

    Source: Government of Canada News

    News release

    September 25, 2024 – New York, New York – Global Affairs Canada

    The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced that Canada, together with co-organizers Norway and Ukraine, will host the Ministerial Conference on the Human Dimension of Ukraine’s 10-Point Peace Formula on October 30-31, 2024.

    The Ministerial Conference will bring together Foreign Affairs Ministers to advance the common vision articulated by the Joint Communiqué on a Peace Framework developed at the Summit on Peace in Ukraine at Bürgenstock, Switzerland, in June 2024.

    During the conference, Ministers will exchange views with the aim of developing a concrete plan, guided by the principles of international human rights and humanitarian law, for the return of prisoners of war as well as deported civilians and children back to Ukraine. The Conference participants will also aim to strengthen the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children, integrate the Women, Peace and Security perspective into the 10-Point Peace Formula, and identify approaches for post-return rehabilitation and reintegration for Ukrainian returnees.

    Quotes

    “Canada continues to deploy significant efforts to raise awareness of, and advocate on the issue of, illegally detained and deported Ukrainians, a critical issue dating back to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2014 that has been exacerbated since the launch of Russia’s full-scale war of aggression in 2022. I look forward to welcoming my counterparts to Canada and exchanging views on how the international community can support Ukraine in its efforts for a comprehensive, just and lasting peace.”

    – Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada

    “The release of all prisoners and deported persons from Russian captivity, including children, is Ukraine’s top priority. I look forward to working together on the solutions that will ensure the return of our people back home and the restoration of just and lasting peace in Ukraine.”

    – Andrii Sybiha, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine

    “The return of all our people—every detained and deported Ukrainian—is a fundamental precondition for a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in Ukraine. The human dimension is one of the core elements of Ukraine’s Peace Formula. It is crucial that we, as an international community, unite our efforts in Canada to find solutions that will bring every Ukrainian home.”

    – Andriy Yermak, Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine

    “Russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine has lasted for more than two and a half years. The ongoing hostilities and occupation of Ukrainian territory continuously expose Ukrainian civilians to the risk of detention by Russian forces or agents and other violations. The scale and complexity of the many thousands of Ukrainians in detention, children as well as adults, call for closer scrutiny by the world community on how to stop it, and I look forward to working closely with my Ukrainian and Canadian colleagues on this important agenda.”

    – Espen Barth Eide, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Norway

    Quick facts

    • President Volodymyr Zelenskyy introduced Ukraine’s 10-Point Peace Formula in November 2022 at the G20 summit. In August 2023, ten working groups were established, each dedicated to a specific pillar of the 10-point Peace Formula. Canada, along with Norway, are co-chairs of Working Group 4, which focuses on the return of prisoners of war, detained civilians, and illegally transferred and deported children.

    • Canada and Ukraine co-lead the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children. Launched in February 2024, in Kyiv, this coalition has expanded to 40 states, including some non-Western countries.

    • In June 2024, Ukraine and Switzerland hosted the Summit on Peace in Ukraine, a diplomatic initiative to garner international support for Ukraine’s Peace Formula. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau attended the summit and chaired a breakout session on the human dimension of the war in Ukraine. He also announced that Canada will host a ministerial conference on this human dimension this year.

    Associated links

    Contacts

    Media Relations Office
    Global Affairs Canada
    media@international.gc.ca
    Follow us on Twitter: @CanadaFP
    Like us on Facebook: Canada’s foreign policy – Global Affairs Canada

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Canada to host ministerial conference on human dimension of Ukraine’s 10-point peace formula

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Government of Canada – in French 1

    Press release

    September 25, 2024 – New York, New York – Global Affairs Canada

    The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced that Canada, with the support of Norway and Ukraine as co-hosts, will host the Ministerial Conference on the Human Dimension of Ukraine’s 10-Point Peace Formula on October 30-31, 2024.

    The Ministerial Conference will bring together foreign ministers to advance the vision set out in the Joint Communiqué on the Peace Framework, developed at the Ukraine Peace Summit in Bürgenstock, Switzerland, in June 2024.

    During the conference, the ministers will exchange views with the aim of developing a concrete plan, guided by international principles of human rights and humanitarian law, for the return to Ukraine of prisoners of war, as well as the civilian population and deported children. The conference participants will also aim to strengthen the International Coalition for the Repatriation of Ukrainian Children, to integrate the perspective of women, peace and security into the 10-point peace formula, and to identify approaches for the rehabilitation and reintegration of Ukrainian women and men repatriated to the country.

