NewzIntel.com

Category: Tourism

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Mobility for senior citizens across the EU – E-001731/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001731/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Seán Kelly (PPE)

    With numerous Member States offering discounted or cheaper travel passes for their senior citizens at regional and national level, this promotes independence of older citizens, while ensuring that their mobility remains a priority.

    Has the Commission considered the possibility of developing an initiative where an EU-wide discount is provided to senior citizens to facilitate their travel within the EU? Could such a system be modelled on the implementation of the European disability card and European parking card system? This could also contribute to the tourism industries across all Member States.

    Submitted: 17.9.2024

    Last updated: 23 September 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Work options and wellbeing support important for Māori businesses – Stats NZ media and information release: Tatauranga umanga Māori – Statistics on Māori businesses: 2023 (English)

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Work options and wellbeing support important for Māori businesses – 29 August 2024

    More Māori businesses offered wellbeing, support, and flexible work options on average compared with all New Zealand businesses across firm size and industry, according to figures released by Stats NZ today.

    Figures from 2023 showed that 82 percent of Māori authorities and 77 percent of other Māori enterprises offered options for mental health and wellbeing support, like access to counselling. Comparatively, 53 percent of all New Zealand businesses offered similar support.

    A higher percentage of Māori businesses, around two-thirds, offered support options for physical health and wellbeing, like vision tests, compared with all New Zealand businesses. These support options were offered by 63 percent of Māori authorities and 69 percent of other Māori enterprises, compared with 48 percent of all New Zealand businesses.

    “These statistics likely reflect the importance Māori businesses place on their staff’s personal wellbeing and hauora,” Tatauranga umanga Māori manager Geraldine Duoba said.

    Visit Statistics NZ’s website to read the news stories and information releases in both English and te reo Māori, and to access the technical report in English only. You can also download CSV files.

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Employment in Māori tourism businesses increases by 25 percent in 2023 – Stats NZ media and information release: Tatauranga umanga Māori – Statistics on Māori businesses: 2023 (English)

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Employment in Māori tourism businesses increases by 25 percent in 2023 – 29 August 2024

    Māori tourism employee counts increased by 25 percent from 2022, to 3,450 in 2023, according to figures released by Stats NZ today.

    The biggest increases in employment counts were in the arts and recreational services, and accommodation and food services industries. Compared with 2022, employee counts in arts and recreational services businesses in 2023 increased by 46 percent to 1,050. In accommodation and food services businesses, the increase was 19 percent to 1,850.

    “We are seeing employee numbers for most Māori tourism industries return to pre-COVID levels,” Tatauranga umanga Māori manager Geraldine Duoba said.

    Employees in Māori tourism businesses numbered 3,500 in 2020.

    Visit Statistics NZ’s website to read the news stories and information releases in both English and te reo Māori, and to access the technical report in English only. You can also download CSV files.

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Secretary-General’s video message to the Leaders Meeting of the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS)

    Source: United Nations – English

    strong>Download the video:
    https://s3.amazonaws.com/downloads2.unmultimedia.org/public/video/evergreen/MSG+SG+/SG+20+Sept+24/MSG+SG+AOSIS+Leaders+Meeting.mp4

    Excellencies, friends,

    Small Island States have a big impact in our world.

    You place defining issues for humanity and the planet firmly on the global agenda.

    You show the power of multilateralism through unity, collaboration, and determination.

    And you lead internationally on many fronts — not least with your new Declaration on Sea Level Rise and Statehood.

    But global crises have an outsize impact.

    The climate crisis is pounding your communities and economies – and compounding the effects of years of global economic turmoil.

    In many of your countries, tourism – which is so central to economies and livelihoods – has not fully recovered from COVID-19.  

    The global cost-of living crisis has hit you hard.

    And a number of you are grappling with debt – forcing you to service it instead of investing in your people.

    But I see AOSIS leading the charge for change.

    The United Nations is proud to stand with you and to partner with you to deliver on the recently adopted Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS.

    Together we must keep pushing for action on climate and on finance.

    We need new national climate plans – or NDCs – from all countries that align with limiting global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

    These new climate plans should double as investment plans, boosting sustainable, resilient development, and targeting inequalities.
     
    The biggest emitters – the G20 – must lead these efforts, including a fair global phase out of fossil fuels.

    I am working with President Lula of Brazil to drive action in the G20.

    But the moral authority and dynamism of AOSIS will be critical.

    You did the least to cause this crisis. You account for just 0.2% of global emissions. But you play an outsized role in holding the biggest emitters to account.

    We must also call for significant contributions to the new Loss and Damage Fund and press developed countries to honour their promises on adaptation finance.

    And all countries must reach an ambitious agreement at COP29 – including on new and innovative finance.

    More broadly, your nations need fundamental action, to scale-up development and climate finance, scale-down the cost of such capital, and tackle the sovereign debt crisis.

    We welcome the SIDS Debt Sustainability Support Service.

    And the Summit of the Future has shown that it is possible to make the international financial system bigger, bolder and more representative of today’s world.

    We must keep pressing for change – including at the Fourth Financing for Development Conference.

    My congratulations on the General Assembly’s recent endorsement of the Multidimensional Vulnerability Index. 

    We must ensure that vulnerable middle-income countries can access concessional funds. 

    Your efforts mean the eligibility and access of these countries to concessional finance can no longer be ignored.

    Let’s keep up the pressure on the Multilateral Development Banks to incorporate structural vulnerability into their lending criteria.

    The United Nations is with you – speaking in harmony, and standing in solidarity.

    Let’s keep working for the change you — and our world — need.

    Thank you.  
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s video message to the Leaders Meeting of the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS)

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    Download the video:
    https://s3.amazonaws.com/downloads2.unmultimedia.org/public/video/evergreen/MSG+SG+/SG+20+Sept+24/MSG+SG+AOSIS+Leaders+Meeting.mp4

    Excellencies, friends,

    Small Island States have a big impact in our world.

    You place defining issues for humanity and the planet firmly on the global agenda.

    You show the power of multilateralism through unity, collaboration, and determination.

    And you lead internationally on many fronts — not least with your new Declaration on Sea Level Rise and Statehood.

    But global crises have an outsize impact.

    The climate crisis is pounding your communities and economies – and compounding the effects of years of global economic turmoil.

    In many of your countries, tourism – which is so central to economies and livelihoods – has not fully recovered from COVID-19.  

    The global cost-of living crisis has hit you hard.

    And a number of you are grappling with debt – forcing you to service it instead of investing in your people.

    But I see AOSIS leading the charge for change.

    The United Nations is proud to stand with you and to partner with you to deliver on the recently adopted Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS.

    Together we must keep pushing for action on climate and on finance.

    We need new national climate plans – or NDCs – from all countries that align with limiting global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

    These new climate plans should double as investment plans, boosting sustainable, resilient development, and targeting inequalities.
     
    The biggest emitters – the G20 – must lead these efforts, including a fair global phase out of fossil fuels.

    I am working with President Lula of Brazil to drive action in the G20.

    But the moral authority and dynamism of AOSIS will be critical.

    You did the least to cause this crisis. You account for just 0.2% of global emissions. But you play an outsized role in holding the biggest emitters to account.

    We must also call for significant contributions to the new Loss and Damage Fund and press developed countries to honour their promises on adaptation finance.

    And all countries must reach an ambitious agreement at COP29 – including on new and innovative finance.

    More broadly, your nations need fundamental action, to scale-up development and climate finance, scale-down the cost of such capital, and tackle the sovereign debt crisis.

    We welcome the SIDS Debt Sustainability Support Service.

    And the Summit of the Future has shown that it is possible to make the international financial system bigger, bolder and more representative of today’s world.

    We must keep pressing for change – including at the Fourth Financing for Development Conference.

    My congratulations on the General Assembly’s recent endorsement of the Multidimensional Vulnerability Index. 

    We must ensure that vulnerable middle-income countries can access concessional funds. 

    Your efforts mean the eligibility and access of these countries to concessional finance can no longer be ignored.

    Let’s keep up the pressure on the Multilateral Development Banks to incorporate structural vulnerability into their lending criteria.

    The United Nations is with you – speaking in harmony, and standing in solidarity.

    Let’s keep working for the change you — and our world — need.

    Thank you.  
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Several Facility Improvement Projects Completed as Fall Camping Begins in Saskatchewan Provincial Parks

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on September 23, 2024

    Saskatchewan residents looking for a fall getaway can book their camping spot online in select provincial parks throughout October and take advantage of the quiet atmosphere and scenery. As visitors head to the parks, they can also enjoy various facility improvement projects completed this year, from new campgrounds and visitor centres to improved accessibility features.

    “Fall is one of the best times to go camping, and we are pleased to offer another great season in parks across the province,” Parks, Culture and Sport Minister Laura Ross said. “Parks are quieter, the leaves are changing colours and the crisp weather at night makes for a cozy evening by a campfire. It’s the perfect atmosphere to enjoy a relaxing getaway, and with all the projects completed throughout the year, what better time to explore the parks to their full potential?”

    Fall Camping (October 1 to 31)

    Until October 31, campsites at 11 provincial parks can still be reserved online: Blackstrap, Buffalo Pound, Cypress Hills, Douglas, Echo Valley, Good Spirit Lake, Great Blue Heron (until Oct. 7), Greenwater Lake, Moose Mountain, Rowan’s Ravine and Saskatchewan Landing. Three additional parks will offer walk-in camping in October, with no reservations necessary: Danielson, Duck Mountain and Narrow Hills.

    Services in the park will be limited in October, and camping rates will be reduced by $4 per night for electric and non-electric sites. Each campsite’s available amenities, like electricity, sewer or toilets, will be indicated during reservation. 

    Winter camping will return to select provincial parks from November to March. More details to be announced in early November.

    Facility Improvements in Provincial Parks

    Multiple facility improvement projects were completed throughout Saskatchewan’s Provincial Parks this year.

    Completed projects include:

    • Meadow Lake Provincial Park: A new campground loop with 40 electrified campsites, service centre, additional flush washroom facilities and water treatment system within Waterhen Lake Campground.
    • Makwa Lake Provincial Park: A new accessible service centre at Stabler Point Campground.
    • Rowan’s Ravine Provincial Park: A new, accessible day-use pavilion with a wood-burning firepit, food preparation area, barbecue, a serving table and accessible pathways leading to the space.
    • Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park: A new play-structure at Pine Hill Campground.
    • Katepwa Point Provincial Park: A new accessible floating dock that features a gently sloping ramp, non-slip surfaces and a specialized transfer system that allows for seamless access from a wheelchair to a paddle boat, kayak or canoe.
    • Blackstrap Provincial Park: A new service centre at Kevin Misfeldt Campground.
    • Crooked Lake Provincial Park: A new Visitor Reception Centre.

    A number of other projects started construction this year:

    • A new service centre at Nut Point Campground in Lac La Ronge Provincial Park;
    • Major road improvements and resurfacing at Pike Lake Provincial Park; 
    • Water system upgrades at Narrow Hills Provincial Park and Moose Mountain Provincial Park;
    • A new trailer sewage dump at Lower Fishing Lake in Narrow Hills Provincial Park; and
    • New backcountry camping structures, including shelters, bear boxes, and waste-diverting toilets, at Moose Mountain Provincial Park.

    These investments are part of the Government of Saskatchewan’s investment of $13.3 million for capital projects and an additional $1.7 million for preventative maintenance in 2024-25.

    To learn more about fall in Saskatchewan Provincial Parks and plan your trip, visit Sask Parks fall camping page at https://www.tourismsaskatchewan.com/places-to-go/provincial-parks/guides/fall-camping.

    Learn more about Saskatchewan’s Provincial Parks at saskparks.com.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: $38 Million Bridge Project in Albany and Rensselaer Counties

    Source: US State of New York

    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the start of a $38.2 million bridge superstructure rehabilitation and resiliency project on the historic Castleton-On-Hudson Bridge over the Hudson River connecting Albany and Rensselaer counties. The project is the final step in the Thruway Authority’s restoration of the more than one-mile blue cantilever truss bridge that is traveled by more than six million vehicles per year and is a vital economic gateway for tourism and commercial traffic traveling from New England into New York State and beyond.

    “The Biden-Harris administration understand the importance of investing in infrastructure to boost and maintain economies, both locally and across the country,” Governor Hochul said. “The Castleton Bridge is among the thousands of bridges in New York crucial for transporting people and goods. I appreciate the Thruway Authority and our federal partners for their support and efforts toward modernizing our transportation system.”

    The project is being partially funded by a $21 million federal grant that was awarded to the Thruway Authority in April 2023 for their 2022 grant application to restore the Castleton-on-Hudson Bridge as part of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration Bridge Investment Program.

    Thruway Authority Executive Director Frank G. Hoare said, “With the support of our federal partners at the U.S. Department of Transportation, the Castleton Bridge will continue to serve millions of drivers for decades to come. This project will significantly prolong the superstructure’s lifespan and by utilizing the grant funding, it enables the Authority to allocate resources to other vital transformative projects throughout the state.”

    Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer said, “The Castleton-On-Hudson Bridge is a vital gateway in the Capital Region connecting Albany and Rensselaer counties and the New York State Thruway to the Berkshire Spur and the Massachusetts Turnpike, but its deteriorating infrastructure has put Upstate travelers at risk and hindered economic development. I fought to increase funding for the federal Bridge Investment Program when I crafted my Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Law with improvements like this in mind. Now, this program is delivering millions in federal support, the final push needed in this project to extend the service life of the bridge by over 50 years, boosting the Capital Region economy and giving travelers a safer, more secure commute. I’m grateful for Governor Hochul’s partnership in ensuring this bridge is ready and safe for people to use.”

    Representative Congressman Paul Tonko said, “For the past several years, I’ve been proud to push for federal funding to upgrade our Capital Region’s critical infrastructure and ensure the safe and efficient movement of people and goods across our region. That’s why today, I’m thrilled to celebrate the beginning of the final stage of the restoration of the historic Castleton-on-Hudson Bridge. This project, along with other infrastructure updates across New York State, will provide significant benefits for our local commuters, small business, and our entire regional economy. Investments in our bridges help strengthen the vital connections that keep our communities thriving and moving forward, and I’m eager to see how the completion of this project will support Capital Region residents for years to.”

    Assemblymember William Magnarelli said, “Investing in our Thruway, specifically the Castleton-on-Hudson, reinforces New York State’s commitment to protecting and enhancing our statewide infrastructure thereby strengthening economic development and our quality of life. The safety improvements and renovations will benefit both residents and those visiting the area by improving the reliability of the Thruway.”

