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Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI Security: EMBARGOED UNTIL 00:01AM MONDAY 7 OCTOBER: Met improves interview process for victims of crime with new technology

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    EMBARGOED UNTIL 00:01AM MONDAY 7 OCTOBER

    Met improves interview process for victims of crime with new technology

    The Metropolitan Police Service is rolling out its new ‘Digital Interview Recording (DIR) kits’, in its commitment to put victims at the heart of investigations, as part of its New Met for London plan. The equipment eliminates the need to use DVDs and CDs and enables recordings to be made in police stations as well as in locations more convenient to victims of crime.

    It’s a significant advance in the Met’s drive to equip officers with innovative technology to improve the efficiency of evidence obtained during interviews with victims, particularly women and girls affected by violence.

    By facilitating swift access to professional-quality video and audio recordings, the portable DIR kits aim to enhance investigative outcomes, provide better support to victims, and deliver justice for Londoners.

    The lightweight kits, easily carried underarm, can be employed to record interviews with suspects, victims or witnesses.

    The footage is quickly and confidentially uploaded to a cloud-based system, ensuring immediate accessibility for stakeholders, including the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) and senior Met leaders.

    This streamlined process eliminates previous delays in accessing vital evidence, enabling faster investigations and helping the Met get offenders off the streets.

    The kits, which have recently been distributed to specialist teams in the Met, including the Rape and Serious Sexual Offences and the Child Abuse Investigation Teams, reduce the need for victim-survivors to travel to a Met building to recount what happened.

    Victims can provide their account in a more comfortable environment giving police the best chance of capturing better quality evidence to progress an investigation to catch a perpetrator.

    Additionally, the DIR portable kits facilitate remote identification parades, allowing victims and witnesses unable to attend in-person to identify suspects.

    Commander Stephen Clayman, lead for the roll-out of the Digital Interview Recording kits, said:

    “The wider rollout of the fixed Digital Interview Recording equipment has so far proved very successful, eliminating the use of DVDs, providing additional functionality and ultimately saving officers and staff valuable time, with their interviews being available instantly.

    “This represents one of the largest rollouts of this equipment nationally given the scale of the MPS. It has also provided additional opportunities, especially with the provision of portable Digital Interview Recording kits.

    “It has helped us to listen and respond to victims’ experiences and use of the equipment has allowed us to capture evidence in an environment which puts the victims first, giving us the relevant and vital evidence we need to catch a perpetrator.

    “This hopefully alleviates some pressure during what is already an incredibly hard process for them.”

    The kits were launched by the Met’s Digital Data and Technology team in July last year and has been successfully piloted, paving the way for the Met to safeguard victims in way they’ve not been able to before.

    Digital Interview Recording is used in the UK and further afield in Belgium, Poland, Luxembourg and America, and there are now approximately 160 deployments of portable kits across the world.

    The kit was tested last summer, with several successful outcomes, including a female victim-survivor who had returned home to Poland following an aggravated burglary and sexual assault. The woman conducted an ID parade with Met officers at the British Embassy in Poland, which resulted in the suspect being located back in the UK, charged and remanded.

    Detective Inspector Richard Lewsley, from the Met’s Rape and Serious Sexual unit in north west London, said:

    “Our team were fortunate enough to be involved in the piloting of this crucial piece of kit which allows front line officers to offer a service which puts victims first.

    “The device demonstrates we are committed to supporting victims’ needs and enabling them to provide evidence whilst giving our officers the right tools to do their jobs effectively.

    “DIR gives officers the ability to operate efficiently, receive a high-quality product and relay it back to an investigation team within minutes of an interview finishing.

    “It’s shown it can alleviate stress on my officers by giving them the capability to conduct interviews and better manage their time in ways they wouldn’t have been able to do before.

    “The time saved in capturing evidence, as well as the choice offered to victims to decide where and when they provide evidence, makes this device invaluable.

    “DIR is not limited to one crime type and I’m sure, in time, many will benefit.”

    James Higgins, Project Manager with the Met’s Digital Data and Technology team, said:

    “We have collaborated with front-line officers and the supplier to develop an advanced, secure and comprehensive Portable Interview Kit which represents a transformative approach to interviewing, offering substantial benefits to the Metropolitan Police and enhancing the conduct of victim and witness interviews.

    “The kits empower Met interviewing officers to confidently gather high-quality evidence and allows secure transmission from anywhere in the world back to the investigative team for prompt analysis and fast-time action.

    “DIR utilises the same interview software and input screens as the Met’s new Fixed Interview Room system, which is being implemented across the Met, adding to significant changes in business processes and saving the Met money.”

    The equipment has also been used in a variety of locations including prisons, mental health secure units, hospitals, hotels, schools, care homes and overseas in government or law enforcement buildings.

    As part of our A New Met for London plan, the Met is determined to fix its foundations to ensure officers and staff can succeed to better serve Londoners, equipped with the best tools to cut crime. These kits offer the best technology available so officers can use their powers precisely while maintaining trust and upholding high standards.

    Notes to Editors

    The Met is determined in its mission to ensure women and girls feel safe wherever they are. We committed as part of our Violence Against Women and Girls action plan to improve how we communicate with the public about what we are doing, which included sharing progress on our plans and being clear on what success means. Improved trust, safer places and taking a victim-centred approach to crime is at the heart of that plan: Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) action plan | Metropolitan Police

    If you’ve been a victim of rape or sexual assault, charities and support agencies can offer help and guidance:

    Rape Crisis: 08085002222  

    National Rape and Sexual Abuse Helpline: 0808 802 9999   

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on State Preparedness Efforts for Tropical Storm Milton

    Source: US State of Florida

    TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Today, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Florida Division of Emergency Management Executive Director Kevin Guthrie at the State Emergency Operations Center to provide updates on preparedness efforts for Tropical Storm Milton.

    As of 8 a.m., Tropical Storm Milton is located about 860 miles west-southwest of Tampa, Florida, with maximum sustained wind gusts near 60 mph. Milton is forecast to move across the Gulf of Mexico and approach the west coast of Florida by midweek.

    Governor DeSantis issued Executive Order 24-215, amending EO 24-214 and declaring a state of emergency for 51 counties.

    To learn more about navigating hurricane season, residents can visit FloridaDisaster.org/Guide. For updates on county resources available visit FloridaDisaster.org/Counties for a list of all 67 county emergency management contacts.

    State Preparedness Efforts

    • The Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) has activated the State Emergency Operations Center to Level 1 since Tuesday, September 24, for Hurricane Helene, and is at a Level 1 for Tropical Storm Milton as of today, October 6, leading coordination efforts for the State Emergency Response Team.
    • The Florida Department of Veteran’s Affairs (FDVA) storm preparations are underway at all State Veterans’ Nursing Homes in anticipation of Tropical Storm Milton’s landfall.
    • The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) is performing maintenance on all equipment deployed during Hurricane Helene to ensure it is ready for use in Tropical Storm Milton.
    • FDLE Regional Operations Centers in Tampa and Fort Myers are establishing their Regional Law Enforcement Coordination Teams (RLECT).
    • FDLE agents working Operation Blue Ridge are demobilizing to respond to Tropical Storm Milton. Maintenance is being conducted on equipment returning from North Carolina.
    • The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has readied high-water vehicles and all other storm response resources statewide so they may be rapidly deployed to assist Floridians in need in the event of damage or flooding. Contingency plans based on forecasted landfall locations have been developed and remain flexible based on the storm’s projected path.
    • FWC officers are ready to deploy and respond with a variety of specialized equipment as necessary, such as:
      • Airboats
      • Shallow draft boats
      • ATVs/Side-by-sides
      • Larger platform vessels
      • Four-wheel vehicles
    • FWC Special Operations Group (SOG) teams will serve as reconnaissance units for the state and report on damage after the storm has made landfall.
    • FWC Aviation Section has been placed on standby and has readied all appropriate aircraft for potential deployment for aerial assistance, reconnaissance, and post-storm damage assessments when needed.

    Health and Human Services

    • The Florida Department of Health’s (DOH) deployed over 200 emergency response vehicles on the I4 Corridor in preparation for the storm.
    • The Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) has initiated an event in the Health Facility Reporting System (HFRS). Health care providers in the have been requested to provide information on census, available beds, evacuation status, accepting evacuees and generator needs from counties declared under EO-24-114. This information allows AHCA to assist healthcare providers in transferring patients if needed and ensure that health care providers in impacted areas have the necessary resources and adequate power.
    • The Department of Elder Affairs (DOEA) is contacting all our Area Agencies on Aging partners to receive updates on their ongoing preparation efforts and gather the status of any unmet needs.
    • The Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) will continue to host calls with APD leadership, regional and facilities to brief them on Tropical Storm Milton and provide updates on protective actions, the status of clients and residents, and anticipated unmet needs in potentially affected areas.

    Infrastructure, Roads and State Closures

    • The Florida Department of Transportation’s (FDOT) Tropical Storm Milton statewide preparedness efforts include clearing shoulders in preparation for potential Emergency Should Use (ESU):
      • Currently analyzing flooding vulnerabilities for major roadways and bridges.
      • Inspecting and clearing drainage systems, monitoring flood-prone and currently saturated areas, and pre-positioning pumps as appropriate.
      • Securing high mast lighting, maintenance yards, active construction projects, rest areas/welcome centers, service plazas, and weigh stations that had returned to normal since Hurricane Helene.
      • Replenishing fuel reserves, checking generator readiness, and pre-positioning assets as appropriate.
      • Completing repairs on malfunctioning vehicles and equipment in preparation for deployment.
      • Initiated communication with modal partners – seaports, airports, railroads, transit, and spaceports. All partners are currently in monitoring posture.
      • Staging ITS trailers, as well as drone teams and equipment are being prepped and ready to deploy as needed.
    • FDOT has removed over 53,339 cubic yards of debris to date.
    • FDOT encourages drivers to download the FL511 app or visit FL511.com for road/bridge closures and potential detours that may be activated. Remember to always follow the direction of local law enforcement and emergency personnel.
    • FDOT is supporting our local communities with supplemental sand and debris removal from local roads on the barrier islands in Pinellas and Manatee counties.
    • At the direction of Gov. DeSantis, FDOT is coordinating debris removal assignments for the Florida National Guard, Florida State Guard, Florida Highway Patrol, amongst others, who have activated available state personnel and resources to clear and haul remaining debris.
    • In preparation for Tropical Storm Milton, FDOT’s out-of-state deployed resources have begun to transition back to Florida operations.
    • The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is coordinating with EPA’s Landfill Strike Teams to provide technical support and assistance for these sites. For counties and local governments in need of additional debris disposal locations, especially ahead of this new storm, DEP has approved all DDMS site requests.
    • Currently, 186 Disaster Debris Management Sites (DDMS) have been authorized to operate for Hurricane Helene.
    • Hurricane Helene kicked up significant amounts of sediment and sand along the coastlines in and along its path. DEP is working with local governments to manage the excess sand and continue removal efforts.
    • For sand that has accumulated on private properties, residents should return it to the beach if it appears clean, smells fresh and is free of debris. If the sand contains debris, residents should contact their local government to find the nearest disposal site. DEP has worked with counties to establish temporary staging areas to properly screen the sand before it is returned to the beach.
    • DEP is working with Florida’s Water/Wastewater Agency Response Network (FlaWARN), the Florida Rural Water Association and other response agencies to ensure preparations are underway to support drinking and wastewater facilities ahead of the anticipated heavy rains.
    • Florida’s water management districts are engaging local governments and drainage operators throughout the state and are available to provide technical and other support, including deploying temporary pumps to alleviate localized flooding. As part of standard operations, DEP and Florida’s water management districts continue to monitor water systems and river levels as the storm develops.
    • Currently, no Florida State Parks are closed because of this anticipated storm. For updates on state parks affected by Hurricane Helene or Tropical Storm Milton, please visit: FloridaStateParks.org/StormUpdates.
    • The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) is staging high-water rescue vehicles in preparation for landfall.
    • FHP is prepared to deploy up to 120 Quick Response Force (QRF) Troopers to affected areas.
    • FHP is assisting with traffic control in St. Petersburg.
    • FHP air support and drone assets are staged and prepared to deploy when needed.
    • The Florida Department of Education (DOE) is actively monitoring Tropical Storm Milton and is working with school districts as they begin preparation efforts. The Department is also in close contact with districts that have been impacted by Hurricane Helene and will assist them with addressing critical needs ahead of the storm. Updates on school closures can be found at FLDOE.org/storminfo.

    Resources for Employees, Businesses and Consumers

    • The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) is staging assets and personnel across 13 offices statewide and is prepared to surge resources to areas impacted by Hurricane Helene that receive a second impact from Tropical Storm Milton.
    • Updates on business closures and business resources are consistently being updated at FloridaDisaster.biz.
    • FloridaCommerce activated the private sector hotline at (850) 815-4925, open daily 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Inquiries may also be emailed to ESF18@em.myflorida.com.
    • FloridaCommerce is hosting daily private sector coordination calls. Briefings will be provided by Emergency Support Functions and private sector partners. For call information email ESF18@em.myflorida.com.
    • VISIT FLORIDA Emergency Accommodation Modules on Expedia, Priceline and Booking.com will remain available to provide real-time hotel availability and lodging resources for impacted Floridians and visitors.
    • The Florida Small Business Development Center Network (SBDC) has pulled their Helene Mobile Assistance Centers from the field and will redeploy once storm conditions have passed.Follow FDEM on X, Instagram, and Facebook for updates and visit FloridaDisaster.org/Updates for information relating to Tropical Storm Milton.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: October explainer: Returning the Te Wero Wynyard Crossing Bridge to service

    Source: Auckland Council

    The Te Wero Wynyard Crossing Bridge has been closed since March 2024 to undergo a significant programme of preventative maintenance works.

    Work on the bridge is making good progress, with a return to full service on track for December 2024.

    Stay connected and informed. Sign up for our Wynyard Crossing Bridge maintenance newsletter to receive updates on bridge maintenance, special announcements, and exclusive insights by email. Click here to sign up.

    What is happening in October 2024?

    Throughout October the project team’s focus will be on the massive job of reassembling and reinstating the disassembled bridge parts.