    Quotes

    “Canada continues to work hard to raise awareness and advocate on the issue of illegally detained and deported Ukrainians, a major issue that dates back to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2014 and has been exacerbated since Russia launched its full-scale war of aggression in 2022. I look forward to welcoming my counterparts to Canada and discussing how the international community can support Ukraine in its efforts to achieve a comprehensive, just and lasting peace.”

    – Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada

    “The release of all prisoners and detainees, as well as all those deported to Russia, including children, is Ukraine’s top priority. I look forward to working together to find solutions that will ensure the return of our citizens and the restoration of a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.”

    – Andrii Sybiha, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine

    “The return of our people, that is, all detained and deported Ukrainians, is an essential condition for a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine. The human dimension is one of the essential elements of Ukraine’s peace formula. It is essential that we, as the international community, join forces with Canada to find solutions that will allow all Ukrainians to return home.”

    – Andriy Yermak, Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine

    “Russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine has been going on for over two and a half years. The ongoing hostilities and occupation of Ukrainian territory place the Ukrainian civilian population at constant risk of detention by Russian forces or agents and other aggression. The scale and complexity of the detention of thousands of Ukrainians, both children and adults, demands that the global community take a closer look at how to end it, and I look forward to working closely with my colleagues from Ukraine and Canada on this important issue.”

    – Espen Barth Eide, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Norway

    Quick Facts

    President Volodymyr Zelenskyy presented Ukraine’s 10-Point Peace Formula in November 2022 at the G20 Summit. In August 2023, ten working groups were established, each dedicated to a pillar of the 10-Point Peace Formula. Canada and Norway co-chair Working Group 4, which focuses on the return of prisoners of war, civilians in detention, and illegally transferred and deported children.

    Canada and Ukraine co-lead the International Coalition for the Repatriation of Ukrainian Children. Launched in February 2024 in Kyiv, this coalition has expanded to 40 states, including some non-Western countries.

    In June 2024, Ukraine and Switzerland hosted the Ukraine Peace Summit, a diplomatic initiative aimed at garnering international support for Ukraine’s peace formula. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau attended the summit and chaired a discussion session on the human dimension of the war in Ukraine. He also announced that Canada would host a ministerial conference on the human dimension this year.

    Related links

    Contact persons

    Media Relations OfficeGlobal Affairs Canadamedia@international.gc.caFollow us on Twitter: @CanadaPELike us on Facebook: Canada’s foreign policy – Global Affairs Canada

    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: 2025 Budget: compliance with the debt brake, compensation for cost increases and reduction of the tax scale

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

    Source: Canton of Neuchatel Switzerland

    09/25/2024

    ​The State Council presents its 2025 budget project, in a situation still marked by a favorable economic climate. Despite the increases in expenses in certain areas of activity, the income statement shows a surplus of revenue of 29.9 million francs and meets the requirements of the debt brake. Significant investments are also expected. In addition, a further reduction in the tax scale is proposed.

    After three accounting and budgetary years particularly marked by a favourable economic context, the 2025 budget of the State of Neuchâtel presents a surplus of revenue of 29.9 million francs on a total of 2.5 billion in expenses. Fulfilling the requirements of the debt brake, it makes it possible to amortize 1% of the State’s overdraft while ensuring the self-financing, up to 71.2%, of a significant investment envelope.

    Significantly up on previous years, investments amount to nearly 147 million, with a decisive share representing 5.2% of revenues. While an envelope of this size represented an additional challenge in terms of self-financing, it reflects the many projects started in recent years that are now in their implementation phase. For the Council of State, this is a decisive period during which investment expenditure will have to remain at a high level in order to meet the major challenges of modernizing, making the canton more attractive and improving its infrastructure.

    Positive revenue dynamics

    Despite some signs of slowdown already perceived in the Neuchâtel economy, tax forecasts continue for the time being to benefit from the good economic situation, the fall in unemployment and inflation. Tax revenues should therefore remain at a level close to 2023, a sign of positive dynamics of resources that will help to mitigate significant increases observed in several areas of expenses.

    Among other important sources of financing, the 2025 budget benefits from a significant increase in revenues received by the Canton as part of the federal financial equalization and takes into account an improvement in the outlook linked to a resumption of ordinary payments from the Swiss National Bank (SNB). While they allow us to approach 2025 with a certain serenity, these developments nevertheless call for the greatest caution given the high level of uncertainty that characterizes them and the total lack of influence exercised by the Canton. This caution is all the more important given that multiple issues are currently threatening the stability of public finances.

    Need to control loads

    As a sign of the many challenges that the Canton is currently facing, the 2025 budget includes significant increases in charges, particularly in the social and health sectors, where demographic change is now clearly having an impact. The rise in health costs requires, in particular, ever-increasing resources allocated to health institutions, but also to health insurance subsidies or in the area of supplementary benefits.