    Opened in 1958, the Castleton-On-Hudson Bridge, more commonly referred to as the Castleton Bridge, connects the Berkshire Spur section to the Thruway’s mainline (I-87), and carries traffic over the Hudson River as well as Schodack Island State Park. The Castleton Bridge stands approximately 135 feet above the Hudson River and includes 43 segments and more than 364,000 square-feet of concrete decking.

    The first stage of the project is now underway and includes the construction of two crossover areas that will allow for a traffic shift beginning in the spring of 2025, as well as work under the bridge.

    In the spring of 2025, eastbound traffic entering the Berkshire Spur from the Thruway mainline (I-87) will be shifted to the westbound lanes of the bridge while construction crews remove and completely replace the eastbound bridge deck. During this stage, all traffic on the Castleton Bridge will remain reduced to one travel lane in each direction. The traffic shift is expected to be in place through the fall of 2025.

    The project also includes steel repairs to girders and truss members, replacement of bridge bearings and safety upgrades including bridge rail replacement, new highway signs, mile-post delineators, reflective pavement markings and milled-in audible roadway delineators (MIARDs).

    DA Collins Construction of Wilton, New York was selected as the contractor for the project after a competitive bidding process.

    The project is expected to be complete in Summer 2026.

    Over the last three years, the Thruway Authority has invested approximately $85 million into the restoration of the Castleton Bridge. In 2023, a $47.6 million project was completed on the Castleton Bridge which included the deck replacement of the westbound travel lanes, repairs to the deck on the eastbound travel lanes, replacement of the center median and bridge steel repairs. The project was the first major rehabilitation to the driving surface of the Castleton Bridge since 2009. The massive steel trusses were repainted in 2016 and maintenance was regularly performed by Thruway Maintenance crews to prolong the lifespan of the driving surface. With the completion of these two projects, the anticipated service life of the superstructure will be extended by approximately 50 years.

    Motorists are urged to be alert and follow the posted work zone speed limits. Fines are doubled for speeding in a work zone.

    To further enhance safety for workers in a work zone, Governor Hochul signed legislation establishing the Automated Work Zone Speed Enforcement pilot program. The safety enforcement program began in April 2023 and is in effect in various active construction zones on the Thruway. Work zones with speed camera enforcement will have clear signage leading up to it and motorists violating the posted speed limit within the work zone will be fined.

    Thruway Authority Federal Grants

    The Authority has applied for and secured more than $64 million of federal funding from competitive grant programs funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law since 2021.

    In April 2024, the Thruway Authority was awarded a $39 million federal grant for infrastructure enhancements at the South Grand Island Bridges in Western New York. The original Grand Island bridges were constructed in 1935 and will undergo strengthening and essential upgrades to make them more resistant against seismic loading caused by an earthquake.

    The Authority continues to pursue all eligible grant funding opportunities. A full list of grant applications and results can be found here.

    About The Thruway Authority

    The Governor Thomas E. Dewey Thruway, built in the early 1950s, is one of the oldest components of the National Interstate Highway System and one of the longest toll roads in the nation. The maintenance and operation of the Thruway system is funded primarily by tolls. The Thruway Authority does not receive any dedicated federal, state or local tax dollars and is paid for by those who drive the Thruway, including one-third of drivers from out-of-state.

    The Thruway is considered one of the safest roadways in the country with a fatality rate far below the nationwide index, and toll rates are among the lowest in the country compared to similar toll roads. The Thruway’s base passenger vehicle toll rate is less than $0.05 per mile, compared to the Ohio Turnpike ($0.06 per mile), the New Jersey Turnpike ($0.11 and $0.31 per mile) and the Pennsylvania Turnpike ($0.14 per mile).

    The Authority’s 2024 Budget invests a total of $451 million to support its Capital Program, which is expected to invest $2.4 billion into capital projects over the next five years — a $500 million increase following the enacted toll adjustment that went into effect on January 1, 2024. The increased investment will lead to work on approximately half of the Thruway’s more than 2,800 lane miles as well as projects on approximately 90 of Thruway’s 817 bridges.

    For up-to-date travel information, motorists are encouraged to download the mobile app which is available to download for free on iPhone and Android devices. The app provides motorists direct access to real-time traffic and navigation assistance while on the go. Travelers can also visit the Thruway Authority’s interactive Traveler Map which features live traffic cameras. Motorists can also sign up for TRANSalert e-mails, which provide the latest traffic conditions along the Thruway.

    For more information, follow the Thruway on Facebook, X and Instagram, or visit thruway.ny.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: 23/09/2024 Varsovia Help for flood victims and the tourism industry

    MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –

    Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.

    During Monday’s meeting of the crisis team in Warsaw, Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced that members of the Council of Ministers are working intensively on statutory changes that are to help flood victims. The government will provide information on the actions taken during the next session of the Sejm. Donald Tusk also presented an optimal solution to provide temporary shelter for the victims – some of them will live in nearby hotels and holiday resorts. The next meeting of the crisis team with the participation of the Prime Minister will take place on Tuesday evening in Wrocław. Intensive práctica of the Council of Ministers El primer minister Donald Tusk took part in another meeting of the crisis team. This time, the meeting was held in the form of a video conference at the Chancellery of the Prime Minister. The head of government announced that on Tuesday, September 24, during the meeting of the team in Wrocław, he will provide important information. “Tomorrow evening in Wrocław, we will present statutory changes. On Wednesday late afternoon, we will be giving information in the Sejm on the flood situation,” announced the Prime Minister. Individual ministers are currently working on statutory changes that will facilitate the process of rebuilding areas destroyed by the flood. Donald Tusk also confirmed that he had signed a nomination for Minister Marcin Kierwiński, who will be a member of the Council of Ministers responsible for coordinating the reconstruction effort. Temporary shelters in local hotels and holiday resorts Flood victims who cannot return to their homes will be able to stay in nearby hotels and holiday resorts. “We must rationalize our actions wherever replacement housing is needed and where there are hotels available nearby,” explained Donald Tusk. The state will pay for the stay of people who need shelter. “We will find funds so that hotels and holiday resorts that have not been damaged can serve as temporary places of residence for all those who have lost their homes,” assured the Prime Minister. The advantage of this solution is that it will also provide support for the owners of resorts and hotels who have to deal with cancellations by tourists. The costs of paying for the stay of flood victims in these places should not be higher than those resulting from the installation of so-called container apartments. Appeal to provide only verified and reliable information False information is still being spread in the public sphere, the purpose of which is to introduce chaos and disinformation. The Prime Minister reminded that the provision of data regarding the victims of the element requires particular reliability. All media reports should be based on information confirmed by the police, which states that 7 people died as a result of the flood, and one person is considered missing. “Spreading panic is a truly grave sin and it is very damaging to the aid operation, building trust in the services and generally the atmosphere, which is already difficult there, where these tragedies occurred,” emphasized Donald Tusk. The head of government also asked to refrain from speculations concerning the work of Polish Waters and the maintenance of the reservoirs, which are not supported by reliable analysis. “We will examine every minute of the operation in detail. It will be in the interest of the Polish state and all of us to investigate whether something has failed somewhere. But we have to leave it to the experts,” appealed the Prime Minister. The process of checking whether all procedures have been followed and where any negligence has been committed will be transparent. Access to drinking water As part of the aid campaign, the services also organized the transport of drinking water to flood areas. “We must be 100% sure that this water is available everywhere,” emphasized Donald Tusk. El prime minister expressed the expectation that the services will inform in the most effective way possible what water can be drunk. We appeal to residents to listen carefully to the announcements of the sanitary and epidemiological services.

    MILES AXIS

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister of Communications and Development of North Eastern Region Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia addresses a press conference in New Delhi today on the significant achievements of the first 100 days of Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region

    Source: Government of India

    Union Minister of Communications and Development of North Eastern Region Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia addresses a press conference in New Delhi today on the significant achievements of the first 100 days of Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region

    Increase of around 314% in expenditure from ₹24819 Cr in FY 2014-15 to ₹1,02,749.46 Cr in FY 2023-24 by 54 Central Ministries to NER

    Increase of Around 152% In Budget Allocation for DoNER Ministry From ₹2,332 Cr  (FY 2014-15) To ₹5,892 Cr (FY 2023-24)

    In Comparison To Period 2009-2014, A 384% Increase in Average Annual Budget Allocation  under Railways Totaling ₹9,970 Cr (FY 2023-24). 1,909 Km Increase in Railway Tracks

    In 100 days 6 Projects worth ₹419.13 Cr have been sanctioned including  for establishing  a State Cancer Institute at Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh under PM-DevINE

    Policy reforms for simplification of Scheme Guidelines and Streaming of release of funds

    Posted On: 23 SEP 2024 9:44PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Communications and Development of North Eastern Region  Shri JyotiradityaScindia addressed a press conference in New Delhi today on the important initiatives, decisions and achievements of the last ten years and first 100 days  of the third term of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.

    On this occasion,  Union Minister Shri JyotiradityaScindia launched the ‘EkPedMaaKeNaam’ mobile application along with Union MoS for Department of Telecommunications, Dr. Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar. This campaign, launched on World Environment Day, 2024, encourages citizens to plant trees to honour their mothers, promoting nationwide environmental awareness and action. By leveraging technology, this  app empowers individuals to contribute to a greener India, fostering a culture of sustainability and community engagement.

     

     

    Addressing the media persons, Union Minister highlighted   the development activities in North Eastern Region by various Ministries/Department of Government of India. He informed that more than ₹5 lakh Cr  has been allocated in NER under 10% Gross Budgetary Support by 54 Ministries. The expenditure in NER has increased from ₹24819 Cr in FY 2014-15 to ₹1,02,749.46 Cr in FY 2023-24.  There is also 152% increase in Budget allocation of MDoNER from ₹2332 Cr in 2014-25 to Rs.5892 Cr in 2023-24.

     

    He said that during the  first ten years of Modi Government, there is 384% of increase in average Annual Budget Allocation of Railways  totaling ₹9970 Cr in 2023-24.  The Annual commissioning was 66.6 KM/year during 2009-2014 which has increased by 170% to   179.78 Km/Year (2014-23). There is 1,909 Km increase in Railway Tracks.19 Railway projects worth ₹81941 Cr are in different stages of execution.

    Talking about the revolutionary work done by the government in the last 10 years, he also highlighted completion of 46,296 Km Rural Roads under Pradhan Mantri Gram SadakYojana (PMGSY) with an expenditure of ₹47,279 Cr. He made a mention of laying foundation stone and inauguration of many projects in NER  by Hon’ble PM  on 9th March, 2024 including inauguration of Sela Tunnel  for all weather connectivity to Tawang. Increase in number of airports from 9 to 17 (including operationalization of 72 routes under Udan Scheme), increase in Number of National  Waterways from 1 to 20 and an expenditure of ₹21,151 Cr on education  and establishment of 843 new Schools in NER during last ten years was also mentioned by Hon’ble Minister.

    100 Days Achievements:

    • Union Minister said that the during first 100 days of Modi 3.0, MDoNER has sanctioned 6 Projects worth ₹ 419.13 Cr under PM-DevINE, including establishment of State Cancer Institute at Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh, 3 Projects worth ₹152.6 Cr. under NESIDS (OTRI)including augmentation of Water Supply System at Namsai Township in Arunachal Pradesh and 5 Projects worth ₹ 370.16 Cr under NESIDS (Roads).

    • Union Minister has informed that guidelines of various Schemes of MDoNER have been simplified to jointly consider concept note and DPR of project proposals in one go to reduce the lead time in conceptualization and sanction of projects substantially. Financial and sectoral demarcation among the schemes of MDoNER have been rationalized and issued on 21.08.2024, to prevent duplication of sanction of projects. Funds flow process for projects sanctioned under Schemes of MDoNER/NEC  has been simplified to enable the release of funds for projects in 4 installments only.

    • MDoNER  has empanelled the Third Party Technical Inspection (TPTI) Agencies and Project Quality Monitors (PQMs) through NEDFi for inspection of ongoing projects to  strengthen the monitoring and inspection mechanism of ongoing projects sanctioned under various schemes of MDoNER.

    • Union Minister informed that  for supporting new Start-ups, Manipur Strart-up Venture Fund  with an initial corpus of Rs. 30 Crhas been initiated and two Start-ups  have received in-principle investment commitments from this fund.

    • The Ministry is organizing Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav-2024 from 6th to 8th December, 2024 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi to promote rich heritage, handicrafts, handloom, agri-produce and craft tourism of the North Eastern States.

    • North East Science and Technology (NEST) Cluster for innovation ecosystem: The Ministry of DoNER approved NEST on 13.8.2024, North east Science & Technology Cluster (NEST cluster) ecosystem exclusively for the North eastern Region similar to the S&T Cluster of the Office of the Principal Scientific Advisor. 4 Verticals have been approved viz. (i) Innovation Hub on Grassroots Technologies,  (ii) Technology Hub for Artificial Intelligence & Semiconductor (iii) CoE for Innovation in Bamboo based Technology, Entrepreneurial promotion & skill development and Skill Development and (iv) Innovation Centre on Biodegradable, eco-friendly Plastics & Solid-Waste Management. The objective of the NEST cluster is to identify and address the issues and challenges of the people of NER through the technological interventions for the holistic development of North Eastern Region.

    • Launch of North Eastern Region Agri-Commodity e-Connect (NE-RACE) Portal: It is a transformative step for the agricultural sector in North East, aligning with Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of ‘Vocal for Local’ and opening global markets to our farmers.The North Eastern Council (NEC) under the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER) in collaboration with North Eastern Development Finance Corporation Limited (NEDFi) launched on 12th July 2024  a digital initiative called North Eastern Region Agri-Commodity E-Connect (NE-RACE) to provide market linkage for agricultural and horticultural products from the North Eastern Region (NER) in both fresh and processed forms. The NE-RACE digital platform is funded by NEC and is developed and managed by the NEDFi.

    • Development of various Portals – On 22nd July, 2024, a portal was launched for robust monitoring and evaluation of the projects being implemented under various scheme of Government of India’s 54 Ministries/Departments (non-exempted under 10% GBS). The said portal has been developed. All the Ministries have been sensitized through a live demo on 6th September, 2024. This portal will help in robust monitoring and evaluation of the projects being implemented under various scheme of Government of India’s Ministries/Departments. Similarly, a portal has been developed to capture the expenditure being made under the 10% GBS of the 54 non-exempted Ministries/Departments. The expenditure details monitored will be State- wise and scheme-wise by respective Ministries/Departments. The portal will capture expenditure details State wise and scheme wise therefore ensuring effective evaluation and monitoring.