    The engine rooms, lifting spans and back spans, which were relocated to a work-site on Wynyard Wharf, have been refurbished and are almost ready to be reinstalled. High-pressure water and abrasive blasting revealed the full extent of the corrosion, and extensive repairs along with new protective coatings are almost complete and will ensure the structural reliability of the bridge into the future.

    Additionally, works have been underway on the steel structural parts of the bridge located in the harbour that couldn’t be removed, with the team working around the tides and wind conditions to access these areas to make any necessary repairs and apply a new protective coating.

    The main contractor HEB Construction will be redeploying their jack-up barge (JUB) in and around Viaduct Marina at various times through October as these parts are returned. It’s expected it will take around five weeks before all the steel parts that form the ‘skeleton’ of the bridge are back in place, ready for the next stage as the bridge is prepared to return to service in December 2024.

    Once these pieces are secured, the bridge spans will be winched to an upright position in line with the resource consent to allow free passage for marine traffic while it’s being recommissioned.

    Where possible, the mechanical and electrical works required to return the bridge to service have been underway. However, it’s important to note that while the bridge will, from a visual perspective, look like it’s ready for public use again once the structural parts are back in place, there is still a considerable amount of on-site mechanical and electrical work to be completed and tested as part of the commissioning.

    Most of this work will happen in November. We’ll have more updates on that and other activity at the beginning of next month. In the meantime, the popular ‘Red Boats‘ ferry service will continue to operate seven days a week and as well as being a handy way to get across from the Maritime Museum to the Viaduct Events Centre, will also offer those interested a great view and perspective of the team working on the structural refit.

    Background

    The Te Wero Wynyard Crossing Bridge, an important link between Auckland City Centre and the Wynyard Quarter, has been closed to the public since March 2024 to undergo a significant programme of preventative maintenance works.

    This includes a full overhaul of old mechanical and electrical parts, sand-blasting and remedying steelwork and applying new protective coatings. At the completion of the physical works, a thorough commissioning process and acceptance tests will be conducted to ensure the bridge is reliable and safe for public use.

    While the works are carried out, the bridge will remain closed to pedestrians. When the spans are in place, but the bridge is out of operation, the spans legally have to remain upright to allow free access to marine traffic, a condition of the bridge’s resource consent.

    Because of the complexity of this project and the nature of the works, a date for the bridge to reopen to the public is still to be confirmed. As the project team get further through the programme and gain more certainty around remaining tasks, they will be able to more accurately specify a completion date.

    There are two work programmes underway – structural, i.e. the physical bridge itself, and mechanical and engineering (M&E), i.e. everything needed to operate the bridge.

    These programmes have been running concurrently and will soon start integrating fully as we enter the final phases of this large, complex project and the bridge is reinstalled in Wynyard Quarter.

    The return of the physical structures, including the spans and engine rooms, will allow specialist technicians to begin the works to reanimate the bridge. So while it might look like it’s back and should be open, there will be a lot going on behind the scenes for the recommissioning in December to ensure long-term durability and reliability.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Official ceremony held in Bridgetown to mark 48th anniversary of Barbados crime

    THOUSAND OSI Translation. Region: Spanish/Latin America/UN –

    Source: Republic of Cuba

    Official ceremony celebrated in Bridgetown for the 48th anniversary of the Barbados crimeBRIDGETOWN, Barbados – (October 6, 2024). This morning the official ceremony took place in Bridgetown for the 48th anniversary of the mid-flight explosion of Cubana de Aviación aircraft 455, which fell into the territorial waters of Barbados on October 6, 1976 and where 73 people were lost. life because of this terrorist act.  The Monument erected to the victims was also the scene to commemorate the 2nd anniversary of the CARICOM-Cuba Anti-Terrorism Day, as a result of the agreement adopted by the CARICOM countries and Cuba at the Summit held in December 2022. Government figures attended, members of the diplomatic corps accredited to the Island, members of the Cuba Barbados Friendship Association and the Pan-Africanist Movement, representatives of Barbadian social institutions and youth organizations, Cuban residents and members of the Barbados state mission, to pay posthumous tribute to the victims of such a horrendous crime. The Honorable Sandra Husbands, Acting Minister of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade of Barbados, began the oratory at this solemn event, remembering the tragedy that occurred almost five decades ago, shortly after the nations that members of CARICOM had initiated diplomatic relations with the Republic of Cuba. Although this terrorist action was designed to create terror in the Caribbean community, it instead strengthened the commitment to establish lasting bilateral and regional relations with Cuba, our brother country. “During these almost 50 years, relations between Cuba and Barbados have witnessed of the good relations that we maintain, which have been consolidated because we defend honor and integrity in an international context full of hardships, obstacles and challenges and only united can we overcome the fear that terrorist acts like this instill, “said the dignitary. She mentioned the multiple examples of Cuba’s solidarity with Barbados, with the CARICOM countries and with the rest of the world and ratified the commitment to continue strengthening the fraternal relations between the CARICOM countries and the Republic of Cuba. Emotional and heartfelt were the words of the Ambassador of Cuba in Barbados, Yanet Stable Cárdenas when she expressed: “Tears came to our eyes every time we listened to the recording of the black box, the only survivor of the explosion and witness to the barbarism in mid-flight. «Stick to the water, Felo, stick to the water! “We put ourselves in the families’ shoes when they were confirmed that unfortunately the plane in which their loved ones were traveling had suffered a terrorist attack, and we felt their pain as our own. The imprint of terror marks us when we imagine the orphanhood that shadowed the days of those children whose father or mother were taken away by terror; when parents, after losing their only daughter in that criminal act, gave up living; when a young man lost his only sister, when a bride was left waiting; when a life that had just germinated in the womb of a woman never saw the light; when many families were left with open arms waiting eternally for the return of their loved ones.” “…the hatred, intolerance and fanaticism that fueled that act continue to run rampant. The children of Palestine and other Middle Eastern countries today suffer the prejudices of terror and darkness. “The threats to the Cuban Revolution and the acts of aggression under the blockade and the inclusion of Cuba on the list of alleged countries sponsoring terrorism remain in force, without valid arguments and without reasons that support such genocidal acts against a people that defends its independence, fights for its dreams of justice for Cuba and for the world.” “The Cuban Institute of Friendship with the Peoples has called the Day for Peace, against the blockade and Terrorism, For a Free Palestine!; For a Cuba without blockade!; For a future of peace and sovereignty! The defense of peace is urgent.” “Today the Memorial erected to the martyrs of the Cubana de Aviación plane is a witness to the commemoration of the Second Anniversary of the “CARICOM-Cuba Day against Terrorism,” declared during the VIII CARICOM-Cuba Summit. , held in Barbados in December 2022. This represents the reason and the voice of condemnation of terrorism in any of its manifestations, to never forget the victims of these acts and maintain the commitment of Caribbean people to Peace. Cuban President, Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, said in his speech before this Monument on December 6, 2022 and I quote: «Cuba does not forget either. We denounce, in all open forums, that the same hatred of those who guaranteed impunity to terrorists moves those who, in unacceptable offenses to the victims, continue to cause pain to Cuba, by inscribing their names on a spurious list of sponsors of terrorism. This site, this memorial, confirms that Cuba can only be on the list, if it existed, of the victims of terrorism” and paraphrasing the eternal Commander in Chief Fidel Castro Ruz, when he gave his historic speech on October 15, 1976, we would say today : When energetic and virile peoples cry, injustice trembles!” Mrs. Geneva Ross-Tyndall, Consul General (ag) of Guyana in Barbados, for her part, also gave a speech condemning terrorism, reflected on what fragile and fleeting that is life when in each of those 73 victims, including the eleven Guyanese, who were mostly young students, full of promise, who aspired to become doctors and engineers. In all of them, a dream, a hope, a future was broken. The youngest victim was only nine years old. This profound loss that occurred near Payne’s Bay brought the harsh reality of terrorism to the shores of Barbados. He said that “decisive measures are urgently needed to protect our region and guarantee that the Caribbean remains a sanctuary of peace. The far-reaching effects of terrorism are being felt in many nations and remind us of our common vulnerability, shared vulnerability.” He also expressed that “we live in a world plagued by divisions, but we must draw strength from our collective unity. Together we can foster a spirit of solidarity that drives us to take crucial action. We must challenge the forces of hatred and violence that seek to disrupt our harmony and cultivate environments of understanding and tolerance.” “Peace is the highest aspiration of human civilization, and world peace is based on respect and human dignity, on the rights of each individual to create a just, equitable and peaceful world. Through solidarity, vigilance and open dialogue, we can confront this global threat and work towards a safer future for all.” Ambassador Wayne McCook, Deputy Secretary-General, CARICOM Single Market and Trade, thanked the Government of Barbados, on behalf of the Caribbean Community, the possibility of “gathering once again in this serene place of remembrance, the Memorial erected to the 73 victims, to commemorate and reflect, while reaffirming the declaration to maintain our commitment to preserve the Caribbean as a Zone of Peace.” The closing words of the solemn ceremony were pronounced by His Excellency. Mr. David Comissiong, Ambassador of Barbados to CARICOM,   who said that “the event was horrific, it traumatized the nation of Barbados, and the people had to fulfill the sad duty of trying to recover the bodies of the territorial sea from the waters of the territorial sea. destroyed of the seventy-three victims. The painful and unforgettable tragedy forever united Cuba, Guyana, North Korea, Venezuela and Barbados. He expressed that “this solemn and sacred occasion is conducive to highlighting our mutual solidarity and sending a strong message on a global scale that we must strive to achieve a world in which mutual respect and peace prevail and the seeds of hatred, intolerance and terrorism are eliminated.”“This horrible Cuban tragedy turned out to be a catalyst that motivated our Caribbean Community to establish one of the fundamental pillars of our collective Foreign Policy: proclaiming that the Caribbean must be a Zone of Peace.” “CARICOM/Cuba Against Terrorism Day is, therefore, a day in which it is expected that the Republic of Cuba, the 15 full Member States of CARICOM and the 5 Associate Member States of CARICOM, participate in activities to highlight the importance of the fight against terrorism. In his speech he alluded to the multiple terrorist and genocidal acts that have been perpetrated against the peoples of the Middle East and exclaimed that once again, we raise our Caribbean voices and demand that the international institutions that have been established to intervene when excessive and illegal acts of national and international terrorism are perpetrated, act now to put an end to the barbarity “It merits the occasion to denounce the oldest case of terrorism in our own Caribbean region, State terrorism against the Republic of Cuba.” “The ridiculous inclusion of Cuba as a State sponsor of terrorism has only served to reinforce the effects of “illegal US blockade by increasing Cuba’s difficulties in participating in international trade, carrying out financial operations and acquiring basic products of first necessity for its people.” “It is this terrible and undeserved situation that led Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley to make the following statement about Cuba during her speech on September 27, 2024 before the United Nations General Assembly”:-.«And, Mr. President , you cannot come to this platform, unfortunately, (…) and not have to ask for a pardon for the people of Cuba. It is unacceptable, it is inconceivable. And that it continues today is a mark on our international conscience. The Cuban people continue to face the most dire economic circumstances, and this is a direct consequence of their exclusion and their designation as a State sponsor of terrorism. And I have stated that our only knowledge of terrorism and Cuba is, in fact, the downing of the Cubana plane off the waters of Barbados, where Cubans, Guyanese and Koreans died. My friends, Cuba has been a valuable partner, helping us when we needed it most, providing nurses and doctors in pandemics and other essential workers when the world community needed it, and also when towns in southern Africa had to be liberated! The reality is that we must continue to call resolutely for the embargo to be lifted, and we will condemn it year after year because, quite simply, it is wrong!’ Mr Comissiong concluded his emotional speech by demanding on behalf of the Government and people of Barbados and In fact, on behalf of the entire Caribbean Community, that the Government of the United States of America end its illegal blockade against Cuba and remove Cuba from the list of State sponsors of terrorism of the United States Department of State The event concluded when the speakers, all together, placed wreaths, not only to pay tribute to the victims of Cubana de Aviación Flight 455, but also to evoke the urgent need to join forces to put an end to terrorism together. Cubaminrex – EmbaCuba Barbados)

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Secretary-General’s message to mark one year since the attacks of 7 October 2023 [scroll down for Arabic, Chinese, French, Hebrew, Russian and Spanish]

    Source: United Nations – English

    ownload the video: https://s3.amazonaws.com/downloads2.unmultimedia.org/public/video/evergreen/MSG+SG+/SG+4+Oct+24/MSG+SG+1+YEAR+ANNIVERSARY+OF+OCT+7+ATTACKS+04+OCT+24+EN.mp4

    Today marks one year since the horrific events of October 7th when Hamas launched a large-scale terror attack in Israel killing over 1,250 Israelis and foreign nationals, including children and women. 

    More than 250 people were abducted and taken to Gaza, including many women and children.  
     
    The October 7th attack scarred souls – and on this day we remember all those who were brutally killed and suffered unspeakable violence – including sexual violence – as they were simply living their lives.  
     
    This is a day for the global community to repeat in the loudest voice our utter condemnation of the abhorrent acts of Hamas, including the taking of hostages.  
     
    Over the course of the past year, I have met with the families of hostages…learned more about the lives, hopes and dreams of their loved ones … and shared in their anguish and pain.

    I cannot imagine the torture they are forced to endure every day.  I demand once again the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages. 

    Until then, Hamas must allow the International Committee of the Red Cross to visit those hostages. 
     
    The 7th of October is naturally a day to focus on the events of that awful day.  I express my solidarity with all the victims and their loved ones.

    Since October 7th, a wave of shocking violence and bloodshed has erupted.

    The war that has followed the terrible attacks of one year ago continues to shatter lives and inflict profound human suffering for Palestinians in Gaza, and now the people of Lebanon. 

    I have spoken out about this often and clearly. 

    It is time for the release of the hostages.  Time to silence the guns.  Time to stop the suffering that has engulfed the region.  Time for peace, international law and justice.

    The United Nations is fully committed to achieving those goals.

    In the midst of so much bloodshed and division, we must hold on to hope. 

    Let us honour the memory of the victims, reunite families and end the suffering and violence in the whole Middle East.