    Expenditure is also increasing in the area of training, or in that of mobility with allowances paid to public transport companies which continue to grow. In addition to these, there are the many additional efforts that the Canton has committed to making in climate protection.

    Finally, the redistribution to the municipalities of half of the federal contribution for the compensation of geotopographical overloads, which represents a burden of more than 10 million francs for the Canton, is not subject to any compensation this year and is therefore fully assumed by the State budget.

    Faced with these major challenges, it is now imperative that the Canton of Neuchâtel controls its expenses and achieves a sustainable clean-up of public finances.

    Compensation for cost increases and reduction of the tax scale

    The 2025 budget remains impacted by inflationary pressure which, despite a clear slowdown observed in recent months, still has significant effects on many areas of State activity as well as on household purchasing power. For 2025, the Council of State therefore proposes full compensation for the increase in civil service salaries. It also proposes catching up on the indexation reserve that had to be maintained in 2024. A measure that has an overall impact on the State budget of around 30 million francs.

    Furthermore, convinced that Neuchâtel taxpayers must also benefit from the good economic situation and its positive financial consequences for the State and the municipalities, the Council of State invites the Grand Council to adopt a new temporary reduction in the personal income tax scale, at a rate of 1%, which is added to the previous one. This proposal, the financial implications of which are already included in the 2025 budget, should allow the canton to continue this logic of modest progress in order to maintain and improve its attractiveness.

    Efforts still needed in the medium term

    The 2026-2028 financial and task plan still shows significant deficits of between 30 and 50 million, which do not include the potential deferrals of charges from the Confederation to the cantons or the impact of the responses to the various cantonal initiatives. These worrying projections and prospects should encourage the State to conduct a prudent financial policy in order to maintain sufficient room for maneuver to react in the event of an economic downturn. Significant additional efforts will therefore be necessary during the next legislature to guarantee the stability of public finances, an essential condition for being able to respond effectively to future challenges without jeopardizing compliance with the debt brake.

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Global Bodies – IPU Assembly to focus on AI, science and technology

    Source: Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU)

    Geneva, 24 September 2024 – Hundreds of parliamentarians from around the world will gather in Geneva for the 149th IPU Assembly, taking place from 13-17 October 2024.

    Under the overarching theme: Harnessing science, technology, and innovation for a more peaceful and sustainable future, legislators will consider parliamentary action to maximize the benefits, but also mitigate the risks, of new technologies, with a particular focus on artificial intelligence (AI).  

    Bertrand Picard, Swiss psychiatrist, explorer and technology pioneer, will address the Assembly on the importance of placing humanity back at the centre of science and innovation.

    IPU Charter on the Ethics of Science and Technology

    The Assembly is set to adopt a new Charter on the Ethics of Science and Technology, drafted by the IPU’s Working Group on Science and Technology.

    The Charter aims to create a regulatory framework of principles to guide legislation and decision-making, ensuring that science and technology serve to benefit humanity, society and the environment.

    Addressing the impact of AI on democracy

    Parliamentarians are also expected to adopt an IPU resolution entitled The impact of artificial intelligence on democracy, human rights and the rule of law.

    The resolution urges parliaments “to develop strong legal frameworks and policies for the responsible creation, deployment and use of AI technology”.

    It seeks to address the vulnerabilities of democratic institutions to AI and mitigate harmful impacts such as the spread of misinformation, hate speech, or incitement of violence through AI-generated content.

    Marking the 25th anniversary of the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention

    The Assembly will commemorate the 25th anniversary of the entry into force of the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention (APMBC) and its role in reducing the harm caused by anti-personnel mines.

    H.R.H. Prince Mired Raad Zeid Al-Hussein of Jordan, Special Envoy for the APMBC, will participate, encouraging parliaments that have not yet ratified the Convention to do so.

    2024 Cremer-Passy Prize

    The winner of the 2024 Cremer-Passy Prize will be announced during the Assembly. This prestigious award, now in its third edition, will recognize an outstanding parliamentarian who has made an exceptional contribution to supporting peace efforts.

    A full programme of parliamentary meetings

    Throughout the Assembly, various IPU bodies will convene, including the four thematic Standing Committees, the Forum of Women Parliamentarians, the Forum of Young Parliamentarians, and the Committee on the Human Rights of Parliamentarians.

    Additionally, IPU bodies dedicated to parliamentary diplomacy and maintaining dialogue between countries at war will meet, including the IPU Task Force for the peaceful resolution of the war in Ukraine and the IPU Committee on Middle East Questions.

    Practical details

    Date: 13-17 October 2024.

    Venue: The International Conference Centre Geneva (CICG), 7 rue de Varembé, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland.