    ***

    MG/PD

    (Release ID: 2058063) Visitor Counter : 31

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Commerce and Industry Minister Shri Piyush Goyal attends series of meetings and interaction with stakeholders on first day of Australia visit

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 23 SEP 2024 7:50PM by PIB Delhi

    On the first day of his visit to Australia, Shri Piyush Goyal, Union Minister for Commerce & Industry had several productive engagements with various stakeholders in Sydney today, September 23, 2024.

    The Minister attended a business roundtable hosted by the Business Council of Australia in which prominent Australian and Indian CEOs participated. The Minister invited Australian business leaders to explore the opportunities presented by the high and sustained economic growth in India.  

    The Minister also met senior representatives from the Australian pension funds. Discussions focused on the robust policies and reform agenda of the Government of India which have boosted investor confidence. The Minister encouraged greater investments into the emerging sectors in the Indian market viz renewable energy, manufacturing, education, fintech, agritech etc.

    The Minister had a productive meeting with Ms Tania Constable, CEO of the Minerals Council of Australia regarding ways to strengthen collaboration in the critical minerals sector between India and Australia. The Minister also met Mr. Joel Katz, Managing Director of the Cruise Lines International Association to explore opportunities for enhancing coastal tourism in India. The Minister interacted with Mr. Robin Khuda, Founder & CEO of AirTrunk and discussed India’s digitalisation growth and the significant potential for collaboration in the data infrastructure sector between India and Australia.

    The Centre for Australia-India Relations hosted a lunch in honour of the Minister with members of their Director network. 

    The Minister interacted with the representatives of the Indian community at a reception hosted by the Consulate General of India at Sydney Cricket Ground. He offered prayers at the BAPS Swaminarayan temple in Parramatta and recalled his previous visit to the temple in 2022. The event was attended inter-alia by Hon Dr Andrew Charlton MP, Chair of Parliamentary Friends of India and Hon Warren Kirby, Member of NSW legislature and Co-chair of NSW Parliamentary Friends of India. 

    Before proceeding to Adelaide on 24th September 2024, the Minister’s official bilateral engagements include the reception hosted in his honour by Australia-India Business Council (AIBC) and NSW Parliamentary Friends of India in the Parliament of New South Wales. A number of political dignitaries and prominent business representatives are expected to attend the event. 

    ***

    AD/VN

    (Release ID: 2058010) Visitor Counter : 47

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Swachhata Hi Seva 2024 Campaign Kicks Off at Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Swachhata Hi Seva 2024 Campaign Kicks Off at Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways

    Secretary Shri T.K. Ramachandran Leads Over 400 Officials in Swachhata Pledge

    Massive Participation in Cleanliness Drives, Eco-Tourism Activities, and Health Camps for Safai Mitras

    Posted On: 23 SEP 2024 6:48PM by PIB Delhi

    Today, Secretary of Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Shri T.K. Ramchandran, led over 400 senior officials and staff members in taking the Swachhata Pledge and making cleanliness a way of life. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, along with its all associated organizations, has launched the Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) 2024 Campaign from 17th September to 2nd October 2024. The campaign is part of a national movement to promote cleanliness under the theme ‘Swabhav Swachhata – Sanskaar Swachhata.’

     

    As part of SHS 2024 campaign, Organizations under the Ministry are undertaking various activities covering all three pillars of the Campaign with participation of officials, students, citizens, NGOs and stakeholders. Mass plantation drive has been initiated by the Organizations carrying forward the message of “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam”. Several other activities promoting environmental protection measures and eco-tourism theme are also being undertaken. Beach cleaning, cleaning of nearby areas, cleaning of dock areas, street plays, competitions and marathons promoting the theme of Swachhata are being focussed by the Organizations as part of SHS 2024.  Health and welfare camps for Safai Mitras for preventive health care and linkages with various welfare schemes of Government are also being organized.

     

    NB/AK

    *****

    (Release ID: 2057986) Visitor Counter : 95

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: “Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways Flags Off Swachhata Hi Seva 2024 Campaign

    Source: Government of India

    “Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways Flags Off Swachhata Hi Seva 2024 Campaign

    Secretary Shri T.K. Ramachandran Leads Over 400 Officials in Swachhata Pledge

    Massive Participation in Cleanliness Drives, Eco-Tourism Activities, and Health Camps for Safai Mitras

    Posted On: 23 SEP 2024 6:48PM by PIB Delhi

    Today, Secretary of Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Shri T.K. Ramchandran, led over 400 senior officials and staff members in taking the Swachhata Pledge and making cleanliness a way of life. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, along with its all associated organizations, has launched the Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) 2024 Campaign from 17th September to 2nd October 2024. The campaign is part of a national movement to promote cleanliness under the theme ‘Swabhav Swachhata – Sanskaar Swachhata.’

     

    As part of SHS 2024 campaign, Organizations under the Ministry are undertaking various activities covering all three pillars of the Campaign with participation of officials, students, citizens, NGOs and stakeholders. Mass plantation drive has been initiated by the Organizations carrying forward the message of “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam”. Several other activities promoting environmental protection measures and eco-tourism theme are also being undertaken. Beach cleaning, cleaning of nearby areas, cleaning of dock areas, street plays, competitions and marathons promoting the theme of Swachhata are being focussed by the Organizations as part of SHS 2024.  Health and welfare camps for Safai Mitras for preventive health care and linkages with various welfare schemes of Government are also being organized.

     

    NB/AK

    *****

    (Release ID: 2057986) Visitor Counter : 18

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FACT SHEET: Partnership for Atlantic Cooperation  Ministerial

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    Today, the members of the Partnership for Atlantic Cooperation, – or the Atlantic Partnership – came together and reaffirmed their commitment to a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Atlantic region and a healthy, sustainable, and resilient Atlantic Ocean that is a resource for future generations. Since its launch, the Atlantic Partnership has grown to forty-two members, representing more than 75 percent of the Atlantic coastline. Countries from Africa, Europe, North America, South America, and the Caribbean come together to address shared challenges, promote common solutions, and advance collective principles. In addition to the 32 original founding members, Belgium, Belize, Benin, Cameroon, Guinea-Bissau, Panama, Sao Tome and Principe, Sierra Leone, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago have joined the Atlantic Partnership over the past year.
    Members have endorsed a Declaration on Atlantic Cooperation promising engagement on the basis of international law, existing national and international legal frameworks, mutual collaboration, and respect for differences in capacity and political perspective, and acknowledging the special role and primary interest of Atlantic states in the Atlantic.  At today’s ministerial, the Partnership’s members reaffirmed their commitment to work together to uphold the guiding principles for Atlantic cooperation as outlined in the Declaration. These include:
    A commitment to uphold international law, including the UN Charter, to promote an open Atlantic in which Atlantic states are free from interference, coercion, or aggressive action;
    A commitment to uphold the principles of sovereign equality, territorial integrity, and political independence of states;
    Recognition of the special interest and primary role that Atlantic states have in the Atlantic.
    The Atlantic Partnership has focused on three lines of effort: 1)Sustainable Blue Economy, 2) Science Capacity Building and Exchange, and 3) Ocean-based Food Security.
    Sustainable Blue Economy
    The blue economy is the sustainable use of Atlantic Ocean resources for economic growth. The increase in the use of the ocean space, resources, and services, and their impact on marine biodiversity and ocean ecosystems, can put the ocean’s benefits at risk. The Declaration and its accompanying Plan of Action established the objective of advancing sustainable blue economic development as an overarching Atlantic Partnership goal. The United States is contributing to the Sustainable Blue Economy line of effort with the following programs and initiatives:   
    Marine Spatial Planning Technical Assistance – The Atlantic Partnership has established a working group on Marine Spatial Planning (MSP), which is co-chaired by Spain, Morocco, and Angola. MSP is a process that helps coordinate multiple ocean-related industries to use marine resources sustainably. MSP can provide an integrated, ecosystem-based framework to allow for sustainable use of the marine and coastal environment, maintain biodiversity, and ensure alignment of government policies, community needs, and economic drivers. The United States is sponsoring MSP capacity building via directed technical assistance, local case studies, and global best practices.         
    Blue Economy/Blue Tech Solutions Public Diplomacy:  The United States is sponsoring a series of Atlantic Partnership Blue Economy/Blue Tech Solutions events.  The events will bring the private sector, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and technical government offices together with U.S. counterparts to develop and deploy solutions to environment- and ocean-related challenges with the United States as a model.      
    Partnering Across the Atlantic on the Blue Economy – The United States is sponsoring technical assistance and capacity building to strengthen Atlantic Partnership members’ efforts to grow the blue economy. The Atlantic Partnership is strengthening the blue economy via support for work on aquaculture, sustainable fisheries, coastal planning, coastal resilience, science-based decision making, technology and data management, and early career development for scientists.     
    Support for Ghost Gear Reduction in the Atlantic – Ghost gear is abandoned, lost, or discarded fishing gear that can wreak havoc on marine ecosystems. The United States is working with the Global Ghost Gear Initiative and technical experts and local partners in West Africa and Central America to identify factors contributing to ghost gear in the Atlantic Ocean and potential solutions. In April 2024, The United States and Canada convened Atlantic Partnership members to focus on the problem of abandoned, lost or discarded fishing gear (ALDFG) or “ghost gear,” a form of marine plastic debris.  Canada, Costa Rica, and Ghana shared response experiences, best practices, and challenges, creating a new network of pan-Atlantic practitioners addressing the issue.    
    Partnership for Atlantic Cooperation Marine and Blue Economy “4TheAtlantic” Incubator – To bolster cooperation among Atlantic Cooperation countries in the Gulf of Guinea to address emerging oceanic environmental issues, the United States is funding a three-day capacity building program designed to help entrepreneurs across Atlantic Partnership members to tackle emerging oceanic environmental issues such as food security, rising sea levels, deteriorating marine life, increased oceanic and surface temperatures, unregulated fishing, and marine pollution. 
    Ocean-related or “Blue” Technology – In August 2024, the Atlantic Partnership convened technology leaders to introduce new and innovative technology solutions to improve the blue economy, enhance environmental stewardship, and address challenges posed by climate change. These included technologies for ocean mapping, hydrography, GIS, ocean observation, robotics and telepresence, and vessel monitoring.
    Innovative Financing: In April 2024, the United States convened members and external partners to focus on innovative financing solutions for marine conservation. Co-hosted by Pew and the Nature Conservancy, the event highlighted opportunities and processes associated with debt-for-nature programming and the Belize and Gabon’s experiences of with innovative finance to protect their marine areas.    
    Science Capacity Building and Exchange    The Atlantic Ocean is at the heart of the Atlantic Partnership.  Under the leadership of Brazil, Portugal, and the United States, the Partnership has created a platform to advance Atlantic Ocean observation and understanding. The Platform creates a mechanism to bring in world-class science, connect with ongoing scientific endeavors, strengthen member participation, and deliver benefits to members. The United States is contributing to the Science Capacity Building and Exchange line of effort with the following programs and initiatives:   
    Building Ocean Observation and Modeling Capacity – The United States is sponsoring a targeted effort to support diverse, equitable, and inclusive all-Atlantic research collaborations with facilitated trainings and workshops that respond to Atlantic Partnership members’ needs, including building the technical capacity and increasing global access to Atlantic Ocean research data through increased access to and training on ocean observing equipment for under-resourced countries and communities, and will collaborate with All-Atlantic Ocean Research and Innovation Alliance (AAORIA) Partners. 
    Atlantic Partnership/AAORIA Ocean Observation and Modeling Workshop – The United States hosted a joint Atlantic Partnership/AAORIA workshop on ocean observation and modeling capacities in Washington, DC. Collaboration with AAORIA brings access to the broader Atlantic Ocean science community, strengthens the potential for internal interagency coordination in member governments, and further demonstrates the power of the Atlantic community.     
    Ocean-Based Food Security  
    Food security and food system resilience affect all countries, and some of the coastal Atlantic states face acute pressures. Over half the world’s population depends on ocean-derived foods as a vital food source, underscoring the immense importance of ocean-based food security. In addition to conflict and political challenges, Atlantic States face increasing pressures from changing precipitation patterns, shifting fisheries stocks, and warming oceans, all of which affect food and nutrition security in real terms. 
    The United States is contributing to the Food Security of effort with the following initiative:   
    Ocean-based Food Security Solutions Exchange: The Atlantic Partnership “solutions exchange” will focus on sustainable aquaculture as a food security solution, highlighting global food security as its signature issue for its December 2024 UN Security Council Presidency General Debate. Working with the Environmental Defense Fund, the United States will bring together government officials, private sector leaders, NGO and academic experts, philanthropies, and multilateral groups to focus on the nexus between food security and the Atlantic Ocean. This exchange will highlight the critical importance of the issue of food security, particularly the potential for the Atlantic Ocean to support sustainable responses.   
    Public Private PartnershipsThe United States is partnering with the Schmidt Ocean Institute and with additional philanthropies, academics, private sector, and NGOs to bring their significant resources and expertise to augment government efforts, with a particular focus on ocean research and observations and harness opportunities for early career scientists. 
    Partnership with Schmidt Ocean Institute:  The United States is partnering with Schmidt Ocean Institute to leverage its planned work in Atlantic Ocean scientific observation, research, and capacity building, through the 2025-2029 R/V Falkor (too) Atlantic Expeditions.
    Cabo Verde Partnership Opportunity Delegation:  The United States will bring a delegation of interested U.S.-based research, private sector, and conservation organizations to explore opportunities to collaborate with Cabo Verde at the nexus of science exchange and sustainable economic development.    
    Ongoing U.S. Atlantic ProgramsConsistent with our leadership of the Atlantic Partnership, the United States has implemented and continues to advance programs across the Atlantic on a range of shared challenges:
    The End Plastic Pollution International Collaborative (EPPIC) – The United States initiated EPPIC, a new international public-private partnership to incentivize investment and solutions to end plastic pollution, starting upstream. EPPIC engages partners beyond national level governments to take on ambitious commitments that reduce demand for plastic and maximize circularity.
    Save Our Seas Initiative – The United States addresses ocean plastic pollution in the northern coast of Dominican Republic through its global and bilateral programs. The global Clean Cities, Blue Ocean program focuses on supporting an improved solid waste management system and remediating opened dump sites in Samana Province and preventing waste, including plastic waste entering the Samana Bay. The Dominican Republic Solid Waste Reduction Program works to reduce waste in municipalities on Puerto Plata, Monte Cristi, and Dojabon provinces leading to cleaner oceans, enabling communities and economies to thrive and build resilience to climate and economic shocks.  
    Coastal Resilience, Carbon, and Conservation Finance – The United States Climate Finance for Development Accelerator launched the Coastal Resilience, Carbon, and Conservation Finance (C3F) program to encourage the flow of private capital into coastal resilience and blue carbon projects. These projects generate biodiversity conservation, climate mitigation, and adaptation outcomes while safeguarding local communities’ benefits.  The United States is partnering with the Ocean Risk and Resilience Alliance to identify and engage stakeholders in Senegal, Guatemala, Dominican Republic, Guyana, Suriname, and other countries to build capacity to develop bankable, climate-positive projects and address information asymmetries between communities and investors – leading to investments that safeguard local resources and livelihoods.
    Blue Carbon Inventory Project – Through the Blue Carbon Inventory Project, the United States will continue to provide partner countries with technical assistance on the integration of coastal wetlands in National Greenhouse Gas Inventories and maximizing the value of these ecosystems in terms of coastal resilience and blue economies. Through an integrated series of workshops, engagements and directed bilateral collaboration, the Blue Carbon Inventory Project has already collaborated to varying degrees with Costa Rica, Ghana, and Senegal and hopes to engage with other members of the Partnership for Atlantic Cooperation in the years to come.
    Atlantic Ocean Marine Microbiome Working Group – Marine microbes play pivotal roles in the environment and climate, the food value chain, biodiscovery, and a host of cross-cutting challenges, including the need to demonstrate the socio-economic value of marine microbiomes and environmental DNA (eDNA). The United States co-chairs and provides in-kind contributions to the Atlantic Ocean Marine Microbiome Working Group, which focuses on building a network of marine microbiome researchers and disseminating knowledge about the important role microbiomes play in the functioning of the ocean.
    Marine Biodiversity Observation Network (MBON) Pole to Pole of the Americas – The United States continues to provide support for MBON Pole to Pole, a knowledge sharing network dedicated to the collection, use, and sharing of marine biodiversity data in a coordinated, standardized manner, leveraging existing infrastructure and standards.
    U.S.-Caribbean Partnership to Address the Climate Crisis 2030 (PACC 2030) – The United States has provided over $100 million in new resources to increase access to climate finance, accelerate the transition to renewable energy, and build resilience to climate change and natural disasters under PACC 2030. PACC 2030 has established a network of Caribbean-based scientific experts to develop new climate mitigation and adaptation measures, identified new opportunities for clean energy infrastructure, and enhanced resilient food production systems to feed the region. 
    Caribbean Sustainable Ecosystems Activity – The United States Caribbean Sustainable Ecosystems Activity aims to reduce threats to coastal-marine biodiversity in the Caribbean while building coastal communities’ resilience to climate change. The Sustainable Ecosystems Activity harmonizes regional conservation approaches and engages the tourism sector to advocate and conserve marine protected areas
    Caribbean Biodiversity Program – Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) can help support biodiversity and climate resilience in the face of climate change. The Caribbean Biodiversity Program facilitates international and regional peer-to-peer exchange between MPAs in areas of enforcement, protected area financing, communication, outreach, public education, coral reef monitoring, and socio-economic monitoring.
    Sargassum Inundation Embassy Science Fellow – Sargassum inundation events occur when rafts of this algae are carried to shore by winds and currents. These events are a type of harmful algal bloom that can adversely impact coastal ecosystems, tourism, and public health. The United States embedded an environmental engineer at the University of the West Indies to focus on collaborative research to better detect and address Sargassum influxes in the Caribbean and to support developing a plan for identification and response strategies for Sargassum inundation events in the Eastern Caribbean. 
    National Marine Litter Action Plans – The United States assisted several Atlantic Partnership members (Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, and Guatemala) in the development of their National Marine Litter Action Plans which establish a roadmap for relevant authorities in each country to better manage marine litter issues.
    Ocean Conservation Skill Sharing – The United States is working to build relationships among regional institutions to share approaches and learning to improve conservation of mangroves, shellfish, seagrass, and coral reefs.
    Support for fisheries management efforts of the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) – The United States provides extensive support for ICCAT, which oversees the conservation and management of Atlantic tunas, swordfish, marlin and sharks, and adopts measures to minimize bycatch of sea turtles, seabirds, and other protected species associated with these fisheries. This responsibility is shared among ICCAT’s 53 members, including a number of members of the Atlantic Partnership. 
    Support for the Atlantic Centre Course on “Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated Fishing in the Atlantic” – The United States partners with the Atlantic Centre, a “Multilateral Centre of Excellence,” to promote defense capacity-building for the Atlantic, including the recent course on “Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated Fishing in the Atlantic,” held in the Azores. 
    Joint Presentation of the Five-Day Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated Fishing Seminar – The United States has deployed an exportable, internationally-focused seminar to assist partner nations (including Cote d’Ivoire, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone) to develop and strengthen their fisheries enforcement regimes to help prevent illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing products from entering the global seafood market. 
    Maritime Advisor to Côte d’Ivoire – The United States supports a Maritime Advisor to Côte d’Ivoire, who assists in countering illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing; and improving maritime governance, port security, and port state control in West Africa. A mobile training team completed a two-week Boarding Officer Course for 18 Ivorians from their Navy, Gendarmerie, Customs and Fisheries organizations.  
    Ghana Fisheries Recovery Activity – The United States funds the Feed the Future Ghana Fisheries Recovery Activity (GFRA) – a five-year, $17.8 million project that is mitigating the near collapse of Ghana’s small pelagic fisheries and establishing a foundation for their ecological recovery. The GFRA reduces overfishing and improves small pelagic fisheries management, which encourages ecological sustainability and marine biodiversity conservation and improves the socioeconomic well-being, food security, and resilience of fishers and coastal communities in Ghana. 
    Women Shellfishers and Food Security Activity – The United States works in field sites in The Gambia and Ghana to demonstrate effective shellfishing and natural resource management approaches to women-led, community-based shellfishing operations.
    Protecting Natural Ecosystems in Sierra Leone – The United States provided $10 million in political risk insurance to support West Africa Blue’s equity investment in a mangrove blue carbon project in the Bonthe and Moyamba regions of Sierra Leone. The project builds on a longstanding relationship with local communities and aims to develop long-term conservation, restoration, and income diversification activities funded sustainably through the issuance of high-quality, certified carbon credits. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: FACT SHEET: Partnership for Atlantic Cooperation  Ministerial