    And let us never stop working for a lasting solution to the conflict where Israel, Palestine and all other countries of the region can finally live in peace and dignity and with respect for one another. 

    ***

    Download the video with Arabic subtitles: https://s3.amazonaws.com/downloads2.unmultimedia.org/public/video/evergreen/MSG+SG+/SG+4+Oct+24/MSG+SG+1+YEAR+ANNIVERSARY+OF+OCT+7+ATTACKS+04+OCT+24+AR.mp4

                يصادف اليوم مرور عام على الأحداث المروعة التي وقعت في السابع من تشرين الأول/أكتوبر عندما شنت حماس هجوماً إرهابياً واسع النطاق في إسرائيل أسفر عن مقتل أكثر من 1,250 من الإسرائيليين والرعايا الأجانب، بينهم أطفال ونساء.
                وجرى في هذا الهجوم اختطاف أكثر من 250 شخصا، بينهم العديد من النساء والأطفال، واقتيادهم إلى غزة.
                لقد خلّف هجوم السابع من تشرين الأول/أكتوبر ندوبا غائرة في النفوس – وها نحن في يومنا هذا نستحضر ذكرى جميع أولئك الذين قُتلوا بوحشية وتعرضوا لعنف يجلُّ عن الوصف – بما فيه العنف الجنسي – بينما كانوا يعيشون حياتهم كأي إنسان عادي.
                إنه يوم يكرر فيه المجتمع الدولي بأعلى صوته إدانتنا المطلقة للأفعال الشنعاء التي قامت بها حماس، بما في ذلك اختطاف رهائن.
                ولقد التقيت على مدار العام الماضي بعائلات الرهائن.. تعرفت بدرجة أكبر على حياة أحبائهم وآمالهم وأحلامهم، وشاطرتهم معاناتهم وألمهم.
                ولا أستطيع أن أتخيل العذاب الذي يُجبرون على تحمله كل يوم. وأطالب مرة أخرى بالإفراج الفوري وغير المشروط عن جميع الرهائن.
                وحتى ذلك الحين، يجب أن تسمح حماس للجنة الدولية للصليب الأحمر بزيارة هؤلاء الرهائن.
                ومن الطبيعي أن يكون يوم السابع من تشرين الأول/أكتوبر يوما للتركيز على أحداث ذلك اليوم البغيض. وإنني أعرب عن تضامني مع جميع الضحايا وأحبائهم.
                ولقد اندلعت منذ السابع من تشرين الأول/أكتوبر موجة مروعة من العنف وسفك الدماء.
                ولا تزال الحرب التي أعقبت الهجمات الرهيبة التي وقعت قبل عام تعصف بحياة الفلسطينيين في غزة وتُلحق بهم معاناة إنسانية بالغة، هم وشعب لبنان الآن.
                وهو أمر كثيرا ما تحدثتُ عنه بوضوح.
                لقد حان الوقت لإطلاق سراح الرهائن. حان الوقت لإسكات البنادق. حان الوقت لوقف المعاناة التي اجتاحت المنطقة. حان وقت السلام والقانون الدولي والعدالة.
                والأمم المتحدة ملتزمة تمام الالتزام بتحقيق تلك الأهداف.
                ويجب علينا، في خضم الكثير من سفك الدماء والانقسام، أن نتشبث بالأمل.
                دعونا نكرّم ذكرى الضحايا، ونُعِدْ لم شمل العائلات ونضع حدا للمعاناة والعنف في الشرق الأوسط بأكمله.
                دعونا لا نتوقف أبدًا عن العمل من أجل التوصل إلى حل دائم للنزاع يمكِّن إسرائيل وفلسطين وجميع الدول الأخرى في المنطقة من أن تنعم أخيرا بالعيش في سلام وكرامة واحترام لبعضها البعض.

    ***

    今天是10月7日可怕事件发生一周年，那一天哈马斯在以色列发动大规模恐怖袭击，造成1 250多名以色列人和外国国民死亡，其中包括儿童和妇女，另有数千人受伤。
    250多人被绑架并带到加沙，其中有许多妇女和儿童。
    10月7日袭击事件在人们的心灵上留下了创伤——今天，我们缅怀所有那些被残忍杀害和遭受无比凶狠暴力——包括性暴力——的人，毕竟他们当时只是在过自己的生活。
    今天，国际社会应当再次以最响亮的声音强烈谴责哈马斯的恶行，包括劫持人质行为。
    在过去一年里，我会见了人质家属，与家属同哀，对其亲人的生活、期许和梦想有了更多的了解。
    我无法想象他们每天被迫承受的折磨。我再次要求立即无条件释放所有人质。
    在此之前，哈马斯必须允许红十字国际委员会探视这些人质。
    10月7日自然是注重探讨那可怕一天所发生事件的日子。我向所有受害者及其亲人表示慰问。
    10月7日之后爆发了一波令人震惊的暴力和流血事件。
    一年前可怕袭击之后发生的战争至今仍在摧毁生命，给加沙巴勒斯坦人、如今又给黎巴嫩人民造成深重的人类痛苦。
    我经常明确地谈到这一点。
    现在是时候释放人质了。是时候平息枪炮声了。是时候结束席卷该地区的苦难了。和平、国际法和正义的时候到了。
    联合国完全致力于实现这些目标。
    面对如此众多的流血和分裂，我们必须坚守希望。
    让我们缅怀受害者，促成家人团圆，终止整个中东的痛苦和暴力。
    让我们永远不要停止为持久解决冲突而努力，使以色列、巴勒斯坦和该地区所有其他国家最终都能在和平、尊严和相互尊重中生活。
    ***
    Un an s’est écoulé depuis les terribles événements du 7 octobre, ce jour où le Hamas a lancé une attaque terroriste de grande ampleur en Israël, tuant plus de 1 250 Israéliens et ressortissants étrangers, y compris des femmes et des enfants.
    Plus de 250 personnes, dont beaucoup de femmes et d’enfants, ont été enlevées et emmenées à Gaza.
    L’attaque du 7 octobre a frappé les esprits. En ce jour, nous nous souvenons de toutes celles et de tous ceux qui ont été brutalement tués ou subi des violences indicibles – y compris des violences sexuelles – alors qu’ils vivaient simplement leurs vies.
    Aujourd’hui est le jour où la communauté internationale doit redire haut et fort qu’elle condamne catégoriquement les actes odieux commis par le Hamas, y compris la prise d’otages.
    Au cours de l’année écoulée, j’ai rencontré les familles des otages et en ai appris davantage sur la vie, les espoirs et les rêves de leurs proches, tout en partageant leur angoisse et leur peine.
    Je n’imagine pas les tourments qu’ils doivent endurer chaque jour. J’exige une fois encore la libération immédiate et inconditionnelle de tous les otages.
    Tant qu’ils n’auront pas été libérés, le Hamas doit permettre au Comité international de la Croix-Rouge de leur rendre visite.
    Le 7 octobre est bien sûr un jour où l’on se concentre sur les événements de ce jour atroce. J’exprime ma solidarité avec toutes les victimes et leurs proches.
    Depuis le 7 octobre, une terrible vague de violence et d’effusion de sang a éclaté.
    La guerre qui a suivi la terrible attaque de l’année dernière continue de briser des vies et d’infliger de profondes souffrances aux Palestiniens de Gaza et, aujourd’hui, au peuple libanais.
    Je me suis exprimé à ce sujet de façon claire et répétée.
    L’heure est venue de libérer les otages. L’heure est venue de faire taire les armes. L’heure est venue de mettre fin aux souffrances qui engloutissent la région. L’heure est à la paix, au droit international et à la justice.
    L’Organisation des Nations Unies est pleinement déterminée à atteindre ces objectifs.
    Au milieu de tant d’horreurs et de divisions, nous devons garder l’espoir.
    Honorons la mémoire des victimes, réunissons les familles et mettons fin à la souffrance et à la violence dans l’ensemble du Moyen-Orient.
    Ne cessons jamais d’oeuvrer en faveur d’une solution durable au conflit, afin qu’Israël, la Palestine et tous les autres pays de la région vivent enfin dans la paix, la dignité et le respect mutuel.
    ***

    Download the video with Hebrew subtitles: https://s3.amazonaws.com/downloads2.unmultimedia.org/public/video/evergreen/MSG+SG+/SG+4+Oct+24/MSG+SG+1+YEAR+ANNIVERSARY+OF+OCT+7+ATTACKS+04+OCT+24+HB.mp4

    היום אנחנו מציינים שנה מאז האירועים הנוראיים של ה-7 באוקטובר, כאשר חמאס פתח במתקפת טרור נרחבת על ישראל, שבא נהרגו למעלה מ-1,250 ישראלים ואזרחים זרים, כולל ילדים ונשים..
    יותר מ-250 בני אדם נחטפו ונלקחו בני ערובה לעזה, רבים מהם נשים וילדים.
    הפיגוע ב-7 באוקטובר צילקה נשמות – וביום הזה אנחנו זוכרים את כל מי שנהרג באכזריות ואת אלה שסבלו מאלימות שאין לתאר – כולל אלימות מינית – בזמן שהם פשוט חיו את חייהם.
    זהו יום שבו הקהילה הבין–לאומית תחזור בקול הרם החזק ביותר שלנו בגינוי מוחלט למעשיו המתועבים של חמאס, כולל לקיחת בני ערובה.
    במהלך השנה האחרונה, נפגשתי עם משפחות החטופים, ולמדתי יותר על חייהם, ועל התקוות והחלומות שלהם ועל  יקיריהם, והשתתפתי בייסורים שלהם, ובכאב שלהם
    אני לא יכול לדמיין את העינויים שהם נאלצים לסבול מדי יום. אני קורא ודורש שוב את שחרורם המיידי וללא תנאים של כל החטופים.
    עד אז, אני קורא לחמאס לאפשר לצלב האדום לבקר את כל בני הערובה.
    ה-7 באוקטובר הוא כמובן יום להתמקד באירועים של אותו יום נורא. אני מביע את הזדהותי עם כל הקורבנות ויקיריהם.
    מאז ה-7 באוקטובר פרץ גל של אלימות מזעזעת ושפיכות דמים.
    המלחמה שבאה בעקבות הפיגועים הנוראים של ה7.10 ממשיכה לנפץ חיים ולגרום לסבל אנושי עמוק לפלסטינים בעזה, וכעת לתושבי לבנון.
    דיברתי על זה לעתים קרובות ובאופן ברור ונחרץ.
    הגיע הזמן לשחרור החטופים. הגיע הזמן להשתיק את הרובים. הגיע הזמן להפסיק את הסבל שאפף את האזור. הגיע הזמן לשלום, לחוק בינלאומי ולצדק.
    האו”ם מחויב במלואו להשגת מטרות אלו.
    בתוך כל כך הרבה שפיכות דמים ופילוג, עלינו להחזיק בתקווה.
    בואו נכבד את זכר הקורבנות, נאחד משפחות ונסיים את הסבל והאלימות בכל מזרח התיכון.
    ולעולם לא נפסיק לפעול למען פתרון יציב וקבוע לסכסוך שבין ישראל, פלסטין וכל שאר מדינות האזור, שיוכלו כולם סוף סוף לחיות בשלום ובכבוד זה ליד זה.
     

    Сегодня исполняется год со дня ужасных событий 7 октября, когда ХАМАС совершило в Израиле масштабное террористиче-ское нападение, в результате которого погибли более 1250 израильтян и иностранных граждан, включая детей и жен-щин.
    Более 250 человек были похищены и увезены в Газу, среди них много женщин и детей.
    Нападение 7 октября оставило неизгладимый след в сердцах людей, и сегодня мы вспоминаем всех тех, кто просто жил своей жизнью и был жестоко убит или подвергся чудовищному наси-лию, в том числе сексуальному.
    В этот день мировое сообщество должно вновь во всеуслы-шание осудить омерзительные действия ХАМАС, включая захват заложников.
    В течение прошедшего года я встречался с семьями заложни-ков, узнал о жизни, надеждах и мечтах их близких и разделил их страдания и боль.
    Я не могу представить, какой пытке они подвергаются еже-дневно. Я вновь требую немедленного и безоговорочного осво-бождения всех заложников.
    Пока же ХАМАС должна разрешить Международному коми-тету Красного Креста посетить заложников.
    Как и следовало ожидать, 7 октября посвящено событиям того ужасного дня. Я выражаю свою солидарность со всеми жертвами и их близкими.
    Начиная с 7 октября поднялась волна ужасающего насилия и кровопролития.
    Война, последовавшая за ужасными нападениями годичной давности, продолжает ломать жизни и причинять глубокие чело-веческие страдания палестинцам в Газе, а теперь и народу Ливана.
    Я много раз прямо говорил об этом.
    Пора освободить заложников. Пора сложить оружие. Пора положить конец страданиям, охватившим регион. Настало время мира, международного права и справедливости.
    Организация Объединенных Наций всецело привержена до-стижению этих целей.
    В разгар такого кровопролития и в условиях непримиримых разногласий мы должны сохранять надежду.
    Давайте почтим память погибших, воссоединим семьи и по-ложим конец страданиям и насилию на всем Ближнем Востоке.
    И не будем прекращать усилий, направленных на долгосроч-ное урегулирование конфликта, чтобы Израиль, Палестина и все другие страны региона смогли наконец жить в мире и достоин-стве, уважая друг друга.