    Media attendance: All UN-accredited media representatives will be able to access the Assembly venue. For international media travelling to Geneva, please register here https://registration.ipu.org/event/149Assembly/regProcessStep1

    The Assembly will be livestreamed at ipu.org/149

    The IPU is the global organization of national parliaments. It was founded more than 130 years ago as the first multilateral political organization in the world, encouraging cooperation and dialogue between all nations. Today, the IPU comprises 180 national Member Parliaments and 15 regional parliamentary bodies. It promotes democracy and helps parliaments develop into stronger, younger, greener, more gender-balanced and more innovative institutions. It also defends the human rights of parliamentarians through a dedicated committee made up of MPs from around the world.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Readout of the Secretary-General’s meeting with H.E. Ms. Viola Amherd, President of the Swiss Confederation [scroll down for French]

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    The Secretary-General met with H.E. Ms. Viola Amherd, President of the Swiss Confederation. The Secretary-General and the President discussed Switzerland’s role on the Security Council. They also exchanged views on the war in Ukraine and the situation in Afghanistan.

    The Secretary-General also expressed support for Switzerland’s engagement in the field of Women Peace and Security.  

    *****

    Le Secrétaire général a rencontré S.E. Mme Viola Amherd, Présidente de la Confédération suisse. Le Secrétaire général et la Présidente ont discuté du rôle de la Suisse au sein du Conseil de sécurité. Ils ont également échangé des points de vue sur la guerre en Ukraine et la situation en Afghanistan.

    Le Secrétaire général a également exprimé son soutien à l’engagement de la Suisse dans le domaine des femmes, de la paix et de la sécurité.  

    MIL OSI United Nations News

  • MIL-OSI Translation: “Living together” program: nine initial actions supported to address climate change

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

    Source: Canton of Neuchatel Switzerland

    18.09.2024

    ​The call for projects launched last May as part of the Neuchâtel Climate Plan to strengthen local resilience in the face of climate challenges was a great success: 21 projects were submitted during the first deadline set. Among these, nine actions were selected to be supported with a total amount of 42,000 francs. Other projects have already been announced for the 2nd deadline scheduled for October 31.

    Creating social ties, consolidating support networks and strengthening collaboration are at the heart of the “living together” program, initiated by the canton last spring to mitigate the social consequences of global warming. The call was heard: despite an initial deadline set just a few weeks before the launch, no fewer than 21 projects have been submitted and several other interesting actions have already been announced for the future.

    Among a multitude of exciting ideas working for solidarity and cooperation, in connection with climate issues, the project selection committee, made up of people from the canton, municipalities and civil society, has selected nine initial projects that it proposes to support with a total amount of 42,000 francs. In addition, other requests for support are currently undergoing additional analysis. In addition, all the individuals and associations that have mobilized to participate in the program will be encouraged to join the dynamic created and synergies will be sought to explore all possible avenues of collaboration.

    The projects already supported to date will, for example, strengthen the circular economy, facilitate the emergence of new projects, raise awareness of environmental issues or promote eco-responsible consumption. A presentation file for this first batch of selected projects is attached in the appendix.

    As a reminder, all useful information on the “living together” program can be found on www.ne.ch/vivre-ensembleThe program will run until 2027, with a total budget of 400,000 francs. The next deadline for submitting support applications is October 31, 2024. Other calls for projects will be organized subsequently and the ambition is also to consolidate a movement of solidarity transition in the long term, in a logic of co-construction.

    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: Weekly press release from the Council of State of September 18, 2024

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

    Source: Switzerland – Canton Government of Geneva in French

    Véronique Athané Ryser, new general director of SIG. © Magali Girardin/ SIG

    On the proposal of the Board of Directors of the Geneva Industrial Services (SIG), the State Council approved the appointment of Ms. Véronique Athané Ryser to the position of General Manager.

    Born in 1976, Ms. Athané Ryser is a mechanical engineer, graduated from INSA and EPFL. Since 2020, she has held the position of Executive Director of Distribution Network Management at SIG. She has demonstrated her skills as a high-level manager, managing a department of 550 employees in a wide variety of fields, successfully completing complex projects while actively participating in the smooth running of the company’s general management.

    The Council of State notes that the recruitment process was conducted efficiently. It takes this opportunity to thank Mr. Alain Zbinden, Acting Managing Director, and Mr. Robert Cramer, Chairman of the Board of Directors, for their unwavering commitment in recent months and wishes Ms. Athané Ryser every success in carrying out her new duties.

    For further media information: Mr Antonio Hodgers, State Councillor, by contacting Mr Jérôme Savary, Deputy Secretary General, DT, T. 022 327 94 18.

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

    MIL Translation OSI