    Source: The White House

    Today, the members of the Partnership for Atlantic Cooperation, – or the Atlantic Partnership – came together and reaffirmed their commitment to a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Atlantic region and a healthy, sustainable, and resilient Atlantic Ocean that is a resource for future generations.
     
    Since its launch, the Atlantic Partnership has grown to forty-two members, representing more than 75 percent of the Atlantic coastline. Countries from Africa, Europe, North America, South America, and the Caribbean come together to address shared challenges, promote common solutions, and advance collective principles. In addition to the 32 original founding members, Belgium, Belize, Benin, Cameroon, Guinea-Bissau, Panama, Sao Tome and Principe, Sierra Leone, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago have joined the Atlantic Partnership over the past year.

    Members have endorsed a Declaration on Atlantic Cooperation promising engagement on the basis of international law, existing national and international legal frameworks, mutual collaboration, and respect for differences in capacity and political perspective, and acknowledging the special role and primary interest of Atlantic states in the Atlantic. 
     
    At today’s ministerial, the Partnership’s members reaffirmed their commitment to work together to uphold the guiding principles for Atlantic cooperation as outlined in the Declaration. These include:

    • A commitment to uphold international law, including the UN Charter, to promote an open Atlantic in which Atlantic states are free from interference, coercion, or aggressive action;
    • A commitment to uphold the principles of sovereign equality, territorial integrity, and political independence of states;
    • Recognition of the special interest and primary role that Atlantic states have in the Atlantic.

    The Atlantic Partnership has focused on three lines of effort: 1)Sustainable Blue Economy, 2) Science Capacity Building and Exchange, and 3) Ocean-based Food Security.

    Sustainable Blue Economy

    The blue economy is the sustainable use of Atlantic Ocean resources for economic growth. The increase in the use of the ocean space, resources, and services, and their impact on marine biodiversity and ocean ecosystems, can put the ocean’s benefits at risk. The Declaration and its accompanying Plan of Action established the objective of advancing sustainable blue economic development as an overarching Atlantic Partnership goal. The United States is contributing to the Sustainable Blue Economy line of effort with the following programs and initiatives:   

    • Marine Spatial Planning Technical Assistance – The Atlantic Partnership has established a working group on Marine Spatial Planning (MSP), which is co-chaired by Spain, Morocco, and Angola. MSP is a process that helps coordinate multiple ocean-related industries to use marine resources sustainably. MSP can provide an integrated, ecosystem-based framework to allow for sustainable use of the marine and coastal environment, maintain biodiversity, and ensure alignment of government policies, community needs, and economic drivers. The United States is sponsoring MSP capacity building via directed technical assistance, local case studies, and global best practices.         
    • Blue Economy/Blue Tech Solutions Public Diplomacy:  The United States is sponsoring a series of Atlantic Partnership Blue Economy/Blue Tech Solutions events.  The events will bring the private sector, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and technical government offices together with U.S. counterparts to develop and deploy solutions to environment- and ocean-related challenges with the United States as a model.      
    • Partnering Across the Atlantic on the Blue Economy – The United States is sponsoring technical assistance and capacity building to strengthen Atlantic Partnership members’ efforts to grow the blue economy. The Atlantic Partnership is strengthening the blue economy via support for work on aquaculture, sustainable fisheries, coastal planning, coastal resilience, science-based decision making, technology and data management, and early career development for scientists.     
    • Support for Ghost Gear Reduction in the Atlantic – Ghost gear is abandoned, lost, or discarded fishing gear that can wreak havoc on marine ecosystems. The United States is working with the Global Ghost Gear Initiative and technical experts and local partners in West Africa and Central America to identify factors contributing to ghost gear in the Atlantic Ocean and potential solutions. In April 2024, The United States and Canada convened Atlantic Partnership members to focus on the problem of abandoned, lost or discarded fishing gear (ALDFG) or “ghost gear,” a form of marine plastic debris.  Canada, Costa Rica, and Ghana shared response experiences, best practices, and challenges, creating a new network of pan-Atlantic practitioners addressing the issue.    
    • Partnership for Atlantic Cooperation Marine and Blue Economy “4TheAtlantic” Incubator – To bolster cooperation among Atlantic Cooperation countries in the Gulf of Guinea to address emerging oceanic environmental issues, the United States is funding a three-day capacity building program designed to help entrepreneurs across Atlantic Partnership members to tackle emerging oceanic environmental issues such as food security, rising sea levels, deteriorating marine life, increased oceanic and surface temperatures, unregulated fishing, and marine pollution. 
    • Ocean-related or “Blue” Technology – In August 2024, the Atlantic Partnership convened technology leaders to introduce new and innovative technology solutions to improve the blue economy, enhance environmental stewardship, and address challenges posed by climate change. These included technologies for ocean mapping, hydrography, GIS, ocean observation, robotics and telepresence, and vessel monitoring.
    • Innovative Financing: In April 2024, the United States convened members and external partners to focus on innovative financing solutions for marine conservation. Co-hosted by Pew and the Nature Conservancy, the event highlighted opportunities and processes associated with debt-for-nature programming and the Belize and Gabon’s experiences of with innovative finance to protect their marine areas.    

    Science Capacity Building and Exchange  
      
    The Atlantic Ocean is at the heart of the Atlantic Partnership.  Under the leadership of Brazil, Portugal, and the United States, the Partnership has created a platform to advance Atlantic Ocean observation and understanding. The Platform creates a mechanism to bring in world-class science, connect with ongoing scientific endeavors, strengthen member participation, and deliver benefits to members. The United States is contributing to the Science Capacity Building and Exchange line of effort with the following programs and initiatives:   

    • Building Ocean Observation and Modeling Capacity – The United States is sponsoring a targeted effort to support diverse, equitable, and inclusive all-Atlantic research collaborations with facilitated trainings and workshops that respond to Atlantic Partnership members’ needs, including building the technical capacity and increasing global access to Atlantic Ocean research data through increased access to and training on ocean observing equipment for under-resourced countries and communities, and will collaborate with All-Atlantic Ocean Research and Innovation Alliance (AAORIA) Partners. 
    • Atlantic Partnership/AAORIA Ocean Observation and Modeling Workshop – The United States hosted a joint Atlantic Partnership/AAORIA workshop on ocean observation and modeling capacities in Washington, DC. Collaboration with AAORIA brings access to the broader Atlantic Ocean science community, strengthens the potential for internal interagency coordination in member governments, and further demonstrates the power of the Atlantic community.     

    Ocean-Based Food Security  

    Food security and food system resilience affect all countries, and some of the coastal Atlantic states face acute pressures. Over half the world’s population depends on ocean-derived foods as a vital food source, underscoring the immense importance of ocean-based food security. In addition to conflict and political challenges, Atlantic States face increasing pressures from changing precipitation patterns, shifting fisheries stocks, and warming oceans, all of which affect food and nutrition security in real terms. 

    The United States is contributing to the Food Security of effort with the following initiative:   

    • Ocean-based Food Security Solutions Exchange: The Atlantic Partnership “solutions exchange” will focus on sustainable aquaculture as a food security solution, highlighting global food security as its signature issue for its December 2024 UN Security Council Presidency General Debate. Working with the Environmental Defense Fund, the United States will bring together government officials, private sector leaders, NGO and academic experts, philanthropies, and multilateral groups to focus on the nexus between food security and the Atlantic Ocean. This exchange will highlight the critical importance of the issue of food security, particularly the potential for the Atlantic Ocean to support sustainable responses.   

    Public Private Partnerships
    The United States is partnering with the Schmidt Ocean Institute and with additional philanthropies, academics, private sector, and NGOs to bring their significant resources and expertise to augment government efforts, with a particular focus on ocean research and observations and harness opportunities for early career scientists. 

    • Partnership with Schmidt Ocean Institute:  The United States is partnering with Schmidt Ocean Institute to leverage its planned work in Atlantic Ocean scientific observation, research, and capacity building, through the 2025-2029 R/V Falkor (too) Atlantic Expeditions.
    • Cabo Verde Partnership Opportunity Delegation:  The United States will bring a delegation of interested U.S.-based research, private sector, and conservation organizations to explore opportunities to collaborate with Cabo Verde at the nexus of science exchange and sustainable economic development.    