    ***
    Hoy hace un año de los terribles sucesos ocurridos el 7 de octubre, el día en que Hamás perpetró en Israel un atentado terrorista a gran escala que causó la muerte a más de 1.250 ciudadanos israelíes y extranjeros, entre ellos niños, niñas y mujeres.
    Más de 250 personas fueron secuestradas y llevadas a Gaza, muchas de ellas mujeres, niñas y niños.
    El atentado del 7 de octubre dejó graves secuelas anímicas y, por eso, hoy recordamos a todas aquellas personas cuyas vidas cotidianas se vieron truncadas por una muerte brutal y por actos indescriptibles de violencia, incluida violencia sexual.
    En esta fecha, la comunidad mundial alza su voz para reiterar su absoluta condena de los abominables actos cometidos por Hamás, incluida la toma de rehenes.
    A lo largo del último año me he reunido con las familias de los rehenes… he podido conocer mejor la vida, las esperanzas y los sueños de sus seres queridos… y he compartido su angustia y dolor.
    Pero no puedo ni imaginar la tortura que tienen que soportar día tras día. Y exijo una vez más la liberación inmediata e incondicional de todos los rehenes.
    Hasta que llegue ese momento, Hamás debe permitir que el Comité Internacional de la Cruz Roja visite a los rehenes.
    El 7 de octubre es, naturalmente, una fecha para reflexionar sobre los sucesos de aquel espantoso día. Por mi parte, me solidarizo con todas las víctimas y sus seres queridos.
    Aquel 7 de octubre desencadenó una oleada de violencia y derramamiento de sangre de proporciones aterradoras.
    La guerra que siguió a los terribles atentados de hace un año sigue destrozando vidas e infligiendo un profundo sufrimiento a la población palestina de Gaza, y ahora también al pueblo del Líbano.
    A este respecto, me he expresado de forma muy clara y en numerosas ocasiones.
    Ya es hora de liberar a los rehenes; es hora de silenciar las armas; es hora de poner fin al sufrimiento que devora la región. Ha llegado la hora de la paz, el derecho internacional y la justicia.
    Las Naciones Unidas mantienen su pleno compromiso de lograr esos objetivos.
    En medio de tanta sangre derramada y tantas disensiones, hemos de aferrarnos a la esperanza.
    Honremos la memoria de las víctimas, reunamos a las familias y pongamos fin al sufrimiento y la violencia en todo Oriente Medio.
    Y tratemos sin descanso de alcanzar una solución duradera del conflicto que permita a Israel, Palestina y todos los otros países de la región vivir por fin en paz y con dignidad, respetándose mutuamente.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Could NZ foreign policy be Trumped? Why the government will be hoping Kamala Harris wins the US election

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Robert G. Patman, Professor of International Relations, University of Otago

    Getty Images

    One of the political ironies of the race for the White House is that the foreign policy interests of New Zealand’s centre-right government are probably best served by Democratic candidate Kamala Harris winning.

    Since the end of World War II, all New Zealand governments have supported multilateralism and an international rules-based order enshrined in the institutions of the United Nations.

    The relationship with the United States has reflected that, and tends to outlast the periodic fluctuations associated with changes in government and policy in Wellington or Washington.

    New Zealand’s current National-led coalition inherited close relations with the US, too. American visitor numbers were second only to Australians last year. The US is our third largest export market. And the two countries remain strategically linked within the Five Eyes intelligence sharing arrangement.

    Nevertheless, one of the key foreign policy goals of the coalition is to strengthen alignment with traditional allies such as the US. Given the very different worldviews of Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, the November 5 election will have a large bearing on how successful any push for closer relations with the US can be.

    Closer relations in the balance

    On the one hand, Republican candidate Trump is opposed to multilateral institutions, unless they explicitly serve US national interests. And he wants to reverse the impact of globalisation by constraining immigration, free trade and global governance.

    Nationalist slogans like “America First” promise a return to a so-called golden era of patriotism and sovereignty: a top-down world where the greatest power of all is unencumbered and free to assert its dominance.

    On the other hand, Harris would seem to support a more traditional US foreign policy agenda. This recognises the importance of international institutions and alliances in a world where “isolation is not insulation”.

    Whoever occupies the White House next, then, is likely to have a significant impact on New Zealand foreign policy.

    Isolation and dominance: Trump plays the immigration card at Republican National Convention in July 18.
    Getty Images

    Power plays and the Pacific

    First, Trump’s belief in an international system run by great powers would seem to be a recipe for depriving smaller states like New Zealand of a voice on international issues that affect them.

    Second, New Zealand’s regional focus on ties with Pacific Island nations – underpinned by close people-to-people links and a significant proportion of the country’s overseas development aid programme – is more likely to be complemented by a Harris foreign policy.

    Outgoing president Joe Biden reversed decades of US neglect of much of the Pacific, which had played to the advantage of other external powers – notably China.

    The Biden team launched the annual US-Pacific Islands Summit in 2022. And Kamala Harris played an active role in delivering US$800 million in development and climate assistance to Pacific Island nations in 2022-23.

    Whether Trump will maintain this enhanced diplomatic and economic engagement in the Pacific (and elsewhere) is questionable. Similarly, after Biden rejoined the Paris Climate Accord, Trump will probably quit it for a second time.

    Kamala Harris hosts Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House in September.
    Getty Images

    AUKUS and Ukraine

    Third, the New Zealand government faces the delicate task of navigating relations with an increasingly assertive China – the country’s biggest trade partner – while pursuing its goal of moving closer to the US.

    Since March 2023, successive New Zealand governments have been considering joining an arrangement to share advanced defence technologies under pillar two of the AUKUS security partnership that aims to deter a rising China in the Indo-Pacific region.

    It remains to be seen how China would react if New Zealand did join. But Trump’s insistence on US primacy in any multilateral agreement could make it more difficult for the government to win domestic support for pillar two membership.

    Even outside the AUKUS debate, Trump is more likely to insist allies spend more on defence than they did traditionally.

    Fourth, New Zealand has a big stake in the failure of Russia’s attempted annexation of Ukraine. Wellington’s interests are clearly more in line with Harris’ pledge to maintain support for Ukraine to restore its territorial integrity.

    Trump’s promise to end the war within 24 hours, on the other hand, could probably only be achieved by giving Vladimir Putin what he wants.

    The Middle East and the UN

    Finally, there do not seem to be substantive policy differences between Trump and Harris on the catastrophic situation in Gaza, and increasingly Lebanon.

    There remains a slim possibility a Harris administration might recognise unconditional support for the Israeli government of Benjamin Netanyahu is not sustainable for a superpower whose foreign policy is supposed to be driven by universal values and respect for international law.

    But this would be near impossible for Trump. Indeed, he would probably provide Netanyahu with even greater support.

    Overall, the foreign policy interests of the National-led coalition seem to align more with a Harris presidency than one led by Trump.

    But even if Harris wins, the alignment of interests will not be perfect. US exceptionalism – an informal ideology that claims the nation is a political exemplar for the rest of the world – and Washington’s veto power in the UN security Council are likely to remain constraining factors on the New Zealand-US relationship.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Could NZ foreign policy be Trumped? Why the government will be hoping Kamala Harris wins the US election – https://theconversation.com/could-nz-foreign-policy-be-trumped-why-the-government-will-be-hoping-kamala-harris-wins-the-us-election-240538

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Youths bark up wrong tree following aggravated burglary

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    A Police dog was quickly on the scent following an aggravated burglary in Māngere during the early hours of this morning.

    At about 2.55am, Police received a report of four people inside a Ford Courier Ute, which has driven into the roller door of a supermarket on Westney Road.

    Counties Manukau West Area Commander, Inspector Ross Ellwood, says the group has entered the store and taken a number of products, including cash, before unsuccessfully trying to access the cigarette cabinet.

    “The group has then fled in a stolen Toyota Mark X, which was quickly located by officers parked on Naylors Drive.

    “Delta has tracked to a house of the street, where four youths were taken into custody without incident.”

    Inspector Ellwood says Police will continue to respond to reports of businesses being targeted.

    “We know this sort of offending can be incredibly invasive for our community.

    “We take this type of offending very seriously, and I hope our quick response reassures the community that we have absolutely no tolerance for incidents like these.”

    Four teenagers, and 14 and 15, will appear in Manukau Youth Court today charged with unlawfully taking a motor vehicle and burglary.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Building a Green Future

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    On 7 October, UKRI will hold an event in Westminster showcasing projects that support the clean energy transition and the development of a sustainable green economy.

    Themes at the UKRI Building a Green Future Congress will include flooding, electricity generation, how to future proof the grid, making products last longer, recycling, remanufacture and reuse of medical technologies, solar power and solar waste, critical minerals, large-scale recycling for a circular economy, net zero buildings, e-waste, sustainable agriculture, and the financial cost of damage to the natural environment.

    Journalists came to this SMC briefing to hear some of the keynote speakers talk about where the problems lie, the potential solutions, and what the UK needs to do to reduce carbon emissions and improve the environment.

    Speakers included:

    Prof Louise Heathwaite, NERC Executive Chair and UKRI Building a Green Future theme SRO

    Prof Phil Taylor, Vice-Chancellor and President, and expert in energy systems, University of Bath

    Prof Peter Hopkinson, Co-Director of the Exeter Centre for the Circular Economy, University of Exeter

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Future-proofing State Highway 6, Rai Saddle in Marlborough

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    New resilience work will begin next week to help future-proof State Highway 6 on the Rai Saddle in Marlborough.

    Contractors will be on-site from Monday, 14 October, with work expected to continue until late November.

    Rob Service, System Manager Top of the South Island, says they will improve drainage and address under-slips by redirecting stormwater on three one-kilometre sections of the highway.

    “This will help mitigate the impact of bad weather and heavy rainfall on the highway between Nelson and Blenheim.”

    “Each section will be completed one at a time to reduce the impact on drivers, with crews starting at the top of the Rai Saddle and working their way down towards the Mt Richmond Estate Motels,” Mr Service says.

    He says contractors will install pipework, kerbs and barriers to redirect stormwater at each work site, which is critical in hillside areas like the Rai Saddle.

    “Making these improvements and increasing the highway’s resilience will help keep the road open in bad weather and help protect this critical state highway link between Nelson and Marlborough.”

    “It’s about making the highway stronger and better prepared for future disruption,” Mr Service says.

    During the work, one highway lane will remain open under stop/go temporary traffic management 24/7. A temporary speed limit of 30 km/h will also be in place. Road users can expect delays of up to five minutes.

    Mr Service says while the impact of this work on road users will be minimal, it’s important people with ferry connections or appointments plan ahead given other works currently underway on State Highway 6 between Nelson and Blenheim.

    “Allow yourself an extra 30 minutes to get over the hill to ensure you make your destination in time,” he says.

    The work on the Rai Saddle is funded by the Crown Resilience Programme, which is set up to cover the cost of resilience improvements on the state highway network and minimise damage from future weather events.

    Mr Service says two years ago, State Highway 6 had to be closed for major repairs following a major flood.

    “Locals know only too well how big an impact floods can have on their ability to get around. Investments like this can make a big difference,” Mr Service says.

    Works schedule

    • Stop/Go temporary traffic management and a temporary speed limit of 30km/h will be in place from Monday, 14 October to Friday, 22 November. 24/7.
    • No work on Labour Weekend (26-28 October) when the road will reopen to two lanes.
    • Work will be carried out on Marlborough Anniversary Day (Monday. 4 November).
    • There will be three, one-kilometre sections of work as part of this project. Each section will be completed one-at-a time.
    • Contractors will start at the top of the Rai Saddle and working their way down towards the Mt Richmond Estate Motels.
    • Expect delays of up to 5 minutes.

    Location

    More information

    • Resilience work is also underway on State Highway 63 as contractors increase the height of the road near the Wash Bridge. Other resilience work is also planned for State Highway 1 at Dashwood. More information about these projects will be shared before they get underway.
    • Crown Resilience Programme (formerly Transport Resilience Fund)

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Vital help passes pub test

    Source: Ministers for Social Services

    The pub test has been part of the Australian vernacular for… well, maybe since the Hope and Anchor opened in Hobart in 1807 and the first bloke to down a schooner regaled the room with his opinion.

    And we all know that alcohol can have a loosening effect on people speaking their mind, so since then pubs have probably seen enough opinions to fill 1000 Sydney Harbours.

    Today though, we use the “pub test” expression to mean what any reasonable person might think about a particular situation. What the average Australian may think is or isn’t a good idea.

    It’s been the question many a politician has asked themselves if trying to gauge the temperature of their electorate on tricky issues.

    Perhaps we could even update the term to be called the “hairdresser test”.

    Recently there has been a lot of talk about whether the supports and programs funded by the National Disability Insurance Scheme pass the pub test. I’ll be blunt. Some of them simply do not.

    Most people would tell me I was dreaming if I told them that tarot cards, clairvoyance, wilderness therapy, and cuddle therapy are among the things we had to specify were definitely not being funded by the taxpayer. Can you imagine those things being discussed in the front bar?

    And look, there are very few people on the scheme currently getting cuddle therapy, but we want to put certain therapies beyond all reasonable doubt.

    That is why I have released lists of what NDIS participants can and cannot spend their funding on.

    The lists, which came into effect from October 3, update current guidelines and practices and, importantly, provide much needed clarity and certainty to participants and providers.

    So, no more guessing. Participants will be able to identify what is appropriately funded by the NDIS, and what NDIS funding can be used to purchase.

    But I want to run through a few things the scheme has not and will not pay for.

    It will not pay a participant’s rent, rental bond, home deposit or mortgage. It will not pay for donations, tithes, gifts or political contributions. It will not pay for fines, penalties or court ordered amounts. It will not pay for spa baths, saunas, steam rooms.

    It will not pay for groceries in the ordinary course of events.

    I can’t state it any more clearly that the lists are about putting the rorting and the exploitation of grey areas by some unscrupulous providers behind us.

    This scheme is going to be run properly, transparently – and this is the most important part – in the best interests of participants.

    I want every cent designed to get positive outcomes for participants to go to the participant. Not find its way into the pocket of a dodgy provider.

    I want to stress that very few providers are directing NDIS funds towards iffy supports and services but there are some who think that a scientific or evidentiary basis for therapies is optional.

    It’s not.

    The lists are part of the amendments introduced under the Getting the NDIS Back on Track Bill No.1, which passed Parliament in August.

    These changes are the next key step in returning the NDIS to its original intent and improving the scheme experience for every participant.

    The lists were finalised after a significant month-long public consultation, with the Department of Social Services, which undertook the consultation, receiving 6180 survey responses, 919 email responses and 120 submissions from organisations and peak bodies.

    Importantly, there will be a transition period for the first year of the new NDIS supports lists to ensure participants aren’t penalised for simple mistakes.

    That transition period will not apply to things which are already unlawful to spend your NDIS money on now, including illicit drugs, sex workers and alcohol.

    And there is also a substitution list which will allow participants to request a replacement support in cases where a standard household item might be able to provide better outcomes and value.