    Ongoing U.S. Atlantic Programs
    Consistent with our leadership of the Atlantic Partnership, the United States has implemented and continues to advance programs across the Atlantic on a range of shared challenges:

    • The End Plastic Pollution International Collaborative (EPPIC) – The United States initiated EPPIC, a new international public-private partnership to incentivize investment and solutions to end plastic pollution, starting upstream. EPPIC engages partners beyond national level governments to take on ambitious commitments that reduce demand for plastic and maximize circularity.
    • Save Our Seas Initiative – The United States addresses ocean plastic pollution in the northern coast of Dominican Republic through its global and bilateral programs. The global Clean Cities, Blue Ocean program focuses on supporting an improved solid waste management system and remediating opened dump sites in Samana Province and preventing waste, including plastic waste entering the Samana Bay. The Dominican Republic Solid Waste Reduction Program works to reduce waste in municipalities on Puerto Plata, Monte Cristi, and Dojabon provinces leading to cleaner oceans, enabling communities and economies to thrive and build resilience to climate and economic shocks.  
    • Coastal Resilience, Carbon, and Conservation Finance – The United States Climate Finance for Development Accelerator launched the Coastal Resilience, Carbon, and Conservation Finance (C3F) program to encourage the flow of private capital into coastal resilience and blue carbon projects. These projects generate biodiversity conservation, climate mitigation, and adaptation outcomes while safeguarding local communities’ benefits.  The United States is partnering with the Ocean Risk and Resilience Alliance to identify and engage stakeholders in Senegal, Guatemala, Dominican Republic, Guyana, Suriname, and other countries to build capacity to develop bankable, climate-positive projects and address information asymmetries between communities and investors – leading to investments that safeguard local resources and livelihoods.
    • Blue Carbon Inventory Project – Through the Blue Carbon Inventory Project, the United States will continue to provide partner countries with technical assistance on the integration of coastal wetlands in National Greenhouse Gas Inventories and maximizing the value of these ecosystems in terms of coastal resilience and blue economies. Through an integrated series of workshops, engagements and directed bilateral collaboration, the Blue Carbon Inventory Project has already collaborated to varying degrees with Costa Rica, Ghana, and Senegal and hopes to engage with other members of the Partnership for Atlantic Cooperation in the years to come.
    • Atlantic Ocean Marine Microbiome Working Group – Marine microbes play pivotal roles in the environment and climate, the food value chain, biodiscovery, and a host of cross-cutting challenges, including the need to demonstrate the socio-economic value of marine microbiomes and environmental DNA (eDNA). The United States co-chairs and provides in-kind contributions to the Atlantic Ocean Marine Microbiome Working Group, which focuses on building a network of marine microbiome researchers and disseminating knowledge about the important role microbiomes play in the functioning of the ocean.
    • Marine Biodiversity Observation Network (MBON) Pole to Pole of the Americas – The United States continues to provide support for MBON Pole to Pole, a knowledge sharing network dedicated to the collection, use, and sharing of marine biodiversity data in a coordinated, standardized manner, leveraging existing infrastructure and standards.
    • U.S.-Caribbean Partnership to Address the Climate Crisis 2030 (PACC 2030) – The United States has provided over $100 million in new resources to increase access to climate finance, accelerate the transition to renewable energy, and build resilience to climate change and natural disasters under PACC 2030. PACC 2030 has established a network of Caribbean-based scientific experts to develop new climate mitigation and adaptation measures, identified new opportunities for clean energy infrastructure, and enhanced resilient food production systems to feed the region. 
    • Caribbean Sustainable Ecosystems Activity – The United States Caribbean Sustainable Ecosystems Activity aims to reduce threats to coastal-marine biodiversity in the Caribbean while building coastal communities’ resilience to climate change. The Sustainable Ecosystems Activity harmonizes regional conservation approaches and engages the tourism sector to advocate and conserve marine protected areas
    • Caribbean Biodiversity Program – Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) can help support biodiversity and climate resilience in the face of climate change. The Caribbean Biodiversity Program facilitates international and regional peer-to-peer exchange between MPAs in areas of enforcement, protected area financing, communication, outreach, public education, coral reef monitoring, and socio-economic monitoring.
    • Sargassum Inundation Embassy Science Fellow – Sargassum inundation events occur when rafts of this algae are carried to shore by winds and currents. These events are a type of harmful algal bloom that can adversely impact coastal ecosystems, tourism, and public health. The United States embedded an environmental engineer at the University of the West Indies to focus on collaborative research to better detect and address Sargassum influxes in the Caribbean and to support developing a plan for identification and response strategies for Sargassum inundation events in the Eastern Caribbean. 
    • National Marine Litter Action Plans – The United States assisted several Atlantic Partnership members (Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, and Guatemala) in the development of their National Marine Litter Action Plans which establish a roadmap for relevant authorities in each country to better manage marine litter issues.
    • Ocean Conservation Skill Sharing – The United States is working to build relationships among regional institutions to share approaches and learning to improve conservation of mangroves, shellfish, seagrass, and coral reefs.
    • Support for fisheries management efforts of the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) – The United States provides extensive support for ICCAT, which oversees the conservation and management of Atlantic tunas, swordfish, marlin and sharks, and adopts measures to minimize bycatch of sea turtles, seabirds, and other protected species associated with these fisheries. This responsibility is shared among ICCAT’s 53 members, including a number of members of the Atlantic Partnership. 
    • Support for the Atlantic Centre Course on “Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated Fishing in the Atlantic” – The United States partners with the Atlantic Centre, a “Multilateral Centre of Excellence,” to promote defense capacity-building for the Atlantic, including the recent course on “Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated Fishing in the Atlantic,” held in the Azores. 
    • Joint Presentation of the Five-Day Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated Fishing Seminar – The United States has deployed an exportable, internationally-focused seminar to assist partner nations (including Cote d’Ivoire, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone) to develop and strengthen their fisheries enforcement regimes to help prevent illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing products from entering the global seafood market. 
    • Maritime Advisor to Côte d’Ivoire – The United States supports a Maritime Advisor to Côte d’Ivoire, who assists in countering illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing; and improving maritime governance, port security, and port state control in West Africa. A mobile training team completed a two-week Boarding Officer Course for 18 Ivorians from their Navy, Gendarmerie, Customs and Fisheries organizations.  
    • Ghana Fisheries Recovery Activity – The United States funds the Feed the Future Ghana Fisheries Recovery Activity (GFRA) – a five-year, $17.8 million project that is mitigating the near collapse of Ghana’s small pelagic fisheries and establishing a foundation for their ecological recovery. The GFRA reduces overfishing and improves small pelagic fisheries management, which encourages ecological sustainability and marine biodiversity conservation and improves the socioeconomic well-being, food security, and resilience of fishers and coastal communities in Ghana. 
    • Women Shellfishers and Food Security Activity – The United States works in field sites in The Gambia and Ghana to demonstrate effective shellfishing and natural resource management approaches to women-led, community-based shellfishing operations.
    • Protecting Natural Ecosystems in Sierra Leone – The United States provided $10 million in political risk insurance to support West Africa Blue’s equity investment in a mangrove blue carbon project in the Bonthe and Moyamba regions of Sierra Leone. The project builds on a longstanding relationship with local communities and aims to develop long-term conservation, restoration, and income diversification activities funded sustainably through the issuance of high-quality, certified carbon credits. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Indian Council of Agricultural Research -Department of Agricultural Research and Education actively participates in the Swachhta Hi Seva Campaign 2024

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 23 SEP 2024 6:30PM by PIB Delhi

    Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)-Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE) is actively participating in the Swachhta Hi Seva-2024 driven by Government of India. In a remarkable display of community spirit and commitment to cleanliness, various activities were successfully conducted under the Swachhta Hi Seva Campaign 2024 from September 21 to September 23, 2024 at various ICAR institutes situated in different parts of the country.

    The campaign featured Human Chain activity under the event theme “Swachhata Ki Bhaagidari (स्वच्छता की भागीदारी)”, where participants joined hands to raise awareness about sanitation and hygiene. This symbolic event highlighted the collective commitment of the community to uphold cleanliness in their surroundings. Alongside this, initiatives focused on “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” were organized in line with the Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment), promoting sustainable practices and encouraging participants to adopt eco-friendly habits.

    A human chain and rally to raise awareness about cleanliness and sanitation were organized by ICAR staff, local residents, and school children

     

    The following day, Mega Cleanliness Drives were conducted under the event theme “Sampoorna Swachhata (सम्पूर्ण स्वच्छता) through Shramdaan including Swachhata Lakshit Ekayi (स्वच्छता लक्षित इकाई)” with the active participation of citizens and various partner organizations. These drives aimed to address cleanliness challenges across local bodies, encouraging community involvement in cleaning efforts across multiple sectors. This collaborative approach not only galvanized citizen participation but also strengthened partnerships among diverse stakeholders committed to enhancing community cleanliness.

    Further, the campaign continued with efforts to clean tourist spots and religious places, ensuring that these vital locations are maintained in a pristine condition. Coordination with government departments, tourism bodies, and educational institutions was instrumental in achieving comprehensive participation, demonstrating a united front for cleanliness and sustainability.

    *****

    SS

    (Release ID: 2057973) Visitor Counter : 31

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mayor visits New York to promote London as leading destination for business, tourism and sport

    Source: Mayor of London

    The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, is heading to New York this week for a series of meetings and events with global leaders to bang the drum for London as a place to invest, hold sporting events and promote the capital as an unrivalled destination for tourists.

    Sadiq’s visit takes place during the United Nations (UN) General Assembly, where business leaders, politicians and major organisations converge on New York to discuss global issues including delivering economic prosperity and tackling climate change.

    During his visit Sadiq will promote London as an exceptional place to work and invest in, including meetings with Accordion, CLA Global, Salesforce and Thoropass. He will also use meetings to promote London as an unparalleled destination for sporting events and tourism.

     

    The Mayor will speak at a number of high-profile events, including the Concordia Annual Summit, a global affairs forum that works to address the world’s most pressing needs, the Climate Pledge Summit and the NYC Climate Week Hub.

    London faces stiff competition but is still the leading location globally for US businesses looking to expand overseas. Last year saw New York invest $1.7 billion into London climate start-ups and climate focused companies, with the capital the top city for foreign direct investment from the United States over the last 10 years, when compared to all other cities globally.

    Around 3.5 million visits were made between the US and London in 2023, surpassing pre-Pandemic levels by 12 per cent. This week’s visit to the US follows the Mayor’s announcement last week that he plans to transform oxford street into a traffic-free pedestrianised avenue, encouraging even more tourists to come to central London, restoring the street as the leading retails destination in the world.

    While in New York the Mayor will also meet with senior sporting officials as he fulfils his pledge to explore bringing more sports from North America and around the world to our city. London, under Sadiq’s mayoralty has great pedigree in hosting the biggest international sporting events from around the globe – and Sadiq is determined to cement our city’s reputation as the undisputed sports capital of the world. 

     

    This capital has had a fantastic summer of music and sport, with Taylor Swift performing The Eras Tour at Wembley Stadium more times than any other city in the world and London hosting Major League Baseball, Diamond League Athletics, the Champions League Final and world title heavyweight boxing. In the coming months there are more major events with the 68th BFI London Film Festival, three NFL games and the League of Legends grand final at the O2 Arena, while next summer the capital will host the final of the Women’s Rugby World Cup.

    Sadiq will also remind global leaders that now is the time to take firm action to tackle climate change. He will speak at New York Climate Week and at the Climate Pledge Summit emphasising how cities are at the forefront of climate action, with over half of the world’s population living in them and consuming 75per cent of global energy. The Mayor will highlight London’s bold initiatives and plans for the future including his commitment to make London rivers swimmable in ten years.

     

    Sadiq is in New York in his capacity as Mayor of London and also Chair of C40 Cities – a global network of nearly 100 mayors of the world’s leading cities that are united in action to confront the climate crisis, and will call on leaders to follow London’s example, turning our current global challenges into opportunities for transformative climate action.

    Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “I am looking forward to visiting New York to bang the drum for London as the perfect location for global businesses to expand, invest and to hold sporting events.

    “With so many key business leaders and politicians in New York this week, this really is the perfect time to promote London on the global stage – whether as an exciting tourist destination or the host of the world’s best sporting events.  

    “It is also an important week for global leaders to restate their commitment to tackle climate change, to learn from other cities and nations and showcase how London remains at the forefront of global action.”

    While in New York, Sadiq will also speak at the UN’s SDG Lounge event – hosted by the UN Office for Partnerships – on the need to accelerate climate action and give the keynote address at a Clinton Global Initiative opening the session on “Leveraging Technology and Nature for Equitable Urban Resilience”.

    C40 Executive Director, Mark Watts, said: “This UN General Assembly and New York Climate Week come at a pivotal time, amidst an upcoming election in the USA and following the general election here in the UK. The world will be watching to see how global leaders are addressing—or, in many cases, delaying action on the climate crisis. That is why Mayor Khan’s role this week, representing both London and C40 Cities, is so crucial. His unwavering dedication to creating healthier and greener cities sets a powerful example for city and national leaders around the globe. His presence here highlights the leading role of mayors in building a sustainable and inclusive future for all.” 

     

    Janet Coyle, Managing Director of Business Growth, London & Partners, said: “The business ties between London & North America have always been prevalent. From the future of drug discovery with Recursion to a leading cloud provider in CoreWeave, it has already been an impactful year for US expansion to London. New York and London in particular have always enhanced one another’s ecosystem to strengthen not only each other but the collective transatlantic community.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Office of the Governor – News Release – Governor Green Travels to California

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    Office of the Governor – News Release – Governor Green Travels to California

    Posted on Sep 20, 2024 in Latest Department News, Newsroom, Office of the Governor Press Releases

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.

    GOVERNOR
    KE KIAʻĀINA

    GOVERNOR GREEN TRAVELS TO CALIFORNIA

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    September 20, 2024

    HONOLULU  ̶  Governor Josh Green, M.D., will travel to California today, Friday, September 20, to promote travel to Hawai‘i alongside leaders of our local tourism industry.

    Governor Green is scheduled to return to Honolulu on Monday, September 23. Lieutenant Governor Sylvia Luke will serve as acting Governor from the night of September 20 to the evening of September 23.

    # # #

    Media Contacts:   
    Erika Engle
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Governor, State of Hawai‘i
    Phone: 808-586-0120
    Email: [email protected]

    Makana McClellan
    Director of Communications
    Office of the Governor, State of Hawaiʻi
    Cell: 808-265-0083
    Email: [email protected]

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: 22.09.2024 Breslavia We provide safe places for children from flood-affected areas

    MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –

    Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.

    On Sunday morning, another meeting of the crisis team was held in Wrocław. The Minister of National Education, Barbara Nowacka, presented the program “Green schools”, which is aimed at children from flood-affected areas. These are free trips to a safe place with psychological support and education provided. During the team, the Prime Minister appealed to Polish women and men not to cancel the trips they had planned to the south of Poland. “Green schools” The flood that passed through the south of Poland also affected children who now need psychological care and a safe shelter. “Everywhere we are, we see a problem with children, especially where schools and kindergartens are flooded. There are large numbers of them. Parents want to dry, clean up, and hence the idea of ​​the “Green school”” – said the Prime Minister during the team. “Green schools” are free trips for children from flood-affected areas. Safe transport, educational activities, food and psychological care are provided. It is also support for parents who now need to focus on removing the effects of the flood. “The first organized group is leaving today. Here, a big thank you to the city of Sopot, which you can always count on – 60 children are leaving from Kłodzko right now and will be there for two weeks” – Minister of National Education Barbara Nowacka said. She also addressed thanks to ministries, local governments, schools and entrepreneurs who support the organization of trips. “Special thanks to the Ministry of Infrastructure for the quick support from PKP. All children who will go to “Green Schools” will be provided with free travel” – thanked the head of the Ministry of Education. The Ministry of Sport provides places in central sports centers. A couple of facilities with very good infrastructure, where additional sports activities are provided for children. “2.5 thousand children will spend their stay in six central sports centers. Para access to sports activities and sports infrastructure – swimming pools, sports halls, climbing walls” – listed Deputy Minister of Sport and Tourism Piotr Borys. On the website zieloneszkoly.men.gov.pl you can report centers that are able to accept children from flood areas. The Ministry of National Education will ensure the safety of children and safe transport. Schools to schools There are 3,044 facilities in the area covered by the state of natural disaster, where about 412 thousand children and youth study. “As of Friday, the state of closure of educational institutions was 431 facilities. Some of them were closed because they were evacuation assistance points. […] We estimate that over 200 of these facilities require renovations – from minor renovations to complete renovations. […] We are ready to support them in rebuilding as quickly as possible,” the Minister of National Education reported. A school-to-school system has been launched, which allows educational institutions that suffered from flooding to report their needs. “You can list the needs that a given school needs. This is not just about the needs for urgent cleaning, but in the long run – what will be needed. Schools can support other schools,” Barbara Nowacka noted. The Minister of National Education assured that all children from all primary schools will be provided with the school textbooks they need. Tourism in southern Poland Only some places in southern Poland were flooded. The tourism and catering industry in this region now needs support from tourists. The Ministry of Sport and Tourism is preparing a social campaign so that tourists do not cancel their reservations. “We warmly invite you to take advantage of places that are tourist attractions, but which were not destroyed in the flood. Para bromear very important for the entire south of our country” – emphasized Piotr Borys. “Many tourist places are functioning normally, even those that were partially flooded. People who bought a holiday in these places will get an honest answer whether the place they wanted to go to is in a normal condition or whether there is damage there that makes this holiday impossible” – Lt. Donald Tusk. During the flood, many sports infrastructure facilities were also damaged. The Deputy Minister of Sport and Tourism assured that funds for their reconstruction have been secured. State actions The Government Agency for Strategic Reserves has submitted a request for 10 thousand dehumidifiers under the EU Population Protection Mechanism. “We are receiving more and more signals that there is a shortage of dehumidifiers. We are waiting for their delivery from European countries that have declared assistance under the population protection mechanisms” – informed the head of government. The Prime Minister announced that a staff meeting will be held in Warsaw, during which the necessary changes to regulations and laws will be prepared. On Tuesday, the Council of Ministers will deal with them.

    MILES AXIS

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Unlock your future: Plymouth’s biggest careers fair is here!

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Some of the city’s biggest and best-known employers are returning to take part in this year’s Launchpad Live, a two-day future careers event offering a unique glimpse into the city’s fastest-growing industries.

    Hosted at the Plymouth Life Centre, Launchpad Live will run on Thursday 26 and Friday 27 September 2024 and aims to inspire and raise aspirations of local young people and improve awareness of career choices and future progression pathways.

    Who are the employers attending?

    The event will feature a powerhouse of over 50 employers and organisations such as:

    • Babcock
    • University Hospital Plymouth NHS Trust
    • Plymouth City Council
    • Princess Yachts
    • Plymouth Community Homes
    • Kier BAM
    • Willmott Dixon
    • Vistry Group
    • Rowe IT
    • Theatre Royal Plymouth
    • Vospers
    • PFK Francis Clarke
    • Greenlight Safety and Training
    • Duchy College
    • HM Armed Forces
    • National Marine Park
    • City College Plymouth
    • Skills Group
    • Discovery College
    • Plymouth Manufacturers Group
    • Skills Launchpad Plymouth’s Youth Hub and the city’s sector skills partnerships –
    • Building Plymouth (promoting construction and the built environment)
    • Caring Plymouth (promoting health and social care)
    • Welcoming Plymouth (promoting hospitality, tourism and retail).

    These organisations are not just looking for employees, they’re looking for the future leaders of their industries.

    A hands-on experience

    With all Plymouth schools bringing along groups of students, more than 2,200 pupils will experience interactive zones, complete with the latest immersive technologies. Those attending will explore, learn, and engage directly with industry experts across Plymouth’s core sectors, including:

    • Marine, Engineering and Manufacturing
    • Health and Social Care
    • Construction and the Built Environment
    • Technology, Business, Legal and Creative Services
    • Armed Forces and Government Services
    • Tourism, Hospitality, Entertainment and Retail
    • Green and Sustainable Careers

    Launchpad Live is where opportunity meets innovation, offering unparalleled exposure to both traditional and emerging career paths. Whether you’re a student curious about your future or a business leader looking to inspire the next generation, this event is for you.

    The event is being organised by Plymouth City Council in partnership with YMCA Plymouth, Discovery College and City College Plymouth.

    Councillor Sally Cresswell, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Apprenticeships said: “This fantastic event will give thousands of young people the chance to meet employers, to learn about the exciting career opportunities available and better understand the investment and growth sectors that present future ambitious employment in Plymouth. It’s really important that we help employers and training providers, including further and higher education institutions, to showcase these opportunities directly with our young people, helping them to make better informed choices for their post-16 next steps.”

    Jonathan Keable, Chair of the Plymouth Employment and Skills Board and Leader of FSB Plymouth, said:
    “I’m incredibly proud to see over 50 of our city’s leading employers come together to not only showcase incredible opportunities but to actively inspire the next generation. This event is a testament to the commitment of our businesses and organisations in investing in Plymouth’s future workforce. Together, we are giving our young people the confidence and tools to dream bigger, reach higher, and shape their own destinies. A huge thank you to the organisers for delivering this transformative event. The line-up is outstanding, and I encourage anyone looking to take the next step to join us to explore your options and take action, because this is your chance to make it happen.”

    Tom Lavis, CEO of YMCA Plymouth said:

    “As a Plymouth charity that has supported young people’s aspirations in the city for 175 years, YMCA is delighted to bring this exciting careers event to life in partnership with Plymouth City Council. We believe it’s vital to showcase what fantastic opportunities are out there to young people and their parents. We’re very proud of how we have been able to make this event truly accessible for young people and the wide scope of employers and trainers, which has now made this an annual landmark event for the city.”

    Open to the Public!

    Launchpad Live will be open to the public on Thursday, 26 September, from 4pm to 6pm. Don’t miss this chance to meet employers, explore career options, and discover pathways that could change your life. All other times on both days are reserved for school bookings only.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Chikunga hopeful of Women’s Forum recognition 

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, says she is confident that the BRICS Women’s Forum will be recognised at this year’s Kazan Summit Declaration, scheduled to take place next month.

    Chikunga made the remark as Russia prepares to host the BRICS Summit to be held in Kazan, from 22 to 24 October, after the country assumes the BRICS chairmanship in 2024.

    This as the Minister led the discussions at the BRICS Women Affairs meeting held in Saint Petersburg, Russia.

    READ | Chikunga arrives in Russia for BRICS Women Affairs Meeting

    The meeting saw BRICS Member States discussing cooperation prospects in the fields of women’s leadership and enhancing the role of women in finance, agriculture, innovation, healthcare, creative industries, tourism, environmental safety, and the inclusive economy.

    Speaking at the BRICS Women’s Forum, which included the BRICS Ministerial Women’s Affairs Meeting on Friday, Chikunga congratulated the Russian Federation on assuming the Chairship of BRICS 2024, and the sterling work that it has undertaken to date.

    “As you are aware, this forum of Ministers was first initiated in 2023 during South Africa’s Chairship of BRICS. It is indeed encouraging to witness its growth under the stewardship of the Russian Federation’s 2024 Chairship, and it will undoubtedly flourish under the future Chairship of fellow BRICS member states.

    “We applaud Russia’s choice of the theme ‘Women, Governance, and Leadership’ as a timely intervention that ensures this forum continues to amplify the voices, interests, and full representation of women across BRICS member states, promoting their meaningful participation at all levels of governance and decision-making.”

    Chikunga also reflected on some of the key points that emerged during hybrid BRICS Ministers for Women Affairs held in December 2023, where the forum was recognised as a fundamental platform to elevate equality, women’s rights, economic autonomy, and empowerment; and to address major concerns related to women across the BRICS countries.

    The forum also promotes mainstreaming of women’s issues across BRICS’ processes, priority areas, declarations and agreements; and provides a platform for the exchange of knowledge and best practices in advancing the current and future wellbeing of women and girls across BRICS.

    “Our meeting recognised the tremendous progress that successive BRICS summits have produced in the areas of global governance, development, peace and security, energy, climate change, and social issues. We noted, however, that discussions in these areas would be further enriched by a ministerial meeting dedicated to women affairs.

    “There was consensus on the potential of this forum to accelerate the implementation of existing commitments, principles, goals, and actions outlined in various international instruments on women. These include the Beijing Platform for Action (1995), the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW – 1979), UN Resolution 1325 (2000) on Women, Peace, and Security, as well as the UN [United Nations] Agenda 2030 and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” Chikunga explained.

    The meeting further agreed to support the acceleration of the implementation of the African Union Agenda 2063, with a particular focus on Aspiration 6, which promotes women’s empowerment.

    Asserting women’s interests

    The Ministers also highlighted the need to assert women’s interests across the broader BRICS agenda, strengthen multilateralism, and synergise with the work of the BRICS Business Women’s Alliance to accelerate the mainstreaming of socio-economic priorities for greater inclusivity and equity.

    “We acknowledge that this goal will be further enriched when we leverage our collective strength as the Global South, alongside robust people-to-people exchanges and cooperation within BRICS nations and across the African continent.

    “A key highlight of the Johannesburg II Declaration was the recognition of the vital role of women and youth in trade and their potential to act as catalysts for industrialisation, infrastructure development, food security, agricultural modernization, sustainable growth, healthcare, and addressing climate change,” she said.

    The Johannesburg II Declaration is a document that encapsulates significant BRICS viewpoints on matters of global economic, financial and political significance.

    READ | BRICS adopts Johannesburg II Declaration

    – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

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

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

    China adds over 30,000 rural place names to protection lists under geographic naming project

    BEIJING, Sept. 23 — More than 30,000 old rural place names have been added to China’s protection lists since a rural geographic naming project was launched last year, a senior official of the Ministry of Civil Affairs (MCA) said Monday.

    Tang Chengpei, vice minister of civil affairs, said at a press conference that the project, which collects rural place names and inputs them into maps, aimed to improve geographic naming and cultural protection in rural areas.

    As of August this year, the government had standardized the naming of 430,000 locations, installed 330,000 place name signs, and placed 14.42 million building and door plaques in rural areas under the project, Tang said.

    He added that as the project was promoted, more nameless rural places and places with multiple names had obtained their own standardized names.

    The government has also provided guides for online map services to present correct and consistent rural place names, which has facilitated backpacking and road trips in rural areas as well as the delivery of both parcels into villages and rural goods to urban areas, Tang said.

    Benefiting from the naming project, many places have created a range of geographic brands of agricultural products, and rural place naming has been integrated with the development of rural e-commerce and agricultural tourism, he added.

    The MCA announced the launch of the rural place naming project as a measure to advance rural revitalization in May 2023.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Inside the collapse of Disney’s America, the US history-themed park that almost was

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Jared Bahir Browsh, Assistant Teaching Professor of Critical Sports Studies, University of Colorado Boulder

    Disney has long promoted a sanitized and nostalgic view of American history. Bettmann/Getty Images

    As a top producer of children’s entertainment, Disney is no stranger to America’s culture wars.

    Liberals have long criticized the company for its products’ promotion of gender stereotypes and racist tropes. Meanwhile, conservatives have excoriated the company for being “too woke,” whether it was casting actresses of color in live action remakes of the “The Little Mermaid” and “Snow White” or coming out against a Florida statute that curtails discussion of gender and sexuality in public schools.

    As Disney CEO Bob Iger grapples with the unenviable task of navigating criticism from all sides, I can’t help but recall how executives decided to table an effort to “Disneyfy” American history 30 years ago.

    My research and teaching investigates how media companies such as Disney construct historical narratives for popular consumption. I can only imagine how today’s culture wars would have expressed themselves at Disney’s proposed theme park, which would have featured everything from Civil War forts to Native American villages.

    Disney eyes the outskirts of DC

    From his early days as an animator, Walt Disney presented a sanitized and nostalgic view of America.

    Mickey Mouse represented the “everyman,” while the company’s animators drew a largely optimistic portrait of America, first in the studio’s animated films and later in their theme parks. Anyone who has walked down Disneyland’s Main Street, U.S.A., witnessed Magic Kingdom’s Hall of Presidents or visited Epcot’s American Adventure can see how Disney strives to present an uncomplicated, uncritical view of the nation and its leaders.

    In 1984, Michael Eisner became the company’s CEO. He was credited with revitalizing Disney’s brand through producing hit animated features such as “Beauty and the Beast” and “The Little Mermaid,” and spearheading theme parks such as Disney–MGM Studios – now known as Hollywood Studios – and Disneyland Paris.

    Former Disney CEO Michael Eisner, seated on the left, appears with former President Ronald Reagan at a Disney World parade in 1990.
    Mike Guastella/WireImage via Getty Images

    A visit to Colonial Williamsburg inspired Eisner’s next venture: a theme park based on U.S. history that would be built outside of Washington, D.C.

    Beginning in 1993, the company quietly started purchasing real estate in northern Virginia using shell companies. The land acquisitions became public knowledge only a few days before the announcement of the theme park, aptly named Disney’s America.

    The news was largely welcomed by politicians. Eisner had already gained the support of the state’s outgoing and incoming governors, along with the Virginia Commission on Population Growth and Development. The plan was to build the park in Haymarket, Virginia, a small, wealthy area southwest of Washington, D.C., a few miles from Manassas, the site of two major Civil War battles.