    We know the NDIS is changing lives of participants and their loved ones.

    The NDIS helps young people such as Ken in WA who has Down syndrome, to go to work at Coles. Or Karan from Melbourne, blind and partially deaf, who accesses NDIS supports for assistive technology to live and work independently. While Koen from Sydney uses his NDIS supports to play and coach wheelchair basketball.

    The scheme also helps some short-statured people get modifications for their car so they can drive and live independently.

    I want to acknowledge at this point that many participants are feeling uncertain about these change but the supports being accessed by the vast majority of people will not be impacted by the revised lists which are based on existing guidance.

    The Australian people are fiercely protective of the NDIS, as they are of Medicare. But we must be mindful that we are using taxpayer’s money and we must use it as responsibly as possible.

    Since the lists were announced, around 95 per cent of comments about the news and correspondence I’ve received are very supportive of the changes.

    I hope our quest to make the NDIS fairer and more sustainable has passed the national pub test.

    “This scheme is going to be run properly, transparently, in the best interests of participants.”

    Originally published in The West Australian Monday 7 October 2024.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Syzran Oil Refinery Completes Installation of Main Equipment at Sulfur Production Unit

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The Syzran Oil Refinery, which is part of the Rosneft oil refining unit, has completed the installation of reactors, receivers and a gas afterburner at the elemental sulfur production unit. The new equipment was manufactured by Russian companies. The reactor is 12 meters high, weighs about 36 tons, and has a diameter of over 3.5 meters. The receiver is 13 meters high and weighs 14 tons.

    Rosneft is implementing a large-scale program to modernize its refineries in Russia. Since the start of the program, more than 900 billion rubles have already been invested, construction/reconstruction projects for 23 main installations and oil refining complexes have been completed, which has allowed the Company to significantly increase the output of gasoline and diesel fuel of the 5th class and fully meet the needs of the domestic market.

    The elemental sulfur production unit will allow the utilization of hydrogen sulfide-containing gas, which is formed in oil refining processes. The unit will use the Claus oxidation method. The technology will ensure the overall degree of hydrogen sulfide utilization at a level of at least 99.8%.

    The elemental sulfur production unit complex is being built at the Syzran Oil Refinery as part of a modernization program together with the FCC catalytic cracking complex facilities, the launch of which will allow the enterprise to significantly increase the production volumes of high-octane gasolines.

    Reference:

    JSC Syzran Oil Refinery produces a wide range of high-quality petroleum products – motor gasoline and diesel fuel of the highest ecological class, low-sulfur marine fuel RMLS 40 E II, liquefied hydrocarbon gases, petroleum bitumen, etc.

    The company continues to implement a large-scale modernization program with the aim of further increasing the depth of processing and the yield of light petroleum products, as well as the most efficient use of secondary processes to increase the output of high-margin petroleum products.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft December 29, 2022

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.rosneft.ru/press/nevs/item/213061/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Rosneft Opens Gas Filling Stations in Orenburg Region

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Rosneft, as part of the state program for the development of gas motor fuel, opened gas filling stations in the Orenburg region. The stations are equipped with domestically produced technological equipment.

    At automobile gas filling compressor stations (AGNKS), natural gas is supplied via a gas pipeline, then it is purified, dried and compressed in a compression module. The maximum capacity of the station is 17,000 m3 of gas per day.

    The filling stations were installed as part of the Vankor UTT investment program (part of Rosneft) and transferred to Bashneft-Retail for operation.

    CNG filling stations are designed to refuel vehicles with natural gas (methane). The advantages of using methane as a motor fuel are its environmental friendliness and increased engine life due to the absence of carbon deposits in the cylinders. The use of gas motor fuel can significantly reduce the cost of refueling vehicles and increase the efficiency of transport services.

    Reference:

    OOO Bashneft-Roznitsa is the retail network of Bashneft, comprising 541 filling stations in 15 regions of Russia. In 2022, three CNG filling stations were transferred to the management of OOO Bashneft-Roznitsa: one in Udmurtia and two CNG filling stations in the Orenburg region.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft December 30, 2022

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.rosneft.ru/press/nevs/item/213065/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Rosneft has published an atlas of Marine Mammals of Russia

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Rosneft, together with the non-governmental development institute Innopraktika, has published the atlas Marine Mammals of Russia as part of the series Ecological Atlases of the Seas of Russia.

    The ecological atlas introduces readers to marine mammals living in the inland waters and seas of Russia. The publication presents scientific data on 47 species of marine mammals found in the described waters. In addition, it contains information on the climatic and oceanographic features of the seas, the history of their study, problems of protecting marine mammals and the main methods of their study. The book provides an opportunity to obtain modern information on the features of biology, population structure, natural and anthropogenic threats to the described species. The publication contains more than 60 maps, unique artistic illustrations, and photographs from the Company’s expeditions.

    The atlas reflects the results of the Company’s long-term work on studying marine mammals – the polar bear and the walrus, which were carried out within the framework of the corporate program for the conservation of biological diversity. The goal of the program is to study and preserve the population of rare animal species, the state of which can be used to judge the balance of Arctic ecosystems. The results of the Company’s research can be found in a special section of the atlas.

    The atlas was developed by specialists from the Company’s Arctic Scientific Center and leading Russian scientific institutes: the P.P. Shirshov Institute of Oceanology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, the M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, the Pacific Institute of Oceanology of the Far Eastern Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, the Murmansk Marine Biological Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences, the All-Russian Research Institute of Fisheries and Oceanography, the All-Russian Research Institute for Environmental Protection, and the Marine Mammal Council.

    The publication “Marine Mammals of Russia” will be of interest not only to the professional community, but also to all those who are not indifferent to environmental issues.

    The atlas is available for free download:

    Atlas «Marine mammals of Russia“.

    Reference:

    The series “Ecological Atlases of the Seas of Russia” is a continuation of the series “Atlases of the Seas of the Russian Arctic” of the Arctic Research Center of Rosneft, within the framework of which in 2016-2017 the following publications were published: “Kara Sea”, “Laptev Sea” and “Marine Mammals of the Russian Arctic and Far East”.

    Rosneft and Innopraktika have already published the following publications within the series Ecological Atlases of the Seas of Russia: The Black and Azov Seas, Species – Biological Indicators of the State of Marine Arctic Ecosystems, and The Barents Sea. The atlases present up-to-date information on physical geography, oceanography, hydrometeorology, ecology, as well as on the distribution of marine mammals and birds, obtained as a result of Rosneft’s research activities in the Arctic. The international system of environmental sensitivity indices (ESI) was adapted for the sections devoted to the classification of sea coasts.

    In 2019, Rosneft, together with the non-governmental development institute Innopraktika, released a unique atlas, “Russian Arctic. Space, Time, Resources.”

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft December 29, 2022

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.rosneft.ru/press/nevs/item/213039/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: BLOG | Book captures the quirkiness and uniqueness of the 86 bus

    Source: City of Liverpool

    What do you get if you cross an artist-in-residence with the 86 bus? A relatable, heart-warming and humorous collection of observations and conversations that celebrate the beauty found in everyday interactions. Author Nicki McCubbing explains …

    From November 2023 to April 2024 as part of a ‘Listening’ residency with Metal, I sat (and stood) on the 86 bus recording what I heard, saw and smelt on my notes section on my phone. I also took photos through the windows and inside the bus on my phone. This was an ideal residency for me. I love watching people, eavesdropping and collecting stories for my own enjoyment and sometimes I make art out of it. I decided to write very succinct notes, inspired by Sophie Calle’s True Stories, to reflect the fleeting exchanges we have with strangers whilst on the bus. Metal’s idea for this project was to get to know the people in the Picton area and the best way to do this is to listen. To sit and really listen and notice all the small details was harder than I originally thought. Like most other passengers I was so used to zoning out, looking at my phone, or looking out of the window thinking of all the things I had to do.

    The 86 has been my bus route between the city centre and my different homes for over 25 years. As I’ve grown older, my relationship to the bus has changed. I was a student myself when I first rode the 86. Now I am old enough to be the students’ mum. I have seen many things in those years on the 86 including a girl’s hair being set on fire, several fights and an old woman flashing the bus by lifting up her skirt. As I started this listening residency though, I realised that the smaller observations like people’s clothes and conversations and what was in their bags were what formed a more rounded picture of this community. 

    The bus route is unique in Liverpool as it includes so many different areas and people – different ages, from different places with different concerns, beliefs and experiences – all riding together on the same bus. It is important that ordinary people see themselves in art and I have tried to capture the many people riding on this bus with love and humour. Riding the bus has this strange mix of being together and separate which can often create its own unique type of poetic sadness.

    It was hard to know when to stop collecting these observations as there was always a new insight and I started to find beauty and value in almost every journey. I rode the bus during the day and night and eventually I had more than 200 notes and 300 photos which I then had to piece together. I chose to illustrate a variety of people who were representative of the area, all remaining anonymous. Sometimes I wrote notes about how I felt on the bus too. I feel like the observations on their own often reveal quite a lot about me in the fact that I have noticed them, maybe other people would notice something completely different. Everybody’s experience is different because we are all different.

    I’m really thrilled with the final book – I feel it captures the bus route during this specific point in time. It is small and can fit in a pocket, perfect for carrying on the bus. I hope that readers will find the book humorous and recognise some elements of themselves in the writing and how they too, encounter people. I would like readers to see that we are constantly around strangers all going through all different experiences that we don’t know about and that there can be intrigue, beauty and humour in the everyday, even on the bus.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Commemorating victims of 7 October attacks

    Source: Scottish Government

    First Minister expresses sympathy as he calls for peace.

    First Minister John Swinney expressed his sympathy to the Jewish community as he remembers all those who lost their lives in the Hamas 7 October terror attacks a year ago.

    Since the attacks, the Scottish Government has consistently called for the immediate release of all hostages, a ceasefire in Gaza, the urgent provision of humanitarian aid to all who need it, and a two-state solution with sovereign Israeli and Palestinian states.

    The First Minister said:

    “The atrocious attacks carried out by the terrorist organisation, Hamas, on 7 October resulted in the worst single loss of Jewish life since the Holocaust. Jewish communities across the world, including here in Scotland, are deeply traumatised by the attacks,

    “As we remember those who died, I express my sympathy to the Jewish community and all those who mourn. 

    “I also remember the thousands of innocent people who have been killed in the crisis over the last year. Now more than ever, an immediate ceasefire is needed in Gaza, and the Middle East.

    “As communities across Scotland reflect on the 7 October terrorist attacks and the subsequent loss of further innocent life that has followed, I pledge the unwavering support of my government to ensure our communities remain united, that all communities are kept safe and that we live in a Scotland where people of all faiths, and none, can live in peace.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Rosneft Holds an IT-Marathon

    Source: Rosneft

    Headline: Rosneft Holds an IT-Marathon

    Moscow saw the finals of Rosneft IT-Marathon which is the biggest in Russia. The organizers and winners of the hackathons* presented their best solutions to experts from leading Russian companies and universities.

    Digitalization of business processes is one of the key objectives of Rosneft-2030 Strategy. The Company is persistently introducing advanced technological solutions to analyze large amounts of data for improving the efficiency in all its business areas. Specialized IT-Marathons help Rosneft address real operational tasks in co-operation with high-skilled people.

    In 2022 RN-BashNIPIneft Research Institute held four contests for students and IT specialists with a total of more than 2,300 people participating. This is twice as many as in 2021. The geography of the participants covers more than 130 cities and 12 countries.

    The priority of the IT-Marathon is to address problems using advanced digital technologies and artificial intelligence tools. The solutions gained at the contest are integrated into Rosneft software used for hydrocarbon exploration and production.

    As part of the country universities hackathon, its participants were doing correlation and cluster data analysis and making machine learning models. The obtained solutions will be used for making geological models and identifying methods of oil production. Daniil Raspopin, the winner of the hackathon from Kursk, got a job offer from RN-BashNIPIneft, and so now he is involved in the institute’s projects of data analysis and machine learning.

    Participants of the hackathon for robotics programmers were solving a task of robotizing the study of core, – which means “samples of rock”. The best approaches and methods used for solving this task are now planned to be employed in the modernization project of RN-BashNIPIneft laboratory complex.

    This year the tasks of the two biggest IT-Marathon contests – Rosneft Challenge I and Rosneft Challenge II – were around the subject of oilfield development optimization. Their first task was about predicting electrical submersible pump failures, and the second task was about optimizing well operations. The solutions presented by the participants will be used in the high-tech software line developed in the Company.

    Details about the IT-Marathon are available at: https://events.rn.digital/

    *Hackathon is a competition at which specialists from different software development areas together solve some problem for time.

    Note:

    RN-BashNIPIneft LLC is the Rosneft largest research and design institute and a center of the Company’s high-tech corporate software development.

    Rosneft
    Information Division
    December 5, 2022

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: First Minister confirms awards from Marine Fund Scotland

    Source: Scottish Government

    £14 million for marine industries and coastal and island communities in 2024/25.

    First Minister John Swinney has confirmed that 67 projects will share a total of £14 million in support from the latest round of Marine Fund Scotland.

    The First Minister made the announcement in Shetland, where this morning he will tour Lerwick’s daily electronic fish auction and meet the Shetland Fishermen’s Association before attending the Convention of the Highlands and Islands.

    This year’s awards include seven to Shetland-based projects, including support for a new fisher from Scalloway to help secure a vessel to enter the industry, along with grants for Blueshell Mussels in Brae to enhance its mussel-growing process and to Cooke Aquaculture to trial an innovative water-borne feeding system.

    Other awards to island-based businesses include for Vonin Scotland to help establish a net service station for the aquaculture sector at Kyleakin on Skye, initially creating 15 new jobs. This project means nets will now only need to be transported a short distance by boat rather than via an extended road journey to the Central Belt, reducing CO2 emissions, and will improve recycling rates of nets preventing material ending up in landfill or incineration.  

    First Minister John Swinney said:

    “Our island and coastal communities and the marine industries based here make a huge contribution to Scotland – not just to our economy but also to our efforts to drive innovation and sustainability.

    “I’m very pleased therefore to be here in Shetland to confirm these awards to a wide range of projects, all of which have demonstrated that they will help to drive innovation in the marine sector and help sustain coastal communities.