    History isn’t so simple

    Although Disney had diligently worked to consolidate support ahead of the announcement, signs of conflict emerged during the first press conference, which featured Bob Weis, a Disney vice president who had helped oversee the planning of several theme parks.

    “This is not a Pollyanna view of America,” he told the group of assembled reporters. “We want to make you a Civil War soldier. We want to make you feel what it was like to be a slave or what it was like to escape through the underground railroad.”

    Questions over how Disney would tell the complex – often discriminatory – history of the nation spurred a group of historians, led by David McCullough, to lodge their concerns: How would Disney construct its narrative of the United States? And how would the park affect Manassas, one of the most important Civil War battle sites?

    The proposed theme park was to be located just a few miles from Manassas National Battlefield Park.
    Andrew Caballero-Reynolds/AFP via Getty Images

    According to the original plans and brochures, Disney’s America would contain nine sections: a Colonial-era Presidents Square, an Indigenous village, Ellis Island, a factory town from the Industrial Revolution, a Civil War fort, a county fair, an early 19th-century port, a World War II-era battlefield and a Depression-era family farm.

    On the surface, these themed areas seemed fitting. You could easily see them as exhibits at the Smithsonian. But issues emerged when people took into account that this was still a Disney theme park, with entertaining guests and making money likely taking precedence over historical accuracy and contemporary sensitivities and sensibilities.

    The story of immigration, for example, would have been told through the musical-comedy stylings of Kermit the Frog and the other Muppets.

    There were also concerns over how Disney would handle the exploitative and violent history of the treatment of a number of groups.

    This included the enslavement of Africans and the genocide of Indigenous populations, the latter of which was also connected to the forthcoming 1995 release of “Pocahontas.” Historians later highlighted the film’s distorted history, and it isn’t far-fetched to imagine rides or attractions based on those misrepresentations at Disney’s America.

    Mickey Mouse goes to Washington

    Even as plans came together for Disney, criticism began to mount.

    Disney issued an ultimatum to the Virginia legislature to improve infrastructure surrounding the site, threatening to abandon the project if the US$150 million for infrastructure improvements were not passed on the last day of the Virginia General Assembly’s legislative session in March 1994.

    In June, the U.S. House of Representatives introduced a resolution opposing the park, and the U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources held a hearing regarding the proposed project’s environmental impact.

    The proposed logo for Disney’s America.
    Wikimedia Commons

    The now-infamous hearing featured discussions regarding sewage, traffic and lodging, and even saw U.S. Sen. Ben Nighthorse Campbell of Colorado, who at the time was a registered Democrat, place a Mickey Mouse hat on the lectern in a show of support.

    As criticism mounted, Disney decided to shift its approach. In the summer of 1994, it renamed the project Disney’s American Celebration.

    Rather than highlight periods or events in American history, the new concept would focus more on themes: Democracy, Work, Family, Generations, Streets of America and the Land.

    Many of the attractions featured in these lands would have resembled attractions already in Disney parks. For example, Generations would have been similar to the Magic Kingdom’s Carousel of Progress, while the Land was already a pavilion at Epcot.

    This would have also opened more opportunities for sponsorship. The Work section of the park would have included virtual factory tours of popular brands such as Apple or Crayola, while Streets of America would have featured cuisine from around the country, similar to Downtown Disney, which opened in 1997 in Disney World and in 2001 at Disneyland.

    It all falls apart

    Disney abruptly announced on Sept. 28, 1994, that it would abandon these plans.

    Although the criticism from historians was a factor, there were also concerns about the park’s profitability in colder months. The company faced mounting debt from its Paris theme park and uncertain leadership after the death of senior executive Frank Wells in a helicopter crash in April 1994. Eisner, meanwhile, had undergone bypass surgery in July 1994.

    Many of the attractions that were planned for the Virginia site found their way into Disney parks, particularly in Disney’s California Adventure in Anaheim.

    Disney, both under Walt’s leadership and after his death, has long leveraged patriotism for the sake of its media content and park experiences. From Mickey Mouse to the Hall of Presidents, Disney’s nostalgic, linear and uncomplicated view of American progress has been foundational to the Disney experience.

    However, an entire park dedicated to this approach – just down the road from a real battlefield integral to the bloodiest war in U.S. history – was too much for historians and other critics to ignore.

    Disney’s failure to profit from an uncritical celebration of America may have been a blessing in disguise, as it avoided constructing yet another battlefield in the culture wars.

    Jared Bahir Browsh does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Inside the collapse of Disney’s America, the US history-themed park that almost was – https://theconversation.com/inside-the-collapse-of-disneys-america-the-us-history-themed-park-that-almost-was-236931

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Vermont Delegation Introduces Bill to Redraw Boundaries of the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historic Park in Woodstock

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Vermont Congressional Delegation, Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Representative Becca Balint (VT-At-Large) introduced the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park Establishment Act Amendments Act, legislation that extends the boundary of the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historic Park to include the neighboring King Farm, which is currently owned by the Vermont Land Trust.  
    “The Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park is a treasure for Vermont and our nation,” said Senator Sanders. “Vermont’s forests and working farms have always been vital to our economy and critical to our character as a state. I’m pleased this bill will continue Vermont’s conservation legacy by expanding this park and helping to conserve land for agriculture, forestry, and educational purposes for future generations.” 
    “The Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park is a unique example of how decades of conservation and stewardship have shaped our landscape and Vermont Values. As Vermont’s first and only national park, this park plays an important role in conserving and educating folks about out state’s rich agricultural heritage,” said Senator Welch. “By expanding the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller NHP to include the King Farm, our bill will create new enrichment opportunities and ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy and appreciate this historical treasure.” 
    “In Vermont, we care deeply about the preservation, stewardship, and the future of our parks and lands,” said Rep. Balint. “I’m proud to take action to strengthen this partnership and ensure that King Farm has the resources it needs for trail maintenance, conservation, and land management. I’m grateful to work with Senator Welch and Sanders and our shared commitment to our state’s outdoor recreation.” 
    Located in Woodstock, the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller NHP preserves a significant historical, agricultural, and natural landscape. The Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller NHP became Vermont’s first and only national park when it opened its doors to the public in 1998. The Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller NHP commemorates the historical contributions of its namesakes—George Perkins Marsh, Frederick Billings, and Mary French Rockefeller—preserves Vermont’s proud agricultural heritage, and conserves native forestland ecosystems. It also provides countless educational opportunities for visitors, protects archaeological sites, and showcases historic architecture. 
    The Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park Establishment Act Amendments Act would expand resources for the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller NHP’s Stewardship Institute to support educational programing, research, community engagement, and conservation efforts. Additionally, the bill would authorize the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller NHP to acquire the King Farm from willing property owners in the future, without requiring its sale. 
    The Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park Establishment Act Amendments Act is endorsed by the Vermont Land Trust and has the support of the Town of Woodstock: 
    “The Town of Woodstock is happy with this legislation as we have an outstanding and cooperative relationship with the National Park Service and our residents enjoy all the activities and services they currently offer,” said Eric Duffy, Municipal Manager, Town of Woodstock. “The Park is a massive tourist draw and a vital part of our community.” 
    “We welcome the opportunity to partner more closely with NPS in enhancing access to land and programming at King Farm. The timing aligns perfectly with our efforts to raise funds and invest in King Farm, alongside community partners,” said Tracy Zschau, President and CEO, Vermont Land Trust. 
    Learn more about the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park Establishment Act Amendments Act. 
    Read the full text of the bill. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: President calls on all stakeholders to help preserve SA’s heritage

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on business and other stakeholders to work with government to protect and conserve historical, cultural and natural heritage sites, particularly in marginalised communities.

    President Ramaphosa made the call in his weekly newsletter to the nation on Monday, ahead of the Heritage Day celebrations.

    South Africa will on Tuesday observe Heritage Day, where citizens will celebrate the rich cultural tapestry that makes up the nation. 

    President Ramaphosa noted that while heritage preservation is a responsibility of government, the private sector, corporate sponsors, philanthropists, heritage organisations and other stakeholders also have an important role to play in ensuring these legacies are safeguarded for future generations. 

    “Private sector support for heritage preservation is uneven. While some high-profile heritage sites like Robben Island, the Mandela House in Soweto, Constitution Hill, and others receive donor funding, other less prominent institutions, events, and initiatives struggle to obtain support. 

    “As a result, many important sites of memory have fallen into disrepair. This is a wasted opportunity, because a number of these sites could stimulate local economies and provide work opportunities to the communities in which they are situated,” President Ramaphosa said.

    The President said protecting and conserving historical, cultural, and natural heritage sites was also vitally important for nation-building and national reconciliation. 

    “On this Heritage Day, I call on business and other stakeholders to work with government in the cause of heritage preservation, particularly in marginalised communities. There is already laudable work being done in this regard. 

    “By working together as government, business, and society, we can use our national heritage to uplift communities, create opportunities and make us all proud to be South African,” the President said.

    Highlighting the significance of Heritage Day, President Ramaphosa noted that having emerged from a painful apartheid past where indigenous customs, traditions and languages were denigrated and marginalised, Heritage Day is one of the most important events on the national calendar. 

    “It is a valuable opportunity for cross-cultural exchange and for building bridges of tolerance and understanding between races and different ethnic groups. I have always found it heartwarming to see how South Africans from all walks of life celebrate Heritage Day in their communities, schools, workplaces, places of worship and institutions of higher learning. 

    “It has become a regular facet of Heritage Day to see South Africans share their traditions, cuisine, dress, music, and other forms of cultural expression with their compatriots. Beyond the benefits for cultural self-expression, pride and nation-building, heritage preservation is an important driver of economic growth, job creation and sustainable development,” President Ramaphosa said. 

    South Africa is perfectly placed to use its rich cultural and natural heritage to promote economic growth. 

    “As one of the world’s most mega biodiverse countries, South Africa’s natural heritage attracts tourists from around the world, supporting local job creation and investment in natural resource infrastructure. By way of example, in December 2023 alone, there were more than 400 000 visitors to sites like the Table Mountain National Park and Robben Island,” the President highlighted. 

    Coupled with this, he said, South Africa has an abundance of historical sites across the country that span the pre-colonial, colonial, apartheid, and democratic eras. 

    “These sites are not just important for tourism. They are also sites of memory and monuments to the past that serve to educate the younger generation of South Africans,” President Ramaphosa said. 

    To preserve the country’s rich heritage, the President underscored a need to do more to attract young South Africans to careers and opportunities in the sector. 

    He said through the Presidential Employment Stimulus, the National Heritage Council and National Arts Council has provided unemployed young people with work opportunities in film and digital media production, cultural project management, storytelling, language preservation and as museum guides.

    Government will commemorate Heritage Day at Meqheleng Stadium in Ficksburg, in the Free State, under the theme: “Celebrating the lives of our heroes and heroines who laid down their lives for our freedom”.

    This year’s theme puts a spotlight on South Africa’s liberation movements who received various forms of solidarity and support from neighbouring countries during the liberation struggle. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Liverpool maps out masterplan to remix “Music City” status

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram has announced radical plans to “remix the music sector” by embracing AI and VR to future-proof music tourism, recording and education.

    Liverpool City Council has mapped out an ambitious programme of four ground-breaking, interlinked projects which would revolutionise the industry and have a multi-million-pound economic impact for decades to come.

    The proposals are expected to be funded by private sector sources with Government support, with media giant Universal expressing their commitment to the concept.

    The four projects are:

    • The Music Futures Lab – this bespoke facility will bring together music businesses and musicians from across the creative and digital sectors to reimagine the way we all create, consume and experience music in the future. This new R&D lab would be the first of its kind in the UK, taking advantage of the opportunities AI and VR brings, and would build on – and future-proof – the incredible creative and digital sector which the city already boasts.
    • MusicFutures Cluster – a mix of academic and private sector bodies creating the talent and training pipeline to make the most of the facilities which the music lab will offer. A Creative Cluster has already been established to kickstart this R&D in bringing together the music and creative industries.
    • Immersive Liverpool – this fully immersive audio and visual visitor attraction will reimagine the way that audiences experience the music they love. A world first, this attraction will offer a rotating set of experience ‘residencies’ with the biggest music artists. Liverpool City Council is undergoing a site selection process and is in partnership with industry leaders to help develop the scheme.
    • Recording and Rehearsal space – this space would become a new rehearsal home for the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and a leading national facility for emerging and established artists. This would be the only UK studio of its kind and capacity outside London – “the Abbey Road of the North” – and as well as boosting the city’s ability to offer recording facilities for musicians, TV, film and gaming, it would also provide first-class training, performance and rehearsal spaces all year-round for young people across the region.

    Mayor Rotheram revealed the ambitious plans at a Creative UK event as part of the Labour Party conference in the city.

    The draft business cases, funded by monies received from the DCMS, are to be presented to Government in the coming weeks with detailed plans expected to be announced in 2025 – 10 years after Liverpool was appointed a UNESCO City of Music.

    Councillor Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council, said: “Music is the heartbeat of Liverpool and for generations it has defined the city’s global appeal. The time has come to translate that heritage into an offer that shapes our future.

    “We have ambitious plans to remix what it means to be a music city. These projects will help define and shape the next generation of talent and businesses and will increase the impact music can have on our communities and individuals from all walks of life.

    “Our ‘Music 2030’ vision harnesses ambitious thinking and focused investment to turn music into a driver of social, economic and environmental advancement, with the sector becoming the backbone for new high-paying jobs, re-energising the music tourism sector and becoming a vanguard sector for positive environmental change.

    “We have entered into a development relationship with Mercury Studios and Universal Music Group to help create the future of immersive music entertainment right here in Liverpool. The expertise and innovation of Mercury Studios will empower our own homegrown talent. This city is known for our incredible music heritage. Together, we will lean on that heritage to become the birthplace for a new form of music entertainment and create a digital future.

    “I’m delighted with the progress made to date and super excited for what is to come. I look forward to further conversations with our partners and the Government on how we can develop and deliver these projects.”

    Liverpool City Region Mayor, Steve Rotheram, said: “The Liverpool City Region has always had music running through its veins—it’s part of who we are.

    “We’re launching bold, groundbreaking projects that will remix the way music is made and experienced—right here in the heart of the UK.

    “With cutting-edge technology like AI and VR, we’re creating opportunities for the next generation, making sure that Liverpool isn’t just a city with a rich musical history, but a global leader in the music of the future.

    “This isn’t just business—it’s about giving young people the chance to thrive and putting our region back on the world stage.