    “Over the last four years, Marine Fund Scotland has supported hundreds of pioneering projects that are already contributing to building prosperity whilst at the same time protecting the planet.”

    The First Minister is also expected to visit Scottish Sea Farms salmon processing facilities later before meeting Lerwick Port Authority leadership.  

    Sectors receiving support include sea fisheries; aquaculture; seafood processing; wild fisheries including wild salmon; projects that tackle marine litter and improve recycling; and the wider marine environment. Applicants are assessed against strict eligibility criteria including alignment with Scotland’s Blue Economy Vision.

    David Brown, Shetland Regional Manager at Cooke Scotland, said: “We are grateful for the grant assistance which will enable us to trial and develop a new waterborne feed delivery method where rural communities such as Shetland can continue feeding the world with premium Scottish salmon.

    “The health and welfare of our fish is a top priority and the project aims to enhance their wellbeing by encouraging the salmon to feed lower down in the pens, minimising the impact from environmental challenges and wildlife, as well as reducing our energy consumption and ensuring the durability of our feed pipes.”

    Background

    Marine Fund Scotland

    List of 2024/25 awards

    Blue Economy Vision

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Rosneft Holds an IT-Marathon

    Source: Rosneft

    Headline: Rosneft Holds an IT-Marathon

    Moscow saw the finals of Rosneft IT-Marathon which is the biggest in Russia. The organizers and winners of the hackathons* presented their best solutions to experts from leading Russian companies and universities.

    Digitalization of business processes is one of the key objectives of Rosneft-2030 Strategy. The Company is persistently introducing advanced technological solutions to analyze large amounts of data for improving the efficiency in all its business areas. Specialized IT-Marathons help Rosneft address real operational tasks in co-operation with high-skilled people.

    In 2022 RN-BashNIPIneft Research Institute held four contests for students and IT specialists with a total of more than 2,300 people participating. This is twice as many as in 2021. The geography of the participants covers more than 130 cities and 12 countries.

    The priority of the IT-Marathon is to address problems using advanced digital technologies and artificial intelligence tools. The solutions gained at the contest are integrated into Rosneft software used for hydrocarbon exploration and production.

    As part of the country universities hackathon, its participants were doing correlation and cluster data analysis and making machine learning models. The obtained solutions will be used for making geological models and identifying methods of oil production. Daniil Raspopin, the winner of the hackathon from Kursk, got a job offer from RN-BashNIPIneft, and so now he is involved in the institute’s projects of data analysis and machine learning.

    Participants of the hackathon for robotics programmers were solving a task of robotizing the study of core, – which means “samples of rock”. The best approaches and methods used for solving this task are now planned to be employed in the modernization project of RN-BashNIPIneft laboratory complex.

    This year the tasks of the two biggest IT-Marathon contests – Rosneft Challenge I and Rosneft Challenge II – were around the subject of oilfield development optimization. Their first task was about predicting electrical submersible pump failures, and the second task was about optimizing well operations. The solutions presented by the participants will be used in the high-tech software line developed in the Company.

    Details about the IT-Marathon are available at: https://events.rn.digital/

    *Hackathon is a competition at which specialists from different software development areas together solve some problem for time.

    Note:

    RN-BashNIPIneft LLC is the Rosneft largest research and design institute and a center of the Company’s high-tech corporate software development.

    Rosneft
    Information Division
    December 5, 2022

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: 4th Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum brings together executives of major companies, government officials and industry experts

    Source: Rosneft

    Headline: 4th Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum brings together executives of major companies, government officials and industry experts

    Government officials from the Russian Federation and the People’s Republic of China and executives from over 100 major Russian and Chinese companies have attended the 4th Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum.

    The reports on the development of energy cooperation between the two countries at the Forum were presented by Igor Sechin, Executive Secretary of the Commission for the President of the Russian Federation on the strategy of development of the fuel and energy industry and environmental safety, Chief Executive Officer of Rosneft Oil Company; Alexander Novak, Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation; Han Zheng, Vice Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China; Dai Houliang, Chairman of the CNPC Board of Directors; CEOs of Russian and Chinese companies. The Forum was also attended by ministers and government officials from the two countries, as well as representatives of the scientific community.

    The strong participation once again confirmed the RCEBF’s status as the most important platform for shaping the key areas of energy dialogue between Russia and China.

    The Forum was held in a face-to-face distance format at two venues in Moscow and Beijing, with a video bridge between them.

    UPWARD DEVELOPMENT

    President Vladimir Putin of the Russian Federation and President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China sent greetings to the Forum participants, in which they noted the positive dynamics of the development of Russian-Chinese energy cooperation.

    In particular, Vladimir Putin noted in his address that, despite the complexity of the international situation, relations between the Russian Federation and the People’s Republic of China continue to develop in an upward direction. The energy sector remains one of the key and most dynamic areas of economic cooperation between the two countries.

    “The Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum plays an increasingly prominent role in expanding cooperation in such an important sector, facilitating regular dialogue between representatives of government agencies, leading industry corporations, banking institutions and expert circles of the two countries. One of the Forum’s most vital activities is the creation of the “Atlas of Russian-Chinese Energy Cooperation Investments”. There is no doubt that the development of this unique information and analysis platform opens up new opportunities for mutually beneficial commercial initiatives,” reads the address of the Russian President.

    CORNERSTONE OF CHINA-RUSSIA COOPERATION

    In his welcoming address to the Forum, China’s President Xi Jinping declared energy to be the cornerstone of cooperation between China and Russia.

    According to the PRC President, Beijing intends to build a closer partnership with Moscow in the energy sector. “The energy engagement between China and Russia is a cornerstone of practical cooperation between the two countries and also serves as an effective force for global energy security,” reads Xi Jinping’s address.

    Russia and China’s energy cooperation demonstrates sustainability despite external challenges, the PRC President said.

    “In the face of external risks and challenges, Russia and China are intensifying interaction and coordination, promoting major cooperation projects, demonstrating the high sustainability of Russian-Chinese energy cooperation,” reads Xi Jinping’s address.

    UNIQUE OPPORTUNITIES

    Igor Sechin, Executive Secretary of the Commission for the President of the Russian Federation on the strategy of development of the fuel and energy industry and environmental safety, Chief Executive Officer of Rosneft Oil Company, delivered an address at the opening of the 4th Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum devoted to the development of the energy dialogue between the two countries.

    By the end of this year, the trade turnover between Russia and China may reach $180-190 billion, Rosneft CEO believes. According to him, the figure has already reached $153.9 billion in ten months.

    Thus, Igor Sechin added, the goal of reaching $200 billion in trade turnover may be achieved even earlier than in 2024, as previously planned.

    Igor Sechin noted that Xi Jingping’s 2015 proposal at the rostrum of the UN to create a “community of one destiny for the humankind”, which underlay Chinese foreign policy (as part of the preamble to China’s Constitution), was a worthy response to the challenges of the growing turbulence. “The Western opponents cannot or do not want to understand the great humanitarian meaning of this idea, rejecting the concept of common destiny because of certain ideological considerations,” Igor Sechin believes. “They do not want to understand that it is not about a uniformity, which is naturally alien to the Chinese cultural tradition.” “All phenomena develop together and do not impede one another, all principles are effected together and do not contradict one another,” says a Chinese wisdom. “China simply tells the world: “We are all in the same boat.” And it turns out that China is working to unite humanity, while the West is working to divide it,” Igor Sechin said.

    Rosneft CEO noted that China, like Russia, had always been against unilateral sanctions and economic pressure, which turned into selfish promotion of one’s own selfish interests, and had always advocated the universal and equal application of international law. “Nevertheless, we see that the PRC is subjected to commercial discrimination. The goal is openly set to stop China’s technological development and prevent China from becoming the Number 1 technological power,” the head of Rosneft believes. No wonder the 20th CPC Congress has paid so much attention to security, which is becoming a political priority.

    Rosneft CEO emphasised the unique opportunities that the cooperation offers in terms of ensuring China’s and Russia’s economic security in sensitive areas. “In the field of resource supply, including energy resources, Russia is a reliable supplier with a huge potential that is capable of expanding. As for production and technological logistics, our partnership here seems to be the most protected in terms of security,” Igor Sechin said.

    Russian energy companies, Sechin said, were ready to cooperate with Chinese partners in all areas—“in coal, in gas, in oil, in electricity and through Rosatom.”

    Rosneft CEO noted that the Company had always promoted integral cooperation with Chinese partners along the entire technological chain: that is exploration and production, refining, power generation, sales at potential markets, including retail sales. “As a rule, such cooperation implies exchange of shares, setup of joint ventures, supply of equipment, and technological partnership,” he said.

    POTENTIAL FOR GROWTH IN ENERGY EXPORTS

    Russia’s oil exports to China in January-October 2022 increased by 9.5% year-on-year to reach almost 72 million tonnes. This put Russia in second place among the suppliers of this fuel to Beijing, only slightly behind Saudi Arabia (73.8 million tonnes), Igor Sechin said.

    For his part, Russia’s Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak acknowledged the possibility of building new oil pipelines to China.

    Rosneft CEO also reminded the audience about the Vostok Oil project that “would provide long-term, reliable, and guaranteed energy supplies to Asia’s growing economies.” The project should produce 115 million tonnes of oil by 2033, equivalent to 2.5% of current world production.

    Russia also retains great potential for increasing hydrocarbon exports. For example, Sechin estimates that Rosneft alone has more than 2 trillion cubic metres of gas reserves in Eastern Siberia and the Far East that could be delivered to China.

    According to Igor Sechin, Russian pipeline gas deliveries could increase by 60% this year. The figure will exceed 100 billion cubic metres a year in the foreseeable future, and Rosneft CEO is confident that this is not even the limit.

    Executive Secretary of the Presidential Commission on the strategy of development of the fuel and energy industry Igor Sechin noted the prospects for liquefied natural gas: “Today Russia exports to China relatively small volumes of LNG, but in the future, the volume of LNG supplies may become comparable to our supplies from pipeline projects.”

    For his part, China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) Chairman Dai Houliang pointed to the importance of proper operation of oil pipelines from Russia to China and the Yamal LNG project, in which CNPC has a stake.

    “The implementation of the Sino-Russian gas pipeline through the Far East route and the Arctic LNG-2 project should also be accelerated,” he added.

    Furthermore, according to Igor Sechin, Russia accounts for almost a quarter of China’s coal imports—53 million tonnes in the first ten months of this year. Only Indonesia supplies more coal to the PRC.

    China buys from Russia not only hydrocarbons, but also electricity. Between January and October, its supplies grew by 33% and set a new record.

    SETTLEMENTS IN NATIONAL CURRENCIES

    As Alexander Novak noted, Russia and China were switching to settlements in national currencies when trading energy resources: “This work helps to prevent risks and facilitate the transformation of the rouble and yuan to the status of world reserve currencies.” In addition, the two countries’ central banks are working on a settlement system outside SWIFT.

    A significant step in the development of settlement in national currencies was Rosneft’s 2022 placement of an issue of bonds in yuan totalling 15 billion. According to bank analysts, this was the largest corporate bond market placement in the Russian market ever.

    Executive Secretary of the Presidential Commission on the strategy of development of the fuel and energy industry Igor Sechin noted that settlements under foreign economic contracts, primarily for the supply of energy products, had been promptly adapted to the new conditions. “I consider it important to develop clearing payments between China and Russia, which could then be joined by other interested countries (EAEU, SCO, BRICS). The existence of an independent settlement system is an important component of financial sovereignty in the contemporary world,” the head of Rosneft said.

    INVESTMENT ATLAS

    A significant contribution to the development of energy cooperation between the two countries was the publication of the Atlas of Russian-Chinese Energy Cooperation Investments. This document is a comprehensive and practical guide to the implementation of joint projects. Its first part, presented at the previous Forum by the Russian side, was devoted to a review of the current state and prospects of development of the fuel and energy complex of the Russian Federation.

    During the 4th Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum, Zhang Jianhua, Head of the State Energy Administration of the People’s Republic of China, gave a presentation on the Chinese part of the Atlas.

    The Forum brought together over 300 representatives of major Russian and Chinese companies in the oil and gas, power, coal, nuclear and renewable energy sectors, heads of federal executive authorities, power equipment manufacturers, and representatives of the financial and IT sectors. The participants discussed in detail the key issues of bilateral cooperation in the energy sector. On the sidelines of the Forum, contracts were discussed and concluded between Russian and Chinese partners on energy supply, technology development, joint research, personnel training, and involvement of Chinese companies in the procurement of goods, works and services for projects implemented in Russia.

    The Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum has been held since 2018, in line with the agreements reached by President Vladimir Putin of the Russian Federation and President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China. The two leaders outlined the main objective of the Forum, that is to expand cooperation, find new areas for investment and implement promising projects in the energy sphere in Russia and China.

    Since its inception, the Forum takes place under the auspices of the Commission for the President of the Russian Federation on the strategy of development of the fuel and energy industry and environmental safety and the State Energy Administration of the People’s Republic of China, and is co-organised by Rosneft and China National Petroleum Corporation.

    Rosneft
    Information Division
    November 29, 2022

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: 4th Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum brings together executives of major companies, government officials and industry experts

    Source: Rosneft

    Headline: 4th Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum brings together executives of major companies, government officials and industry experts

    Government officials from the Russian Federation and the People’s Republic of China and executives from over 100 major Russian and Chinese companies have attended the 4th Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum.

    The reports on the development of energy cooperation between the two countries at the Forum were presented by Igor Sechin, Executive Secretary of the Commission for the President of the Russian Federation on the strategy of development of the fuel and energy industry and environmental safety, Chief Executive Officer of Rosneft Oil Company; Alexander Novak, Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation; Han Zheng, Vice Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China; Dai Houliang, Chairman of the CNPC Board of Directors; CEOs of Russian and Chinese companies. The Forum was also attended by ministers and government officials from the two countries, as well as representatives of the scientific community.

    The strong participation once again confirmed the RCEBF’s status as the most important platform for shaping the key areas of energy dialogue between Russia and China.

    The Forum was held in a face-to-face distance format at two venues in Moscow and Beijing, with a video bridge between them.

    UPWARD DEVELOPMENT

    President Vladimir Putin of the Russian Federation and President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China sent greetings to the Forum participants, in which they noted the positive dynamics of the development of Russian-Chinese energy cooperation.

    In particular, Vladimir Putin noted in his address that, despite the complexity of the international situation, relations between the Russian Federation and the People’s Republic of China continue to develop in an upward direction. The energy sector remains one of the key and most dynamic areas of economic cooperation between the two countries.

    “The Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum plays an increasingly prominent role in expanding cooperation in such an important sector, facilitating regular dialogue between representatives of government agencies, leading industry corporations, banking institutions and expert circles of the two countries. One of the Forum’s most vital activities is the creation of the “Atlas of Russian-Chinese Energy Cooperation Investments”. There is no doubt that the development of this unique information and analysis platform opens up new opportunities for mutually beneficial commercial initiatives,” reads the address of the Russian President.

    CORNERSTONE OF CHINA-RUSSIA COOPERATION

    In his welcoming address to the Forum, China’s President Xi Jinping declared energy to be the cornerstone of cooperation between China and Russia.

    According to the PRC President, Beijing intends to build a closer partnership with Moscow in the energy sector. “The energy engagement between China and Russia is a cornerstone of practical cooperation between the two countries and also serves as an effective force for global energy security,” reads Xi Jinping’s address.

    Russia and China’s energy cooperation demonstrates sustainability despite external challenges, the PRC President said.

    “In the face of external risks and challenges, Russia and China are intensifying interaction and coordination, promoting major cooperation projects, demonstrating the high sustainability of Russian-Chinese energy cooperation,” reads Xi Jinping’s address.

    UNIQUE OPPORTUNITIES

    Igor Sechin, Executive Secretary of the Commission for the President of the Russian Federation on the strategy of development of the fuel and energy industry and environmental safety, Chief Executive Officer of Rosneft Oil Company, delivered an address at the opening of the 4th Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum devoted to the development of the energy dialogue between the two countries.

    By the end of this year, the trade turnover between Russia and China may reach $180-190 billion, Rosneft CEO believes. According to him, the figure has already reached $153.9 billion in ten months.

    Thus, Igor Sechin added, the goal of reaching $200 billion in trade turnover may be achieved even earlier than in 2024, as previously planned.

    Igor Sechin noted that Xi Jingping’s 2015 proposal at the rostrum of the UN to create a “community of one destiny for the humankind”, which underlay Chinese foreign policy (as part of the preamble to China’s Constitution), was a worthy response to the challenges of the growing turbulence. “The Western opponents cannot or do not want to understand the great humanitarian meaning of this idea, rejecting the concept of common destiny because of certain ideological considerations,” Igor Sechin believes. “They do not want to understand that it is not about a uniformity, which is naturally alien to the Chinese cultural tradition.” “All phenomena develop together and do not impede one another, all principles are effected together and do not contradict one another,” says a Chinese wisdom. “China simply tells the world: “We are all in the same boat.” And it turns out that China is working to unite humanity, while the West is working to divide it,” Igor Sechin said.

    Rosneft CEO noted that China, like Russia, had always been against unilateral sanctions and economic pressure, which turned into selfish promotion of one’s own selfish interests, and had always advocated the universal and equal application of international law. “Nevertheless, we see that the PRC is subjected to commercial discrimination. The goal is openly set to stop China’s technological development and prevent China from becoming the Number 1 technological power,” the head of Rosneft believes. No wonder the 20th CPC Congress has paid so much attention to security, which is becoming a political priority.

    Rosneft CEO emphasised the unique opportunities that the cooperation offers in terms of ensuring China’s and Russia’s economic security in sensitive areas. “In the field of resource supply, including energy resources, Russia is a reliable supplier with a huge potential that is capable of expanding. As for production and technological logistics, our partnership here seems to be the most protected in terms of security,” Igor Sechin said.

    Russian energy companies, Sechin said, were ready to cooperate with Chinese partners in all areas—“in coal, in gas, in oil, in electricity and through Rosatom.”

    Rosneft CEO noted that the Company had always promoted integral cooperation with Chinese partners along the entire technological chain: that is exploration and production, refining, power generation, sales at potential markets, including retail sales. “As a rule, such cooperation implies exchange of shares, setup of joint ventures, supply of equipment, and technological partnership,” he said.

    POTENTIAL FOR GROWTH IN ENERGY EXPORTS

    Russia’s oil exports to China in January-October 2022 increased by 9.5% year-on-year to reach almost 72 million tonnes. This put Russia in second place among the suppliers of this fuel to Beijing, only slightly behind Saudi Arabia (73.8 million tonnes), Igor Sechin said.

    For his part, Russia’s Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak acknowledged the possibility of building new oil pipelines to China.

    Rosneft CEO also reminded the audience about the Vostok Oil project that “would provide long-term, reliable, and guaranteed energy supplies to Asia’s growing economies.” The project should produce 115 million tonnes of oil by 2033, equivalent to 2.5% of current world production.

    Russia also retains great potential for increasing hydrocarbon exports. For example, Sechin estimates that Rosneft alone has more than 2 trillion cubic metres of gas reserves in Eastern Siberia and the Far East that could be delivered to China.

    According to Igor Sechin, Russian pipeline gas deliveries could increase by 60% this year. The figure will exceed 100 billion cubic metres a year in the foreseeable future, and Rosneft CEO is confident that this is not even the limit.

    Executive Secretary of the Presidential Commission on the strategy of development of the fuel and energy industry Igor Sechin noted the prospects for liquefied natural gas: “Today Russia exports to China relatively small volumes of LNG, but in the future, the volume of LNG supplies may become comparable to our supplies from pipeline projects.”

    For his part, China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) Chairman Dai Houliang pointed to the importance of proper operation of oil pipelines from Russia to China and the Yamal LNG project, in which CNPC has a stake.

    “The implementation of the Sino-Russian gas pipeline through the Far East route and the Arctic LNG-2 project should also be accelerated,” he added.

    Furthermore, according to Igor Sechin, Russia accounts for almost a quarter of China’s coal imports—53 million tonnes in the first ten months of this year. Only Indonesia supplies more coal to the PRC.

    China buys from Russia not only hydrocarbons, but also electricity. Between January and October, its supplies grew by 33% and set a new record.

    SETTLEMENTS IN NATIONAL CURRENCIES

    As Alexander Novak noted, Russia and China were switching to settlements in national currencies when trading energy resources: “This work helps to prevent risks and facilitate the transformation of the rouble and yuan to the status of world reserve currencies.” In addition, the two countries’ central banks are working on a settlement system outside SWIFT.

    A significant step in the development of settlement in national currencies was Rosneft’s 2022 placement of an issue of bonds in yuan totalling 15 billion. According to bank analysts, this was the largest corporate bond market placement in the Russian market ever.

    Executive Secretary of the Presidential Commission on the strategy of development of the fuel and energy industry Igor Sechin noted that settlements under foreign economic contracts, primarily for the supply of energy products, had been promptly adapted to the new conditions. “I consider it important to develop clearing payments between China and Russia, which could then be joined by other interested countries (EAEU, SCO, BRICS). The existence of an independent settlement system is an important component of financial sovereignty in the contemporary world,” the head of Rosneft said.

    INVESTMENT ATLAS

    A significant contribution to the development of energy cooperation between the two countries was the publication of the Atlas of Russian-Chinese Energy Cooperation Investments. This document is a comprehensive and practical guide to the implementation of joint projects. Its first part, presented at the previous Forum by the Russian side, was devoted to a review of the current state and prospects of development of the fuel and energy complex of the Russian Federation.

    During the 4th Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum, Zhang Jianhua, Head of the State Energy Administration of the People’s Republic of China, gave a presentation on the Chinese part of the Atlas.

    The Forum brought together over 300 representatives of major Russian and Chinese companies in the oil and gas, power, coal, nuclear and renewable energy sectors, heads of federal executive authorities, power equipment manufacturers, and representatives of the financial and IT sectors. The participants discussed in detail the key issues of bilateral cooperation in the energy sector. On the sidelines of the Forum, contracts were discussed and concluded between Russian and Chinese partners on energy supply, technology development, joint research, personnel training, and involvement of Chinese companies in the procurement of goods, works and services for projects implemented in Russia.

    The Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum has been held since 2018, in line with the agreements reached by President Vladimir Putin of the Russian Federation and President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China. The two leaders outlined the main objective of the Forum, that is to expand cooperation, find new areas for investment and implement promising projects in the energy sphere in Russia and China.

    Since its inception, the Forum takes place under the auspices of the Commission for the President of the Russian Federation on the strategy of development of the fuel and energy industry and environmental safety and the State Energy Administration of the People’s Republic of China, and is co-organised by Rosneft and China National Petroleum Corporation.

    Rosneft
    Information Division
    November 29, 2022

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Update: Serious crash, State Highway 2, Waipawa

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    One person has died following a crash on State Highway 2 near Waipawa in Central Hawke’s Bay this morning.

    The single vehicle crash was reported to Police at 10.15am.

    Two other people suffered moderate injuries and were transported to Hawke’s Bay Hospital.

    The Serious Crash Unit is in attendance and State Highway 2 is expected to remain closed for some time.

    Southbound traffic is being diverted at Higginson Road, and northbound traffic at Racecourse Road.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Rosneft sets the vector for development of the oil and gas chemical complex

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Rosneft held the 15th Scientific and Practical Conference “Current Tasks of the Petrochemical Complex” in Moscow. The event brought together more than 800 representatives of industrial, research and design enterprises of Russia, specialized associations, the Ministry of Energy, analytical and consulting agencies. The conference was organized by the corporate research and design institute OAO VNIPIneft.

    The conference delegates examined the current state of the industry, the prospects and possibilities for import substitution of the main processes of oil refining and petrochemistry, as well as the need to create a single mechanism that would consolidate the capabilities of science, business and production to solve the problems facing the country in achieving technological independence.

    The speakers spoke about unique experience in import substitution of catalysts, technological solutions in the production of fuels for the Arctic region, innovative approaches to the processing of heavy oil feedstock and successful projects for the implementation of digital twins in production. The experts also shared their experience in implementing projects in the field of production of basic petrochemical products and low-tonnage chemical processes. An interesting discussion took place on the strategy for developing engineering for the implementation of domestic technologies.

    Particular attention was paid to environmental issues and reducing the impact of production on the environment, outlined in the Rosneft-2030 strategy. Experts analyzed the sources of carbon dioxide emissions at oil refineries and identified the most promising ones in terms of volumes of emissions and monetization of processed and concentrated products. In particular, supercritical deasphalting technology was proposed for consideration, allowing for the efficient processing and utilization of oil sludge generated at oil production and refining facilities.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft December 21, 2022

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.rosneft.ru/press/nevs/item/212963/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Rosneft has discovered a large oil and gas condensate field in Yakutia

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The Taas-Yuryakh Neftegazodobycha company, which is part of the oil and gas production complex of NK Rosneft, has discovered a large oil and gas condensate field in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia). More than 9.5 billion m3 of gas and more than 1.5 million tons of oil have been placed on the balance sheet of the State Reserves Commission. The new field is called Kubalakhskoye.

    Improving the efficiency of reserve replenishment is one of the key elements of the Rosneft-2030 Strategy. The company plans to replenish at least 100% of the hydrocarbons produced.

    The Kubalakhskoye field is located in close proximity to the Srednebotuobinskoye field, which is also being industrially developed by Taas-Yuryakh Neftegazodobycha. The use of the associated infrastructure will increase the efficiency of the development of the Kubalakhskoye field reserves.

    The results of drilling the 1P Kubalakhskaya well allowed not only to discover a new deposit, but also determined the further scope of geological exploration work in this region. Drilling of 4 exploration wells is already planned to study the territory.

    Rosneft, through its subsidiary Taas-Yuryakh Neftegazodobycha, is carrying out large-scale geological exploration work in the Republic of Sakha. High efficiency of geological exploration work (five fields have been discovered in three years) is achieved through the use of innovative technologies, an integrated approach to geological exploration work, and effective interaction between geologists from Taas-Yuryakh Neftegazodobycha and RN-Exploration and specialists from the RN-KrasnoyarskNIPIneft Institute (part of Rosneft).

    Reference:

    Taas-Yuryakh Neftegazodobycha operates in 11 license areas located in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia). The company is developing the Central Block and the Kurungsky license area of the Srednebotuobinskoye oil and gas condensate field, which is one of Rosneft’s largest assets in Eastern Siberia.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft December 22, 2022

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.rosneft.ru/press/nevs/item/212971/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Rosneft Improves Methods of Enhanced Oil Recovery

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Specialists from the Tyumen Oil Research Center (part of the Rosneft research and design unit) have developed a software module called RN-Gas MUN* to assess the effectiveness of gas methods for increasing oil recovery. The new science-intensive IT product uses analytical calculations to make an express assessment of the potential effect of gas injection into the formation.

    Digitalization in all areas of activity is one of the key elements of the Rosneft-2030 Strategy. The emphasis on the implementation of digital technologies allows for increased efficiency and speed of decision-making throughout the Company’s production chain.

    The use of gas methods is relevant both for increasing oil recovery and for intensifying production, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and utilizing associated petroleum gas. The emphasis on developing proprietary technologies and software tools for predicting the efficiency of gas EOR allows the Company to make the most rational design decisions in the shortest possible time.

    The software module “RN-Gas MUN” evaluates the results of gas impact and determines the efficiency of production using key geological and physical parameters of the studied formation. In a matter of seconds, the program performs an express assessment of geological, technological and infrastructural risks of using gas methods, carries out a preliminary technical and economic calculation of the efficiency of using various technologies for pumping associated petroleum gas and CO2, taking into account the geological features of operational facilities.

    Calculations for ten Company facilities that are promising for the application of the technology have shown that the potential increase in the oil recovery factor from the introduction of gas EOR in terms of total additional production is 238 million tons, which is comparable to the discovery of a new large oil field. Practical application of “RN-Gas EOR” in the Company will allow promptly determining the development potential of gas methods and selecting priority production facilities for further detailed development.