    “We’re setting the standard for what a music city should be in the 21st century.”

    Culture Liverpool Director Claire McColgan said: “Liverpool is reimagining the role music plays in the regeneration of a city. By bringing musicians and the creative and digital industries closer together and building the facilities to make the most of our enviable talent pool, we believe this approach can be a driving force in positioning Liverpool as a music city remixed.

    “These projects are at a really exciting stage, and we are now starting to get a sense of their scope and potential impact which could redefine what music means to Liverpool and to the rest of the country. We’re looking at a 10 year-plan to supercharge not just our visitor economy but the way that young people get access to the best music education in the world.

    “It will give talented creative graduates a further reason to set up their business here. It’s taking music seriously as a catalyst for regeneration, both in terms of buildings and people.”

    Michael Eakin, Chief Executive of Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, said: “This centre, as part of Liverpool’s overall investment in – and development of – the music sector will be transformative for the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic and for young talent in the city. It will be a major regeneration driver in its location. It will provide economic growth for the city as part of the growing film, television and creative industries sector.

    “It will help secure the long-term sustainability of one of the country’s most important and forward-looking orchestras and music organisations. And it will make Liverpool uniquely strong in delivering true creative education opportunities in music for children and young people across our communities.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese culture on display at tourism fair in Bangladesh

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    The 11th Asian Tourism Fair was held in Dhaka from Thursday to Saturday to boost the tourism industry. More than 100 tourism companies and institutions from eight countries including China, Bangladesh and Maldives participated in the exhibition.

    China set up “Hello! China” Pavilion to show its rich and colorful tourism resources and profound cultural heritage.

    The pavilion was designed in the Beijing architectural style, featuring brackets and eaves. Screens and photos in the pavilion displayed tourism books, materials, and handicrafts such as paper cutting, kites, Chinese knots and lanterns.

    In the interactive area, visitors were encouraged to find the Chinese cities they are interested in visiting on a map. China’s policies to facilitate tourism and payment were also introduced.

    Organized by the Chinese Embassy in Bangladesh jointly with the Confucius Institutes and Classrooms and Chinese enterprises in the country, performances featuring both Chinese and Bengali songs and dances were shown at the exhibition on Friday.

    “I am so curious and I want to have a solo trip, so I come here,” Bangladeshi visitor Simi Hossain told Xinhua on the occasion. “Now I know what kind of tourist spots are in China.”

    “Chinese culture spreads all over the world now. I haven’t got the chance to travel there but I like it very much,” the visitor said. “I think when we go there on a trip, we will learn more about the culture there.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: EOI open for North West tourism attraction

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    Efforts to breathe new life into a north-west Tasmanian tourism attraction will go international from this weekend.

    Expressions of Interest (EOI) open on Saturday 21 September for a new operator, or group, to take on and transform the Dismal Swamp site, west of Smithton, into a visitor hub.

    Leading the EOI process is international company TSA Riley, which is looking to engage with potential operators from across Australia and even across the globe.

    The site has sat dormant since 2020 but has since secured $12.5 million from the Australian Government through a 2022 federal election commitment to help revitalise the site.

    The project is expected to attract an overall investment of $40 to $50 million when commercial investors and a developer are locked in, providing a significant economic boost to the region.

    The EOI document is available at: https://www.stategrowth.tas.gov.au/tarkine-adventure-hub-eoi

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

    “The hub at Dismal Swamp will create an exciting new visitor experience to complement the area’s amazing natural environment. It’s terrific to see this project now progress to the EOI stage.

    “This is a great example of the Australian Government’s investment in the tourism future of the far north-west coast of Tasmania.”

    Quotes attributable to Tasmanian Premier and Minister for Tourism and Hospitality Jeremy Rockliff:

    “We are building on Tasmania’s reputation as a world-leading tourism destination and highlighting Tasmania’s unique experiences.

    “This redevelopment will transform the Dismal Swamp site into a world-class visitor hub for cultural and nature-based experiences within the broader far North West region.

    “We expect the operation to feature a range of accommodation options and immersive nature-based experiences, which could attract an additional $9 million in annual visitor spend to the state.”

    Quotes attributable to Senator for Tasmania Anne Urquhart:

    “The new visitor hub will attract thousands more tourists every year to the wonderful far north-west coast region of Tasmania.

    “This project will generate income and support good jobs in our state’s far north-west, as a result of the determined work of local tourism operators and my advocacy for this much-needed investment.”

    Quotes attributable to CEO of West by North West Gabriella Conti:

    “The Dismal Swamp redevelopment is an exciting opportunity for the far North West.

    “This development will encourage visitors to experience the Tarkine in a sustainable way, stay longer, explore deeper, and fully engage with all the far North West has to offer.

    “It provides a key anchor point for visitors, particularly those arriving on the Spirits, to base themselves as they explore the region.

    “Visitors will be able to immerse themselves not only in agritourism experiences and world-class produce; but nature-based experiences in the Tarkine, Australia largest temperate rainforest.”
     

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Confucius festival to accentuate mutual learning among civilizations

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    A Confucius cultural festival to be held in east China’s Shandong Province is expected to further facilitate the exchanges and mutual learning among global civilizations by drawing on the wisdom of Chinese ancient philosopher Confucius.
    The 2024 China International Confucius Cultural Festival, with the theme of “conversation with Confucius, mutual learning among civilizations,” will open in Qufu, the birthplace of Confucius, a press conference announced Friday.
    Scheduled to run from Sept. 27 to Oct. 7, the festival will blend culture with tourism, featuring various art performances, exhibitions and folk culture activities across Shandong.
    Xu Rong, an official of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism (MCT), said the festival is expected to be joined by more than 370 guests from outside the Chinese mainland, including representatives of international organizations, foreign establishments of Confucian studies, and foreign diplomats.
    The ministry will actively support Shandong in building the festival into an important platform for communication and mutual learning among global civilizations, thus raising the international influence of Chinese culture, Xu said.
    This year’s festival is jointly launched by the provincial government of Shandong, the MCT and the Chinese National Commission for UNESCO.
    Nishan Mountain, located in Qufu, is widely recognized as the place where the philosopher was born. In 2010, Shandong initiated the Nishan Forum on World Civilizations. This year’s forum was held in July.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s smart tourism applications offer unique experiences to foreign travelers

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

    TIANJIN, Sept. 22 — Wearing an elegant white dress, Umuhoza, a Rwandan businesswoman, took a photo in front of a smart photo device, which soon generated a photo depicting her as a valiant and chivalrous female with traditional Chinese features.

    “When people travel to China, they really want to take memories back home. The device can take a picture of you and then transform you into a Chinese kind of person. I really love it,” Umuhoza said.

    Umuhoza runs a travel website. She helps tourists from Asian countries travel to African countries, including Rwanda, Egypt and Tanzania. At the same time, her website has a “China package,” catering to travelers from Africa who want to go to China.

    At the 2024 China Culture & Tourism Industries Exposition held earlier this month in north China’s Tianjin Municipality, many foreign visitors were overwhelmed by the novel technologies adopted in China’s tourism sector.

    “That’s amazing. I am very interested in autonomous driving cars and many smart tourism scenes. Perhaps new trade cooperation can be carried out in the future,” Umuhoza said.

    TELLING PEOPLE MORE ABOUT CHINA

    Putting on a virtual reality headset, Elena Jitari-Parry, a full-time travel blogger from Moldova, was instantly drawn to various places to experience the magnificent landscapes of China’s mountains and rivers.

    “So beautiful. It felt so authentic here,” Jitari-Parry said.

    She also quickly learned about securing travel tips for exploring Tianjin via an intelligent tourism companion system, which simply requires a person to ask questions at a booth provided by Midu, a company focusing on artificial intelligence and large language models.

    “Traveling in China can be so easy for foreigners! The digitalization and intelligence services of Chinese tourist attractions have become a new trend, enabling foreigners like me to enjoy a more comfortable and convenient travel experience in China,” Jitari-Parry said.

    With the desire to further explore China, Jitari-Parry chose to be a full-time travel blogger, documenting her travels and experiences in China. “Foreigners are very interested in China’s technological development. I always advise my audience to come to China and see something different.”

    The deep integration of technology and the cultural tourism sector not only creates a variety of experiential consumption scenarios, but also meets people’s new needs for personalized travel, immersive experiences and creative consumption.

    Data showed that by the end of 2023, the scale of China’s digital cultural tourism market had exceeded 1 trillion yuan (about 140 billion U.S. dollars), accounting for more than 30 percent of the entire cultural tourism industry.

    EXPERIENCING SMART, CONVENIENT SERVICES

    In the exhibition area of Meituan, one of China’s leading online services platforms, high-end technologies such as drones and autonomous delivery vehicles became the focus of foreign bloggers’ lenses.

    Ruben Diaz Jr. from the United States was amazed by it. “Some of these things are brand new to me. Tourists can specify drones to deliver the items they need directly to the scenic areas, which is definitely more convenient.”

    A staff member at the Meituan booth said that currently Meituan drones are operating on more than 30 routes in cities such as Beijing, Shenzhen, Shanghai and Guangzhou, and have completed over 300,000 orders in total.

    Thanks to the rapid development of smart tourism in China, tourists have become accustomed to using online payments, ticket purchases and guided tours during their travels.

    Data from iResearch, an industry research and consulting institute, showed that in 2023, the total number of monthly uses and total usage time of online travel apps had grown by more than 30 percent year on year on average.

    Some Chinese online travel service companies also use digital technologies to meet the growing travel needs of foreign visitors in China.

    In May, Tongcheng Travel launched an international travel reservation platform named HopeGoo, which supports payments in 16 global currencies and via various operating languages.

    Richard Santana, a product designer and blogger from the United States, said that with these online services, foreigners will be more willing to go to China, while their travels in China will also be more convenient.

    Ma Yiliang, chief statistician of the China Tourism Academy, said that “digitalization plus cultural tourism” has become a development trend.

    As “China Travel” has surged to be a hot global social media topic, demand for inbound tourism to China has increased significantly.

    “With the smarter and more convenient experience in China, foreign tourists can find a more open, more confident and safer China during their travels,” said Ma.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: International Coastal Clean-up Day: Maharashtra Governor, Chief Minister of Maharashtra and Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, participate in the Beach Clean-Up Campaign in Mumbai

    Source: Government of India

    International Coastal Clean-up Day: Maharashtra Governor, Chief Minister of Maharashtra and Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, participate in the Beach Clean-Up Campaign in Mumbai

    Environment Minister Sh. Bhupender Yadav Announces Guidelines to Support Startups in Waste recycling

    Maharashtra celebrates International Coastal Cleanup Day with a Mega Beach Cleaning Campaign at Juhu, Mumbai

    Posted On: 21 SEP 2024 1:20PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai, 21 September 2024

     

    “Ministry of Environment and Climate Change will provide one-time financial support for youth-led recycling startups aimed at creating a cleaner and greener planet,” Union Minister for Environment and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav announced Guidelines for One-Time Financial Support for Establishing Recycling Plants while taking part in Beach Clean-up Drive at Juhu, Mumbai today. On the occasion of International Coastal Cleanup Day- 21st September 2024, Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) in partnership with Ministry of Earth Sciences and the Government of Maharashtra, organised a Mega Beach Cleaning Drive at Juhu Beach.

    The Minister also mentioned that we human beings often forget the importance of cleanliness despite our understanding of resource utilization. “While nature generously provides us with pure resources, our return to the earth often consists of waste,” remarked. 

    He also spoke about the necessity of several steps to be taken to save environment; Water conservation,Promoting technologies that reduce solid waste, Creative Waste Disposal  Encouraging innovative methods for waste management, Healthy Lifestyle Promotion, Ban on Single-Use Plastics and Food Waste Reduction. 

       

    The Minister also encouraged the citizens to join “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam,” initiative as inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. “By planting a tree, we express our gratitude to Mother Earth, recognizing the dual role of our mothers in nurturing life,” he added.

    He also spoke that the Government and the Ministry is committed to taking actionable steps, pledging to clean Mumbai’s beaches.

    Addressing the participants, Governor of Maharashtra, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan said that one day of action is simply not enough. This initiative should be carried out throughout the year and repeated annually, as small beginnings can lead to significant transformations. “By engaging young people in these efforts, we are working towards a “Clean Mumbai, Green Mumbai” and ultimately a “Clean Bharat, Green Bharat.” he said. 

       

    Maharashtra Chief Minister Shri Eknath Shinde emphasized the importance of cleanliness as a service, highlighting the state’s 720 km-long coastline and its potential to boost tourism. He expressed satisfaction in citizens’ participation in the cleanliness drive launched on September 17 at Girgaum Chowpatty, which will continue until October 2. 

    This coast cleanliness drive is conducted alongside more than 100 other beaches across coastal states and Union Territories. This year, the theme for the cleanliness campaign is “Swabhav Swachhata – Sanskaar Swachhata,” emphasizing the importance of natural cleanliness and cultural responsibility towards maintaining clean beaches and marine ecosystems.

    During the Drive, participants took a pledge on “I Am Saving My Beach” and committed to cleanliness. This communal effort aligns with the broader national campaign initiated by the Prime Minister, who has called for cleanliness to be a national priority. Participants also formed human chains and actively participated in direct beach cleaning efforts.

       

    Principal Secretary of the Department of Environment and Climate Change, Shri Pravin Darade, delivered the welcome address. 
    Shri Tanmay Kumar, Special Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change and Shri Bhushan Gagrani, Municipal Commissioner, Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai, Govt. of Maharashtra also spoke during the event.

     

    Background

    Since its inception, the beach cleaning drive has gained momentum, with notable milestones. The MoEFCC launched the #IAM SAVING MY BEACH campaign on World Environment Day in 2018, which has evolved into a regular series of clean-up activities across the nation. In 2022, the campaign under the banner of “Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar” saw participation from over 15,000 volunteers, collecting more than 1,500 tons of waste from 75 beaches.

    Last year, during the G20 Presidency, a Janbhagidari movement further enhanced community engagement, witnessing participation from 14 G20 countries and various invitee nations. The collective effort resulted in the cleanup of over 55 beaches globally, demonstrating the power of international cooperation in environmental conservation.

    The International Coastal Cleanup Day serves not just as a cleanup drive but as a vital educational platform. It raises awareness about the impact of marine litter and the importance of preserving our oceans.  This year’s campaign features activities such as signature campaigns, tree planting, and awareness displays aimed at inspiring a lifestyle that minimizes plastic use and promotes sustainable practices. A centralized database will track achievements, ensuring transparency and encouraging continued community involvement.

     

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    PIB Mumbai | DL/ DR

     

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