    *-MUN – methods of increasing returns

    Reference:

    Tyumen Oil Research Center LLC (TNNC) is one of the largest regional centers in the field of geology and development of oil, gas condensate and gas fields. The center’s main activities are core and reservoir fluid studies, processing and interpretation of seismic exploration data, petrophysical and geological modeling, reserve management, design and monitoring of field development, well drilling support, and implementation of innovative projects.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft December 21, 2022

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.rosneft.ru/press/nevs/item/212959/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: RN-Uvatneftegaz completed research of endangered birds in Uvatsky District

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The company RN-Uvatneftegaz, which is part of the oil production complex of Rosneft, summed up the results of the implementation of a grant project to preserve the biodiversity of the Tyumen region. As part of the project, specialists studied the state of populations of rare and protected bird species listed in the Red Books of the Tyumen region and Russia.

    Caring for the environment is an integral part of the corporate culture and one of the key principles of Rosneft’s activities. The company has been a member of the UN Global Compact for over 10 years, confirming its commitment to the 17 UN goals in the field of sustainable development.

    Scientists from Tyumen State University conducted research and field work within the Irtysh River valley on an area of about 9 thousand square kilometers. At the first stage of the research, ornithologists collected and analyzed data on rare and protected bird species, and at the second and third stages, they conducted field work to assess the quantitative state of the populations.

    Primary field data were collected using the route method, birds were photographed using long-focus optics, voices were digitally recorded to determine species, and sound stimulation was used. Similar studies have not been conducted in the area since the end of the last century.

    During the expedition, scientists discovered representatives of 70 bird species belonging to 10 orders, including 11 rare and protected species. Among them are the white-tailed eagle, the great curlew, the mute swan, the osprey and others.

    Ornithologists analyzed the main limiting factors of life activity for rare and endangered species, and gave recommendations for optimizing nature management, habitats and nesting sites in the study area.

    Scientists have also developed a list of measures to reduce the negative impact on populations of rare bird species, including limiting industrial work during the nesting season (May-June), carrying out biotechnical measures to create artificial nests, fluttering grounds and gravel beds, protecting forests from wildfires, regulating the number of birds of prey, and environmental education of the population.

    Rosneft is implementing a number of programs to study and preserve flora and fauna in the regions where it operates. More than 20 projects to study rare animals, birds and fish, as well as to preserve the national culture of indigenous peoples, have been developed since 2014.

    Reference:

    RN-Uvatneftegaz is engaged in exploration and development of a group of fields located in Western Siberia in the Uvatsky District of the Tyumen Region. The Uvatsky project includes 19 licensed areas with a total area of over 25 thousand km2.

    RN-Uvatneftegaz is one of the largest taxpayers in the Tyumen region. Under the current agreement between Rosneft and the region, the company actively supports regional social programs and promotes the development of the Uvatsky district.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft December 20, 2022

    Keywords: Ecological news 2022

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.rosneft.ru/press/nevs/item/212915/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Rosneft enterprises awarded the highest prize of the “100 Best Products of Russia” competition

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    In 2022, the highest award “Quality Leader” of the “100 Best Products of Russia” Program competition in the nomination “Products for industrial and technical purposes” was awarded to three enterprises. Two of them – Saratov Oil Refinery and Angarsk Polymer Plant – are part of Rosneft Oil Company.

    The “Quality Leader” prize is awarded to a manufacturer that consistently produces high-quality and safe products for consumers or provides high-quality and safe services.

    The products of the Company’s enterprises were also awarded high prizes: the ecological class K5 motor gasoline of the AI-95-K5 “Euro 6” brand produced by the Saratov Oil Refinery was recognized as a laureate of the competition and awarded the honorary diploma “Golden Hundred”. The gold badge and the title of laureate were received by foamed polystyrene and high-pressure polyethylene produced by the Angarsk Polymer Plant. Technical ethylbenzene and petroleum benzene will be marked with a silver logo.

    Ensuring the highest quality standards for manufactured products is the Company’s top priority. In 2018, Rosneft was the first in Russia to start producing Euro 6 gasoline with improved environmental characteristics. Euro 6 motor gasoline contains less sulfur, benzene and aromatic hydrocarbons, which helps reduce corrosion activity and leads to a decrease in the toxicity of exhaust gases.

    The commercial output of the Angarsk Polymer Plant serves as the basis for the production of a wide range of products at Russian enterprises. Technical ethylbenzene is used to produce styrene and is used in organic synthesis. Petroleum benzene is used to obtain synthetic rubbers, plastics, synthetic fibers, dyes, surface-active substances (SAS) and medicinal substances. Expandable polystyrene is used to manufacture heat and sound insulation boards, car components, various types of packaging and building materials. High-density polyethylene serves as the basis for the production of various types of film, and is used in electrical insulation and chemical production.

    Reference:

    Saratov Oil Refinery is the main producer of petroleum products in the Saratov Region. The range of products includes motor gasolines, including Euro 6 gasoline with improved environmental and operational characteristics, diesel fuel, road and roofing bitumen, marine fuel, technical sulfur and other petroleum products. Saratov Oil Refinery is a laureate of the Russian Federation Government Prize in the field of quality.

    JSC “AZP” is one of the largest industrial enterprises of the Russian Federation in the field of petrochemistry. The production capacities of the enterprise include installations for the production of high-pressure polyethylene, ethylbenzene, styrene, polystyrene, foaming benzene, purified pyrocondensate and ethylene evaporation, fraction of liquid pyrolysis products. The total production volume of the enterprise is more than 730 thousand tons per year. The accumulated processing volume of the Angarsk Polymer Plant is 25 million tons of raw materials.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft December 20, 2022

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.rosneft.ru/press/nevs/item/212913/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Rosneft Ski Track was held in four Russian cities

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Rosneft organized mass ski races in four cities of presence – Angarsk, Krasnoyarsk, Nefteyugansk and Ufa. More than 1800 people took part in the Rosneft Ski Race – employees of the Company’s enterprises and their family members.

    Support for mass sports is one of the key areas of social work of Rosneft Oil Company and its subsidiaries.

    The cross-country skiers competed in distances from 500 m to 10 km in six age categories. The youngest skier was only 3 years old, and the oldest athlete was 82 years old.

    The competitions were organized at a high level – with professional judging, medical care, awarding of winners and prize winners in all disciplines. Ski preparation areas, heated changing rooms and rest areas were also equipped. A cultural program and a children’s corner were provided for young skiers.

    The most massive corporate competitions are the Summer and Winter Sports Games, in which more than 20 thousand employees of the Company participate. “Rosneft Ski Track”, which was held for the first time, will become an annual event and will expand the geography of participants.

    Rosneft carries out large-scale work to promote sports and a healthy lifestyle among both its own employees and the population in the regions where the Company operates. Ice arenas, sports complexes and multifunctional sports grounds are built in the regions using funds from Rosneft and its subsidiaries. The Company provides support to amateur and professional sports.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft December 27, 2022

    Keywords: Social News 2022

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.rosneft.ru/press/nevs/item/213007/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: With the support of Rosneft, the photo exhibition “Attraction of the Arctic” opened

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The annual photo exhibition “Attraction of the Arctic” opened on Tverskoy Boulevard in Moscow. The photo exhibition was organized by Rosneft Oil Company together with the non-governmental development institute “Innopraktika”.

    The exhibition includes unique shots from the atlas “Russian Arctic. Space. Time. Resources” (a joint project of Rosneft and Innopraktika), photographs from Rosneft research expeditions and pictures of the Company’s facilities. Residents and guests of the capital will be able to see icy landscapes, large-scale polar research, the unique beauty of the Arctic and its amazing inhabitants, many of which are listed in the Red Book. The exhibition is open to everyone until January 30.

    Rosneft is implementing a comprehensive scientific research program in the Arctic region. Since 2012, the company has conducted more than 30 expeditions in five Arctic seas and collected a unique layer of information about this region. Geological, oceanographic, hydrometeorological and environmental research is carried out in cooperation with the country’s leading scientific institutes.

    In the fall of 2020, during a research expedition, the first stratigraphic drilling of wells in the Kara Sea in the history of continental shelf studies was carried out. In 2021 and 2022, Rosneft continued research in the waters of the Laptev Sea and the Chukchi Sea. The extracted core is being studied by specialists from Innopraktika at the Geological Faculty of Lomonosov Moscow State University. These studies are of great importance for understanding the geological structure of the Russian Arctic. In 2022, the stratigraphic drilling project was awarded a diploma as a laureate of the International Competition of Scientific, Scientific-Technical and Innovative Developments Aimed at the Development and Development of the Continental Shelf.

    Rosneft and the Russian Arctic National Park jointly implemented the Clean Arctic project to study the impact of economic activity during the Soviet era on Arctic ecosystems. This was the first time such a program was implemented in Russia.

    The results of many years of work on studying the Russian North are presented in the ecological atlases “Kara Sea”, “Laptev Sea”, “Marine Mammals of the Russian Arctic and Far East”, “Barents Sea”, “Species – Biological Indicators of the State of Marine Arctic Ecosystems”. This year, together with “Innopraktika”, the Company published the book “Rediscovering the Arctic”, dedicated to the results of expeditions and scientific research of the Arctic zone over 10 years.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft December 28, 2022

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.rosneft.ru/press/nevs/item/213015/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Bashneft Reduces Carbon Footprint in Bashkortostan

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Bashneft (part of Rosneft) has begun ground monitoring of methane emissions at the company’s production facilities using modern high-precision equipment. The company’s specialists have taken measurements using ground monitoring equipment at 29 industrial sites, thanks to which the carbon footprint at these facilities has been minimized.

    Progressive movement towards carbon neutrality is one of the important vectors of development of Rosneft Oil Company. The company aims to achieve leadership positions in the field of minimizing the impact of its production assets on the environment.

    The implementation of the Company’s promising project is being carried out in a key region for Bashneft by engineers from Bashneft-Dobycha LLC. A complex of high-tech equipment equipped with laser, ultrasonic and thermal imaging sensors allows specialists to identify and eliminate unregulated sources of greenhouse gas emissions at production facilities.

    The start of ground monitoring of methane emissions was a logical addition to the aerial monitoring that Bashkir oil workers began in 2021. Then, using domestic unmanned aerial vehicles equipped with laser gas analyzers, high-resolution photo and video cameras, 26 industrial facilities of the enterprise were surveyed. This year, ground and aerial monitoring has already been carried out at 56 facilities, including oil and gas treatment units of Bashneft-Dobycha LLC.

    Taking into account the experience and results obtained, Bashkir oil workers have developed an optimal program for monitoring methane emission sources, in accordance with which it is planned to study all the enterprise’s site facilities in 2023.

    Since 2019, Rosneft has been systematically implementing a comprehensive program to monitor and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The expansion of this program, as well as the use of unmanned aerial vehicles, laser and thermal imaging scanning devices, and ultrasonic detectors help minimize the impact on the environment.

    Reference:

    Bashneft-Dobycha LLC is the key production asset of Bashneft Oil Company. It implements investment gas program measures aimed at reducing the impact of oil production on the environment and achieving a level of 95% rational use of associated petroleum gas.

    The implementation of the gas program allowed the enterprise to ensure 96% rational use of associated petroleum gas.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft December 27, 2022

    Keywords: Ecological news 2022

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.rosneft.ru/press/nevs/item/213005/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Rosneft Conducts Field Research of the Northern Forest Deer Population in the Tyumen Region

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    As part of the Rosneft program for biodiversity conservation, the first summer field studies of the reindeer population in the Tyumen region have been completed. The forest subspecies of the animal is under threat of extinction and is listed in the Red Book of the region.

    In 2022, RN-Uvatneftegaz, which is part of the Rosneft oil and gas production complex, together with the Tobolsk Complex Research Station of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, began implementing a long-term program to study and preserve the population of northern forest deer in the Uvatsky District of the Tyumen Region.

    The first field studies and their interpretation were conducted from May to October on an area of more than 62 thousand hectares (including within the license areas of RN-Uvatneftegaz). Based on the analysis of about 22 thousand high-resolution digital aerial photographs taken using unmanned aerial vehicles, the first encouraging results were obtained – individual forest reindeer (8 adults and 2 young of the year) were identified, as well as their numerous trails. The data indicate that the animals not only migrate across the territory of the Uvatsky District, but also breed here.

    Scientists have proposed measures aimed at preserving and further increasing the number of forest reindeer in the studied area, and have outlined a plan of specific activities for 2023, including the organization of artificial salt licks, the installation of camera traps to obtain more complete information about their lifestyle and characteristics, and conducting a winter route census of animals. Work on studying new areas is also planned.

    RN-Uvatneftegaz plans to use the research results in the development of the Uvat project fields as part of a set of measures aimed at preserving the disappearing symbol of the Siberian taiga.

    The company intends to pay special attention to environmental education work among the region’s population. Thus, this year, with the support of RN-Uvatneftegaz, a book about specially protected natural areas of the Tyumen Region was published for the first time. It included information about 102 nature reserves and monuments that form the ecological basis of the region, as well as the endangered and rare species of birds and animals living there, including the northern forest deer.

    Environmental protection is an integral part of the corporate culture and one of the key principles of Rosneft. The company has been a member of the UN Global Compact for over 10 years, confirming its commitment to the 17 UN goals in the field of sustainable development. Rosneft, as part of its Strategy, implements a number of programs to study and preserve flora and fauna in the regions of its presence. Since 2014, more than 20 projects have been completed, including research into rare animals, birds and fish, as well as the preservation of the national culture of indigenous peoples.

    Reference:

    RN-Uvatneftegaz is engaged in exploration and development of a group of fields located in Western Siberia in the Uvatsky District of the Tyumen Region. The Uvatsky project includes 19 licensed areas with a total area of over 25 thousand km2. Under the current agreement between Rosneft and the region, the company actively supports regional social programs and promotes the development of the Uvatsky District.

    In 2022, RN-Uvatneftegaz implemented a grant project to study the fauna and population status of red-listed bird species within the Irtysh River valley (Uvatsky District, Tyumen Region). During the expedition, scientists discovered representatives of 70 bird species belonging to 10 orders, including 11 rare and protected species.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft December 23, 2022

    Keywords: Ecological news 2022

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.rosneft.ru/press/nevs/item/212985/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –